I'm Free!

Today was my last day of ESY. Woohoo! Vacation is finally here!

I've slowly been transitioning into summer vacation since last week. Since one of my caseloads ended summer school last Friday, I've been galavanting more and more.

Last Friday night was Gramma's 83rd Chinese birthday, so we celebrated with dinner at Full House Seafood restaurant. It was a little more intimate since half of our family was MIA, but it was still very cozy, delicious, and festive. After dinner, we went to Dentist Aunty's for cake.

(Chinese bakery cakes are sooOooOOo delicious!)

We were fortunate to have Pastor Aunty with us to celebrate. She loved the necklace I gave Gramma...so much that she put it on and had me take a picture (to send to her daughters to find for her).

Pastor Aunty is so cute. She had me take 5 pictures before she okay'd the one above.

On Saturday, I went to a co-worker's retirement party in Redondo Beach. It's bittersweet for me since we became good friends during my first year of work but then I missed out on working with her last year b/c of the dramatic assignment change. Now that I'm returning to my original assignment in the Fall, she won't be there! I am happy for her, though, and wish her the very best.

On Sunday, I finally got to see celebrity Aunty from New york and meet her husband and baby boy. I was pleasantly surprised to see my Mom's best friend there, too!

I certainly enjoyed the company and amazingly humongous spread. I ate and talked and ate and talked. My aunts and Gramma were there, too, which led to interesting family history being revealed. (Turns out the rich lady doctor that wanted to adopt me when I was born was actually yoldest aunt's husband's medical colleague.) After they left, I chatted some more and followed Aunty Jeany around while she chased her handsome (and cute) baby boy. Their baby boy is already almost two years old!

It was a real fun-filled weekend. Well worth the exhaustion. ;)

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. :)

Visiting Pastor Aunty - Day 2

On Saturday, we decided not to go to SF but went to the local Westfield mall instead. After 2 hours, Gramma and Pastor Aunty had only finished shopping at Macy's! Never mind how ginormous the mall is. We ended up having lunch at the Food Court and my bro built a HUGE Mongolian BBQ tower. (Sadly, this is the ONLY picture I took all weekend.)


We were so proud of our tower! See the one farther away? That guy cheated -- he had to hold his up with a hand. But just when we thought we had won the competition, this little Asian lady totally schooled us 3 bowls down the line. Her tower was even taller and while she waited, she had a handful of broccoli crowns that was strategically placing in crevices.

After lunch, we shopped for another 3 hours! Well, the two "old ladies" did. Gees, they can out-shop us any day of the week and twice on Sundays (or Saturdays). The ironic thing is that I really don't like shopping! I got really lucky though, b/c as I waited with Gramma at one point, Doctor Cousin found a cute sweater jacket...so I picked two up! (I hate shopping in big department stores b/c I don't like going through racks upon racks.) Pastor Aunty purchased them for us as a New Year's gift. :)

We finally left the mall around 4:30 and went back to Pastor Aunty's to kick it before meeting up with Attorney Cousin and Older Genius JD-MBA Cousin for dinner at a yummy Chinese restaurant (where they had a special ox-tail pumpkin dish). Afterward, we went to Attorny Cousin's to have dessert and kick it a little bit before she had to go back for a late Saturday night of work.

We went back to Pastor Aunty's and stayed up late talking. Come to think of it, that sounds so "old Taiwanese lady"-ish. That's exactly what my aunts do (with Gramma) whenever they visit!

We leave tomorrow morning...so that I can get back to get amped about going back to work. Boo!

Visiting Pastor Aunty - Day 1

All Winter Break, I didn't do much except lolligag and spend the holidays with my loved ones. It was soOOoOO nice to be on break. At the spur of the moment (sort of), Bro asked if I wanted to head up North with him and Gramma to visit Pastor Aunty, Attorney Cousin, and Doctor Cousin. So, Bro picked me up this morning and then we picked Gramma up from SM before going on our merry way up the stinky 5.

We got to Milpitas around 5, where Doctor Cousin happily greeted us at the door. Apparently, car-less and friend-less, she was bored all week and couldn't wait for us to get there. Pastor Aunty prepared a delicious meal...which made me realize I hadn't eaten her cooking in literally years. Quite honestly, I forgot that she is quite a chef. Actually, all of my aunts (sans the youngest aunt -- sorry Genius Cousins!), Daddy, and Gramma are excellent chefs. My Bro is so good, too. H2B doesn't believe I'm talented, but I beg to differ. (It's just that I don't eat red meat much. He thinks that the only thing I know to cook is mofo'n awesome miso salmon.)

After dinner, Doctor Cousin, Bro, and I went to the Great Mall for an hour, then headed to Lucky. It was so funny b/c right away, Dr. Cuz and Bro grabbed beers, candy, and popcorn and said to me, you have no idea how boring it is here. I guess I was lucky b/c it was my first time up at Pastor Aunty's, so these seasoned pros knew exactly how to keep us entertained for the weekend. (I was wondering why my Bro brought his laptop.)

We also rented from the $1 DVD machine outside. We were cracking up when we selected The Bank Job and Dr. Cuz had to "agree" to the disclaimer about the movie being Rated-R. Later on, we were totally mortified when the beginning scenes had so much gratuitous nudity and seks. Thankfully, Gramma and Pastor Aunty had went upstairs. After the movie, we hit the sack.

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

Happy American Birthday, Gramma!

Although Gramma "Pearl" is an official U.S. citizen, she usually doesn't plan on celebrating her "American" birthday since we always celebrate her Chinese birthday (which took place in June this year). However, us Americans in the family usually do a little celebration anyways. :)

We had dropped Gramma off at Aunty's in Torrance on Sunday and then my brother and I agreed to go back out on Tuesday. Before I headed towards the South Bay, I stopped by Angel Maid bakery to pick up a strawberry cake (their special mango cake has to be pre-ordered a day ahead!), a box of cream puffs, some macaroons for FBIL, and cookies for BF. I dropped them off at Bro's office before I headed to my BCBA meeting.

Of course I was the only one at the BCBA meeting. I'm pretty used to it since this has been the case since mid-July. It's like getting free individualized tutoring that's typically around $75-100/hour. I'm sure I've surpassed my need for individual supervision hours so I'm that much closer to finishing this program and taking that scary exam.

After the meeting, I made my way to Aunty's house (stopping by two stores beforehand). I lollygagged with their adorable, nappy-furred sheltie, Cookie, until my Genius Uncle, Genius Younger Cousin, and Bro got home. Shortly after, we went to King's Hawaiian Restaurant.

I have never been there before, but you know I love those King's Hawaiian bread rolls! The bakery case was full of delicious treats! We passed on getting any since we had cake and cream puffs at Aunty's house. Dinner was delicious as expected; we had King's Hawaiian bread rolls to start (Gramma and I had 3 each!) and I had a macadamia-crusted mahi mahi.

Afterwards, we headed back to Aunty's house. Since we were too full, we sang happy birthday to Gramma twice (once in English and once in Chinese), and packed some cake to go. :)

Happy 82nd birthday, Gramma!

Another Masters in the Family!

Congratulations to FBIL!

Today, Brian graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles, with a Master of Social Welfare! We are so proud of him and extremely happy for him!

I have known Brian for about 9 or 10 years. He has become such a big part of my life and it's an honor to know him. Brian is a man of integrity, sincerity, and honesty. And he is a man of compassion. He had a vision to change the world one person at a time, and he pursued it.

For the past two years, Brian has undergone the study of social welfare on a micro level. He has devoted countless hours to working with individuals, families, and groups. Last summer, he traveled to Ghana to work with individuals with HIV and AIDS. He has counseled so many individuals and groups of teenagers already at the end of their road. Just within two years as a protege, he has changed so many individuals. I have to admit, I have been really excited about him being in the program as we have had so much to talk about from disabilities to how our disciplines cross and collaborate to help individuals.

Although he has always been genuinely involved in the welfare of others, we couldn't be any more excited about him embarking on his career with his MSW! Congratulations, FBIL!

Happy Mommy's Day!

Happy Mother's Day to all the mommies and mommies-to-be!

I barely made it in time to wish my mommy a Happy Mother's Day. I just called her a few moments ago, right when she was about to fall asleep. It's been difficult getting a hold of her, now that she doesn't have a cell phone any more...Bro and I are hoping to bring her out next weekend since she didn't have time this weekend.

Today was another booked day. I went to church, and then came home for BF to put my spare tire on before I headed over to help bro move a carload of stuff over to their new place. Their place is really coming along. On Wednesday, I went over to put primer on their closet and bedroom walls. When I saw their place today, their bathroom tiles were already finished and their bedroom and closet walls were painted. :) Hopefully, their kitchen and bathroom will be finished soon! They're place is going to look fabulous.

Later, we all met around 5 P.M. to celebrate with the Moms on my dad's side by meeting up at the Daily Grill in Santa Monica (sans oldest Aunt and her family). We had a wonderful time having a gang of appetizers, a few drinks (i.e., a like 5 sips of beer for me), and delicious desserts. All the women also got $15 gift cards in honor of Mother's Day! That was so neat! Afterwards, we went to Third Street Promenade and walked the whole length and back. I am reminded as to why I am easily entertained (i.e., it must be genetic).

One of the first performers we came across was a duo breakdancing and popping & locking. Gramma immediately sat down but their performance ended shortly and they humorously asked for tips. It was so cute -- Gramma (who doesn't understand English very well) pulled a bill out, walked over to the big container in the middle of the crowd, and dropped her donation in! Shortly after a few others donated, the party/performance continued. :) Gramma totally rules. And she is so hip, being all into the dance moves!

It was really nice to spend time with the family and appreciate the mothers who have done so much for us.

Moving Sale

Earlier this month, Bro closed escrow on a triplex! It has been a while since he started and finally, this wonderful opportunity surfaced. It is a cute fixer-upper...and I have no doubt that Bro and FBIL will work their magic and their charm. I can't wait to see them settled in. Woohoo! :) (That means that I am one-step closer to having a doggie in my immediate family!)

Since they intend to move by the beginning of way, they held a moving sale today. I got to their place around 8 and Tita Dina arrived soon after. We, along with Rose, were the moving sale keepers until about 1, when we called it quits, as the weather changed from freezing at 9 AM to blazing hot at noon. I managed to sell about $16 worth of my stuff (3 x $5 for a table, two-piece top set, foot spa, and purse for $1). I also 'donated' a bunch of stuff to be distributed through Tita Dina (she kept two knock-off scarves, will give two knock-off purses to The Girls, and two dresses to high school girls who do not have the money to purchase dresses for their school dances).

Sadly, I could have broke the $20 mark, but I totally got juked for $5! The girl that bought my table for $5 played me! She also took two of my lamps and claimed she paid Tita Dina for them. I was so mad, but what was I to do? She insisted that she did and Tita Dina insisted that she didn't. I let her go. :( I was even more irked since I had just spent half an hour with her as she got a free SLP consultation re: her supposed problem (which made me feel incompetent b/c I really didn't see her "problem" as much of a problem. Nor did her ENT.). I kept telling her that her thing is not my area of expertise, too.

Anywho, I should let bygones be bygones I suppose. Unless the girl contacts me (she asked for my contact info so I gave her my company work address...which I barely check).

After that, we headed over to the triplex to do some work. Only, I didn't do much work. I just moved 8 paint cans up 2 flights of stairs (4 trips), slothed around while the cool breeze relaxed me, talked my bro's ears off as usual, and then Tita Dina and FBIL came back with delicious Mexican food from a local joint. I had 'sope' for the first time and a few bites of una torta. All very delicious! I left when Bro and FBIL had just begun painting the downstairs unit's main room.

I was so sleepy (residual effects from yesterday, plus stayed up until 2 reading textbook) that I came home and took a 2 hour nap. The good news is that I only have 5 more pages of text to read!

Mini Cousins' Day

I've been lucky enough to have my grad assistant(GA) with me this entire week, so all of my kiddos are getting serviced proper this week. :) Today, I saw my 1st through 5th period kiddos as scheduled.

After my sessions, I actually gave myself a lunch break for once. I was thinking about heading to the gym, but by the time I left (still later than planned), I didn't think I'd have enough time. On the other hand, I didn't want to get to my BCBA meeting so early. Then I had a brilliant idea. Why not call Younger Genius Cousin and see if he was free?

Turns out Older Genius Cousin was home, too! So I headed over to their house (and played with their cutie-pie doggy). We headed out for Chipotle, but ended up having ramen instead. After our delicious lunch, we drove across the plaza and decided at the last minute to have Jamba Juice! (I love smoothies and wonder why I don't have them more often!)

I had a GREAT time just hanging out with them two. I was cracking up every other minute either at our conversations or the interactions between the brothers. Too funny. :) It was really such a special treat for me to hang out with just them, in the middle of the week, and in the middle of a work day!

I reluctantly left for my BCBA meeting. :( I hope to see them again before they head back up North for school. Thanks cousins!

Happy Easter!

He is risen and alive!

Even though I've been going to church a lot more regularly since maybe mid-summer of last year, I still have not made the "move" to become a member. Today, I invited my brother to attend Easter service with me. I've been plotting it for a month, but for whatever lame reason, I've been nervous about asking him (mainly b/c I really want him to come with me and am afraid he will reject my invite. Do I sound like one of those crazy religious nuts who really wants to convert someone?). When I invited him, he jokingly said, "It better be entertaining." I was secretly jumping for joy when he agreed and especially happy that he enjoyed the message and service. (He also did find the service entertaining.)

Afterwards, we went home and I baked Marie Callendar's corn bread and my "specialty," Cocoa Krispies treats. Shortly after, I headed to Tita Dina's house for her annual Easter get-together. I had such a blast as always. I remembered when I first started going over. All of the kids were little and shorter than me. Today, I couldn't believe how fast all the kids have "suddenly" grown. One recently graduated from college! (I remember when Bro and FBIL were helping her pack for college!)

The best part of the gathering is that there is so much love in the atmosphere. Everyone present is considered family. :) Every year, the get-together has some new faces present and some old faces missing...so even though some of the kids weren't there (i.e., FBIL's nephew), we had a special guest! BSILF came!

I had completely blanked on inviting BSILF, so thankfully, Bro did! Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on how you look at it), she was working so she was only a few minutes away! We were all extremely excited to see her, me especially! We were bummed that BSILF's hubby couldn't make it ("he is such a swell guy.") but definitely glad that she was present. BF was absent, too, since he was working on the Top of the Swirl project.*

*Did I ever mention that he will get free fro-yo for life?? Too bad he doesn't even like fro-yo/Pinkberry!!

We talked and ate until the sun set. It was truly a wonderful holiday surrounded by loved ones.

Mommy!

(The title was meant to be said in a J320 way; he often enthusiastically says, "Mommy!" when I show him a picture of his mom.)
Tonight, Bro and I visited Mom at Hsi Lai Temple in Hacienda Heights. Thanks to our summer trip to China, I was actually really looking forward to seeing the temple in its Chinese New Year decor. When we got there, we walked around and took a few pictures before we found Mom in a room.
Mom was seated behind a desk talking to visitors who had patiently waited in line for the next available monk. It wasn't long before Bro and I sat down, and I immediately subtly horded my favorite Chinese "lucky" candy. We also gave Mom a traditional red envelope. In return, she gave Bro and I each a charm. My charm has four Chinese characters translating into: "Prosperous Future Generations":

"With virtue, you will be respected. With achievements, you will be adored. With magnanimity, you will be acclaimed. With tolerance, you will be followed." Dharma Thoughts of Master Hsing Yun

Bro got a charm with characters translating into "Harmonious Conditions in All." Mom explained that the people she spoke to were sent from somewhere else, after they received a book on teachings, to ask Mom and the other monks any questions they may have and to hear them impart their wisdom and knowledge of dharma. It was very awe-inspiring...and also funny how Mom commented on the side afterwards about all of this.
After a few minutes of catching up, she quickly got up and told the neighboring monk that she was going to show "these two" around (I don't think the other monk knew that we are her kids). When we walked outside, she said, "boy, sometimes these visitors are really difficult to talk to! They come to me like I'm a fortune teller and keep asking question after question! I can share with them Buddha's teachings but I can't tell them their future!" LOL

Bro commented to her how her lifestyle is similar to that of a therapist; people come to her for guidance and clarity. (Bro has been running with this idea of how many religious leaders are like therapists, including my Minister Aunty.) Anywho, Mom shared about how she helps people understand and share Buddhism...and likened it to how I help people understand and communicate the understanding. That was kind of neat...because all along, I wasn't quite sure if she understood what I do for a living.

We walked around some more and took more pictures. Mom seemed really happy to back in L.A. She laughed and joked with us a lot during the hour that we spent with her. It was really wonderful to see her and spend time with her. We left promising that we would visit again soon.

Afterwards, Bro and I stopped by the Chinese supermarket down the way and then ate at Dumpling Master. Much to our surprise, it was definitely better than we expected (and it had an "A" rating!).

Mom is back!

My Mom is back in Los Angeles!

A few weeks ago, Mom spoke to my brother and e-mailed us her plane itinerary. My bro said to her, "Mom, it's only a one-way ticket...Does that mean you're moving back??" She said, "Well, actually...I'm not sure. I won't know until I get back to LA."

When I heard the news, I was like, holy snikeys! What a surprise! (If she does indeed move back.) Actually, my mind was racing -- what will it be like? What does it mean? How will things be?

When I was in my 2nd year of college, Mom called me at UCSD and said she was permanently moving to Texas. It was quite a shock. I think my bro and I did get to say good-bye, but under very strange and emotional circumstances. It has been 7-8 years since Mom moved to Texas.

I just called her and was so happy to hear her. She sounded really good. The first thing she asked me was, "Are you happy that I'm back?" I said, "Of course I'm happy." Then it donned on me that she was asking, Are you happy that I'm back for good? Yeah! I asked, "Are you excited to be back?" She laughed and said, "I'm not a kid; I'm old -- I don't get "excited" about things. But I am definitely happy to be back."

I am definitely happy for her, too. She never really said it was a bad thing (i.e., miserable) to be in Texas, but just now, she said, it is better for her to be back for health reasons, which I certainly agree. She said the weather is nicer and she can exercise more by walking around the temple. I think, too, that (God forbid) if her health condition gets more serious, at least there is much more accessible medical intervention and she is just a drive away.

It is nice for her to be back.

I liken it to how my Gramma and my relationship is. Gramma and I don't talk much (and I've come to accept this oddity) but just my mere presence is comforting and securing. Despite my mom and I rarely talking and seeing each other, it is comforting to know that Mom is in the same county (vs. half a nation away).

Happy Birthday, Daddy!

Happy birthday, Daddy! (cha cha cha)

It's hard for me to believe/accept that my dad is 58. I still look at him like a big kid. I really think that's where my bro and I get our silliness and sense of humor from. I can clearly remember when we were younger, my dad playing practical jokes on us and telling the most comical stories of when he was a youth...playing practical jokes on his siblings.

I also remember when he would wake my bro and I up at like 5 or 6 AM to surprise us with a mini-family ski trip to Big Bear. He loved to surprise us...also because he knew that if he told us the night before, we would be too excited to sleep (or that may have been moreso my brother). I remember, too, the early mornings that Dad would drive an hour to drop us off at school. We always made a morning stop to get a donut (or holes) and chocolate milk (at least for me).

What I love about my Dad is that he has always openly shown his love for us. I remember thinking one day about how he defies that Asian stereotype of not showing affection. Ever since I can remember, Dad has always hugged and kissed us, and had us sit on his lap (until we outgrew that). To this day, he tells us he loves us when we end a phone conversation. And when I reciprocate, "I love you," he always says with emphasis, "Thank you." Thank you for your love.

Today, Bro and I wanted to do something extra special by bringing Dad out to dinner. We have been talking about bringing Dad to one of our favorite restaurants, Porterhouse Bistro, for so long now so I finally made reservations a few weeks ago. Now, Dad is not the type to go all out for things...he is always looking out for our well-being; translation -- he wants us to save as much as we can. So when I told him that we are going to Beverly Hills for dinner, he was really hesitant. I told him that we had already made reservations and besides, we've wanted to bring him here for a while, so he acquiesced. (What a fancy word, huh?)

We met at the restaurant around 5:30 with the Birthday Dad and honorary guests, Ama and Aunty Joanne. :) We had a really great time, enjoying the meal and company. Somehow, the 5 of us couldn't finish the meal for 4! At the end of the meal, we sang "happy birthday" to my Dad and he blew out the candle in the cotton candy.

To walk it off, we dragged Dad to the Beverly Center so we could find Ama's very belated Christmas gift. Our first stop was the pet store...which my dad apparently frequents often. Bro was going to find the men's room when he came back and said, "look, under the stairwell -- it's Adam Sandler!" I was all star-struck! I kept sneaking peeks at him, as he sat there all scruffy-looking with a stroller in front of him. At one point, a lady and her little girl stood next to me to look at the adorable labrador retriever puppy and I had a strong hunch that they were Sandlers. Later on, I saw the three of them walking away. I was still star-struck, even after they left my sight.

To end the evening, we were successful in finding Ama a new pair of Gucci shades at Bloomies. Like my dad, she was hesitant in having us spend that much, but my bro, being the natural salesman that he is, gave his usual pitches ("There's no price on looking stylish"; "if you wear it all the time -- wherever you go -- you get the value back"; "Gramma, you wear things for like 10+ years so to buy one pair is totally worth it"; "You look soOOoOOooo stylish in them Gramma") and away we walked with a Small Brown Bag. We could tell Gramma really liked them b/c she kept taking them out to look at them and trying them on. She was funny, though; she said, "With such expensive shades, Gramma better not get kidnapped!" LOL
(**I've always found it interesting that Gramma refers to herself in the 3rd person when she speaks to us. I'm not sure why. Is it a Taiwanese elder thing? I'll have to ask Aunty Joanne, mother of Genius Cousins.)

Soon after, we came home to Gramma's and Dad went home. All in all, it was a great evening.

Happy birthday, Dad! I love you!

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...!

Bro's 31st Birthday

Yesterday, my bro celebrated his birthday with several close friends. Funny because I recall my brother saying last year that he wanted FBIL to plan a huge event, like a mini-trip with a bunch of people. But as his day drew nearer, what he wanted most was a chill evening with his closest friends.

We started off with Korean BBQ at Cham Sut Gol (a.k.a. The Cave). It was kind of a mini-China-Trip reunion, since most of us haven't seen each other since August. (My, how time flies) BSILF and Hubby came, too, which we were all excited about! :) After several platters of meat (Mommy would be so disappointed in us!), we had delicious birthday cake from JJ's bakery. Afterwards, we promptly left for our karaoke reservation at Rosen.

We got to Rosen around 7:30 and got right down to business. BSILF asked if I was going to sing and I told her honestly, "Only if my bro makes me...which I'm sure he will." Sure enough, he did...but it was fun and nice. The first song we sang together was Mr. Big's "To Be With You." I was thrilled! I haven't heard nor thought of that song in at least a decade! We didn't score 100, but we sure sang our hearts out. ;) We were definitely not leaving until somebody scored 100...and the dynamic dual that won it all was none other than BSILF and FBIL with Madonna's "Papa Don't Preach."
The funny thing is that we were all home pretty much by 10 or 10:30, yet I know I felt like I had a full night out! Man, I just can't hang like I used to. Heck, I haven't been able to hang like when I was 21, since I was 21!

It was really a fun night and most importantly, my brother had a blast.

Happy Birthday, Ben!

Today is the best of the best of the bestest big brothers birthday! Happy birthday, Guh!

He is the type of guy that gets along with anyone. He has sisters that he has only met once, thanks to me. :) Just this past Monday, CJ asked, "how's our brother doing?" Haha. :) People want to be around him (or related to him) because he is an all-around stand up guy.

I love my brother with all my heart. With the priceless wisdom gleamed from the fabulous and not-so-fabulous life experiences, my bro has always been the best brother, counselor, therapist, psychoanalyst, executive assistant, accountant, advocate, cheerleader, Hello Kitty's surgeon, story-teller (before I could even talk), playmate, meal provider (from elementary school when I had to borrow lunch tickets to a working adult with a paycheck), and most of all...best friend to me.

Happy birthday to my dearest Guh. I love you!

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!

A Day with Dr. Cousin

Cousins Day was semi-extended but on a more intimate basis. :) I went to church this AM and then met up at Bro's to have breakfast at Overland Cafe with Dr. Cousin, FBIL, and Bro. I haven't had brunch there in years! Not since I lived at where Bro lives now.

Afterwards, the 3 of us went to the mall to window shop and make some exchanges. We stopped by Bare Escentuals so I could find a blush. Poor sales associate was trying to look for two shades for me and he ended up dropping one all over himself! I felt so bad...especially since I knew I wasn't going to buy anything. Of course he was so sweet about it. Secretly, I was thinking that that's something that would have happened to me FOR SURE if I were in his place...since I'm extremely clumsy. Perhaps I should make that as one of my new year's resolutions -- be less clumsy!

Afterwards, I came home to freshen up and rest a little bit. They picked me up for happy hour at the Daily Grill. Dr. Cousin treated us to many appetizers and drinks (although I stayed dry). We chilled a bit at Chez C&C and then they left to bring Dr. Cousin to the airport. She flies out tonight back to Connecticut. :*(

Tomorrow, we have plans to countdown with Lynnielovepoem, FBIL, and Bro. :) 3-2-1-woohoo!

P.S. I still love being on vacation and am already dreading the day I have to go back!

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!