我十八歲The most blissful thing for me is my friendships by Luke Wang
Adjusting to life in America is a hard process. Two difficulties international students face are the language barrier and emotional frustration. Always having to face language barriers, cultural differences and social isolation, many students might crash emotionally. For me, I look at it as a chance to learn and grow.
As I am living with a bunch of Americans, I need to adjust to some things. Living in the dormitory is an interesting experience that most freshmen go through, and things can get pretty crazy. Americans love playing loud music in their rooms, sometimes blasting it ‘til midnight. They also aren't aware of using others' beginning, I was surprised to find my roommate's friends sitting on my bed and suing my desk. Sometimes they even used my things without giving me a heads-up. Many small things in daily life, which in Chinese culture are considered impolite, do not matter to them. It has been a big adjustment, but I have learned how to communicate with them about my feelings. Surprisingly, they respect me I think living in the dorm is a great way to learn more about American freshman life and make new friends as well.
Grammar
Americans love playing loud music in their rooms, sometimes blasting it 'til midnight.
'til (informal way to say till, until )=until
...blasting it until midnight.
until or till =up to the time of
*Until the policemen have questioned everyone in the room, no one is allowed to leave.
Vocabulary
barrier-障碍，阻碍
*Despite the language barrier, the two foreign students became close friends.
*His poor health condition is a great barrier for him to finish school.
blast-轰然作响 或发出刺耳的声音。
*The driver blasted the horn trying to warn the car in front of him.大鸣喇叭
*The neighbor is always blasting music from his apartment late at night.
heads-up-事先示意或知会。知会哪方面用“about“
*The secretary gave my department a head-up about tomorrow's inspection.
*Someone should have given us a heads-up about the change in schedule.
Chat Room
crash-碰撞，撞上什么东西。
crash emotionally-情绪崩溃
stock market crash-股市崩盘
Can I crash at your place? 我能在你家打地铺
crush-单恋，被电到了
Have a crush on someone.一方单恋另一方，被某人电到了。
Friday, February 26, 2010
Sunday, February 21, 2010
The Breathtaking Beauty of Huangshan
神州的天梯：黃山 Huangshan inspires poets and travelers 無論是騷人墨客或遊客都受到了黃山的啟迪The famous mountain area has attracted travelers and inspired poets and artists for centuries by Ruth Devlin
Famed 8th century poet Li Bai (李白) wrote:
Thousands of feet high towers the Yellow Mountains
With its thirty-two magnificent peaks,
Blooming like golden lotus flowers
Amidst red crags and rock columns.
Li Bai was the first to use the name Huangshan (黃山) when capturing the mountain range’s beauty with words. Over the following centuries, from the Tang Dynasty through the Qing Dynasty, more than 20,000 poems were written attempting to capture Huangshan’s exquisite loveliness. Many describe it as “the loveliest mountain of China.” For centuries, the steep slopes and magnificent scenery have lured travelers.
Located in southern Anhui (安徽）province,Mount Huangshan encompasses an area of 150 sq. km. More than 70 peaks rise 1,000 m into the sky. Huangshan has more than 400 famous scenic attractions of which 140 have been developed and opened to tourists.
Huangshan was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990 because of its unique landforms and extraordinary natural beauty. To fully appreciate that beauty and see the mountain area's famous features, you must reach the summit, which is actually a number of peaks. A trail called Peak Circuit runs among them. To reach the summit, you can choose to climb the Eastern or Western Steps. The former is easier but quite crowded with tourists as well as vendors selling water, snacks and souvenirs. Those who climb the Western Steps experience a more rugged climb: If you prefer to ride, you can take one of the three cable car lines to the summit. One more alternative exists for reaching the peaks. A person can be carried up the mountain in a sedan chair. But the speed at which the two men move and the steep trails make this an option only for the truly adventurous.
Along any path, you'll encounter rocks, trees and scenic outlooks, like "Magpie in a Plum Tree" or "Monkey Transfixed by the Sea," named for whatever they resemble. Near the Jade Screen Pavilion stands a must-see: the Welcoming Pine, or Yingke (迎客）Song. The ancient tree's branches stretch out in welcome. Another must for visitors is watching the sunrise from one of the peaks; the view overlooking Beihai (北海）is simply stunning.
Regardless of how you reach the top or how much unspoiled, natural beauty you see, visiting Huangshan will be the high point of your China visit.
Grammar
Another must for visitors is watching the sunrise from one of the peaks.
must-You must do your homework.
must-here is (noun)-a necessity.
*A proper education is a must for every child.
*Having a personal set of paint brushes is a must for every student enrolled in this class.
Vocabulary
crags-峭壁，悬崖。strange shape of rock, , very steep near vertical.
The photographer loves to shoot crags in Scotland.
*The beautiful scenery of the cragged coastline captured my eyes.
column-long shape of rock, stand high.
breathtaking-unbelievable beautiful.
encompasses-included.
circuit-round, from one point to end up the same point.
exquisite-精美的，精致的，制作精良的，敏锐的
The editor is famous for her exquisite taste in fashion.敏锐的品味。
*The exquisite wedding gown was handmade in Paris.
lure-引诱，诱惑，吸引。
*The prey was lured into a trap set by the hunter.
*Money lured him away from his morals and he betrayed his boss.
*Good benefits and a cash bonus should lure new graduates to accept a job here.
alternative-选择，可供选择的人，事，物。其他选择。alter-其他
If you don't want to eat at the college cafeteria, there are many alternatives.
*It seems that I don't have any alternative but to listen to you.
transfix-用刺刺穿，这指“使楞住不动或是被吓呆了”
*The people were transfixed at the sight of the accident.
*The deer were transfixed by our bright headlights.
unspoiled-未被污染，糟蹋，未被破坏的。
*The small, unspoiled village is located deep in the mountains.
*The unspoiled beauty of this beach should be preserved.
sedan chair-you sit in a chair, somebody carry you, take you to the top of the mountain.轿子。 Magpie-a kind of bird, big size.
resemble-whatever they look like.
UNESCO="United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization"
Chat Room
apex, summit, peak, -顶端，尖端，最高峰。
peak整座山峰/summit顶端/mountaintop山顶- the top of the mountain.
peak-refer to mountain itself/summit-refer to highiest point of something(mountain)
climb a peak爬到山顶, you can't say "climb a summit", we say "reach a summit"抵达山顶, 用"reach"
peaks in a roll can form a mountain range.-一连串的peak可以形成一个"山脉，山系”
-------------
outlook可以眺望景色有视野的地方/lookout 瞭望/look out小心，或寻找
scenic outlook-有好视野，可看到美丽的风景。
a lookout point=a lookout 瞭望台
look out! 小心，提醒别人注意
look out for something-寻找某样东西。
Can you look out for my wallet?
Famed 8th century poet Li Bai (李白) wrote:
Thousands of feet high towers the Yellow Mountains
With its thirty-two magnificent peaks,
Blooming like golden lotus flowers
Amidst red crags and rock columns.
Li Bai was the first to use the name Huangshan (黃山) when capturing the mountain range’s beauty with words. Over the following centuries, from the Tang Dynasty through the Qing Dynasty, more than 20,000 poems were written attempting to capture Huangshan’s exquisite loveliness. Many describe it as “the loveliest mountain of China.” For centuries, the steep slopes and magnificent scenery have lured travelers.
Located in southern Anhui (安徽）province,Mount Huangshan encompasses an area of 150 sq. km. More than 70 peaks rise 1,000 m into the sky. Huangshan has more than 400 famous scenic attractions of which 140 have been developed and opened to tourists.
Huangshan was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990 because of its unique landforms and extraordinary natural beauty. To fully appreciate that beauty and see the mountain area's famous features, you must reach the summit, which is actually a number of peaks. A trail called Peak Circuit runs among them. To reach the summit, you can choose to climb the Eastern or Western Steps. The former is easier but quite crowded with tourists as well as vendors selling water, snacks and souvenirs. Those who climb the Western Steps experience a more rugged climb: If you prefer to ride, you can take one of the three cable car lines to the summit. One more alternative exists for reaching the peaks. A person can be carried up the mountain in a sedan chair. But the speed at which the two men move and the steep trails make this an option only for the truly adventurous.
Along any path, you'll encounter rocks, trees and scenic outlooks, like "Magpie in a Plum Tree" or "Monkey Transfixed by the Sea," named for whatever they resemble. Near the Jade Screen Pavilion stands a must-see: the Welcoming Pine, or Yingke (迎客）Song. The ancient tree's branches stretch out in welcome. Another must for visitors is watching the sunrise from one of the peaks; the view overlooking Beihai (北海）is simply stunning.
Regardless of how you reach the top or how much unspoiled, natural beauty you see, visiting Huangshan will be the high point of your China visit.
Grammar
Another must for visitors is watching the sunrise from one of the peaks.
must-You must do your homework.
must-here is (noun)-a necessity.
*A proper education is a must for every child.
*Having a personal set of paint brushes is a must for every student enrolled in this class.
Vocabulary
crags-峭壁，悬崖。strange shape of rock, , very steep near vertical.
The photographer loves to shoot crags in Scotland.
*The beautiful scenery of the cragged coastline captured my eyes.
column-long shape of rock, stand high.
breathtaking-unbelievable beautiful.
encompasses-included.
circuit-round, from one point to end up the same point.
exquisite-精美的，精致的，制作精良的，敏锐的
The editor is famous for her exquisite taste in fashion.敏锐的品味。
*The exquisite wedding gown was handmade in Paris.
lure-引诱，诱惑，吸引。
*The prey was lured into a trap set by the hunter.
*Money lured him away from his morals and he betrayed his boss.
*Good benefits and a cash bonus should lure new graduates to accept a job here.
alternative-选择，可供选择的人，事，物。其他选择。alter-其他
If you don't want to eat at the college cafeteria, there are many alternatives.
*It seems that I don't have any alternative but to listen to you.
transfix-用刺刺穿，这指“使楞住不动或是被吓呆了”
*The people were transfixed at the sight of the accident.
*The deer were transfixed by our bright headlights.
unspoiled-未被污染，糟蹋，未被破坏的。
*The small, unspoiled village is located deep in the mountains.
*The unspoiled beauty of this beach should be preserved.
sedan chair-you sit in a chair, somebody carry you, take you to the top of the mountain.轿子。 Magpie-a kind of bird, big size.
resemble-whatever they look like.
UNESCO="United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization"
Chat Room
apex, summit, peak, -顶端，尖端，最高峰。
peak整座山峰/summit顶端/mountaintop山顶- the top of the mountain.
peak-refer to mountain itself/summit-refer to highiest point of something(mountain)
climb a peak爬到山顶, you can't say "climb a summit", we say "reach a summit"抵达山顶, 用"reach"
peaks in a roll can form a mountain range.-一连串的peak可以形成一个"山脉，山系”
-------------
outlook可以眺望景色有视野的地方/lookout 瞭望/look out小心，或寻找
scenic outlook-有好视野，可看到美丽的风景。
a lookout point=a lookout 瞭望台
look out! 小心，提醒别人注意
look out for something-寻找某样东西。
Can you look out for my wallet?
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Tree Valley Park
當工業和大自然相遇When industry meets nature Find out what makes this industrial park different by Linda Ludwig
What do eco-friendly buildings, a high-tech industrial area, and an archaeological site have in common? If you ask the people at Chi Mei Optoelectronics (CMO), they will say everything. And if you visit the site of Chi Mei’s LCD-TV special zone called Tree Valley Park, adjacent to the Southern Taiwan Science Park, you will most likely find yourself in agreement.
What you first notice when you enter Tree Valley Park is that it doesn’t fit most people’s image of an industrial park. You won’t find gray buildings with tiny windows and smokestacks pouring pollutants into the environment anywhere. Instead you see clean, wide streets, buildings exhibiting state-of-the-art "green" architecture, a beautiful lake, grass and trees. In fact, eventually, a total of 100,000 saplings will be planted on the premises, and additional plans call for an organic greenhouse and vegetable garden.
By making use of technology that prevents pollution and concepts that utilize environmentally protective designs, CMO has improved the company's efficiency while preserving natural resources. Caring for the local ecosystem, educating students regarding environment protection, and supporting projects that preserve local culture are the goals of those who work at Tree Valley Park.
Tree Valley Park has opened wide its gates to anyone desiring to get away from it all for a day. Visitors can pedal along the 17-kilometer bike path that meanders around Tree Valley's 247 hectares of land.
The curious can visit the Siraya Tribe archaeological excavation site where cultural artifacts and skeletons can be found from this 10,000-year-old people group that inhabited the area. The interactive Museum of Life Science, scheduled to open in September, promises related exhibits in science as well as others in art and music. Man-made Mandolin Lake offers boating and other water activities for the whole family.
An additional pleasure comes on summer evenings when visitors can sit on its banks and enjoy a concert. For visitors who want to burn off some energy. The Green Water Tree Sports and Recreation Center beckons. In 2009, this state-of-the-art facility won Taiwan's diamond-class certification for green buildings.
The park's European-style concert hall not only seats 500 people, but also boasts a balcony around the stage for those who desire a bird's eye view of the conductor. Whether for business or pleasure, Tree Valley Park shows that ecology matters. Go and see for yourself!
Grammar
Using different words to avoid repeatedly "There is"
(1) ...where cultural artifacts and skeletons can be found.
(2) The interactive Museum of Life Science promises related exhibits in science as well as others in art and music.
(3) Man-made Mandolin Lake offers boating and other water activities for the whole family.
(4) An additional pleasure comes on summer evenings when visitors can sit on its banks and enjoy a concert.
(5) The park's European style concert hall not only seats 500 people, but also boasts a balcony around the stage....
Vocabulary
archaeological-考古学的 archaeological findings. 考古的发掘
*Only authorized persons are allowed to enter this archaeological site.
archaeology考古学-archaeologist考古学家
optoelectronics-optoelectronic-opto-vision or sight something to your vision.
pollutants-污染物pollute (v), pollution
*The test results showed that there are certain chemical pollutants in the water.
*The smoke released from factories polluted the air.
ecosystem-生态系统 eco-与生态有关的
*Intensive logging in this area destroyed the previously well-balanced ecosystem. 大量砍伐
excavation (n)- 挖掘工作, to excavate (v)挖掘
*The excavation of this site lasted several months.
archaeological excavation= archaeological dig.考古的挖掘工作
interactive-互动interact(v)
*The interactive teaching technique is well-received by students.
*interactive video games.
beckon-招唤，吸引。
*The beautiful sea life of the waters in this area beckons divers.
*The countless opportunities in Hollywood beckon many young talents.
sapling-baby tree (tree trunk is very thin and small)
premises-land or place owned by someone.
ecology-生态学study in ecological and ecosystem-combine ecosystem and green
adjacent-next to, very close.
smokestack-the industry pouring pollutants through the big chimney.
Chat Room
park-公园，
Industry park-工业区
National Park-国家公园such as the most famous "Yellow Stone National Park " -Old Faithful Geyser
amusement park游乐场=theme park 主题乐园，每一个游乐场有一个主题。
Disneyland theme park 里有"Tomorrow land", "Adventure land" ....
------------------
get away-escape -逃离，或避免（做什么）
get away from it all-远离所有一切的日常作息生活中的工作劳苦，柴米油盐锁事。
get away to vacation
It's time for me to get away.
getaway (n)- a getaway=vacation. 逃离生活的假期。
What do eco-friendly buildings, a high-tech industrial area, and an archaeological site have in common? If you ask the people at Chi Mei Optoelectronics (CMO), they will say everything. And if you visit the site of Chi Mei’s LCD-TV special zone called Tree Valley Park, adjacent to the Southern Taiwan Science Park, you will most likely find yourself in agreement.
What you first notice when you enter Tree Valley Park is that it doesn’t fit most people’s image of an industrial park. You won’t find gray buildings with tiny windows and smokestacks pouring pollutants into the environment anywhere. Instead you see clean, wide streets, buildings exhibiting state-of-the-art "green" architecture, a beautiful lake, grass and trees. In fact, eventually, a total of 100,000 saplings will be planted on the premises, and additional plans call for an organic greenhouse and vegetable garden.
By making use of technology that prevents pollution and concepts that utilize environmentally protective designs, CMO has improved the company's efficiency while preserving natural resources. Caring for the local ecosystem, educating students regarding environment protection, and supporting projects that preserve local culture are the goals of those who work at Tree Valley Park.
Tree Valley Park has opened wide its gates to anyone desiring to get away from it all for a day. Visitors can pedal along the 17-kilometer bike path that meanders around Tree Valley's 247 hectares of land.
The curious can visit the Siraya Tribe archaeological excavation site where cultural artifacts and skeletons can be found from this 10,000-year-old people group that inhabited the area. The interactive Museum of Life Science, scheduled to open in September, promises related exhibits in science as well as others in art and music. Man-made Mandolin Lake offers boating and other water activities for the whole family.
An additional pleasure comes on summer evenings when visitors can sit on its banks and enjoy a concert. For visitors who want to burn off some energy. The Green Water Tree Sports and Recreation Center beckons. In 2009, this state-of-the-art facility won Taiwan's diamond-class certification for green buildings.
The park's European-style concert hall not only seats 500 people, but also boasts a balcony around the stage for those who desire a bird's eye view of the conductor. Whether for business or pleasure, Tree Valley Park shows that ecology matters. Go and see for yourself!
Grammar
Using different words to avoid repeatedly "There is"
(1) ...where cultural artifacts and skeletons can be found.
(2) The interactive Museum of Life Science promises related exhibits in science as well as others in art and music.
(3) Man-made Mandolin Lake offers boating and other water activities for the whole family.
(4) An additional pleasure comes on summer evenings when visitors can sit on its banks and enjoy a concert.
(5) The park's European style concert hall not only seats 500 people, but also boasts a balcony around the stage....
Vocabulary
archaeological-考古学的 archaeological findings. 考古的发掘
*Only authorized persons are allowed to enter this archaeological site.
archaeology考古学-archaeologist考古学家
optoelectronics-optoelectronic-opto-vision or sight something to your vision.
pollutants-污染物pollute (v), pollution
*The test results showed that there are certain chemical pollutants in the water.
*The smoke released from factories polluted the air.
ecosystem-生态系统 eco-与生态有关的
*Intensive logging in this area destroyed the previously well-balanced ecosystem. 大量砍伐
excavation (n)- 挖掘工作, to excavate (v)挖掘
*The excavation of this site lasted several months.
archaeological excavation= archaeological dig.考古的挖掘工作
interactive-互动interact(v)
*The interactive teaching technique is well-received by students.
*interactive video games.
beckon-招唤，吸引。
*The beautiful sea life of the waters in this area beckons divers.
*The countless opportunities in Hollywood beckon many young talents.
sapling-baby tree (tree trunk is very thin and small)
premises-land or place owned by someone.
ecology-生态学study in ecological and ecosystem-combine ecosystem and green
adjacent-next to, very close.
smokestack-the industry pouring pollutants through the big chimney.
Chat Room
park-公园，
Industry park-工业区
National Park-国家公园such as the most famous "Yellow Stone National Park " -Old Faithful Geyser
amusement park游乐场=theme park 主题乐园，每一个游乐场有一个主题。
Disneyland theme park 里有"Tomorrow land", "Adventure land" ....
------------------
get away-escape -逃离，或避免（做什么）
get away from it all-远离所有一切的日常作息生活中的工作劳苦，柴米油盐锁事。
get away to vacation
It's time for me to get away.
getaway (n)- a getaway=vacation. 逃离生活的假期。
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Choosing World's Top Dog
狗狗選秀大賽Dogs from around the world compete this week in the Westminster Dog Show 來自世界各地的頂尖狗兒在威斯敏思特狗展中齊聚一堂The Westminster Dog Show brings together the world’s top dogs by Pamela Osment
Dogs take center stage this week at the Westminster Dog Show in New York City. Millions of people will view the competition in person, on television and online. The show includes over 2,500 dogs. Over its 134-year history, a total of 296,451 dogs have been judged. Sometimes called the “Super Bowl of dog shows,” Westminster is considered America’s top dog competition.
Each year, the show invites the top five dogs in each breed. The remaining openings fill up very quickly – sometimes within the first hour of registration. Selected dogs are grouped according to their breed. Then the 173 breeds are divided into seven groups. Today and tomorrow, one winner per breed will be chosen and named the "Best of Breed." Those winners will then compete against other winners in their group for the "Best of Group." chosen and named the "Best of Group." The seven winners will then face off for the "Best in show". Using American Kennel Club standards, judges will select the dog they feel best represents its breed.
Doggie extra
While the show itself involves long, stress-filled hours, the hotel stay can be just the opposite. Certain hotels in the area of the show offer little extras for the dogs. Though not free, special services include treadmills, pet paintings, hair salons and more. At $450 for a cut and $800 for a portrait, the extras can get expensive. Many Westminster dog owners admit to spending &100,000 yearly on their dogs.
Winning opportunities
The show's winner gets opportunities to bring happiness to others. Some dogs in the past have visited sick children, injured soldiers and other patients. But appearances can be fun too. Uno, 2008's Westminster winner, went to luncheons, ballgames and the White House!
Last year, Stump, a Sussex Spaniel, amazed the crowd when he won the "Best in Show. "At the age of 10, Stump was the oldest dog to ever win the competition. Tonight, he will step aside and turn his title over to America's next top dog!
More information
There are dozens of English idioms that include the word dog. Some of the more famous include: raining cast and dogs, teach an old dog new tricks, and in the doghouse. Now, if something goes to the dogs, it means it is getting worse, either morally or physically. If you're dogging it-you're avoiding your responsibilities. Let sleeping dogs lie meants not seeking change for fear of causing even greater problems.
Grammar
...judges will select the dog they feel best represents its breed.
subject + verb + object + subject + feel best represents something else.
This phrase is useful for show how things are choose or will choose to fit someone's understanding and what the standard will be.
*The women's charitable foundation is looking for a celebrity spokeswoman whom they feel would lest represent what a working mother should look like.
*The company will choose the T-shirt design that they feel best represents the company's interest in environmental protection.
Vocabulary
take center stage (idiom)- 占重要地位或是成为瞩目的焦点.center stage-舞台中央
* The new designer's winter collection took center stage at New York's Fashion Week.
*The foreign policies of the two candidates took center stage at the presidential election.外交政策，
in person-physical person actually there.
breed (n)-品种。type, kind, a type (kind) of animal.
*This breed of cat is very rare.
*My favorite dog breed is the Golden Retriever.黄金猎犬
breed (v)- 繁殖，饲养 Henry breeds racing horses in England.
remaining opening-available space
face off-two team or two compete each other. 对抗。
*The two hockey teams will face off tomorrow night at the semi-final.对决
face-off (n)-胜出。
*It's difficult to predict which team will win the upcoming face-off in March.
opposite(adj)相反的.此当(n)相反的人或事物perfect or totally different from something or someone.
*Brandon is very outgoing, but his wife Anna is just the opposite.非常外向
*Life here in the country is the exact opposite of city life.生活
injured-受伤的（injure使受伤）的过去分词, injury (n)
*The injured passengers were taken to the emergency room.
*Her injured leg will take several months to heal.
Step aside (idiom)-from the center stage to aside.退位，退开，让出位子
*I decided to step aside and let the young people express themselves.让出位子
*Step aside! Let me talk to my son.站到一边去，都让开。
Chat Room
dog-
work like a dog-工作像狗一样，是说工作很辛苦，很卖力。
top dog (idiom)-指头头，领导人，老板，最重要的人物。
*He is the top dog in the company. 他是公司的老板。
dog tire (idiom)-很疲累，很累，累坏了。I'm dog tired.
fight like cats and dogs (idiom)-彼此激烈的争吵。
a dog-eat-dog world (idiom)-弱肉强食的社会。
------------------------
title-可以是一本书的书名或是电影片名，此指“头衔”
job title-职称
defend his title-竞赛获争夺冠军，前届的冠军为卫冕成功而战。
lose his title-卫冕失败
entitled-给与权利，使有资格He is entitled to a pension
Dogs take center stage this week at the Westminster Dog Show in New York City. Millions of people will view the competition in person, on television and online. The show includes over 2,500 dogs. Over its 134-year history, a total of 296,451 dogs have been judged. Sometimes called the “Super Bowl of dog shows,” Westminster is considered America’s top dog competition.
Each year, the show invites the top five dogs in each breed. The remaining openings fill up very quickly – sometimes within the first hour of registration. Selected dogs are grouped according to their breed. Then the 173 breeds are divided into seven groups. Today and tomorrow, one winner per breed will be chosen and named the "Best of Breed." Those winners will then compete against other winners in their group for the "Best of Group." chosen and named the "Best of Group." The seven winners will then face off for the "Best in show". Using American Kennel Club standards, judges will select the dog they feel best represents its breed.
Doggie extra
While the show itself involves long, stress-filled hours, the hotel stay can be just the opposite. Certain hotels in the area of the show offer little extras for the dogs. Though not free, special services include treadmills, pet paintings, hair salons and more. At $450 for a cut and $800 for a portrait, the extras can get expensive. Many Westminster dog owners admit to spending &100,000 yearly on their dogs.
Winning opportunities
The show's winner gets opportunities to bring happiness to others. Some dogs in the past have visited sick children, injured soldiers and other patients. But appearances can be fun too. Uno, 2008's Westminster winner, went to luncheons, ballgames and the White House!
Last year, Stump, a Sussex Spaniel, amazed the crowd when he won the "Best in Show. "At the age of 10, Stump was the oldest dog to ever win the competition. Tonight, he will step aside and turn his title over to America's next top dog!
More information
There are dozens of English idioms that include the word dog. Some of the more famous include: raining cast and dogs, teach an old dog new tricks, and in the doghouse. Now, if something goes to the dogs, it means it is getting worse, either morally or physically. If you're dogging it-you're avoiding your responsibilities. Let sleeping dogs lie meants not seeking change for fear of causing even greater problems.
Grammar
...judges will select the dog they feel best represents its breed.
subject + verb + object + subject + feel best represents something else.
This phrase is useful for show how things are choose or will choose to fit someone's understanding and what the standard will be.
*The women's charitable foundation is looking for a celebrity spokeswoman whom they feel would lest represent what a working mother should look like.
*The company will choose the T-shirt design that they feel best represents the company's interest in environmental protection.
Vocabulary
take center stage (idiom)- 占重要地位或是成为瞩目的焦点.center stage-舞台中央
* The new designer's winter collection took center stage at New York's Fashion Week.
*The foreign policies of the two candidates took center stage at the presidential election.外交政策，
in person-physical person actually there.
breed (n)-品种。type, kind, a type (kind) of animal.
*This breed of cat is very rare.
*My favorite dog breed is the Golden Retriever.黄金猎犬
breed (v)- 繁殖，饲养 Henry breeds racing horses in England.
remaining opening-available space
face off-two team or two compete each other. 对抗。
*The two hockey teams will face off tomorrow night at the semi-final.对决
face-off (n)-胜出。
*It's difficult to predict which team will win the upcoming face-off in March.
opposite(adj)相反的.此当(n)相反的人或事物perfect or totally different from something or someone.
*Brandon is very outgoing, but his wife Anna is just the opposite.非常外向
*Life here in the country is the exact opposite of city life.生活
injured-受伤的（injure使受伤）的过去分词, injury (n)
*The injured passengers were taken to the emergency room.
*Her injured leg will take several months to heal.
Step aside (idiom)-from the center stage to aside.退位，退开，让出位子
*I decided to step aside and let the young people express themselves.让出位子
*Step aside! Let me talk to my son.站到一边去，都让开。
Chat Room
dog-
work like a dog-工作像狗一样，是说工作很辛苦，很卖力。
top dog (idiom)-指头头，领导人，老板，最重要的人物。
*He is the top dog in the company. 他是公司的老板。
dog tire (idiom)-很疲累，很累，累坏了。I'm dog tired.
fight like cats and dogs (idiom)-彼此激烈的争吵。
a dog-eat-dog world (idiom)-弱肉强食的社会。
------------------------
title-可以是一本书的书名或是电影片名，此指“头衔”
job title-职称
defend his title-竞赛获争夺冠军，前届的冠军为卫冕成功而战。
lose his title-卫冕失败
entitled-给与权利，使有资格He is entitled to a pension
Friday, February 12, 2010
Lunar New Year Memories
話說農曆年Remembering Lunar New Year celebrations of the past by Ruth Devlin
In the past during Lunar New Year time, businesses closed and families stayed home together. Nowadays, some families eat their New Year’s Eve dinner in a restaurant or go abroad for vacation. But children still anticipate red envelopes, and families enjoy lively conversation with relatives they rarely see.
Ninety-year-old Zhi-Nang Hung, whose family hails from Anhui (安徽) province, remembers his mother preparing two fish dishes for their New Year’s Eve dinner. One was eaten that night, and the other was kept intact for New Year’s Day, meaning the family would have plenty.Ninety-year-old artist Paul Wei recalls enjoying jiaozi (饺子）at New Year's celebrations in northern China. The adults would make the jiaozi, and someone would put an ancient coin into one. "One lucky person would find the coin. Then my grandparents would give him or her an extra red envelope symbolizing his or her good luck for the coming year." says Wei Eighty-two-year-old Yen-Su Tung Lee remembers celebrating Lunar New Year as a child in Kaohsiung. She reminisces, "My parents asked the relatives from Japan to bring me a new uniform. Everything was brand new from my head to my feet. We enjoyed a good dinner of chicken, duck and meat, which seldom appeared on our table except on special occasions."
Good food and new clothes no longer appear just at Lunar New Year, but the togetherness and hope for good fortune still hold a prominent place.
Grammar
...remembers his mother preparing two fish dishes for their New Year's Eve dinner.
...recalls enjoying jiao zi at New Year's celebrations in northern China.
...reminisces about her parents asking the relatives from Japan to bring her a new uniform.
remembers, recalls, reminisces, or remind, to think back, to recollect...different ways to describe "remember" , use different words to make the phrase interesting.
to think back-James likes to think back on his days as an athlete.
to recollect-Henry would meet with his old friends and recollect memories of their school days.
Vocabulary
anticipate-expecting, put hope for it.预期,期待,预料(某事件发生)
*Movie fans will all anticipate the film's sequel.影片的续集.
*Cathy anticipates having a lot of guests at her birthday party tonight.
hail from-来自于hail-呼喊,大声地招呼.
*People hail from all parts of the country in order to attend this seminar.
*Naomi hails from the Midwest.
reminisce-回忆,追想dad loves to reminisce about his days in the Navy.
*As traveling companions, we got together once a year to reminisce about our adventure in Africa.
prominent- very important
symbolize-a thing or picture for special meaning.象征.
Chat Room
intact/intake
intact-something is not harmed or damaged, kept in good shape, in whole piece.完整无缺,没有损伤的.
intact-The package arrived intact.
intake (n)- 摄取(名词),吸入.your daily intake of calories.
take in (v)-摄取(动词)How many calories do you take in each day?
In the past during Lunar New Year time, businesses closed and families stayed home together. Nowadays, some families eat their New Year’s Eve dinner in a restaurant or go abroad for vacation. But children still anticipate red envelopes, and families enjoy lively conversation with relatives they rarely see.
Ninety-year-old Zhi-Nang Hung, whose family hails from Anhui (安徽) province, remembers his mother preparing two fish dishes for their New Year’s Eve dinner. One was eaten that night, and the other was kept intact for New Year’s Day, meaning the family would have plenty.Ninety-year-old artist Paul Wei recalls enjoying jiaozi (饺子）at New Year's celebrations in northern China. The adults would make the jiaozi, and someone would put an ancient coin into one. "One lucky person would find the coin. Then my grandparents would give him or her an extra red envelope symbolizing his or her good luck for the coming year." says Wei Eighty-two-year-old Yen-Su Tung Lee remembers celebrating Lunar New Year as a child in Kaohsiung. She reminisces, "My parents asked the relatives from Japan to bring me a new uniform. Everything was brand new from my head to my feet. We enjoyed a good dinner of chicken, duck and meat, which seldom appeared on our table except on special occasions."
Good food and new clothes no longer appear just at Lunar New Year, but the togetherness and hope for good fortune still hold a prominent place.
Grammar
...remembers his mother preparing two fish dishes for their New Year's Eve dinner.
...recalls enjoying jiao zi at New Year's celebrations in northern China.
...reminisces about her parents asking the relatives from Japan to bring her a new uniform.
remembers, recalls, reminisces, or remind, to think back, to recollect...different ways to describe "remember" , use different words to make the phrase interesting.
to think back-James likes to think back on his days as an athlete.
to recollect-Henry would meet with his old friends and recollect memories of their school days.
Vocabulary
anticipate-expecting, put hope for it.预期,期待,预料(某事件发生)
*Movie fans will all anticipate the film's sequel.影片的续集.
*Cathy anticipates having a lot of guests at her birthday party tonight.
hail from-来自于hail-呼喊,大声地招呼.
*People hail from all parts of the country in order to attend this seminar.
*Naomi hails from the Midwest.
reminisce-回忆,追想dad loves to reminisce about his days in the Navy.
*As traveling companions, we got together once a year to reminisce about our adventure in Africa.
prominent- very important
symbolize-a thing or picture for special meaning.象征.
Chat Room
intact/intake
intact-something is not harmed or damaged, kept in good shape, in whole piece.完整无缺,没有损伤的.
intact-The package arrived intact.
intake (n)- 摄取(名词),吸入.your daily intake of calories.
take in (v)-摄取(动词)How many calories do you take in each day?
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
The 2010 Winter Olympics
二0一0年冬季奧運Vancouver welcomes the world to this year's Winter Olympics Great athletes compete on snow and ice in Vancouver this month by Chip Ewald
For the second time in history, the Winter Olympics are being held in Canada. Beginning tomorrow, Vancouver, British Columbia, will host the 21st Winter Olympics for the next two weeks. Many of the world’s greatest athletes have gathered there to compete on snow and ice. These 2,500 athletes come from over 80 countries. In addition, over 350,000 fans will crowd into the Vancouver area to watch the competitions.
The venues
The city and the surrounding area have been busy preparing for the temporary increase in population. Figuring out where to put the thousands of visitors is not easy. Billions of dollars have been spent on constructing and improving housing, transportation, and event venues. The Opening and Closing Ceremonies – always amazing – will be held in BC Place in Vancouver. This gigantic stadium can seat 55,000 people under one roof. Typically, indoor venues can't hold a crowd that large. So this will be the first time in history that these special ceremonies will be indoors.
Most of the skiing events will be held in the Whistler area, 120 km north of Vancouver, Whistler's ski resort often ranks among the top ski resorts in North America. Its yearly average of 10m of snowfall makes it an ideal place for the snow events.
2010 Olympic logo
The host city is always responsible for creating its official Olympic logo. It should combine the city's soul with Olympic ideals. This year's symbol is based on an inukshuk-a stack of rocks used as a landmark. Native peoples in Canada have been constructing and using these in the Arctic for centuries. Building and using an inukshuk has always required people to work together. So these structures eventually came to represent teamwork, friendship and hope-perfectly fitting the Olympic spirit. The official Olympic Inukshuk stands on Whistler Mountain.
Since 1896, the Olympics have been bringing nations together through peaceful competition. This year, Vancouver is proud to carry on that tradition at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.
Grammar
350,000 people will be in the Vancouver area to watch the competitions.
crowd into-"to be" into
all of Debbie's books are on her desk.
All of Debbie's books are piled up on her desk.
During lunch time, many students are in the hallway.
Students swarm in the hallway during lunch time.
mob, flock, press, squeeze..... to describe the situation make the sentence more interesting and give life into it.
Vocabulary
host-做主人,主人,主办provide a place and things for event.
*Rio, Brazil beat Chicago and will host the 2016 Olympics.
*Our company will host a charity campaign in April.
figure out-想出来,弄出来.
*We need to figure out how to fund and start a new branch office.
*He finally figured out how to install the software after several tries.
typically-what usually happen(most of time doing)通常，一般而言或典型的，一般地
type- 形态，典型
*Victor typically checks his e-mail before the start of his work day.
*Typically, tickets to the singer's concerts sell out the first day. 很典型的。
ideals-(n)完全的典型或典范.(adj.)(常用複数)理想的
The couple shares the same ideals and works together as partners.
*Daniel is Andrea's ideal of a perfect husband.
landmark-地标land-土地, mark-标志 landmark doesn't have to be a big building.
Taipei 101 has become Taipei City's most recognized landmark.
Central Park is one of New York City's famous landmarks.
teamwork- 团队精神,团队合作.
Increasing our sales requires a lot of teamwork and efficient strategies.
*His excellent teamwork skills make him a great coach.
Chat Room
one of the greatest books of all time.複數型代表着一群体.
one of ...其中的一个
some of ....
many of ....
one of the greatest books.
Many of the world's greatest athletes.一群世界顶级的运动员.
one of the prettiest girls I know.
--------------------
spirit-ghost 灵魂,幽灵.or refer to feeling of anticipation and excitement.
Olympic spirit, X'mas spirit.奥林匹克精神,圣诞心情
spirits-心情
in good spirits 好心情
in bad spirits-坏心情,
美国人迷信Friday, the 13th 是不祥的日子,仅量少出门,少出外活动.
down on your (his,their) luck -运气很差That's just his (their) luck-运气不好
in luck-好运当头,好运来了,运气好.
For the second time in history, the Winter Olympics are being held in Canada. Beginning tomorrow, Vancouver, British Columbia, will host the 21st Winter Olympics for the next two weeks. Many of the world’s greatest athletes have gathered there to compete on snow and ice. These 2,500 athletes come from over 80 countries. In addition, over 350,000 fans will crowd into the Vancouver area to watch the competitions.
The venues
The city and the surrounding area have been busy preparing for the temporary increase in population. Figuring out where to put the thousands of visitors is not easy. Billions of dollars have been spent on constructing and improving housing, transportation, and event venues. The Opening and Closing Ceremonies – always amazing – will be held in BC Place in Vancouver. This gigantic stadium can seat 55,000 people under one roof. Typically, indoor venues can't hold a crowd that large. So this will be the first time in history that these special ceremonies will be indoors.
Most of the skiing events will be held in the Whistler area, 120 km north of Vancouver, Whistler's ski resort often ranks among the top ski resorts in North America. Its yearly average of 10m of snowfall makes it an ideal place for the snow events.
2010 Olympic logo
The host city is always responsible for creating its official Olympic logo. It should combine the city's soul with Olympic ideals. This year's symbol is based on an inukshuk-a stack of rocks used as a landmark. Native peoples in Canada have been constructing and using these in the Arctic for centuries. Building and using an inukshuk has always required people to work together. So these structures eventually came to represent teamwork, friendship and hope-perfectly fitting the Olympic spirit. The official Olympic Inukshuk stands on Whistler Mountain.
Since 1896, the Olympics have been bringing nations together through peaceful competition. This year, Vancouver is proud to carry on that tradition at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.
Grammar
350,000 people will be in the Vancouver area to watch the competitions.
crowd into-"to be" into
all of Debbie's books are on her desk.
All of Debbie's books are piled up on her desk.
During lunch time, many students are in the hallway.
Students swarm in the hallway during lunch time.
mob, flock, press, squeeze..... to describe the situation make the sentence more interesting and give life into it.
Vocabulary
host-做主人,主人,主办provide a place and things for event.
*Rio, Brazil beat Chicago and will host the 2016 Olympics.
*Our company will host a charity campaign in April.
figure out-想出来,弄出来.
*We need to figure out how to fund and start a new branch office.
*He finally figured out how to install the software after several tries.
typically-what usually happen(most of time doing)通常，一般而言或典型的，一般地
type- 形态，典型
*Victor typically checks his e-mail before the start of his work day.
*Typically, tickets to the singer's concerts sell out the first day. 很典型的。
ideals-(n)完全的典型或典范.(adj.)(常用複数)理想的
The couple shares the same ideals and works together as partners.
*Daniel is Andrea's ideal of a perfect husband.
landmark-地标land-土地, mark-标志 landmark doesn't have to be a big building.
Taipei 101 has become Taipei City's most recognized landmark.
Central Park is one of New York City's famous landmarks.
teamwork- 团队精神,团队合作.
Increasing our sales requires a lot of teamwork and efficient strategies.
*His excellent teamwork skills make him a great coach.
Chat Room
one of the greatest books of all time.複數型代表着一群体.
one of ...其中的一个
some of ....
many of ....
one of the greatest books.
Many of the world's greatest athletes.一群世界顶级的运动员.
one of the prettiest girls I know.
--------------------
spirit-ghost 灵魂,幽灵.or refer to feeling of anticipation and excitement.
Olympic spirit, X'mas spirit.奥林匹克精神,圣诞心情
spirits-心情
in good spirits 好心情
in bad spirits-坏心情,
美国人迷信Friday, the 13th 是不祥的日子,仅量少出门,少出外活动.
down on your (his,their) luck -运气很差That's just his (their) luck-运气不好
in luck-好运当头,好运来了,运气好.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Bananas - Nature's Super Food!
香蕉—大自然的超級食物！A banana a day may keep the doctor awayBananas can help your heart, improve your sleep, and shine your shoes! by Pamela Osment
What food item comes in its own biodegradable container, requires no cooking and tastes delicious? Bananas, of course! For these reasons and many more, bananas, the world’s most popular fruit, have become known as “the perfect fruit.”
Nature’s best
Bananas, which contain large amounts of vitamins and minerals needed by the body, represent one of nature’s healthiest food choices. In fact, bananas have three times the amount of vitamins A and C found in apples. The tasty fruit also contains five times more protein than an apple. But the health benefits don't stop there. Bananas are packed with potassium, a mineral crucial to helping human hearts function correctly. Research also confirms that potassium helps control high blood pressure. A medical college in India found that eating two bananas a day lowered one's blood pressure by 10 percent in one week!
This important mineral also aids in muscle movement and digestion and is good for the kidneys. It can also help maintain bone strength. All this can be gained through one little fruit-the banana!
Aids the body
Bananas also contain lots of vitamin B6, a very beneficial vitamin for humans. Among its many advantages, B6 assists the blood in carrying oxygen throughout the body. Without enough of this essential vitamin, the body can develop a condition called anemia. As one of the largest natural sources of B6, bananas provide approximately 20 percent of the recommended daily amount.
This delicious fruit also represents an excellent source of fiber; therefore, many doctors recommend it children with stomach problems.
Soothes the mind
Bananas provide not only physical benefits but also mental and emotional benefitsw. Bananas contain tryptophan, a well-known compond in foods that helps lift our mood. Also because tryptophan aids in sleep, eating a banana before bed helps us rest better.
Shines your shoes?
The next time you want to polish your shoes, reach for a banana skin. SOme people insist that the inside of a banana peel produces a great shine on your shoes! Whether you want a healthy snack or a cheap shoeshine, look no further than nature's perfect fruit-the banana!
More Infomation
Some unusual uses for bananas:
* Make a face mask by mashing a banana into a smooth paste and apply it to your face. This will leave your face looking and feeling smooth.
* Remove dust from your houseplants by wiping down each leaf with the inside of a banana peel.
*Rub a mosquito bite with the inside of a banana peel to stop the itching.
Grammar
But the health benefits don't stop there.
don't stop there=That's not all the health benefits。
*I overslept, so I missed my bus. And when I finally got to work, I was late for a meeting. But my problems didn't stop there.
*She is the founder of Studio Classroom and is the first foreigner to receive the Confusious Special Teacher Award, but her accomplishments don't stop there.
Vocabulary
biodegradable-生物可自然分解的。bio-生物degradable-可自然分解的。
These plastic bags are biodegradable.
The company insists on using biodegradable packaging.
The milk containers were eco-friendly.环保的
container-容器，货柜 contain-容纳，包含。
The liquid is stored in an air-tight container.密封的容器
a container ship-货柜船
protein-蛋白质Athletes need diets that are high in protein。
Tofu is a good source of protein and can be a healthy replacement for meat.
mineral-矿物质make by nature。
recommended (adj)-建议的，被推荐的recommand- 推荐
*Don't ever exceed the recommended dose of medicine.
*Mark is a highly recommeded lawyer.
fiber- 纤维（各类的）
*This raincoat is made with artificial fibers.
*The police found good evidence left in some fiber at the crime scene.
dietary fiber- 膳食纤维
*Whole-weat bread provides more dietary fiber than white bread.
polish-腊(n)maxy substance. (v)shining shoes. 磨光，擦亮。润饰，使经验。
*Alice took a lot of time polishing her speech 润饰
Chat Room
pack 充满，拥挤，塞满的意思 put large amount of something.
pack with suitcase-装箱
packed (adj)-挤满了，塞满了，拥挤的
pack into-they pack into a small car.挤进，挤上
pack in (v)-挤进一个地方，把那塞暴。
pack on-add or gain
packed on some pound 加了数磅
--------------------
aid-帮助，援助，
rescue aid救援=rescue relief 救援（救援工作，救援振灾工作等）
student aid=financial aid 助学金，给于学生的援助。
What food item comes in its own biodegradable container, requires no cooking and tastes delicious? Bananas, of course! For these reasons and many more, bananas, the world’s most popular fruit, have become known as “the perfect fruit.”
Nature’s best
Bananas, which contain large amounts of vitamins and minerals needed by the body, represent one of nature’s healthiest food choices. In fact, bananas have three times the amount of vitamins A and C found in apples. The tasty fruit also contains five times more protein than an apple. But the health benefits don't stop there. Bananas are packed with potassium, a mineral crucial to helping human hearts function correctly. Research also confirms that potassium helps control high blood pressure. A medical college in India found that eating two bananas a day lowered one's blood pressure by 10 percent in one week!
This important mineral also aids in muscle movement and digestion and is good for the kidneys. It can also help maintain bone strength. All this can be gained through one little fruit-the banana!
Aids the body
Bananas also contain lots of vitamin B6, a very beneficial vitamin for humans. Among its many advantages, B6 assists the blood in carrying oxygen throughout the body. Without enough of this essential vitamin, the body can develop a condition called anemia. As one of the largest natural sources of B6, bananas provide approximately 20 percent of the recommended daily amount.
This delicious fruit also represents an excellent source of fiber; therefore, many doctors recommend it children with stomach problems.
Soothes the mind
Bananas provide not only physical benefits but also mental and emotional benefitsw. Bananas contain tryptophan, a well-known compond in foods that helps lift our mood. Also because tryptophan aids in sleep, eating a banana before bed helps us rest better.
Shines your shoes?
The next time you want to polish your shoes, reach for a banana skin. SOme people insist that the inside of a banana peel produces a great shine on your shoes! Whether you want a healthy snack or a cheap shoeshine, look no further than nature's perfect fruit-the banana!
More Infomation
Some unusual uses for bananas:
* Make a face mask by mashing a banana into a smooth paste and apply it to your face. This will leave your face looking and feeling smooth.
* Remove dust from your houseplants by wiping down each leaf with the inside of a banana peel.
*Rub a mosquito bite with the inside of a banana peel to stop the itching.
Grammar
But the health benefits don't stop there.
don't stop there=That's not all the health benefits。
*I overslept, so I missed my bus. And when I finally got to work, I was late for a meeting. But my problems didn't stop there.
*She is the founder of Studio Classroom and is the first foreigner to receive the Confusious Special Teacher Award, but her accomplishments don't stop there.
Vocabulary
biodegradable-生物可自然分解的。bio-生物degradable-可自然分解的。
These plastic bags are biodegradable.
The company insists on using biodegradable packaging.
The milk containers were eco-friendly.环保的
container-容器，货柜 contain-容纳，包含。
The liquid is stored in an air-tight container.密封的容器
a container ship-货柜船
protein-蛋白质Athletes need diets that are high in protein。
Tofu is a good source of protein and can be a healthy replacement for meat.
mineral-矿物质make by nature。
recommended (adj)-建议的，被推荐的recommand- 推荐
*Don't ever exceed the recommended dose of medicine.
*Mark is a highly recommeded lawyer.
fiber- 纤维（各类的）
*This raincoat is made with artificial fibers.
*The police found good evidence left in some fiber at the crime scene.
dietary fiber- 膳食纤维
*Whole-weat bread provides more dietary fiber than white bread.
polish-腊(n)maxy substance. (v)shining shoes. 磨光，擦亮。润饰，使经验。
*Alice took a lot of time polishing her speech 润饰
Chat Room
pack 充满，拥挤，塞满的意思 put large amount of something.
pack with suitcase-装箱
packed (adj)-挤满了，塞满了，拥挤的
pack into-they pack into a small car.挤进，挤上
pack in (v)-挤进一个地方，把那塞暴。
pack on-add or gain
packed on some pound 加了数磅
--------------------
aid-帮助，援助，
rescue aid救援=rescue relief 救援（救援工作，救援振灾工作等）
student aid=financial aid 助学金，给于学生的援助。
Monday, February 8, 2010
Tsai Erh-Ping - an Artist of Life
生活藝術家This artist brings nature and art together
This artist’s love of nature shows in his jewelry and his homes by Linda Ludwig
The vibrant colors of the lizard catch your eye as it seems to wiggle and crawl on the lady’s sweater. Startled, you look closer and discover that you aren’t looking at a real lizard at all. You’re looking at a fanciful brooch made of ceramic, wire and precious stones. You have just been introduced to one of the fanciful creations of Tsai Erh-Ping (蔡爾平), a remarkable artist who draws his inspiration from creatures of nature.
Childhood influences
Insects and lizards like this excited Tsai Erh-Ping’s imagination in his youth and continue to excite him today. As a child growing up in the 1950s in rural Beigang (北港) in southern Taiwan, Tsai played in the fields surrounding his home. He chased geckos and decorated them with stripes or dots of paint .
His father, a medical doctor and artist in his own right, influenced his son a great deal. In fact, one of his father's quotes has become Tsai's theme in life: "Live in nature(where), live on nature(take advantage for what the nature provide for you), live for nature.(protect nature)" And that is exactly what Tsai does.
As a young man, Tsai attended the National Taiwan College of Arts. There he met Cynthia Chuang，who became his wife and artistic partner. In his early 30s, Tsai moved with Chuang to New York. There they both studied at Parsons School of Design and received graduate degrees in sculpture.
Seeking to understand
Wanting to experience America, the couple traveled throughout the U.S., visiting national parks, major cities and museums. These experiences greatly impacted their artistic views. As these views developed, the couple became increasingly attracted to jewelry as a way to express themselves.
Contemplating what elements to select for his work from the two cultures he lived in was difficult. But gradually Tsai came to feel their meeting point was nature. Childhood memories of playing in the fields surfaced and sparked nature-based creations.
Always innovative, Tsai refined the traditional methods used to make ceramics so that he could create more intricate designs. In 1993, he won the Outstanding American Artist Award. In addition, Tsai and Chuang's jewelry has been shown at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., as well as many other museums.
Creativity at home
Tsai's creativity doesn't stop with jewelry but extends into every area of his life including the outdoors. Years ago, Tsai and Chuang purchased some barren land on long Island, New York. There they built a home and transformed the land into a paradise. The trees, the shrubs, the flowers and even the rocks exhibit the creativity of these artists.
Reflecting their love for nature, the couple runs a kind of plant hospital in their house. Carefully examining plants and bushes cast aside in the surrounding area. Tasi and Chuang decide which ones can be saved. When given TLC, the plants flourish and are planted in the garden.
Tsai's backyard in Beigang was the inspiration for this long island garden. His family cultivated thousands of plants and trees on their land, so since childhood, Tsai has loved and understood them. All of this came full circle when he returned to Beigang. All of this came full circle when he returned to Beigang and redecorated one of his homes and created a tropical garden.
For Tsai Erh-Ping, who sees complex beauty in the littlest elements of nature, life is art and art is life!
Information
It's very easy to over-water a cactus, and if there's not enough drainage, a cactus can start to rot very quickly. But there are actually many other kinds of cacti that thrive naturally in very wet environments, like rain forests. One example of a water-loving cactus is the "jungle cactus" which is able to exist in a wet environment for a very long time.
Grammar
His father, a medical doctor and artist in his own right, influenced his son a great deal.
in his won right- in his own ability-through his own skill or qualification and accomplish by his own ability.
Paula is a successful businesswoman in her own right rather than through her billionaire father's connections.
Although John's mother was a celebrity, John is a singer in his own right.
Vocabulary
vibrant-鲜明的，明亮的，活泼有生气的，精力充沛的full of life and energy, bright.
*The vibrant floral arrangement lightens up the hall.装饰色彩鲜艳的花使大厅明亮起来
*Helen is a vibrant girl who's full of energy.
*New York is a vibrant city. 有生命力的城市。
wiggle-move quickly in small movement. 摆动，扭动
*The boy splashed water and wiggled his toes in the creek.
strips-线条，条纹，军人的官阶，几条槓.
*The red and white stripes on this shirt remind me of the American flag.
*The black and white stripes found on zebras can fool their predators.
*He has three strips on his uniform. 他的军阶是三条杠
brooch-胸针“oo" 在此发长母音"o"的音
inspiration-idea
draw-painting but here is refer to "getting his idea from nature" "obtain, get"
rural-away from city. urban is mean city.
gecko-mini size of lizard.
sculpture-雕像curve or form someone or something.
impact-make contact, something strongly hit someone's feeling, to hit something with forth and cause affects.影响,冲击. 当(v)发音在第二节
*The terrible car accident impacted Rita greatly. She still refuses to drive today.
*The new tax law made a tremendous impact on small businesses.
contemplating- thinking about something at a short moment. 思量，仔细考虑，深思。
*Billy contemplated the possibility of going back to college.
*I'm contemplating taking a trip to Europe.
*Hank's boss told him to stop contemplating and act now.
refine-使精进，改善，改进 make it better and better. re-重复的意思
*The band is constantly refining their skills.
*The report needs to be refined before you turn it in.
intricate- a lot of detail.
Smithsonian- is a very famous museum in U.S.A. with quality art articles.
cast aside-抛弃，丢弃 cast-扔，丢
*She cast aside all his nerves and performed the way he wanted to. 紧张
*She cast aside all her old friends after she became successful.
cultivate- 培养，栽种planting, promoting or increasing it's life. cult-有耕种的意思
*The farmers in this area cultivate corn and wheat.
*The land seems too barren to cultivate anything.栽种
*Her interest in music was cultivated at an early age.培养
come full circle (idiom)-back to the original point，end in the place where is began.回到原点。circle-圈圈
*After dropping out of school, Jack finally came full circle one year later and started his studies again.
barren-The land is no life, the dirt or land grow nothing, can't bring life to something.光秃秃，荒芜。
Chat Room
fanciful/fancy:
fanciful-creative, very creativity.很有创意的，很有想象力的
fancy-delicacy and expensive 昂贵而精致的。
fancy in Europe, fancy has "like, delight" means
Do you fancy something?=Do you like something?
brooch / broach提出-二者发音相同 He broach an idea during the meeting.
------------------------
innovative-有创意，创新的，革新的。creative in the original.- it breaks new ground.
break new ground-revolutionary
breaking the ground to build something-construction
groundbreakers-pioneer.革新者，创始者，原创者
an innovative artist-有创意的艺术家。
an innovative tool-新推出的工具
------------------------
life is art, art is life
Life imitating art, it should be "Art imitating life".生活摹仿艺术，原本是艺术摹仿人生
Art here is refer to broad area such as book, flower, movie, tree, TV program.
A movie talking about a bicycle story, people are follow that trend love to ride bicycle, or a singing program on air, and people dream to be a singer. This is we call "life imitating art"
This artist’s love of nature shows in his jewelry and his homes by Linda Ludwig
The vibrant colors of the lizard catch your eye as it seems to wiggle and crawl on the lady’s sweater. Startled, you look closer and discover that you aren’t looking at a real lizard at all. You’re looking at a fanciful brooch made of ceramic, wire and precious stones. You have just been introduced to one of the fanciful creations of Tsai Erh-Ping (蔡爾平), a remarkable artist who draws his inspiration from creatures of nature.
Childhood influences
Insects and lizards like this excited Tsai Erh-Ping’s imagination in his youth and continue to excite him today. As a child growing up in the 1950s in rural Beigang (北港) in southern Taiwan, Tsai played in the fields surrounding his home. He chased geckos and decorated them with stripes or dots of paint .
His father, a medical doctor and artist in his own right, influenced his son a great deal. In fact, one of his father's quotes has become Tsai's theme in life: "Live in nature(where), live on nature(take advantage for what the nature provide for you), live for nature.(protect nature)" And that is exactly what Tsai does.
As a young man, Tsai attended the National Taiwan College of Arts. There he met Cynthia Chuang，who became his wife and artistic partner. In his early 30s, Tsai moved with Chuang to New York. There they both studied at Parsons School of Design and received graduate degrees in sculpture.
Seeking to understand
Wanting to experience America, the couple traveled throughout the U.S., visiting national parks, major cities and museums. These experiences greatly impacted their artistic views. As these views developed, the couple became increasingly attracted to jewelry as a way to express themselves.
Contemplating what elements to select for his work from the two cultures he lived in was difficult. But gradually Tsai came to feel their meeting point was nature. Childhood memories of playing in the fields surfaced and sparked nature-based creations.
Always innovative, Tsai refined the traditional methods used to make ceramics so that he could create more intricate designs. In 1993, he won the Outstanding American Artist Award. In addition, Tsai and Chuang's jewelry has been shown at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., as well as many other museums.
Creativity at home
Tsai's creativity doesn't stop with jewelry but extends into every area of his life including the outdoors. Years ago, Tsai and Chuang purchased some barren land on long Island, New York. There they built a home and transformed the land into a paradise. The trees, the shrubs, the flowers and even the rocks exhibit the creativity of these artists.
Reflecting their love for nature, the couple runs a kind of plant hospital in their house. Carefully examining plants and bushes cast aside in the surrounding area. Tasi and Chuang decide which ones can be saved. When given TLC, the plants flourish and are planted in the garden.
Tsai's backyard in Beigang was the inspiration for this long island garden. His family cultivated thousands of plants and trees on their land, so since childhood, Tsai has loved and understood them. All of this came full circle when he returned to Beigang. All of this came full circle when he returned to Beigang and redecorated one of his homes and created a tropical garden.
For Tsai Erh-Ping, who sees complex beauty in the littlest elements of nature, life is art and art is life!
Information
It's very easy to over-water a cactus, and if there's not enough drainage, a cactus can start to rot very quickly. But there are actually many other kinds of cacti that thrive naturally in very wet environments, like rain forests. One example of a water-loving cactus is the "jungle cactus" which is able to exist in a wet environment for a very long time.
Grammar
His father, a medical doctor and artist in his own right, influenced his son a great deal.
in his won right- in his own ability-through his own skill or qualification and accomplish by his own ability.
Paula is a successful businesswoman in her own right rather than through her billionaire father's connections.
Although John's mother was a celebrity, John is a singer in his own right.
Vocabulary
vibrant-鲜明的，明亮的，活泼有生气的，精力充沛的full of life and energy, bright.
*The vibrant floral arrangement lightens up the hall.装饰色彩鲜艳的花使大厅明亮起来
*Helen is a vibrant girl who's full of energy.
*New York is a vibrant city. 有生命力的城市。
wiggle-move quickly in small movement. 摆动，扭动
*The boy splashed water and wiggled his toes in the creek.
strips-线条，条纹，军人的官阶，几条槓.
*The red and white stripes on this shirt remind me of the American flag.
*The black and white stripes found on zebras can fool their predators.
*He has three strips on his uniform. 他的军阶是三条杠
brooch-胸针“oo" 在此发长母音"o"的音
inspiration-idea
draw-painting but here is refer to "getting his idea from nature" "obtain, get"
rural-away from city. urban is mean city.
gecko-mini size of lizard.
sculpture-雕像curve or form someone or something.
impact-make contact, something strongly hit someone's feeling, to hit something with forth and cause affects.影响,冲击. 当(v)发音在第二节
*The terrible car accident impacted Rita greatly. She still refuses to drive today.
*The new tax law made a tremendous impact on small businesses.
contemplating- thinking about something at a short moment. 思量，仔细考虑，深思。
*Billy contemplated the possibility of going back to college.
*I'm contemplating taking a trip to Europe.
*Hank's boss told him to stop contemplating and act now.
refine-使精进，改善，改进 make it better and better. re-重复的意思
*The band is constantly refining their skills.
*The report needs to be refined before you turn it in.
intricate- a lot of detail.
Smithsonian- is a very famous museum in U.S.A. with quality art articles.
cast aside-抛弃，丢弃 cast-扔，丢
*She cast aside all his nerves and performed the way he wanted to. 紧张
*She cast aside all her old friends after she became successful.
cultivate- 培养，栽种planting, promoting or increasing it's life. cult-有耕种的意思
*The farmers in this area cultivate corn and wheat.
*The land seems too barren to cultivate anything.栽种
*Her interest in music was cultivated at an early age.培养
come full circle (idiom)-back to the original point，end in the place where is began.回到原点。circle-圈圈
*After dropping out of school, Jack finally came full circle one year later and started his studies again.
barren-The land is no life, the dirt or land grow nothing, can't bring life to something.光秃秃，荒芜。
Chat Room
fanciful/fancy:
fanciful-creative, very creativity.很有创意的，很有想象力的
fancy-delicacy and expensive 昂贵而精致的。
fancy in Europe, fancy has "like, delight" means
Do you fancy something?=Do you like something?
brooch / broach提出-二者发音相同 He broach an idea during the meeting.
------------------------
innovative-有创意，创新的，革新的。creative in the original.- it breaks new ground.
break new ground-revolutionary
breaking the ground to build something-construction
groundbreakers-pioneer.革新者，创始者，原创者
an innovative artist-有创意的艺术家。
an innovative tool-新推出的工具
------------------------
life is art, art is life
Life imitating art, it should be "Art imitating life".生活摹仿艺术，原本是艺术摹仿人生
Art here is refer to broad area such as book, flower, movie, tree, TV program.
A movie talking about a bicycle story, people are follow that trend love to ride bicycle, or a singing program on air, and people dream to be a singer. This is we call "life imitating art"
Friday, February 5, 2010
20 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Your Body and Health - Part 1
讓你更健康的小道消息：第一部 Fascinating facts on nutrition, exercise and more by permission from Health.com
In the spirit of those addictive, you-know-you’re-reading-them-even-though-you-wish-you-weren’t Facebook notes everywhere, Health.com presents its list of 20 random things you might not know about the human body, nutrition and exercise, sickness and health. Go ahead: Pass it on to your friends.
1. Dogs can smell cancer and low blood sugar. The Pine Street Foundation, a cancer-education and research center in Calif. published a study showing it was possible to train dogs to identify, based on breath samples, which patients had lung and breast cancer. In diabetics, the presence of ketones — substances made by the body during the metabolic process — can be smelled in urine and on the breath when blood sugars are high. Dogs can pick up on other smells that humans can’t when glucose levels drop.
2. Researchers at Cornell University found that people who pass through an entryway near the kitchen tend to eat 15 percent more than those who use the front door.
3. Four out of five doctors in the U.K. don't work out enough. Heavy workloads, lack of time and poor motivation contributed to the lack of exercise.
4. You can't get a tan from your computer screen. The Computer Tan Web site was created as a hoax to raise awareness about skin cancer.
5. Baking soda can whiten teeth, and garlic can help treat athlete's foot.
6. Smokers are four times as likely to report feeling unrested after a night's sleep than nonsmokers. Smokers often experience withdrawal symptoms at night, causing periods of restlessness and waking. Smokers were also 1.69 times likely to develop hearing loss than non-smokers, as smoking may affect antioxidative mechanisms or the blood vessels that feed the auditory system.
7. Eating fruits and vegetables may help the human body make its own aspirin.
Findings from the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry indicate that study participants who received benzoic acid, a natural substance in fruits and vegetables, could make their own salicylic acid. This is the key component that gives aspirin its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
8. Your kitchen sink is dirtier than your bathroom. Bacteria colonies with a total population exceeding 50 million can live on a single dirty sponge. And just think-that's what you use to wipe down countertops, forks and drinking glasses.
9. You're more likely to have a heart attack on a Monday, or up to three days after you've been diagnosed with the flu or a respiratory tract infection. The risk of dying from a heart attack increases by a third during outbreaks of the flu and related respiratory diseases. This was found by researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.
10. Vitamins don't seem to help older women guard against cancer or heart disease.
Grammar
The Computer Tan Web site was created as a hoax to raise awareness about skin cancer.
to raise awareness = to bring attention to
These community events raise awareness about HIV prevention.
Many celebrities are trying to raise awareness of children's issues.
Vocabulary
addictive-上瘾 make you have to have something.
These addictive online games not only cost money but they also wasted your precious time.
addictive drugs-嗑药
addicted-Jason has been addicted 上瘾to alcohol since he was young.
metabolic-新陈代谢
Exercising can increase your metabolic rate and help you burn calories quickly.
hoax-布局，玩笑，恶作剧。
The report of a fire at the school turned out to be a hoax.一场恶作剧
*He made a hoax call pretending to be the boss.开了个玩笑。
*I was hoaxed into believing his lies.被糊弄了
restlessness-unrest, body didn't get enough rest or sleep.
withdrawal symptoms- unpleasant, painful feeling, experience of lack of something. it cause by something he does'nt have. Without it he gets some painful symptoms.
auditory system-having to do with your ears and hearing 听觉的，耳朵的系统。
aud-与耳朵听力有关的
*He will have surgery next week to repair his auditory nerve.
antioxidative-anti-oxidant.
anti-inflammation-消炎
diagnose (n)-医生诊断报告 (v)-医生诊断
*The doctor made an initial diagnosis after analyzing the test results.
*So patient was diagnosed with severe depression.
*She was diagnosed with skin cancer last year.
outbreak-爆发，战争得爆发，或疫情的发生（扩散)，
*The outbreak of war caused chaos in the country.
*The outbreak of this highly infectious disease claimed many lives.
glucose-葡萄糖
athlete's foot-feet has fungus and itchy俗称的香港脚
Facebook notes-when friend sent to other friend note, questions or survey.
Chat Room
properties-(property)Real Estate,财产，房地产 here refer to special capability or power, it means its character.属性，特性。
aspirin has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. 阿司匹林有消炎止痛的特性或功能。
aspirin has special capability or power in anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving.
aspirin-在英美，阿司匹林非常普遍，已不再是注册商标，所以用小写, Aspirin-在德国或其他国家,阿司匹林还是公司的注册商标。还是要大写。
property of mettle-金属的特性。
--------------
work out (v)-Their marriage don't work out. This idea does not work out.
work out (n)-three meanings :1. exercise, 2. accomplish something, 3. out come.
1. we need to work out a solution to the problem.-解决一个问题
2. The situation is worked out-问题获得解决，产生结果。
3. Didn't work out-失败了。行不通。
Part 2 will be posted in March
In the spirit of those addictive, you-know-you’re-reading-them-even-though-you-wish-you-weren’t Facebook notes everywhere, Health.com presents its list of 20 random things you might not know about the human body, nutrition and exercise, sickness and health. Go ahead: Pass it on to your friends.
1. Dogs can smell cancer and low blood sugar. The Pine Street Foundation, a cancer-education and research center in Calif. published a study showing it was possible to train dogs to identify, based on breath samples, which patients had lung and breast cancer. In diabetics, the presence of ketones — substances made by the body during the metabolic process — can be smelled in urine and on the breath when blood sugars are high. Dogs can pick up on other smells that humans can’t when glucose levels drop.
2. Researchers at Cornell University found that people who pass through an entryway near the kitchen tend to eat 15 percent more than those who use the front door.
3. Four out of five doctors in the U.K. don't work out enough. Heavy workloads, lack of time and poor motivation contributed to the lack of exercise.
4. You can't get a tan from your computer screen. The Computer Tan Web site was created as a hoax to raise awareness about skin cancer.
5. Baking soda can whiten teeth, and garlic can help treat athlete's foot.
6. Smokers are four times as likely to report feeling unrested after a night's sleep than nonsmokers. Smokers often experience withdrawal symptoms at night, causing periods of restlessness and waking. Smokers were also 1.69 times likely to develop hearing loss than non-smokers, as smoking may affect antioxidative mechanisms or the blood vessels that feed the auditory system.
7. Eating fruits and vegetables may help the human body make its own aspirin.
Findings from the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry indicate that study participants who received benzoic acid, a natural substance in fruits and vegetables, could make their own salicylic acid. This is the key component that gives aspirin its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
8. Your kitchen sink is dirtier than your bathroom. Bacteria colonies with a total population exceeding 50 million can live on a single dirty sponge. And just think-that's what you use to wipe down countertops, forks and drinking glasses.
9. You're more likely to have a heart attack on a Monday, or up to three days after you've been diagnosed with the flu or a respiratory tract infection. The risk of dying from a heart attack increases by a third during outbreaks of the flu and related respiratory diseases. This was found by researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.
10. Vitamins don't seem to help older women guard against cancer or heart disease.
Grammar
The Computer Tan Web site was created as a hoax to raise awareness about skin cancer.
to raise awareness = to bring attention to
These community events raise awareness about HIV prevention.
Many celebrities are trying to raise awareness of children's issues.
Vocabulary
addictive-上瘾 make you have to have something.
These addictive online games not only cost money but they also wasted your precious time.
addictive drugs-嗑药
addicted-Jason has been addicted 上瘾to alcohol since he was young.
metabolic-新陈代谢
Exercising can increase your metabolic rate and help you burn calories quickly.
hoax-布局，玩笑，恶作剧。
The report of a fire at the school turned out to be a hoax.一场恶作剧
*He made a hoax call pretending to be the boss.开了个玩笑。
*I was hoaxed into believing his lies.被糊弄了
restlessness-unrest, body didn't get enough rest or sleep.
withdrawal symptoms- unpleasant, painful feeling, experience of lack of something. it cause by something he does'nt have. Without it he gets some painful symptoms.
auditory system-having to do with your ears and hearing 听觉的，耳朵的系统。
aud-与耳朵听力有关的
*He will have surgery next week to repair his auditory nerve.
antioxidative-anti-oxidant.
anti-inflammation-消炎
diagnose (n)-医生诊断报告 (v)-医生诊断
*The doctor made an initial diagnosis after analyzing the test results.
*So patient was diagnosed with severe depression.
*She was diagnosed with skin cancer last year.
outbreak-爆发，战争得爆发，或疫情的发生（扩散)，
*The outbreak of war caused chaos in the country.
*The outbreak of this highly infectious disease claimed many lives.
glucose-葡萄糖
athlete's foot-feet has fungus and itchy俗称的香港脚
Facebook notes-when friend sent to other friend note, questions or survey.
Chat Room
properties-(property)Real Estate,财产，房地产 here refer to special capability or power, it means its character.属性，特性。
aspirin has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. 阿司匹林有消炎止痛的特性或功能。
aspirin has special capability or power in anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving.
aspirin-在英美，阿司匹林非常普遍，已不再是注册商标，所以用小写, Aspirin-在德国或其他国家,阿司匹林还是公司的注册商标。还是要大写。
property of mettle-金属的特性。
--------------
work out (v)-Their marriage don't work out. This idea does not work out.
work out (n)-three meanings :1. exercise, 2. accomplish something, 3. out come.
1. we need to work out a solution to the problem.-解决一个问题
2. The situation is worked out-问题获得解决，产生结果。
3. Didn't work out-失败了。行不通。
Part 2 will be posted in March
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
A Trip to the Tailor
裁縫達人A tailor shares the secrets of his trade by Simon Stopps
SC: How does one become a tailor?
JL: In the past, becoming a tailor meant completing an apprenticeship with an experienced tailor. I apprenticed with a cutter from Shanghai for six years. Now, there is a system of tests and licenses for tailors.
SC: What questions should people ask a tailor when they are having clothes made?
JL: It depends who the person is. If they are a student, they might want to ask about price. If that is less of a concern, they might ask questions about style, material and quality.
SC: What's the difference between a store-bought suit and a tailor-made suit?
JL: There are a lot of differences. You see, there are many kinds of body types. During fittings, a tailor figures out how to make the suit fit you perfectly, so you feel comfortable all over. They also leave extra material so the suit can be adjusted later if you gain or lose weight. You don't do a fitting when you buy a store-bought suit. They just take your measurements and then select the pre-made suit that is closest to your size. Then you try it on and see if you like it. That's OK if you are a standard size. But if you aren't, you will always have problems with ready-made suits.
SC: Are there differences in quality?
Chat room
custom-made- made-to-order, 定制的made according to the customer requested.
pre-made=ready-to-wear=off-the-rack,预制的，现成的，从架子上拿下来就可穿的， rack-架子。
tailor-made=裁缝师傅made only with cloth, something to do with clothing only.
custom-made=定制的，量身打造的，照顾客要求去制作的，不限于衣服。can be made with all kinds of materials, for car, ship, table, chair, sofa, house....
----------------
SC: How does one become a tailor?
JL: In the past, becoming a tailor meant completing an apprenticeship with an experienced tailor. I apprenticed with a cutter from Shanghai for six years. Now, there is a system of tests and licenses for tailors.
SC: What questions should people ask a tailor when they are having clothes made?
JL: It depends who the person is. If they are a student, they might want to ask about price. If that is less of a concern, they might ask questions about style, material and quality.
SC: What's the difference between a store-bought suit and a tailor-made suit?
JL: There are a lot of differences. You see, there are many kinds of body types. During fittings, a tailor figures out how to make the suit fit you perfectly, so you feel comfortable all over. They also leave extra material so the suit can be adjusted later if you gain or lose weight. You don't do a fitting when you buy a store-bought suit. They just take your measurements and then select the pre-made suit that is closest to your size. Then you try it on and see if you like it. That's OK if you are a standard size. But if you aren't, you will always have problems with ready-made suits.
SC: Are there differences in quality?
JL: There are often big differences in the quality of material. Tailors tend to use higher quality materials like cashmere, and they line the suits with silk. We also use inserts that are made out of horsehair. Horsehair inserts help the suit keep its shape and avoid wrinkles.
Ready-made suits will often use lower quality materials like polyester/wool blends. They also use paper linings and will lose their shape if they get wet. Another big difference is that ready-made suits are machine-made. They are both cut and sewn by machine. Tailor-made suits are cut and sewn by hand.
SC: There are many tailors, so how do you know which ones are good and which aren't?
JL: You have to try and see; you can't just trust a shop that says it is good. If a tailor is good, people will introduce their friends to the shop. Their business will grow by word of mouth.
SC: Do you have any advice for our students?
JL: Yes, Choosing a tailor will save you a lot of trouble. If you go to a tailor, you know your suit will fit you well. And if it is a good suit, it will last you a long time.
More Information
Here's one more question for our expert:
Q: How has the tailoring business changed over the forty years you've been a tailor?
A: The biggest thing is the quality of the cloth. Years ago we used a lot of polyester because it wears well and doesn't wrinkle. But it doesn't breathe and can be uncomfortable. Now the quality of material has improved a lot.
Grammar
If that is less of a concern, they might ask questions about style, material and quality.
less of a concern-not something to worry about.
If that is not something to worry about, they might ask questions about style, material and quality.
With the convenience of cell phone technology, being unreachable is less of a concern for most people these days.
Not being able to shower is less of a concern for Kathy than for Susan (shower for Susan is concerned).
Vocabulary
apprentice(v)- is a student or a learner who studies under someone to learn a particular skills.
apprenticeship- is a time period, during the period of time to learn that skill.
*Greg apprenticed with his uncle, who was a talented carpenter.
*He worked for 2 years as Trump's apprentice(n).
Pre-made- These pre-made curtains are a lot cheaper than custom-made ones.
*There are many pre-made e-cards for you to choose from at this website.
fitting(n)- fitting (v)-
We'll start the play's costume fittings(n) next week.
tailor-a person who is making or fixing clothing by hands.
line-此不是指“排队”此是指“给衣服做襯裡。或是里面扑满了东西。
If that is less of a concern, they might ask questions about style, material and quality.
less of a concern-not something to worry about.
If that is not something to worry about, they might ask questions about style, material and quality.
With the convenience of cell phone technology, being unreachable is less of a concern for most people these days.
Not being able to shower is less of a concern for Kathy than for Susan (shower for Susan is concerned).
Vocabulary
apprentice(v)- is a student or a learner who studies under someone to learn a particular skills.
apprenticeship- is a time period, during the period of time to learn that skill.
*Greg apprenticed with his uncle, who was a talented carpenter.
*He worked for 2 years as Trump's apprentice(n).
Pre-made- These pre-made curtains are a lot cheaper than custom-made ones.
*There are many pre-made e-cards for you to choose from at this website.
fitting(n)- fitting (v)-
We'll start the play's costume fittings(n) next week.
tailor-a person who is making or fixing clothing by hands.
line-此不是指“排队”此是指“给衣服做襯裡。或是里面扑满了东西。
* The tailor lined the jacket with silk.
*The expensive coat was lined with fur.
*The fitting-room was lined with wall-to-wall mirrors.装满了
blend- mixed, mix with something, not pure.混纺，混合物，（v）混合
*The sheet's fabric is a blend of linen and cotton.
*His favorite blend of coffee is scarcely found in Asia.
*A delightful blend of oriental fragrance.
by word of mouth-口耳相传
*Rumors of Shawn being fired spread quickly throughout the company by word of mouth.
*She was informed by word of mouth. 透过口头的传达被通知
cashmere-very fine and soft wool
silk- a material, very soft , very thin but very strong insert (v)-putting something into something else. (n)- a piece of something underneath.襯墊
Chat room
custom-made- made-to-order, 定制的made according to the customer requested.
pre-made=ready-to-wear=off-the-rack,预制的，现成的，从架子上拿下来就可穿的， rack-架子。
tailor-made=裁缝师傅made only with cloth, something to do with clothing only.
custom-made=定制的，量身打造的，照顾客要求去制作的，不限于衣服。can be made with all kinds of materials, for car, ship, table, chair, sofa, house....
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suits-top jacket and pants together we call suits.西装
If a person is wearing only a top of suits, the pants is not match with top in color, material..., we say that he wear a suit jacket, or jacket.--you can call all the top outfit a jacket, including formal suits' top.
"suits" call a group of people is looking down them, most time use on the high management, means those people who wear suits but making merciless decisions.
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needle phrase-
"needle someone"-means bother someone.
stop needle someone- means stop bothering someone.
You are needling me, stop needle me.
thread phrase-
hanging by a thread-you are berry able to do something, you are almost giving up on something. 快撑不住了
stitch phrase-
a stitch in time save nine- means small tear repair it right away before gets worse.
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