我在美国酗咖啡

2010-07-30T21:54:00.004-05:00

Flowers on my balcony.. bloom as if there is no tomorrow.

绽放着的花朵灿烂的笑，很快的又枯萎凋谢。
我什么时候能像它们，那样的肆无顾忌？

回来了

2010-07-16T00:04:00.003-05:00

回来了！

上上个周末趁假期出游去，原想好好的充电休息。。不知为什么回来却更提不起劲做事。

满脑子只想着不做事睡觉的日子真好，赚满一亿环游世界更好。。想着想着就整个人懒洋洋的 —__—'"

哟，休息不是为了走更长远的路吗？

最近偷闲爱去这和这。

July 4th Road Trip

2010-07-01T22:07:00.002-05:00

We are ready for the trip!

Baby and I plan to visit Itasca State Park during this Independence Day holiday, the park has the longest history in MN, as well as the famous headwaters of Mississippi River.

We got ourselves a cabin style room for the 3 days 2 nights trip. This is gonna be a relax and idle weekend as we decided not to plan ahead, sometimes too much planning might bring up even more pressure!

Ahhhhh.... relaxing weekend... here we come.

电脑病毒

2010-06-18T00:42:00.003-05:00

上星期我的电脑中了病毒。。。

花了好多时间将病毒找出来却无法将它消灭，好顽强！

苦无办法之下只好reformat电脑。

这也意味着。。。好几个月没有back-up的相片和文件烟飞灰灭！！！

2010-05-27T00:17:00.002-05:00

抬头向前看，挺胸向前走。
不怕挫折不怕失败。
我要证明给你们看。

2010-04-30T23:56:00.003-05:00

今天上班途中目睹了一场车祸。
撞烂的车子旁围了好几个拯救人员。
短短的十五秒，看到消防员将唏巴烂的挡风镜一片一片剥下，也看到车后座的乘客动弹不得的等着援救。
转过头继续行驶。。脑海里马上为出事者祈祷。
然后，马上拿起电话打个阿宝。。

上个星期我的外婆去世了。
记忆中我的外公外婆是很凶的。。好像动不动就会挨一顿骂。现在想想，其实他们只是嗓门大了点。可那时我们不明白，只会躲在妈妈的脚边发抖。
渐渐的我们就少来往了，算算已有超过十年没到过外婆家了。上次见面好像也是十年前了。
所以，当爸爸告诉我外婆去世时。。。老实说我没有什么悲伤的感觉。只是觉得感叹。

几个月前，有个旧同学因病离开了。
收到消息时我愣了好久，很怀疑自己听到的。然后泪水就决堤了。
我们曾经那么要好，吃的喝的睡的玩的哭的笑的。
毕业后各奔东西，渐渐的疏远。但我们还是会偶尔联络。
最遗憾的是上次回马错过了见面。。。没想到就永远错过了。
最遗憾。。
那个星期我每个晚上都在哭。
我知道以后想起她，心里除了遗憾，还有愧疚。

生命真的很脆弱。
是什么力量带走我们的灵魂？
不管好或坏。。每个生命都是可贵的。
不管是你是我，每个人都是独一无二的。

2010-04-05T00:02:00.002-05:00

那天上网查整牙资料时无意间看到了这篇漫画，还真是符合我的心声。。。呼呼呼。。。和大家分享分享吧。

凤凰城一游

2010-04-03T01:22:00.000-05:00

上星期三去了亚利桑那(Arizona)一趟。此番是去公干，但也不忘借机行乐（虽然一个人很无聊 -_-'')。

飞了三个小时半，飞机降落在一个与明州南缘北侧的地方。相较于明州的寒冷，亚利洲明显的是那么的热。这里是处于沙漠地带，到处都能见到泛滥生长的热带植物。

取了租来的车子后就战战兢兢的上路了（很遗憾忘了拍陪了我两天的小红。。）。

一个人在陌生的地方开车是很迷茫的。。尤其是像凤凰城那么大的城市。以前出门旅游都是阿宝开车（我也有开但比较少），而且一个人开是比较不知所措的。。唉，我太依赖他了！

上空俯视部分的市区。。不是我拍的，嘿嘿。

好不容易找到了间麦当劳，才发现他们还在卖着早餐！哇哦！忘了亚利州比明州慢两个小时。。我的生理系统告诉我是时候吃午餐了。。。没辙只好随便叫份套餐吃。。呃。。

吃饱后就出发往植物园去了，好在我事先做足了功课，路程非常的顺利（也要多谢阿宝借出他的GPS咯）。

此间植物园叫Desert Botanical Garden，离机场只有十五分钟的路程。植物园里有超过21,000棵不同品种的植物，其中有好一部分是濒临绝种的。园里还有很多野生动物和鸟类，最开心的莫过于看到了很多年没见到的蜂鸟！而且还是两只哦！

园里密密麻麻都是仙人掌。

是蜂鸟啊！看到了吗！？怎么我那么幸运啊！？

很多时候植物旁都有一个小牌子，说明品种和出处地。

第二只蜂鸟啊！看到了吗！？

得意的小家伙，应该是土拨鼠的一种。很可爱咧，见到我拍照也不跑。

结束了几个小时一个人漫无目的的植物园之行后，就开车往当地的高级瞎拼商场逛。逛啊逛，竟然迷路了！我的天啊！所以我最讨厌大型商场了！（迷路后就这么说，开心逛街时又说很喜欢 :P）求救于保安后终于顺利脱困 *汗*。。此时也差不多接近四点可以check in酒店了。就开心的上路了。

殊不知。。。。。。

碰上大塞车！！！吼！

可恶的凤凰城你的车怎么那么多！！？？六条单方行驶车道都会塞，你们这些车打哪儿来咧！？

塞呀塞呀，折腾一个小时后终于到了酒店。。。顺利登记后就进房咯！

好豪华啊，忍不住要拍，呵呵。

此行的目的

。
。
。
。

当晚到机场接另两个同事后再去饱餐一顿，同时也发现当地有个小型的唐人街。。。再顺道发现有个地方能吃刨冰。。。所以在启程回明州前。。。

大吃一顿！！！
（虽然不怎么好吃 :P ）

请叫我牙套妹

2010-03-19T00:14:00.003-05:00

上了牙套的一个星期后。。啊宝说我瘦了。

没办法，现在只能吃软的食物，比如薯泥啦，蛋糕，雪糕，布丁。。不瘦才怪！这两天情况比较好些，至少能够吃些煮到烂的快熟面 -_-

那天去上牙套时真是忐忑不安，还一直不停的问柜台和护士小姐我是不是真的要上牙套了。虽然整牙是我多年一直想实现的梦，但当它真正来临时。。。心里还是会怕。好吧，说我没用也行，我就是怕！

这两天感到牙齿有些松松的，看来是它们开始移动了吧。

上了牙套后很多事情都变得不方便，尤其是吃（废话！）。话说那天我尝试吃一碗煮到块烂的面，吃着吃这就从钢线里拉出了几条面。再来就是吃饱后一定要刷牙，如果为了整牙而搞到一口好牙变坏就真得是得不偿失了！本人可是很自豪的大声说我没有补过牙哦！

其实我的牙齿本来就没有什么，很多人对于我要整牙而感到奇怪。。我的牙是挺整齐的（除了下排有两颗稍稍的歪），但最困扰我的是它们往外翻，就是俗说的龅。

来张看得清牙齿的照吧，很明显我的上排是非常整齐的 :P

本来想附上一张比较侧面的照（才看得到我的龅牙），很遗憾的是找来找去找不到。。作罢。

对于爱狂笑的我，龅牙是件蛮困扰的事。有次从朋友拍的录像里看到自己后吓了一跳，没想到自己一张嘴说话就前排的牙齿都溢出来了（我想有些人会认为是我嘴巴的尺寸问题，但我个人认为龅牙占了很大的因素）。所以啰，希望牙齿整后一切能够获得改善。

前几天康熙来了个整牙的主题，真是说到我的心坎里。。。我也是不能微笑的那一型！不知道有没有人发现我拍照都是咧嘴笑咧？而且啊，我的下巴也是皱皱的（这是我的整牙医师告诉我的，真是一言惊醒梦中人）。医师说会皱是因为龅的关系（这也是选择他的其中一个原因啦，问了好几间只有他这么说）。

肚子饿而又吃不到是很痛苦的一件事。上了牙套后的第三天就忍不住大发脾气，呜呜。。现在每天刷牙也要刷个至少十五分钟，唉，爱美真得是要付出代价的。

好期待下次的复诊。。

2010-03-10T23:03:00.002-06:00

三月十号，值得纪念的一天。。。我上牙套了！

2010-02-18T00:36:00.003-06:00

恭喜发财！

今天是。。。年初四，宝和我像往常般过。年除夕在朋友家吃火锅，年初一再到我姐家吃饭，除此之外真得没什么特别的了。哎，想家。

这个周末有公司的新年宴。是啦，我的老板也是马来西亚人，所以我们也有很东方的新年宴，不错吧？阿宝因为要上课所以没得去，呵呵。真期待呀。

天气越来越温暖了。一直说要去滑雪却也没有去，算算上次去已是三年前的事了。。再不去身子就不耐摔咯！看来今年又是没机会了 :(

再来。。要做什么好呢？星期六也许就替我的老公换黑油吧。再来和阿宝重看Avatar。哦哦！虎年就这样过！

2010-02-11T00:20:00.005-06:00

终于决定了，下下个星期三就会回到第二间整牙中心去做模型，然后再和牙医讨论接下来的计划。唉，好期待。前天早上打回去预约时间，当我听到下下个星期做模型，再下个星期就上牙套时，心里还是顿了一顿。。真的要做吗?

不管了, 绑就绑! 真的是不想老来才后悔. 两年就两年, 眨眨眼就过 (当初来美国时也没想到一眨眼就过了五年...) 阿宝说, 要绑就赶快绑, 这样两年后一脱牙套就能马上结婚了.. 呵呵, 急死他也.

话说回来, 农历新年来了, 这里一点气氛都没有 T_T 人们一如往常的工作, 我们大年初一还得上班.. 在美国谁管什么是农历新年. 虽然没有假, 阿宝和我还是会趁周末的时候上朋友家玩.. 再来去我大姐家. 新年吗, 总是要热闹一点的.

记得去年疯狂做了一堆肉干 (阿宝说吃到后面有点怕了, 呵呵), 今年来点什么咧? 就做去年想做但没时间做的黄梨饼吧... 五香也不错, 唉我口水都要流了...

恭喜发财咯!

Braces

2010-01-22T00:18:00.004-06:00

Visited 2 orthodontic centers over the past weeks. Had an X-ray at the first center and realized both my bottom wisdom tooth were 90 degree bent. How scary is it? Mad scary!!! I was advised to take off all my wisdom tooth (yup, all four) and another four teeth. Guess I'll be able to cut some weight then. :S

Second visit was a center near to my company. No X-ray shot this time but some basic examination. Was told the some - have my wisdom teeth and another four removed. However, the estimate cost was lower than the previous one.

Having another appointment next Thursday. Can't wait, can't wait.... I'll decide to go for which at that time. Am having another 2 appointments but I don't think I can wait till that long.. (they have my appointment schedule on mid of Feb!!)

Speaking to braces, lots of my friends react: "Why are you going for braces at this age?!?!", but, many of them do not know that, a large percentage of today's patients are adult. I've seen many people braced at age of 30s and I was told an aunt of my friend braced at 40s! In fact, I do not consider age as a barrier. If I can't tolerate 2 years (or maybe 3) of awkwardness, how can I tolerate being so unsatisfied with my teeth for the rest of my life?

I've been wanting to get my teeth braced... since.. erm.. 5 or 6 years ago. But I was a fresh graduate from college and my financial situation did not allow me to go for one. Hence postpone till now.

The reason I want to do the braces? Like I mentioned before.. my teeth are pretty forward. It makes me, someone who like to laugh, to lose confidence when I see the photos of me laughing with almost all my front teeth shown.. that's really frustrated. Meanwhile, I want to prevent future overbite issue, like many other elders (if you knew someone who's jaw moved forward when getting old.. that's the issue... and it could happen to anyone).

I did quite some research and observed friend, friend's friend who did braces.... and I saw many people who had same problem with me are now enjoying their new appearance... so envy.. I think no one can stop me now, I wanna brace my teeth!

Can't wait.. can't wait..... ......

W230

2010-01-19T01:21:00.002-06:00

My new camera did its job.
Took some real nice pictures for me.

09 to 10

2010-01-03T23:44:00.002-06:00

Highlights of 2009:

Accepted a job offer - After many months of searching, applying, emailing, interviewing... a full time job is finally offered at city area. I could not be happier cos job market was horrible at that time (so does now but getting a little better). I was planning to return to school.
Moved into cities - Our previous apartment was about 50 minutes away from my workplace, even longer when stuck in stupid traffic jam. We then decided to move into cities area where it reduces my commute time to 25 min. This new place is superb cos it's close to major attraction areas such as shopping malls, Asian grocery markets, various restaurants, airport, zoo... etc. We really like this new place!
Entered 3rd year of relationship - Yup, at end of April. Seems like it was yesterday that we first knew each other... and now we've been through so much together. All the sadness, happiness, excitement, madness, boredom.... I do not know if we would be holding hands till end of our journey but the companion of each others all this while is so precious that I believe it won't be so easily forgotten.
Work permit received - It was indeed my luck. While most of the organizations are cutting their overhead cost or even worse to shut down their businesses. I got hired and my company was willing to apply work permit for me. It used to be extraordinarily difficult to get approved (just like jackpot) cos the number of applicants always exceeded the number of work permit offered. Yet this year the demand slipped and thus we got ours without any barriers.
Traveled to South Dakota - We had traveled to several famous spots each year and finally we went and said hello to four honorable presidents!
Went home for a good whole month - Intended to return home at CNY but something interrupted so I chose October. After almost three years of absent from home, I realized that things have changed and so do I. Somehow I was not really comfortable with it. I knew I would get used to it if I stayed longer, meanwhile, I understood that I would definitely miss my current living place. Nonetheless, I really appreciate the time that spent with family and friends.

My 2010 resolution / goals:

Have my teeth braced - Ohhh ya! Please allow me to fulfill my wish for heaven's sake! I've been wanting to do this even before I came to US! Darn I want my teeth to be.. erm.. to be... well... less protrusive!! p.s. if you realize.. ya this is the issue that I mentioned in previous entries, that something that is gonna impact my life for the next 2 years. Not gonna discuss too much here as it is not the main topic of this entry.
New York :D - How can one claim herself to be living in US and have never been to the great NYC?? Ain't it sound ridiculous to you? Baby and I have been talking about the Statue of Liberty, Niagara Falls, Manhattan, Time Square and 5th Ave... and yes we've decided to visit at end of summer.
Save money - Doesn't sound too persuasive after I listed 2 goals above. But hell ya I'm gonna think of a way to be financially wise and be a smart consumer (though memorizing prices is not my strength).
Get fit - My weight does not change at all after 5 years of reside at US. Well, 2 pounds difference at most. However I know that my body muscle is getting loosen and my tummy has accumulated 2 layers of.. erm... extra tissue (Ok I shall call it 'fat'). I went to swim twice since we moved into this apartment and zero visit to gym (told baby that I want an apartment with gym and swimming pool). My excuse of too tiring after work is not gonna happen this year.. clearly, I still have the weekends.
Be organized - I am not a terrible planner but not as efficient as others (like my elder sis), I want an improvement. I need to be more organized on time, daily activities, handling issues, as well as tiny stuff like putting my camera cable, nail clipper.. (sometimes cannot fine 'em!)
Help others - Told myself to be helpful contributive whenever my ability allowed. I donated couple of times during 2009 but failed to do the Samaritan's Purse donation before Thanksgiving (it was already over when I came back from M'sia! An example of less organized, argh). Meanwhile, be appreciated and not to forget how blessed we are when there are job, income, food, entertainment, family and friends.
Learn something new - something new something newwwww!!!!!
Read more books - Yay!!!
Let the ones I love know how much I love them.

All About Christmas!

2009-12-27T01:12:00.020-06:00

This year I wasn't able to visit my sister due to the snow storm which hit MN the night before X'mas eve. Baby and I stayed at home most of the time and visited friend's place which was relatively closer to our place.

Ahhh... fifth white Christmas.. and we are still enjoying it!

Last year this time I was accompanying my parents and we had a little adventure. It was indeed unforgettable :S

Last weekend, we attended a Christmas party organized by my company. It was very successful and fun, we really enjoyed it!

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Things that cannot be missed during Christmas - Christmas tree and gifts.
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Nice shot!
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Jess and I <3
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And we started the meal!
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Baby with his typical pissed expression. Bah!
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Appetizer - some kind of salad and bread.
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Main dishes
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Ehh.. baby's super raw steak, I would eat if it was medium done..

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Dessert! Tiramisu, chocolate strawberry and fruit tarts!
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Sharon and I.
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Dessert and steak bar.
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During the party.
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Games were prepared and almost everyone got their gifts.
This game required us to open the gift with gloves! By the way we had to roll the dices and get a double to open it. Who open the last gift wrap and the gift would go to he/she!
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Getting excited!
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And he was the winner!!
LOL
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Now, the gifts that we brought over were put in the spotlight.
One person chooses a gift and unwrap it then the next one. If you liked someone's unwrapped gift then you can "steal" it. So.. I "stole" a Pyrex brand glass container. What a wonderful gift!
Btw, guess which was the gift I prepared?

Needless to say... the cutest one of course!!
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Yay! Nice quality of containers!

Then it was the time for grand drawing. Only full time employees were eligible for the drawing and the prizes were: #1 HP Laptop, #2 Sony Camera, #3 GPS.
My very thoughtful bosses came out an idea of draw out five names among the crowd and have them pick the numbers.. as shown..
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Hence, each person has 1/4 of chance to get the prize!
Before the party, I told my co-worker that I want the laptop, then I changed my mind of wanting a camera or GPS... on that night, I was hoping to hear my name (guess almost everyone was same).. to hear my name.... to hear...... to hear...... ...

and I HEARD my name!!

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Five of us were picked - Theresa, Jess, Sharon, William and me!
After a few rounds of picking...

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The winners!!!
Theresa got the GPS that she has been longing for, Jess got the laptop and I have the camera!
WooohoooooO!!!
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It started to snow on the eve, baby and I went to Green Mill for some nice and juicy chicken wings :)

Get rid of the snow accumulated on my lao gong.
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Merry Christmas!!!
Ain't our Christmas tree cute?
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Laksa that I made on Christmas eve... hahaha. It was super delicious though.
Yum yum...
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We went to Jess's on the next day.
We had a really nice seafood steamboat and some ice kacang.. ya, it caused my stomach pain afterward :(
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Playing some sort of secret santa game... then reveal who your santa is... haha

Last and foremost.. my super four "fei" + zhi mo + ping hu!!!!
FYI the blank tiles represent "fei" (飞)

What a joyful Christmas!!!
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This Year My BD

2009-12-23T05:07:00.008-06:00

It's been a while!

Life has gotten so busy since I came back from Malaysia. All my leisure back home were all gone and replaced :( I am exhausting.. woowahhh!

So baby came back a week after I arrived. He brought me tons of food that we cannot find or are simply pricey here in MN. We now have nearly 20 packs of laksa and prawn noodle paste, 3 packs of durian dodol, a bottle of prawn paste (for rojak!), couple pack of A1 curry paste, a can of abalone and ermmm... lots of junk food! Oh ya, he actually got me a pack of Bak-Gua! He told me that HE BOUGHT IT FOR ME cos I didn't have chance to eat any of it in M'sia. I had 1 piece and the next time I reopened the package.... there was only 1 piece left. ............................ Totally speechless -_-

When I was unpacking his luggage, he came to me and said: "I got something for you. I am so excited that I can't wait till next week so I want to show you now.", me: "Ok.. don't tell me you are spending again.". He didn't answer but digged he backpack. Then, he had my bd present on both hands and said: "Here, check it out." I refused but had him to open it. Guess what? It was the most beautiful and priceless present I have ever received. Not to mention its value but the intention of buying me something and bringing it back across thousand miles to the States (and taking risk of having it lost or custom checked...) IS WAY TOO TOUCHING. I have never felt so pampered and loved.

It started to flurries the morning of my bd. It turned all white in hours. I took a half day off to spend rest of the day with baby. We headed to IKEA for some shopping and nice meat ball meals then had our dinner in a Japanese restaurant. I was thinking to go visit FOGO yet the urge of having Japanese food overcame the steak.

BD gail is ready.

Baby helps setting up our first X'mas tree.

Tadah! Half way done!

My lovely DQ ice cream cake :)

Nothing much really happened recently, except I am getting busy with work and some personal issues (no getting engaged or married you folks!). I have also made a decision which will impact my life for the next couple years, will reveal it in next week.. hehe.

Merry X'mas!

2009 的 Thanksgiving..

2009-11-27T02:38:00.004-06:00

今年的感恩节是很平静的。

下午在姐姐的家吃了顿火鸡餐后就回来面对四面墙。。到现在。
也好，一个人静静的。

反正从一开始到现在都是这样。

不知道有多少人知道感恩节是美国才有的节日，主要是登陆美国的欧洲白人与印第安人庆祝经历了干旱和粮荒后的丰收的节日。这就是为什么每年的感恩节都得大吃大喝了。

今天我感恩，应为我知道我拥有很多。
失去了一点不代表什么，我要学会不在乎。
与其把时间花在不停的在意，倒不如想想其它值得我感恩的人。

@菡

梦醒时分

2009-11-26T01:22:00.003-06:00

几天前，我做了场梦。

梦里，我飞到地球的另一端。那里有我熟悉的一切，家人和朋友。
虽然大家少了以前的天真，也没了以前的咬合感，可记忆里的羁绊还是牵着我们。
大家笑得好开心，好像没有一刻是寂寞的。

醒来了，我滑过蓝蓝的天，站在绿绿的地，看着，想着。。
这一切又是什么呢？
我。。在哪里呢？

思考几天了。
我的前路。。遥遥不见。
我回头来，还有他，和最熟悉的温柔神情，说：“不要怕。”

渐渐习惯。
又不是第一，二次了。
我知道，另一端还有真正关心我的他们。

我是坚强的。

Nov 22nd, 12.11pm

2009-11-22T12:11:00.003-06:00

Arrived MN at 10.10am local time.

The past 3.5 weeks seems like a dream, why does good time happens in a blink of an eye?!?!

2009-11-15T09:48:00.003-06:00

Reach the end of third week in Malaysia. I will be taking the flight on coming Sunday morning, and here I back my lovely apartment =)

Have been accompanying my parents over the weeks, though I feel that I've brought them lots of problems (and so as my friends you know who you are), I believe they do enjoy my companion (please tell me you do... ...). Anyways, the trip has been great thus far, nothing is perfect of course, but I do appreciate the time and energy they contribute to make the trip a memorable one.

I was able to meet with friends at Malacca, KL, Johor and Singapore. I do have regrets due to some unexpected factors (such as friends called to tell that he/she couldn't attend the gathering; a whole day of raining when we were supposed to visit Sentosa; have to leave KTV an hour early to fetch baby... etc) Overall, everything is wonderful.

Need to start pack my stuff the next few days... sigh, how time flies...

Two More Days

2009-10-22T21:34:00.003-05:00

Ya I will be leaving very soon.

Days have been passing like thunder, it was like yesterday that I was still hesitating to go back and now I am quarter done with my packing. How time flies.

We have been shopping both online and physically over the weeks. I am pretty sure that 60% of the stuff in my luggage are gifts rather than personal belongings. Now I gotta thank to the convenient e-commerce, I can get my most of the items without stepping out of the door (can't believe I am feeling amazed as I serve in this industry).

So, I got my documents, clothes, dresses, make up kits, shoes, gifts and books ready.. what else should I bring? Hmm

Part of the stuff that baby and I are bringing back.

Ya.. those peanuts, my dad's favorite. And the super size lotions are baby mummy's order.

Travel size contact lens solution and toothpaste are a must..

By the way we got some super good deal from GAP! Most of the clothing we bought are under $4 each piece! It's like soooooooooo wrong to not to buy them!

Found some ringgit and sing dollar from my long sealed box. Kinda weird to see the colored currency.

Nokia 5800 that baby's sister ordered. He has been playing with it for a whole day :S

Bought myself a make up kit at Sephora! Was recommended of this easy starter kit as I am not really a make up person. The kit contains primer, concealer, foundation, 2 brushes and 1 sponge. A very good deal as the retail value of each adds up to $78 and I got it at only $35. Hehehe.

It's been almost three years since my last visit to Malaysia. I am feeling excited but worried. My excitement = gathering with family and friends, good food (I want OTAK!), entertainment, relax and all about fun! Scared = long hour flight with no companion, turbulence (argh), jet lag, hot weather and lastly.. the insecure environment. Sigh.

Nonetheless, I hope this trip will be a memorable one! And I know it absolutely will!

So, my current schedule is:

26th - Arriving

7th - Malacca!

9th - Ah Meh

12th - 14th - Sentosa (now where is my bikini?)

20th - baby visit my place

22nd - Departure =((((

Just checked the weather in JB and it is boiling hot at 95 Fahrenheit! Omigod! It's only 34 F here in St. Paul!

Two weeks ago we had an early snow fall over the past.... er.. 60 years? Very pretty isn't it?

Alright, gotta run now to pack the rest of my stuff. Wish myself a pleasant trip!

回家

2009-10-02T21:31:00.002-05:00

已经决定了，这次真的要回家了。

快三年了，说长不长，短不短。实话说我也很习惯了这边的生活，上阵子还执意不回去的，现在机票买了却有股想一去不返的冲动。

马来西亚啊马来西亚，你怎么让我这么矛盾呢？

No... I cannot sleepzzzzz

2009-09-25T01:37:00.006-05:00

Cannot sleep!

Ok this is another cannot-sleep-post, I really have no idea why I can't fall asleep since I woke up at 7.30am (and have been working from 9am till 6pm++).

Anyways... wanna show off how organized and busy my restaurant is!

It is named "Chin Cai Lah" cos I couldn't come out a better name. This games is really addictive cos not only you can do the customization, you can also exchange, buy ingredients; do the food quiz and "hire" your friends! Ahhh I am totally addicted to it....

2009-09-23T21:05:00.002-05:00

I do not know who else is doing mailing now (ya... by mailing I mean physical letter/card) when one knows how to e-mailing. But I do. Postcard is one of my favorite forms of surprising my parents and close friends, as well as wedding or birthday card.

Baby with the caramel apples bought from Cub! It is extremely sweet though.

Internal look.
I hate green apple. The sourness always make me feel like losing my teeth.
Why can't they do caramel apple with the red ones?

Some lunch boxes for our regular working day.
I am the cook, and that is for sure :)

How can we not to make ourselves a strawberry milkshake during summer!?!?

Just received my package this afternoon.
Nice deal from Urban Outfitter, I got the sandal for baby at only $4.99!

What to do?

2009-09-21T00:21:00.002-05:00

To go back or not?

Yeah, go back home, my country of citizenship - Malaysia.

Baby has decided to go home for 2.5 weeks in mid of November and I haven't make up my mind yet. I actually prefer CNY because I have not celebrate it for over 4 years T_T, I really wish that I can go home to enjoy my favorite holiday with family. But now it seems like I have to give up this precious season... well, long story.. not to mention here..

I wish that baby and I can go home together but our schedules do not match! Too bad. He wants to spend Thanksgiving weekend in Malaysia yet I have to return to US before it (as Thanksgiving is one of the busiest period of my company). If I chose to go home in early Nov, baby and I will only have 10 days to meet. (Alright I know our main purpose is not going home and stick with each other but I really cannot bear to leave him for that long...).

Some other factors which make me reluctant to pick November are:

I have no enough saving;
Was thinking to go visit some east coast islands but the islands are closed in Nov;
My hair is not long enough to do perms;
I prefer CNY!!!!

SIGH...

I can't make up my mind... this is tough!

2009-09-03T23:54:00.001-05:00

As mentioned before.... closer picture of this white little thing!

So adorable, isn't it?

Random Dialogue

2009-09-02T00:34:00.003-05:00

It was a regular afternoon in the office. I was chit-chatting with two of my American colleagues.

Paul: "How to say thank you in Mandarin?"

Me: "谢谢！"

Paul: "Oh, xi xi?"

Me: "Nope, it should be xxxxxxxxxxiiiiiiiieeeeeeee xxxxxiiiiiiiiiiiiiieeeeeeeeeee......"

Paul: "Xi Xi?"

Theresa: "How about Yes and No?"

Me: "Erm, it depends on the form of question. If you were asking someone, like 'Is this yous?', then the answer would be 是 for Yes, and 不是 for No."

Theresa: "Wait a minute, how do you pronounce No?"

Me: "Bu Shi, buuuuuuuuuuuu shiiiiiiiii........."

Theresa (with a very strange look) : "Bull...shit?"

******************************************

Me: "Baby can you please open the sliding window?"

Baby: "Ok."

*open the sliding door*

Baby: "Bao, got 苍螂 (Cang1 Lang2)！"

Me scream: "What!?!?! 蟑螂 (Zhang1 Lang2)? Where is it?"

Baby: "Not sure, it just flew away..."

Me scream again: "It was flying?? Omg I'm gonna faint! Kill it! Kill it!"

Baby: "I don't see it now... "

Me: "It should be somewhere in this apartment! Where is it?"

Baby: "It was a tiny 苍螂.. "

Me: "Hold on, did you say 蟑 or 苍?"

Baby: ".... .... 苍....　螂...."

Me: "Huh???"

Baby: "A fly!"

NOTE: 苍蝇 = Cang1 Ying2 = Fly;　蟑螂 = Zhang1 Lang2 = Cockroach;　苍螂 = Cang1 Lang2 = No meaning...

2009-08-26T23:04:00.002-05:00

Bah!

Life has been very boring!

Wake up, work, eat, work, go home, eat, online, sleep - daily routine.

I am turning into a piece of junk! Rotten wood as they said!

bah bah bah bah bah!!!!!

Why Would I Disappear

2009-08-16T11:16:00.008-05:00

The reasons of my disappearance:

We've moved, and we didn't have internet connection for about a week.
Like I said, we've moved. There were so many things that we need to clean up in our new apartment.
Restaurant City on FB - the business of my RC is getting busier, I have to spend time on managing my restaurant (ok, this is lame).
This.
Some parties and gatherings over the past weekends.
I am lazy.
Being lazy.
And lazy...
lazy........

We encountered so many hinders from the fxxking on-site manager in previous apartment. Still, the barriers were doomed to defeated. We were moved.

It was like an amazing race. I swear that I will never ever want to move without any helper and in such a short time frame! It was driving us crazy.

Now we are enjoying our new apartment in city area. The building that we moved in is built on 1960s. Very nice second floor, quiet area with comfortable green carpet. We even received a very nice promotion rate because of the housing market pressure (less people want to rent apartment now, they rather pay a little more to live in their own house!) Aren't we lucky?
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The extremely messy living room on the very first day that we moved in.

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We joined a party in St Cloud the next day.
It was supposed to be a gathering but turned out to be their birthday and farewell party.
Happy Birthday to Beatrice and Yusan...
and Bon Voyage to Calvin!

Oops.. a little too late I guess.
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Mahjong is a MUST!
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A lot of my friends think that I really really really really love to play mahjong. I guess it was because of my extremely thirst facial expression whenever mahjong is mentioned.

But I want to deny.

Yes I like to play mahjong and no doubt it brings us the satisfaction of gambling. But I like it because I enjoy the excitement and joyful atmosphere with friends, as well as family. Some more I think it is more interested than poker.

I like it but don't say like I am a lan du gui, ok!!?!?

Next day morning, guess what I saw?

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White squirrel!!!

I quickly grabbed the camera and took these photos.
It was about 10 cars distance from my apartment but I was very sure that was a white squirrel.

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It disappeared very fast.

We saw it again few days later. It was indeed a pure white squirrel with red eyes. It looks like a rabbit! So cute and I swear that I want to take a close photo of its!
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Company picnic on a wonderful noon. Too wonderful till we sweat like crazy.
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And it was Johann's first birthday!

<3
Don't we look alike in this pic?

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The Tan's got their large pool set up at their backyard.

Lastly... hope you enjoy the pic below...

Hahaha!!!

2009-07-27T22:28:00.010-05:00

We will be moving out very soon.

This is going to be the fifth time. I hope this will be the last time in next three years.

Although we have thought of nicer and classier apartment, we decided to go for a less expensive one. This time we picked a two bedroom because I thought one BR is too narrow for us!

The new apartment is located in the middle of both our workplace. 30 minutes to his and mine. Fair and square (though it seems like he has higher chance of facing traffic jam).

By the way, I am thinking to get myself a pet. I want something that is small and easy to take care of. What do ya think? Hamster? I thought of Hedgehog but looks like it is pretty time consuming to take care of.

I want my dream pug but I don't think I can afford it at this time :( I even thought of chameleon 变色龙 you know. I have been thinking of getting one since young. Too bad baby doesn't like it.

********************************

Yasmin Ahmad laid for rest at the age of 51.

Shocked and speechless when I learned the news. She was so talented, no one would forget her CNY Petronas commercial clips and her impressive movie series.

I don't recall how I learned about Sepet. The feedback of the movie was hugely different, it received both criticize and positive feedback at the same time. Hence my curiosity encouraged me to watch the movie. Here's the review.

RIP Yasmin Ahmad, you will be missed...

Milestone

2009-07-18T20:44:00.005-05:00

It was not a regular Friday for me. While I was in the warehouse yesterday, a friend came to me and said that my H1B application was rejected.

My mind was blank, blank-er and blank-iest.

I didn't believe it initially because it seems illogically. I mean, no one would particularly reach you for bad news but people do this for good news. That is why I felt weird that my friend came all the way from front to the back of warehouse to tell me that: "Hey your application is rejected."

We all know the importance of applying it.

However I dare not believe that it could be a good news. From the facial expression of my friend, I believed that he was trying to fool me. But why would he do so? Does it mean that the result was opposite of what he said?

I said: "Nah... don't you try to lie.."

He insisted: "I am telling the truth, you are REJECTED."

Man... my mind was TOTALLY BLANK. I could feel my voice shaking: "Sure or not..? I checked the email this morning but I didn't receive any notification."

My friend replied: "Why don't you go and ask them." By them he meant the higher level management.

So I walked into the office and saw a bunch of people gathered in front of a table. It seems like they were reading some documents. And someone passed me a document: "Here, your rejection letter." with a smile on her face.

I saw it, it was document which looked exactly same as baby's approval letter! Darn, my application was approved!

Approved, approval, approval notice. How could this be? How could it be? It was my H1B approval notice!

Speechless, I did not know what to say. All I wanted to do was scream and jump and laugh!

I would do that if I were at home.

But I remained calm, with my hands and legs shaking.

There are so many things I wanna do. Inform my parents, call my baby, tell my brothers and sisters, then message koh ah meh.

Suddenly remember how people were talking about H1B, all about the frustration and difficulties. Never thought that I would have the chance to apply and eventually obtain it. I am so blessed.

Baby and I are not discussing our next trip back home. Yup, back to Malaysia. He is thinking about end of this year but it is a huge no no to me. Because it is gonna be the busiest quarter of my company. We thought of CNY but baby isn't sure about his schedule. Well, we will see.

Eligible to stay for few more years =D

2009-07-13T23:03:00.004-05:00

Haven't had anything special or interesting recently. Our life has been bored and plain.

We have been troubling by the search of new apartment. Yes, we are thinking to move. My workplace is too far from current apartment. We are considering somewhere closer.

Few weeks ago, a couple came to view our apartment after a few times of back and forth emailing. They liked the unit and have already submitted application. All we need is the approval notice from management, then we are good to go.

We viewed some apartments last week yet did not find anywhere that we really like. Still, we are considering somewhere that is really cheap.

I am really tired of moving, when can we settle down and have our own house?

Some friends have been encouraging us to buy a house because: current market value is very LOW, interest rate is LOW and first time home buyer will receive a $8000 reimbursement from government. Though it is a bargain, it has never been an option to us. We did not want to double up our burden since there are still a lot of uncertainties.

Speak to uncertainty, it's been months after I submitted my H1B application and two weeks after USCIS resumed my case when they received my RFE documents. I really hope that my case can be approved. I have not done anything evil so please spare some mercy. = (

Since the cap was not met so I thought (and many others thought) it would be easier for the applicants this year to obtain their H1B. Seems like it is not. Some co-workers have received their approval notice and some were rejected. I feel so BLANK. I really have no idea what I would do if my application were rejected. Shall I go back to school? Or maybe I should pack and leave? Or the last option, getting married?

Hope it will work out for me, at least.

**************************************

Another close friend tied the knot with her long time boyfriend. She had been asking me to be one of her bridesmaids. I wanted to but I could not. Damn I missed another memorable moment. :(

**************************************

It was a fine Sunday morning, baby and I were planning our shopping trip to a city near by.

Then we realized the traffic. Why the slow traffic on Sunday morning? Minutes later we heard the alarm siren, a few times. We saw police cars, fire engines and ambulance. There must be something terrible. So we rushed to the scene to fulfill our curiosity *with extremely messy hair*

It appeared that a truck rolled over on the highway. Then we smelled something, apparently it was gasoline. A tanker truck fully loaded with gasoline! After considering the harmful consequences and dangerous, we left.
.

We decided to continue our shopping trip. The other side of the highway was overly jammed! Luckily we were not stuck in the traffic! I would be so pissed if the gas price was as high as last year's!
.

A fire engine blocked the highway.

The traffic were reportedly to be as long as 8, 9 miles -_-"
.

We counted, there were about 10 fire engines, maybe more than that.
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When we reached home after our shopping trip (we went home through paths that seldom people go and we avoided the jam successfully!), the recovering was about to be done. We asked a traffic controlled man and we were told that a driver was trying to go from right lane to left to make an illegal u-turn on the highway. The tanker truck which was driving on left lane had to make a huge turn to avoid the sudden change, hence the accident. Fortunately there were no serious injuries in the incident. Later I heard that people were stuck in the traffic for as long as 3 hours! Man!

Lesson learned: never make an illegal u-turn when a truck was driving behind or next to you =O

Ciao!

4th of July Weekend

2009-07-06T21:52:00.006-05:00

The past weekend was July 4th - Independence Day of the U.S.

We didn't go anywhere this year.

Once heard that you need to participate July Fourth Firework to complete your U.S. study abroad experience. Ya, we did that for twice. This time we decided not to join the crowd, although the show was fascinating.

The firework was displayed along the bank of Mississippi River. So the two parks along the river became the nicest spots to view the show. I still remember that we had to park our car about 20 min walk away from Wilson Park (one of the two parks). It was also very difficult to find a good spot to sit because there were people EVERYWHERE.

The show started at 10pm and last about 20 to 30 minutes.

So.. one of the prettiest pictures we took during last year's show.
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How amazing is it?

**********************************************

Visited my sister on the next day.

We had a pleasant BBQ lunch on her deck.

The wild-caught salmon, chicken sausage and marinated mushroom.

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Along on the date were my sister and bro-in-law's long time friends. We chatted and laughed with the companion of juicy rib-eye steak! Too bad I forgot to take pic... all I care was eat!
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Let's take a picture of you guys!

Baby where are you looking at?!?!
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Mei-mei is almost 4, she wasn't even born until two months after I came!

I am missing the days when jie-jie was a 2 years-old kid... she was such a cutie. She refused to speak Mandarin initially. My brother-in-law was so mad that he told her I didn't understand English. She was thus forced to mumble in between English and Mandarin. LOL.
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Trying to light up firework after lunch.
???
. In day time?
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Cute :)))
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Final picture of the day, me with the girls!
<3

It was hard to believe

2009-06-28T01:00:00.010-05:00

M.J. is gone.

I was shocked and speechless when the news was confirmed.

I am not a huge fan of him but I do appreciate his musical performance. May he find his happiness and release in heaven.

R.I.P. MJ, we will be missing you...

One Fine Weekend

2009-06-21T12:00:00.009-05:00

It was the strawberry season!

Last year at this time, baby, his parents and I went to the same farm yet it wasn't open due to the weather. We then re-visited the farm at end of July but it was already closed (the strawberry season was short!). Well this year we were able to visit it perfectly on time!

Six of us arrived the Grayson's Berryland in Clearwater at about 10am.

The weather was good, a little too warm though.

So we picked the boxes provided and began our exploration!
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I learned that we need to avoid strawberries with "white tip", because they don't ripen after picking.
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Kept digging....

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We were excited to see so many strawberries =)

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Everyone was working hard.

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Baby: "Take a photo of the berries I grabbed!"

So I focused on the berries...

Baby: "No! You have to include me in the photo!!!"

Me: "Ok.. " -_-"
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My turn =D
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A group picture with our harvest.

From left: Baby, me, Michelin, Yusan, Sheng and DD.

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One more pic!

Don't forget to call ahead if you want to go... and keep in mind that the strawberry season is SHORT! Take action now!

**************************

Baby and I headed to a self-service car wash center to have my lao gong showered.

$2 for 4 minutes - 2 min soap spray plus 2 min water spray.
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Had my mats clipped aside.
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It was convenience and easy!

Vacuumed my car afterward!

I think I have fell in love with self-service car wash! Instead of paying extra money for drive thru car wash at gas station (with always not-so-clean result)... I rather do it myself with better result! Yay!

Something about "Something..."

2009-06-19T00:07:00.005-05:00

Just finished reading Something Borrowed and Something Blue by Emily Giffin.

The books were full of surprise and thought. No doubt a delightful experience to read The New York Time's Best Author's popular series.

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I got these two from eBay. Instead of paying nearly $15 for each, I paid $10 for a total of 3 book plus shipping. The third was Baby Proof, from same author. Will be reading it soon =)

Highly recommended oh!

Fishing Fun

2009-06-14T22:13:00.012-05:00

So long overdue!

Was supposed to upload these pictures 2 weeks ago yet some thing came out unexpectedly so I had to wait till now.

So we went to Breezy Point during the Memorial Weekend for our virgin fishing experience.
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Partial group pic on day 1. It was a beautiful day... a little windy though.

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Gas pump for boats.

Live bait. So called night crawlers.
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Discussing which boat to take.

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The ultimate colorful and reusable baits!

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The absolute beginner!

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Here comes our prey!

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After a couple hours of waiting, missing baits and losing patience.... I've finally got my first fish! A small rock bass! yay!
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WOW!

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Waiting... waiting... waiting...

Fixing... fixing... fixing...

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We kept a few of them... for dinner.
Most of the time we put them back to the lake.

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Baby had a huge one!

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We need pliers to take the hook out.
Cruel but essential.

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Let's take a picture of you all!
Baby was standing between 2 experts, clearly.

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Caught it!

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Never forget to take picture while having fun!

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On the way back.

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Baby with Ning Ning, a super cute baby of our friends.

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And we were urged to take a 'family picture'...

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Fishing again on next day morning.

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The preys - rock bass.

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Close up.

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After having about 5, 6 rock bass caught, I got a large mouth bass! It was bigger and heavier!
Who knows baby wasn't even able to take a decent picture for me, argh.

Before we calling off the day... an expert on board got the largest one of the day.

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Almost 4lbs.. isn't it awesome?

Laugh till I Drop!

2009-05-29T21:44:00.003-05:00

Their Ceremony

2009-05-16T00:53:00.005-05:00

It was the Spring Commencement last Sunday, we headed back Saint Cloud to witness bunch of our friends' honorable moment.

Hockey center, where the ceremony was held.

We were stuck in the traffic.

We went to the reception, where families and friends of graduates can sit down and relax before/after the ceremony.

Some very nice cakes.

Kah Yong - Biotechnology, Su Fei - Mathematics, DD - Social Work, Pulixila - Manufacturing Engineer.

=D

Tulips bought for DD and Pulixila.

The ceremony has finally begun.

Poser, hahaha.

This picture... erm, some of them were actually throwing their cap. Hard to tell from the blurry pic.

Baby and I along Mississippi River.

Congratulations!!!!

Create Your Own~

2009-05-12T23:07:00.003-05:00

..........

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South Park me
*created by Michelin

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South Park baby
*created by me =D

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South Park Michelin... oops... Pulixila =P
*created by me!!

Want to have one? Create your own at
http://www.sp-studio.de/
.

An Ugly one

2009-05-09T19:48:00.001-05:00

Just got a hair cut, an ugly one.

Why does it always have to be like this? No matter how I emphasize what I want, it always turn out to be the other way? Arrrgh...!!! That is why I hate to cut my hair in the State! Believe it or not, I only went to salon three times after almost 4 years in the State! Mainly because I was poor and secondly I do not trust them! Errrrr.

I wonder if you ever hear the quote "hair is the second face of woman", this is sooooooooooooo true. No matter how you dress up yourself, you won't be looking good without a nice hair style. Having a nice hair cut is so importance that it will simply ruin our mood for not getting an ideal cut.

I don't think baby understand this, he was irritated to see me kept looking in the mirror (or glass) and to hear my complaints soon after we stepped out the salon.

"If you continue to be like this, I doubt you should get your hair cut ever again" baby said.

"This is so short, not exactly what I want!" I whiningly responded. "I even showed her the hair style from magazine!"

"Then why didn't you stop her?"

"Her first cut was so fast that I wasn't even able to respond!" I almost cry "It was already short!"

I could not stop: "Ahhh... I hate this hair! I really don't want.."

"Enough!" baby yelled.

"... ..."

Seriously, am I being ignorant? It was just a normal reaction from someone who just had a bad hair cut! I didn't want my hair to be THAT short, I only asked her to do some layers and fringe! I got so mad because he did not understand at all! >:(

The 3rd

2009-04-26T21:57:00.009-05:00

Today is a very meaningful day for us, yes, our third year anniversary!

Oh oh oh I can't believe we've been together for three years! Ish! Feels like it just happened yesterday! Ahhhhh all that happens in St. Cloud...

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Before we went out for our third year anniversary celebration <3

So we were there again within a month.. Akita Japanese Restaurant...

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The third year effect.
Oh so sweet.
Baby going crazy.
Me going insane.
LOL.

At the end of the meal.. some weird thing happened.

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What do you think?
Left over wasabi... with some creative idea.
I molded it :P
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We headed to Brunswick Zone right after the meal. The initial plan was to play a bowling game but due to the exceeding eating, we canceled it =( Next time bah.
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Mini cake I made!
The initial look should be like this
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Who knows my mini cake turned out to have no space for a love shape. Bah!
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We are craving for it!

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Happily in LOVE ^^

I am really glad to have him all these years. He has been extremely nice to me - patience, caring, thoughtful, tolerable... and more! I really have no idea what makes him loves me but I know that I will be treating him even nicely for all the love he gave!

Happy 3rd year baby, you know I love you!

Recent

2009-04-20T22:26:00.008-05:00

Finally have some free time to update my blog... guess this is gonna be a long one.

First of all I'm gonna mention a little about my job. I think I am very lucky to obtain it in current condition. I received tons of emails which politely rejected my application, well, most of them mentioned that they received overwhelming application... even for an administrative job.

So, three weeks after officially became a working adult, I feel anticipated. The organization that I am serving at is an e-commerce company and it is growing. Yes, indicates that there are opportunities to be explored.

Something that has been troubling me is the distance between the workplace and my apartment, which is 50 miles and about 45 min driving one way. Got so tired every time reach home because it's nearly 11 or 12 hours since I stepped out from my apartment.

Anyways, it is my fortune to find a job here.

Till here I guess you might think "oh how nice to work in the States, she must be earning big bucks, having a lot of fun and enjoying her life there." Well, please do not think so. Because you have no idea of how my life really is. Don't forget that I need to pay all those living expenses such as rent, utilities, car insurance, gas, grocery, tax and much much more! Hey I just spent nearly $200 in fixing my car alternator! T_T

For sure my life is a little easier because there is no circumstance like earning $2000/mo but paying $500 rent/mo and car installment $400/mo. It is lighter of course but I am a fresh college graduate... to be honest I am still owing tuition fee at this point.

Oh ya, I am still struggling due to the status. Some friends thought that I can be living happily and will never go back. Hello, this is the United States, do you think it is easy to get a green card since applying for visa is already so hard? No doubt I am applying for H1B (so called work permit) but tell you what, it used to be extraordinary difficult to obtain.

Why "used to be" and why "extraordinary difficult"?

According to USCIS, there were over 165,000 applicants applied H1B in 2008 but the amount offered were only 65,000. How scary it is? Super scary! Government hence chose to randomly pick the applicants, that equals to whoever lucky can get their work permit! So what to do with those who are unlucky? Well, before applying for H1B, every international student can apply an "Optional Pratical Training" (OPT) which allows us to have 3 months period to look for job after we graduate. If you could not find a job after 3 months... then you will have to say bye bye to the States; if you could, your employer has to apply H1B for you... to proof that he/she wants you to stay because of your ability. So, if you are those unlucky ones, your only two choice are going back to school or say bye bye to the US after the OPT period is over (a year). Isn't it extraordinary difficult?

This year, many giant corporations are not applying H1B for their employees due to the economic impact. H1B cap was not met after 5 business days of started receiving application. We were so thrilled when the news was announced! That means the percentage to obtain H1B is HIGH! Yay! :D

Some pictures from taken from the blog of an immigration lawyer.

These are all the application being sent out.

Here's the link http://www.visalawyerblog.com/

Baby has received a confirmation last Friday. His company paid for premiun processing so he can get the result within 15 days after submit the applicaiton. Mine doesn't so it will take a few months to know. Wish me luck =)

By the way, some recent pictures:

What's going on? Traffic jam on Sunday noon?

Oh man.. can't be something good.

Looks like something big. What's happening?

Ohhh I guess I see something...

Ouch.

OUCH!
Look at the blue car! The whole butt is gone.
Hope the driver and passenger will be fine.
People like to fly when weather turns good.

Second car. By the way did you notice the third car? Ya there were a total of 3 vehicles involved in this crash.. man...

Some weird license plates we saw...

Click to enlarge.

Bugabu? BU-GA-BU?
???

Baby inspecting my car.

This bloody thing cost me nearly $200.
*vomit blood*

While baby was checking my car... I saw this thing lying on the ground. Well... I am pretty proud of myself because we handed it in to city hall :) Yes believe me. Although I am kind of broke, we did not take the money (there were a few hundred bucks! oops.. I know because I was trying to find the owner's contact!) We actually left my phone number at the entrance of the apartment but no one called until end of the day. It was Sunday and city hall wasn't open, so I handed it in the next day morning and... that's the story.

I believe that something good will happen and ya that was baby receiving his H1B confirmation =)

Are you drooling?

Last Wednesday, we went to a Japanese restaurant right after knocked off. My friend had been recommending this terrible-service-but-food-very-nice restaurant. What a meal! We had the all-you-can-eat sushi buffet and we ate till almost drop, yay! Baby and I are missing it and we have decided to go back for our 3rd year anniversary celebration (sorry to Moscow On The Hill, we will definitely visit you someday soon..).

Seriously eating.

Spicy seafood soba that we shared <3

One day while I was driving home... something weird appeared.

Then I realized it was...

Someone was "moving" his/her home!

Interesting? I've seen this a couple of times and this is how some people here move with their house. This is not so common but you will see it more often during Summer.

I know it is dangerous to take picture while driving... but I really feel like to share! By the way I wasn't driving fast :P

Ciao!

A New Chapter

2009-04-14T22:42:00.005-05:00

It's been a while since my last post. No other reason but I've found a job!
Yes, I am now officially a working adult ^^
Since my workplace is about 45 minutes away, I need to go to bed early to stay awake for the next whole day. As I have spent most of my day time on work, I absolutely don't feel like to 'work' with computer anymore.. that's why the neglect.

I've also gave my blog a new look! Well, I can't find a template that I really like so I simply picked one. Moreover I've deleted some old and meaningless posts. I am gonna make my blog a more memorable one. Cheers.
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Where I Stood

2009-03-25T00:55:00.013-05:00

Had a chance to meet Missy Higgin real in person.
I could barely find a nice spot to take her live performance and I eventually lost my patience.

A very nice song of hers, Where I Stood.

Babies

2009-03-23T01:55:00.002-05:00

I was tagged.

Kit Wai tagged me in her blog for an interesting 'game', the rule of the posting shall be:

Go to your Picture Folder on your computer or wherever you store your pictures.
Go to the 6th Folder and then pick the 6th Picture.
Post it on your bloggy and tell the story that goes with the picture.
Tag 5 other glorious peoples to do the same thing and leave a comment on their bloggy tellin’them ’bout it

And I found the 6th picture from the 6th folder...
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Her name is Ming Xuan, about 3.5 years old. She is my friend's girl, born a month before I came to the States. My friend will occasionally send me her family photos and this is the recent one. She is adorable, don't ya think so?
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Time flies, she is now someone's elder sister.

The little one was born months ago and of course I have not meet him yet... oh oh oh can't wait to hug them both ^^
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I am addicted.

I just decided to post another baby's picture because I think she is unreasonably cute. Her name is Vincy Teo, about 6 months old. She is so chubby and fair that makes me want to squeeze and pinch her =P ... so badly...

I bought some nice clothes for her when my mum came over (I asked her to bring it back in order to avoid the ridiculous custom). Too bad that she could not fit into the 6 months size clothes because she was already a baby giant! I just knew that she is 8kg as of.. two days ago! Wow!!
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One more picture of Vincy.. look at her chubby legs, awwww!!!

A Stirring of My Emotion...

2009-03-19T01:01:00.006-05:00

A close friend of mine was facing some life changing issues which had been troubling her for a period of time. Frustrated and depressed, she contacted me and of course I tried my best to advise her. Weeks ago, she emailed and told me the issues had reached its climax and she finally made a painful decision. It was sad to hear, I did not know what to do except giving her advice and encouragement. What she had encountered was like the storyline of popular dramas, you won't believe how miserable it could be.

I complaint, a lot of time. But, I feel ashamed when comparing to what she has confronted. I feel that my life is thousandth time better than hers!

Okay, let me reveal a little bit. She came from a not so wealthy family and she had to give up studies after graduated from high school, no matter how she envied me of being able to go to college, she started to work so she could share some family burdens. Unfortunately, in the past few years, some of her family members have passed away due to illness and accident. Just last month, something even unfortunate occurred and she bravely walked away to begin a new life.

What a tragic, isn't it?

I wish I could be there when she was down. I am more than willing to be her crying shoulder. When it came to facing the problem alone, you tend to think negatively. To me, a companion eases one's mind.

It was about the same period, my phone rang in an early morning (yes, as early as 7am, bah!). Early phone call always ticked me off but I answered it with no hesitation, because it was from another close friend.

I could hear a heavy nasal tone from the other side of the phone, my friend was sobbing. The reason? She was upset over her manager's decision - a decision of not assigning her to an important project that she had been desired for. The project was held in Europe and no doubt it could allow her to obtain precious experience and knowledge, she was drooling for it, yet...

She said that the manager has always appreciated her performance and with a recent promotion, she thought she could receive better project opportunity. However, she fell, severely, with such a high anticipation. She was confused, to accept the truth or fight for self benefits? I was confused, too. She had many reasons to deny my suggestion. I was helpless. What can I do?Again, I wish I could be there to cheer her up.

Last week, a friend whom I seldom contacted with messaged me, informing that she would be undergoing a surgery this week. Some kind of illness has been bothering her and it was the second time (as I know) she went into operation room. We missed phone calls from each others and I still did not have chance to talk to her. I am not sure that what kind of illness it is but I think it must be painful and difficult for her.

During her first surgery few years before, I was not with her and I did not even know (though I was in Malaysia). I was shocked when heard about the operation and I sincerely wish her well. My mum had an operation after she fell from motorbike and broke her collarbone. It was about 5 or 6 years ago but I clearly remember how hurtful it was to go through an operation. Not to mention if she was having some kind of cancer-removing-surgery (my guess only..) or whatever stomach-opening-surgery (again, I was guessing!).

Okay, I really wish that I could be there when they need someone to talk to. I am not a perfect person but I have a pair of ears to listen, a brain to think and a mouth to counsel. Somehow I feel glad that they thought of me when they need people to talk to, even when we are on two different side of the earth. It is like, you know that you are important in someone's heart. The feeling of not having someone to share your difficulties isn't fun, we all need companionship. No matter it is verbally sharing or physically assisting, you know that someone is there, standing by you, and be your pillar.

Know the Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs? An observation of human needs based on their inborn curiosity. The five levels in this hierarchy are Physiological, Safety, Love/Belonging, Esteem and Self-actualization. Okay, this is not the main topic but I am trying to say that Love/Belonging (the realization of belonging and acceptance) is ranked higher than Physiological (very basic needs!).
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The studies from Abraham Maslow shows that the fulfillment of Love/Belonging can overcome Safety and Physiological needs, depends on the influence of peers. Amazing, isn't it?

In conclusion... ... be generous to show concern to the ones around you, you never know how essential and influential it is to be thoughtful.

Oh the Beginning of March

2009-03-12T23:23:00.013-05:00

So baby and I were missing the huge, juicy crab legs we had at Treasure Island Casino, since we've moved out of Prescott, we decided to go to a closer casino - Grand Casino for its Crab Cracking Buffet as our late-celebrated-Valentine's-dinner.

It was a Monday afternoon. We reached our destination at about 4.50pm. Somehow I thought we went to the wrong place, looked like we were in a senior center rather than a casino (you know what I mean) :P

And we started the meal...
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Similiar to TI Casino, they have those bucket ready for the crab shell.

We were pretty disappointed, although they stated "Crab Cracking", only one section had the crab legs (unlike TI had several sections and they had hot and cold choices). Moreover the legs looked old and dirty, yes, I say dirty... there were some gross things stuck on the legs.

This is taken at Grand Casino.. notice the legs...
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Tiny

Comparing to what we had at TI...
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huge and juicy

See the difference? Well, the prices were different, the price of TI was a slightly higher than Grand Casino, but it was only one or two bucks different.

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The steak, raw and gross. Yuck!

We will never go back to its buffet, never. The food was not the major reason but the service.
Our waiter was damn rude! He didn't greet us at all. Some more while I said thank you to him when he took my plates, he didn't say anything but gave me a very rude face! I thought he might be in bad mood or what but he NICELY greeted other tables! Walau a, how could he! We didn't do anything inappropriate okay!?!?! Of course we didn't tip him, duh!

The meal cost us about $40.

Don't go if you don't want to waste your hard earned money.
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On the 6th!

It was my baby's 26th birthday!

And I wanna tell you that I had been planning a surprise birthday party for him since mid of February! Ahhhh..... the progress was so difficult especially when we are living together. I had to do everything secretly, yes, EVERYTHING and SECRETLY! This included inviting friends, buying gift, preparing/ordering food.. blah blah blah!

I was so afraid that he would find out, I had to hide all the stuff because he stay at home more than I do.

So I wanna reveal the progress... I started to plan the menu once the number of guest was confirmed. And I bought all those party supplies few days before his birthday.

Korean BBQ was a good choice for party.. since we have an adjustable grill. So I bought 5lbs beef and 2.5lbs pork and cut them slice-by-slice, with my own hand okay?!?! As I mentioned before, everything had to be hidden from him, so I woke up at 7.30am to cut and marinate them! What a task! My right hand almost cramp! (Too bad we weren't able to grill because we had too much food that night!!)

As I pretended so hard for his party, he actually found out...!!!! Found out the wall decorative items I hid in the luggage bag, bah!! But he didn't say anything... because he thought I was preparing a party just the two of us... it was closed.. *sweating.

In order to let my friends enter our apartment without my present, I mailed the door key to one of the guests and prepared an 'instruction' for them. That day, I pretended to ask him shop at outlet mall and we came back when they were ready!

Okay, before the party, we went to an Indian restaurant for lunch. The place is called Indian Palace.

I was amazed with the positive review on several web sites, so we decided to give it a try.
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It was a beautiful day.
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As we entered the restaurant, we saw a crowd of people queuing for the buffet line.

The restaurant was filled with the savory smell of Indian spices and customers' laughter. Very nice atmosphere!

After about 5 minutes of waiting, we were seated to a booth.

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The food was delicious. I had a cup of nice but over-sweetened mango juice! (Well, indian food!)
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The decoration was nice and elegant.
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We had a pleasant meal. Good food, nice service, gorgeous decoration and the price is reasonable! The total price was about $23 (with tips). I strongly recommend this restaurant. But remember that it doesn't have dinner buffet but only lunch buffet.
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Indian Palace
2540 Cleveland Ave N
Saint Paul, MN 55113
(651) 631-1222

We went back home and I asked him out to shop for about one and a half hour....... and by the time we back home...

"Happy Birthday!!!!"

Our guests were holding the cake in the dark and greeted him very loud.

Baby was shocked!

He later told me that he can't remember the scene of the moment he saw them and the birthday song they sung. He was way too surprise!

Cutting the cake... still in shock...

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The food line began, everyone was starving.

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They helped me decorated the house! So nice they all!

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Self-made curry puff, pudding and eggs.

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My poor guests had to sit on the futon frame without the cushion.

The photo frames on the wall only cost me $1 each, very nice and cheap isn't it?!?!

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Jenga session after the dinner.

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Scary high.

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And it finally collapsed...

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Again...

Lol, look at their expression!

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Baby's Strawberry Passion birthday cake bought from Coldstone.
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And a group picture is a must..

I really appreciated for their help.

They came all the way from Saint Cloud and Cities to attend the party, some of them even helped me pick up the food and cake. Wooi Keong even cooked his signature curry chicken. So paiseh lah me, had to trouble they all. It was so nice to have friends like them, I really appreciated it! They helped brighten up baby's birthday =)

After they left, I told baby my intention of organizing this party.

I clearly remember that two years ago during his birthday, he looked very unhappy. I knew that he had always celebrated his birthday with family and friends back in Malaysia, very happening and cheerful. But there were only two of us and I couldn't spend for party as I was still a poor student. Since then, I promise myself that I would throw a party for him whenever I could.I just don't want to see his disappointed face! So... here came this party, and I am so happy to see his touching face!

I wanna thank to my friends again, if you happened to see this post - you guys had made our day! Thanks!!!!
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One of baby's birthday gifts, we had a nice play although it was so mini!!

The Stickers!

2009-02-23T16:19:00.010-06:00

Do you remember that somehow there were trends of following the so-called "fashion" during primary school or high school?

My memory for primary school is somewhat blur, but I clearly remember how my friends and I drew Japanese comic girls on papers and exchanged it. 'They' typically had big round eyes, small faces, curly or long thick hair, and always dressed in those resplendent dresses.

During high school, there was a trend of school girls (and some boys I guess) collecting the packages of tissue paper. The colorful and cartoon designed packages hit the teenagers and no doubt it was the most fashionable items of the year.

Remember the name card? Yes, the thing we could order to put our names, address, and some primary information on it. I have no idea of why would we order it but I think the feeling of becoming an adult by having our own name cards and distributing it to others was one of the main reasons.

After all, why would I talk about all these?

Well, because something triggers my memories =) I had a chance to go through Gloria's Personalized Name Stickers today!

It is a web site which specifically sells customized stickers and it mainly targets family which has kids!

The web site offers various pattern of stickers which have Hello Kitty, The Dog, Snoopy, and etc. After choosing your favorite pattern, you can choose the font type and place your name on the stickers, and finally... it is your very own stickers (or your kid's)!!

The stickers are waterproof and most importantly... dishwasher safe! Isn't it great?

The bottom line of owning a personalized stickers is to protect your or your child's belongings so you won't lost or confused it with others' stuff. It is ideal for school, day care, field trips, as well as summer camps.

A sample, click on it to enlarge.
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If you like to know more about it, visit

http://gloriassticker.blogspot.com/

You can find the ordering process, delivery information and payment methods.

Have fun!

Melted

2009-02-16T23:20:00.004-06:00

He is a bad guy, a very very bad one.

Because, he is spoiling the lousy me!!!
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My Valentine's gift of 2008.

I was thrilled when he bought me this.

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My birthday gift of 2008.

Never expect he would buy another piece of this valuable.
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The Valentine's gift of this year.

I was speechless.

He put it on the dinning table and no doubt it was a surprise when I saw it in the early morning. Never mind about the values but the intention of him to buy me these is the most important thing.

I was almost melted *shy

What a Night!

2009-02-08T23:19:00.002-06:00

It was the annual Chinese Cultural Night!

Time flies! I was one of the organizers nine months ago and I had became an outsider last Saturday, wow, what can I say? =)

Anyways, here comes the pic..
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The fascinating backdrop.

The theme of this year was Chinese New Year Night - "The Golden 'Niu' Year".

It was hanged about an hour before the event started. We used to hang the backdrop a night before the event, so that we could determine if it could stay firmly or not over a night's period. Fortunately it didn't fall during the show... we were so worried.

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The side deco.
Can you tell what it is?
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Ong Lai.
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So you can see the backdrop, stage, side deco, tables and chairs.... This is taken before the event. There were about 45 tables (I guess) and X8 = 360 people. It was excited to know that tickets were sold out the day before the night.... bravo!
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Decoration team with their creation - the golden 'niu'.
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The event started at about 6.30pm with some little interruptions.
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Gorgeous long sleeve dance from a group of charming ladies. It was so beautiful... how I wish I could join them....
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I apologize for the blurry... my camera was a cheap one..
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Lou-San, a traditional CNY dishes which represents a symbol of abundance, prosperity and vigor. It contains raw salmon, white radish, celery, etc. You have to raise the ingredients as high as possible to represent "raise" and "getting better" in the future.

The emcees, Coi-san-ye and the president of the club DD were doing the demonstration.
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"Lou ah, lou ah!!"

Kindergarten kids brought us Chinese poem reading and Chinese folk song singing.

These American kids are enrolling in a Chinese Immersion Program which is a Chinese class program. A lot of them speak very fluent mandarin.

Singing "Pulling the Carrot".
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Don't you think they are cute?

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Coi-san- ye distributing the red envelops... with chocolate in it.

Chinese Cultural Night is a very popular event on campus. A lot of community and students have been anticipating this cultural event because of our past reputation.

As I said, tickets were sold out. There were many people waiting at the entrance but they had to return with regrets...

24 seasons drum from MAS.

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Kung Fu performance from another local kung fu learning center.

It was amazing... especially the young guy who played the sword. Audience were stunned, so was I.
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Another picture tells you how many audience the night had.

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Here comes the lion. A very owned lion dance from ICSA
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The team. They have been working very hard... physically.

The committees minus Calvin.

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Committee singing a CNY song as an ending.

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Audience leaving the ballroom at about 9.30pm. The night was officially ended.
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And a group picture is a must...
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A must... ...
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A must... ... ...
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Vivian and Jojo, dancers of the long sleeve dance.

Jojo did participate in another stunning dance - Peacock Dance. It was so attractive that I have completely forgot to take picture!

Vivian is a very nice person... so does Jojo!

She just came from Beijing and is majoring in Education. She is so pretty and gentle that I know a lot of guys are so into her (too bad she is taken!). She speaks like the Taiwanese top model Lin CheeLin and her English is fluent! Moreover, I just found out that she is leaving to Princeton University very soon! Wow! Can you believe it? Some one who seems like perfect in every way! Gosh I am jealous!
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Baby with his Klang brother.

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Cannot resist to take their picture = o

Back row = Huey Geok, Vivian, Julie, Jojo and Vicky.
Front row = YanJie, Yuhana and Ziyi.

Somehow I think that Vicky looks like the diving queen Guo JingJing... click to enlarge and see it yourself!
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DD, Hui-ling and Thasya.

Three different types of ladies with three kinds of cheong-sam.
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And finally.... me and DD.

Notice her face? I was the one put on the make up for her... I was her personal make-up artist of that night... and Yilin, too. But I forgot to take a close up picture for both. I was very proud with my skill =)

Shake it off

2009-02-05T23:13:00.007-06:00

Tired.. I am really tired.

After a whole month of accumulating my body fat, I found myself a way to burn it - helping up at the Chinese cultural night last Saturday.

It was exhausted. More details next post.

I am feeling tired now but it is not the main reason, because... I have started to work at a local restaurant! Again!! @_@

If you want to know why... read the conversation below. It was between baby and me, about three days ago:

Baby: "When do you want to sit at home until?"

Me: "Until I find a job."

Baby: "What kind of job?"

Me: "No idea."

Baby: "How about restaurant?"

Me: "..."

Baby: "You've said that you want to work at restaurant while searching job."

Me: "I've called but none of them want to hire."

Baby: "You only called a few in this area, why don't you expand to somewhere farer?"

Me: "... ..."

Baby: "When do you want to wait until!?!?"

Me: "... ..."

Baby: "Baby we are not rich."

Me: "I know."

Baby: "So when do you want to wait until...? Sitting at home doing nothing and losing the opportunity to earn money?"

Me: "... ..."

Baby: "Baby you used to be very hardworking, since when have you become so lazy?"

Me: "... ... ... *tears dropping*"

Baby: "... ...!!!"

The next day I kept calling restaurants within 50 miles from my apartment, and fortunately I found one which was only 15 minutes away and they were hiring full time worker.

By the way... baby, if you happen to read this post.... I am not lazy ok? I just cannot bear to shake my body fat off! It was very hard to have them grown!

Ciao!

CNY oh CNY

2009-01-27T22:53:00.014-06:00

Gong Xi Gong Xi, happy Chinese New Year! This is the second day of the festival, and I have been staying at home all day long!

On New Year Eve, I headed to my sister's home to help out her CNY party, the party was primarily held for her friends and their kids. At the mean time, she invited two students from China to present Chinese Calligraphy and Tai-ji.
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The girl from Shu Zhou was teaching Tai-ji..
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The most popular activity - Chinese calligraphy.
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Kids gone wild in the toy room.
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Lunch - Chinese buffet.

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We had a traditional reunion dinner at my sister's place that night. The dinner was pleasant, we had some Korean style BBQ. Most importantly, the ang-bao!
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My first attempt of raisin cookies.

I was actually looking to make some CNY cookies but most of them were difficult and the ingredients were hard to find, so I simply made this raisin cookies to replace traditional ones. This is relatively easy to make and the result was really good!
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Hainamise Chicken!

When baby's parents came over, his mum taught me to make this traditional Hainamise entree. I searched through the recipes online and did some changes. I added green onions when boiling the chicken.

It was my first try and honestly I thought it was a huge success!
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The skin was ruined... blamed on my rough skill of taking it out from the pot.

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Ready to be presented and to be eaten.
My白斩鸡。
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Close up is a must.
My mouth is watering again.
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And our CNY dinner begins. It was a mixed of traditional dishes and BBQ. We had a really good time.

When baby saw all the food, he was stunned: "So much food?? How can we finish it?"

"Chinese New Year mah, the dining table has to be filled with dishes..." I answered.
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Baby was very enthusiastic in BBQ-ing.
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And I was very enthusiastic in taking pictures ^^
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And above all............
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The lousy photographer purposely took this blurry picture!!!
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I Got Bored

2009-01-21T22:41:00.023-06:00

What can you do when you are out of school and jobless?
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My daily routine includes applying jobs, browsing web sites, watching TV, doing some self-improvements, tidying home and cooking.
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I am cooking for some reasons, these are:
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First, I am broke.
Second, we want to be healthy.
Third, baby wants to eat oriental food.
Forth, to build my competitive advantage (you know what I mean).
Fifth, I like to do something new.
Sixth, I have a dishwasher in this new apartment (I love it <3).
Lastly, I am pretty free. So...
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Today I decided to make some fried bananas (pisang goreng) because the bananas we bought were not so fresh and I really really miss this local snack! Therefore, without any hesitation, a plate of yummy homemade goreng pisang was born within 20 minutes =) .

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Ingredients:
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Plain Flour - 1/2 cup
Corn Starch - 1/4 cup
Rice Flour - 1 tbsp
Salt - pinch
Baking Powder - 1/2 tsp
Water - 180ml
Cooking Oil - 1 tbsp

At the beginning, mix all the ingredients and cut the bananas into pieces. Next, drink the batter.... oops.. I was kidding :P Coat bananas with the batter and deep fry in hot oil.
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Deep frying for three to four minutes until it becomes golden brown.
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Turn it over.

Here you go! My proudly homemade pisang goreng!!!

I give myself 4 out of 5 stars =D

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Close up.

Ain't it adorable??

Verdict: I personally think that the amount of the water should be reduced, it somehow makes it a little soggy. Meanwhile we can add more rice flour and salt. The recipe I found suggested adding some sugar but I didn't put any because banana itself has certain level of sweetness.

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This is really easy! Go get a pen to jot down the recipe *grin

Time flies and this is the forth year I am celebrating the festival in the States...

Happy Chinese New Year! Happy Golden 'Niu' Year!!!

Dong dong dong chiang,
dong dong dong chiang,
dong dong long chiang dong chiang dong chiang...
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My favourite festival - Chinese New Year is just around the corner. This year baby and I will visit my sister again on the new year eve and will also celebrate in our new apartment =) I am gonna preparing a BBQ + steamboat dinner!

Since young, Chinese New Year has been a huge and wonderful one to me. New clothing, new hair cut, new shoes, candies, soda, tangerine, bak-gua and the smell of joss stick =)) That's not enough... ang-bao, mahjong, countdown, having fun with siblings, visiting friends and relatives.... gosh I just love new year! Isn't it fabulous?

I guess, that is the only period that people can forget all their unhappiness and troubles.

Chinese are superstitious, that is why we love red and gold during CNY. Hanging all those decorative items is a must, this is how we soak ourselves in this joyful atmosphere. I decorate my current apartment, too.
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大红灯笼高高挂。
Oh I still remember how I was helping my mum to hang the pineapple lanterns. I am missing that moment =( 每逢佳节倍思亲，I am experiencing it.
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Again, we are superstitious.
Rushing to the temple to wish for good luck for the rest of the year is a tradition. People also visit temple on the night of new year eve. My mum brought me to the temple once, and it was CROWDED! Everyone was pushing each other and I thought it was suffering. Anyway we got my t-shirt stamped and it meant to prevent any possible bad luck in the future... until it was washed away.
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I am missing this. Mahjong.
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Although I had the chances to play it here, what I am missing the most is the joynous atmosphere when playing with friends back home. We were crazy about this game. We used to play it the whole night until morning and we also skipped class to head back home for the game. What kind of students were we?

I play it at home, too. However I always got bullied because my brothers acted like gangster.... forced me to pay even if I didn't lose the game....

Honestly, I am missing my family and friends.

每逢佳节倍思亲啊！！！

Here I am wishing everyone have a big fat new year (大肥年)!!! Gong Xi Fa Cai!
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Bak-gualicious

2009-01-14T00:36:00.012-06:00

是肉干哦!

My sister-in-law had successfully made a good-juicy-looking bak-gua in UK. This has amazed baby and he kept urging me to make one since then. This is how the story of making bak-gua begins... Hurry prepare your paper and pen to jot down the recipe!
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My sister-in-law's bak-gua. Looking nice, isn't it?

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So I found many recipe online and most of them are the same. Note that the taste of bak-gua can be varied from places, Taiwan has their own kind of bak-gua and Malaysia has our own, too.

The ingredients are:

Ground meat (chicken/pork/beef/turkey) - 500g
Fish Sauce - 2 tbsp
Shao Xin Wine - 1.5 tbsp
Soy Sauce - 1.5 tbsp
Dark Soy Sauce - 1 tbsp
Sugar - half cup

I wanted to buy ground pork but I couldn't find any at Coborns so I chose ground turkey. Keep in mind that turkey is more dry when comparing to pork, so you have to add about 1 to 2 tbsp of oil. I also added more than 1 tbsp of dark soy sauce because I was afraid the color would not be attractive enough. So I think I added about 3 more tbsp..??
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After mixing all the ingredients, put a portion of the meat on a piece of aluminum foil. Then cover the meat with a piece of plastic wrap .

Oh, before that, remember to coat the foil with some oil so the meat doesn't stick on it.
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Now, roll on the meat to make it flat, about 2mm thick. I don't have that kind of professional kitchen roller so I used a glass bottle, same result anyway.
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Put it into the oven and set it to 300F for 12 minutes. When it is done, turn the whole piece of meat over and set the oven to boil for 8 to 10 minutes. I recommend to turn the meat occasionally.

Please remember to remove the plastic wrap before baking. I learned from a forum that someone forgets to remove it, then... you can imagine the picture yourself -_-"
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So my first round of baking had failed because I didn't put oil into the meat nor coat on the foil. The second round of baking was half fail half success because I turned the temperature to the highest when boiling and my bak-gua was burnt. Damn recipe!

When I was still in shock and was trying to rescue my burnt bak-gua, the fire alarm was triggered by the smoke from the oven. KNN.
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End product - Half burnt bak-gua! I think the portion of survived meat was only 100g... I've throw most of them away.

It tasted really good and I urge everyone to make it themselves! It is not difficult at all and I believe it is much more healthier! Yay!
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New Members!

2009-01-12T22:24:00.011-06:00

After four months of resided at the north side of St. Cloud, baby and I moved to a new place - Albertville.

We moved on the 31st, last day of 2008.

Before we moved out from our previous apartment, we sold most of the furniture to make the moving easier. Now I feel a little regret.

Items sold were couch, TV rack, dining set, etc. I am missing them now. I really need a couch because I have been sitting on the floor for days. It aches my back when watching Deal or No Deal.

So, we visited IKEA to furnish our new apartment.

Of course, we will not purchase huge item since there are many uncertainties. Both of us might go back to school in fall; I might go back to M'sia; baby might get his h1B and we will be moving to our real own house..., so, we are not settling down, at least at this moment.

After hours of shopping at IKEA, we bought an adorable dining set! It was priced at $129, so cheap, isn't it?
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Assembly the set ourselves. The tool box was purchased from IKEA, at about $7.

One thing good about IKEA is that they provide flat-pack design furniture at reasonable prices. Fast, easy and most importantly, it is cheap.

I know I have falling in love with IKEA. One of the reasons is due to their environment friendly attitude. I was amazed to see that instead of using disposable plastic wear, cups and plates, they provide real glasses and plates in their restaurant. You can hardly see this condition in the States, or, any other fast food restaurants around the world.

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Half way done.

I bet baby could not get the chair done without me, or he would waste more time than it actually needed. He simply glanced through the manual and began to assembly it. We then realized some parts were put at the wrong position. I was the one who found out the problem. I'm smart.
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End product! An adorable dining set from IKEA!

Oops, sorry for the background. It was too messy. Don't you think it looks like we were having dinner in a warehouse?

Btw let me explain the stuff on the table. A tom-yam steamboat dinner to celebrate the arrival of new member - dining set! Yay!

p.s. we also purchased a not-so-beautiful-and-easy-dust-accumulated TV rack ($12.99), a book shelf ($19.99), a set of glasses (about $4) and some household stuff.
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Oh December 2008!

2009-01-09T12:48:00.024-06:00

I know I am late, but I really want to wish everyone a Happy New Year =)

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My December was a crazy one. It was full with family companionship, graduation and moving. Busy.. isn't it?

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My parents, brother and sister-in-law flew to the States to attend my commencement. We had a good time, it's been two and a half years since we last gathered (although most of the family members were still in Malaysia).

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The commencement was held on Dec 20th. However, it was not perfect due to my bloody-stupid-deserved-to-die-LG-phone. It was a new cell which I just received days before the commencement, who knew the battery died in the middle of the night and caused me overslept! Damn! When I opened my eyes in the morning, I knew something was wrong because the room was supposed to be dark since my alarm was set at 6.30am. Then I quickly flip opened the cell, damn it was died!!! Arrrgh! At that moment, I felt like to break it into two pieces!

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So we dressed hurriedly. Baby then left to pick my family and I stayed to make up (that was a must!!). But I started to feel butterflies in my stomach, oh man it then took another 15 minutes from me -_-"
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There was a snow storm, we could barely drive on the slippery road. I felt like to cry! I I missed the reception where the family could sit down for coffee and cakes. Too bad, I thought to bring them around the campus! And ya, I knew that they must be thinking that I am a lousy person who could oversleep on such an important day. But it really wasn't my fault! I swear that! I was exhausted because I did not sleep well over the past few weeks, I just got the final exams done. Moreover I had to spend time with them (I was not complaining) and was preparing to pack my stuff... so, it was normal for not waking up early since the alarm wasn't ringing.... arrgh I do not know what I am trying to say. I was mad at myself. Why would I make such a mistake?

Other than that, everything else was good.

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Picked up my parents on Dec 7 and we headed to a local Chinese restaurant for their signatured duck noodle. Look how big the bowls were. I could use it to wash my face.

It was not their first time to see the snow, but it was the first time they saw such a huge amount of snow. This was taken right in front of the China Restaurant.

First time to plow the snow.... they had my sister's driveway plowed completly clean.

I guess the neighbor must be very envy.

Parents visited my apartment.

My brother and sister-in-law arrived MSP airport at about 12am, Dec 12th. They claimed that they had spent over 24 hours to fly from London. Poor thing.

So here come the blizzard. The snow accumulated over inches and I bet they must be amazed.

I wasn't there because of the finals. I was hiding in my apartment to gawn the books.

Two very cute kids having fun on the snow.

The little one was holding a kind of tool which can make snowballs easily.

How nice it would be if they were holding gold...

Erm... what a creative snowman... or snowsquid..?

"Plow, plow, plow... I enjoy doing this."

And this is the group picture of Ang's Family US Trip.

It was taken at my sister's dinning room.. after dinner, obviously.

Tadah!! Here comes my prince =)

He is the greatest one. He fetched my family here and there with no complaint. He worked 10 hours a day and he was willing to accompany me for the family dinner after he knocked off.

I know he had sacrified a lot for me, and I really appreciated it.

My parents.

I would not be here in the States without their support. I want to thank them for giving me a chance to learn and to explore the world.

So this is when I entered the hall with the other graduates.

Spot me!!!

This is the ceremony. Graduates lining up to receive their diploma.

Did you see that beautiful back of mine? Ya.. I was walking on the center of the stage.

Yup, look closer and you will see me =P

Now I believe you can see me clearly... erm, at least better than the previous one. See? The photographer was taking picture for me.

Ang's Family at the SCSU Halenbeck Hall.

Remember I mentioned the snow storm? Well, it turned worst when we were leaving.

During a left turn at a traffic light, my car slipped off the road and got stuck in the snow. Fortunately I wasn't driving fast and it was only a slight bogged down. I was able to reverse the car and turn away... phew..

Few days later, my sister brought my parents to visit their close friend - Lynn.
Lynn and her husband then led them to experience ice fishing and snow mobile!

The little girl was learning how to dig hole on the icy lake.

Ice fishing and snowmobile are two of the main winter activities Minnesotans enjoy. I haven't had chance to try those... I really wish that I could try it someday.

I wasn't there, because we brought my brother and his wife to a nearer outlet mall to shop!

See the fish they caught?

See how my father dressed like a thief? :P

A group picture is a must!

Pay attention to what my father was holding!!

Chubby

A day after the ceremony, my sister and brother-in-law treated us to Radisson for an unforgettable dinner. It aimed to celebrate my graduation.

Too bad I haven't find a job yet, or I could proudly announce that I was hired!!!

Still, a huge thank to they both. Just like my parents, they played an important part along the journey, I would not be here without their help.

Aww, lovely couple.

.My adorable parents.

We headed to the cities next day. It was the coldest day among their visit, the temperature dropped to as low as -23F (as well as -30C).

The first stop was Alexander Ramsey House, the house of the first territorial governor. It is built in 1870 and remains well preserved. We would be able to take a tour to explore the life and decoration of the victorian-era. It was a pity that the house was closed when we visited.

We could only take some pictures infront of the house.

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So we stopped at the Landmark Center, where we had some coffee to warm our body.
It was the Rice Park across the street, we went over to take some beautiful pictures.

Big Head and Kiki left the States on the 22nd. It was a very short trip for them but we really had a good time! Thanks to the flowers, they were so pretty.... although they died after many hours of being frozen in the car -_-"

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And here it is!! Our memorable Powder Ridge Tour! We had a good time there!

Christmas day, after my parents had a delightful lunch at my apartment (Vivian was the cook), we headed to Powder Ridge Ski Center. I knew it was closed because of the holiday but I just wanted to show my parents something that they have never seen. So I drove my 1995 Nissan for about half an hour to our destination.

We reached there and took some photos... well, nothing to do so we decided to go home.

Who knows.. and I think no one predicts that my car would break down at that time!!!

I have been driving this car for over three years and... I admit that it has been lightly maintained, but, it never break down before. NEVER!

So, I was very calm at first. Because it never happened before.

I thought it would come alive very soon.

So I tried, and I tried and I tried!

It just died!

Then I began to feel furry.

It was 3.15pm and the temperature was about 0F.

No one was there.

Then baby and I decided to call Richard to come rescue us. But, what to do with the car?

Ok, we saw two closest houses and we thought that maybe we could ask the home owner if we could push my car over and leave it there untill we ask someone to come tow it.

First house, no one answer the door.

Then we tried the second house. I became very nervous as it was getting dark. Therefore, I ran to the house, I need help as soon as possible! I ran, and I knew that I could reach the door in just few more steps..... suddenly...

A black dog jumped up and braked at me.

I was stunned! Then I realized that the dog was sleeping infront of the door with no lash!

It kept barking and trotted toward us. I dare not move, I stood on the ground and stared at it. I knew that if I ran, the possibility for it to chase and bite me is huge. So, I kind of whispered to it: "Hey.. good boy.. we are you friends..." Oh hell I wish someone could come out from the house and save us! But no one came out. And how the hell could you leave your huge dog unlashed??!!!

By the way, it walked toward me and smell me, I wanted to touch its head but it was as tall as my chest! Oh man, so scary! Then it went to smell baby. At the mean time, I quick glance the surrounding to see if there is any tree that we could climb or any wood that we could use as weapon.. if the dog attacked. Then, I heard another bark.... yes, there was another dog came out from the house. My goodness. We were doomed.

Then I asked baby to slowly walk away from their territory and talk to them at the same time. I was trying to give them some signs that we were not harmful. They kind of following us till the main road and then went back.

I could feel that my legs were shivering. I do not know what could we do if the dogs attacked us.

Richard finally arrived (that was the first time I felt so happy to see him, haha) at 4.45pm. We called a couple of local towing companies but one wasn't open and the other one could not find an available tow truck.

We then left my car there with a note "waiting to be towed" and set off to St. Cloud.

The first thing we reached our apartment was to make something for my exhausted parents to eat. Then we have to think of a way to bring my car back. If I called the towing company from St. Cloud, it would cost me as high as $200! Sigh.

After we explained the story, Vivian's friend, Diana, who just came from LA told us that she could ask for help to tow my car back without spending a single cent. It was the best news that I've heard of over the whole 2008! Oh man I love her!!!

So, it was the most adventurous trip I experienced thus far. I hope I would never ever meet this kind of situation anymore!

Diana (my saviour), my parents (needless to mention) and Vivian.

We went to "Art as You Like It" few days later.

It was a place where we could pick any thing we like to paint on.

Look at their expression, so concentrated.

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Day before they left the States.

We had our brunch at Nelson's Brother. The sandwich I ordered was awesome!

That night, we chatted and had a good time eating Tang Yuan.

Finally, me and my sister sent our parents to MSP airport on the 29th morning. It was the end of Ang's Family US Trip. We had a wonderful time over these few weeks! Of course I think the trip would be more pleasant if more family members were here. Well, we still have a lot of opportunities! Cheers~~~

P.S. My car was towed back that night and it was totally free. We sent it to a mechanic and after many days of inspected, he found out it was because of the distributor. We fixed it and it is now ALIVE!!! Meanwhile, my pocket is broke!!!

It's Official... so?

2008-12-16T23:52:00.014-06:00

Yes, I am proud to announce that I am a graduate of Saint Cloud State University.
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But, I am informing you that I haven't find a job, since September till now.

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I feel lost, I do not know what to do next. It's like... I am standing at the crossroad and have no idea of where to go.

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If I couldn't find a job before mid of May, then what should I do? I am not ready to leave this country yet!

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Now I start to blame everything which result in this condition, poor economic performance and skyrocketing unemployment rate!

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Is it my destiny to go back to school just like others? Will this bring me to what I want to do?

I don't require much, all I need is a stable job.
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So I could start saving money, pay my debt and spend it as much as I like.

Some more I could fly to Hawaii for my dream vacation.

Well, I fell much better now... it's not the end of the world yet.

As long as we are holding a believe and put into action, the outcome will be incredibly awesome.
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Final Week

2008-12-10T20:19:00.000-06:00

Study, study, study...

I'm studying hard... @_@

I'm Thankful

2008-12-07T23:06:00.020-06:00

Me super busy.

I'm now using my precious time to update what had happened recently... so the entry begins...

Thanksgiving

We had a wonderful holiday! The fourth time to celebrate one of the most important day of the U.S., me and baby were invited to several dinners =)

The day before Thanksgiving, we had our dinner at the Yu's. The family came from Taiwan and are current reside in Sartell. They were so nice and they made very delicious east-met-west-turkey. We met a retired professor whose passed away wife was Malaysian and no doubt he was knowledgeable about Southeast Countries, especially M'sia. After the dinner, we gathered for some games which were to test our knowledge regarding to the facts of Saint Cloud! We eventually realized a lot of myths, it was fun! We had a good time over Yu's and it was indeed our pleasure to know them.
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See the Turkey? It was stuffed with glutinous rice and some spice, interesting isn't it? It tasted really good with the gravy.

Next day morning we visited Kuhn's, Vivian's host family. The family - Paul and Carol have a son, Marty and two daughters, Ramona and Maggie. The girls were adopted and originally from China. They were the nicest family I have met thus far. They treated we international students like their own family and took care of us wholeheartedly.

Baby was bored while others were happily chatting and playing... Everyone wrote down what they were thankful for on a piece of table cloth that Carol specially prepared. Here's roughly what I wrote

"I am thankful for...

- being healthy on my body and mind.

- having a wonderful family.

- getting happier everyday.

- knowing more wonderful friends

... ..."

I don't recall what exactly I've wrote but noted that I have included baby as my family.. yet he insisted that I didn't think of him. Whatever =P

The food prepared were marshmallow potatoes, pickles, sweet corns, mashed potato, green bean, etc and Turkey of course!!! Paul made three kind of turkeys which were original, Cajun and erm... I forgot the last one. Anyways, the turkeys were amazing and we had lots of it! It was so popular that it finished before I could take picture of it. Too bad.

And... here it came my oh-so-proudly-self-made-stuffed-strawberries!!!! Look at it, ain't it cute? It was worth to spend 1.5 hours on it. The dessert was so popular that I only had one, yay!!

Baby got bored again.

We went to walk on the frozen lake behind the house. It was about 10F and the wind was so chilled. My high heels didn't get along with the slippery surface so we only spent 10 minutes on the lake.

Minnesotans love to spend their winter on various activities such as ice-fishing and snow mobiling. How I wish I could have the chance to try these two... must be very interesting. Then... we saw neighbors playing ice hockey on the lake. How convenient.
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And finally it was the time for group picture. Vivian the picture coordinator had us posed at perfect position.
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Back row from left: YiHong, Baby, Guan, Guo, Marty, Jeremy, Cory, Shixin, Josh.

Middle one with puppy: Vivian =P
Front row from left: Cleo, Me, Vicky, Paul with Ramona on his laps, Carol with Maggie, Masami, Julie, Jojo.

That weekend, we went to Calvin's for dinner.

The turkey was super delicious... thanks to Cal, Sheng, Kai and Hui, we really appreciated it.

Lining up to get the food.
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I was forced to take the group picture, poor me :'( So I deliberately shake the camera while pressing the button! I did it purposely! I wanted it to be blurred! Muahahah!! Then they required me to take another group pic but I refused, and it turned out...

they took the pic themselves, ha!

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My long lost sista. Do we look alike?

Thanks to the families, we really had a good time. It was so great to know all of you here in St. Cloud, we were blessed!

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B-Day 120408

I am 25, officially.

Day before the b-day, I received tons of blessing from friends in M'sia and my family. How nice of them to still remember a special day of mine =) Your blessing and wishes meant so much to me and I'm glad to have all of you, seriously. It was very warm and sweet.

The day was bored and exhausted. I spent almost the whole day at school for classes, projects and papers. So tired.

While I was in the 9 a.m. class, I dreamt.. someone in the class knows that today is my b-day and asks everyone to sing b-day song to me... but it didn't happen.

11 a.m. class, I dreamt again... someone suddenly knocks at the door and enters with a bunch of roses, says "I'm delivering this on behalf of James to his gf because today is her b-day.", followed by a burst of applause... this didn't happen too.

It was so quiet and I felt a little disappointed. Why would I feel so? I didn't even know.

Baby picked me up from school and we headed to Ciatti, an Italian restaurant. It was our first visit and we were impressed because of the romantic atmosphere and Christmas decoration.

We had Calimari as our appetizer.

A good choice.

Ceaser Salad.

Cajun Chicken Pasta.

Some sort of chicken... I forgot its title.

During the meal, baby said: "I left my cell in the car, do you think I should go get it?"

I said: "Why are you so careless? We are about to be done, no need to go all the way to parking lot and come back."

Baby: "But I'm afraid it will turn frozen then my new cell will be ruined..."

Me: "Up to you."

Still he didn't go to get the phone.

When we were done, baby said: "I wanna go to restroom."

Me: "Why so troublesome? We will be leaving soon..."

Baby: "I want to go now."

Me: "Ok, come back soon..."

5 minutes later, baby returned with a paper bag on his hands. It was my b-day present! So he was looking for chance to sneak out and bring me the surprise which he secretly kept in his car. Awww.. my baby was incredibly SWEET!!

The present was a huge one, I felt so bad for throwing temper to him. I felt like I was a naive little girl who was very lucky to have him to take care of me and tolerant my testy mood. I don't know why would he treat me so nice while I am just a lousy person. I felt really bad...

The feeling was complicated. I was touched but I felt bad, I liked the present but I didn't want baby to spend that much money. Then he consoled me, so patiently.

I am thankful to have him, I'm the luckiest person on earth.

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Baby nicely putting the candles for me.
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Me and baby.
We will be the happiest couple on earth from today untill forever.

2008-11-24T22:29:00.003-06:00

Yes, I'll be graduating a month from now and I still can't believe that the day is coming.

Am I dreaming? Three and a half years in the States is like a dream to me. I have never dreamt that I would come to a foreign country and survive for that long! Oh I have to admit that I am extremely lucky to have the chance to come explore the world. Although the journey was not perfect nor satisfied, it has enriched my learning experience and widen my eyesight. A lot of things which I would never be able to see in Malaysia happened here. Throughout these years, I have grew up. Yes, both physically and mentality.

Papa mama brother and his wife are coming. It's gonna be a happy gathering. Can't wait for everyone to come.

Leaving SCSU to the real world yet I am not ready. The economic of the world is slump and the unemployment rate of the States is climbing all the way up. It is difficult for a foreigner to find job at this moment, especially that we are new grads who have no experience. Ya.. ya... it's hard. How do we compete with the locals?

To be frank I feel aimless. I don't know where to go and what to do next... it's like I am standing beside the crossroad but do not know which direction to go and have no idea of what I should do.

Thanksgiving is approaching... me and baby's schedules have almost full. Yes, dinner invitations from Wednesday to Saturday. My mouth is watering when I thought of the big fat juicy turkey. Gosh, I gotta think of some new recipes so everyone would be impressed like last year :) Still remember my super yummy banana cream pie, hmmm.. so tasty! This year I have to come out something new... that suits Americans' taste. We are visiting Carol's place and I think it has to be American style (although Carol mentioned that we can bring our own Asian food...) . Guess it will be an apple pie or some sort of strawberry short cake. I am also thinking to make some sort of sweet and sour shrimp, not that kind of Americanized Chinese food but real Chinese food. Guess it will fit well with the steamboat on Thursday night :o

*yawn

It's time for bed, tomorrow will be another long exhausted day.

~ When you have faith but have no action, the faith is death.

Aimless

2008-11-17T21:57:00.000-06:00

你是我的幸福吗 ?

2008-11-15T20:13:00.001-06:00

总是相信有更好的,
会在前方,
就不顾一切的飘洋过海去,
用尽一生寻找

倦了累了渴望拥抱,
却找不到,
才忽然想起你还在我身后,
静静等着我,
给我依靠

你是我的幸福吗 ?
为何幸福让人如此忧郁,
爱情渐渐模糊,
你的付出,
我总不够清楚

你是我的幸福吗 ?
为何幸福让人变得忧郁,
我爱你不再怀疑,
只想对你说,
我愿意

白日梦

2008-11-15T00:27:00.003-06:00

昨天遇见钥匙。
他是一个很可爱的日本仔，真的很可爱。
认识他是在学校的餐厅厨房。
还记得我们一起扫地，托地。

还曾想过要追他。
但遗憾的是我没有经验，不知从何开始。

一个学期后就很少见到了。
几年下来，只远远的碰到几次。

那天他向我打招呼，我太开心了差点没滑倒。
突然很希望变成他手中的咖啡。

呵呵，就想想而已。
白日梦嘛。。。。。。

我在美国 酗咖啡

回来了