Pre-Thanksgiving Thoughts

When we were young and spent Thanksgiving dinners at Pastor Aunty's Monterey Road House in San Marino, I remember she had us sit in the living room after dinner and go around and share what we were thankful for. I wish I remember what cheesy things I said.

We don't do that any more, but I think it would be a great tradition to have in the future. (Unfortunately, these memories were recalled by the latest episode of "Dexter," which I hesitatingly watch now that I effortfully avoid gory, gloomy, and maladaptive shows.)

I have been daydreaming about our Thanksgiving dinner for probably a month now. First of all, I am really excited because it is Husband's first family gathering. Our family gatherings usually start off with half of the adults in funky moods but by the time we all gather around to pray and thank the good Lord for everything, everyone's fine by the "Amen." Good food is gathered on plates and we separate to our respective "adult" and "children's" tables (never mind that the youngest of my generation is now 20 or 19? How young are you, Andrew?). I'm really looking forward to Husband experiencing the fun of our family gatherings.

The thought of eating delicious home-cooked entrees has also taken over my mind, especially this past week. Husband asked me if we usually have a traditional meal (i.e., American) or Chinese. I told him it's always a mix of both, and the percentage is unpredictable. Sometimes it's 50/50; other times, it's 70 (Chinese)/30 (American), but we always have a turkey. This year, I'm hoping for more American -- mashed potatoes, corn, mac & cheese, candied yams...mmmm...but since we're not supposed to bring anything, Husband and I are planning on sneaking in Patti LaBelle's Over the Rainbow mac & cheese recipe and Marie Callendar's cornbread (well, baked from their mix). I'd also make mashed potatoes but dude, I'm on a much-needed break so that just sounds like too much work. ;)

MmmMmm...I'm hungry! Two more days!

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. :)

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.

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.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Much love and XOxoOXox to my family, friends, and turtle!

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!).

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!

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!

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 Valentine's Day!

Today was a nice, casual V-day for the BF and I. We had dinner at Paco's Taco's (my fave Mexican restaurant!), stopped by Hotcake Bakes for dessert, and then went bowling. :)

I also received a bag of "Classroom Mix" Valentine's candies from bro and FBIL last night. What a clever idea and a delicious mix of Snickers, M&Ms, and Twix! I also received a Valentine from my MC2 - a See's Candies chocolate heart! Yummers. :) I didn't see my regular kids for tx today so I didn't get to throw a real "Valentime" day party for the small potatoes, but last Friday, we had mini-V-day parties w/ the kids and tmrw, we'll wrap up the celebration. Yay!

XOXO to all of you!

P.S. Hotcakes Bakes: "Katrina Moore and Elfie Weiss have opened little ten-seater Hotcakes Bakes, combining their American and Parisian baking techniques. Everything’s made on premises, from scratch, without benefit of mixers. Signature baked goods include opera cake; banana cream pie with milk chocolate ganache; and croissants. Sandwiches served on fresh baguettes pair ingredients like caprese with prosciutto and turkey with avocado."

Happy New Year!

I am almost caught up to date...Last ketchup!

New Year's Eve

BF and I headed to FBM's and went bowling with FBM and BBN. I got my second bowling lesson from FBM, but I still kept jacking up the hitch-hiker/hand-shake/suit-case release. Still, I had fun. I even got to help BBN bowl. That consisted of walking him up to the line, handing him the ball, and letting him drop it until it got to the pins.

Afterwards, we headed back to FBM's house and hung out with his family. Another couple arrived with their two doggies, and we hung out until Countdown. LBN was awake for his first New Year's countdown. :) BBN stayed up a little later and sat with me outside by the fire pit for quite sometime. He was actually really clingy b/c he was afraid of the small doggies, even though he didn't want to admit it. We chatted a bit. The funny thing is that our conversation reminded me of BF and my typical conversations.

BBN: What you talking about?
Me: What are YOU talking about?
BBN: I'm talking about what you talking about.
Me: What am I talking about?
BBN: You're crazy!
Me: No, you're crazy!
BBN: NO, you're crazy!

That kid cracked me up all day and night. The most adorable thing is that he couldn't remember anyone's name except BF's. BF was soOOooOO happy about that. I ain't hatin'; I'm really happy for BF, too. :) Afterall, what BBN calls BF isn't the shortest/easiest name.

After BBN went to bed and we ran out of fire wood, we hung out a bit more inside. Two more friends stopped by. When day broke and we decided all the drunks were finally back home asleep (or in jail?), BF and I headed back to the Westside to go bowling.

Just kidding!

We went home to sleep and sleep we did. All in all, it was a nice, mellow welcoming of the New Year.

Best wishes for the new year to all of my loved ones!

After Christmas Ketchup

Another Ketchup...

Day after Christmas

My bro dropped me off at LAX around 8:15AM. I was nervous b/c it was my second flight alone. Ever. First one was to visit Doctor Cousin in Michigan and that was an ordeal b/c when I landed, I had no way of contacting her (this was pre-cell phone days) and the airport was 3 hours away from where she lived. It was a nervewracking time for me.

This time, I couldn't check in at the kiosk (which is what I know how to do). I walked around in circles and finally got in line to check in at the counter. All the while, my bro waited in his car outside! Poor bro must have thought about how helpless I can be. I boarded with no problems, had a turbulent flight, but safely arrived in Vegas. Thankfully, I remember what BF and I did last time when we landed so I wasn't as lost. I even wandered into little gift shops before I hopped into a taxi. I got to Mandalay Bay early so I wandered some more...all the way to Shark Reef's gift shop. Eventually, I met them at Raffles Cafe and had a delicious brunch. Thereafter, we gambled until...7 PM! I have never gambled so long before! We kept hitting on Gettin' Lucky, and eventually walked away about $80-100 up. We had dinner at Red Rock's Food Court (delicious pizza) and that was about it.

December 27

Shopping day at Primm Outlets! Christmas gifts from BF included two Benetton suits, brown Ann Taylor slacks, and a BR shirt -- all work-oriented (boo! No fun!) but I could always use more of that since I'm a grown-up and all. ;) I also got my bro's birthday gift. :) We shopped for a few hours and then headed to Red Rock again. I played Bingo w/ FMIL, but didn't win for the first time. I still had tons of fun, though. Bingo's all high-tech and fancy in Vegas!

The first time I ever played Bingo, I was 10 y/o on a Carribean cruise w/ my Dad, Bro, Step-Mom, God-Father, and Ama. My bro and I played Bingo while the adults were elsewhere. To win, you had to get four corners. I had three corners and just needed 73. They called 72, which I also had, right above my 73. I leaned over to my bro and said, "Oh man, Guh, look, I needed 73, but they called 72." Then the caller called out, "73!" I whispered, "Guh, I got Bingo." Bro said, "Are you sure?" "Yes, I'm sure." Twelve year-old Bro yelled out as loud as he could from the back of the large auditorium, "Bingo!!!" The adults around us had to chime in so the announcer could hear. I remember when they came to pay us, they didn't know what to do. Were they allowed to pay us? Well, they paid us $150 in cash. Sweet.

The second time I played Bingo was when we were at Big Bear Lake for my bro's b-day. It was hilarious b/c we were playing at like the Elk's Lodge or something. I think I won like $75. Not too shabby.

December 28

BF and I went bowling with FILs. Since they've retired, they've really gotten into bowling. I had no idea how serious BF was about finding a hobby that we could both partake in and enjoy, but bowling it is! We had so much fun and got some serious tips from FILs and FFIL's League Buddy. That night, I got my buffet fix at Red Rock. I had no idea FSIL was into buffets, too!

December 29

We got our own bowling balls and bowling shoes! FFIL picked out my shoes. "Hey Cheryl. Look, they made a shoe after you. Dexter Cheryls." I couldn't pass 'em up. I mean, they made a shoe after me! BF and I picked out bowling balls. Mine is black and red and smells like black cherry. I almost got a Hello Kitty ball, but the store didn't have any. FSIL drove us back to L.A. and dropped us off at FBM, where we went bowling and got our first free lesson. Later, he dropped us off at home.

Everyone should have a turtle and everyone should go bowling. :)

Christmas Ketchup

This last week of the year whizzed by so fast! Unfortunately, I neglected to blog so here goes my infamous Ketchup Summary.

Christmas Eve Eve

Ama was sick this year (supposedly my fault) so Bro and I picked her up from Dentist Aunty's and we went straight home, meaning we missed a mini family gathering at Lake Arrowhead. :( Bro and I decorated some more, worked out, bought more decorations, and decorated some more. :) It was our first time decorating outside and man, it was hard!

Christmas Eve

Bro and I stopped by our neighbors before our family arrived. It was my first time stepping inside their house and I was blown away, not just by their regular decor, but also their Christmas decorations. I have NEVER seen a department store Christmas tree inside a home. Their tree touched their roof and was garnished with ornaments the size of "PeeWee Handballs" (well, that's what we called them in elementary school). They even had the huge, fat ribbons. We went back to Ama's and admired our dinky tree that I decorated this year (Bro decorated the rest of the house). By then, everyone had arrived: Genius Family, Medical Family, Army Family, and my family. This year, Pastor Aunty and Attorney Cousin flew over to Doctor Cousin's. We had a fabulously huge Chinese-American meal...from "Chinese burritos" to chili. Afterwards, gifts were opened and the family eventually took off.

This year, Bro and I gave our cousins, aunts, and uncles pairs of movie tickets. The Army Family received a Black Angus GC. Bro and I gave Ama a purse and Pastor Aunty's Family flowers. I gave Dad a microwave (he really needs one) and Guh a Coffee Bean GC and his watch *in thought*. FBIL got a Dutch oven. BF and I gave his dad golf balls, his mom parfum, and an Xbox 360 game to his sis. I received many wonderful gifts: my favorite parfum and some clothes from Dad, a nice purse from Guh, an ice-cream maker(!) from FBIL, much needed clothes from BF, a fun knitted scarf from Bro's neighbor, iTunes and Sbux GC from Army Cousin Family, a new cell phone from BF's family, and a C-note from Ama. I think I'm forgetting a few gifts given and received. Hm.

Christmas Day

We left Ama's and dropped her off at Dentist Aunty's and then went to FBIL's Christmas Dinner. That was a lot of fun and just as delicious. I didn't get to see FBIL's nieces, but I did get to hear the story of how the younger one discovered how Santa and the Easter Bunny weren't real. We got home kind of late and I quickly caught up with my Lil Sis (who is an occasional secret blog reader) before packing for Vegas.

I miss my Lil Sis. I sometimes get to catch up with her on the holidays, but not this time. At least we spoke, though. :) She was laughing about my Mortified entries; she probably knows who each person is, except that I encrypted it with initials and code names. Ha!

Last minute relaxation and shopping

After I dropped BF off at his sister's, I came back home, found out I'm placed in IngleWOooOod!, blasted Sarah McLachlan's Wintersong with BF's new home theatre system (mu-hahaha! I got it for him for Christmas), cleaned Lil F's tank, and then headed off to my spa pedicure.

My spa pedicure at Peponi was absolutely fabulous! The place is so chic, cozy, and lovely. I arrived early to my appointment so Kaamilyah started me 10 mins before 2. My appointment went way over (which I totally appreciated). I asked for a 40 min Rejuvinator tx, but I walked out 2 hours later! I had such a wonderful time w/ the girl, and she did a great job. Not only that, but she is also a Dexter and America's Next Top Model fan!

Afterwards, I went last-minute shopping with my bro at the Westside Pavillion and the Century City Mall. I rather enjoy shopping with my bro b/c we get really silly and have a grand ol' time. I love the Century City Mall, except I always get lost either going there or leaving. Now, I even get lost in the Mall b/c the maps just aren't correctly oriented (IMO). My bro and I walked in so many circles. The best site was walking into the Swarovski store. I was actually looking for a turtle brooch (that shouldn't be a surprise!) and I saw something far more marvelous.
First I saw in the case some sea shells. I thought they were adorable. They were scattered along the bottom of the first display case you encounter when you walk into the store.


My eyes moved along the display and I could not believe my eyes! There to the left of the sea shells was a huge sea turtle crystal figurine. On the other side of the case were 2 hatchling sea turtles! Beautiful.

Ever since I started reading my sea turtle book, I've been spewing off random sea turtle facts to BF and Bro. I even brought my book to Peponi so Kaamilyah asked me what I was reading about. Of course I had to start off talking about Lil F. I am on a quest to convert people into turtle lovers. :)