Friday, February 28, 2003
GRANDMOTHER D/C'D
For those of you who don't know "hospital talk," that means my grandmother has been discharged from the hospital. She has finally left Whittier Presbyterian for the comforts of home.
But this does not mean that she is fully recoverd. No, quite the contrary. She will require much more rehabilitation, especially on her left side and with her speech. We have hired a full time caregiver to be with her, but I am still concerned about my grandmother's safety because the caregiver is a little bit older than I would have liked. So, please continue to keep her in prayer.
But overall, we are all VERY GLAD to have my grandmother home again.
For those of you who don't know "hospital talk," that means my grandmother has been discharged from the hospital. She has finally left Whittier Presbyterian for the comforts of home.
But this does not mean that she is fully recoverd. No, quite the contrary. She will require much more rehabilitation, especially on her left side and with her speech. We have hired a full time caregiver to be with her, but I am still concerned about my grandmother's safety because the caregiver is a little bit older than I would have liked. So, please continue to keep her in prayer.
But overall, we are all VERY GLAD to have my grandmother home again.
WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
Picture this:
You have lived in your apartment for two years and are scheduled to move out in one month. But during the course of your time there, you have parked next to your manager. And let's just say she has a hard time keeping her car between the lines. And in the last few days, it's been especially bad. So bad that you end having to park to one side and getting the other car mad at you.
What would you do? Would you say something? Or would you just let it go since you'll only have to endure it for one more month?
Picture this:
You have lived in your apartment for two years and are scheduled to move out in one month. But during the course of your time there, you have parked next to your manager. And let's just say she has a hard time keeping her car between the lines. And in the last few days, it's been especially bad. So bad that you end having to park to one side and getting the other car mad at you.
What would you do? Would you say something? Or would you just let it go since you'll only have to endure it for one more month?
Wednesday, February 26, 2003
SIESTA TIME
After much debate, I've decided that I'm in favor of siesta time. Yeah, that means we would get out a bit later, but I think just having that time after lunch to snooze would do me some good. I always get very sleep after eating my lunch and can barely keep my eyes open. In fact, they get all watery because I yawn every 5 seconds. Even just having a half hour power nap would really help me.
Besides, with the way things are now, you really, really, really don't want to be my 1:00 patient.
After much debate, I've decided that I'm in favor of siesta time. Yeah, that means we would get out a bit later, but I think just having that time after lunch to snooze would do me some good. I always get very sleep after eating my lunch and can barely keep my eyes open. In fact, they get all watery because I yawn every 5 seconds. Even just having a half hour power nap would really help me.
Besides, with the way things are now, you really, really, really don't want to be my 1:00 patient.
Tuesday, February 25, 2003
THE BEAUTIFICATION OF MONTEBELLO
I'm off today so I'm back in Montebello for the day. Despite moving out to my West L.A. apartment two years ago and with plans to move to Glendale next month, I still see Montebello as home.
But my home has taken quite a beating from friends over the years. People make fun of everything from the Montebello Town Center to Beverly Bowl to the type of people who live in the city to the quality of its high schools. And sure, maybe some of the negative stuff is true. But one thing nobody will be able to make fun of any more is ... our street signs.
Yup, as part of the project to beautify Montebello, they have begun replacing all the old small blue signs that tell you what street you're on. Now, they are much bigger, fancier signs with the words: City of Montebello on top in a very fancy hand-written-looking font. And on the side is a lovely red rose.
So, come into our city, drive around, and get mesmerized by the beauty of this place!
Montebello: The Avenue to the Future.
I'm off today so I'm back in Montebello for the day. Despite moving out to my West L.A. apartment two years ago and with plans to move to Glendale next month, I still see Montebello as home.
But my home has taken quite a beating from friends over the years. People make fun of everything from the Montebello Town Center to Beverly Bowl to the type of people who live in the city to the quality of its high schools. And sure, maybe some of the negative stuff is true. But one thing nobody will be able to make fun of any more is ... our street signs.
Yup, as part of the project to beautify Montebello, they have begun replacing all the old small blue signs that tell you what street you're on. Now, they are much bigger, fancier signs with the words: City of Montebello on top in a very fancy hand-written-looking font. And on the side is a lovely red rose.
So, come into our city, drive around, and get mesmerized by the beauty of this place!
Montebello: The Avenue to the Future.
Monday, February 24, 2003
SO MUCH, SO LITTLE
Right now in my life, I have to say this:
There is so much going on, and so little brain space to remember it all.
Right now in my life, I have to say this:
There is so much going on, and so little brain space to remember it all.
Sunday, February 23, 2003
DOING YOUR TAXES
When I was a kid, I used to look at my dad and be totally jealous. Why? After dinner, I had no choice but to go upstairs and do my homework. I couldn't watch TV, I couldn't go shoot some hoops, I couldn't even just sit and daydream (although I did end up doing a lot of that anyway!). But my dad? He would just plant himself in front of the TV all night, only moving when he had to change the channel. (Aside: He used to use his foot to change the channel after our remote broke. That way, he really didn't have to move much at all. Gross, but true. So the next time you're at my house and you want to change the channel, it's probably best to put gloves on before you touch the TV buttons.)
But anyway, getting back to what I was saying. Now that I'm older, I'm starting to realize he had to do a lot of things like concern himself with his family's safety, the financial situation, paying bills, doing dishes and other housework, etc. And one thing I never he had to do when I was young was having to do taxes every year. Even though it's much easier now with Turbo Tax, it's still the biggest pain in the you-know-what! There is nothing less enjoyable than doing taxes. I just started yesterday and proceeded to fall asleep for almost three hours. But its got to get done, I guess. Still, I think the IRS should let me slide this year since I'm getting married in April.
But the point is, I'm no longer envious of my dad. No, I take that back. I guess I do wish I could change channels with my foot as well as he can!
When I was a kid, I used to look at my dad and be totally jealous. Why? After dinner, I had no choice but to go upstairs and do my homework. I couldn't watch TV, I couldn't go shoot some hoops, I couldn't even just sit and daydream (although I did end up doing a lot of that anyway!). But my dad? He would just plant himself in front of the TV all night, only moving when he had to change the channel. (Aside: He used to use his foot to change the channel after our remote broke. That way, he really didn't have to move much at all. Gross, but true. So the next time you're at my house and you want to change the channel, it's probably best to put gloves on before you touch the TV buttons.)
But anyway, getting back to what I was saying. Now that I'm older, I'm starting to realize he had to do a lot of things like concern himself with his family's safety, the financial situation, paying bills, doing dishes and other housework, etc. And one thing I never he had to do when I was young was having to do taxes every year. Even though it's much easier now with Turbo Tax, it's still the biggest pain in the you-know-what! There is nothing less enjoyable than doing taxes. I just started yesterday and proceeded to fall asleep for almost three hours. But its got to get done, I guess. Still, I think the IRS should let me slide this year since I'm getting married in April.
But the point is, I'm no longer envious of my dad. No, I take that back. I guess I do wish I could change channels with my foot as well as he can!
Saturday, February 22, 2003
NINE WEEKS AWAY/HANGING WITH THE GROOMSMEN
Well, it is official. The wedding is nine Saturdays away. That has left me very excited to get married, but also a little anxious about having enough time to plan everything. As it is, we are both feeling a little stressed about that because of other things going on in our lives (Karena's OCS exam, my grandmother being in the hospital, etc.).
And one thing that I'm still having a hard time understanding is the large number of people who ask me on a daily basis whether we are living together now. I guess that is a very common occurance nowadays, but I just can't believe it! I literally get asked that question about two-four times a day. And I always answer as if the thought never ever crossed our minds. I guess this is the world we now live in, but that's so sad.
In other wedding news, I have the privilege of having breakfast with my groomsmen this morning (minus my best man and brother Raymond because he's up north). Afterwards, we're going to get fitted for our tuxes (I know it may not be the best idea since our stomachs will be bulging). It should be a short, but fun time to hang out with the guys that will be up there standing with me in nine weeks. Can you dig it?
Well, it is official. The wedding is nine Saturdays away. That has left me very excited to get married, but also a little anxious about having enough time to plan everything. As it is, we are both feeling a little stressed about that because of other things going on in our lives (Karena's OCS exam, my grandmother being in the hospital, etc.).
And one thing that I'm still having a hard time understanding is the large number of people who ask me on a daily basis whether we are living together now. I guess that is a very common occurance nowadays, but I just can't believe it! I literally get asked that question about two-four times a day. And I always answer as if the thought never ever crossed our minds. I guess this is the world we now live in, but that's so sad.
In other wedding news, I have the privilege of having breakfast with my groomsmen this morning (minus my best man and brother Raymond because he's up north). Afterwards, we're going to get fitted for our tuxes (I know it may not be the best idea since our stomachs will be bulging). It should be a short, but fun time to hang out with the guys that will be up there standing with me in nine weeks. Can you dig it?
Friday, February 21, 2003
THE GREAT EQUALIZER
For some reason or another, I've been thinking about what "The Great Equalizer" is in life. That is, what makes all of us humans simply humans. Not doctors, not lawyers, not homeless people. Just people.
Most people seem to think that death is the "great equalizer" because nobody can escape it. No matter who you are, we are all going to die. Others think that a pair of pants are the "great equalizer" because everybody has to put them on one leg at a time.
But for me, I think the "great equalizer" is the bathroom. Just this week, I had an occasion in the hospital where I went into the bathroom and I ran into the spouse of one of my patients. And soon after, her surgeon walked in. As we stood there, we were not a surgeon, a physical therapist, and a husband.
Instead, we were just three guys who really had to pee. See what I mean, the "great equalizer!"
For some reason or another, I've been thinking about what "The Great Equalizer" is in life. That is, what makes all of us humans simply humans. Not doctors, not lawyers, not homeless people. Just people.
Most people seem to think that death is the "great equalizer" because nobody can escape it. No matter who you are, we are all going to die. Others think that a pair of pants are the "great equalizer" because everybody has to put them on one leg at a time.
But for me, I think the "great equalizer" is the bathroom. Just this week, I had an occasion in the hospital where I went into the bathroom and I ran into the spouse of one of my patients. And soon after, her surgeon walked in. As we stood there, we were not a surgeon, a physical therapist, and a husband.
Instead, we were just three guys who really had to pee. See what I mean, the "great equalizer!"
Thursday, February 20, 2003
HOT GIRL CHOOSES SAPPY GUY
I know most of you aren't hip as to what's going on on "The Bachelorette" (read: Jason), but I am pleased to tell you that Trista ended up going against what she saw superficially in Charlie, and chose the sappy Ryan to be her husband.
Even before the show had been two weeks old, rumors were flying that Trista had been seen with Charlie in the car, on the beach, and that she was even pregnant with his baby! But apparently, all the rumors were false and she opted for the guy who truly loved her and the guy who wrote her many poems.
This is a victory for sappy guys everywhere!
Pseudo-celebrity sighting: M.C. Hammer
I know most of you aren't hip as to what's going on on "The Bachelorette" (read: Jason), but I am pleased to tell you that Trista ended up going against what she saw superficially in Charlie, and chose the sappy Ryan to be her husband.
Even before the show had been two weeks old, rumors were flying that Trista had been seen with Charlie in the car, on the beach, and that she was even pregnant with his baby! But apparently, all the rumors were false and she opted for the guy who truly loved her and the guy who wrote her many poems.
This is a victory for sappy guys everywhere!
Pseudo-celebrity sighting: M.C. Hammer
Wednesday, February 19, 2003
A NOT-SO-FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD FIGHT
My neighbor, whose door faces mine, is a pretty nice guy, in general. He is very nice to me and also says hello with a big smile. I don't really know him, but he seems decent.
Well, decent, that is, until it comes to his girlfriend. They periodically have fights and arguments where he proceeds to throw her out of his place. And there is yelling and explitives thrown everywhere. And the yelling is so loud that I can hear all the screaming, even with my TV or stereo on.
Last night, they were at it again. And not only did he proceed to throw her out, but it sounded like all this glass was breaking and doors were slamming. And she came back to get her dog, which ended up being a huge mess that lasted another ten minutes.
So, the funniest part was that Karena and I turned out the lights so we could look out the peep hole and listen to their conversation. We had a great time ... at their expense.
Too bad all this happened during "24."
My neighbor, whose door faces mine, is a pretty nice guy, in general. He is very nice to me and also says hello with a big smile. I don't really know him, but he seems decent.
Well, decent, that is, until it comes to his girlfriend. They periodically have fights and arguments where he proceeds to throw her out of his place. And there is yelling and explitives thrown everywhere. And the yelling is so loud that I can hear all the screaming, even with my TV or stereo on.
Last night, they were at it again. And not only did he proceed to throw her out, but it sounded like all this glass was breaking and doors were slamming. And she came back to get her dog, which ended up being a huge mess that lasted another ten minutes.
So, the funniest part was that Karena and I turned out the lights so we could look out the peep hole and listen to their conversation. We had a great time ... at their expense.
Too bad all this happened during "24."
Tuesday, February 18, 2003
SLEEPING
Last night, the weirdest thing happened. It was about 9:15 and I was reading the newspaper when all of a sudden, I could barely keep my eyes open. The next thing I knew, I was totally asleep.
And to make matters worse, I even hit the snooze button one extra time this morning. In total, I ended up getting about 9 hours of sleep. I haven't done that since probably the 4th grade.
The moral of this story: I'm old.
Last night, the weirdest thing happened. It was about 9:15 and I was reading the newspaper when all of a sudden, I could barely keep my eyes open. The next thing I knew, I was totally asleep.
And to make matters worse, I even hit the snooze button one extra time this morning. In total, I ended up getting about 9 hours of sleep. I haven't done that since probably the 4th grade.
The moral of this story: I'm old.
Monday, February 17, 2003
A FAMILY WEEKEND
I would have to call this past weekend a "family weekend" because of all the family things I did. But it didn't only include that. Here's a quick recap:
I was blessed to be able to lead Koinonia and Delta in worship on Friday night. Trude and I only met one hour before to practice and things went very smoothly, amazingly enough. And I guess I know what it feels like to be a musician and "give it all you've got" on stage or to be an athlete and "leave everything on the court" because I was so exhausted afterwards. I felt like I had given all of myself to worshipping God that I was pretty drained afterward.
Sandra, her fiance Gabe, his parents, and my cousin Allison all came down from Northern California. They went to check out the place where they'll get married in May (in Calabasas) while Allison and I went to the hospital to visit my grandmother. She's in acute rehab now ( a good sign) but has major left neglect (meaning she neglects her looking to the left, using her left arm, recognizing her left side, etc.). Anyway, I was there almost all day but was glad to be able to translate for her during an OT session where she did very well. I was proud! But there's still a very, very, very long way for her to go.
After church on Sunday, I tried to meet up with my family and Gabe's family for dim sum, but I opted instead to help Nathan out with his Sunday school class. That toddler's class was the same class I taught for two years straight ... but that was a long time ago. I was glad to see that Nathan had good command of the class. I also got a glimpse of what kind of father I would someday be. I found myself easily entertained by the kids and had a good time playing with them. But I also realized I became stern when they disobeyed and ran around when they weren't supposed to. But for some reason, they didn't give me the respect they gave Nathan or Kelley, who was there too. I guess I still have a lot to work on before I become a parent.
Finally, I went with Karena and her mom to a Robinson's-May clearance store in Panorama City. We ended getting some really good deals on a mattress, a coffee table, and an end table. Karena's mom always manages to find the best deals on furniture (she helped get me my current sofa and love seat in my apartment for dirt cheap!). Then, I rushed back home to have dinner with my cousin Jonathan, but he had to leave as soon as I got there. Sometimes I try to be in two places at once, but it just doesn't work out. That made me bummed.
I would have to call this past weekend a "family weekend" because of all the family things I did. But it didn't only include that. Here's a quick recap:
I was blessed to be able to lead Koinonia and Delta in worship on Friday night. Trude and I only met one hour before to practice and things went very smoothly, amazingly enough. And I guess I know what it feels like to be a musician and "give it all you've got" on stage or to be an athlete and "leave everything on the court" because I was so exhausted afterwards. I felt like I had given all of myself to worshipping God that I was pretty drained afterward.
Sandra, her fiance Gabe, his parents, and my cousin Allison all came down from Northern California. They went to check out the place where they'll get married in May (in Calabasas) while Allison and I went to the hospital to visit my grandmother. She's in acute rehab now ( a good sign) but has major left neglect (meaning she neglects her looking to the left, using her left arm, recognizing her left side, etc.). Anyway, I was there almost all day but was glad to be able to translate for her during an OT session where she did very well. I was proud! But there's still a very, very, very long way for her to go.
After church on Sunday, I tried to meet up with my family and Gabe's family for dim sum, but I opted instead to help Nathan out with his Sunday school class. That toddler's class was the same class I taught for two years straight ... but that was a long time ago. I was glad to see that Nathan had good command of the class. I also got a glimpse of what kind of father I would someday be. I found myself easily entertained by the kids and had a good time playing with them. But I also realized I became stern when they disobeyed and ran around when they weren't supposed to. But for some reason, they didn't give me the respect they gave Nathan or Kelley, who was there too. I guess I still have a lot to work on before I become a parent.
Finally, I went with Karena and her mom to a Robinson's-May clearance store in Panorama City. We ended getting some really good deals on a mattress, a coffee table, and an end table. Karena's mom always manages to find the best deals on furniture (she helped get me my current sofa and love seat in my apartment for dirt cheap!). Then, I rushed back home to have dinner with my cousin Jonathan, but he had to leave as soon as I got there. Sometimes I try to be in two places at once, but it just doesn't work out. That made me bummed.
Sunday, February 16, 2003
THE END OF MY CHILDHOOD
A small part of me looks at April 26, 2003 as a day in which I will close the books on my extended childhood and begin a totally new chapter in my life. But seeing something else made me realize that that part of my life has already ended.
I was driving around Rosemead to get back onto the 10 freeway (why else would anybody be driving around Rosemead, anyway? No offense, Luong Baby), when I froze up. I couldn't believe. The Toys 'R Us store that I loved as a kid has closed down. The big Geoffrey Giraffe that overlooked the freeway was gone. Only a sad silhouette of his former self was left. The doors were bolted shut. There was no life there, it was just an empty abandoned building.
How could this be? That place was like heaven to me as a kid. I longed to go there any chance I got. My favorite times were during early December because my uncle would also drive me, Raymond, and Sandra there so we could pick out our favorite toys to be our Christmas gifts. To me, that was childhood.
I guess I'm not so naive and innocent anymore.
A small part of me looks at April 26, 2003 as a day in which I will close the books on my extended childhood and begin a totally new chapter in my life. But seeing something else made me realize that that part of my life has already ended.
I was driving around Rosemead to get back onto the 10 freeway (why else would anybody be driving around Rosemead, anyway? No offense, Luong Baby), when I froze up. I couldn't believe. The Toys 'R Us store that I loved as a kid has closed down. The big Geoffrey Giraffe that overlooked the freeway was gone. Only a sad silhouette of his former self was left. The doors were bolted shut. There was no life there, it was just an empty abandoned building.
How could this be? That place was like heaven to me as a kid. I longed to go there any chance I got. My favorite times were during early December because my uncle would also drive me, Raymond, and Sandra there so we could pick out our favorite toys to be our Christmas gifts. To me, that was childhood.
I guess I'm not so naive and innocent anymore.
Saturday, February 15, 2003
STILL WORKING ON THE ROMANCE
So like I said in the previous entry, I did not end up being very romantic for Valentine's Day this year. In fact, I probably did the worst thing a guy could do in buying a dozen roses from a supermarket. The problem is that I was going to buy them from the Farmer's Market to get the freshest and nicest flowers, but I was afraid they'd get wilted between then adn the time I went to Karena's. But anyway, at least it makes for a funny blog (hopefully).
So, there I was, standing in line at the supermarket feeling pretty stupid because I was holding these roses. All the people in front of me had legitimate groceries (probably to cook their sweetheart some totally romantic dinner, no doubt). And I was standing there with roses. Now granted, they were the nicest of the bunch, but I still felt disappointed in myself. But the funniest thing is that I turned around to see the line behind me. And there were about five or six guys standing behind me all with flowers in their hands. But the catch was they were all nerdy, computer-geeky looking (sorry for the stereotype). That made me laugh, but feel a little worse too. And one of the guys only splurged to buy the $4.99 arrangement. I mean, come on! If you're going to buy flowers from a grocery store for your honey, at least buy the roses! I'm definitely no fan of a commerical holiday that forces guys to buy stuff, but $4.99? What a joke!
So like I said in the previous entry, I did not end up being very romantic for Valentine's Day this year. In fact, I probably did the worst thing a guy could do in buying a dozen roses from a supermarket. The problem is that I was going to buy them from the Farmer's Market to get the freshest and nicest flowers, but I was afraid they'd get wilted between then adn the time I went to Karena's. But anyway, at least it makes for a funny blog (hopefully).
So, there I was, standing in line at the supermarket feeling pretty stupid because I was holding these roses. All the people in front of me had legitimate groceries (probably to cook their sweetheart some totally romantic dinner, no doubt). And I was standing there with roses. Now granted, they were the nicest of the bunch, but I still felt disappointed in myself. But the funniest thing is that I turned around to see the line behind me. And there were about five or six guys standing behind me all with flowers in their hands. But the catch was they were all nerdy, computer-geeky looking (sorry for the stereotype). That made me laugh, but feel a little worse too. And one of the guys only splurged to buy the $4.99 arrangement. I mean, come on! If you're going to buy flowers from a grocery store for your honey, at least buy the roses! I'm definitely no fan of a commerical holiday that forces guys to buy stuff, but $4.99? What a joke!
LOVE SONG
Today is Valentine's Day. I ended up being not-so-romantic (more on that tomorrow). But what is interesting about this year was that I ended up focusing on God's love -- a love that does not quit, a love that does not end, a love that goes beyond all understanding. Here are the lyrics to a song by Third Day called "Love Song" that explain exactly what I'm talking about:
Love Song
I've heard it said
That a man would climb a mountain
Just to be with the one he loves
How many times has he broken that promise
It has never been done.
I've never climbed the highest mountain, but I walked the hill of Calvary
Just to be with you, I'd do anything
There's no price I would not pay.
Just to be with you, I'd give anything,
I would give My life away.
I've heard it said that a man would swim the ocean
Just to be with the one he loves.
But all those dreams are an empty emotion
It can never be done.
I've never swam the deepest ocean,
But I walked upon the raging sea.
I know that you don't understand
The fullness of My love
How I died upon the cross for your sins
And I know that you don't realize
How much that I give you
But I promise, I would do it all again.
Just to be with you, I've done everything
There's no price I did not pay
Just to be with you, I gave everything,
Yes, I gave My life away.
Just to be with you.
Just to be with you.
Today is Valentine's Day. I ended up being not-so-romantic (more on that tomorrow). But what is interesting about this year was that I ended up focusing on God's love -- a love that does not quit, a love that does not end, a love that goes beyond all understanding. Here are the lyrics to a song by Third Day called "Love Song" that explain exactly what I'm talking about:
Love Song
I've heard it said
That a man would climb a mountain
Just to be with the one he loves
How many times has he broken that promise
It has never been done.
I've never climbed the highest mountain, but I walked the hill of Calvary
Just to be with you, I'd do anything
There's no price I would not pay.
Just to be with you, I'd give anything,
I would give My life away.
I've heard it said that a man would swim the ocean
Just to be with the one he loves.
But all those dreams are an empty emotion
It can never be done.
I've never swam the deepest ocean,
But I walked upon the raging sea.
I know that you don't understand
The fullness of My love
How I died upon the cross for your sins
And I know that you don't realize
How much that I give you
But I promise, I would do it all again.
Just to be with you, I've done everything
There's no price I did not pay
Just to be with you, I gave everything,
Yes, I gave My life away.
Just to be with you.
Just to be with you.
Thursday, February 13, 2003
SINGING IN THE RAIN
The rain has been coming down pretty hard in Southern California the last couple of days. But here is one thing I noticed about myself. I am not a fan of the umbrella. I mean, I keep one in my car and yet I still haven't been using it the last few days. Sure, I'd love to share one with Karena. And I'd definitely use one if I was wearing nice clothes. But usually, I just end up walking around in the rain with no worries or concerns about getting wet or sick. Why?
I think it goes back to high school days when everyone (including myself) was overly concerned about being or at least looking cool. There was this one guy that I thought was pretty cool and I wished I could be more like him. Anyway, one day it was pouring rain. And I do mean pouring. Anyway, everyone was running to get out of the rain or using their umbrellas. But there was thick guy, just picking up his bag, throwing it over his shoulder and walking like nothing. He didn't blink. He didn't flinch. He didn't even try to cover his head. Instead, he just walked as if it were a bright sunny day. I thought, "Wow, that is so cool."
And even though I couldn't care less about looking cool anymore, for some reason, that image still sticks with me. And maybe that's why I don't use an umbrella.
Of course, when I do it, I end up running, blinking, and flinching!
The rain has been coming down pretty hard in Southern California the last couple of days. But here is one thing I noticed about myself. I am not a fan of the umbrella. I mean, I keep one in my car and yet I still haven't been using it the last few days. Sure, I'd love to share one with Karena. And I'd definitely use one if I was wearing nice clothes. But usually, I just end up walking around in the rain with no worries or concerns about getting wet or sick. Why?
I think it goes back to high school days when everyone (including myself) was overly concerned about being or at least looking cool. There was this one guy that I thought was pretty cool and I wished I could be more like him. Anyway, one day it was pouring rain. And I do mean pouring. Anyway, everyone was running to get out of the rain or using their umbrellas. But there was thick guy, just picking up his bag, throwing it over his shoulder and walking like nothing. He didn't blink. He didn't flinch. He didn't even try to cover his head. Instead, he just walked as if it were a bright sunny day. I thought, "Wow, that is so cool."
And even though I couldn't care less about looking cool anymore, for some reason, that image still sticks with me. And maybe that's why I don't use an umbrella.
Of course, when I do it, I end up running, blinking, and flinching!
Wednesday, February 12, 2003
A PACKED TUESDAY
Figuring I needed to get a copy of our wedding invitations to Downey sometime this week and that I wanted to visit my grandmother, I tried to get off of work early. Of course, we were slammed at work and my boss wasn't able to make it happen for me. But luckily, the scheduled worked out so that I could leave an hour early. So, there I was, sitting on the wet, rainy freeway for almost two hours before I made it to Whittier Presbyterian to see her. My uncle said she was doing better today. The good news is that they decided to not feed her through a tube in her stomach and instead opted for the less invasive nose tube. (Trust me, it may sound worse, but it's much better). Anyway, I stayed there for a while and got to watch the movie "Mr. Deeds" with Adam Sandler. Pretty cheesy and not nearly as good as "The Waterboy" or "Happy Gilmore" but still entertaining.
Afterward, I quickly dropped by home to pick up some stuff before heading to Sam Woo to buy B.B.Q. Pork for our Red, White, and Pink Valentine's potluck at work on Thurs. By the way, how girly does that sound? Anyway, while I was there, I realized that my cantonese sucks. I shouldn't even try. The guy at the counter just looked at me with a bewildered look and said, "What?" over and and over until I said it in english. How embarassing!
Afterward, Karena and I got to look at some potential apartments that we might move into after we're married. I think I've pretty much decided that the housing market has overtaken us and it would not be good to get a house at this time. Am I bummed abou that? Bigtime. But I have to make financially-minded decisions that make sense over things that I want. Apparently, that's what grown ups do.
Figuring I needed to get a copy of our wedding invitations to Downey sometime this week and that I wanted to visit my grandmother, I tried to get off of work early. Of course, we were slammed at work and my boss wasn't able to make it happen for me. But luckily, the scheduled worked out so that I could leave an hour early. So, there I was, sitting on the wet, rainy freeway for almost two hours before I made it to Whittier Presbyterian to see her. My uncle said she was doing better today. The good news is that they decided to not feed her through a tube in her stomach and instead opted for the less invasive nose tube. (Trust me, it may sound worse, but it's much better). Anyway, I stayed there for a while and got to watch the movie "Mr. Deeds" with Adam Sandler. Pretty cheesy and not nearly as good as "The Waterboy" or "Happy Gilmore" but still entertaining.
Afterward, I quickly dropped by home to pick up some stuff before heading to Sam Woo to buy B.B.Q. Pork for our Red, White, and Pink Valentine's potluck at work on Thurs. By the way, how girly does that sound? Anyway, while I was there, I realized that my cantonese sucks. I shouldn't even try. The guy at the counter just looked at me with a bewildered look and said, "What?" over and and over until I said it in english. How embarassing!
Afterward, Karena and I got to look at some potential apartments that we might move into after we're married. I think I've pretty much decided that the housing market has overtaken us and it would not be good to get a house at this time. Am I bummed abou that? Bigtime. But I have to make financially-minded decisions that make sense over things that I want. Apparently, that's what grown ups do.
Monday, February 10, 2003
THE NISSAN DEALER
While driving last Friday, I was shocked and disappointed to find that my "Service Engine Soon" light came on. So, after going to the hospital on Saturday, I headed off to my mechanic to have him look at it. I could have (and probably should have) gone directly to the Nissan Dealer since my car is still under warranty, but I wanted to avoid the crowd and in general, I'm always afraid they'll over-charge or mistreat you. Well, what happened was that my mechanic (after three hours) said I have to take it to the Dealer. So, I drove all the way to Puente Hills to have them service my car. That way, if they needed to keep the car for longer, I could go to my aunt's an borrow one of her cars.
Well, they said it would probably take two hours to figure out the problem and they suggested I wait and bring the car back some other time to get it fixed. So, while waiting, I went walking down the street into the Curcuit City, Best Buy, Ikea, and some T-shirt shop where I bought some socks and a T-shirt for dirty cheap. Anyway, my mom called me and said she'd just come pick me up so I could leave my car there until all the repairs were done. But after she drove all the way out there, the guys at the dealership said they were almost finished with the whole thing. I felt bad because my mom was already tired (from staying at the hospital overnight) and yet she still had to drive out all that way for basically nothing.
And the worst (or best, depending on your perspective) part of it is that there was no trouble with my engine. My car's computer just needed to be re-calibrated.
I guess the one good thing to come out of this whole process is that I'm no longer afraid to go to the dealer anymore to get my car serviced.
While driving last Friday, I was shocked and disappointed to find that my "Service Engine Soon" light came on. So, after going to the hospital on Saturday, I headed off to my mechanic to have him look at it. I could have (and probably should have) gone directly to the Nissan Dealer since my car is still under warranty, but I wanted to avoid the crowd and in general, I'm always afraid they'll over-charge or mistreat you. Well, what happened was that my mechanic (after three hours) said I have to take it to the Dealer. So, I drove all the way to Puente Hills to have them service my car. That way, if they needed to keep the car for longer, I could go to my aunt's an borrow one of her cars.
Well, they said it would probably take two hours to figure out the problem and they suggested I wait and bring the car back some other time to get it fixed. So, while waiting, I went walking down the street into the Curcuit City, Best Buy, Ikea, and some T-shirt shop where I bought some socks and a T-shirt for dirty cheap. Anyway, my mom called me and said she'd just come pick me up so I could leave my car there until all the repairs were done. But after she drove all the way out there, the guys at the dealership said they were almost finished with the whole thing. I felt bad because my mom was already tired (from staying at the hospital overnight) and yet she still had to drive out all that way for basically nothing.
And the worst (or best, depending on your perspective) part of it is that there was no trouble with my engine. My car's computer just needed to be re-calibrated.
I guess the one good thing to come out of this whole process is that I'm no longer afraid to go to the dealer anymore to get my car serviced.
Sunday, February 09, 2003
PRAYER REQUEST
My grandmother is back in the hospital again after suffering another stroke on Friday morning. Please pray for her and for a speedy recovery.
My grandmother is back in the hospital again after suffering another stroke on Friday morning. Please pray for her and for a speedy recovery.
Saturday, February 08, 2003
MICHAEL JACKSON: JACKO OR WACKO?
After watching the 20/20 Michael Jackson interview on Thursday night, I can't help but feel sad and weirded out (is that a word?) about the whole thing. I mean, this is a kid who I grew up idolizing. I loved the Jackson 5, everything from their music, their image, to their cartoon. And then, everybody cameto idolize MJ ater his "Thriller" album. That was the best album I've ever heard. In fact, yesterday, they were playing all Michael Jackson songs on the Beat Friday afternoon and I couldn't help bob my head to the music.
But after watching the way he treats his kids (they wear masks whenever they are out in public), the way he goes on million dollar shopping sprees, and the way he denies having plastic surgery for his face, I have to feel sad. (And I'm not even going to touch about the fact that he lets young boys sleep in his bed. So gross!)
I think it's all a result of bad parenting. His father was so hard on him that he cracked the whip (sometimes literally) for him to succeed. If you add that, plus the pressures as the lead singer to succeed, plus all that fame and fortune at such a young age, plus the fact that you never had a true childhood, then this is what you get. Now, it seems like he's doing the exact opposite of what he got in life. He buys things like crazy because it's a way of feeling loved. He masks his kids because he was thrown into the spotlight so much that he took things to the other extreme. And he loves hanging out with kids because he's still a kid himself.
Unfortunately, in this case, it seems like success and super-stardom cost this man his life. And the worst part is that the vicious cycle is still going. Pray for his kids.
After watching the 20/20 Michael Jackson interview on Thursday night, I can't help but feel sad and weirded out (is that a word?) about the whole thing. I mean, this is a kid who I grew up idolizing. I loved the Jackson 5, everything from their music, their image, to their cartoon. And then, everybody cameto idolize MJ ater his "Thriller" album. That was the best album I've ever heard. In fact, yesterday, they were playing all Michael Jackson songs on the Beat Friday afternoon and I couldn't help bob my head to the music.
But after watching the way he treats his kids (they wear masks whenever they are out in public), the way he goes on million dollar shopping sprees, and the way he denies having plastic surgery for his face, I have to feel sad. (And I'm not even going to touch about the fact that he lets young boys sleep in his bed. So gross!)
I think it's all a result of bad parenting. His father was so hard on him that he cracked the whip (sometimes literally) for him to succeed. If you add that, plus the pressures as the lead singer to succeed, plus all that fame and fortune at such a young age, plus the fact that you never had a true childhood, then this is what you get. Now, it seems like he's doing the exact opposite of what he got in life. He buys things like crazy because it's a way of feeling loved. He masks his kids because he was thrown into the spotlight so much that he took things to the other extreme. And he loves hanging out with kids because he's still a kid himself.
Unfortunately, in this case, it seems like success and super-stardom cost this man his life. And the worst part is that the vicious cycle is still going. Pray for his kids.
Thursday, February 06, 2003
THESE SHOES WERE MADE FOR WALKING
I am now the proud owner of some New Balance 805s, thanks to Karena and her parents. However, that of course, means that I will have to retire the Nike's I've been wearing for so long now.
Those shoes took me everywhere -- from China to New York to the Cabazon outlet store it came from. It helped me traverse over the Yangtze River, the Long Beach harbor, and all those unidentifiable fluids that cover men's bathrooms everywhere. And that's not even mentioning all the gross things I've stepped on while wearing those Nikes in the hospital!
Yes, those shoes carried me a long way. But all good things must come to an end.
I wonder where these New Balance will take me.
I am now the proud owner of some New Balance 805s, thanks to Karena and her parents. However, that of course, means that I will have to retire the Nike's I've been wearing for so long now.
Those shoes took me everywhere -- from China to New York to the Cabazon outlet store it came from. It helped me traverse over the Yangtze River, the Long Beach harbor, and all those unidentifiable fluids that cover men's bathrooms everywhere. And that's not even mentioning all the gross things I've stepped on while wearing those Nikes in the hospital!
Yes, those shoes carried me a long way. But all good things must come to an end.
I wonder where these New Balance will take me.
Wednesday, February 05, 2003
MY TRIP TO JURY DUTY
After being off for two days, I was finally got called into jury duty. And even though it should have been a fun thing, I was pretty nervous for some reason.
Anyway, I spent the whole day sitting in a room full of people just like me who didn't want to be there. Good thing Karena suggested I bring a lot of things to read ... because I ended up having time to read them all (and then some).
The first time they called people to serve on a jury, it required a 60-day committment. Obviously, we were given the right to say whether we could or could not do it. Most said "no," but a surprisingly large number of people said "yes." I couldn't believe it. The next one was a 35-day commitment. Again, I said "no" but still many more said "yes." These people must have no lives, I thought.
Anyway, during our lunch break, I strolled around downtown because I never get the chance to do that. There's so much to see there and I didn't want to miss it. I walked around the Music Center and watched as kids played in the rising fountain that comes out of the ground. I saw the new L.A. Cathedral and the Disney Concert Hall that is still being built. I also went to the large fountain that overlooks City Hall and realized they were filming something there. As I got closer, I figured out it was the next Miller Lite commercial featuring those cat-fighting wrestling girls. No, I didn't see them wrestling in the fountain (apparently, they filmed that part earlier that morning). Besides, this commercial features those two women and now two guys basically doing the same thing. Anyway, I was making my way to MOCA (because jurors get in for free), but as I reached the door, I realized I probably should head back so I wouldn't be late.
Upon my return to the jury selection room, I proceeded to sit there again all afternoon and wait for my name to be called to be placed on a jury. But my name never was called and now I am a free man! No more jury duty for at least a year!
Freeeeeeeeeeeeedoooooommmm!!!
After being off for two days, I was finally got called into jury duty. And even though it should have been a fun thing, I was pretty nervous for some reason.
Anyway, I spent the whole day sitting in a room full of people just like me who didn't want to be there. Good thing Karena suggested I bring a lot of things to read ... because I ended up having time to read them all (and then some).
The first time they called people to serve on a jury, it required a 60-day committment. Obviously, we were given the right to say whether we could or could not do it. Most said "no," but a surprisingly large number of people said "yes." I couldn't believe it. The next one was a 35-day commitment. Again, I said "no" but still many more said "yes." These people must have no lives, I thought.
Anyway, during our lunch break, I strolled around downtown because I never get the chance to do that. There's so much to see there and I didn't want to miss it. I walked around the Music Center and watched as kids played in the rising fountain that comes out of the ground. I saw the new L.A. Cathedral and the Disney Concert Hall that is still being built. I also went to the large fountain that overlooks City Hall and realized they were filming something there. As I got closer, I figured out it was the next Miller Lite commercial featuring those cat-fighting wrestling girls. No, I didn't see them wrestling in the fountain (apparently, they filmed that part earlier that morning). Besides, this commercial features those two women and now two guys basically doing the same thing. Anyway, I was making my way to MOCA (because jurors get in for free), but as I reached the door, I realized I probably should head back so I wouldn't be late.
Upon my return to the jury selection room, I proceeded to sit there again all afternoon and wait for my name to be called to be placed on a jury. But my name never was called and now I am a free man! No more jury duty for at least a year!
Freeeeeeeeeeeeedoooooommmm!!!
Tuesday, February 04, 2003
FEBRUARY 4
It was about two years ago on this very day that something special happened. After watchin "X-Men" with Ko and Charice, Karena and I were heading back to her house. On the way up the hill, she asked if we could pull over a minute so we could talk. And finally the words came out: "I think we should try." Since then, we have managed to not only get together, but we've managed to stay together ... for life.
Thank God for that!
It was about two years ago on this very day that something special happened. After watchin "X-Men" with Ko and Charice, Karena and I were heading back to her house. On the way up the hill, she asked if we could pull over a minute so we could talk. And finally the words came out: "I think we should try." Since then, we have managed to not only get together, but we've managed to stay together ... for life.
Thank God for that!
Monday, February 03, 2003
COLUMBIA NEWS
I'm not exactly sure why I did it, but after I heard about the Space Shuttle Columbia going down Saturday morning, I spent almost the whole day watching the news. It was pretty traumatic for me, even though I have never been apart of NASA or knew any of the astronauts. In fact, I haven't even really followed space things for a while (and definitely not like I used to as a kid).
But something caused me to really hurt when I heard about it. I used to have a poster of the Columbia up on my wall. Maybe that was the connection I had with it. Whatever the case may be, I was saddened to hear about the news. But I was comforted by the words of President Bush who said: "The Space Shuttle Columbia did not return safely to earth. But we can pray that they are safely home."
I'm not exactly sure why I did it, but after I heard about the Space Shuttle Columbia going down Saturday morning, I spent almost the whole day watching the news. It was pretty traumatic for me, even though I have never been apart of NASA or knew any of the astronauts. In fact, I haven't even really followed space things for a while (and definitely not like I used to as a kid).
But something caused me to really hurt when I heard about it. I used to have a poster of the Columbia up on my wall. Maybe that was the connection I had with it. Whatever the case may be, I was saddened to hear about the news. But I was comforted by the words of President Bush who said: "The Space Shuttle Columbia did not return safely to earth. But we can pray that they are safely home."
Sunday, February 02, 2003
EATING WITH NO TALKING
My family went out for lunch yesterday to celebrate Chinese New Year at (you'll never believe this) ...
Hometown Buffet! The rationale was that it would be too busy (and expensive) to go to a Chinese place. But that was only the beginning. And as is the Shen tradition, we ended up staying there a long time (usually over an hour). But this time, it was an all-time record of (are you ready for this?) two hours and forty-five minutes! Shoot, I could have almost finished Lord of the Rings during that time! My dad just kept going back up there again and again, followed by my uncle, then my other uncle, over and over again. You know how we Shens have to get our money's worth! =)
Obviously, I had a lot of time to kill there so I started looking around the place. I've always enjoyed the Norman Rockwell artwork they hang up so I was checking those out when I realized something about the people sitting in the booths below the artwork. There were about 8 booths there, all with couples in them, and almost all of them were dead silent. I mean, here we were, a huge Chinese family, being obnoxiously loud (another Shen speciality) and then there were 8 couples who couldn't muster up two measly words to each other. One man just ate while reading the newspaper while his wife just looked down at her mashed potatoes and chicken as she eat. They never said a word. Another guy just looked around the room while his wife sat there zoning out. Again, not one word spoken. This went on for 7 couples sitting in 7 booths. Finally, the last one had a young (probably college-aged) couple sitting on the same side of the booth, but still barely talking to each other.
What is going on here? Have we become so obsessed with our computers, email, cell phones, instant messaging, etc. that we don't even know how to talk to people face to face anymore?
Seeing this disturbed me greatly. So to make myself feel better, I got up to get myself some soft serve frozen yogurt.
My family went out for lunch yesterday to celebrate Chinese New Year at (you'll never believe this) ...
Hometown Buffet! The rationale was that it would be too busy (and expensive) to go to a Chinese place. But that was only the beginning. And as is the Shen tradition, we ended up staying there a long time (usually over an hour). But this time, it was an all-time record of (are you ready for this?) two hours and forty-five minutes! Shoot, I could have almost finished Lord of the Rings during that time! My dad just kept going back up there again and again, followed by my uncle, then my other uncle, over and over again. You know how we Shens have to get our money's worth! =)
Obviously, I had a lot of time to kill there so I started looking around the place. I've always enjoyed the Norman Rockwell artwork they hang up so I was checking those out when I realized something about the people sitting in the booths below the artwork. There were about 8 booths there, all with couples in them, and almost all of them were dead silent. I mean, here we were, a huge Chinese family, being obnoxiously loud (another Shen speciality) and then there were 8 couples who couldn't muster up two measly words to each other. One man just ate while reading the newspaper while his wife just looked down at her mashed potatoes and chicken as she eat. They never said a word. Another guy just looked around the room while his wife sat there zoning out. Again, not one word spoken. This went on for 7 couples sitting in 7 booths. Finally, the last one had a young (probably college-aged) couple sitting on the same side of the booth, but still barely talking to each other.
What is going on here? Have we become so obsessed with our computers, email, cell phones, instant messaging, etc. that we don't even know how to talk to people face to face anymore?
Seeing this disturbed me greatly. So to make myself feel better, I got up to get myself some soft serve frozen yogurt.
Saturday, February 01, 2003
QUICK THOUGHTS
1. Happy New Year! And special congratulations go out to all the Lambs/Rams out there because this is your year (Sandra!)
2. I spent last night (New Year's eve) going to two dinners -- one with my family at a restaurant in San Gabriel and one with Karena's family at their house. Both dinners were good, but I just hope this "trying to please everyone by going to two dinners" thing doesnt' carry over once we're married.
3. In response to my last blog about my mad week, I found out (though I'm not supposed to know) that one of the nurses wrote an email to my boss saying that I had gone above and beyond the call of duty this past week. Needless to say, that was pretty darn nice of her and made me feel a whole lot better about the whole situation.
4. People have been asking me a lot lately whether I'm getting nervous about getting married now that it's less than 3 months away. My answer has always beena resounding "No." But I am concerned that we won't get all the planning stuff done in time.
5. I may have to go to jury duty at the downtown Criminal Courts Building on Monday. I have to call in Sunday night to see. A part of me wants to go just for the experience (and a nice break from work), but the other half of me feels badly, knowing that we're really short-staffed at work right now. Last time I was at the Criminal Courts Building, I ran into Snoop Dogg. Who will I run into this time?
1. Happy New Year! And special congratulations go out to all the Lambs/Rams out there because this is your year (Sandra!)
2. I spent last night (New Year's eve) going to two dinners -- one with my family at a restaurant in San Gabriel and one with Karena's family at their house. Both dinners were good, but I just hope this "trying to please everyone by going to two dinners" thing doesnt' carry over once we're married.
3. In response to my last blog about my mad week, I found out (though I'm not supposed to know) that one of the nurses wrote an email to my boss saying that I had gone above and beyond the call of duty this past week. Needless to say, that was pretty darn nice of her and made me feel a whole lot better about the whole situation.
4. People have been asking me a lot lately whether I'm getting nervous about getting married now that it's less than 3 months away. My answer has always beena resounding "No." But I am concerned that we won't get all the planning stuff done in time.
5. I may have to go to jury duty at the downtown Criminal Courts Building on Monday. I have to call in Sunday night to see. A part of me wants to go just for the experience (and a nice break from work), but the other half of me feels badly, knowing that we're really short-staffed at work right now. Last time I was at the Criminal Courts Building, I ran into Snoop Dogg. Who will I run into this time?
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