Yokohama

I went to Yokohama city today. Another beautiful and second largest city of Japan that I really love. It is not as crowded as Tokyo and with the bay by its side, the city is even more beautiful. I had a lunch appointment with my old bosses. They both used to work at the Nissan HQ in Ginza, Tokyo but recently been transferred to Yokohama’s branch. This was good as it gave me a reason to visit the beautiful city of Yokohama.

I left the house at 11:00 pm—the actually plan I had was to leave the house at 10:30 so that it would give me enough time to get enjoy the beautiful city. However I kind of overslept and left the house bit late. I was worried that it would take me more than to reach by destination, however, luck favored me as I managed to catch the express train and got to the exact location at 5 min before the hour.

Lunch was good. We went to an Italian restaurant. Even though I am in touch with them through an e-mail, I had not seen them for almost 3 years. Last time, both Prasanna and I were in Tokyo for only 4 days and I did not have chance to visit them then. It was nice seeing them after so long. We had some "Marketing" talk.Since the Japanese market has matured a bit; Nissan is now interested in developing new strategies in Asia. Who knows, I could be very well working in the Nissan Asian branch in near future. Working in Nissan has really been one of my best experiences. It helped me find my true interest in Global Marketing.

After the lunch, I enjoyed the view of “RAINBOW BRIDGE” and the glimmering cityscape that reflected on the water. This bridge is so heavenly beautiful at night. Strange enough, every time I listen to a Jazz music, this is the picture that pops into back of my mind. Not a single clue why…. ?? When I was working at Nissan, I had the chance to test drive the new Toyota model in this bridge and boy, it was fun!! I am still quite astonished by the fact that this bridge is two stories. Heavy trucks drive on the top and the regular car drive on the bottom lane

Is sum, I had a great day today. More flashback of my olden days :)

HAPPY NEW YEAR

HAPPY NEW YEAR !!! !

Osyogatsu Omedeto gozaimasu!!!!

Finally it is the new year… the new era!! ( Even the UN has a new Secretary General!! ) It is the year of 2007. This is the first blog of 2007. A new year brings the opportunity to have a little fun and try new things. It allows you to take a look back, laugh at all of last year’s silliness, refocus and start anew. Moreover, that’s exactly what I am doing here. Here are my tentative goals for the new year- I resolve to work smarter, hustle harder, be more focused and the list goes on….

Before I forget --- A Happy New Year to everyone!! I know.....a bit belated but still heartfelt.

The new year has started off well. Every new year’s eve, the Japanese movie and music industry has this big male Vs female singing concert-- unfortunately, the male won :( We usually watch this show as it is the main highlight of the night here in Japan. Similarly, this year, almost after 8 years, I was once again watching the show with my parents and welcomed the new year from home. Since the living room has the “room with a view”, we also enjoyed the fireworks from our balcony.

Now that the New year is gone, everything is back to normal now. All the offices are open. My dad had 6 days long holiday and his work started from today. After a long spoilt schedule, he had quite a difficult time getting up this morning. My brother who is dreading to go back to his school has no choice but to go from Monday and soon.. it will be time for me to leave as well.

I went to Shibuya with my brother today. Again, the crowded city gave me a quick flash back of my high school days. Weather wise, it is quite mild. It gets bit windy during the day but with the sun, it is not as bad. I am enjoying the beautiful sunny day in Japan.

Next week I am meeting my bosses from Nissan at Tokyo and Yokohama. I guess this is will be the other main highlights for next week..

Since this is my first blog of the year, I hope to share many good news with you!!

Akemashite Omedeto Gozaimasu!!!!

Execution

“Sadam did not get to see the dawn of Saturday morning,” – announced the BBC world precisely at 11:00 this morning. “He did not show any remorse or resistance prior to his execution”- the reporter describes in more detail. This news took me by complete surprise. Just in the morning I had read the bold headline in “Japan Times” “Saadam maybe be executed ‘within days’”….. but it did not say how soon…The news had also featured how Sadam’s Baath Party had threatened to retaliate if this ousted Iraqi leader was executed. Within few hours there was a BREAKING news of SADAM's Execution.

Sadam is executed. He deserves this for all the appalling crime he has committed. Now that the dictator is gone, there is one question lingering in everyone’s mind—Whether Iraq will step into the milestone by becoming democratic nation or will the country suffer even more. His hanging was filmed as proof of execution.— vvvery disturbing!! Even though, he was a bad person, watching him in front of gallows was very distasteful.

This will be an interesting event to remember at the end of this year. 2006 also holds a death of another powerful dictator, Alberto Pinochet. Another big year for the death of evil regime I suppose.

All is going well with me. I am enjoying the holidays with my parents and my brother. My little brother has become so tall—He is only 13 and he has grown so tall—taller than me and his voice is slowly cracking… He has become more cuter.

The weather is Tokyo is cold—but at least there is sunshine. It feels nice soaking up in the afternoon sun. It reminds me so much of Nepal. We have the Indian Channel at home and I along with my mum sort of have become addicted to the TV series. The sun and the Indian TV reminds me of the winter holidays back home.

One more day and it is the New Year. The biggest highlight in Japan this year is the birth of the new crown prince—the heir to the royal dynasty.

Soon it will be 2007— the new year which hopefully will bring peace and prosperity in everyone’s life. I pray for peace in Earth and peace back home.

Oh! Yes—I will get to welcome the New Year with Mt. Fuji. Hopefully, Fuji san will be bring me lots of luck this year.

The land of rising sun

Procrastination indeed is an art… which can be interpreted in any ways you want to.
For me, last few days have been mixture of both procrastination and jet lag.
I got in Tokyo late Friday night. The journey was simply too long.

My trip to Seattle was fun…except the RAIN!! It rained all the time. The place reminded my so much of Liverpool…. Dark and gloomy and rainnnnn. My cousin had planned to take me hiking to Mt. Rainer; unfortunately the frozen rain did not permit us to do so. Despite the crazy schedules of my cousins who are both doctors, I did manage to get a quick overview of the downtown Seattle and was amazed by the number of Starbucks café the city had. Starbucks has really has diffused the city!!

After two days in Seattle, I was off to Japan. To recollect the journey, I watched two movies and read 1/3 of the book by Suketu Mehta. People who have read this book have told me that it really feels like being a part of the busy and crowded Bombay and really, how true was that. I have never been to Bombay but I really feel I have visited part of Jogeswari slums. It is very unique and interesting book indeed.

As I stepped out from Narita and climbed in the bus, I saw the lights of the busy streets of the Tokyo as I had seen a year…. or I should say years ago. A memory explosion, an instant bridge between the precise moment and this one. As I walked around the city, I step on little pockets of memory treasure… the treasures of my high school days burst open and waft open its scents.. Such an amazing power it has.

The next morning, I got woken up by my excited parents. My parents recently moved to a new apartment. The new apartment is in the 8th floor and you can actually enjoy the beautiful view of Fuji san…. Mt. Fuji from our living window. The view is simply breath taking. My brother has also bought a binocular to watch Fuji san every morning.

I am still jet lagged. I wake up early in the morning and then go back to sleep again later in the morning. Yesterday, I watched the movie called OMKARA. Interesting movie…. modification of Shakespeare’s Othello. This is probably the 4th movie that I have seen based on Othello. The first one I have watched was in 1998. I had to read the book during my summer break of junior high school. Then we watched the movie Othello with Kenneth Branagh and Lauren Fishburne in our English class. Then in my sophomore year of college I watched “O” with Omar Epps and now the Hindi version.

It is around 9 in the evening and slowly I am feeling drowsy and sleepy and it is time for me to stop. We are still waiting for the broadband connection. The dial up is too slow. This might be my last blog of 2006. :)

Finally it is over!

Procrastination is a fine art, however, this time, it is not the reason for the absence blog.Even though school was over, I still needed to do some last minute things… paper, write ups and all.. Now everything, I mean everything is done for me. I am relieved. Well not relieved per se.. cause I still do not know my grades, but I am comforted by the fact that I do not need to go to the library. Such a nice feeling it is.

This weekend was nice. We had a brunch at Shailendra dai’s place. Yup! The same great menu- waffle, eggs and hash browns. Since Snajay, the Waffle man was not there, both Pras and I made the waffle which turned out to be GREAT. I also did little bit of cooking that day—actually; I did a whole lot of cooking for Mr. D that afternoon.

Sunday was a Raag day. Prasanna sang Raag Durga with a mixture of Bilambit Jhaptaal and Tin Taal. It was so soothing and so beautiful. I really have become a fan of Raag. It really gives you a peace of mind which is a must in your stressful schedule.There were also little boys performing that day. They must have been probably 5 or 6 years old and they were playing tabla-- the view was soo adorable. I could not help smiling looking at them perform their piece. It was amazing!!

Click here to see Raag Durga in Bilambit Jhap Taal Part I :- (Prasanna’s Raag )

Click here to see Raag Durga in Bilambit Jhap Taal Part II :- (Prasanna's Raag)

Click here to see Raag Durga in Tin Taal :- (Prasanna’s Raag)

Now, I am doing packing. It is not even half way done-------- I would be stressed, but I can't be bothered. I am off to Seattle tomorrow. I have an early flight. I will be staying with my cousin and her husband who I have not seen for almost 2 and half years. I am excited. Then on Thursday, I am off to Tokyo. I'm really looking forward to it. Both Prasanna and I, we were in Tokyo last summer, almost a year and a half ago. It was a short 5 days visit. This is the first long trip visiting my parents since I have been married.

My parents also moved into a new apartment last week. Another thing to look forward to. The only thing I am sad about is leaving Prasanna. Since the past few trips has always been with Mr. D, this was one is going to be boring and sad without him. I am already worried about who I am going to be sitting next to in the plane. I hate traveling aloneeee.

The other day, I went to the library and have checkedout couple of books to read. My list is too long and I managed to bring 5 ( not all of them from the list) books but I do not think that I am going to finish it all.

I am taking- Suketa Mehta’s –The maximum city, V.S. Naipaul’s Magic Seeds, Innovators Dilemma by Clayton Christensen and last but not the least--- Palpasa café by Mr. Narayan Wagle. This is going to be bit hard for me since everything is s in Nepali. The vocabulary is very confusing but I am very resolute to read it.

Almost over

Semester is almost over for me. My exams are done. I had my Accounting presentation--- I should add the "FINAL" presentation yesterday. It was on pricing project-- the one where I had interviewed Prasanna. It feels such a relief. I still need to do couple of last minute things before I call it off. Yup! I still need to work in the library to finish the final editing of the paper-- Tomorrow thankfully is going to be the LAST day.. I mean ABSOLUTELY last day for this semster. Even though I try not to, one way or another, I always end up going to the library.I some how get more attuned in the library-- I suppose because of the environment.It is the final week and everyone is studying...leaving you feeling guilty if you don't. I get more things done at the library as oppose to any other places. It works perfectly... no phone, no internet...and quiet!!!

After our accounting class which ended at 10:00 last night, we all went to the "6B" lounge in the downtown and everyone sort of celebrated the finishing of the semester by having champagne and wine.

It was a nice feeling. It was raining a little bit... the quiet rain and the mist that floats between worlds, that belongs to no one and nothing, that is the pause between one breath and the next.The humming of a Christmas song still lingers in my mind and no matter how cold it may be I always feel warm.

Reflective Journal

I have been doing the reflective Journal- my 15 page paper for International Business class for past couple of days. It is due tomorrow. This is sort of like a report -- or I should say company analysis of Nissan, the company I had worked during my Junior and Senior year of College. Nissan by far has been one of my best working experiences. The CEO Carlos Ghosn is really a true role model for this company.

I have lots to do, therefore,I shall stop it right here and bid Adieu for today!

Finals

I am in the midst of my Finals. School ended this week, however, since we have paper and group presentation, I still need to come to school. On top of that, I am behind my professor’s research. I really will not feel relief until the 14^th that is when everything will be DONE for me. Right now I am exhausted!

I have been in the library all day ( and I still am) - doing the accounting paper and trust me, it is very hard. It took me almost 8 hours to do all the questions and I still need to recuperate my energy to do the last few ones. My mind is tired and so is my body. I cannot wait for the school to be over.

Quickly I am going to recapitulate my weekend:

Saturday, after working on my paper for practically all day, we went to Mabi dai’s place for dinner. It was sort of a like a re-union dinner for us as we got to chitchat and re-connect with our old friends. It was really nice seeing Sworupa di, Somps dai and Sebs dijju. Lately, because of the school, I kind of have disconnected from the outside world as most of the time is spend buried with the book. It is not an excuse whatsoever, nevertheless, I still find hard to find time to do other stuff. I have wanted to go see “Casino Royale” for a long time… and still have not had the chance. I really hope I get to see the movie before it is out from the theatre.

Sunday was a good day for me .We went for a “MIMOSA BRUNCH” hosted by Omar and Christine, both my class mates from MBA. Omar lives in Northend and has a roof deck. Despite the chilly weather, it was a nice Sunday morning International brunch with all my friends. Meeting people invariably brings joy to me and I also learnt one new word that day, Mimosa- which means Orange juice and Champagne. That night we had the Yadav brothers over at our place for dinner. It is always so great to have their company.

On Tuesday, I found Christine’s long lost accounting book buried in one of the library shelves. I was doing some book research for my professor. She was happy—and told me I would have a good karma. Let’s see what my Karma holds and what it will bring. Professor Behnam's class got cancelled and we could not do our presentation... both good and bad. Since we had all worked so hard, it would have been since to get some extra points, good-- we all got the full points for that portion of the grade. I guess this was the so called Good karma for me.

Tuesday was one heck a day for me and I also missed the Victoria Secret fashion show which I was so much looking forward to watching it. sometimes, life takes a big plunge and you really not know what to expect.

This world is an aching void of need. I would disappear without so much as a ripple on the surface of that inky black nothingness, and there would be nothing left behind to mark my passing. Sometimeds, I just wish..

Brutal Cough

My shoulders and neck ache, tension and strain over the ache of overuse.I don't even have the energy to record the litany of my problems... Cough and more Cough………It's almost over. Soon it will be over. It's almost over.

It has been almost a week and the vicious cough has not abandoned me. I suspect, it the my own recklessness ( need not to be mentioned here ;) for having taken to this stage-- Regardless of what I say now.—the cough is bothering me a little more too much.

I feel frail but I am still surviving. I need to survive. If I succumb, then I am doomed. -- Next couple of few days are very (let me re-emphasis the VERY part :))-- very crucial to me. The main reason being – the Finals!

Update Aside, This week has been relatively a hectic one. And on top of that recuperating after the long break makes it even worse. And the piled up case studies and presentation does not make it any better.

One down two more to go -- :)

I had my Organizational Behavior presentation on Monday!

A very important noteworthy fact is that: we were the brave group to volunteer to present it right after the break.

Our title was “Corporate Social Responsibility"—

What does "Corporate social responsibility" mean in terms of a media organization? How would you measure it, and why does it matter?

We chose three companies :-

1. Starbucks

2. Body Shop

3. Unilever

I also had a chance to share my personal experience of The BODY Shop international with my fellow class mates—which I very very happy about.

Some say it is the way to create an image in front of public. Some say, it is a genuine effort. Because, I have seen my family getting involved with the Body shop International, I agree with the latter part.

My dad and my uncles back home own a paper factory “The Get Paper Industry.” (Yup! I come from a business background.) Majority of the exporting is done with the Body shop International in the UK. One of the main highlights of the company is fulfilling the Fair Trade Guidelines and Code of Conduct of The Body Shop International social and environmental responsibilities. 40% Of the Revenue is dedicated to the Non Profit sister organization GWP (General Welfare Pratisthan) where the money is spend for AIDS Awareness Activities, opening schools, girls education and environmental activities. The CEO of the body Shop, Dame Anita Roddick who is an activist, an entreprenuer, author -- a truly amazing person!!! herself has visited the factory in Basbari.

The company was opened in 1989. Since then, each and every family member has played a critical role in taking the company where it is today. I am very proud to say to say that the company has been the recipient of “Exporter of the YEAR” in 2001/2 and 2003. A load of credit definitely goes to the uncles for this great job. The factory is located in Bansbari and Hattiban and has total of 200 employees.

It is December tomorrow. It will be a one year anniversary for this blog. As I had mentioned in my previously, my blog has expanded its sphere, albeit in a slow pace which I am still VERY proud of.

The temperature today was unbelievable-- high 40s. I guess with all the Gobal Warning going on, this is very much inevitable.

It really does not feel like Winter.—which of course, carries bit of a good and bad news.

Winter is emptiness, a silence that is not to be broken. The ground is frozen, sealed; the world sleeps WHILE Summer is a wild heat, an explosion of growth.

On a side note, my professor has let me borrow one of his books. It is called “ The innovator’s Dilemma”—when new technologies cause great firms to fail. It is by Clayton Christensen. Since I am working with my professor on a design aspect, I think it makes very much sense for me to take a grasp of Mr. Christensen’s ideas.

I like to read--- I am a ridiculously complex person and I take great delights in ridiculously complex things.I appreciate consistency, but dwelling in contradiction is lot more interesting.

Thanks giving break

I have not been writing for a while. Truthfully speaking, I really did not have anything to reflect upon. Suffice to say, it may be less 'out on a cloud' intellectual, and more focused random snippets. Well, I suppose I shouldn't foreshadow or predetermine the line of my blogging.

In keeping with the introspective nature of this past week's blogs....here it goes AGAIN!!

I just finished reading the Virgin Mobile case. It deals with the whole "pricing strategy." My head is hurting mildly-- good excuse for me to take a quick break!

To recapitulate my past few days---- Thanks giving break was basically a resting time for me. Sipping tea and witnessing the serendipity brought at my bedroom by newspapers and TV is how I have been spending this break. I came to the realization that this body of mine needed its own time to rest, without the binding demands of the external factors as I am going through right now.

Each winter I think I get little better- in terms of flue and cold and I reluctantly succumb. I got sick … ….Well not sick per-se but I caught cold and the cough was unbearable. I was already feeling sick from last week and on Wednesday it got even worst. I was bed ridden for almost all day.

Despite not feeling good, we both did manage to go to the “Bistas” residence for Thanksgiving dinner and enjoyed the Turkey. For brunch, we had gone to the “Yadavs” residence and again had the liberty of enjoying the delicious waffle, hash brown and omelet made by Shailendra Dai and Sanjay. We both really enjoy going to their place. :)

I am still rejuvenating by the fact that my Marketing presenation is finished. It has really been one of the biggest reliefs.

Interviewing Prasanna – It is not very often (not often at all! I must add) that you get to interview your own husband. Along with my 5 other MBA friends, I had the honor of interviewing the VP of Business Development last Wednesday. This is for my Accounting pricing project’s presentation next week. We all decided to meet at the lounge of Marriott hotel at Kendal Square. The interview lasted for about an hour. I could not help but simply smile looking at him. I was interviewing my husband.I had never seen the professional side of him-- so eloquent and so dashing of course! I was happy.

The coughing is back again. It just sits and indeed is misabused by too much tension throughout the day.

Winter is here. Slowly, the endless snow will start to accumulate and get dirty.

Time : It stretches; it's not static. When you feel caught up 'in the moment', a few minutes can last a lifetime. When you feel crunched, even 30 min is not enough.

I have a half formed thoughts--- before I go off tangent by writing banal thoughts…I better say Adieu.

Presentation fiasco

I am on a personal best high. Sometimes, you get up in the morning and you are just so happy. It was like that this morning— not for any particular reason. I was just happy and relieved. I finished my Marketing Presentation yesterday. Such a huge relief. Our presentation was an “Industry Audit” for an Airline Industry. It was an interesting research about the overall Industry airline. Most important fact of course was how all the major US Airlines have all filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcies. The recent big news of US Airways possibly acquiring Delta is making a headline everywhere. If the deal goes through, and If US Airways buy Delta before it comes out of the bankruptcies, then it will be saving almost $1.6 billion. But for now, we will just have to wait and see what happens.

Kellie, Dan and I --we had been working on for so long and to have it finally over is really a biggest relief. Now, I only have two presentations left. One for Accounting and the other one for Organizational behavior.

As for the weekend—it was one of the busiest ones for me. I was buried in my books and research all Saturday and Sunday. Sunday, I had the group meeting at the library at 1:00 and I returned back home at 8:00 in the evening. It was a long or I should emphasize longesttttt one. On top of that, I was not feeling well on Sunday. I think it is the cold. I had been feeling kind of weak all day, however, I had no choice but to drag myself and go to the meeting. With the help of centrums, Tylenol and orange of course, I forced myself to gather the strength. I was so scared that I was going to be sick on Monday—my presentation day. Luckily, I did not succumb, I survived.

Saturday – We had a brunch with Sujeev dai and Shailendra dai at this nice place called "SoundBites”.Prasanna was saying that it reminded him of Seinfeld’s “Soup Nazi show.” We also went to Chalphal talk that evening. It was GREAT listening to Sujjeev dai. His ideas and his plans were simply amazing. Had I had more time, I would have definitely stayed longer but had to go because of the presentation.

I am feeling little frail right now… basically my throat hurts. But—I know I will have a good rest during the thanks giving break.

I added my picture in the blog. Sometimes, even this blog page needs little bit of a modification. It is, after all MY BLog ( a page encompassing all the important facets of my life) and I also wanted to show little bit of my creative side. It's fun & perky. Like a new haircut. :)

It will be a One year in about 2 weeks since I have started writing this blog. I still remember that day---- I was in the library—cold winter of course! and my head buried in GMAT book.

Surprisingly, I have lasted this long---a year. Honestly speaking, I feel that I gradually have adopted the habit of writing a blog. I used to write a diary back in the school days and then I stopped for a while. Then I was back to the writing mode in my college days and now finally after 2 years, I have been accustomed to this habit which I am very proud of. :)

I just finished reading Kite Runner----It is one of the best books I have ever read. It keeps you interested throughout and is fantastic.

Kite Runner is set in Afghanistan during the Russian invasion (this will sound bizzare but I didn’t know Russia invaded until I read this book! Seriously!) and the years following in which the Taliban reigned. It follows the life of Amir and his servant/friend Hassan. Best friends from the beginning, theirs is a friendship saddened by discrimination and betrayal. Hassan would do anything for his friend and it is this leads to there eventual separation. Through out the book Amir is haunted by his past. Through out the story he searches how to right the wrongs he and others committed against his friend. Kite Runner reveals and hidden world that is fragile, beautiful and recovering from a tumultuous history.

Recently, I have started to notice that I have become fond of reading books by foreign authors. I am also talking about Jhumpa Lahiri-- she gave me a whole new different perspectives of many different aspects of life. And in this case, Khalid Hosini, the Afghan author—gave me another one for the Afghani world- -which, otherwise I might have been total ignorant of.

As you can probably tell from my writing,I am at the library—the random snippets jumping from here to there in no particular order). Whenever I feel like taking a break from the studies—I continue with my blog.

I just attended a “Make a Fair trade” from “Oxfam.” If time permits, this is one of the other organizations that I really want to get involved into.

Right now, I am sporadically reading the case studies for my Global marketing class.The case is about “Lucent technologies: Global Supply chain management.” I also have the do the Virgin Airline cases and the Reflective journal—the homework load just does not stop coming.

I forgot one more interesting thing—I attended the Bloomberg Crash course last week. That thing is simply AMAZING!! I learned that the acronyms of the stock market are referred as “Tickers”.

The talk

I have been in the meeting from the early morning—For the Organizational Behavior presentation on Monday. I will feel a huge relief once I get done for my presentation on Monday.

Everyone said it rained quite heavily last night. Honestly speaking, I do not have the slightest clue. I had a long day and was very tired. I dozed off right after I went to bed—which was almost around 12:30.

So far the best weather was on Wednesday. High 60s I think. I had to attend the talk by Dr. Yoram Puri.Since the location was not far from school,I decided on talking a quick stroll around the busy downtown. The weather was simply marvellous. To my surprise,I was the odd one out walking around the city in my long coat.

Dr. Yoram Peri had also been appointed as the advisor for Yitzak Rabin’s period. It is always interesting to hear the first hand experience on these "on- going" conflicts. In relation to Nepal, I was kind of surprised to hear how instrumental the military was in the entire peace process in Israel. Dr. Peri emphasizes on the fact that Military were used by the politicians to strengthen their position. – To me, this is indeed a very interesting perspective.

Another interesting point he added which was quite appalling was when he mentioned, “War would have stopped, but the military did not want to. If there was a strong “ civil lain intuition,” then the war in Israel would have stopped. The view was just top myopic.”

Additionally, he added that fact how Israel after deciding to withdraw the troops from Lebanon unilaterally got attacked by the Hezbollah. He emphasized, that Israel thinks that they should not have withdraw from Gaza and Lebanon. “In near future, if we withdraw, we will get attacked.”

I think the talk was very interesting. Last month I had attended the “Jerusalem Women Speak” talk. In that talk one of the women had mentioned how in Israel, many thousands of eighteen years old are resisting conscription into a military because they do not see them being as a defense force. However, Dr. Peri, depicted Military as on of the heroic symbols in Israel. Truthfully speaking- I am confused.

I am not very knowledgeable in this topic but from the two talks that I have attended, I have just been more confused. Why is there so much involvement between the militants and the political leaders? I think Israel’s fundamental security posture will not improve until the pattern of relations between its generals and political leaders is dramatically altered and a better decision-making mechanism in national security matters is established.

After the talk, like usual, I managed to have a quick chat with Dr. Peri and of course! Shook my hand. The place was quite packed with Professors and representatives from the various consulates.

Not that I like to eavesdrop, J but one conversation really caught my attention. This old gentlemen patted on the back of a another one and gleefully said, “Your great grand father was a great president,”

“He was an idiot” – was the other gentlemen’s firm reply.

I could not help but think who that person was.

He definitely looked Middle Eastern—Israeli to be exact. Who am I to be so sure of that person’s nationality? He could have been very well from Turkey, or Palestine.. Anyways, during that event—that was one question that was running in my find and unfortunately, he left before the event ended. Nope, I did not have the chance to talk with me. The question still ponders in my mind.

On an interesting note, I met a wonderful lady, Dr. Kinchuk, director of the Humphrey Fellow Program from the BU University. She was from St.Petersburg (Leningrad), Russia-- The same place my dad got his undergraduate from. I always get excited to meet with people from around the world and if I could to relate to them I get more thrilled.

It was really nice meeting with her. I am very thankful for her as she helped to book the room for the Chalpohal talk tomorrow.

I am at the library- -trying to do the work for my professor. The internet is just too slow.

I have whole weekend booked for the Marketing presentation on Monday

snippets

Boston is cold again. The air is so cold - you can feel it like a wall when you step outside the front door. Yesterday was really nice. Sunny and high 50s I think. Today… rain and more rain.

Both Prasanna and I, we needed a BREEEaaaak. It had been a longgg week for both of us.On Sunday, despite the crazy weather, we still decided to go for a quick spin. We were listening to the Jazz cd that Shailendra dai had made me last week. The sound was so mesmersing that we cared less about the Havoc outside. We kept driving and ended up going all the way to the JFK library. Neither of us had gone to this library, so we both thoroughly enjoyed every bit of that trip. I have been to the one is Dallas, where the president was shot; however, it was not anything close to the one we went on Saturday.The museum was really nice. We also managed to watch a quick documentary on the “Cuban Missile Crisis” during Kennedy’s Era.

In sum, this weekend was bit relaxing as compared to the other ones --- mainly becuase I had handed my Accounting midterm. I have two huge presentations coming up next week so this week so far has already been CRAZYY BUSY. Since both of us are so busy with work and school, I decided to take a break and decided to make 4 dishes last weekend--- which hopefully will last for at least 3 days. ( It is the second day and we still have some so far :)

Lately I have been captivated with “The kite runner.” I always read this on the way to school and back home, however, the story has become too addictive and I cannot seem to stop reading it. It has become a daily part of my routine I wonder what I am going to do once I finish it. I have been enjoying the book so much that I do not want to get off the train. I want to go on and on... The book is really very touching. It depicts an epitome of struggle. Struggle of Amir, the rich kid. Only after reading the book, I have realized how much similarity there is between Nepali – or I should say Hindi and Afghani. Some of the words like Zindgai , khushi, mehaman, bakshish - Some how reading this book has made me real familiar with the Afghani world.

I think this will a good movie if they ever decide to direct it.

Last week was a good week. I attended two networking event. I had a chance to talk and shake hands ( I try to put lot of emphasis on the shaking hand part as you might have noticed) with Mr. Arthur Frey, the inventor of Post it. His story was really inspiring. Really, talking with people like this makes you realize the essential of being a failure. I would say Failure is GOOD! You will stop and reflect back and become stronger. I say life could be mundane if you do not have challenges in front of you. IF you fail, you will struggle and try to do your best the second or the third time.

Art Fry’s story was one like that. Prior to inventing the final product of “Post –it” he had failed several times--- and look where his product is now.

Thursday morning, I attended another event called “Innovation and Design.” This was organized by my professor—the professor I work for. Very interesting event of course. They had a panel discussion with a professionals from five different backgrounds- -who all shared similarity about the topic of Design and Innovation. Working with my professor, I have come to realize the importance of Design factor in any successful companies. I agree that by delivering the best design, you can clearly appeal to the market. Even though this was one of the morning events—yup! 7:30 am one—I am so glad that I went to attend.

I am the midst of reading the case, “ IKEA Invades America.” Interesting case. I have class in about an hour—and honestly speaking I am already quite drained.

Tomorrow, I am planning to attend the talk by Yoram Peri, Former Political Advisor to Yitzhak Rabin. I am always excited to meet with these leaders. Their talks always inspire me. Oopsss--- I think it is about time for me to head to my class. Au Revior mon amie.

midterm

I am done with my Accounting mid-term. Ah! What a relief. Now, I have two more presentation lined up and finally, I can take some break before the Final. I am taking a break from my studies. The weather outside is awfully gloomy and the rain makes it even worse. Prasanna’s got fever. He is sleeping. It is a flue season and I am trying my best not to let them attack me.

Good news back home. There has been a mutual agreement with the Maoist and the Government. We have hope. I see light at the end of the tunnel. I am very optimistic about the peace process in Nepal. When my parents went Nepal 2 weeks back, they really had to hard time finding the ticket right away because everything was sold out. This is a good sign. It seems to me that Tourists Industry have been revamped again. It indeed is a time for felicitation.

Another interesting news—Sadam’s Final verdict on Sunday morning.

What was with the deal with judge’s remark though? “You were not a dictator. You were not a dictator, however, the people and surrounding around you created a dictator out of you.” Seriously, how could anyone say that the man charged with murdering ten of thousands of his compatriots was not a dictator? Either way this remark unleashed a storm of criticism.I am still pondering about this whole thing. This incident some how made me reflect back upon the Slovadan Milosevic trail. Treacherous leaders like these have pawned upon the life on very innocent civilians.

Boston Beer Company

On our Marketing class on Monday, we took a trip to the Boston Beer Company plant. Boston Beer Company manufactures the most famous SAM ADAMS beer. It was an interesting tour. I am much fond of wine, so honestly speaking; I did not have much of a zeal. The overall trip was interesting one I would say. The pungent smell of barley and yeast was what bothered me all the time.

Weekend was good.

I have officially entered the esteemed post quarter century club denoted by Mr. Prasanna. Saturday was bit relaxing. I did a little bit of studying and reading.

Sunday was GREAT!

The weather was great. (Suddenly, I have come to realize how much impact the weather has on our behavior ) Prasanna sang me one of my favorite songs from crossroads. Then we had the honour of having a brunch and dinner at the Yadav residence. Shailendra Dai and Sanjay made us a GREAT waffle brunch. For Dinner, we had the combination of great curry with little bit of wine accompanied by Great Jazz music. I had a great day.

J'aime J'adore. Il est tres magnificient. merci beaucoup ma mari :) Yup! I learned french for two years . I even had a tutor ( Son of famous poet Laxmi Prasad devkota) when I had gone home for summer in my junior year of my high school.

I need to get back to studying ----

I am interested in investigating questions of the mind, in my mind, and do I mind? Yes, I do. That is in fact why I am here.

Weekend

My Marketing midterm is over. Honestly speaking, I do not how it went. I had studied so much in a micro level and the exam was solely based from Macro point. Anyways, what is done is done. Reading 300 pages was very interesting. I was especially intrigued by some of the examples the book gave.

This advertisement from Accenture, the consulting firm really caught my eye. I am quite familiar with its name, however, it never clicked the fact that Accenture was a division of Arthur Anderson Consulting and completely detached itself from the Arthur Anderson's name after Enron incident.

The word "Accenture" is derived from "Accent on the future". In order to one again revive their brand image; the company has used the strategy of introducing Tiger hoods, to promote their company. In any field of endeavor, there is always a select group of competitors that rise to the top. What does it take to be one of them? Talent, of course. But talent alone is not enough to become and remain a high performer. After all, many have the talent to succeed but being a consistent high performer requires more: unerring focus, a relentless work ethic and a commitment to continually improve even at the height of success.

Brand Image is such an important thing in the corporate world. You really need to put a lot of work to pass the “Adaptation” phase, and if something happens and it gets ruined… then your company can be in a total jeopardy.

I was particularly drawn to this advertisement because of the message it was conveying. “To accomplish more, you need to see less.” This is a very critical point. The world associates Tiger with high performance. High performers like tiger focuses on “relentless consistency," which is probably only attainable if you have a concrete goal. In sum, to achieve something, you need to have a total focus on one thing. Only after you achieve this; you will need to take another step rather than focusing on everything in all direction. What I get out from this picture as a reader is that you need have a CORE GOAL to move forward. And Accenture has done a good job in demonstrating its tag line, "We know what it takes to be a Tiger." With this Acceture has sucessfully positioned itself as a high performance company.

Friday was good. Both Prasanna, Sanjay and I, we went to “Kathmandu Spice”, the newly opened Nepali restaurant. Food was good.

It is gloomy Saturday morning. Just had a long talk with everyone back home. Thanks to the new technology, everything has been so easy and convenient.I decided to make fresh croissants this morning. Fresh from the oven.The combination of Coffee, croissant and the scrambled eggs was superb!

The aroma still lingers in the living room.....

exams

I inadvertently seemed to have been missing days.The last one I wrote was on Monday. Not bad really--- I have been quite busy (and no this certainly is not an excuse). Currently,I am taking a break. Break from studying I would like to add. I have a marketing midterm tomorrow. 12 chapters- each consisting 30 pages. I have read 9 chapters so far and I am very much overwhelmed. Slowly Exam’s have taken a ubiquitous form. Week after week I am thrown with exams. Next week, I have Accounting.

I have been studying all day---Technically, I was supposed to work for my professor today. However, since my focal point for last couple of days have been this exam,I decided not to. I decide to give all my energy for the exam-- reading the longgg chapters of course! I have whole lot of pending work waiting for me. Next week is going to be fun.

Multiple choices. I hate multiple choices. The process of elimination always gives me this iffy feeling. As you might have guessed this, my marketing exam is solely going to be multiple choices along with 1 short answer.

While reading the chapters, I have come across the name Lafley quite a lot. Mr. A.J. Lafley is the CEO of Proctor and Gamble. It really feels good knowing that you have actually seen this person. Actually on my global marketing class last week, we made an emphasis on Porter’s theory. Today, while reading the chapters, I have come across Michael Porter's name several times. Knowing the fact that I have actually spoken with him makes me feel good . :)

This week on our Global marketing class, we had to do the analysis of Proctor and Gamble’s "SK II case." What is SKII ?

SKII is the leading prestige and high-end beauty brands by P & G. The case analysis was whether or not P & G should enter the Chinese and the UK market with this product.

SK II is an upscale product from Japan that is exclusively sold through selected Saks Fifth Avenue stores. The product is Fragrance free --- and it does not look anything like the upscale products, yet, one small bottle costs over $170.

The dilemma at the time of the case, 1997 was whether or not to enter the new market. The case was very interesting. The company did decide to take the risk and enter the Chinese market and they have successfully captured their targeted niche.

Doing business is all about taking a risk. Had P & G not captured the Chinese market, their competitors like L’Oreal, Chanel and Estee lauder’s would definitely have with their high end products. In the competitive world today, business is all about being an innovator and capturing the consumers mind. If you don’t do it, someone will. This is how the corporate business world works today! Seize the moment or else someone will------ now this makes me think back about the title for this blog. Carpe Diem-- SIEZE THE DAY!!!

The class was very interesting. This is one of my favorite classes. To tell you the truth, I really like case analysis. It is so much interesting then the professor’s lectures. Classes based on case analysis are more interactive and more energetic and that is what I like.

I am going to bit relieved after next week—after my Accounting midterm. My relief will be enormous. But may be not .....

To further my case ..... I still have 3 presentations to do before the end of the semester.

Weather is gloomy outside. The leaves have changed. It looks beautiful. I can sit and enjoy the view. Sadly, the situation does not permit me to. I better get back to my studying.

Back to school

I got up at 4:00 in the morning today.

I miss being the master of my own destiny-- with no official deeds to be done, no chores, no red diary tagged along with me to keep me track of my daily event.

I want just a peaceful and pleasant awakening.... A peaceful mornings.

Weekend!!

Weekend was just too short and most of it was spent studying. I had a case study write up due by Sunday evening. It was an interesting case about a company called "GOLFLOGIX." Golflogix makes a software called Xcaddie-- sort of like GPS navigator.This product helps the golfers to know the exact range of their golf balls, putters and also helps them improve their swings by giving strategies. So far, the company has been using the golf course as their number 1 selling media. Since the revenue stream has not been positvely high they are faced with a quagmire as to whether or not to directly sell their products directly to the customers. If they do decide to sell Xcaddie to the customers, they might jeopardize their relationship with the golf course.The executive board is in the midst of a dilema? What should they do?

Our write up was about our strategy -

If you were the CEO of the company what would you do? My decision, of course, had to be justified with a quantitative analysis. This was the question we had to keep in our mind while doing the write ups.

The whole of Sunday and half day Saturday was taken by this case study. Heaps of credit goes to Mr D for all the help! (Of course, I decided to go with both the customers and the golf course channel while selling the products) I have another mid-term this Friday. Last Friday was the Statistic exam and this week is the Marketing Analysis and next week is Accounting. Exams are rolling like anything.

What else--- Well, I suppose when you make a concerted effort to write every day in a blog, then it will have to by nature turn to something more personal:)

Soon it will start to get dark early. The day light saving has started.Winter is around the corner. Walking in the cold will be dreadful. I am rambling--- as you can see I have a half-formed thoughts.

On an interesting note, couple of months ago I had attended the talk show of Mr. Sharad Babu Shrestha from the READ foundation and just recently, I read about him in Kantipur about him being one of the recipients of Bill and Melinda Gates foundation. What a true honour for our country!! KUDOS for his hard work!!!

Eventful week

I feel really good right now. The reason – my Statistic class. I just finished my 3 hours long exam and I feel so relived. I don’t know how I did- but I am glad it is over. I try not to dwell on the past; therefore, I have not even taken one glance at my notes. What is done is done. I had studied quite a lot and I am hopeful for a good grade.

I also had another MBA 600 paper due today. After working for extra 3 hours last night I managed to finish that one as well. The two big burdens are now all gone. This explains my days silence— Even though I am contemplating on whether or not to write the blog, I thought about doing it anyways. I just finished my exam and I deserve better than sitting infornt of my laptop in the library right?? However, since I have not updated by blog for almost a week now, I thought about giving a quick update before disappearing in my school zone.

Among myriad of events that have taken place over the last few days, these two are worth noting.

First, the lecture series with Mr. Terry Lundgren, the chairman and the CEO of Federated Department Stores Inc., the parent company of Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. Yup! He is the big guy behind the acquisition of Filenes and other numerous stores. The exciting thing is that I actually got to shake hands with him. I really enjoyed this talk. Just couple of months ago, there was this big talk about Filene’s at Downtown getting closed and here I was shaking hands with the man who was doing all this. It is quite amazing isn’t it? Under his leadership, they have successfully completed the $11 billion acquisition. The location of the event, Boston Harbour Hotel was amazing. Since this was the breakfast event, we had to get there by 7:30. I had the privilege of enjoying the beautiful sunrise of Boston Harbour at the 7:00 in the morning.

Now I write with great enjoyment about my visit to Michael Porter’s talk. The talk was about his new book, “Redefining the Health Industry.” But more than the talk was the excitement I had in seeing him. I still vividly remember memorizing the Porter’s Five Forces of Model. I had first encountered this topic in my 12th grade in high school and the recent one was just last week – in my MBA 640 class. This concept involves a relationship between competitors within an industry, potential competitors, suppliers, buyers and alternative solutions to the problem being addressed. Very very interesting theory —as interesting as Mr. Porter himself I must say. Currently, Michael Porter is a professor at Harvard Business School. He had power in this voice and had totally taken control of the room. Everyone looked very attuned. One thing that really got my attention was his style. I noticed how much he moved his hands while doing his presentation. Seeing this I felt at ease. Why? I have a habbit of moving my hands when I am doing my presentation and it had really bothered me. However, seeing him do this, I felt relived. If Michael Porter can do it, so can I right!!

Here is another exciting news, I actually made an effort to speak with him and managed to get his business card. I have yet to write to him but this was one heck of an eventful day for me. I still cannot believe I actually met Michael Porter!

These events are the true highlight of my week.

What else----We had a very interesting discussion in my Global Marketing class. Whether or not there was a scope for a GLOBAL currency? I personally say, it is very much possible and attainable. Maybe in next 20-30 years, after all this is all about GOBALIZATION. There is the Euro, which is very much like a global currency in European continent. If this is possible-- with Germany and France in it-- then it is very much possible for the rest of the world!

I have started to read “The Kite Runner,” the long awaited book in my reading list. When Omar, one of my friends mentioned it, I could not resist it anymore. The book is fabulous. It takes me to this whole different world. I am not myself but the character in the book. To me, this is a true escape to the serenity. A really TRUE escape.

It looks beautiful outside. The late afternoon sun is still sparkling on the glasses of the tall building. The weather tomorrow is suppose to be horrible. What can I say; such are the vagaries of life. Off I go-- Cheerio!

Weekend run-down

At first glance it looked overwhelming. It was crowded-- very very crowded. Since it was the Laxmi pooja, we had decided to go to the laxmi temple at Framigham. We wanted to go in the morning but later decided to go in the evening. The day was very nice. Sunny-- high 40s to be exact. We decided to take a quick walk at the Regatta. Regatta- HEAD of CHARLES is a boating event that happens ever year around this time. It is a two day event where all the big schools compete in a boat rate at the Charles River. The ambience is bit festive-- of course, nothing like our tihar back home. The whole of Harvard Square is crowded. People everywhere. Surprisingly the weather unlike the previous two years had been very friendly. We actually were quite fortunate to see the sun. Walking around the Bank of the river was indeed quite refreshing. This was my third Regatta in Boston.

That night along with Shailendra dai, we went to the temple. It was packed. We did not even find the parking and had to walk for almost 10 minutes. For a second, it felt like temple in Nepal-- well not exactly, but somewhat similar--- shoes lined up on the floor, people waiting on a queue to get inside the main door--Surprisingly we bumped into subarna dai who had also come to the temple with prativa di. It was indeed a co-incidence because I had just told prasanna that it would be so much like Nepal if we bumped into someone and there he was! Even though, the ambience was nothing like Nepal, it still felt really nice seeing all those people.

After spending an hour in the temple, we went to have a dinner at a Indian resturant in Framingham. The dinner was nice and cozy but even nicer than that was the intellectual conversation we had with Shailendra dai. We talked about various things-- ranging from all the philosophical topics of mind,distractions, self- realaization, sucess, failures.Very very important topics indeed.

It might sound quite astounding, but to me, one of the biggest acomplishments is when I start to control my own mind. Your mind-- well, my mind wanders a lot. Sometimes I am in the library trying to finish my homework but within few minutes I find myself doing something else --something totally different than the accouting I am intended to do. This is all DISTRACTION-- My core enemy. At this point in life, time is very crucial for me. I have so much to do and so little time and here I am wasting my time doing something else. Shailendra dai added a very important point-- he said," do not expect to see the change overnight, it wil take sometime.." Since I am very impatient this is one of the very important thigs that I need to keep in mind. I have to admit I am very impatient.I have improved a lot thanks to prasanna but I need to work a lot!

I am positive that this could possibly backfire me in future if I do not improve it. At the moment, we are in a library. I am trying to do study. Mr D is also working. I just finished writing my Career Development plan for the MBA 600 class. This is sort of an essay outlining your career goals based on your interest, your strengths and your weakness. At this time, I am happy that I have a goal. Many people are quite ambiguous when it comes to their goals. I was -- when I was in my undergraduate. Until my second semester I was not sure of what my major was going to be. I remember writing my dad and asking for his help. However, at this time it is all different and one of the major reasons for this is my work experience. My work at Nissan really helped me find my true passion. I love working for products and brands to be exact. I like -- I am going to use stronger word-- I love to explore new cultures and different interest and then try to develop a marketing strategy accordingly. Since the “WORLD IS FLAT", after all, it is about understanding new cultures and trying to cater it accordingly.

My goal eventually is to work in an International Organizations, however, for a start, I would like to work in a Multi national companies.

I have my Organizational Behaviour presentation tomorrow. We are doing a presentation of " The epic of Survival"-- the story of Sir Ernest Shackelton. Very interesting story about a courageous leader. A story about a great leader who truly overcame all the obstacles and successfully conquered his journey. While working on this presentation, I also realized a lot about the topic “Courage". It indeed takes a lot to be a COURAGEOUS Person. I take the example of the movie BILLY ELLIOT-- one of my favorite movies, where Billy, the 11 year old boy follows his passion about doing the BALLET. Learning from your setbacks is another form of Courage and I TRULY ADMIRE those people who despite their failure do not get afraid to try it again and AGAIN AND AGAIN!! I know a person like this and I AM very happy to say that he is my TRUE role model. :)

It looks quite dark outside. Soon it will be cold. The day light saving is at the end of this month. It is bad because the day is going to be shorter.On an interesting note, this morning, I did a little bit of Raag myself. I also practiced the “OMMMM" with MR D your mind really was in a tranquil stage. For a second, you forget about everything-- absolutely everything. The only thing in front of you is your mind.

Tomorrow is another longg day for me. I am going to attend the Lecture series at Boston hotel. It starts at 7:45 which means I have to be out by 6:30.On Tuesday, I am attending “MICHAEL PORTER'S " speech and I am soo much loooking forward to this. I have read about his theory since high school and now finally being able to see him is a true honor. He is a professor at Harvard business school and indeed a true scholar.

( This is supposed to have been posted yesterday, however, thanks to my procrastination side, I decided to wait till today)

I went to see Mr. Terry Lundgren, Chairman, President & CEO, Federated Department Stores, Inc at Boston Harbour Hotel. Very exciting event. I got to shake hands with Mr. Lundgren and got to ask him a question about the strategy of the company.

life

“Such are the vagaries of life.”

Reluctantly, I have started to believe in this sentence. Mr. D used to say and still says this every time I tell him something—any happy or sad things-- or anything at all.

I've been doing a lot of reflection lately. Even though I have been avoiding the literal meaning of this sentence, I have gradually started to believe in it.

Do I want to?

If I had choice, I would not.

I would like to undo lot of things. Yet! I cannot.

Why?

“Because such are the vagaries of life”

One moment you are happy and in a matter of a second you can be a total darkness.

Harder to understand is the cycle of life that mistakenly assumes that we have taken time to understand everything when the truth of the fact is no one has! Not even the most philosophical person.

Life is simple -everyone claims.

And yet, without a doubt, I humbly admit that life is unfair and it is dubious.

I want to go on and on and I wanto to CRY -- just CRY— sadly what is done cannot be undone and it is best if I put a full stop right now.

Classes are going on. It has been busy. It is the networking week they say. Did little bit of a mingle with the other MBA students today.

I attended the panel discussion of Felix Rodriguez, The CEO of CITGO. He opened his speech with a quote, “London has Big Ben, France has Eiffel tower and Boston has the CITGO” Even though this sign has been one of the oldest landmark in the city of Boston, never did I know the fact that this company was actually from Venezuela.

The overall lecture series was ok. Honestly speaking, I was not as impressed as I had compared to the ones I have seen. So far, the best one for me was from Lord Ian Brown, the CEO of BP. That old man is filled with fire and that is how a good leader should be I think. Well, that is the image I have of a good leader.

A leader with a DRIVE, A leader with a chutzpa!

My marketing class was fun. We did a case study of ADIDAS and Cartier. Two powerful brands with two different marketing strategy and niche. One thing that I realize when I talk about this topic is the passion I have with the topic of “Brand.” I had worked in a brand department at Nissan and had enjoyed tremendously. This is what I would like to do in future.

It is about 12:00 am. I just finished my Stat homework. Mr. D is doing his work and I am taking a break. I thought I would catch up with the blog. I am also watching “The Charlie Rose Show,” one program that I have not stopped watching since the sophomore year in college. I love this show. Rarely on television can you find intelligent, sustained conversation between grown-ups about subjects that are genuinely interesting. Charlie Rose is INDEED an exception.

I had chance to watch, Bill gates and Warrant buffet, Vinod khosla, Amartya sen and he is interviewing Mr. Mikhail Gorbachev tomorrow. Right now, Mr. Rose is interviewing Paul Volcker, the president of World Bank and Nandan Nilekan,the CEO of INFOSYS.Last week, I had a chance to watch the interview of George Soros and John Grishm, my favourite author.

Let me share one interesting thing! I have managed to watch most of the movies based on his book. The favorite one so far has been “The firm” and “The runaway juries.”

I have a long day tomorrow. Good night!