Art's Journey

Art Sale

2009-11-20T18:16:00.003+07:00

Dear Friends,

I am selling some stuff because I am going home. Please let me know if you are interested by calling me or texting me or emailing me at 808 3541816. Thank you!

1. Surf Board 7"4': This is a very good board.cv

2009-05-27T06:56:00.003+07:00

In a blog, you can use this fancy "What you see is what you get" editor. or you can hand-code the HTML yourself. Most users prefer the WYSIWYG editor. but once you've taked IT240, you don't need to fear the HTML editor ever again!

Here's a picture of Bro.Draper's family in 2007:

Kevin Schlag Lecture

2009-05-11T08:37:00.002+07:00

Kevin Schlag came to speak in our IT240 class about his career in Enterprise Information System Department. He supervises the school website and make sure it is up to date and well organized. It is very interesting to me that all the school website we see now is done with DreamWeaver program. Brother Schlag said, "Why do we have to spend a lot of time learning HTML, if we have wonderful and powerful tools out there to help create great websites?" I think he is right at some point. But I think you can never go wrong learning the basic and foundation of anything, including the language of HTML. I know for the fact that this knowlege will benefit me in the future. In fact, it has benefited me since I am the webmaster of @RTIMOS Website.

What amazed me the most is actually the history of BYU-Hawaii website. It was first created by college students years ago. Now, maintaining the website is a job. I like the fact that the school is planning a new layout for the school website based on the audience. I think that is very smart of them to do so. I remember when I first got to BYUH website, I was kinda lost a little bit at first, eventhough the website is divided into different groups of audience. I still think they could have done a better job, which they are doing right now.

In short, I really enjoy Kevin Schlag's lecture, however, I am not sure if Brother Draper would like what he had to say about learning the "old school" HTML language to create a web page ;)

Cary Countryman's Lecture

2009-05-08T07:13:00.001+07:00

Today Dr.Countryman came to give us a lecture on how to create an effective website, because our beloved teacher Brother Draper decided to go on a vacation in the Mormon Land. Surprisingly, I missed him. Anyway, I learned a lot from Dr.Countryman! Especially, since I am a webmaster for @RTIMOS Productions.

Dr.Countryman gave many examples of both effective and ineffective websites. One of the things which I really like is that the Web site should be simple and avoid using too many complex multimedia features or technology tricks. I tend to do that, putting a lot of multimedia features on my web site, which look cool to me; but not in others' view. However, having "Magic" (as used by Dr.Countryman) on the web site will add a lot more to audience's experience. So, I went home and added the countdown clock on @RTIMOS web site, to remind people about the upcoming benefit concert in Honolulu.

I have noticed that my web site is quite slow. Dr.Countryman offered a possible solution indirectly through his lecture that using pictures under 40kb in size and GIF format can make the web site load faster; and to keep text simple and to a minimum. So, I have been adjusting my images on the website and try to make it look clean and simple, yet attractive.

Another important aspect to consider when making a web site is the targeted audience. Dr.Countryman suggested that the web site will be more effective if it's divided up by customer segments. For example, it would be wise for you to know how Japanese people read or navigate the website, because according to the way they read they do from right to left. I thought that was very interesting and true.

These are just a few examples of how to make an effective website from Dr. Countryman. I was very excited to listen to him. So, I guess having Brother... oh no... Dr. Draper away for a week isn't so bad after all. :)

@RTIMOS Part 1

2009-04-10T17:37:00.005+07:00

I remember exactly a year ago in spring taking a class "Leadership Principles" from Dr.Hannonen. I signed up for the class because I gave up on my "Music" major. I wanted to take IDS Major instead so I can learn to do business while doing something that I love... pretty much anything involved with music. This class became the start of something I have dreamed of doing. One of the requirements for the class was to organize a personal project that had to do with Leadership Principles. Students had freedom to explore and do anything they wanted to do to show, share, or apply the things we learned in the class for their personal projects; Not knowing it was just a beginning of an exciting and rewarding journey.

I had a dream that I wanted to have my own "recital". I thought it was a good opportunity to do something that Ihad been wanting to do. I planned the recital to teach the principles of leadership through music. I named my recital "@RTIMOS- Leadership Through Music", just because I did not want my recital to sound chessy - Art Musical Recital. "No way", I told my self assigning the new name to it. I actually got this name from my friends in Thailand who called me "Artimos" because my name's Art. They were missionaries in Thailand. Why "@"? No real answer. I used it because I wanted to think outside the box. And I thought it would give people something to think about.

I was excited, nervous, and thrilled to have my own recital. I invited my friends to join me. I had already had a few songs composed for my music theory class, and was very excited to perform them. I also took vocal lessons from Professor Belnap, and it was a perfect opportunity to showcase things that I learned from him. This recital was goingt o be amazing. I was wrong.

I started applying leadership principles as I prepared for @RTIMOS recital. I booked auditorium, but my project was not recognized by the school of business, and they would not sponsor my event. I learned a lot from this experience. I remember receiving so many emails that I felt overwhelmed. I was shocked when I realize the cost to use the facility for my recital could go up as high as $300. I did not feel hopeless. I was very stressed. But it was a good opportunity to become a leader to myself. Just as I was ready to load money for my recital, I received an email from the director of Auditorium, Steve Crowell, sent to everyone involved in the communications that he would absorb all cost as a gift to me. I couldn't even cry. I felt humbled and grateful for his kindness. I would have my own recital in a couple of days now.

The recital was changed to "Concert" because of the use of lights, multimedia, music, and dance. I invited friends to come. The @RTIMOS - Leadership Through Music was what I had been waiting to do. I was there, and it would not be possible without my friends who helped me tremendously. I come to learn that I couldn't do this alone. I learned to understand the power of music. My friends came to support me. There were probably a little over 40 people came, but that was a lot to me. I went home with an incredible feelings in my heart and soul. I wanted to do again! So, in the fall, I signed up for the "International Organizational Behavior" from Dr.Hannonnen again.

Renew!

2008-10-01T16:49:00.005+07:00

I just decided that I would start writing my blog again. It has been forever since I last updated my blog. I think my last blog was written just right before I came to school! Wow, over a year. That is a long time. Life has been very interesting, challenging, and amazing! It's hard to write everything down, so I am going to upload some new pictures and some videos for the start!

My Fan Kathery wrote on her friend's facebook wall

I met Kathery on Monday night with her friends and got such warm welcome and some screaming. What happened was on the Saturday night before, I was in the BYUH Idol 2008. And I performed "One Jump Ahead" from Aladdin, and much to my surprised, there were so many people who loved the performance. That really humbles me a lot. Kathery is one my good fans. And I am proud to get to know her and her friends in person.

Me in BYUH Idol 2008

This is a YouTube video posted by one of my fans as well. There were so many great singers participated this year!

Recording Christmas Music

2006-12-19T15:41:00.000+07:00

Click on the picture to enlarge

Here are some of the pictures of me and friends recording Music at the

EA (Electronic Arts) Studio

Ben, Me and Jaden

The room we used to record

2006-12-19T15:30:00.000+07:00

These are pictures of the Danville area where I stayed

Right in front of the house

Art Returns

2006-12-19T14:26:00.000+07:00

So here I am, back to the beautiful city of San Francisco. I arrived S.F. on Monday 11th. of December. Then I stayed with a family in Danville for a few days. Oh boys, I got a wicked jet lag for at least four days. I thought I wouldn't be able to make it this far. It's so bad. It was really cool. Because I got to go to the Egyptian musuem in San Jose. Too bad I didn't take a lot of pictures because my memory card was errow.

After staying in Danville, I moved to Redwood City which was the area where I served my mission for about nine months all together (or more). And it sure was good to be able to see people I worked with a year and a half ago. I enjoyed it a lot. I was able to visit a couple of families there and I went to church and met some more. I did have a great time. The weather was so nice. Before I came to the States I was allergic to my own sweat. I know , that's so aweful... after I found out I would be able to come back to SF area for sure I was like ... YESSSSSS!!! It's a little cold but what do you expect right? It's the winter time.

And on Sunday, My friends and I were able to record Christmas music at the EA Studeo (or studio?) It's so cool! It took us a little over good 5 hours to finish the recording. Time flew though! I didn't even realize that it took us that long in that recording room. Thanks Dave Swenson for an amazing talent. He is my all-time favorite sound guy. So that was good.

And now I am at my good friend's house, Keith, right in San Francisco. Just got here today. It's so nice. I missed San Francisco way bad and now I am back. Keith took me to this nice Italian resturant which I don't remember the name anymore but the food was so good.

So, that's the update of my life guys. It's not that interesting but I enjoy it a lot.

Sorry

2006-10-24T15:25:00.000+07:00

Sorry for not posting on here for a long long time. I have been creating my new website. And let me tell you it's a hard work. However, I am still keeping this blog since it is my very first webpage and I have worked on it for over a year already. And it contains more of my thoughts and feelings about things and so on. Now I will have more time to post more topic on this blog and I hope you continue to visit.

But yeah, I am pretty excited about going to the State again. I didn't know that I was so excited until these lasts couple of days because I had so many dreams about California and they were all crazy! Ha ha... Anyway, I will post again soon. In the mean time you can check out my website at http://artimos.com

2006-10-05T16:11:00.000+07:00

Welcome to the United States of America

2006-09-27T15:46:00.000+07:00

Brethren,

I have got a visa to study in the States. Yes, I am pretty happy. I had been pretty nervious about the interview. I still feel nervious every time I think about it for some reason. But so it is official that I will be going to school in Hawaii. Fortunately, the visa allows me to enter the country up to 30 days prior to my school report date. So, I am thinking about visiting the main land and places I have served as a missionary. :) It should be fun and rewarding. I love America.

I have written an email to my friends living in the US and I thought I would share it with you here too. It is called a "Rediculous email" from Art. Enjoy.... and oh, as you read please note that you are invited to invite me too if you wish ha ha ha.

--------- >

Dear Friends,

Well... like what the subject of the letter is. You are about to receive a ridiculous email from me. First of all..... I just want to let you know how happy and grateful to have all of you as friends in my life. My life is rich because of all of you. I have some news for you guys. After a long process of filling out the college application and the scary process of the US visa-interview, I made it after all. I have been accepted by BYU Hawaii and by the US Embassy to study in over there in the winter 2007 Semester. Fortunately, my grandma got the loan for my first year semester.... so I will be fine. Well... no no, don’t' get me wrong I am not asking you to pay for my education. We are not there just yet ;) Anyway, my visa indicates that I can arrive up to 30 days prior to my report date which is on Jan'10... which means I could arrive there as early as the tenth of December.

Now, this is the part that you are looking for guys..... urrrr..... Here is the thing..... I would like to visit the main land before I get stucked on the island for four years but because I am just a little yellow Asian young man, I won't have enough money to stay in the hotel or spend a lot of money on food, So...I am just wondering.... if any of you guys, would love to have this Asian boy for a couple of weeks or days: D...... Gosh, I can't believe I just said that....lol but anyhow I promise that if you have kindness toward me I would help you do some house chore everyday except on Sundays ;). I think that's a great deal to trade with shelter and food. If you are Mormons you would know this favorite hymn it is called "Because I have been given much". I love that hymn and now it has become my # 1 favorite as I write you this email. :)) I wouldn't mind going from "house to house" since I have such a fond memory of "door to door" when I served as a full-time missionary in San Francisco. I will get along great with you guys since I had as many companions as 22 of them. I worked with different kind of people.

So... that's why I email you. Please don't hesitate to let me know if you want to make such a great contribution to this guy. But I would also understand if you are you able to. I hope this email doesn't ruin our relationship. Well.... again, just to remind you... I could come as early as December the tenth. ;) So you don't have to invite me to come before that date. I would love to but I won't be able to!

Love you guys a lot!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hooray!!!!!!!!!!

2006-09-21T17:31:00.000+07:00

PM Taksin Chinawatra

Gen Sonthi - Oh, you are the one who revoked
the constitution!

Democracy Monument guarded by soldiers with guns (Duhh)
"Sorry for any inconvenience"

Revoking the Constitution is a criminal act!

2006-09-20T21:59:00.000+07:00

I was sitting at my desk, chatting with some of my friends over the net and all the sudden there was a message in the chat room "COUP". I was like "stop making such stupid joke." But similar contents kept poping in the room. I decided to find out what's going on by click on the name that posted the message.

Me: So what's going on?
Him: COUP!
Me: I don't get it.
Him: Turn on the TV dude.
Me: Alright.....

So I turned on the television and sure enough, there was nothing but the message saying that there has been the revolution in BKK. I changed to different channels but they were all showing the same thing. Then I realize that this is very serious. From that time on there were "declaration" after declaration from this "Revolutionary" group. I couldn't believe it. It was liking watching a movie! Only was it real. I woke my mom up. Oh boy, she was worse..... got all nervious.

I have to say frankly that I personally do not agree with the coup. I agree with the statment given by Australian Prime Minister John Howard who described the coup as a "great disappointment," adding that it was a reminder of an element of Asia's past he had hoped would not return. "We condemn military coups," Howard said. "They are a throwback to a past I had hoped Asia had emerged from."

Now, you know what I am thinking. You're right - I DO NOT AGREE WITH THE COUP AND I PERSONALLY FEEL THAT REVOKING THE CONSTITUTION IS A CRIMINAL ACT!

Today as my friends and I went out for dinner. There were soilders every where with guns, in the tanks, in the humvees. Yes, eventough there have not been any acts of violation from this tragic event, but I dont' think I would ever feel completely comfortable with the guns and tanks around me.

US Visa Interview

2006-09-14T23:06:00.000+07:00

Next week I am having a visa interview at the US Embassy. It's pretty much the only thing left before I could go to study in Hawaii. I had to pay $200 just to get the interview. I feel like being ripped off. I will be recovered soon. I still remember my first time for my Missionary Visa Interview. I was very scared and nervious and everything. I went to the embassy and I got turned down. So I went there for the second time and I got it just that easy. You never know the mood of the person who interviews you. If I don't pass the interview I would have to pay another $100 to the embassy. Gosh!

Doubt turns into "Not Understand"

2006-08-30T23:44:00.000+07:00

Today missionaries asked me to help them teach an investigator after their English Class. I learned something new during our conversation. The investigator expressed that he couldn't believe in the miracles which he had learned or heard about. So, we discussed about that topic and during the discussion I was thinking about many things that I doubt about the church, the miracles and a lot of things... when I use the word "doubt" I mean, I don't believe that those things might actually happen! And that's because I didn't really have faith and I didn't truely converted to the church. For example - the poligamy thing. To be honest, I still have a hard with it but it's just different than before I truely converted to the church. Now that I believe in what I believe my doubt about the church turns to not understanding. :) Sounds pretty weird, doesn't it? Let me explain this then. Back to pologamy issue... back then I couldn't accept the fact that it did happen and God allowed that to happen for whatever reasons... but now... I still do not fully understand its principle but I don't doubt. I believe in God and eventhough I don't understand everything God still is the God - polimany still happened for what reason, I do not know but I trust in God's intelligence and wisdom. I have faith in him and that's enough.

There might be millions of things you do not understand about God and his church but when you know by the spirit that He is God and He lives.... They wouldn' matter because you know that all those mysteries will be unfold eventually. For you know where to find the true happiness in your life!

IWES

2006-08-29T00:12:00.000+07:00

Lately, people would come and sorry for me about my schooling. So I think it's the time to finally update my blog. Yea, things were pretty tough but they are getting a lot better. The day after I saw that vision, I received an email from a representative of BYU Hawaii saying that I had got the IWES (International Work Experience Scholarship). I was really happy! I am really gratful for what the church has done for me. I don't think I would have had all these great experiences if I wasn't a member of the church, but more than that though... I am gratful for the knowledge of God and the Savior... about His love and His plan for his children.

Happy Thai Mother's Day

2006-08-12T16:09:00.000+07:00

Today is the Thai Mother's Day. I just want to publictly thanks mommy for her love, patienct, kindless and many others that she has given and done for me. I Y you very much!!! I start to think that being in Hawaii would make me miss you a lot.

Hitting hard

2006-08-04T00:30:00.000+07:00

Today as I was riding in the car on the way to the place I needed to translate for a couple who hired me, my heart just sunk because of my deep disappointment about schooling and what not. I have become uncharible and insensitive.

It's not that easy to have to push back your schooling! I have been accepted by BYU Hawaii and supposed to go in the Fall (September 2006) but because of some personal issue I have to push back, wait and see if I will be able to go in the winter. It's like only one more step before you could get there, you know. So, I have battled with my feelings for quite a long time without knowing it. I thought I was doing alright but everytime people ask me about my school it would just hit me hard.... Usuallly when they ask me about school I would just answer "I don't really know yet" and that seems to be the only answer that I could respond without feeling too down about it. It's tough. When people say everything would be alright I just want to yell "yea ,right" back at them. I start to compare my situation with others who have more opportunities in life and would feel jealous. Don't get me wrong now, I am proud of my family, myself and things in life but you know when there are obstacles standing in your way it just block your eternal perspective sometimes. I would think of something like "this person doesn't have to do anything, and it's so easy for her to go study in the States. She just got a sponsor out of the blue.... me, I work hard. I took the test. I have done so many things to make it happen but it's just not happening!" you know stuff like that. I know I am wrong but sometimes I just can't help it. So, you know I have been having this sort of feelings for a while. One day I have received an email from Sister Hansen and it said that there must be a reason I should stay in Thailand for a little longer. I like the word she used "a little longer". Later on some one siad the same thing and that got me thinking about this experience. I start to think about my life as of now, how much I love it, how much I enjoy it, all the friends I got now, my jobs and ... you know everything... I am pretty happy of what I have and what I am now. I recall how much I missed the food, the people, the language, the culture here in Thailand while I was on my mission in San Francisco! My life couldn't have been better! Just like what I learned in one of the zone conference on my mission that " the happiness in your life depends on the quality of your thoughts" that's so true. Things start to come back to perspective. I don't know what the reason is that I should stay a little longer but now I am so glad that I am here.

While I had all the poor thoughts in the car, out of the blue I saw a vision.... well... you can call it a day-dreaming but it just looked so real. I thought I saw myself at the airport and was about to say good-bye to my loved ones, Ymy mom, my friends, Thailand, Thai food, the people, the missionaries adn everything and I didn't want to leave! I wish I had more time to spend with all of them and I was just crying so hard. It just hit me so hard, that vision.

Life has a purpose. And that purpose is in where you are and what you are doing now. I still want to go to BYU Hawaii. But I am not sad that I am going to be here for "a little longer" anymore. C

Elder Mortensen and I....

2006-07-13T23:20:00.000+07:00

Wanna know the story? Just go to the previous post!

Stalker, Me?

2006-06-23T13:27:00.000+07:00

About a month ago or so the new missionaries from MTC Provo came to Thailand. They came in a big group. Since I worked at the office I had an opportunity to talk with these new comings. There was one missionary that I felt was very different. I talked to them in Thai and I noticed that one of them wouldn't talk to me back. So I thought "fine, if you want to be a jerk like that by not talking to me I am not going to talk with you for the rest of your mission!" I was pretty sure about my judgement. So I didn't bother trying to talk with him but talking with other nicer missionaries.

The next day was a transfer day. All new and old missionaries who were going to move to a new area would gather at this transfer point located at Pakkret meeting house. I was in the meeting when they assigned each missionary to a new area and/or to a new companion. It was an exciting moment for all missionaries. I wasn't a missionary but I was excited my self. Anyway, when it came to the name of the missionary that I didn't like because he wouldn't talk to me back, I was shocked. President said "Elder Mortensen is the only Cambodian speaking missionary and he is assigned to serve with Elder..........". I felt like the biggest jerk. The only reason he didn't talk with me that day was because he didn't know Thai and he didn't even know I was talking to him. I knew I was so wrong and I felt so bad.

Well the story hasn't ended. I really felt bad that one night I decided to call the Cambodian speaking missioanries and asked for Elder Mortensen. He answered the phone with a very low voice. I was scared to death. I thought he didn't like me but I didn't mind 'cuz I sucked. And when I met him another time I tried to made it up by talking with him, of course in English, and I bet he must be very surprised 'cuz I was overly friendly but again, I didn't care, I just wanted to make up all my wrong feelings and attitude. It came to the point where he was sure I was a normal, ordinary human being, so he confessed that he thought I was a " STALKER". Stalker? whatever, .... that was funny but that's what you get and you have to accept it, you know responsible for your actions and thoughts. Now, Elder Mortensen and I have become good friends. He was not at all a "jerkweed". In fact he's a very smart, nice, friendly and fun... I have learned another lesson through this missionary. Now his girl friend is learning the gospel because she sees how much the gospel means to him that he can't keep it with him self but share it with his brothers and sisters on the other side of his world.

LONG LIVE THE KING

2006-06-09T14:53:00.000+07:00

Dear readers,

My knowledge of English is not enough to express my gratitude for my most beloved King. But to show my respect and loyalty to H.M. King Bhumibol by posting an article that is very accurate about our King's works and profile from the timesonline.co.uk LONG LIVE THE KING!

Enduring love of the King and Thais
By Andrew Drummond

World’s longest-reigning monarch is still revered as he celebrates 60 years on the throne
MONARCHIES around the world may be struggling to retain the love and allegiance of their people, but not in Thailand. Kings, queens and princes of many nationalities will fly to Bangkok this week to join King Bhumibol Adulyadej in celebrating 60 years on the throne.
For the Thai people, the world’s longest-reigning monarch remains the most revered figure in their lives, save for Lord Buddha himself.
NI_MPU('middle');
Thailand’s strict laws forbidding criticism of the King are hardly necessary. An accomplished jazz musician, yachtsman, artist and author, the 79-year-old monarch also devotes great energy to helping his country’s poor and has repeatedly used his immense moral authority to save his country from turmoil.
King Bhumibol, the great-grandson of King Mongkut, of The King and I fame, was born in Massachusetts in 1927. He was thrust upon the throne in 1946 after his brother, Ananda, was murdered in the palace in Bangkok with his own pearl-handled revolver.
The new King departed for Switzerland to study political science, and during the early years of his rule his influence was curtailed by the military dictator Plaek Pibulsongkram.
But when students demonstrated for democracy in 1973, and the Army opened fire on them, the King earned his subjects’ devotion by opening his palace as a refuge to them.
In 1992, when troops again fired on pro-democracy students, he summoned the leaders of the coup and the pro-democracy movement to his palace to warn them of the harm being done to the country. Pictures of both men crawling on their knees in front of the monarch were flashed around the world. General Suchinda Kraprayoon, the coup leader, resigned and democracy was restored.
King Bhumibol intervened again this year as the People’s Alliance for Democracy demonstrated against the alleged corruption and cronyism of Thaksin Shinawatra, the billionaire Prime Minister. He summoned Mr Thaksin, who duly announced that he would not be running again for office. “My main reason is because this year is an auspicious year for the King, and I want all Thais to unite,” he announced.
Mr Thaksin’s party called a snap election, which was boycotted by opposition groups as they had no time to prepare. Again the King stepped in. In a televised speech he called on the courts to sort the matter out. The election was declared void and a new one will take place in October.
After each incident the country’s leaders have thanked the King for his advice, albeit through gritted teeth. Indeed, Mr Thaksin will be master of ceremonies for the celebrations taking place over the next ten days. These have already started in Bangkok with exhibitions of the King’s work.
Over the next week the celebrations will continue with candlelight ceremonies and fireworks displays around Bangkok’s golden-spired temples. Millions of Thais will don armbands with the message “Long live the King”. The climax will be a well-wishing ceremony in the Ananta Sarnakorn throne hall and a massive and colourful barge procession along the Chao Phraya river.
The finale will be a royal banquet for the world’s royalty and final well-wishing ceremony. This will be attended by the heads or representatives of the royal families of Denmark, Sweden, Spain, Lichtenstein, Luxembourg, Norway, the Netherlands, Belgium, Mon- aco, Brunei, Bhutan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Japan, Jordan, Malaysia, Nepal, Cambodia, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Samoa, Tonga, Swaziland, Lesotho, and Morocco. Britain will be represented by the Duke of York.
When the celebrations are over, King Bhumibol will continue to offer sage advice to his most loyal subjects, even if it is dispensed through books describing the model conduct of his dog, Tongdeang. The monarch uses the dog’s loyal and pragmatic behaviour in parables to inspire the Thai people.

40 Year Anniversary Musical

2006-05-11T13:42:00.000+07:00

Wow, what a great event! Last Saturday our district had a 40 years celebration of the church in Thailand. The highlight of the show was the musical that our district had put together for months. I was very excited to hear that we were going to make a musical. I have been wanting to actually participate in the musical. It took 2 months to find appropriate songs for the show and about a month for the audition. Members from four branches participated in the musical. It’s the story about a family meeting with the missionaries and learns about the restoration, the book of Mormon, the church in Thailand, wondering if the book of Mormon is true and eventually get baptized. It turned out to be a really good show and people loved it! The reason I used the word “turned out” was because when we rehearsed at the church we had no lights set up, no good sound system and it wasn’t the place we were supposed to perform so we were worried of how the show would turn out. Luckily, Brother Sathid was there to help us. He was excellent at theatre stuff. Brother Sathid works at ISB (International School Bangkok). He played such a big role in putting together the show –the lights, sound and stage…. he directed them all. Sister Sasitorn (P’Toom) was taking care of the music used for the event. I was an actor. The main character too!To see picture click here

I wish we could perform more than just one time because we put a lot of efforts to it. But once is better than none.

2006-05-08T17:00:00.000+07:00

an email from a recent RM :)

2006-05-08T16:49:00.000+07:00

I have received a couple of emails from Tyler Primavera. And I just love them! I laugh everytime I read it. I thought you might enjoy it as well.

First email :

hey Art,
this is Mr Elder Tyler Primavera reporting here. do you remember me ? your old buddy old pal. i just wanted to sent you a sweet nothing and wish you a happy birthday if you know what im saying.....are you married yet? anyways dont let me catch you off your guard again. me on the other hand have a couple marriage offers im just playing hard to get right now. okay well happy Birthday you oldie.
cya
Tyler Primo

Second one :

hello Supree Sawijit,
it me again Elder Prim. what are you up to these days. sometimes i look at the sky and wonder what the famous ART from Pakkret is doing at this moment. gross..that kinda sounded like a pickup line....im not gay. hey you should apply for scholarships at BYU hawaii. they pay for your school. you must be better than me cuz BYU denied me for the 3rd time in a row. oh well who needs em....they made a big mistake. i got a job on a car lot washing cars and driving the courtesy shuttle. it sucks, but guess what i get payed 280 baht an hour thats alot huh. actually not really. no i havent dated anyone. i have to play my cards right. plus im still horribly afraid of girls. okay i just thought i would give you a email in the mail for you. remember when we used to teach together. those were the days. okay cya later buddy.
Primo

2006-04-25T14:53:00.000+07:00

Songkran, Water Festival & Easter

2006-04-17T11:15:00.000+07:00

Yes, I got sun burnt. If you really notice it you will see that my skin is actually red in the picture. I got that on Songkran or the water festival. Songkran used to be Thai New Year. We throw and splash water to people that we see. I took missionaries to Soi Raewadii one of the busy streets to celebrate the event. It was so fun but I got a really bad burnt. Songkran last for three days but I only went out for a day because after that super fun day I got so burnt that I had to stay home for the rest of the days. The funny thing is when I was walking with the missionaries, the people would just throw the water on them but not me because they (the missionaries) were farangs.

My easter was good. We had a special sacrament service. I performed a musical number. I was very excited but it went really well. I guess another cool thing that happened is that my naighbor (spelling?) got baptized and she was a referral from me. I realize that each person has his/her own time. I have known this person for over thirteen years but she just got baptized. After I got off my mission I met her and I just invited her to the english class. She accepted my invitation and seven months later she got baptized. :) I am so very happy.

I hope that you all had a good easter and songkran. Don't forget to leave a comment. Thank you!

Me and Cousins

2006-03-27T21:37:00.000+07:00

I just took these pictures last week. It's not very clear. Hope you like them.

Tired

2006-03-19T22:03:00.000+07:00

These past few weeks I have felt so down and tired for some reasons. I went to church and someone noticed and asked if I was o.k. becuase I looked really down for two weeks she said. I just told her that I was hungry because I didn't have breakfast before I went to church. Well that's not a lie! I just didn't really feel at the time that she wanted to listen about it. I have my own theory ,based on my personal experiences of course, that I usually feel better if someone answers me "I am doing just find!", "Awesome", or I am great other than "I am alright", "it sucks", or something like that when I ask -How are you?- you know. Well, I don't mind at all if their answers are not positive because we are people. We all have good and bad days but sometimes I just choose not to tell people something that is not very joyful. So,yea that's my excuse for not telling her how exactly I felt. Anyway, after church there was a long meeting and I got really bored but then Elder Sadler called me up on my cell-phone and asked me if I wanted to help him and his companion teach... well... to be honest I didn't really want to go just because I felt kind of bored about the church (that's bad, I know!) but because I was really close with Elder Sadler and he really sounded like he wanted me to help him out, so I accepted his invitation.

Elder Sadler has become my hero for a couple of months now. Not only because he has got such a great skill in speaking the language and teaching, but he is so sincere and caring and different than other missionaries. Don't get me wrong now, I love other missionaries too and some of them are my heroes but in different ways, you know. Elder Sadler is very talented. He plays the guitar so well and he's fun to be with. I love his honesty. Basically, he's my really good friend, even though I am not sure if he considers me the same but the point is it doesn't matter anyway. I remember one day something was bothering me badly and I was very unsattled (spelling?). Elder Sadler and his companion sat down with me and talked with me for a while, I really felt their sincerity, even though they told me that they didn't have anything much to do and it's good to kill the time with me, just kidding. And I felt much better afterward.

Enought about Elder Sadler, well.... so today I went out with Elder Sadler and Elder O' Brian and Elder Sadler asked me to summarize the idea or teaching of the Atonement. I explained very simply word by word just like when I was a missionary in San Francisco only was it in English. During the explaination I realized the truth of it myself. I felt better afterward but another cool thing is that the investigator asked me to write what I taught him down and bring it to him next time because he was touched by it. I thanked him, thinking that it didn't only help him but it also helped me tremendously.

There are many instances of how the gospel brings us true happiness. I, again, witness of the reality of the church. I know the church is true. Thank you Elder Sadler and Elder O'Brian for inviting me today to help me feel better and gain a testimony of the Atonement.

Elder Holland's Words for Thai Members and missionaries

2006-02-27T23:00:00.000+07:00

Dear all,

Elder Holland came to Thailand for a very short time before he went to Laos to dedicate the land, but has left such a great impact to members and missionaries in Thailand. You will love it. I was there when he spoke to Thai members. Let me tell you that I just felt the power. I witness to you that he is an apostle of the Lord.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sister Lindorf who shared this wonderful talks to us. As usual, I expect a comment from you. I nkow you will love this. Enjoy!

TO THE MISSIONARIES:
In your mission newsletter, convey our love to all the missionaries who did not have the opportunity to be here today. Share everything you can with your associates. Something ought to happen as a result of this meeting!

I came half way around the world to tell you I love you, and nothing matters more to me than that. I believe I am also authorized to say that God loves you.

We owe something to the Church for what the Church thinks we are. You are angels to the Church, because you are missionaries. You are the future of the Church; the lifeblood of the Church.

The Apostolic role is most basically a missionary. We are in this together. I am Apostolic with a capital A. You are apostolic with a small a. Don’t miss this chance!

Not just anyone is sent to Thailand. You’re it! You are the hope of Israel. You are God’s hope for Thailand.

Nothing you will ever do in your life will be more important than what you are doing now. EVER! The most important thing in the universe is the salvation of souls. It is at the heart and meaning of ALL we do and are.

The Atonement cannot do its work until you do yours. You’ve got to do what only you can do, so that the Savior can do what only He can do.

My mission meant everything to me! I want it to mean everything to you!

It seems to me that I have thought of my mission every day of the past 43 years since my mission. …My mission has affected every good thing that has happened since.

This is God’s opportunity for you to be what you never dreamed of being. And it’s never going to come this way again.

This is real life. This is the way, the truth and the life! Don’t you dare walk away from it when you finish your mission.

We have come to declare that we are literally children of God. No other religion teaches that.

Preach My Gospel has to get down into the marrow of your bones! You need to feel that fire so deeply that you couldn’t NOT be a missionary if you tried. You can’t go home and set your lessons on the shelf. You have to know it in your heart. When it is you will know that when you open your mouth, God speaks.

The scripture that “Preach My Gospel” is taken from (D&C 58:14) has a second part… “by the Spirit.” We have to preach the gospel the Lord’s way. Obedience is the first law of everything, not just heaven. It’s not your mission; it’s not yours to make it your mission. It’s the Savior’s mission. So much depends on your obedience to His way. Don’t spend a lot of useless time trying to do it your way.

What do you want your investigator to feel when you see them?... that you were sent there by God. We don’t have a message for them if they do not accept and understand revelation; revelation for the Church as a whole and revelation for each individual in the Church.

Read the Book of Mormon with fresh ideas and a heart open to impressions. The Book of Mormon needs to be the lifeblood of your teachings.

Why is it such hard work? Why don’t we have more success? I have a theory (and it is just my opinion), that it is because salvation has never been a cheap experience. We say we are His emissaries and if we do, we must walk the path He walked. We must suffer when He suffers, cry when He cries, and hurt when He hurts. You cannot witness what you don’t know, have never experienced, or never felt. When you sign your call, you sign up for a trip through Gethsemane. There have never been easy missions. There is no other path, no other cup. This is our mission, our cup.

TO THE MEMBERS:
I testify that God sees your tears and answers your prayers. He will not leave you in your time of need. When you are fearful, lonely, or confused, with not enough money or maybe not enough to eat… God knows your circumstances and He will not leave you. Trust in that! It is part of being a child of God.

Just as the children were sacred to the Savior, so must they be sacred to you. We have to think about saving the little ones. We have to stay active for their sakes. We have to see them as God sees them. It DOES make a difference that you take them to Church and that you raise them in the Gospel.
Why do you think President Hinckley works so hard? His happiness is not complete until ours is complete. It isn’t enough that he has the Gospel, he has to stay with it for the next generations!

We were given two great gifts from a loving Father in Heaven: Christ and His Atonement and the Gift of the Holy Ghost.

Every one of us, I fear, have underestimated the Gift of the Holy Ghost we were given when we were baptized. There is no greater prayer I could have for you than that you live worthy of the constant presence of the Holy Ghost. He will guide, teach, protect, prompt, and lead you. The safest, surest blessing I can leave for you is the blessing of the presence of the Holy Ghost.

ELDER HOLLAND’S BLESSING:
I leave a blessing on each of you in Thailand, according to my Apostolic Office.
Brethren, rise up to be equal to the Priesthood you bear. It is the power by which Godliness is made manifest in this world. Live it in your homes and in the Church.
Sisters, you have been the defenders and carriers of faith from the beginning. You are often the first to join, first in attendance, Temple, Family History, Family Home Evening, and Family Prayer. Sisters I bless you and thank you. Continue to show that light in your lives.
I bless the children of all ages that you’ll be safe. To the babes in arms, I bless you that you will grow up free from the blood and sins of this generation; that you will have spiritual and physical safety.
I bless those of you who are ill, struggling, alone, single parents, and in part member families. I bless you all that the Gospel will be rich and full in your lives; that as brothers and sisters we will strengthen each other.
I bless this land, nation, and government, that the Gospel will spread like wildfire. May we all do our part and be missionary minded always.
I call down this blessing upon Thailand and seal it upon you.

Baby Art

2006-02-16T20:04:00.000+07:00

I just thought that I would be fun to post some of the pictures of me when I was a little boy. I was so cute! ha ha Enjoy and please give me a comment!

Less-Dramatic

2006-01-29T20:10:00.001+07:00

Today after church I was playing the piano and a missionary came up to me and said very seriously "Art, can you play the piano less dramatic in the sacrament?" I was like... urrrr. In fact I have been thinking a lot myself of what people would think when I play like I usually do. Well, when I play hymns, any hymns everywhere I do not play exactly how they are written, usually not because I don't like the way they are but my brain would just start to improvise the hymn I play and now I actually have a hard time trying to play hymns they way they are written. some people like it and some don't. I still remember when I was a missionary in the US a lot of members would come up to may and told me that they really like the way I play the hymn but some of my companions just hated it! And I understand both sides. This missionary who told me to play the piano less-dramatically probably thought that in the sacrament I should play the piano simply and according to how the hymns were written so the spirit would remain in the meeting. But in the other hand I don't think improvising music will shake off the spirit either. When I play the piano I just let my spirit go and play with my soul. And I guess because of that it's so hard to me, I almost have to work on it, playing the hymns without improvising them. You know what I mean? It is very complicated to explain. And I think I will continue to play hymns the way I normally do, may be a little less-dramatically. Ha ha, seriously, I guess I need to change a little or otherwise I might differ someone from feeling the spirit and that's not good especially in the sacrament meetings. What do you think? I would appreciate every comment.

I passed the Michigan Test

2006-01-28T21:40:00.000+07:00

Guys! Guess what I passed the Michigan Test with the score of 86! I still can't believe myself. Well.... yesterday President Suchat, Thailand CES Director called me up and told me that I passed the test. I am so happy. Well... more surprised I guess because I thought I couldn't do it, really! I didn't even want to bother to see the score just because I believed that I failed. I was having some ice-cream with Elder Lebaron and his fellow SYS missionaries, it was his birthday. We made a surprise for him at Swensens. It was so cool. We has such a great time.

So, I think I am going to BYU Hawaii in August, Fall semester. That's good because I will be able to save up some money for the school. The Lord has blessed my so greatly that I have no room to receive them anymore. Man! miracles occur all the time, sometimes in the way we may not expect.

Last Thursday, I went to the moves to teach the returning missionaries the career workshop. The more I teach about it , the more I realize that it's just like the missionary work. I think all that we have learn and will learn is true and we can use those principles in our everyday lives. The truth is something that benefitual wherever and whenever you are. That's why we first need to seek after the truth, the eternal truth because it will lead us to be successful in this life and the life to come.

Busy but Happy

2006-01-25T12:41:00.000+07:00

Man I have been really bad at up-dating this blog. I need to do better, I know. I hope you all don't get too bored about my blog though. I was looking up the definition of the blog and then tons of definition came up but most of them came up as “online –journal” so I was like ummmm then I am going to write my journal here but obviously not like real real journal but … my thoughts. Anyhow, like I have said earlier I have been really busy. Here is my schedule:

Monday & Wednesday : Serve at the mission office

Tuesday & Thursday : Teach piano & English

Friday : Serve at the ERS

Saturday : Teach English all day

Sunday : Go to church

See! I am really busy and I am not saying this just to show off but if you want to make an appointment with me just check my schedule! J I don’t know if you heard about my educational goal. I think I am going to BYU Hawaii in Fall Semester. I am not 100% though. I will add some more pictures for you to enjoy.

So long

2006-01-12T22:59:00.000+07:00

I know it has been a while since my last post but boy the word "busy" does exist. I thought I would be very busy only on my mission, ha ha. That's not true at all, obviously. But many things has come and gone. Oh, I took the Michigan Test. Man, it was soooo hard. I am not excited for the result. I better know about it not. But it was fun though. I was laughing during the test, not because it's easy of course. The other examinees must have thought that I thought the test was too easy.

By the way, I saw the Chronicles of Narnia and I thought it was really good. Do you guys agree with me? I can't help but compare the movie to Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. I don't know which one is the better one. I like of like Narnia especailly the religous aspect of it though. But Harry Potter has that too but may be not as much. So, yea, it was really enjoyable to me. I was thinking about buy the soundtrack but then it doesnt' have the instrumental score that I'd like to listen. You know what I mean? So, I didn't buy it. Plus, it's kind of expensive and I need to save up some money for school. I think I am going to BYU Hawaii in spring but that's not final though. At least, for the test part I have nothing to worry about. Why? Umm.... You could ask me via email. But I don't think I should write it here.

The Lord has blessed me so much that sometimes I feel too much. :) Can you believe that? Neither can I! Now, I know what it means in the scriptures when it says that the Lord will pour out his blessings that there will be no room for us to receive them if we are faithful. One thing I really believe in is Tithing. The Lord truly takes care of you when you put your trust in him and show him your faith through tithing.

Fun English

2006-01-07T22:39:00.000+07:00

I know I am fat.
During Break
Gift & Book
Cute!!!
Fellows,

I just thought that I would post some of the pictures of the class I teach at Fun Enlish. These are my students, not all of them are in the pictures ofcourse. I love teaching! Kids are like little angels from above.

By Small and Simple Things

2006-01-07T00:29:00.000+07:00

I went to an English class a couple of days ago in Bangbuathong. The English Class sponsored by the Thailand Bangkok Mission is a lot different from the past. Missionaries teach free English every Wednesday. However, the regular English class starts from 6.30pm.-7.30pm. and from 7.30pm until 8.00pm. they teach gospel in English. Well... that sounds pretty cool isn't it? But guess what, that's not the point though. The point that I want to bring up is the experience I had at the class.

The class started regularly with the opening prayer. I was invited to do so. We learned about the body parts. The class went really well. At the end of the English class the missionaries said very clearly that the next 30 minutes will be the gospel lesson and it's optional. Students were free to leave or stay as they wished. I was surprised that all students stayed for the the gospel lesson.

It was Elder Loudon's turn to teach the class. And as he was teaching about the life of Jesus Christ, I felt so strongly of the divine power that the things he was teaching were true. He taught so simply, yet so strongly. I have to admit that since I came back from my mission I had never felt that way before. It brought up a lot of memories of my mission.

I served in an area called "Novato" which is a small town in California, north of San Francisco. People were so chilled and I loved the area. One day I received a media referral requesting the "Lamb of God" video. My companion and I went to deliver him the material. Eu Gene opened the door and he told us he could talked with at the moment. We told him that we were missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints. He said he knew who we were and he set up another appointment with us. I didn't go to the next appointment with Gene because I had to go on team ups (exchange, switch-off, or whatever you call it). When my companion and his temporary companion came back, I knew that they must have come from the war. I was quite right. They told me that Gene is a seventh-day Adventist, and as they walked into the house, they saw a video camera in the middle of the room. And when they started the lesson, he recorded all the things which they were discussing about. I found out it was rather an argument to discussion.

I got really scared as my companion and were planning for the next day activity. I would have to "bash" with him, well I didn't think so. I was from Thailand. My English was so excellent to argue with an elder from the other faith. I didn't show my emotion because I wanted to be cool. But I think my companion knew how I felt though. Anyway, our plan was to answer his questions and to teach about the prophet. Oh my goodness, we were trying to answer his questions for nearly an hour and his questions were like "How did you know that Jesus moved the Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday" or, " Why did Joseph Smith said God was his right hand man?" and you know " Black and the Priesthood". I reckoned we were not going anywhere arguing. The scripture says that the spirit of contention's not from God. I didn't know what to do. All the sudden I felt that I must bear a simple, humble and heartfelt testimony. I did. The silence filled up the room. Obviously, it wasn't that simple for him... he went on after he shook the spirit off. My companion again bore his sweet testimony of Joseph Smith. This time he didn't shake off the spirit. We invited him to watch the Restoration with us. After the film ended he said that he was touched.

We can be a missionary by bearing our sincere testimony. President Monson has said "The testimony is found by the bearing of it." I love it when I see a missionary bear his testimony simply but powerfully. Elder Loudon brought the spirit into that English class. His testimony was record up in Heaven. The church is so true. I know it with all my heart.

Missionaries shot in VA

2006-01-03T21:20:00.000+07:00

Two Mormon missionaries shot in VirginiaMonday, January 2, 2006CHESAPEAKE, Va. -- A Mormon missionary going door-to-door was fatally shot Monday night and a fellow missionary was wounded by an assailant who fled, police said.The attacks happened just after 6 p.m. when a man approached the 21- and 19-year-olds, shot them and ran away, police said.Both victims were taken to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, where the older victim died and the other was listed in serious condition Monday night.The identities of the victims were not released.Police shut down part of the neighborhood while searching for the man. It was not immediately known what prompted the shootings.link

FRIENDS

2006-01-03T14:27:00.000+07:00

FRIENDS

I have been very lucky to have so many great friends in my life. I can't imagine my life without friends. I always say that my life is rich because I have so many wonderful friends from every part of the world. Therefore I am going to be a better friend to everyone that I know. One thing I believe is that God put us here on earth to bless others and to fufil each other's role by our own and unique personalities. The influence of friends is so great. The Savior, before he was crucified, referred to his apostles as his "friends".

Friends last forver.

"And that same sociality which exists among us here will exist among us there, only it will be coupled with eternal glory, which glory we do not enjoy." - D&C 130:2

I love you all my friends. Thank you for being a part of my life.

New Year ;)

2006-01-02T15:23:00.000+07:00

Happy New Year 2006

Lately I have been feeling that time flies. It's already a new year! I feel very old and fat ( ha ha). I spent my New Year's eve at Doha, a friend of mine, since he was going to go to BYU Hawaii. I really am happy for him. We counted down in the car. It was cool watching fireworks on the express way ready to send him to the airport and go to church on New Year. When I got to the church I got so tired that I fell on the ground and didn't' bother to stand up. I made it through though.

When I came back home all I could think about was the MICHIGAN TEST! Boy, it's nest week. I am not ready. To tell you the truth, I want to pass and now I am scared that I am not going to make it. Surprisingly all people that I talked with said that I would pass it and I feel the pressure because of that. Don't get me wrong I feel really thankful and grateful for their confidence toward me but what if I don't pass the test?

Sometimes I wonder if the Michigan Test really test the effectiveness of ones English skill. I mean I have seen so many people passed the test but when it comes to communication they didn't even know how to speak English. Not that I am good at English, far from it but I guess I try to find a reason to something that is hard for me to do. Ha ha. But in the other hand some of the part of the Michigan Test does approve one's knowledge of English. Those who speak English well can be sure they will pass at least 90% of the grammar section. But the vocabulary part is just ridiculous. Some of the vocab is just silly to be the part of the test like ambrosia. OK, I need to stop complaining before you permanently stop reading my blog. Well... at least you have discovered the other side of me. Ha ha. Drop me a line if you can. Thanks for taking time reading.

Elder Saowichit's Final Stewardship

2005-12-30T16:32:00.000+07:00

Fellows,
First of all, I would like to thank you all for being supportive to me making this Blog. Today I just thought that I would post my Final stewardship from my mission. It's the short version of the things I had learned on my mission and some of the experiences I faced. Your comments will be greatly appreciated!
To read my final stewardship please click on the link below.

Art's Journey: Elder Saowichit's Final Stewardship

Check out my pictures

2005-12-29T00:02:00.000+07:00

Hello Guys,

I have updated some of the pictures from my mission and after mision also. Enjoy!

Merry Christmas

2005-12-28T23:10:00.000+07:00

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2006

Just can't believe Christmas has come and the New Year is approaching. I really miss my mission. I still remember my Christmas times in the mission. Going to the marked Street and sing Christmas Carols was fun.

My first Christmas after I got back from San Francisco was amazing. At the sacrament meeting the kids were singing Christmas song. They were like little angels. We also had a musical number from the Branch Choir. And I had an opportunity to sing a special song with Sister Lindorf, our great senior missionary. Again, speaking of a senior missionary makes me get mission-homesick. I loved my mission and hope to one day be able to go back to visit all the people and places I have been to.

My post-mission life has been wonderful. I am fat! I really need to work out more but the problem is I have no motivation. ;) Ha ha, I need to repent. I love being back here. One thing the mission did to me is that it helped me realize how much I loved Thailand. I remember craving for Thai Food every other few days on my mission. ;)

So I am now trying to study hard for an English Test to apply to BYU-Hawaii. I am going to take this test on Jan' 10th. In the mean time, I work as an English Teacher to little kids and as a piano teacher as well. I love it! Working with little kids, and young people brighten my day and also makes me feel really old. Man, I really don't want to talk about this.

Yesterday, my new friend, Jeremy, from Palo Alto came to visit here in Thailand. I took him to the ancient city. We had a lot of fun. But again, as we were talking about California I just missed San Francisco and the areas I served in really badly. We had a really great time together. Everyone who is planning on coming to Thailand should visit the Ancient City because it will give you the unique overview from which to start your journey to the rest of Thailand!

I hope that you had a wonderful Christmas. If you have any comments please feel free to post them so. I wish you a Happy New Year.

Love, Art

Recording EA Studio

2005-12-21T21:46:00.000+07:00

I used to wonder how would it feels like to record a song you like in the cool studio. I didn't know that my little dream would come true!!! Last July, at EA Games Studio, I was there recording my first song...well not my song but my voice in other's music. It was really cool to just stand in front of the $5000 microphone.
I didn't feel I did a great job eventhough everyone said so but it surely was another cool experience in my life.