February Re-Cap

Sadly, my blogging has taken the backseat for some time now. I find myself just wanting to veg and surf the internet than dwell on my thoughts or experiences...not because they've been weird or bad, but more likely out of laziness. In my periodic weak attempt to re-cap events, here goes nothing!

On Wednesday, February 4, 2009, Future Father-in-Law experienced a "mild" heart attack. That was probably the pinnacle of my 4-week long string of horrendous stress. Up until that point, I was seriously experiencing anxiety attacks, praying for God's renewal and strength constantly throughout the day, and asking "why me?" over stupid things (like the 4th flat tire in 3 months). When FMIL called Wednesday night, all my silly stressing and whining came to a screeching halt.

The following morning, H2B flew out to be with his parents. I almost bummed a ride with a co-worker on Friday to be with them, but at the last second, FMIL and H2B said perhaps it was better I stayed home to take care of a couple things and also because they had many relatives driving in from all over on Saturday and we would be visiting the following weekend as originally planned back in December.

That weekend, I was a total hermit (with the exception of constant calls from H2B, helping him make arrangements and whatnot). Bro called a few times and asked what I was doing and I said, "I keep doing the same things: eat, work-out, get on my computer, watch TV, eat, work-out, get on my computer..." He said, "you're like a hamster...so busy." Later on, H2B called and asked what I was doing and I told him the same. Then he asked, "what is the turtle doing?" "Oh, she keeps doing the same thing: sleep, move rocks, swim, bask, sleep, move rocks, swim, bask." I guess we are creatures of habit and routines.

On Sunday, February 8, at 8 AM, FFIL underwent open heart surgery for a quadruple bypass. Thankfully, all went well and he has since been recovering well. I picked H2B up after work on Monday.

On Friday, February 13, H2B again flew out. The following morning, Valentine's Day, FBIL, my bro, and I drove to Vegas. We left around 9 AM and drove straight to Caesar's Palace with one pit stop. After a minor kink in hotel registration, Bro drove me over to Future-in-Laws home, where he met them for the first time. Other relatives had already arrived so H2B and I left shortly after to run errands. When we got back, H2B and I prepared our first delicious, low-sodium, diabetic meal for the 4 of us. I thought it was actually an impressive spread. We steamed salmon, sauteed corn and zucchini, steamed vegetables, and sauteed bell peppers with ginormous shrimp (mainly for me). It was sweet to "double-date" over a home-cooked meal with his parents.

On Sunday morning, H2B and I ran more errands, rushed back to cook lunch for them, and then H2B dropped me off at Red Rock Casino's Spa. That was the highlight of my weekend and totally what I've been anticipating for months! I received a 50-minute Swedish massage that pratically put me to sleep out of pure relaxation. After 3 hours of pampering, I met H2B and we checked in to Red Rock for the night.

We had dinner reservations with Bro and FBIL for 7:30 at Sedona Restaurant and Lounge, but unfortunately, H2B had gotten seriously ill with food poisoning so he stayed back. I courageously drove myself to the restaurant (and of course got lost). Although our meal was undeniably goumet and delicious, service was soOOOoOOoo bad. Still, we enjoyed each other's company over good entrees. After, I went back to the hotel and turned in early.

On Monday, my second highlight took place. H2B and I played slots for an hour before the 4 of us met for a brunch buffet at Red Rock. I love buffets! The line was crazy long and while we were waiting, a pregnant lady in front of us fainted and fell to the floor. We helped her out (as I am an expert at fainting and recovering). In reflecting, I thought it was great how responsible it was that everyone in my party immediately took action...while everyone else standing in line just stared. The lady behind us even commented after, "how embarrassing."

We indulged in a yummy 2-for-1 brunch buffet and then gambled a little after. H2B and I made one last visit to his parents before meeting my bro and FBIL to head back to L.A. Our drive back wasn't too bad, despite crazy rain. We stopped by Yardhouse in Victoria Garden for dinner and then continued all the way home.

It was really a nice, productive mini-vacation. :)

A Penny Shy of 30 Cents

Today marks my 29th birthday! In all the relaxation and fun today, I didn't even think once about how old I've turned until about an hour ago.

Last night, I had a date with my bro and FBIL. I got to Chez Carmona around 5 P.M., where Chef Bro was cooking a sumptuous pasta dish a la FBIL's recipe. Creamy sauce consisting of chicken, peas, onion, yellow and red peppers, and spices was delicately poured over rigatoni. FBIL glossed olive oil and sprinkled salt over French bread and then grilled it downstairs. We also had Caesar salad with Japanese cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, corn, and garbanzo beans. Everything was delicious!

Around 6:15, we made our way to the opening night of Madame Butterfly at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. We stopped by Starbucks, where I tried a Vanilla Bean creme Frappuccino (that tastes like McD's fro-yo). Bro and I picked up tickets while FBIL parked...(and almost didn't make it to the first act!). It was a really neat experience going to an opera. I really didn't know what to expect, but I certainly wasn't expecting what I experienced. One must have a vivid imagination and be able to follow the story line by reading and interpreting the textual translations over the stage. If I hadn't read a synopsis, I don't think I would have gotten the full story. All in all, we agreed that it was a different experience.


Since I got home so late (11:30 p.m.), I really did not want to go to work today, so I called in sick. I was actually able to sleep in a bit and then met bro at Overland Cafe for breakfast at 9:45. We had a nice time, despite my faux pas of knocking over my coffee, which spilled all over my bag. We left around 11 A.M., and I made two pit-stops before returning home.

BF and I were going to go to Lake Shrine on Sunset or the Getty Museum, but since we were leaving our place at 1 PM and planning on going to my favorite Mexican restaurant, we didn't think the timing would work out. We went straight to lunch, where I ordered the chicken fajita for the first time. It was better than I expected! We thoroughly enjoyed our meal.

Afterward, we stopped by the Fox Studios lot in Century City to visit a friend, who hooked up a discount to Season 3 of My Name is Earl! I am soOoooOO excited and can't wait to watch it! Afterwards, we stopped by the Westside Pavilion to shop a bit, but I didn't find anything that I really wanted. Besides, BF bought me a pea coat that will arrive tomorrow and he is getting me a turtle tank for my Lil Focker that I love soOooOo much! :D

Lastly, we stopped by Baskin-Robbins for the traditional birthday cake...only BF bought me 2 cakes (and a real ice-cream milkshake)! He keeps outdoing himself every year! Now, I am just waiting for FBIL and Bro to come over so we can have some delicious cake.


All I wanted for today was to have a nice, relaxing birthday and it certainly was. Thank you to all my friends and family who have wished me a happy birthday!

XOXO

It's Alive!

Pixillated's design (finally) went live today!
Check it out right here. :)

So proud of H2B!

Steeeeee--rike!

Summer vacation's been awesome. I'm still waking up kinda early, but getting lots of R & R. Today, I worked on some personal administrative stuff in the morning. Afterwards, BF and I ate a late lunch at home and then headed off for $9 All-you-can-bowl at the bowling alley.

Last Thursday was the first time I've bowled in over a year. Way too long of a hiatus in my opinion! We bowled 5 games each last week and my weak arm and wrist was sore for a few days. Today, we bowled 4.5 games, but I was a lot more focused and worked hard at crafting my whole thing with the help of BF's "backseat" coaching. During our games, I kept thinking, I'm having a lot of fun. It's nice to have these days where it's just BF and I having a really good time.

It also just occurred to me that I have two more weeks before work begins! BF and I may squeeze in another mini-trip before I hit the floor running with my bigger-than-last-year's-huge-caseload. Right now, I'm looking at 66 Special Ed kiddos and 9 with severe autism. On the bright side, I finish my ABA courses in late October. Woo-hoo!

Viva Las Vegas and Back!

This past weekend, BF and I squeezed in a mini-vacation...Vegas was sOoOOoo much fun! It was packed with quality time with his parents, our friends, and with each other. :)

We had been really anxiously awaiting for departure all week. Ironically, we almost missed our flight! Bro dropped us off at LAX, and as he got out to help us get our luggage from the trunk, we all realized that we had locked ourselves out of the car with the engine still running! We think my locks glitched. :( I know I pressed unlock, but it must have glitched b/c we couldn't get back in! We ended up calling the on-site tow truck company to help us for an expensive but worthwhile $40.

We caught our afternoon flight and even got the emergency exit seat (extra leg room). BF's best homegirl picked us up from the airport. We had dinner with her and his mom (while his dad was really sick at home) at the Grand Cafe in Red Rock Casino. Afterwards, I stayed with her while he and his mom gambled. Around 10:30, we headed back to his parents to spend the night.

On Saturday, we woke up and had a delicious breakfast at Mimi's Cafe, and then BF's parents brought us to the Mirage to check into our Penthouse Suite! =O BF gambled a little bit more with his mom and then the 2 of us just lounged in the suite. We were going to have dinner but then his bestest homie was like, "Yo, I need you to go to Fry's to get some speakers." I was silently not thrilled b/c that meant he would be gone for a minimum of 2-3 hours for a crazy request, and we would not have dinner together b/c he'd have to arrange taxi rides from Mirage to Fry's to Paris back to Mirage!! On the other hand, it was for his best friend who is a very loyal, awesome, and funny friend...and we were also celebrating his birthday over the weekend.

After BF left, I checked out the casino but got too scared to go anywhere else (i.e., across the street or to another casino) by myself. =P I went back up and took a bath in the whirlpool tub. :) BF got back shortly after my bath, and then we lounged in the suite before we got all dolled and dressed up to go to JET w/ friends. We actually didn't stay too long at the club b/c nobody was feeling the music; we went back to our place and hung out with D & Dar, and then stayed back when the girls left for Paris Paris, where BF's homie and wife were staying.

On Sunday, BF sent me to the spa at Mirage! I was going to bypass it so I was surprised when he was so determined that he even called the place up and set my appointment! He has never done that! (Case in point -- he always makes me order food over the phone even though I hate doing it!) I got a fabulous customized facial (BF still can't get over how "nice and smooth" my nose is) and a Thai Reflexology foot massage (I've never gotten a professional foot massage; BF always massages my feet -- the poor, sweet guy). All in all, it was wonderful but rushed as we had a dinner date with friends immediately after. BTW, the spa also served the most delicious juice -- no clue what was in it (no alcohol for sure) but it was soOOoOo good.

We met our friends back at Paris Paris at Ah Sin, a Chinese-Japanese Cuisine restaurant...which ended up being soOOooOOo expensive and very disappointing. I.e., all the girls had all-you-can-eat sushi but the sushi was sooo lame. E.g., the crab roll just had a chunk of imitation crab and nothing else. The California roll was a crab roll with a sliver of cucumber. Oh, and b/c it was a fancy place, it's not like a buffet where you go to the counters and self-serve. You order two rolls at a time...but they only had a measly selection of 6 or 7 (not fancy at all) rolls. All of that for $20/person! The guys were smart enough to order real dishes, but both of their dishes looked exactly the same, just with different meats. It was such a bummer that when we went our separate ways later that night, a couple of us ordered room service when we got back to our respective hotels.

After dinner, I went with BF's homie's wife to the Caesar's Palace Forum shops. She really wanted a Louis Vuitton purse, and she deserved it as she recently got a job promotion. Before we separated from the group, BF gave me his credit card and said, "Get whatever you want." So when we got back, BF's homie met us first and was like, "Why don't you hold onto the bag and see what [BF] says?" Poor BF -- his eyes got soOOoo big when he saw me. BF's homie pulled out the receipt and was like, "wow, you bought a $730 purse?" (real price). BF was speechless! When the joke was over, BF was so relieved! LOL

I later told BF that he doesn't have to worry; I can't see myself spending that much for any one thing...unless it's a nice piece of jewelry (I have not spent even half that amount on an item to date) or a necessity (or something like lasik surgery!).

When we got back to the hotel, I really wanted to go downstairs and play a few slots with BF, but I was so sleepy! He ordered room service and I fell asleep, but he woke me up to help him eat. :) Of course I didn't decline the tasty chicken strips and potato boats. I ate and then fell back asleep so he went down by myself for about an hour.

The next morning, I took yet another whirlpool bath before we had breakfast with his parents downstairs at the buffet (I love buffets!) and headed to the airport. It was such a niiiiiiiice vacation (albeit scorching hot) and definitely hard to get back into the groove of things!

P.S. Can I just say again -- we stayed in a Penthouse Suite!

Happy Birthday to the BF!

Caption: My favorite picture of my favorite boyfriend. :)

I am anxiously waiting to pick the BF up from the airport. He left for Vegas on Thursday morning to visit his folks (belated Mother's Day, Anniversary, Dad's birthday, his birthday, and early father's day celebration), hang out with his best friend, and then meet up with the boys.

Reflecting on the past years that I've known BF, I can see how much he has changed and grown in so many ways. Ways that we never thought he could or would. I constantly reflect on how fortunate we are to be where we are in life...and to be together. He has become such an important part of my life, and I am so grateful to have him. He often jokes that he is the "best boyfriend ever," but in reality, he is (for me). He makes me laugh everyday. He makes me smile just thinking about him.

I stumbled across an old journal entry re: BF from two years ago. It's amazing how things appear to change so fast in retrospect. Throughout our relationship, we've been through numerous ups and downs, many of which bred from his internal battles that he has fought for over a decade. To add onto it all, he often felt blue about his age with respect to where he was at in his career and goals. As he turns 31 today, we both know he has worked so hard to get where he is at now. I can't remember how many times just within the past few months that we have counted our blessings and talked about how positive things are for him (vs. 2 to 5 years ago). Everyday, he becomes a better and better man and just when I think I can't love him any more than I already do, I do. (How does that saying go? Men are like wine; they get finer with age. ;)

Lil F and I have missed him a lot and can't wait for him to come home to celebrate his birthday.

Happy birthday to my best BF ever!

Pizza Party

I remember when we were in elementary school -- "winning" or earning a pizza party was such an awesome reward. As an adult, I still LOVE pizza parties!

BSILF and Hubby came over to the westside to meet up for bowling and pizza, only we didn't get to bowl since both alleys were jam-packed. :( Instead, we came back to Chez C&C and ordered Numero Uno (my favorite pizza...most likely b/c I have never had authentic Chicago deep dish or New York style) and polished it off with a 31 Flavors Oreo cookies and cream ice-cream cake!

We really had so much fun catching up with BSILF and Hubby (especially me!). We talked for hours about everything going on, from housing to jobs to the yummiest food to our futures. I thought it was funny that half of the time, the men would break off and talk about male stuff and then join us every so often as us women shared about the craziness of work. They also marveled at how big Lil F is now...and she had to show off and stand on her hind legs like she was prepping for the Great Escape again. (I also think Lil F has Tanga Tank Envy.)

I was sad when they left, but I knew that we all had lots of work to do...or at least sleep to catch up on.

Vision Update

I went for my 1 week post-op follow-up yesterday, and I am looking well! (Pun intended b/c I am sOOooOO dorky!)

Right eye is seeing at 20/20 and left eye at 20/30. Woohoo! It is still amazing and unbelievable to think that it has only been less than 2 weeks since I went under the knife. It is such a blessing to wake up and be able to see (and to sleep that extra 5 minutes since I no longer go through the contacts routine).

(I can say what I'm going to say next b/c BF doesn't read my blog, but don't tell him that I blogged this!) BF said, "Wow! Now you can really see the handsomeness!" Of course referring to himself. And he is so right. :)

After the appointment, I rushed back home to clean and help BF prepare for our dinner guests. We rarely have people over so anybody coming over is a big event. Our Special Guests Bro and FBIL came over for a yummy dinner of grilled steaks and veggies, "Dexter," and a belated ice-cream cake (tradition that Mommy started). We really had a great time as always. After they left, I thought about how Bro told BSILF that a company he interviewed for was looking for a position in Chicago or NY; BSILF said to me, "OMG, I can't imagine what you would do if your Bro moved away!" And she is so right! I don't know! He is looking into a place out south of Mid-Wilshire, and I'm already panicking about how "far" that is.

I can't imagine how much more needy I would be towards my brother if I didn't have my handsomest BF...!

New Year's Eve Celebration

This year, BF and I didn't go out with a "big bang." We almost did go to Giant...but in light of us being sick for forever and a day, feeling too old for massive crowds in cold weather conditions, spending a lot for Christmas (and not wanting to spend more on Giant tickets), and CBnR staying home to watch Godson and Faux Godson, BF and I joined in Bro and FBIL's plans. :)

The day was quite relaxing. BF capitalized on his last opportunity to meet one of his 2007 resolutions of bowling 200. Six games and one ring finger blister later, he relayed with much disappointment that this would be a 2008 resolution. We came home and chilled until FBIL and Bro came over with delicious pizza and mojos! We watched an episode of Dexter (can't wait for the next season!) and then they left. For the next hour, we primped and prepped for our NYE par-tay at Lynnie's. I made a successful batch of brownies** and then they picked us up around 9PM.

**I am clearly not the brownie maker in this relationship, ever since I made a batch -- years ago -- that "tasted like feet." The culprit ingredient? I substituted... olive oil for vegetable oil. I have never been able to live this down! Thankfully, Christy felt for me...she can't live down the time when she made meatloaf...and substituted iceberg lettuce for celery!

We started getting our drink on right when we got in...and we ate some more! There was a nice spread of appetizers in addition to Bro and FBIL making delicious empanadas. Christy joined us around 10 and brought a ridiculous amount of fried chicken. We chilled, talked, and recapped about how our year went. Around 11:50PM, we started Creative Hour...everyone started drawing, coloring, or folding origami! Most of us drew the one thing or scene that we "always" drew when we were little. So of course I drew my random collage: tree, clouds, "m" birds, rabbit, bird, house, and Farmer Bob. Sadly, it really does look exactly like it did when I drew them as a 4 to 7 year-old! (Even more sad was that at that age range, I wanted to be an artist when I grew up!)

Bro had a little origami session going at one end of the table so he taught FBIL how to fold tulips and Christy how to fold a camera. I told them how when we were little, we used to draw "photos" and stick them in our "cameras" and take pictures. What happened after sent everyone over the edge -- Bro and Christy cut out pictures from magazines and took pictures of everyone. It was awesomely cheesy and hilarious. :)

Sometime in between, we counted down with KROQ for the last 10 seconds of 2007. Happy new year wishes, hugs, and kisses went around. Although only some of us had a good 2007, the general consensus was that 2008 will be better. It will be a good year.

We continued on with our Creative Hour (I think the ETOH had a big influence on Creative Hour beginning and continuing on), and I plugged away at a jigsaw puzzle for about 2 hours. I absolutely love doing puzzles and can sit for hours. I got a lot of, "how do you do it?" and really, the only thing I could think of is that I must have autistic tendencies (by proxy). I can find a piece and envision/know that it's the interlocking piece between two others. If I could, I would do puzzles all the time.

Random: BF keeps asking if I miss my kiddos and which are my favorite. I have a couple favorites, but my 320s take the cake. He constantly asks if I have a favorite 320...and I really don't. I love all five of them. Although I am not looking forward to working again, I am looking forward to seeing my kiddos, 320 or "regular special ed."

Shoot, I did tell one of my favorite regular SPED kiddos that one of my new year's resolution would be to be better prepared with therapy techniques and materials -- in his case, it means reading a book on how to remediate a lateral lisp. I better get going...

Happy new year!

Cousins Day II

I can't remember when our first Cousins Day happened, but I think we went to an Auto Zone or Mini Golfing place. I don't think we actually mini-golfed...or did anything except eat.

So I guess we were intent on making our second Cousins Day a success. And it really was! All cousins, sans Lawyer Cousin who was busy signing house ownership documents (woo-hoo!), first met up at Lucky Strikes at The Block in Orange. Even future-cousins-in-laws BF and FBIL were present. :) It was their first time meeting half of our cousins. We waited almost an hour and a half for two lanes and then almost all of us bowled one game. I had the 2nd or 3rd lowest score despite having full gear and all...Boo! I haven't bowled in so long (not that I'm using that as an excuse, although I sort of am) so my form was completely messy and inconsistent. I didn't even break 80. :(

Afterwards, we headed to Captain Cousin's house. It was my first time seeing their new house and it is fabulous! I love the model home look and feel and that was exactly what it looked and felt like, even complete with fabulous Christmas decorations. We all just hung out, ate, and chatted. Most of the boys watched the football game and talked shop for half of the time and then half went upstairs to play video games. The rest of us just chilled, ate more, and caught up. Cousin-in-Law (who lives two doors down) joined us for a bit, too.

We all left around 10:00 PM and wouldn't you know it, I still ended up getting us lost despite having a GPS. I blame it on Elsa; her compass has mysteriously disappeared, which has sent me into a state of panic whenever I drive.

Nonetheless, BF and I were in extremely good spirits so we had a leisure drive home despite taking a slight detour. All in all, Cousins Day II was a success!

Winter Break

Day 1 of Winter Break -- Thursday, December 20, 2007

Forget going to work! I started my Winter Break a day (or 2) earlier and hopped on a plane to Las Vegas! :) Bro dropped BF and I off at LAX. We were scheduled to depart at 8:51 AM but around 8:30 AM, they announced that our flight got canceled. Mayhem just about broke out, but since the announcer reminded us that "we are all going to be adults about this," people were upset but "being adult" about it all. In the meantime, BF hustled over to the next airline and scored us tickets on the next flight out. We didn't want to take any risks.

Our flight went just fine and we ended up meeting BF's parents at our usual meeting spot, Mandalay Bay. We went straight to Red Rock Casino, where we checked in and ate a brief lunch. We played a few penny slots before I went upstairs to rest and freshen up for dinner. Around 6:00 P.M., I started fretting b/c BF's Dad was picking us up at 6:15 and BF hadn't come up to the hotel room yet! When I got a hold of him, he said, "Guess what...I just won one thousand two hundred and twenty-seven dollars!!" Holy snikeys! Did I hear right?

I sure did! When I met him downstairs, he waved his W-2 form (yes, he received a W-2 form) and I took a picture of him in the lobby. :)

BF's Dad picked us up and we met his mom, sister, and aunt at Outback for dinner. I had 2/3 of my delicious prime rib special before sister got me all engaged in causal theories of autism. Afterwards, we went back to Red Rock and gambled a little more and had Ben & Jerry's. Shortly after, they left and BF and I gambled a little more. I got tired and went upstairs for a nice salt bath in front of a small plasma TV. After I fell asleep, BF came up shortly after.

Day 2 of Winter Break -- Friday, December 21, 2007

I got up and took another bath and then headed downstairs to lounge a bit, while BF slept in. We gambled a bit more (meaning I lost a bit more) and then I ate a quick lunch (in other words, 45 minutes for a burrito) while BF gambled some more. Eventually, BF's Dad picked us up and we went to his parents' place for a little get-together with his father's side. When we got there, I helped Tita from NY make a Waldorf salad (I learned how to make a fancy-sounding dish!). Afterwards, everybody went to Red Rock...where I finally won! I was down $100 and BF gave me another $100 that I lost...but then I won $100. :) Eventually, I retreated early again. BF said he'd be up soon, but he didn't get in until about 6 AM.

Day 3 of Winter Break -- Saturday, December 22, 2007

Since I knew BF would be sleeping in late, I got up and indulged in a yummy brunch buffet on my own. I really enjoyed it because it's rare that I can eat at my own slow pace and as much as I want. I out-ate 3 parties, I think. =P I lost another $15 before I retreated to the lobby and then got BF some Starbucks and went back upstairs. BF and I got ready for the family dinner holiday party and then headed downstairs to play some more...where I lost again. BF won another $200 right before his Dad picked us up. We got to the restaurant and helped set up a tiny bit. The party started between 6:30 - 7 and lasted until about 10:30.

BF's parents can sure host a party and his family can sure party! The event began with BF's dad giving a speech and then an uncle minister praying. We commenced dinner "Filipino style" and then Ate from SF played a slideshow. Later, a distant relative sang a Christmas song. Still later, the adults boogied down to a bunch of 70s and 80s songs. It was ridiculous in an awesome way. :) Throughout the evening, pictures were taken and printed and then gifts were given away to everyone. We all left and went back to Red Rock. I met BF's parents, Tita from NY, and SF Niece and partner at the Cafe to debrief a little bit over dessert. I had a drink or two, won a little bit, and quickly called it a night...

Day 4 of Winter Break -- Sunday, December 23, 2007

We woke up and checked out of our lovely room around 1 PM. We met with BF's family downstairs for a short hour before we hopped onto an airport shuttle. Since we got to the airport 3 hours early, BF and I checked out ALL of the stores. Along the way, I fell in love with the iSqueez from Brookstone. :) When it was time to board, wouldn't you know it, our plane was delayed for about 45 minutes. The flight was manageable since we had individual screens. I watched a bunch of nerdy medical stuff (e.g., neurosurgeries; procedure to stop PD tremors). Still, it felt like a long flight since both BF and I were sick. We landed in the Long Beach airport where BF and I got separated and I nearly had a panic attack b/c of the unknown territory and mass crowds. When I finally got outside to where the baggage claim was, I frantically asked the nearest smoker, how do I get like outside of this place?? He looked at me like I was nuts and pointed a few yards away. I totally felt like an idiot. Then I spotted BF a few yards away to the right "outside," in the usual spot where I pick him up. FBIL picked us up and we safely got home to our precious Lil F. Although Vegas was fun, there's no place like home, as they say.

Christmas Eve in SM

Today, I woke up and actually went to Costco. I got in and out of there alive, despite two people trying to yank my parking spots. After I gathered my things, I headed over to SM to meet my Medical Relatives, Genius Relatives, Daddy, Gramma, and Best Bro. We had a delicious potpourri of Chinese and American foods and desserts. Bro and I left around 9 PM since I wasn't feeling so well. Plus, I hadn't heard from BF all day, which made me nervous. Turns out he had slept a whopping 21 hours total, in his fight against his cold! Despite both of us being sick, it is nice that we got to spend Christmas both with our families and with each other. Merry Christmas!

Busy Weekend

Yesterday, my bro picked me up. When he saw my big-@$$ nerdy tote cart of stuff, he asked, "Why are you bringing all that home? We have a busy weekend!" Actually, it was a very busy and very fun weekend!

After he picked me up, we went to meet Dentist Aunty for some business stuff. Cousin Gnat and I were just there for the ride, but bro was needed since he moonlights as a real estate agent. That was probably the least fun part of the weekend, since we were there for like 2.5 hours. I ended up sitting in the car and reading a few pages of the PECS manual before I dozed off. Afterwards, bro and I zoomed home to Gramma.

We only reached San Marino when bro spotted a sign that signified that our elementary school was having a special event. After he guessed it was the annual school fair, we couldn't resist checking out the haps so we parked at the Junior High, walked down memory lane (a.k.a. the hallway from Huntington to Valentine) and even passed by the Kindergarten gate where my bro used to wave hello to me while I rode the tricycle. We finally ventured out onto the playground where the fair really was happening! We checked out several booths and reminisced about the good ol' times. Although lots has changed (Wolfgang Pucks was catering! WTH?!), some things still remain the same. The Cake Walk still takes place around the same location (and the cakes still look the same!). We quickly hopped back into Dad's car and straight shot home to Gramma's.

On our way home to Gramma's, I played with my newest techy toy. My dad and bro got me a Garmin Nuvi 650! This thing is AWESOME! More importantly, I so need it. I embarrass myself with how directionally-challenged I've become. With each aging year, my sense of direction decreases exponentially. Thankfully, Elsa came standard with a compass. Even more thankfully, my bro had the greatest sense of finding this for me!

Rewind: So earlier in the week, I spoke with Gramma who said, "Since it's your birthday, I will treat you out to dinner when you come home this weekend." I said, "No gramma, it's (finally) my turn to treat...especially since I got my first paycheck!" She laughed and then said, "Oh! Okay." :)

So when we got to Gramma's Saturday afternoon, we picked her up for dinner. Bro made the excellent suggestion of the Melting Pot, which neither gramma nor I have ever been to. Unfortunately, we found out when we got there that reservations were usually required for the busy weekends, and it seemed like many of the people were dressed nicely. Luckily, the assistant manager finagled a spot for us (basically, if the 5:00 RSVP didn't show up by 5:30, then we could get their table). We got lucky; we were promptly seated at 5:30.

We went all out and ordered the Big Night Out. Our dinner began with the spinach artichoke cheese fondue where we dipped breads, vegetables, and green apples. Shortly after, I had a spinach and portabello mushroom salad which I promptly switched with my bro for his California salad. Next, we had the Coq au Vin Fondue Fusion. Lastly, we had the Flaming Turtle chocolate fondue. Bro and gramma also had white wine and champagne. The entire meal and experience was wonderful!

I was just really happy to finally bring my bro and gramma out to eat. I was also really glad that bro suggested this place. :)

Afterwards, we stopped by Home Depot (the 2nd least fun part of the weekend for me) and then we were home. I was knocked out by 10:30 or 11.

This morning, we rushed out to Santa Anita Oak Tree (Race Track) for the Breeders' Cup Challenge Day. This was my 3rd time at a horse race and even though I don't bid, it's still really exciting to watch and cheer (especially when there's an upset during the last few seconds). Dentist Aunty's family met us there and we watched a few more races. Dentist Aunty picked 2 horses...but sadly, both came in last place and 2nd to the last place for that one race. Haha. :) We parted ways then and Bro and I picked up some Chinese food for dinner (and for our S.O.) before we headed back home.

Now, Lil F and I are waiting for BF to come home. He spontaneously flew out to Vegas yesterday to visit his parents and best friend and to watch the Pacquiao vs. Barrera match (funny, random thing is that he ran into his rapper cousin and other cousin last night at a club).

What a busy but fun weekend!

2.6 Miles

This morning, BF woke me up at 6 AM again. This time, it was b/c he had woken up around 4 AM due to food poisoning. :( Poor boo-boo. We had some delicious home-brewed Sbux coffee and then we just relaxed a little bit before I called FBIL up to see what the AM haps was.

Shortly after, FBIL picked me up to go hiking in Temescal Canyon. We actually did the reverse full hike of the Full Moon Hike, which is 2.6 miles! We did it in about an hour and five minutes...but I seriously thought I wasn't going to make it. That mofo is intense! It's literally 30-35 minutes of steep incline hiking. I thought I was about to get a heat-stroke so I had to sheepishly ask FBIL to stop for a few seconds so that I could catch my (heaving) breath and quench my parched throat. So much for thinking I was relatively healthy, despite my 50-min cardio sessions (maybe b/c my frequency is too low! In addition to low endurance).

It was still a very nice hike with the cool breeze, warm sunshine, and gorgeous view of L.A. at the peak point. I thought it was especially pleasant that 99% of the hikers we passed greeted us (or responded to our greetings). It stood out to me because when I go for walks around the hood here (and it's not like the Hood), people don't make eye contact and/or ignore my greetings. It's bizarre. (Do I look like a criminal?)

After that, I came home and chillaxed with the BF. By this time, he was convinced he had E. Coli (from something I bought him yesterday -- not something I cooked!) so he made me look up treatment. I was really glad that an antibiotic we have in our cupboards can be taken. Actually, I was so relieved and anxious to give it to him that when I exclaimed, "Do you want some now?" he quipped, "No! I can't take it on an empty stomach! OMG, you're trying to kill me!"

Holy snikeys, talk about Drama King! He's much better now, though (thank God, for reals). I am seriously so nervous about his well-being as we embark halfway across the world next week. All this time, I'm IMing Younger Genius Cousin, who is like, "Wow, you must have a lot of discipline to work at home." That made me wonder, do I really have ADD or am I just too distracted? (Or is that the same thing? Shoot, I guess it could be considered the same thing.)

Thank goodness BF doesn't read my blog. =P

ADD Confirmed

I just made some low-fat peach fro-yo and was scraping off the remains from the cooler thingamajiggy in front of the TV ("summer vacation" rules!). BF was channel-surfing and deciding b/t two movies, when he concluded that we could watch one On-Demand later. He switched back to Godfather II and said, "You haven't seen this movie, huh?"

I had a deer-in-headlights-expression because I was embarrassed that he has discovered yet another classic that I have not watched.**

He said, "You haven't! Because you have an attention span of a two-year old!"

=O My ADD is no longer a secret in our relationship!

Just this AM, he was asking me why I always fall asleep during movies. I am beginning to think it is a hereditary thing. When we were younger, my gramma used to always fall asleep to movies. Now, I totally do.

**My bro read me some of his old journal entries a few nights ago from when he was in Japan. One night, he wrote something about how it's nice that BF & I are together now because we watch more movies. Hahahaha!

Update: BF just said, "I know why you can't watch Godfather...because you need subtitles!" Yet another secret that is no longer a secret! I missed about 60% of dialogue in "Shooter" b/c Marky Mark mumbled about 80% of the time he spoke. Yet I understand KidSpeak. Nice.

Another Movie Date

Today, I met my movie-watching quota for the rest of this year and next. BF and I went to the movie theater again! That's twice in less than 4 weeks! This must be another blatant sign that I am (almost) no longer a student. Yay!

At noon on the dot, we had lunch at the Cheesecake Factory overlooking the Marina (beautiful day), and then we watched The Simpsons Movie. (I had no idea that the 7-11 just down the street from us on Venice was only one of 11 across the that was transformed into a Kwik-E-Mart!) BF has been a huge Simpsons fan from the get-go so he was intent on "splurging" and watching it in the the theater. (Is it sad that this is what we consider splurging?)

Afterwards, we hit Best Buy and got 4 DVDs. I can't stand zombie flicks, but somehow, Shaun of the Dead is one of my favorites. Besides, Simon Pegg's stuff is hysterical. So we had to get Hot Fuzz the day it came out. :D

Random: we continued our Icee/Slurpie/Slushee frenzy by having an Icee during the Simpsons Movie and a coke Slurpie after Best Buy.

Ice-Cream Party

My reward for dealing with the cable company for literally 4 hours? Ice-cream!

BF was on his way out and he asked me, what do you want? Of course I want ice-cream!

He came home with 4 cartons. :D BF totally rules!

4th of July

I've been asking BF about 4th of July plans since last week b/c I love BBQs and fireworks. Since we just got a grill, he said, "no promises, but if anything, we can just grill here." So at first, the party was just gonna be us two, but then we invited a few homies (who invited a few homies). Turns out that today was the biggest gathering at Chez C&C, yet! :)

We were so delighted that everyone showed up. First was FBM and BF's Godson, then bro, Rose, & Lynnielove, then bro's friend and adorable 2 y/o son, and last but definitely not least, BSILF and hubby! They stayed the latest, which was nice; after a frenzied day of hosting, it was relaxing to end on an intimate setting with great friends. It was a great day of laughter and yummy food. I even grilled mushrooms, white corn, and drumsticks for nostalgic and appetite-satiating purposes.

By the end of the evening, BF and I were pooped! We ended our evening doing our typical 4th of July viewing of fireworks from our balcony. Unlike last year, we barely caught sight of 3 firework fanfares (vs. 5 last year). There is something nice and peaceful in us two viewing fireworks from the privacy of our balcony...and then walking 3 steps to get back home.

All in all, my bro said, "you pulled off a very successful BBQ." I could definitely get used to hosting more parties/BBQs. :) I've been watching a lot of TV and those s'more commercials are definitely taking a toll on me...!

Happy Birthday to the Best BF Ever!

Today is BF's big 30th birthday!

(He doesn't like big hoop-las but since he doesn't read this blog anyways, I'm going to continue with my big sap-fest.)

I am so proud of all the things that he has accomplished for himself before he turned 30. I've only known him for 5 years, yet I've seen him change for the better in so many respects. Most of all, I'm so happy that he has accomplished what he envisioned doing before he turned 30. He is successful with his own company...albeit a small company (he is the CEO, Art Director, Graphic Artist, etc.). Actually, his company also consists of an assistant somewhere in the Midwest, an Executive Personal Assistant (yours truly), and Lil F (office decoration and in-house therapist).

I have so much faith and optimism in the even bigger things he will accomplish in the next 10 years. I love him to pieces and am excited that at the turn of this decade in his life, we are beginning a new chapter in our lives together.

He is the best BF ever! XXOOxOXo

Last Week of Rehab

My last week of rehab had quite a sobering effect on me. After 11 weeks of flying by the seat of my panties and learning through trial-and-error, asking dumb questions (which I am particularly a G at), and researching (what did we used to do w/o the internet?), I realized how much I've learned this past quarter...and how much more I need to learn.

It was really scary yet exhilarating for doctors and patients' family members to speak to me as if I was the professional (did they know that when I introduced myself as Graduate Student, it meant I did not have my degree nor license yet?). But my MC was right -- the more I speak, the more confidence I gain, and the more I realize that I actually do know what I'm talking about. Well, for the most part.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

On Tuesday, many of us went to Grand Lux for a good-bye lunch for me and the PT Student. It was a little hectic for me (as are many of my days) b/c I had crammed all of my rounds in the AM and was unexpectedly expected at a family conference right after lunch. After that, I zoomed over to school for my Oral Defense...which I thankfully passed with a bit of head-nodding in agreement to my own statements.

On Wednesday, I couldn't believe I only had one more day and I couldn't wait until Thursday. On Thursday, I couldn't believe it was my last day. It was like any other one of my "bad" days...where I made one mistake after another. i.e., I misunderstood one not-the-brightest-crayon-in-the-box doc for saying he'd take out my patient's G-tube instead of trach. i.e., I explained aspiration precautions to my patient, which sent him almost into an anxiety attack (suddenly, he could "feel" himself silently aspirating). A few other mishaps took place, but fortunately, I walked out at 4 P.M. with an "A" in this chapter/quarter of my life and felt proud of myself for doing the best that I could have.

In celebration, I stopped by Carl's Jr. to buy BF a 6 dollar burger (after all, it was Burger Day and as BF swears, "all good things happen on Burger Day") and myself some fried zucchinis (I've decided that those are one of my favorite foods). Soon after, FBIL, Guh, and I went to the Walt Disney Concert Hall to listen to the Los Angeles Master Chorale in Sounds of the City. It was very interesting, relaxing, and wonderful. I think I once told my bro that someday, I want to get season tickets to the concert hall. Wouldn't that be nice?

That night, I got home and completely crashed. I fell asleep with the thought of graduating the next day...!

Not yet M.A., but 1/3 closer to CCC

Great news! BSILF, CHK, and I passed the Praxis! We are that much closer to being nationally licensed and obtaining the CCC after our name.

Congratulations to us!

The day of the news was actually very exciting. I got the day off to attend our Graduate Banquet. That morning, BF and I went to the P.O. to apply for his new passport for our celebratory China trip. On my way to the banquet, BSILF called me up and we chit-chatted. I completely blanked on what day it was. At the end of our chat, BSILF said, "I have an important question for you." "Hm?" "Did you call?" I was like, "What? Call who?" I can't imagine her expression of disbelief on the other line. I completely blanked that friday was the day that we could call in to receive our scores!

Well, a little background. I'm the type that waits to open gifts. If it's a Christmas gift, I like to wait until Christmas Eve or Day. If it's my birthday, I like to wait until then. Same with results. I don't mind waiting until it arrives in the mail. So in my mind, I had already settled on doing that...and completely forgotten about it. =P BF, however, was very intent on me calling in at first chance.

BSILF: Y'know, the Praxis!
Me: OMG! I totally forgot! Did you call?
BSILF: Yep.
Me: Congratulations, you must have passed, huh! :)

And she certainly did. Not that I had any doubt! Still, it was very exciting to hear!

At the banquet, we had a mini-reunion with our colleagues and mentors. And I strategically sat near the dessert table. =P Being at the banquet made me realize that we are seriously that much closer to being done with school and becoming professionals. It's a great feeling.

Afterwards, Bruce Lee's Cousin, CIA Rat B, and BSILF came over to (check out Lil F and to) work on our oral defense forms. When BF found out that both Cold-Hearted K (who is really quite the opposite of cold-hearted) and BSILF had passed the Praxis, he (no surprise) insisted that I call in for my results. The (cheap) chicken that I am, had him call.

He heard the results first, and then passed the phone to me. I passed! Yay! The craziest thing is that BSILF and I got the same score (even though traditionally, her score should be higher!) We've been through thick and thin together for the past 2-3 years so what could be better than to have some of them around to share in the good news? :) Unfortunately, CIA Rat B and Bruce Lee's Cousin had to go, but BSILF's Hubby came over and the 4 of us went to Island's to celebrate.

And celebrate we did. Thanks, BSILF and Hubby for the delicious meal and wonderful company!