Friday, April 30, 2004

VERY QUICK BLOG
I saw Dodger announcer Vin Scully in Beverly Hills this week and almost ran him over (well, on second thought, it wasn't that close). Good thing I didn't ... or else I'd have all of LA after me.

In other news, I found out a bit of juicy news about somebody who's going to die on the TV show 24. So, if you want to know, email me because I feel the need to tell somebody.

Thursday, April 29, 2004

A GAPING HOLE
Tuesday marked the beginning of the end for my bottom left wisdom tooth. As per my dentist's instructions, I marched myself into this oral surgeon's office and had to wait for over two hours just to get into the back room.
Finally, the moment of truth came. As I was sitting in that chair all alone in the room, I ran my fingers over all my bottom teeth. So sad that one would soon be gone.
The surgeon came in and had me sign all these consent forms. Then, the nurse came in and gave me my "post-op instructions." Suddenly, I began to fear the worst since it finally donned on me that this was being considered a "surgical procedure." The surgeon came back in and rudely announced his name to me before jabbing me two or three times with Novacane and walked off. That strung (I'm a wimp when it comes to shots) really bad! Then, he came back two minutes later and asked, "Are you numb?"
"Yup," I replied.
"Okay, let's go. I'm going to put some pressure on the tooth."
And pop! Just like that, the tooth was out, the surgeon ripped off his gloves and walked out.
I was left with a gaping hole and gauze in my mouth.
The next few hours were bloody, but not very painful (surprisingly enough). And now, two days later, there has been very little pain, and only the inconvenience of trying to eat on one side and trying to keep the area clean.
Finally, you might be wondering if I kept the tooth. After being all nostalgic about the whole thing before the tooh was extracted, I took one look at it . . . and threw it in the trash.

Wednesday, April 28, 2004

ANNIVERSARY
I have to admit that there is definitely some good feelings about sharing our first anniversary together. This first year, we were faced with many trials and hardships (mostly bad luck), but somehow, as I look back, I can only remember that we laughed a lot. We enjoyed our company together.
We chose to celebrate the first of many anniveraries to come at Citrine on Melrose. We had the Duo of Beef and a pan seared John Dory and the pineapple fritters for desert. Everything was good, but the best part of the meal was the Combination of Root soup served in what looked like a shot glass. It was a tasty blend of potatoes, carrots, and taro.
It was a beautiful evening and one I will always cherish.

Tuesday, April 27, 2004

WEEKEND UPDATE
1. We finally saw "Kill Bill Vol. 1" and even Karena thought it was entertaining. Yes, it was violent, but I enjoyed the fight scenes and the creativity. Karena loved the cinematography, especially when Uma fights Lucy Liu. But we both had some issues professionally speaking during the "Wiggle your big toe" scene. Trust us when we say, that's impossible.
2. Roadtrips are fun.
3. The only way to order a good, juicy prime rib is "medium."
4. For some reason, I only bowl well during Frames 3-8. The first two and the last two are always rocky. I guess I'm just built to be a middle reliever.
5. There's nothing quite like getting stopped for about an hour on the freeway to have two helicopter land to take injured people to the hospital after a major car accident.
6. For the first time ever in buffet history, after only being about 3/4 done with my first plate, I leaned over to Karena and said, "I'm full."
7. What a great sports weekend: Lakers win, Angels sweep the A's, Dodgers take 2 of 3 from the Giants, Red Sox sweep the Yankees.

Friday, April 23, 2004

CAR CHASE
For the majority of this afternoon, I've been following on TV a car chase that has gone through the streets of Montebello.
Ahh, there's no place like home . . . =)

Thursday, April 22, 2004

INTROVERT
Some people don't believe me when I tell them that I'm actually an introvert. Yes, it is true that I'm usually the guy trying to grab all the attention. But at work, I'm very introverted. I usually keep to myself, get the job done, and go home. In fact, as I have previously mentioned, I don't even eat lunch with my co-workers, instead finding a solitary place to eat and read before going to my secret resort (aka my car) for a quick power nap.
Today, we were celebrating the last day of one of our students who was at our clinic for an internship for the past four months. We bought food from this Chinese place and ate together. I have to admit that I almost said no because I had already brought my lunch and was looking forward to a much-needed nap (we didn't get home until after 11pm because of class last night). But I didn't want to be too introverted or appear anti-social, so I went.
As it turned out, I was so hungry and we were so late in starting, that I just gobbled up my overpriced Chinese food (where's Monterey Park when you need it?), and went back to seeing patients.
Next time, maybe I'll just stay introverted in my car.

Tuesday, April 20, 2004

SANDRA AND GABE'S HOUSE
One of the highlights of this past weekend was also getting to finally see Sandra and Gabe's home. All along, I had heard how small the house was, but to me, it was cozy. The kitchen was amazing, the furniture was beautiful (and even more beautiful when I found out the good deals they got), and the overall vibe (Michael' word) was very warm. I immediately felt comfortable in the bathroom, which according to Gary, is a sure sign of knowing that you feel at home. Also, seeing Sandra's old oil paintings (from when she was in elementary school) hanging on the walls brought back a lot of memories.
It's nice to see them settled and comfortable in their own home. Plus, it's a place that they could potentially live in for a while, even if they family expands.

Monday, April 19, 2004

THOUGHTS FROM THE DRIVE
When I'm driving in the middle of nowhere in Central California, I often think that this is probably what the first settlers saw. Flat grassy lands with mountain peaks in the distance. Beautiful. There's nothing quite like getting away and seeing beautiful scenery to break up the monotony of city life.
Also, San Francisco is NOT a place I could ever see myself living. It's too windy, there's too many hills, and way too much traffic. I'd rather sit in traffic on the freeway than deal with San Francisco. Plus, the rain one minute, sun the next just gets to me. Of well, at least the rains left just in time for the sunshine and blue skies to come out for the wedding.
I enjoyed sharing the ride with Karena, Mike, and Luong.

Sunday, April 18, 2004

GREAT WEEKEND
Again, I have to say congratulations to Regina and Gary on getting married yesterday. The ceremony was simple, yet beautiful. You know when Steve Lo is running the show, it's going to be a beautiful thing. The best part of the ceremony? During his pastoral encouragement time, Steve Lo turned to Gary and said some specific suggestions on spiritual leadership. It felt like something he would say to Gary behind closed doors ... and he was letting us all in on his insight. I was inspired by it.
In the evening, the banquet was held in San Francisco's Chinatown. The food was good, the company was even better. But what was the best? Our frequest phone calls to people to get an update on the Lakers game. Then, a bunch of us running around Chinatown looking for a TV when there were only 2 minutes left in the game. We ended up just having Enoch and Reuel relaying info to us that they were getting over their cell phones. Lakers 72, Rockets 71. Afterward, we felt much better and could focus again. It was truly a celebration.

Thursday, April 15, 2004

NOT IN MY JOB DESCRIPTION
One thing you sometimes have to concern yourself with as a Physical Therapist is when patients are lying or stretching the truth. Or, sometimes patients let their emotions dictate how they feel physically. That's when it becomes my job to decipher between the mess and try to bring about the quickest resolution. When you know (or you think you know) where the pain's origin, you're more effective in treating it.
But lately, I've been feeling more and more like people's pain is almost fake. They seem to be playing it up. And I used to get sucked into it, trying to play the "good guy." But today, I just couldn't take it anymore and I discharged this patient, mostly because I thought she was faking and playing it up. She had no physical signs of swelling, no joint stiffness, no muscle guarding or tightness. So, I let her go.
Now, I just feel ruthless about the whole thing.

On a much lighter note, congratulations to Gary and Regina, who will be pronounced husband and wife this weekend!

Wednesday, April 14, 2004

TUESDAY RECAP
Before I recap my Tuesday, I have to say that I just finished watching the Lakers/Blazers game and that was THE BEST REGULAR SEASON GAME I HAVE EVER SEEN!!! It had excitement, drama, and left me somewhere between tears, laughter, and all our joy. Now, it's playoff time. I can't wait.
The first big news about Tuesday was that shows like American Idol and 24 were preempted by President Bush's press conference. It's amazing how much heat President Bush took not so much for what he said, but for bumping American Idol one day behind. People at work today were claiming that "ruined everything." How sad that our world revolves around Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson (yeah, dawg!) and Ryan Seacrest (Seacrest out!)
And Tuesday night, I got to experience the Angels home opener with Michael. The ballpark looked great, the atmosphere was electric, and the Angels pulled out a come from behind victory. The best part? Watching many "movie clips" featuring the infamous Rally Monkey including clips from The Ring (where the Rally Monkey comes out of the TV), E.T. (with the Rally Monkey playing the featured role), and National Lampoon's Vacation (Rally Monkey as Christy Brinkley). The result of the Rally Monkey's Oscar performances? Angels 7, Mariners 5.

Tuesday, April 13, 2004

LAKERS VS. KINGS
A bunch of us went to Simon's to watch the game ... and ended up watching a blowout. Kobe decided not to shoot and now all of LA is up in arms. People are claiming this was his most selfish act by trying to prove that the Lakers can't win if he doesn't shoot. (The word on the street is that Coach Phil Jackson and/or Shaq gave him heat for shooting too much recently). I'm scheduled to go on vacation for a week next month and was worried about missing too many Laker playoff games.
But if they don't start to check their egos at the door, I might not have to worry about missing any games.

Sunday, April 11, 2004

BIRTHDAY FUN
First off, Happy Easter to everyone.
Secondly, I have to say I had the greatest time at Jason's birthday party yesterday. Debbie sure knows how to throw a party. Between that Karaoke Revolution game, a sword getting stuck in the kitchen ceiling, watching Robotech, spraying water at Jason (a favorite pastime of all his friends -- just look at his bachelor party), I have to say that I have never laughed harder.
By the way, if you missed Luong's version of Billie Jean, it was priceless. On the other hand, if you missed my version of Wind Beneath My Wings, consider yourself lucky.

Friday, April 09, 2004

GOOD FRIDAY
He died for me.
I'll live for Him.

Thursday, April 08, 2004

JUST BE YOURSELF
One thing I really admire about my wife is she is the same person no matter who she is with: her parents, her church friends, her co-workers, strangers she meets on the street. As for me, I tend to be a changer. I'm very quiet and introverted at work, much louder and extroverted at church, and generally pretty lazy at home. I used to think this was a good thing because I tried to identify with the people I was with and adapt to them. For example, if I'm hanging out with teenagers, I'll listen to hip-hop and talk about the internet or popular TV shows. If I'm with adults, I'll listen to adult contemporary music and talk about world issues. But now, I'm beginning to think this isn't such a good thing. Instead of accenting a certain part of my life to meet people where they are, I am watering down myself. And I'm not standing up for what I believe in.
The bottom line? I should just be myself . . . all the time.

Tuesday, April 06, 2004

TIME WITH THE FAMILY
It's always fun to have new people come see our house for the first time. And not just because we love watching them drive around the house looking for it before they realize that the house is exactly the thing they've been driving around!
My aunt and uncle, and cousins Tammy and Kimmy, and Tammy's boyfriend Hudson (no, his last name is not Taylor) came by. It was a simple evening of Costco pizza, Costco Caesar salad, and fruit from our tree, but being together with family was nice. Plus, my aunt seemed pretty impressed with some of the details of the house.
This was also the first time we have met Hudson. He seemed very respectful and helpful. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been to not only meet Tammy's cousins for the first time, but to also look at their home (something I was never good at as a kid).

Monday, April 05, 2004

IN REMEMBRANCE
Yesterday (April 4) was the 36th anniverary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Today marks the 10 year anniversary of the suicide of influencial musician and Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain. As a way of remembering and celebrating them, I listened to U2's "Pride" and various Nirvana songs.
Friday marks the 2,000th anniversary (the number has been rounded off) of the crucifixation of Jesus Christ. As a way of remembering Him, I have prayed, mediated, and sung songs.
All three of these men were great in their own, respective way. But with only one of them does the story continue . . .
Sunday marks the 2,000 anniversary of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. As a way of remembering Him, I live my life for Him.

Sunday, April 04, 2004

PAINFUL WORDS
For a guy like me, the only thing I love more than eating is eating RIGHT NOW! Since we get back so late from work most days, we end up eating frozen food around 9pm for dinner. And the absolute worst words to read at that time are: "Let stand to cool for 2-3 minutes."
Just sitting there and staring at my food make those few minutes the most painful minutes of my entire day.

Saturday, April 03, 2004

COFFEE TALK
I went out for coffee with my former UCLA co-worker (let's call her "Jenny"). Jenny had moved across the country to live with her boyfriend and to get a job here in LA. They had been together for over three years and basically acted like a married couple, minus the legality and the paperwork.
But just a few months ago, her boyfriend (also a good friend of mine) began to have a change of heart, but wasn't man enough to talk to her about it. So, she had to be the strong one and end things when she began noticing things weren't the same. She's the one who had to move out, find her own place, and get settled in an area where she had few friends and was "on his turf." But I'm glad to report that she is doing fairly well and is in a good place, all things considered.
But she asked me this question: Do you think people should live together before getting married? Her thought was, because she didn't feel the urge to have kids yet, getting married was just a piece of paper. It's not any different than being in a loving, committed relationship. I told her we didn't move in together, even when we were engaged, because we wanted being married to mean something different and something special, plus it's the "right" thing to do. In retrospect, I was glad the first 6 months of our marriage were filled with little disagreements as we learned how to live together because it deepened our understanding for each other and set a better foundation for our marriage.
Another viewpoint expressed was that people shoul definitely live together beforehand because if they can live together, then they know they can survive and manage the marriage (without divorce).
I don't know. I'm standing firm on my viewpoint.

Thursday, April 01, 2004

FISHY
When I first learned that I was allergic to guacamole, I was pretty disappointed in myself. I have always took pride in myself, knowing that I could eat virtually anything and be fine. But after throwing up every time, I realized I had to stop eating the stuff.
Now, it appears that another food item is also making that list. I can't eat processed fish like fish sticks, frozen breaded fish, or even frozen seasoned fish fillets. Everytime I eat them, I get the worst stomach ache (similar, but not as bad as the guacamole one). The good news is that I don't throw up after eating it. But the bad news is that I just feel miserable the rest of the night until I go to bed (like I'm probably going to do very soon since we had some tonight).

This page is powered by Blogger. Isn't yours?

Subscribe to Posts [Atom]