Saturday, March 30, 2002
GOOD FRIDAY
Last night's service at CEFC was one of those Good Friday services that I unfortunately, couldn't get into. No matter how hard I tried, I just couldn't manage to keep my mind from wandering. Maybe because it was because these types of joint worships have all the translating going on. Maybe it was because of the dim lighting (we asked Nathan Cheung to turn the lights up so we wouldn't be as inclined to fall asleep). Maybe it was because I didn't take a nap (I'm grown quite accustomed to taking naps now that I can). And maybe because I was joking around with Suzanne, Karena, and the other people sitting around me. Whatever it was, I was disappointed that I couldn't pay attention.
Instead, I thought back to a musical the Youth Choir put on way, way, way back in the day when people my age were in Youth Choir. They all were holding unlit candles with one large lit candle in front of all of them. The most memorable and most moving part of the whole musical was when each member came up individually to light their candle and say into a microphone, "He died for me. I'll live for Him."
And then, I whispered the same promise: He died for me. I'll live for Him.
Amen.
Last night's service at CEFC was one of those Good Friday services that I unfortunately, couldn't get into. No matter how hard I tried, I just couldn't manage to keep my mind from wandering. Maybe because it was because these types of joint worships have all the translating going on. Maybe it was because of the dim lighting (we asked Nathan Cheung to turn the lights up so we wouldn't be as inclined to fall asleep). Maybe it was because I didn't take a nap (I'm grown quite accustomed to taking naps now that I can). And maybe because I was joking around with Suzanne, Karena, and the other people sitting around me. Whatever it was, I was disappointed that I couldn't pay attention.
Instead, I thought back to a musical the Youth Choir put on way, way, way back in the day when people my age were in Youth Choir. They all were holding unlit candles with one large lit candle in front of all of them. The most memorable and most moving part of the whole musical was when each member came up individually to light their candle and say into a microphone, "He died for me. I'll live for Him."
And then, I whispered the same promise: He died for me. I'll live for Him.
Amen.
Friday, March 29, 2002
LOOKING AT LIFE BACKWARDS (AND THEN FORWARDS)
I read in the newspaper today about one of my former patients who died yesterday. He was a famous director, writer, producer of movies spanning the 1940s to early 1980s named Billy Wilder. Unfortunately, by the time I get to see most of my patients, old age has worn their bodies and minds away and the person I'm meeting is not really the person everyone reads about in the papers. So, I have to piece their lives together backwards. I worked with Mr. Wilder tons of times, but it became increasingly difficult because of the physical pain he was experiencing. So, I had to find out things about his amazing life by reading about it in the obituaries. How ironic! Like most patients, I meet them at the end of their lives and have to find out about their beginnings after they're gone. It's weird to get to know someone like this, but I guess that's the nature of the job.
I guess I'm thinking about all this because I just finished reading the book, "Tuesdays with Morrie" about a journalist who returns to visit his ailing former professor for 13 consecutive Tuesdays until his death from ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). It's a real easy-to-read page turner that made me think a lot about how we should all be living our lives, except that our society and our perceptions don't really allow us to because we think we have to make more money, have more things, improve our status. And I'll be the first to admit that those are real issues for me. I'm struggling everyay to find the balance between spending quality time loving God and loving people while still earning a decent paycheck that will allow me to support a family.
But I guess when it's all said and done, I wonder what they'll say about me in my obituary. After I die, I want some young physical therapist to read about me in the newspaper and say, "Man, what a life he had! This guy really, truly loved God and loved people."
I read in the newspaper today about one of my former patients who died yesterday. He was a famous director, writer, producer of movies spanning the 1940s to early 1980s named Billy Wilder. Unfortunately, by the time I get to see most of my patients, old age has worn their bodies and minds away and the person I'm meeting is not really the person everyone reads about in the papers. So, I have to piece their lives together backwards. I worked with Mr. Wilder tons of times, but it became increasingly difficult because of the physical pain he was experiencing. So, I had to find out things about his amazing life by reading about it in the obituaries. How ironic! Like most patients, I meet them at the end of their lives and have to find out about their beginnings after they're gone. It's weird to get to know someone like this, but I guess that's the nature of the job.
I guess I'm thinking about all this because I just finished reading the book, "Tuesdays with Morrie" about a journalist who returns to visit his ailing former professor for 13 consecutive Tuesdays until his death from ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). It's a real easy-to-read page turner that made me think a lot about how we should all be living our lives, except that our society and our perceptions don't really allow us to because we think we have to make more money, have more things, improve our status. And I'll be the first to admit that those are real issues for me. I'm struggling everyay to find the balance between spending quality time loving God and loving people while still earning a decent paycheck that will allow me to support a family.
But I guess when it's all said and done, I wonder what they'll say about me in my obituary. After I die, I want some young physical therapist to read about me in the newspaper and say, "Man, what a life he had! This guy really, truly loved God and loved people."
Thursday, March 28, 2002
FIVE QUESTIONS (CONT'D)
Just for the sake of being complete, here are my responses to two more random questions:
4. What do you value in life?
Maybe it's just the Chinese in me, but I value time spent with family and getting a good deal. First, family. I'm proud that for the most part, my family gets along with each other. I love that both my parents just happen to be the "glue" people in their respective families that causes everyone to get together. And I think we, as the kids, have learned from that. And that's why I'm close to both my siblings Ray and Sanj, and to all my cousins, from Allison & Jonathan to Joyce & Shirley. Secondly, a good deal. Yeah, man, I love clipping coupons from the Sunday newspaper and using them at Vons or Ralphs because they double them. One time, the listings of saved items totally outnumbered the listing of bought items on my receipt ... so I hung it up on my refrigerator door. It's nerdy, I know. But hey, I'm Chinese! Would you expect anything less?
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I generally hate this type of interview-type question, but since you, my kind readers, have asked, I'll answer. I hope to be married possibly with one kid living in a little, quaint (I love that word) house somewhere. I hope that I'm still not working at UCLA, but if I still am, that I would have moved way up on that perverbial ladder (and hopefully making enough money to afford me the house, wife, and child). I hope to be actively involved in the way my church conducts its business (aka either on the board or at least on a committee). I hope to also be involved in some side projects like owning some property or investing in something I truly believe in. I hope to have my friends over to visit regularly and have our kids play together while we talk about old times and sip tea or coffee. I hope to be busy, but not too busy that I don't have quality time to spend with my family and friends. Yeah, that would be perfect.
OH MY GOSH! How scary is this?!?
Just for the sake of being complete, here are my responses to two more random questions:
4. What do you value in life?
Maybe it's just the Chinese in me, but I value time spent with family and getting a good deal. First, family. I'm proud that for the most part, my family gets along with each other. I love that both my parents just happen to be the "glue" people in their respective families that causes everyone to get together. And I think we, as the kids, have learned from that. And that's why I'm close to both my siblings Ray and Sanj, and to all my cousins, from Allison & Jonathan to Joyce & Shirley. Secondly, a good deal. Yeah, man, I love clipping coupons from the Sunday newspaper and using them at Vons or Ralphs because they double them. One time, the listings of saved items totally outnumbered the listing of bought items on my receipt ... so I hung it up on my refrigerator door. It's nerdy, I know. But hey, I'm Chinese! Would you expect anything less?
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I generally hate this type of interview-type question, but since you, my kind readers, have asked, I'll answer. I hope to be married possibly with one kid living in a little, quaint (I love that word) house somewhere. I hope that I'm still not working at UCLA, but if I still am, that I would have moved way up on that perverbial ladder (and hopefully making enough money to afford me the house, wife, and child). I hope to be actively involved in the way my church conducts its business (aka either on the board or at least on a committee). I hope to also be involved in some side projects like owning some property or investing in something I truly believe in. I hope to have my friends over to visit regularly and have our kids play together while we talk about old times and sip tea or coffee. I hope to be busy, but not too busy that I don't have quality time to spend with my family and friends. Yeah, that would be perfect.
OH MY GOSH! How scary is this?!?
Wednesday, March 27, 2002
FIVE QUESTIONS
How's this for being prideful? I'm really impressed with myself for coming up with that Five Questions game we usually play at small group outings. It really provides an opportunity for deeper thinking and for deeper relationship into someone's life by uncovering their struggles, expectations, etc. And it's only fair that I subject myself to this same torture so I'm more than willing to put myself in the hot seat. For time and space's sake, here are THREE questions I have asked myself that I will now answer:
1. What things scare you?
I have this really irrational fear of knives and other sharp objects (especially the sharp edges on the Saran wrap and aluminum foil boxes). I go crazy when a knife gets out of control when I'm washig them or when my hand gets even remotely close to the Saran wrap box (I've cut my hands on both in the past). And if you really want a laugh, watch me try to slice vegetables. Pathetic! Oh, and like Luong Baby, I'm really, really, really afraid of spiders. Can't stand those suckers, but I try not to kill them because I know they're mostly good.
2. Name some things you're passionate about.
As I have mentioned before, I'm most passionate about my sense of duty. If I'm supposed to be somewhere, I'll do whatever I can to be there. Like Keanu says in the movie "Hardball:" "I'm amazed by your ability to show up." A cheesy line, I know, but so appropriate for me. I'm passionate about increasing my faith and about gaining both useful and useless information. (I think I get that from my dad, who always has to show off just how much he knows - and he knows A LOT!!!) Let's just say that if they ever made a father and son Jeopardy, we'd walk away millionaires.
3. Name someone you admire at church and explain why.
One of the people I admire most at CEFC is Janet Hall for many reasons. First, she is a very devoted follower of Jesus Christ. Her faith is strong and unwavering, even during the most trying times. She is a loving wife to Dewey and extremely supportive. She is a great mother to Lauren and Austin, often making large sacrifices for their benefit without complaint. She is also very encouraging to those around her and is quick to lift others up in prayer. Plus, she is extremely talented in the area of music. My favorite thing is to watch her play the organ during offering. She always is able to adapt the song to make it end just perfectly as the pastor steps up to the pulpit to speak. Perfect timing every time!
How's this for being prideful? I'm really impressed with myself for coming up with that Five Questions game we usually play at small group outings. It really provides an opportunity for deeper thinking and for deeper relationship into someone's life by uncovering their struggles, expectations, etc. And it's only fair that I subject myself to this same torture so I'm more than willing to put myself in the hot seat. For time and space's sake, here are THREE questions I have asked myself that I will now answer:
1. What things scare you?
I have this really irrational fear of knives and other sharp objects (especially the sharp edges on the Saran wrap and aluminum foil boxes). I go crazy when a knife gets out of control when I'm washig them or when my hand gets even remotely close to the Saran wrap box (I've cut my hands on both in the past). And if you really want a laugh, watch me try to slice vegetables. Pathetic! Oh, and like Luong Baby, I'm really, really, really afraid of spiders. Can't stand those suckers, but I try not to kill them because I know they're mostly good.
2. Name some things you're passionate about.
As I have mentioned before, I'm most passionate about my sense of duty. If I'm supposed to be somewhere, I'll do whatever I can to be there. Like Keanu says in the movie "Hardball:" "I'm amazed by your ability to show up." A cheesy line, I know, but so appropriate for me. I'm passionate about increasing my faith and about gaining both useful and useless information. (I think I get that from my dad, who always has to show off just how much he knows - and he knows A LOT!!!) Let's just say that if they ever made a father and son Jeopardy, we'd walk away millionaires.
3. Name someone you admire at church and explain why.
One of the people I admire most at CEFC is Janet Hall for many reasons. First, she is a very devoted follower of Jesus Christ. Her faith is strong and unwavering, even during the most trying times. She is a loving wife to Dewey and extremely supportive. She is a great mother to Lauren and Austin, often making large sacrifices for their benefit without complaint. She is also very encouraging to those around her and is quick to lift others up in prayer. Plus, she is extremely talented in the area of music. My favorite thing is to watch her play the organ during offering. She always is able to adapt the song to make it end just perfectly as the pastor steps up to the pulpit to speak. Perfect timing every time!
Tuesday, March 26, 2002
FREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEDOM!
First off, I'm feeling much more inspired today so thanks to everyone who endured my uninspired ranting and raving yesterday.
Maybe this new inspiration has something to do with my newfound freedom. I feel like I'm 16 again because for the first time in weeks, I'm able to walk around the house a little bit without crutches and do some driving with only minimal discomfort (except when this crazy driver cut me off on the freeway and I had to manuever and brake suddely, causing me to tweak my knee). But anyway, I was pretty stoked to be able to walk around without being chained to those two poles. Those things have definitely worn out their welcome already ... in a big way. But the bad part is that I'm still having to use them for long distance and whenever I want to work on walking properly. See, I still can't keep my knee fully straight, especially when I walk, so I have to use those darn crutches to offset the weight so I get it and keep it straight when I walk.
But nontheless, the freedom feels good!!! Now I know what Braveheart was talking about!
First off, I'm feeling much more inspired today so thanks to everyone who endured my uninspired ranting and raving yesterday.
Maybe this new inspiration has something to do with my newfound freedom. I feel like I'm 16 again because for the first time in weeks, I'm able to walk around the house a little bit without crutches and do some driving with only minimal discomfort (except when this crazy driver cut me off on the freeway and I had to manuever and brake suddely, causing me to tweak my knee). But anyway, I was pretty stoked to be able to walk around without being chained to those two poles. Those things have definitely worn out their welcome already ... in a big way. But the bad part is that I'm still having to use them for long distance and whenever I want to work on walking properly. See, I still can't keep my knee fully straight, especially when I walk, so I have to use those darn crutches to offset the weight so I get it and keep it straight when I walk.
But nontheless, the freedom feels good!!! Now I know what Braveheart was talking about!
Monday, March 25, 2002
ON A SUNDAY AFTERNOON
After working up a sweat motoring around church on my crutches, I came home to eat lunch for a change and to get some much-needed relaxation. After seeing my brother and sister off and setting up the Sunday school refreshments with Karena, I was pooped. I came home and began to chip away at all the leftovers we have in our fridge from the big family dinner we had Saturday night. Sandra made a chicken marsala (sp?) and some rosemary steak (both were very good). Raymond taught me how to prepare his very easy Tater Tot Casserole complete with a layer of ground beef, vegetables, cream of mushroom, and topped with tater tots. It was very good, except the beef took forever to cook so it didn't get served until after everyone had alreay finished eating - hence, all the leftovers. Well, I had that for Sunday lunch and let me tell you, tater tots definitely don't taste as good as leftovers. I spent the rest of the afternoon chained to the TV remote switching channels between the NCAA basketball games, the Lakers/Kings game, and the Academy Awards. (Props to Denzel!) It was not easy doing all that channel switching, but as a guy, I have to admit that I'm pretty good at knowing when to switch back and forth without missing too much of the action.
Sorry, this is kind of an uninspired blog, but somehow today, I'm just not too in the mood. Maybe I'm still dwelling on the "no basketball" thing. Who knows?
After working up a sweat motoring around church on my crutches, I came home to eat lunch for a change and to get some much-needed relaxation. After seeing my brother and sister off and setting up the Sunday school refreshments with Karena, I was pooped. I came home and began to chip away at all the leftovers we have in our fridge from the big family dinner we had Saturday night. Sandra made a chicken marsala (sp?) and some rosemary steak (both were very good). Raymond taught me how to prepare his very easy Tater Tot Casserole complete with a layer of ground beef, vegetables, cream of mushroom, and topped with tater tots. It was very good, except the beef took forever to cook so it didn't get served until after everyone had alreay finished eating - hence, all the leftovers. Well, I had that for Sunday lunch and let me tell you, tater tots definitely don't taste as good as leftovers. I spent the rest of the afternoon chained to the TV remote switching channels between the NCAA basketball games, the Lakers/Kings game, and the Academy Awards. (Props to Denzel!) It was not easy doing all that channel switching, but as a guy, I have to admit that I'm pretty good at knowing when to switch back and forth without missing too much of the action.
Sorry, this is kind of an uninspired blog, but somehow today, I'm just not too in the mood. Maybe I'm still dwelling on the "no basketball" thing. Who knows?
Saturday, March 23, 2002
FAMILY TIES
I've had the privilege to spend some quality time with my family this weekend since both Raymond and Sandra came down to visit me. Of course, this just means that I have two more people now who can wait on me hand and foot! Ha, I wish. The three of us are supposed to cook this huge family dinner tonight - each of us cooking at least one dish. Four of my cousins (Allison, Jonathan, Tammy, and Kimmy), two aunts, two grandparents, and Sandra's boyfriend Gabe will be in attendance so the pressure will be on. But I'm sure we'll deliver.
As for spending time with my church family, we had a small group outing for Koinonia last night. We joined up with Reuel's group and went to Shao May's to play the game that I made up called Five Questions. The premise is that one person sits in the hot seat and everyone else gets to ask them whatever questions they want. This is a VERY GOOD get-to-know-you game because it allows you to ask questions to people that you normally wouldn't be able to ask. I highly recommend everyone play this game sometime!
Well, gotta go cook.
I've had the privilege to spend some quality time with my family this weekend since both Raymond and Sandra came down to visit me. Of course, this just means that I have two more people now who can wait on me hand and foot! Ha, I wish. The three of us are supposed to cook this huge family dinner tonight - each of us cooking at least one dish. Four of my cousins (Allison, Jonathan, Tammy, and Kimmy), two aunts, two grandparents, and Sandra's boyfriend Gabe will be in attendance so the pressure will be on. But I'm sure we'll deliver.
As for spending time with my church family, we had a small group outing for Koinonia last night. We joined up with Reuel's group and went to Shao May's to play the game that I made up called Five Questions. The premise is that one person sits in the hot seat and everyone else gets to ask them whatever questions they want. This is a VERY GOOD get-to-know-you game because it allows you to ask questions to people that you normally wouldn't be able to ask. I highly recommend everyone play this game sometime!
Well, gotta go cook.
Friday, March 22, 2002
THE BEGINNING OF THE END
Today, as they say, is the first day of the rest of my life.
I already wasn't in the greatest of moods because I had a doctor's appointment at 10:00 am this morning and I didn't get seen until about 12:00. Plus, my beloved Bruins lost last night. But I was still excited to have the doctor answer my burning questions and to take a look at my knee. In my opinion, I think my knee was looking pretty good thanks in large part to Karena doing everything she could to help take the swelling out. But we were still concerned because of my difficulty getting full range of motion. Still, overall, I was pretty happy with the way things were going and felt positive about the whole thing. But when my orthopedic surgeon began to speak, the news was all bad:
Your tear was extremelely, extremely large.
I had to remove about two-thirds of the menisus.
I would recommend you never do pounding exercises like running or contact sports like basketball ever again.
So, I guess Shaq and Kobe are going to have to hold it down for the Lakers because it looks like I'll never be able to join them in the NBA. Today, I have to hang 'em up. Today I have to retire. This is definitely the beginning of the end for me.
Today, as they say, is the first day of the rest of my life.
I already wasn't in the greatest of moods because I had a doctor's appointment at 10:00 am this morning and I didn't get seen until about 12:00. Plus, my beloved Bruins lost last night. But I was still excited to have the doctor answer my burning questions and to take a look at my knee. In my opinion, I think my knee was looking pretty good thanks in large part to Karena doing everything she could to help take the swelling out. But we were still concerned because of my difficulty getting full range of motion. Still, overall, I was pretty happy with the way things were going and felt positive about the whole thing. But when my orthopedic surgeon began to speak, the news was all bad:
Your tear was extremelely, extremely large.
I had to remove about two-thirds of the menisus.
I would recommend you never do pounding exercises like running or contact sports like basketball ever again.
So, I guess Shaq and Kobe are going to have to hold it down for the Lakers because it looks like I'll never be able to join them in the NBA. Today, I have to hang 'em up. Today I have to retire. This is definitely the beginning of the end for me.
Thursday, March 21, 2002
MY 15 LINES OF FAME
Remember when I said my goal for the time being was to get a "Letters to the Editor" published in the LA Times? Well, today, I have accomplished that goal. My short ranting and raving about an article they wrote a few days ago about unhealthy levels of arsenic in the water has yielded me the fame I had been searching for. (Wow, talk about a run-on sentence!) Well, okay, maybe not fame. But I was very proud to open the paper today to see: Victor Shen Montebello" on page B14. See, I told you Montebello is the city of winners!
Anyway, props again go out to Wing, Jesse, Pastor Clive for taking me out to Uncle Robby's for lunch yesterday, to Ricky for dropping by and having a little impromptu worship time with me, and to Michael, Jason, and Karena for coming over at night to visit. This was definitely the highlight of the past four weeks of being stuck at home!
Remember when I said my goal for the time being was to get a "Letters to the Editor" published in the LA Times? Well, today, I have accomplished that goal. My short ranting and raving about an article they wrote a few days ago about unhealthy levels of arsenic in the water has yielded me the fame I had been searching for. (Wow, talk about a run-on sentence!) Well, okay, maybe not fame. But I was very proud to open the paper today to see: Victor Shen Montebello" on page B14. See, I told you Montebello is the city of winners!
Anyway, props again go out to Wing, Jesse, Pastor Clive for taking me out to Uncle Robby's for lunch yesterday, to Ricky for dropping by and having a little impromptu worship time with me, and to Michael, Jason, and Karena for coming over at night to visit. This was definitely the highlight of the past four weeks of being stuck at home!
Wednesday, March 20, 2002
MOVIE REVIEWS (AND IT'S A GOOD ONE TODAY)
GalaxyQuest: A-. Even though I'm not a Trekkie, I really thought this movie was funny. Tim Allen had his moments (like when he's rolling around on the ground for no reason) and overall, it was pretty entertaining.
Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker: A-. I wasn't a big fan of the WB cartoon, but it's interesting to see what Gotham City is like with Batman and all his foes being old ... or dead. The voices in this movie include Mark Hamill and Angie Harmon (yeah!).
Blow Dry: D. This is a British movie starring Josh Hartnett and Rachel Leigh Cook about a hair styling competition. I was mildly entertained, but I definitely wouldn't recommend this movie to anyone else.
Ronin: B-. I've been wanting to see this movie for a long time now because everyone keeps telling me that it has the best car chasing scenes ever. True, the car chase scenes are pretty exciting, but overall, the movie was a little confusing and it didn't flow as well as I would have liked. And not even Robert DeNiro could save this movie.
Hardball: B+. Yes, Keanu's acting is still bad. And yes, this movie was #1 in the theaters probably way longer than it should have been. But the inner city kids that play on his team, plus the use of some rap songs that I like, made for a funny, heartwarming, and entertaining movie. Besides, it had baseball in it!
And finally, the one you've all been waiting for ... (drum roll ...)
Glitter: D. Props to Luong and Aaron for coming over to visit and to watch this lousy movie with me. Mariah's acting leaves much to be desired and, as Luong pointed out multiple times, Mariah also looks pretty bad throughout the whole movie. The plot is bad and the characters shallow. The only saving grace is that some of the songs are good. Hey Mariah, don't quit your day job.
GalaxyQuest: A-. Even though I'm not a Trekkie, I really thought this movie was funny. Tim Allen had his moments (like when he's rolling around on the ground for no reason) and overall, it was pretty entertaining.
Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker: A-. I wasn't a big fan of the WB cartoon, but it's interesting to see what Gotham City is like with Batman and all his foes being old ... or dead. The voices in this movie include Mark Hamill and Angie Harmon (yeah!).
Blow Dry: D. This is a British movie starring Josh Hartnett and Rachel Leigh Cook about a hair styling competition. I was mildly entertained, but I definitely wouldn't recommend this movie to anyone else.
Ronin: B-. I've been wanting to see this movie for a long time now because everyone keeps telling me that it has the best car chasing scenes ever. True, the car chase scenes are pretty exciting, but overall, the movie was a little confusing and it didn't flow as well as I would have liked. And not even Robert DeNiro could save this movie.
Hardball: B+. Yes, Keanu's acting is still bad. And yes, this movie was #1 in the theaters probably way longer than it should have been. But the inner city kids that play on his team, plus the use of some rap songs that I like, made for a funny, heartwarming, and entertaining movie. Besides, it had baseball in it!
And finally, the one you've all been waiting for ... (drum roll ...)
Glitter: D. Props to Luong and Aaron for coming over to visit and to watch this lousy movie with me. Mariah's acting leaves much to be desired and, as Luong pointed out multiple times, Mariah also looks pretty bad throughout the whole movie. The plot is bad and the characters shallow. The only saving grace is that some of the songs are good. Hey Mariah, don't quit your day job.
Tuesday, March 19, 2002
BENIHANA
Since it was Allison's birthday yesterday, we took her out for lunch to Benihana by the Puente Hills mall. Personally, I know that place is a little pricey for the amount of food you're getting, but I chalk that up to paying for the show the chef puts on. All that spinning of his spatula, twirling of his knife, fast cutting and throwing of the food, etc. make up the whole novelty of that place. But what I don't like about it is that they make you wait for such a long time. So, it's imperative you always go there with people you can have good, long conversations so you don't die of boredom.
With all that in mind, I found it interesting that we sat with a woman who had ordered two entrees for herself (one of them "to go"). I guess if you order to go, you still have to sit and wait until the whole chef show is done before they can put it in a box for you. And once the food she ordered was done, she took literally two bites out of it and said, "Can you box mine up too?" Unbelieveable. She should have just gone to Sam Woo if she was going to eat like that. And she didn't eat one bite of her vegetables. All wasted! That was killing the Chinese part inside of me.
The two people on the other side of us were interesting too. I couldn't tell if they were on a date or out for lunch on business. It looked to me like there was a little hanky panky going on in the office if you ask me. But anyway, while the chef was cooking and putting on his show, they weren't even looking at him ... at all! Now excuse me, but I thought the whole point of going to Benihana is to watch the chefs work their magic. But they didn't even care. I was so appalled that I was going to lean over and ask them to watch out of courtesy to the chef!
I had the Lunch Delight (chicken and shrimp). The chicken was VERY good and the shrimp was not bad. I also had a Banana Berry Smoothie, but personally, I think the one that you can get at Costco tastes better. But they gave Allison a sliced-pineapple and sang happy birthday with a tambourine and even took a Polaroid of us and put it in a frame for her birthday. So, I think she was happy. And really, that's all that matters.
Since it was Allison's birthday yesterday, we took her out for lunch to Benihana by the Puente Hills mall. Personally, I know that place is a little pricey for the amount of food you're getting, but I chalk that up to paying for the show the chef puts on. All that spinning of his spatula, twirling of his knife, fast cutting and throwing of the food, etc. make up the whole novelty of that place. But what I don't like about it is that they make you wait for such a long time. So, it's imperative you always go there with people you can have good, long conversations so you don't die of boredom.
With all that in mind, I found it interesting that we sat with a woman who had ordered two entrees for herself (one of them "to go"). I guess if you order to go, you still have to sit and wait until the whole chef show is done before they can put it in a box for you. And once the food she ordered was done, she took literally two bites out of it and said, "Can you box mine up too?" Unbelieveable. She should have just gone to Sam Woo if she was going to eat like that. And she didn't eat one bite of her vegetables. All wasted! That was killing the Chinese part inside of me.
The two people on the other side of us were interesting too. I couldn't tell if they were on a date or out for lunch on business. It looked to me like there was a little hanky panky going on in the office if you ask me. But anyway, while the chef was cooking and putting on his show, they weren't even looking at him ... at all! Now excuse me, but I thought the whole point of going to Benihana is to watch the chefs work their magic. But they didn't even care. I was so appalled that I was going to lean over and ask them to watch out of courtesy to the chef!
I had the Lunch Delight (chicken and shrimp). The chicken was VERY good and the shrimp was not bad. I also had a Banana Berry Smoothie, but personally, I think the one that you can get at Costco tastes better. But they gave Allison a sliced-pineapple and sang happy birthday with a tambourine and even took a Polaroid of us and put it in a frame for her birthday. So, I think she was happy. And really, that's all that matters.
Monday, March 18, 2002
THREE FOR THE PRICE OF NONE
I had the pleasure (or the misery) of having three PTs treat me for about three hours yesterday afternoon. Yup, you heard me correctly: THREE HOURS!!! Karena, Mark, and Gina were all here to lend moral support, but also to get me to do more knee extension exercises and to put more weight on my leg. And although it was very nice of all three of them to be here, it was very painful for me. But after Karena pushed out a lot of the swelling that is in my lower leg (especially just above my knee cap) for about an hour, I was able to contract my quads a little more (accent on the words "a little"). And that's the #1 goal for now - full knee extension (I'm about 20 degrees away according to Karena and Gina, but I think it's more like 10 degrees). At least I was able to distract myself from all this craziness by watching and re-watching highlights of my beloved Bruins upsetting #1 seed Cincinnati yesterday.
But still, let me tell it to you all straight: Sometimes, it just doesn't pay to have a girlfriend and good friends who are PTs! =)
And a quick shout-out to my cousin Allison who celebrates her 17th birthday today. 17?!? Can you believe it?
I had the pleasure (or the misery) of having three PTs treat me for about three hours yesterday afternoon. Yup, you heard me correctly: THREE HOURS!!! Karena, Mark, and Gina were all here to lend moral support, but also to get me to do more knee extension exercises and to put more weight on my leg. And although it was very nice of all three of them to be here, it was very painful for me. But after Karena pushed out a lot of the swelling that is in my lower leg (especially just above my knee cap) for about an hour, I was able to contract my quads a little more (accent on the words "a little"). And that's the #1 goal for now - full knee extension (I'm about 20 degrees away according to Karena and Gina, but I think it's more like 10 degrees). At least I was able to distract myself from all this craziness by watching and re-watching highlights of my beloved Bruins upsetting #1 seed Cincinnati yesterday.
But still, let me tell it to you all straight: Sometimes, it just doesn't pay to have a girlfriend and good friends who are PTs! =)
And a quick shout-out to my cousin Allison who celebrates her 17th birthday today. 17?!? Can you believe it?
Sunday, March 17, 2002
BASKETBALL AS ESCAPE
If there is one silver lining in this whole knee fiasco, it's that I've been home to watch the entire NCAA basketball tournament (aka March Madness). It was a welcomed escape from the fear of imminent surgery while watching on Thursday, a welcomed distraction on the actual surgery date, and a welcomed escape again after the surgery.
And I hate to admit it, but I nearly watched all 12 hours of CBS's coverage on Thursday. The only games I missed on Friday were those that went on while I was in surgery. And I only missed about an hour of Saturday's 9 hours of coverage because I took a nap.
But today? Yes, even though UCLA is playing at 9:10 PST, I'm hoping to be missing it and the games that follow it ... so I can go to church. I'm still not as mobile as I was before the surgery because of pain and less range of motion, but I'm going to try because: (1) I want to be there and (2) I really, really, really need to get out of this house for a little while. Spending all day at home in front of the TV watching basketball, even for an avid fan like me, is no way to live!
If there is one silver lining in this whole knee fiasco, it's that I've been home to watch the entire NCAA basketball tournament (aka March Madness). It was a welcomed escape from the fear of imminent surgery while watching on Thursday, a welcomed distraction on the actual surgery date, and a welcomed escape again after the surgery.
And I hate to admit it, but I nearly watched all 12 hours of CBS's coverage on Thursday. The only games I missed on Friday were those that went on while I was in surgery. And I only missed about an hour of Saturday's 9 hours of coverage because I took a nap.
But today? Yes, even though UCLA is playing at 9:10 PST, I'm hoping to be missing it and the games that follow it ... so I can go to church. I'm still not as mobile as I was before the surgery because of pain and less range of motion, but I'm going to try because: (1) I want to be there and (2) I really, really, really need to get out of this house for a little while. Spending all day at home in front of the TV watching basketball, even for an avid fan like me, is no way to live!
Saturday, March 16, 2002
STILL ALIVE AND KICKIN'
Well, okay, maybe not kicking, but I made it after knee surgery yesterday. And thank God!
Before the surgery, I had a good time joking with my anesthesiologist (I hate spelling that word) and my nurse because they're both from USC. The anesthesiologist joked and said I might be vomiting after the surgery, but it could be from the Bruins poor play. He was right about the vomiting, but SO wrong about UCLA. Anyways, the whole anesthesia thing is so interesting because he said, "Have a nice sleep, Victor. You'll be out in thirty seconds ... or less" But by the time he said "thirty seconds" I could already feel my eyelids getting heavy. And just to spite him, I thought, "No. I'm going to see if I could fight the anesthesia and stay awake." (I don't know why I think rebellious thoughts like this sometime?!?) But two seconds later, I said, "Ah, screw it! It's too hard" and I feel fast asleep. The next thing I knew, my nurse woke me up in the recovery room to tell me my dad had arrived to pick me up. That anesthesia is some pretty amazing stuff.
I spent last night watching the Bruins victory (yeah, baby!) and throwing up uncontrollably. Good thing Karena was sweet enough to make me jello because she knew about my theory. See, when I know I'm going to throw up, I like to eat jello because it tastes the same going in as it does coming out. It's not like most food which taste and smell bad on its way out. But with jello, you're throwing up and then you think to yourself, "Mmm. Grape flavor! Yum!" I recommend you all try it sometime.
And today, my knee aches like you wouldn't believe .. and I'm all drugged out on pain meds. I'm supposed to start bending it and straightening it as much as I can, so we'll see what happens. I'll keep you posted.
Thanks to all of you for your prayers, well-wishes, and phone calls. You really know how to make a crippled brother feel loved.
Well, okay, maybe not kicking, but I made it after knee surgery yesterday. And thank God!
Before the surgery, I had a good time joking with my anesthesiologist (I hate spelling that word) and my nurse because they're both from USC. The anesthesiologist joked and said I might be vomiting after the surgery, but it could be from the Bruins poor play. He was right about the vomiting, but SO wrong about UCLA. Anyways, the whole anesthesia thing is so interesting because he said, "Have a nice sleep, Victor. You'll be out in thirty seconds ... or less" But by the time he said "thirty seconds" I could already feel my eyelids getting heavy. And just to spite him, I thought, "No. I'm going to see if I could fight the anesthesia and stay awake." (I don't know why I think rebellious thoughts like this sometime?!?) But two seconds later, I said, "Ah, screw it! It's too hard" and I feel fast asleep. The next thing I knew, my nurse woke me up in the recovery room to tell me my dad had arrived to pick me up. That anesthesia is some pretty amazing stuff.
I spent last night watching the Bruins victory (yeah, baby!) and throwing up uncontrollably. Good thing Karena was sweet enough to make me jello because she knew about my theory. See, when I know I'm going to throw up, I like to eat jello because it tastes the same going in as it does coming out. It's not like most food which taste and smell bad on its way out. But with jello, you're throwing up and then you think to yourself, "Mmm. Grape flavor! Yum!" I recommend you all try it sometime.
And today, my knee aches like you wouldn't believe .. and I'm all drugged out on pain meds. I'm supposed to start bending it and straightening it as much as I can, so we'll see what happens. I'll keep you posted.
Thanks to all of you for your prayers, well-wishes, and phone calls. You really know how to make a crippled brother feel loved.
Friday, March 15, 2002
PRAYER
Dear Lord,
Only You, who are an awesome God and the Great Physician, can do all things. Lord, I pray for safety today. I pray that you guide the hands of the surgeon. I pray that I will have no fear because You are with me. I pray that everything goes smoothly and that my recovery will be quick and successful. But most of all, I pray that, even through this, You will be glorified in my life.
In Jesus Name, Amen.
Dear Lord,
Only You, who are an awesome God and the Great Physician, can do all things. Lord, I pray for safety today. I pray that you guide the hands of the surgeon. I pray that I will have no fear because You are with me. I pray that everything goes smoothly and that my recovery will be quick and successful. But most of all, I pray that, even through this, You will be glorified in my life.
In Jesus Name, Amen.
HURTING MYSELF
After initially tearing the cartilage in my knee three weeks ago, I have managed to do more damage to myself. First, the excessive use of my crutches caused pain in both hands, both armpit areas, both elbows (from over worked triceps) and extreme fatigue from my left leg. That overuse of my left leg caused a blister to form on the bottom of my left foot that hurts everytime I put my foot down (except of course, I have no other choice but to put that foot down). I also ripped off a large chunk of skin on my right thumb while trying to carry a bag with some dumbells in them while still using my crutches. I cut my hand on the nuts and screws of my crutches and it bled like crazy. Yeah, I know, I know, feel free to insert your own joke about dumbells here. And finally, yesterday, I singed all the hair on my right hand off and burned some of my hand on the stove.
And apparently, I'm a real sad sight to see because when I went to visit my co-workers, one of them came up to me, gave me a big hug, and said "Here," putting $10 in my pocket, "go get yourself something to eat." AS IF I WAS SOME FREEWAY OFFRAMP CRIPPLE LOOKING FOR HANDOUTS!?! I have to admit that it was very kind of her and pretty funny (it's still making me chuckle). I, of course, tried to give it back, but she wouldn't take no for an answer. Maybe I should have rolled it up and thrown it at the peanut man! =)
After initially tearing the cartilage in my knee three weeks ago, I have managed to do more damage to myself. First, the excessive use of my crutches caused pain in both hands, both armpit areas, both elbows (from over worked triceps) and extreme fatigue from my left leg. That overuse of my left leg caused a blister to form on the bottom of my left foot that hurts everytime I put my foot down (except of course, I have no other choice but to put that foot down). I also ripped off a large chunk of skin on my right thumb while trying to carry a bag with some dumbells in them while still using my crutches. I cut my hand on the nuts and screws of my crutches and it bled like crazy. Yeah, I know, I know, feel free to insert your own joke about dumbells here. And finally, yesterday, I singed all the hair on my right hand off and burned some of my hand on the stove.
And apparently, I'm a real sad sight to see because when I went to visit my co-workers, one of them came up to me, gave me a big hug, and said "Here," putting $10 in my pocket, "go get yourself something to eat." AS IF I WAS SOME FREEWAY OFFRAMP CRIPPLE LOOKING FOR HANDOUTS!?! I have to admit that it was very kind of her and pretty funny (it's still making me chuckle). I, of course, tried to give it back, but she wouldn't take no for an answer. Maybe I should have rolled it up and thrown it at the peanut man! =)
Thursday, March 14, 2002
DIGGIN' UP THE OLD PICTURES
While Karena and I were watching the TV news last night, they kept showing pictures of the student visas of two Sept 11 hijackers that came through yesterday. And I hate to say this, but one of them looks like my PT school classmate. So, I dug out my photo album to show Karena and we both had an uncomfortable laugh about it.
But afterward, we kept flipping through my photo album and I had a nice stroll down memory lane. There were pictures of me as a baby (I'm happy because she thought I was a cute baby, but of course, that led her to sarcastically ask me, "So what happened to you now?"). There were pictures of me moving into our house in Montebello (a glorious day) complete with tiny plants that are now growing uncontrollably outside. There were birthday pictures with my brother and I watching Batman with Adam West (my favorite show as a kid) and my sister, with her chubby cheeks, crying. There are young Montebello Jets basketball pictures with Darian, Michael, and Jason Owyang, dance pictures from high school, college roomate pictures, graduation pictures, wedding pictures ...
It was a very nice stroll that lasted about an hour. But that just led me to the conclusion that I'm getting old.
While Karena and I were watching the TV news last night, they kept showing pictures of the student visas of two Sept 11 hijackers that came through yesterday. And I hate to say this, but one of them looks like my PT school classmate. So, I dug out my photo album to show Karena and we both had an uncomfortable laugh about it.
But afterward, we kept flipping through my photo album and I had a nice stroll down memory lane. There were pictures of me as a baby (I'm happy because she thought I was a cute baby, but of course, that led her to sarcastically ask me, "So what happened to you now?"). There were pictures of me moving into our house in Montebello (a glorious day) complete with tiny plants that are now growing uncontrollably outside. There were birthday pictures with my brother and I watching Batman with Adam West (my favorite show as a kid) and my sister, with her chubby cheeks, crying. There are young Montebello Jets basketball pictures with Darian, Michael, and Jason Owyang, dance pictures from high school, college roomate pictures, graduation pictures, wedding pictures ...
It was a very nice stroll that lasted about an hour. But that just led me to the conclusion that I'm getting old.
Wednesday, March 13, 2002
FUN FACTS
Here are some random, fun facts about me and/or my life as I've been hanging out at home for over two weeks now:
1. Daytime shows I like to watch, but don't necessarily want it publicized: Today, Martha Stewart Living, The View, Full House, Saved By the Bell.
2. Number of styrofoam boxes of leftovers we have in the fridge right now: Nine. With my mom still in Colorado on business and me still not able to stand long enough to cook, we've been receiving take-out food and home-cooked meals from just about everyone. We also currently have about four pots full of food that don't even fit in our fridge.
3. My new goal that I just decided to start doing today is to write a letter to the editor of the LA Times everday about something I feel passionately about until I get it published. I'm going to hit the front page news articles and the sports columns. Since I now have the time to read practically every articles in the Times, I figure now is the best time for me to do this.
4. One huge area of disagreement between my parents and me the last two weeks has been my ability to drive. They are adament that I not chance it, but I firmly believe I'm able to do it without compromising my safety. So, shhhhhhh! But I drove to pick up my knee brace that finally arrived yesterday. I felt slight discomfort on occasion, but had no problems slamming on my brakes when some guy cut me off and in general, I still feel I'm a better driver than most people out there ... except that I still like to drive fast.
Here are some random, fun facts about me and/or my life as I've been hanging out at home for over two weeks now:
1. Daytime shows I like to watch, but don't necessarily want it publicized: Today, Martha Stewart Living, The View, Full House, Saved By the Bell.
2. Number of styrofoam boxes of leftovers we have in the fridge right now: Nine. With my mom still in Colorado on business and me still not able to stand long enough to cook, we've been receiving take-out food and home-cooked meals from just about everyone. We also currently have about four pots full of food that don't even fit in our fridge.
3. My new goal that I just decided to start doing today is to write a letter to the editor of the LA Times everday about something I feel passionately about until I get it published. I'm going to hit the front page news articles and the sports columns. Since I now have the time to read practically every articles in the Times, I figure now is the best time for me to do this.
4. One huge area of disagreement between my parents and me the last two weeks has been my ability to drive. They are adament that I not chance it, but I firmly believe I'm able to do it without compromising my safety. So, shhhhhhh! But I drove to pick up my knee brace that finally arrived yesterday. I felt slight discomfort on occasion, but had no problems slamming on my brakes when some guy cut me off and in general, I still feel I'm a better driver than most people out there ... except that I still like to drive fast.
Tuesday, March 12, 2002
I'M INVITED
What: Right knee lateral menisectomy surgery
When: Friday 12:30 pm (with prep time beginning at 10:30am and recovery time ending at 5:30pm)
Where: Presbyterian Hospital in Whittier
Why: Because I injured myself with doing some Olympic-inspired acrobatic 720 snowboarding moves when suddenly ... Oh wait, I forgot. I was just getting onto my snowboard for the first run of the day.
How: Arthroscopic surgery under general anesthesia (so I may be throwing up while watching the UCLA Basketball game Friday night. Of course, if they play as bad as they've been playing lately, I may just be throwing up anyway.)
What: Right knee lateral menisectomy surgery
When: Friday 12:30 pm (with prep time beginning at 10:30am and recovery time ending at 5:30pm)
Where: Presbyterian Hospital in Whittier
Why: Because I injured myself with doing some Olympic-inspired acrobatic 720 snowboarding moves when suddenly ... Oh wait, I forgot. I was just getting onto my snowboard for the first run of the day.
How: Arthroscopic surgery under general anesthesia (so I may be throwing up while watching the UCLA Basketball game Friday night. Of course, if they play as bad as they've been playing lately, I may just be throwing up anyway.)
Monday, March 11, 2002
LOOKING BACK
After watching "9/11" on CBS last night, the haunting images and thoughts from that day and my subsequent visit to New York last October came rushing back to me. For some reason, I have really (no, I mean really) identified with this tragedy. They had some crazy footage from inside Tower 1 last night that I just couldn't believe. It showed many firefighters going up the stairs to rescue people and maybe put out the fires. But it also showed countless fire chiefs standing in the lobby trying to set up a command post there. And while they were doing that, they got the call to evacuate the building. It was so sad for me to realize that they had gone there to save lives only to have to leave frantically to try to save their own without even getting much of a chance to do much for others. It was so courageous of them and yet so sad that they weren't able to do what they had gone there to do.
While I was there in October, I stood there at Ground Zero with Karena and Luong and we took in the sights, sounds, and that smell I will never forget. We took a few photographs, but neither one of us feel it was appropriate to snap more. You know, after I took a photography class my senior year in high school, I have always been fascinated with photos which are able to capture the emotion of the moment. But two images that I really wanted to photograph, but felt I just couldn't do it justice or pay the proper respects were: (1) a candlelight and flower vigil outside a Manhattan firehouse that nearly overflowed into the street and (2) the countless flyers of those missing posted in Grand Central Station. Yeah, we've seen those images on our TVs sets over and over, but those two images are forever etched in my brain. Somehow, I wanted to take the picture, but just couldn't bring myself to do it.
It's amazing that even after six months, my emotions still run so deep.
God Bless America.
After watching "9/11" on CBS last night, the haunting images and thoughts from that day and my subsequent visit to New York last October came rushing back to me. For some reason, I have really (no, I mean really) identified with this tragedy. They had some crazy footage from inside Tower 1 last night that I just couldn't believe. It showed many firefighters going up the stairs to rescue people and maybe put out the fires. But it also showed countless fire chiefs standing in the lobby trying to set up a command post there. And while they were doing that, they got the call to evacuate the building. It was so sad for me to realize that they had gone there to save lives only to have to leave frantically to try to save their own without even getting much of a chance to do much for others. It was so courageous of them and yet so sad that they weren't able to do what they had gone there to do.
While I was there in October, I stood there at Ground Zero with Karena and Luong and we took in the sights, sounds, and that smell I will never forget. We took a few photographs, but neither one of us feel it was appropriate to snap more. You know, after I took a photography class my senior year in high school, I have always been fascinated with photos which are able to capture the emotion of the moment. But two images that I really wanted to photograph, but felt I just couldn't do it justice or pay the proper respects were: (1) a candlelight and flower vigil outside a Manhattan firehouse that nearly overflowed into the street and (2) the countless flyers of those missing posted in Grand Central Station. Yeah, we've seen those images on our TVs sets over and over, but those two images are forever etched in my brain. Somehow, I wanted to take the picture, but just couldn't bring myself to do it.
It's amazing that even after six months, my emotions still run so deep.
God Bless America.
Sunday, March 10, 2002
BJs FOR LUONG'S BDAY
Karena and I were lucky enough to have Nathan drive us to BJs in Brea for Luong's birthday. First off, that place is really, really far, but the time flew by because his PT Cruiser is pretty cool. Anyway, it was like a Koinonia reunion there with only a few exceptions. We initially all came very excited -- being able to talk to everyone and looking forward to some all-you-can-eat pizza and salad. But, we quickly became disenchanted because it took them over half an hour to seat us and they the service was really bad. They were slow bring out the pizzas, slow refilling our drinks, and seemed unhappy that we kept asking for them. And yet, we were still nice enough to give them each a slice of our very good mango/fruit cake from Porto's bakery in Glendale.
Luong Baby seemed pretty happy with how things turned out and I think that's all that most people cared about.
Karena and I were lucky enough to have Nathan drive us to BJs in Brea for Luong's birthday. First off, that place is really, really far, but the time flew by because his PT Cruiser is pretty cool. Anyway, it was like a Koinonia reunion there with only a few exceptions. We initially all came very excited -- being able to talk to everyone and looking forward to some all-you-can-eat pizza and salad. But, we quickly became disenchanted because it took them over half an hour to seat us and they the service was really bad. They were slow bring out the pizzas, slow refilling our drinks, and seemed unhappy that we kept asking for them. And yet, we were still nice enough to give them each a slice of our very good mango/fruit cake from Porto's bakery in Glendale.
Luong Baby seemed pretty happy with how things turned out and I think that's all that most people cared about.
Saturday, March 09, 2002
MY APARTMENT ... ONE YEAR LATER
How ironic that I celebrate my one-year anniversary of living in my apartment by ... not living in my apartment. Yup, I'm still paying rent, but because I can't get around too well, I'm staying at home and letting the dust collect at my place. Truthfully, I kind of miss the place and would love to go there just to hang out for a while ... sit on my couch, lie down on my bed there, download some music on my computer, water my plant (which is probably dying as we speak since I haven't been there in almost two weeks).
It's amazing to think that I've been there a year already because my manager is not the most honest person. And the place isn't all that nice (I opted for "cheap" over "nice" when I decided on it). But I saw potential in it and thanks to Karena's decorating skills, it turned out pretty nice. She put all these nice beach scenes in my bedroom, some fish portraits in the bathroom, and some interesting black and white posters in the living room. Some argue that it's "too girly" looking for a guy's apartment so I decided to put up my "Wall of Basketball" complete with various photos from the Lakers, Clippers, and Bruins.
My apartment one year later is definitely a place with character, style, and flair.
Well, sort of.
How ironic that I celebrate my one-year anniversary of living in my apartment by ... not living in my apartment. Yup, I'm still paying rent, but because I can't get around too well, I'm staying at home and letting the dust collect at my place. Truthfully, I kind of miss the place and would love to go there just to hang out for a while ... sit on my couch, lie down on my bed there, download some music on my computer, water my plant (which is probably dying as we speak since I haven't been there in almost two weeks).
It's amazing to think that I've been there a year already because my manager is not the most honest person. And the place isn't all that nice (I opted for "cheap" over "nice" when I decided on it). But I saw potential in it and thanks to Karena's decorating skills, it turned out pretty nice. She put all these nice beach scenes in my bedroom, some fish portraits in the bathroom, and some interesting black and white posters in the living room. Some argue that it's "too girly" looking for a guy's apartment so I decided to put up my "Wall of Basketball" complete with various photos from the Lakers, Clippers, and Bruins.
My apartment one year later is definitely a place with character, style, and flair.
Well, sort of.
Friday, March 08, 2002
MOVIE REVIEWS
As promised, here are the movies I've been watching to help pass the time along with a quick blurb about my thoughts on them:
Rat Race: B+. I thought I'd hate this movie, but it actually was pretty entertaining. It had its funny moments, but overall it's pretty "stupid-funny" humor so that can only get you as high as a B+ in my book. But the ensemble cast was good and it was a good "escape" movie for me.
Shaft: B+. I finally finished it. I liked this movie for the same reason why I like rap music -- it's tough and makes me feel tougher too. I get told all the time how I'm too soft to make it in this world and watching a guy like Shaft intimidate people and back up his big talk with action is impressive to me. Plus, I love that '70s Isaac Hayes song ("He's a complicated man ...").
Macross Movie: A-. The last time I saw that movie, I was in the 5th grade. So, it was so exciting for me to watch it again and relive the story. I have to admit that I'm still sad to see the part when Roy dies (sorry to ruin the story if you didn't know that already). But this movie always begs the question: Which girl would YOU choose: the famous singer Minmei or the bossy, yet intelligent Lisa Hayes? Luckily for me, I think I got the best of both worlds in Karena (err ... umm ... I'm not referring to the bossy part). =)
The Princess Diaries: B+. My most embarassing moment of late was when Luong Baby dropped by my house unannounced and caught me watching this movie. But let's keep this on the downlow, okay? I thought Julie Andrews was great as the way-too-proper queen and the whole movie turned out to be much better than expected.
Blade: B. Wesley Snipes has some good fight scenes in this movie, but the plot is pretty predictable. I don't know why the whole vampire genre isn't played out already (with Dracula, Buffy, Queen of the Damned, etc.), but for some reason, I still like it.
Left Behind: The Movie C-. I felt, as a Christian, that I was a little obligated to watch this movie. Plus, I loved Kirk Cameron as Mike Seaver and his real-life wife as Kate in "Growing Pains". How bad could it be? Well, as it turns out, the acting was terrible and the story not easy to follow. Plus, I was disappointed because I don't think that non-Christians would have gone to see this movie. But I guess scaring them into becoming Christians isn't the answer either. The one thing I did like about his movie is that it reminded me (1) of the urgency in which we should be evangelizing and showing people God's love and (2) it reinforced the idea that we, as Christians, should TRULY be believers and followers of Jesus Christ and not just "play church" like we are sometimes prone to do.
As promised, here are the movies I've been watching to help pass the time along with a quick blurb about my thoughts on them:
Rat Race: B+. I thought I'd hate this movie, but it actually was pretty entertaining. It had its funny moments, but overall it's pretty "stupid-funny" humor so that can only get you as high as a B+ in my book. But the ensemble cast was good and it was a good "escape" movie for me.
Shaft: B+. I finally finished it. I liked this movie for the same reason why I like rap music -- it's tough and makes me feel tougher too. I get told all the time how I'm too soft to make it in this world and watching a guy like Shaft intimidate people and back up his big talk with action is impressive to me. Plus, I love that '70s Isaac Hayes song ("He's a complicated man ...").
Macross Movie: A-. The last time I saw that movie, I was in the 5th grade. So, it was so exciting for me to watch it again and relive the story. I have to admit that I'm still sad to see the part when Roy dies (sorry to ruin the story if you didn't know that already). But this movie always begs the question: Which girl would YOU choose: the famous singer Minmei or the bossy, yet intelligent Lisa Hayes? Luckily for me, I think I got the best of both worlds in Karena (err ... umm ... I'm not referring to the bossy part). =)
The Princess Diaries: B+. My most embarassing moment of late was when Luong Baby dropped by my house unannounced and caught me watching this movie. But let's keep this on the downlow, okay? I thought Julie Andrews was great as the way-too-proper queen and the whole movie turned out to be much better than expected.
Blade: B. Wesley Snipes has some good fight scenes in this movie, but the plot is pretty predictable. I don't know why the whole vampire genre isn't played out already (with Dracula, Buffy, Queen of the Damned, etc.), but for some reason, I still like it.
Left Behind: The Movie C-. I felt, as a Christian, that I was a little obligated to watch this movie. Plus, I loved Kirk Cameron as Mike Seaver and his real-life wife as Kate in "Growing Pains". How bad could it be? Well, as it turns out, the acting was terrible and the story not easy to follow. Plus, I was disappointed because I don't think that non-Christians would have gone to see this movie. But I guess scaring them into becoming Christians isn't the answer either. The one thing I did like about his movie is that it reminded me (1) of the urgency in which we should be evangelizing and showing people God's love and (2) it reinforced the idea that we, as Christians, should TRULY be believers and followers of Jesus Christ and not just "play church" like we are sometimes prone to do.
Thursday, March 07, 2002
OVER-EATING
Since being injured, I've tried to keep my food intake down because I'm not able to exercise the way I normally would. In fact, all I do is lie around all day in front of the TV like some of those obese people I see everyday on those daytime talk shows. So, I'm really trying very hard to keep from over-eating.
But it hasn't helped when I go out to celebrate Simon's birthday at Greenfield -- the all-you-can-eat meat place in Azusa, like I did last week. (Let's just say I stuffed myself silly there. Hey, a Chinese guy has GOT to eat his money's worth!). And then, last night, I went out to celebrate Gary's birthday at Kwan's Restaurant in Montebello and we ordered way, way, way too many dumplings and noodles, and onion cakes and it ended up practically being all-you-can-eat. And again, in order to help finish the dumplings (they generally don't taste good as leftovers the next day), I over-ate again. And I know for sure that I'm going out Saturday night for dinner (possibly again for all-you-can-eat).
So, the next time you see me, I'll probably be 1000 pounds and have to be wheeled in on some gurney. I'm sure that'll do wonders for my knee!
Since being injured, I've tried to keep my food intake down because I'm not able to exercise the way I normally would. In fact, all I do is lie around all day in front of the TV like some of those obese people I see everyday on those daytime talk shows. So, I'm really trying very hard to keep from over-eating.
But it hasn't helped when I go out to celebrate Simon's birthday at Greenfield -- the all-you-can-eat meat place in Azusa, like I did last week. (Let's just say I stuffed myself silly there. Hey, a Chinese guy has GOT to eat his money's worth!). And then, last night, I went out to celebrate Gary's birthday at Kwan's Restaurant in Montebello and we ordered way, way, way too many dumplings and noodles, and onion cakes and it ended up practically being all-you-can-eat. And again, in order to help finish the dumplings (they generally don't taste good as leftovers the next day), I over-ate again. And I know for sure that I'm going out Saturday night for dinner (possibly again for all-you-can-eat).
So, the next time you see me, I'll probably be 1000 pounds and have to be wheeled in on some gurney. I'm sure that'll do wonders for my knee!
Wednesday, March 06, 2002
MRI (AKA MAY REQUIRE INCISION)
I went in for my MRI today with my dad, having just come back from Colorado late last night, having to take off work again to drive me. The place was far, but I was glad they were able to bump up my appointment from Friday to today. But as we all know, nothing about this process goes smoothly. So when I got there, I was very cautious to make sure nothing bad would happen. And then it did.
As I entered the room, a woman was blocking the huge sign that said: "No watches or wallets beyond this point." Well, I went in with both of mine and by the time the technician figured it out, it was too late. He informed me that my watch will probably slow down for a few days and all my credit cards are probably de-magnetized. Great, just great! And all the technician had to say was, "Well, now you know for next time." I was pretty upset with him after that. And then, he only made matters worse.
The guy tried to stap me in with my knee fully straight (which I can't do without SCREAMING in pain - just ask Karena). But, he just kept pushing it and pushing it as I gritted my teeth more and more. Finally, he got it more or less straight and put the latch on. I was dying.
Now, the way an MRI works is that you can't move for about 20 minutes and there's all kinds of intermittent jack-hammer noices coming from the machine. To me, it sounded more like that FatBoy Slim song, "Rockefellar Skank" (you know, "Right about now, the funk soul brother ...") All I could do was look as the timer counted down all these random times over and over: 3:23, 2:48, 3:50. All I could to pass the time was look at the numbers and think about players jersey's numbers: 23 - Michael Jordan, Mitch Richmond, Matt Barnes, Eric Karros, Scott Spezio. 33 - Kareem, Larry Bird, Shaq at LSU, Ziggy Palfy. It's dumb, it's crazy. But it worked to pass the time.
And when I was done, I had two HUGE indents in my knee from where the technician tried to keep my knee straight. One of them, about an inch long, will definitely leave a mark.
Well, now I have to wait 3-5 business days before I get the results and can schedule my surgery.
And the waiting game continues ...
I went in for my MRI today with my dad, having just come back from Colorado late last night, having to take off work again to drive me. The place was far, but I was glad they were able to bump up my appointment from Friday to today. But as we all know, nothing about this process goes smoothly. So when I got there, I was very cautious to make sure nothing bad would happen. And then it did.
As I entered the room, a woman was blocking the huge sign that said: "No watches or wallets beyond this point." Well, I went in with both of mine and by the time the technician figured it out, it was too late. He informed me that my watch will probably slow down for a few days and all my credit cards are probably de-magnetized. Great, just great! And all the technician had to say was, "Well, now you know for next time." I was pretty upset with him after that. And then, he only made matters worse.
The guy tried to stap me in with my knee fully straight (which I can't do without SCREAMING in pain - just ask Karena). But, he just kept pushing it and pushing it as I gritted my teeth more and more. Finally, he got it more or less straight and put the latch on. I was dying.
Now, the way an MRI works is that you can't move for about 20 minutes and there's all kinds of intermittent jack-hammer noices coming from the machine. To me, it sounded more like that FatBoy Slim song, "Rockefellar Skank" (you know, "Right about now, the funk soul brother ...") All I could do was look as the timer counted down all these random times over and over: 3:23, 2:48, 3:50. All I could to pass the time was look at the numbers and think about players jersey's numbers: 23 - Michael Jordan, Mitch Richmond, Matt Barnes, Eric Karros, Scott Spezio. 33 - Kareem, Larry Bird, Shaq at LSU, Ziggy Palfy. It's dumb, it's crazy. But it worked to pass the time.
And when I was done, I had two HUGE indents in my knee from where the technician tried to keep my knee straight. One of them, about an inch long, will definitely leave a mark.
Well, now I have to wait 3-5 business days before I get the results and can schedule my surgery.
And the waiting game continues ...
Tuesday, March 05, 2002
THE CASE OF THE EX
Not too long ago, Johnnie wrote about talking to your exes. I sent a reply saying I agreed with his statement that unless you can talk to them without it being weird, you may not be over them yet. And then, last Sunday, I was put to the test.
After sitting down with Karena on my right for Sunday worship, I was completely focused and ready to go. And then, it began to happen. One of my ex-girlfriends walks in and sits to my left. And then, the other ex-girlfriend walks in and sits behind me. Okay ... this is ... interesting. Suddenly, the sermon became increasingly difficult to listen to just because I was overly concerned about being in such close quarters with the three of them. Like Michael Cham sarcastically said later, "All you needed was to have you mom sitting in front of you!" Ha, ha ha.
After calming myself down, I was able to concentrate on the sermon and more importantly, able to worship God.
Case Closed.
Not too long ago, Johnnie wrote about talking to your exes. I sent a reply saying I agreed with his statement that unless you can talk to them without it being weird, you may not be over them yet. And then, last Sunday, I was put to the test.
After sitting down with Karena on my right for Sunday worship, I was completely focused and ready to go. And then, it began to happen. One of my ex-girlfriends walks in and sits to my left. And then, the other ex-girlfriend walks in and sits behind me. Okay ... this is ... interesting. Suddenly, the sermon became increasingly difficult to listen to just because I was overly concerned about being in such close quarters with the three of them. Like Michael Cham sarcastically said later, "All you needed was to have you mom sitting in front of you!" Ha, ha ha.
After calming myself down, I was able to concentrate on the sermon and more importantly, able to worship God.
Case Closed.
Monday, March 04, 2002
FRUSTRATED
I was going use this space to write about how inspired I was by the first of a 6-month long Sunday School class focusing on discipleship that should take all of our Christian walks to the next level. Or I was going to the talk about the pressures I felt while having dinner with Karena's family last night and sitting there alone with her dad talking about stocks, disability, sports, insurance, etc. And I know I haven't written anything even remotely cheery in the last week or so. Maybe I'll put up another movie review blog in a few days. But I can't write about any of those topics now.
Instead, I am FRUSTRATED!!!!! and have to talk about that. Being in health care, I've known all along how poorly managed patients are when it comes to HMOs. But now that I'm the patient, I have to say that this whole process is killing me. Just killing me.
Here are the facts:
I got injured while snowboarding last Saturday. I didn't get to see my primary physician until Tuesday (after just going to her office and sitting there until she was forced to squeeze me in). I didn't get to see the orthopedic surgeon until Friday (after again just going there until he was forced to squeeze me in). The knee brace they ordered for me wasn't ready for me to pick up until late Friday afternoon ... and it was the wrong kind. I still don't have the right one and won't until next week at the earliest. Plus, I've been waiting over a week to get an MRI to confirm what we all already know - a lateral meniscus tear, which will require surgery. But I can't get an MRI until late Friday morning. That means no surgery for another 2 weeks ... at least. Meanwhile, I won't be getting paid, won't be getting disability, and will have stacks of mounting bills to pay with no money in which to pay them.
Frustrated? You bet I am.
I was going use this space to write about how inspired I was by the first of a 6-month long Sunday School class focusing on discipleship that should take all of our Christian walks to the next level. Or I was going to the talk about the pressures I felt while having dinner with Karena's family last night and sitting there alone with her dad talking about stocks, disability, sports, insurance, etc. And I know I haven't written anything even remotely cheery in the last week or so. Maybe I'll put up another movie review blog in a few days. But I can't write about any of those topics now.
Instead, I am FRUSTRATED!!!!! and have to talk about that. Being in health care, I've known all along how poorly managed patients are when it comes to HMOs. But now that I'm the patient, I have to say that this whole process is killing me. Just killing me.
Here are the facts:
I got injured while snowboarding last Saturday. I didn't get to see my primary physician until Tuesday (after just going to her office and sitting there until she was forced to squeeze me in). I didn't get to see the orthopedic surgeon until Friday (after again just going there until he was forced to squeeze me in). The knee brace they ordered for me wasn't ready for me to pick up until late Friday afternoon ... and it was the wrong kind. I still don't have the right one and won't until next week at the earliest. Plus, I've been waiting over a week to get an MRI to confirm what we all already know - a lateral meniscus tear, which will require surgery. But I can't get an MRI until late Friday morning. That means no surgery for another 2 weeks ... at least. Meanwhile, I won't be getting paid, won't be getting disability, and will have stacks of mounting bills to pay with no money in which to pay them.
Frustrated? You bet I am.
Sunday, March 03, 2002
THE NEXT EPISODE
There's this rap song by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg that I like called "The Next Episode" because it reunites the two rappers together after they both re-invented themselves into something bigger and better.
In the same way, I think I'm moving on to my next episode. With age, I've had to take on more responsibilities and for the most part, I'm enjoying that. I'm thankful for the opportunity to further establish my independence by living in my apartment (and yet still close enough to home to not have things go too badly). I've been learning a lot about healthcare, money, insurance and disability from this whole knee injury experience. And since my parents are both out of town, I've now become the man of the house (albeit a crippled man).
Actually, having my parents both go out of town in the next episode for them too. My dad will no doubt be retiring soon and I think it's now their time to enjoy lift - travel, go out to nice restaurants, and do some cool things. They are currently there sightseeing and although they worry about me being here alone (especially in my condition), I have no qualms about being man of the house, king of the castle, lord of the ... okay, maybe that's stretching it. But I've been able to take care of business - walking around the house with my bag pack so I can carry things, mailing things, answering important business phone calls, etc. Of course, it never hurts to have help, as was the case yesterday, when my aunt, cousins, grandparents, and Karena came over to cook dinner.
So, the next episode has already begun for my family. And so far, it's all good.
There's this rap song by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg that I like called "The Next Episode" because it reunites the two rappers together after they both re-invented themselves into something bigger and better.
In the same way, I think I'm moving on to my next episode. With age, I've had to take on more responsibilities and for the most part, I'm enjoying that. I'm thankful for the opportunity to further establish my independence by living in my apartment (and yet still close enough to home to not have things go too badly). I've been learning a lot about healthcare, money, insurance and disability from this whole knee injury experience. And since my parents are both out of town, I've now become the man of the house (albeit a crippled man).
Actually, having my parents both go out of town in the next episode for them too. My dad will no doubt be retiring soon and I think it's now their time to enjoy lift - travel, go out to nice restaurants, and do some cool things. They are currently there sightseeing and although they worry about me being here alone (especially in my condition), I have no qualms about being man of the house, king of the castle, lord of the ... okay, maybe that's stretching it. But I've been able to take care of business - walking around the house with my bag pack so I can carry things, mailing things, answering important business phone calls, etc. Of course, it never hurts to have help, as was the case yesterday, when my aunt, cousins, grandparents, and Karena came over to cook dinner.
So, the next episode has already begun for my family. And so far, it's all good.
Saturday, March 02, 2002
SOME QUICK RANDOM THOUGHTS
1. There is absolutely NO good place to put a pair of crutches! Everywhere I go, I have to put those darn things somewhere. And yet, I find people still tripping over them. I find them sliding off whatever I leaned them on so they go crashing to the floor. Basically, I am starting to find them a nuisance. And don't even get me started on trying to get them in and out of a car. Man, those suckers are waaaaaaay too long to put in the back seat.
2. For a guy who can't drive and is not very mobile, I've managed to still keep a pretty busy social calendar (and thank goodness too because I'm was going stir crazy at home). I spent Wednesday night at a Brazilian place called Greenfield, also known to most guys as that "all-you-can-eat meat place," for Simon's birthday. On Friday, I went to church and helped lead worship in Troopers and helped sing two of my favorite songs ["You Are Holy" (I will sing too and worship ...) & "Lord, I Give You My Heart"] in Koinonia after Melanie's talk. I had to have people lug my guitar around for me, though. And later today, I'm going the L.A. Kings game at the Staples Center. Karena's patient's company owns a box there so we'll be watching the game in style.
3. After Melanie's talk last night, we broke up into guy and girl groups and talked about serious dating and marriage. Basically, Pastor Clive and Dewey discussed the difficulties and struggles they've seen or experienced and wanted to reiterate to us guys that we have to be fully prepared and ready. They wanted to make sure we laid a good and solid foundation while dating before embarking on something as big as marriage. I don't know about the other guys, but that talk freaked me out!!! At the end, I said sarcastically, "Yeah, good luck Jason!" But the tables quickly turned when Michael followed that up with, "What are you talking about? Good luck to YOU!"
1. There is absolutely NO good place to put a pair of crutches! Everywhere I go, I have to put those darn things somewhere. And yet, I find people still tripping over them. I find them sliding off whatever I leaned them on so they go crashing to the floor. Basically, I am starting to find them a nuisance. And don't even get me started on trying to get them in and out of a car. Man, those suckers are waaaaaaay too long to put in the back seat.
2. For a guy who can't drive and is not very mobile, I've managed to still keep a pretty busy social calendar (and thank goodness too because I'm was going stir crazy at home). I spent Wednesday night at a Brazilian place called Greenfield, also known to most guys as that "all-you-can-eat meat place," for Simon's birthday. On Friday, I went to church and helped lead worship in Troopers and helped sing two of my favorite songs ["You Are Holy" (I will sing too and worship ...) & "Lord, I Give You My Heart"] in Koinonia after Melanie's talk. I had to have people lug my guitar around for me, though. And later today, I'm going the L.A. Kings game at the Staples Center. Karena's patient's company owns a box there so we'll be watching the game in style.
3. After Melanie's talk last night, we broke up into guy and girl groups and talked about serious dating and marriage. Basically, Pastor Clive and Dewey discussed the difficulties and struggles they've seen or experienced and wanted to reiterate to us guys that we have to be fully prepared and ready. They wanted to make sure we laid a good and solid foundation while dating before embarking on something as big as marriage. I don't know about the other guys, but that talk freaked me out!!! At the end, I said sarcastically, "Yeah, good luck Jason!" But the tables quickly turned when Michael followed that up with, "What are you talking about? Good luck to YOU!"
Friday, March 01, 2002
THE FLIP SIDE
As a health care clinician, I have to admit that I have been impatient and sometimes not very friendly when it comes to dealing with patients. I have found myself saying things in my head like, "Don't they know I'm very busy?", "Don't they understand that I'm on a tight schedule?", "Why don't they lighten up? I'm only trying to help."
Of course, now that I'm on the flip side, I find myself thinking, "What is wrong with this doctor?", "Why isn't she willing to take a little time to help me?", "Isn't she supposed to advocate on my behalf?"
Being a patient is tough stuff - all the waiting, all the miscommunication, etc. But now that I've been on the flip side, I'm sure I will be a better clinician. And my patients will benefit from this experience as well.
As a health care clinician, I have to admit that I have been impatient and sometimes not very friendly when it comes to dealing with patients. I have found myself saying things in my head like, "Don't they know I'm very busy?", "Don't they understand that I'm on a tight schedule?", "Why don't they lighten up? I'm only trying to help."
Of course, now that I'm on the flip side, I find myself thinking, "What is wrong with this doctor?", "Why isn't she willing to take a little time to help me?", "Isn't she supposed to advocate on my behalf?"
Being a patient is tough stuff - all the waiting, all the miscommunication, etc. But now that I've been on the flip side, I'm sure I will be a better clinician. And my patients will benefit from this experience as well.
PLAYING THE PATIENT
As a health care clinician, I have to admit that I have been impatient and sometimes not very friendly at times. I have found myself saying things in my head like, "Don't they know I'm very busy?", "Don't they understand
As a health care clinician, I have to admit that I have been impatient and sometimes not very friendly at times. I have found myself saying things in my head like, "Don't they know I'm very busy?", "Don't they understand
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