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Saturday, December 19, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
28 October 2009
Left San Jose on UA56 from SFO to EWR (Newark, New Jersey) and then connecting on AC7739 from EWR to YUL (Montreal). Flight was pretty good except from EWR to YUL when it got delayed for 30 mins as the incoming flight into Newark was delayed so, flights out was backed up.
We finally arrived into Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau airport around 11am. Hopped onto a shuttle bus that took us to Wyndham Hotel to collect our car rental from Payless Rent-A-Car. We rented a Toyota Corolla and headed for the city of Laval to Bois Papineau. This is about an hour's drive away and with the aid of the GPS, managed to find it. This is about the last place that still has some trees left with the fall colors intact on some trees. The rest is probably all bald from the wind and cold. By the way, I was frozen coz daytime temperature today was 3degC and this is not taking into consideration the wind chill yet.
Here's the pictures from Bois Papineau:
After the tour of the fall colors, we went for lunch at this Italian restaurant called Buongusto I and I had penne arabiatta, Sam had lasagne and Ed had rack of lamb. The food was so good but I couldn't finish it esp after I gorged myself on fried octopus all by myself. That was an entree dish and I thought it was a starter so, was 50% full already after that. Kinda regretted ordering the penne and I only managed to finish 15% of the food and had the rest to go. They packed it nicely and on the way out of the restaurant, realized that they didn't give me a disposable fork. So, I pusing balik to get the fork. Asked the waiter, "could you please give me a disposable fork?" And guess what, he heard. He gave me a phone. Said I could use that. I was confused. Now, what has a disposable fork gotta do with a phone. Obviously, he misheard me. I said again, "disposable fork." And he laughed. "Oh, ok, you wanted fork, not phone." I laughed as he opened the drawer and handed me the fork. Thanked him and was still laughing myself crazy on the way out. My English must've been really bad for him to mistook fork for phone. That was funny....
We then drove 3.5 hours to Quebec City. Staying at Courtyard Marriott. Here's Sam and me outside the hotel. Mind you, the temperature at that time was like 3degC and the wind was blowing hard at us. I think our smiles are transfixed on our face as everything exposed just grew numb.
We checked into the hotel. Quite a nice size room and the receptionist and valet person was kind. Booked our tour for tomorrow. Was supposed to do a walking tour together with a crew on St Lawrence River but turned out, the river tour has been canceled due to the cold.
In spite of the cold and wind, we managed to walk through the upper part of the city. It was really brrr...cold. The only part that was nice and warm was my body. The feet, the face, the hands (in spite of leather gloves and all), the head was all cold and grew numb.
Because of such a heavy lunch I had, was somewhat not hungry so, we went out looking for gelato instead. Must have been crazy to eat ice-cream in this darn cold place but what the heck, greediness rules for the night. Went into this cool gelato place and I had lychee gelato while Sam had apple and passion fruit. Eating it inside ain't as bad but walking out later was most regrettable as the teeth were chattering.
Now I understand why people who live in cold countries walk so fast coz Sam and me literally had to somewhat "walk-run" (if there is such a word) back to the hotel. Ah...nice and warm lobby.
Later part of the night, Ed had to go out to Subway nearby and bought some minestrone soup for the 2 of us coz we were so nice and warm inside the hotel, we decided not to go out to look for dinner anymore and gobbled down the leftover penne arabiatta shared amongst the 3 of us.
Checked my emails, wrote my blogs, uploaded my pics on FaceBook and yawn...time now to go to sleep. Good night...
We finally arrived into Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau airport around 11am. Hopped onto a shuttle bus that took us to Wyndham Hotel to collect our car rental from Payless Rent-A-Car. We rented a Toyota Corolla and headed for the city of Laval to Bois Papineau. This is about an hour's drive away and with the aid of the GPS, managed to find it. This is about the last place that still has some trees left with the fall colors intact on some trees. The rest is probably all bald from the wind and cold. By the way, I was frozen coz daytime temperature today was 3degC and this is not taking into consideration the wind chill yet.
Here's the pictures from Bois Papineau:
After the tour of the fall colors, we went for lunch at this Italian restaurant called Buongusto I and I had penne arabiatta, Sam had lasagne and Ed had rack of lamb. The food was so good but I couldn't finish it esp after I gorged myself on fried octopus all by myself. That was an entree dish and I thought it was a starter so, was 50% full already after that. Kinda regretted ordering the penne and I only managed to finish 15% of the food and had the rest to go. They packed it nicely and on the way out of the restaurant, realized that they didn't give me a disposable fork. So, I pusing balik to get the fork. Asked the waiter, "could you please give me a disposable fork?" And guess what, he heard. He gave me a phone. Said I could use that. I was confused. Now, what has a disposable fork gotta do with a phone. Obviously, he misheard me. I said again, "disposable fork." And he laughed. "Oh, ok, you wanted fork, not phone." I laughed as he opened the drawer and handed me the fork. Thanked him and was still laughing myself crazy on the way out. My English must've been really bad for him to mistook fork for phone. That was funny....
We then drove 3.5 hours to Quebec City. Staying at Courtyard Marriott. Here's Sam and me outside the hotel. Mind you, the temperature at that time was like 3degC and the wind was blowing hard at us. I think our smiles are transfixed on our face as everything exposed just grew numb.
We checked into the hotel. Quite a nice size room and the receptionist and valet person was kind. Booked our tour for tomorrow. Was supposed to do a walking tour together with a crew on St Lawrence River but turned out, the river tour has been canceled due to the cold.
In spite of the cold and wind, we managed to walk through the upper part of the city. It was really brrr...cold. The only part that was nice and warm was my body. The feet, the face, the hands (in spite of leather gloves and all), the head was all cold and grew numb.
Because of such a heavy lunch I had, was somewhat not hungry so, we went out looking for gelato instead. Must have been crazy to eat ice-cream in this darn cold place but what the heck, greediness rules for the night. Went into this cool gelato place and I had lychee gelato while Sam had apple and passion fruit. Eating it inside ain't as bad but walking out later was most regrettable as the teeth were chattering.
Now I understand why people who live in cold countries walk so fast coz Sam and me literally had to somewhat "walk-run" (if there is such a word) back to the hotel. Ah...nice and warm lobby.
Later part of the night, Ed had to go out to Subway nearby and bought some minestrone soup for the 2 of us coz we were so nice and warm inside the hotel, we decided not to go out to look for dinner anymore and gobbled down the leftover penne arabiatta shared amongst the 3 of us.
Checked my emails, wrote my blogs, uploaded my pics on FaceBook and yawn...time now to go to sleep. Good night...
Monday, October 26, 2009
19 October 2009
Today is the day of doing good coz I had to go buy King's eggroll for Sam's tennis team who was playing at Cuesta Park in Mountain View. Set out at 12.30pm to Story Road to buy the eggrolls. There was this vagrant sitting outside and he mumbled something to me which I couldn't comprehend so, I ignored him
Went in there and ordered the eggrolls and came out in 10 mins. And the vagrant wished me, "have a good day" which I replied automatically, "you too." As I was putting my eggrolls into the trunk of my car, dawned on me that this poor vagrant won't have much of a good day would he if he's tired and hungry. So, I close my trunk and walked up to him and asked him if he has eaten anything and he retort, "no, I haven't eaten. I was thinking of chow mein." So, I said to him, "Ok, let's go inside and get you some chow mein." And I asked him what size he wanted and he chose the quart over the pint and I ordered and paid for it and gave him chopsticks and forks and tell him to enjoy the food. His reply, "bless you sweetie." That was enough for me coz I know I have done something good today and that brought a smile to my face the rest of the day. Indeed, giving is so much more rewarding than receiving!
Went in there and ordered the eggrolls and came out in 10 mins. And the vagrant wished me, "have a good day" which I replied automatically, "you too." As I was putting my eggrolls into the trunk of my car, dawned on me that this poor vagrant won't have much of a good day would he if he's tired and hungry. So, I close my trunk and walked up to him and asked him if he has eaten anything and he retort, "no, I haven't eaten. I was thinking of chow mein." So, I said to him, "Ok, let's go inside and get you some chow mein." And I asked him what size he wanted and he chose the quart over the pint and I ordered and paid for it and gave him chopsticks and forks and tell him to enjoy the food. His reply, "bless you sweetie." That was enough for me coz I know I have done something good today and that brought a smile to my face the rest of the day. Indeed, giving is so much more rewarding than receiving!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
21 Oct 2009
Played my 2nd BALL match. This is an away game. Had to wake up early as had to leave the house by 7am to reach CSF by 8am for our carpool to Lafayette. This place is about 1h15m drive away. Carpooled with Taemi, Noriko, Sharon, Melanie and Colleen. We reached there in good time by 9am. Warmed up with Sharon and then, played #2 doubles partnering Melanie today.
Our opponents were Judy and Marjan from Lafayette Tennis Club. Marjan was a nice lady but with an attitude and nose so high in the air, it didn't augur too well for me. Made me want to put her in her place coz she struts around like she owns the court, look at us as if she can squash us easily. Bottomline is, I don't like her attitude at all. Told Melanie before the start of the game to whack and play offensive.
We started on time around 9.30am and won the 1st set 6-0. Marjan was pissed at one point when I hit a return of weak serve from her partner Judy and banged it straight at her. She gave me this look that tells me, "wait till I get my hands on you." I apologized, albeit reluctantly. She was also pissed at her partner Judy coz we kept attacking the weaker opponent and Judy kept losing points. At the end of the 1st set, Judy tried to calm Marjan down but Marjan gave Judy a cold shoulder and walked away without uttering a word. Talk about pressure!!! But Judy was cool as a cat, she just kept on smiling.
In the 2nd, they gave us a run for our money and though we won it 6-2, it wasn't as easy as the score suggests. Judy actually played a much better game and kept returning every shot and we made the errors ourselves. But, I think I played well and didn't falter at critical points and Melanie was able to put the ball away when I set it up nicely for her from the baseline. When we shook hands, I told Marjan that was a good game, meaning the 2nd set but she retort, "I don't think so." Well, so much for trying to strike up a conversation. I gave up trying to be nice to her after that. On our way out, Marjan saw her captain and as her captain was about the open her mouth to ask her the results, she quipped, "Oh, don't even go there. I don't want to talk about it. Don't ask about scores." And the captain shut up and didn't say anything after that. She must be another one of those kiasu player. Apparently she's a singles player than doubles. That explains her demeanor on court where she doesn't play as a team member. Also, told me that she hasn't played for a week. Wanted to tell her off, "excuses" but held my tongue coz I didn't want to start a fight, hehehe!
All's well that ends well coz the team won as a whole so, it was a worthwhile trip to drive so far for the match. Also Lafayette TC was the unbeaten team as they've played 3 matches and have won them all so far. Guess they just lost their bragging rights as we beat them, hehehe!
We all then went for lunch at Max's Diner. Shared an egg white omelet with Melanie. Food was so-so, nothing fanciful. After lunch, went to Marshalls to do some shopping but didn't buy anything coz not many XS sizes. Yay, saved some $$...
Our opponents were Judy and Marjan from Lafayette Tennis Club. Marjan was a nice lady but with an attitude and nose so high in the air, it didn't augur too well for me. Made me want to put her in her place coz she struts around like she owns the court, look at us as if she can squash us easily. Bottomline is, I don't like her attitude at all. Told Melanie before the start of the game to whack and play offensive.
We started on time around 9.30am and won the 1st set 6-0. Marjan was pissed at one point when I hit a return of weak serve from her partner Judy and banged it straight at her. She gave me this look that tells me, "wait till I get my hands on you." I apologized, albeit reluctantly. She was also pissed at her partner Judy coz we kept attacking the weaker opponent and Judy kept losing points. At the end of the 1st set, Judy tried to calm Marjan down but Marjan gave Judy a cold shoulder and walked away without uttering a word. Talk about pressure!!! But Judy was cool as a cat, she just kept on smiling.
In the 2nd, they gave us a run for our money and though we won it 6-2, it wasn't as easy as the score suggests. Judy actually played a much better game and kept returning every shot and we made the errors ourselves. But, I think I played well and didn't falter at critical points and Melanie was able to put the ball away when I set it up nicely for her from the baseline. When we shook hands, I told Marjan that was a good game, meaning the 2nd set but she retort, "I don't think so." Well, so much for trying to strike up a conversation. I gave up trying to be nice to her after that. On our way out, Marjan saw her captain and as her captain was about the open her mouth to ask her the results, she quipped, "Oh, don't even go there. I don't want to talk about it. Don't ask about scores." And the captain shut up and didn't say anything after that. She must be another one of those kiasu player. Apparently she's a singles player than doubles. That explains her demeanor on court where she doesn't play as a team member. Also, told me that she hasn't played for a week. Wanted to tell her off, "excuses" but held my tongue coz I didn't want to start a fight, hehehe!
All's well that ends well coz the team won as a whole so, it was a worthwhile trip to drive so far for the match. Also Lafayette TC was the unbeaten team as they've played 3 matches and have won them all so far. Guess they just lost their bragging rights as we beat them, hehehe!
We all then went for lunch at Max's Diner. Shared an egg white omelet with Melanie. Food was so-so, nothing fanciful. After lunch, went to Marshalls to do some shopping but didn't buy anything coz not many XS sizes. Yay, saved some $$...
Friday, October 2, 2009
2, 3, 8 October 2009
After a whole week of being sick and having sleepless nights, finally had the courage to go see the doctor for a check up. Was referred to Dr Vo by Cecile, my BALL tennis captain. The physician is based at Palo Alto Medical Foundation (PAMF).
Went there today for my scheduled appointment at 1.30pm. Dr Vo was a very friendly doctor and made me feel at ease. Asked a lot of questions pertaining to my health record and asked about my family health history too. Answered everything to the best of my knowledge.
After the routine Q&A, was told she wanted me to run some tests for the fatigue I complained about. Said she wanted me to come back on Sat, 3 Oct to run lipid profile (cholesterol), blood count, metabolic panel, TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and H pylori. I was asked to fast.
Went there on 3 Oct in the morning and results came back by Monday morning. Was told by the nurse I need to go back there 1 week later to run some more tests as my TSH level is low @ 0.27 uIU/ml.
Was worried sick that I needed long term medication for thyroid but heaved a sigh of relief when my results came back after my 2nd test on Oct 8 that my TSH level has normalized. Thus, no long or short term medication required, phew! Praise God...
Went there today for my scheduled appointment at 1.30pm. Dr Vo was a very friendly doctor and made me feel at ease. Asked a lot of questions pertaining to my health record and asked about my family health history too. Answered everything to the best of my knowledge.
After the routine Q&A, was told she wanted me to run some tests for the fatigue I complained about. Said she wanted me to come back on Sat, 3 Oct to run lipid profile (cholesterol), blood count, metabolic panel, TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and H pylori. I was asked to fast.
Went there on 3 Oct in the morning and results came back by Monday morning. Was told by the nurse I need to go back there 1 week later to run some more tests as my TSH level is low @ 0.27 uIU/ml.
Was worried sick that I needed long term medication for thyroid but heaved a sigh of relief when my results came back after my 2nd test on Oct 8 that my TSH level has normalized. Thus, no long or short term medication required, phew! Praise God...
Sunday, September 27, 2009
27 September 2009
This gastritis thingy is getting to be one disruption to my life. Woke up at 1.36am hungry. Came down for soymilk (that's my staple food for now). Went back to sleep. Woke up with a rumbling stomach again at 3.30am but this time, too lazy to go downstairs again, so, endured the rumbling, couldn't get back to sleep, listened to the songs on my iPod and finally, slept for half an hour and then by, 6.15am, got up and showered as I couldn't sleep a wink anymore. Argh...this is so frustrating. Really, am going to go see a gastroenterologist next week and get it checked.
Went on MSN and chatted with sis a little bit and then cooked an early lunch coz I have a tennis match today at 2pm. Had lunch at 12.20pm, left the house at 12.40pm to go buy King's eggroll at Story Road. Arrived at CSF at 1.20pm and then warmed up with Xiao Lu, Phyllis and Michelle. Well, didn't feel like I was tired so, thought it'll be a good match.
Today, my partner is Phyllis and we played against Pleasanton Park's Rosanna and Pauline, both of whom are 3.0 players. And before the match, we were informed that both of our opponents slices all their shots. So, I told myself, ok, this will be a toughie coz during warm ups, felt like they are striking the ball like a 3.5 player. Hopefully, Phyllis' lobs will work in our favor. The 1st set was tough coz they kept giving Phyllis the ball and she tried her best to lob but somehow, for some strange reason, her lobs didn't work that well. Also, credit to our opponents coz they are able to return lots of the lobs we throw at them at great angles. We broke them in the 1st game, got broken back in the next and then, after that, everyone held serve till we reach 6-6. So, to tiebreak we went and we barely made it but won it 7-3 to go up 7-6 in the 1st set.
And then, someway in the middle of the 2nd set, I started feeling tired and lethargic in spite of me munching on a banana throughout the 1st set during changeovers. So, took out my energy bar and munched on it some more. Then, the fingers starts to shiver which is usually not a good sign coz it means that my body is low on sugar even though I drank Gatorade and water. Told Phyllis I don't want to go to a 3rd set tiebreak coz I know my body won't hold up. We had a good start going up 2-0 in the 2nd but somehow, couldn't hold serve for the opponents to catch up to 2-2. Finally, our break came in the 10th game and we broke them to go up 6-5. Phyllis will have to serve for the match. The opponents were playing really smart attacking Phyllis all the time and they didn't give me any shots at the volley and some I tried to intercept but made unforced errors. Decided to change strategy and help Phyllis out at the baseline and it kinda worked. We were up 30-0 and then they followed with 2 good corner volleys and we were back to 30-30. Dang, this is tough I muttered but, still, gotta hang in there. Told Phyllis, return every ball to them defensively and hope they make the mistake. And, they did and we were up 40-30. Phyllis served and I rushed to the net and they pulled Phyllis to the net with a short ball and the 4 of us rallied with our volleys and finally, I hit the winning volley shot down the middle to give us the game and set. We won 7-5. That was some game I tell you. It was super challenging. Because of our win, the team won 2-1 coz the #2 doubles lost their match in the 3rd set tiebreak. What a pressure match and I nearly collapsed from exhaustion. At the end of it all, Phyllis came through and she hung in there (thanks dearie). Praise be to God for the victory....
Went on MSN and chatted with sis a little bit and then cooked an early lunch coz I have a tennis match today at 2pm. Had lunch at 12.20pm, left the house at 12.40pm to go buy King's eggroll at Story Road. Arrived at CSF at 1.20pm and then warmed up with Xiao Lu, Phyllis and Michelle. Well, didn't feel like I was tired so, thought it'll be a good match.
Today, my partner is Phyllis and we played against Pleasanton Park's Rosanna and Pauline, both of whom are 3.0 players. And before the match, we were informed that both of our opponents slices all their shots. So, I told myself, ok, this will be a toughie coz during warm ups, felt like they are striking the ball like a 3.5 player. Hopefully, Phyllis' lobs will work in our favor. The 1st set was tough coz they kept giving Phyllis the ball and she tried her best to lob but somehow, for some strange reason, her lobs didn't work that well. Also, credit to our opponents coz they are able to return lots of the lobs we throw at them at great angles. We broke them in the 1st game, got broken back in the next and then, after that, everyone held serve till we reach 6-6. So, to tiebreak we went and we barely made it but won it 7-3 to go up 7-6 in the 1st set.
And then, someway in the middle of the 2nd set, I started feeling tired and lethargic in spite of me munching on a banana throughout the 1st set during changeovers. So, took out my energy bar and munched on it some more. Then, the fingers starts to shiver which is usually not a good sign coz it means that my body is low on sugar even though I drank Gatorade and water. Told Phyllis I don't want to go to a 3rd set tiebreak coz I know my body won't hold up. We had a good start going up 2-0 in the 2nd but somehow, couldn't hold serve for the opponents to catch up to 2-2. Finally, our break came in the 10th game and we broke them to go up 6-5. Phyllis will have to serve for the match. The opponents were playing really smart attacking Phyllis all the time and they didn't give me any shots at the volley and some I tried to intercept but made unforced errors. Decided to change strategy and help Phyllis out at the baseline and it kinda worked. We were up 30-0 and then they followed with 2 good corner volleys and we were back to 30-30. Dang, this is tough I muttered but, still, gotta hang in there. Told Phyllis, return every ball to them defensively and hope they make the mistake. And, they did and we were up 40-30. Phyllis served and I rushed to the net and they pulled Phyllis to the net with a short ball and the 4 of us rallied with our volleys and finally, I hit the winning volley shot down the middle to give us the game and set. We won 7-5. That was some game I tell you. It was super challenging. Because of our win, the team won 2-1 coz the #2 doubles lost their match in the 3rd set tiebreak. What a pressure match and I nearly collapsed from exhaustion. At the end of it all, Phyllis came through and she hung in there (thanks dearie). Praise be to God for the victory....
Thursday, September 24, 2009
24 September 2009
Today didn't start off too great. Woke up at 3.48am coz room was spinning. Knew I was in trouble. Tried to block it off by going back to sleep but couldn't. Sleeping on my back didn't help coz room still spinning and neither does sleeping on my left. Finally, sleeping on my right seemed better but can't open my eyes coz it's still spinning. Woke up at 5.15am to drink some warm soy milk but in 5 mins, threw it all out. Went upstairs to wake Sam up at 5.36am and told her I am sick and she needs to find alternative transport to school since I can't drive as I was dizzy. Went back to my room and tried to sleep but threw up 2 more times. Finally, asked Sam to call my friend Emily and asked her what I should do coz I know her husband is a doctor and maybe they can suggest something. Emily told Sam to prop me up and that helped take the dizziness away. Sam had a B day today which means she needs to be in school by 7.40am but couldn't find transportation. Had to call her school to report she will be late and I briefly spoke to the school administrator and told her I wasn't fit to drive as I am dizzy. She said Sam will be excused. Sam finally carpooled with Daniella's mom and left for school at 8am. I took my medication and threw up 1 more time, just couldn't get anything into the stomach. Told Sam to call Dr Tran to come by for house call and give me a jab at 9.30am. Woke up by then and realized room no longer spinning so, quickly texted Sam not to call Dr Tran. Went downstairs to get 2 slices of plain wholemeal bread and a cup of warm soy milk. Took me an hour to finish that 1 slice of bread and Emily called and told me to eat at every 15 min interval and not to rush gobbling down my food. Thanks Em, you're an angel. Finally, went back to sleep till about 1pm. Woke up, showered and came downstairs. Ate 1 more piece of bread and some rice with hot soup. Took my medication, went back to sleep. It has been an exhausting day and I felt weak. But, everything will be ok tomorrow. Praying now for a quick recovery b4 my match this Sunday. Hopefully, no more spinning room tonight. Thanks Sam for handling all the arrangements so well and efficiently and for the sweet note you left on my night stand. Thanks too to Daniella and her mom for coming to the rescue and sending Sam to and from school.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
20 - 22 September 2009
20 Sept - My laptop was infected by the Microsoft Police Pro malware and I couldn't get rid of it although I tried the whole night till 2.30am. Was so darn frustrated coz it won't allow me to run any applications. I ignored it for a while but eventually, it turned off my computer totally. That was the last straw...I gave up....Will have to call my savior, my bro-in-law Chong Khing tomorrow. For now, shoot an email out 1st. Man...what a night!
21 Sept - The carpet cleaner guy came, 9am-2pm. Now the carpets are so white and fluffy. Makes me want to sleep on them. Fetched Sam to her friend's house at Almaden (30 mins drive) at 10.30am and when Ken was done with the carpets, went out to fetch Sam and then head off to CSF to practice tennis (Sam's off school today as it's a holiday at VCS). Sam's doc has given Sam the ok to go back to tennis practice and her coach is mad to put her up for a game the minute she returns (and without any practice since she sprained her ankle till now) on Tue. In a way, can't blame him too coz he doesn't have enough players on the team, just "ngum-ngum." Finished tennis and came home at 5.30pm, ate an early dinner and then, called my savior and CK was great, as usual. He fixed my laptop whilst I clean the house. Didn't finish till 11.30pm. Was dead tired but didn't sleep too well coz night was chilly and I had the windows opened. Tossing and turning the whole night thru.
22 Sept - Sent Sam to school by 7.30am and head off straight to CSF. My BALL match starts at 9.30am but I was at CSF by 8.30am. A guy by the name of Thomas invited me to stroke with him and I did. Within 1/2 an hour, I tire him out with all my corner shots and he gave up. Thanked me for playing with him and said my shots were good and he sweated so, objective gained and I was all nice and warmed up for my BALL match by then.T4, win-win situation for both of us, that's good.
My partner for BALL today is Hoai and we played against Fran and Avis from Walnut Creek RC. Our opponents are senior players and tho they can't run, man, they sure can place the ball extremely well. Their balls are mostly midcourt coz they want to avoid me poaching and volleying and so Hoai hit lots of balls today and ran a lot too. The opponent's shots were kinda loopy and high but not enough for us to smash it down and not low enough for a groundy and it was without pace. That really threw both of us off and we made a lot of unforced errors in the 1st set. Was lucky to win it in tiebreak 7-3. In the 2nd set, told Hoai that we need to be patient and shot selection is ultimate in order to get around them. Return as many balls to them as possible and move them and that brought us through the 2nd set with a 6-2 win. And to cap it all, Fran said I was only 20 yrs old and that's why I could run so fast. If only, she knew, hahaha!
That's me and Hoai on our way out after winning our match 7-6, 6-2 against Walnut Creek RC.
21 Sept - The carpet cleaner guy came, 9am-2pm. Now the carpets are so white and fluffy. Makes me want to sleep on them. Fetched Sam to her friend's house at Almaden (30 mins drive) at 10.30am and when Ken was done with the carpets, went out to fetch Sam and then head off to CSF to practice tennis (Sam's off school today as it's a holiday at VCS). Sam's doc has given Sam the ok to go back to tennis practice and her coach is mad to put her up for a game the minute she returns (and without any practice since she sprained her ankle till now) on Tue. In a way, can't blame him too coz he doesn't have enough players on the team, just "ngum-ngum." Finished tennis and came home at 5.30pm, ate an early dinner and then, called my savior and CK was great, as usual. He fixed my laptop whilst I clean the house. Didn't finish till 11.30pm. Was dead tired but didn't sleep too well coz night was chilly and I had the windows opened. Tossing and turning the whole night thru.
22 Sept - Sent Sam to school by 7.30am and head off straight to CSF. My BALL match starts at 9.30am but I was at CSF by 8.30am. A guy by the name of Thomas invited me to stroke with him and I did. Within 1/2 an hour, I tire him out with all my corner shots and he gave up. Thanked me for playing with him and said my shots were good and he sweated so, objective gained and I was all nice and warmed up for my BALL match by then.T4, win-win situation for both of us, that's good.
My partner for BALL today is Hoai and we played against Fran and Avis from Walnut Creek RC. Our opponents are senior players and tho they can't run, man, they sure can place the ball extremely well. Their balls are mostly midcourt coz they want to avoid me poaching and volleying and so Hoai hit lots of balls today and ran a lot too. The opponent's shots were kinda loopy and high but not enough for us to smash it down and not low enough for a groundy and it was without pace. That really threw both of us off and we made a lot of unforced errors in the 1st set. Was lucky to win it in tiebreak 7-3. In the 2nd set, told Hoai that we need to be patient and shot selection is ultimate in order to get around them. Return as many balls to them as possible and move them and that brought us through the 2nd set with a 6-2 win. And to cap it all, Fran said I was only 20 yrs old and that's why I could run so fast. If only, she knew, hahaha!
That's me and Hoai on our way out after winning our match 7-6, 6-2 against Walnut Creek RC.
Friday, September 18, 2009
25 June - 2 August 2009
This is probably the 1st curve ball I am throwing at you all coz this update is backdating to 2 months ago. It will appear on Fb in September coz that is the date I publish it. T4, don't be puzzled...
25 June - This is a sad day for the entertainment industry as Farah Fawcett and Michael Jackson passed away. What a great loss for America and I was shocked esp with MJ coz he seemed so young and too talented to leave the world so soon. We will miss both of them dearly coz I remembered I was definitely a fan of Farah with her billowy hairstyle.
27 June - Played for Sandy's 3.5 team and won 7-5, 6-4. This was a tough match coz the opponents stack their line-ups, which means, their #1 doubles is not necessarily their strongest line. And Hanna and me played the 3rd line-up. Hanna got yelled at by the opponent when she hit her on the forehead with a return of serve. Both of us went to the net and asked if she's ok and she glared at us and screamed, "You hit me on the forehead, what do you think?" Both of us were taken aback and her partner asked us to give her 5 mins to recompose which we did. Incidentally, after they lost the 1st set 7-5, the opponent did apologize for her outburst and when Hanna hit her again a 2nd time in the 2nd set, she didn't scold us.
5 July - Played for CH's 3.0 team against Pleasanton Park and won 6-4, 0-2 (retired) coz opponent's player had severe cramps. I partnered Emily Sah for the 1st time and clearly, didn't play well and couldn't hit the ball as hard as I'd like to coz it was windy on the outdoor court. I hate playing with or against the win. Anyway, the team lost that day although we won our match.
9 July - Played mixed doubles match partnering Richard against Ed Reyes/Colleen. Richard gave Ed a short ball and he ran up to retrieve it and when I saw Ed running to the net, my brain said run but my legs won't obey. That was when I got hit by the ball on the corner of my left eye. There was such a loud thud on impact but thankfully, it missed the eye. An incident report was filed by the Club and Colleen was really nice and brought ice for me to bring any swelling down. Amazingly, there was no bruises nor was there any swelling. I guess the ego was the only thing that hurts :-(
12 July - Played for Thuy's 3.5 team in Milpitas partnering Kathy Hopkins. Won the match 6-2, 6-1. Kathy is like 5'10" tall so, she was inpenetratetable at the net and won many points there. For me, I covered the baseline and today, hit pretty well in spite of playing outdoors with windy conditions and all. Hmm...maybe this is a start of something good.
14 July - Today is a sad day coz I just got an email from the USTA saying that I have been DQ-ed in the 3.0 women's category and with immediate effect, been bumped up to a 3.5 rating. Oh, that sucks coz it means that all my matches I have played on my 3.0 team (which is 3wins zero losses) will be reversed to having lost 0-6, 0-6. But, it doesn't affect the 4w 0 losses for my 3.5 team, phew. Don't know if I should be happy or sad but que sera sera. Life goes on. This is tennis after all. I guess I am good enough after all to be bumped up although not exactly the nicest way by getting DQ-ed.
21 July - Was informed by mom that the orthopedic surgeon at GH has scheduled her for her kneecap replacement surgery to be performed on Aug 4. Quickly called SQ and got waitlisted for my flight home. Ed was nice to send me home so that I can help take care of mom post surgery.
22 July - Amazingly SQ flights confirmed. Praise be to God coz this is the shortest time that I've waitlisted for their flight and got confirmation so quickly. Was so excited to tell mom that I'll be coming home soon ie. flying off on Aug 3, eta Penang, Aug 4.
23 July - Another amazing thing happened today. Both my racquet strings broke one after the other and I had no racquets to use after that, hahaha. Feels good to break two tho!
27 July - Watched the Bank of the West Classic tennis tournament held at Stanford. Match between Maria Sharapova vs Ai Sugiyama. Was indeed a thrilling match as Maria was taken to 3 sets b4 beating Ai. Score: 6-4, 6-7, 6-1. I guess Ai ran out of steam in the 3rd.
28 July - Watched the Bank of the West Classic tennis tournament with Emily today at 11am. Man, the weather was hot and we were literally baking in the hot sun. Match was Hantuchova vs Wosniack which Hantuchova won 6-4, 4-6, 7-5. We didn't stay till the end of the match coz the weather was unbearable and we carpooled and Em need to leave by 1pm to fetch her boys from activities.
It's not just the tennis we watch, but I noticed Hantuchova's Nike apparel is very nice. Hmm...maybe will get it online from tenniswarehouse.com
This is A Wozniack. She is not as consistent as Hantuchova but her serves are more penetrating. Took this picture to try and emulate her serving motion.
30 July - 2 Aug - In Reno for Sam's bowling tournament. These are her scores:
Doubles with Ty - 582 pinfalls - average 194
Doubles with Marty - 595 pinfalls - average 199
Team Manteca-Perez - 581 pinfalls - average 194
Team with Marty/Ty/Anna/Sam - 543 pinfalls - avg 181
Team with Leon/Chris/Yannick/Sam - 477 pinfalls - avg 159
The 1st day's score on 31 July outweighs the scores of 1 Aug. I think the lane conditions on the 2nd day was much much tougher. Sam originally was only supposed to bowl 3 events ie. 2 doubles and 1 team but turned out, she bowled 5 events. All in all, it was a good bowling experience for her.
2 Aug - Got terribly sick in the car on the drive home from Reno to SJC. I think it was the decaf coffee or the milk in the coffee coz I suffered from severe stomach cramps, cold sweat and had to helped out of the car by Sveta. Nearly fainted in the restroom if not for Sveta's help. Thanks dearie. After defecating, felt much better. Gotta get well soon coz I have a trip tonight to go home to Penang and I am so excited about it.
25 June - This is a sad day for the entertainment industry as Farah Fawcett and Michael Jackson passed away. What a great loss for America and I was shocked esp with MJ coz he seemed so young and too talented to leave the world so soon. We will miss both of them dearly coz I remembered I was definitely a fan of Farah with her billowy hairstyle.
27 June - Played for Sandy's 3.5 team and won 7-5, 6-4. This was a tough match coz the opponents stack their line-ups, which means, their #1 doubles is not necessarily their strongest line. And Hanna and me played the 3rd line-up. Hanna got yelled at by the opponent when she hit her on the forehead with a return of serve. Both of us went to the net and asked if she's ok and she glared at us and screamed, "You hit me on the forehead, what do you think?" Both of us were taken aback and her partner asked us to give her 5 mins to recompose which we did. Incidentally, after they lost the 1st set 7-5, the opponent did apologize for her outburst and when Hanna hit her again a 2nd time in the 2nd set, she didn't scold us.
5 July - Played for CH's 3.0 team against Pleasanton Park and won 6-4, 0-2 (retired) coz opponent's player had severe cramps. I partnered Emily Sah for the 1st time and clearly, didn't play well and couldn't hit the ball as hard as I'd like to coz it was windy on the outdoor court. I hate playing with or against the win. Anyway, the team lost that day although we won our match.
9 July - Played mixed doubles match partnering Richard against Ed Reyes/Colleen. Richard gave Ed a short ball and he ran up to retrieve it and when I saw Ed running to the net, my brain said run but my legs won't obey. That was when I got hit by the ball on the corner of my left eye. There was such a loud thud on impact but thankfully, it missed the eye. An incident report was filed by the Club and Colleen was really nice and brought ice for me to bring any swelling down. Amazingly, there was no bruises nor was there any swelling. I guess the ego was the only thing that hurts :-(
12 July - Played for Thuy's 3.5 team in Milpitas partnering Kathy Hopkins. Won the match 6-2, 6-1. Kathy is like 5'10" tall so, she was inpenetratetable at the net and won many points there. For me, I covered the baseline and today, hit pretty well in spite of playing outdoors with windy conditions and all. Hmm...maybe this is a start of something good.
14 July - Today is a sad day coz I just got an email from the USTA saying that I have been DQ-ed in the 3.0 women's category and with immediate effect, been bumped up to a 3.5 rating. Oh, that sucks coz it means that all my matches I have played on my 3.0 team (which is 3wins zero losses) will be reversed to having lost 0-6, 0-6. But, it doesn't affect the 4w 0 losses for my 3.5 team, phew. Don't know if I should be happy or sad but que sera sera. Life goes on. This is tennis after all. I guess I am good enough after all to be bumped up although not exactly the nicest way by getting DQ-ed.
21 July - Was informed by mom that the orthopedic surgeon at GH has scheduled her for her kneecap replacement surgery to be performed on Aug 4. Quickly called SQ and got waitlisted for my flight home. Ed was nice to send me home so that I can help take care of mom post surgery.
22 July - Amazingly SQ flights confirmed. Praise be to God coz this is the shortest time that I've waitlisted for their flight and got confirmation so quickly. Was so excited to tell mom that I'll be coming home soon ie. flying off on Aug 3, eta Penang, Aug 4.
23 July - Another amazing thing happened today. Both my racquet strings broke one after the other and I had no racquets to use after that, hahaha. Feels good to break two tho!
27 July - Watched the Bank of the West Classic tennis tournament held at Stanford. Match between Maria Sharapova vs Ai Sugiyama. Was indeed a thrilling match as Maria was taken to 3 sets b4 beating Ai. Score: 6-4, 6-7, 6-1. I guess Ai ran out of steam in the 3rd.
28 July - Watched the Bank of the West Classic tennis tournament with Emily today at 11am. Man, the weather was hot and we were literally baking in the hot sun. Match was Hantuchova vs Wosniack which Hantuchova won 6-4, 4-6, 7-5. We didn't stay till the end of the match coz the weather was unbearable and we carpooled and Em need to leave by 1pm to fetch her boys from activities.
It's not just the tennis we watch, but I noticed Hantuchova's Nike apparel is very nice. Hmm...maybe will get it online from tenniswarehouse.com
This is A Wozniack. She is not as consistent as Hantuchova but her serves are more penetrating. Took this picture to try and emulate her serving motion.
30 July - 2 Aug - In Reno for Sam's bowling tournament. These are her scores:
Doubles with Ty - 582 pinfalls - average 194
Doubles with Marty - 595 pinfalls - average 199
Team Manteca-Perez - 581 pinfalls - average 194
Team with Marty/Ty/Anna/Sam - 543 pinfalls - avg 181
Team with Leon/Chris/Yannick/Sam - 477 pinfalls - avg 159
The 1st day's score on 31 July outweighs the scores of 1 Aug. I think the lane conditions on the 2nd day was much much tougher. Sam originally was only supposed to bowl 3 events ie. 2 doubles and 1 team but turned out, she bowled 5 events. All in all, it was a good bowling experience for her.
2 Aug - Got terribly sick in the car on the drive home from Reno to SJC. I think it was the decaf coffee or the milk in the coffee coz I suffered from severe stomach cramps, cold sweat and had to helped out of the car by Sveta. Nearly fainted in the restroom if not for Sveta's help. Thanks dearie. After defecating, felt much better. Gotta get well soon coz I have a trip tonight to go home to Penang and I am so excited about it.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
20 - 21 June 2009
Checked out of Movenpick Hotel and off to Chamonix we go. I am amazed that in 10 short days, we have traveled to 5 countries ie. London, Wales, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and France. Am glad I did it now that I still able bodied and full of stamina. Not sure if I can do that in another year or two as age creeps up.
Anyway, we took the car to the gas station to have it filled. Asked the pump attendant if he knew how to get to the highway as we wanted to go to Chamonix. His English is so-so and at the speed I am asking questions, he asked me to slow down and so, I did. Finally, he got one of his customers to direct us to the highway which was actually pretty simple and we were on our way.
Chamonix is in France and is about 1 hour's drive from Geneva, about 50 miles (75km) from Geneva airport. When we passed the immigration check point, we saw this booth that said, "Currency Exchange." We thought it was strange to have a currency exchange booth b4 the check point and we drove on. And just as we passed through the check point, we realized we are on a highway that we have to pay toll (A40 motorway) and then, it struck Ed that, oh gosh, the currency used in France is no longer Swiss Francs but Euro. No wonder there was a currency exchange booth. Now, we are stuck coz we had no Euros on us and toll gates are coming up. I told him perhaps he should pull over and I go use my womanly charm and see if they will accept anything else other than Euros (USD perhaps). But, Ed said no need and hope there was credit card and phew, they do accept credit cards.
We arrived in good time at Chamonix, and went to the town center where there was a farmers market and we changed some Euros at a local currency exchange stall.
This is the farmers market. Very lau juak.
Chamonix is located in a spectacular valley in the French Alps. If you like skiing (this is the oldest and largest ski resort), this is THE place to be.
I was hungry and sat down for breakfast here. The air is so clean and crisp, it's nice to soak it all in.
Notice the glacier in the background of this picture. It was unfortunate that we had a flight to catch from Geneva back to Washington DC and therefore, we couldn't take the cable car up to Mont-Blanc (Europe's highest peak). Otherwise, it would've been nicer coz the round trip ride will take approximately 1.5 hours and we don't have enough time to spare. Definitely will come back again in the future for skiing.
And, if you like cheese and chocolates, the town center shops has all these to offer and more! Here's more pics to share with you.
And so, we bid adieu to Chamonix, hope to return to see her again some day. We drove back to Geneva airport, returned our car rental and wait for our onward flight from Geneva to Washington DC. Our flight went without a hitch. We stayed 1 night at Hilton in Virginia and then picked up Sam from her conference at Sheraton Tyson's Corner and head for home sweet home on 21 June 2009.
Sam had a blast at her NYLC Conference and was sick after 10 days of running around, waking up early and going to bed late. Some of the conference participants lost their laptops and some, their iPods and cameras. Sadly, security wasn't that great at Sheraton but we praise God that all of Sam's laptop, iPod and cameras were intact. Her friend Eugene who traveled with us together lost his laptop. Oh well...good things come and good things go. Most importantly, everyone had their own fun. And we did.....
Anyway, we took the car to the gas station to have it filled. Asked the pump attendant if he knew how to get to the highway as we wanted to go to Chamonix. His English is so-so and at the speed I am asking questions, he asked me to slow down and so, I did. Finally, he got one of his customers to direct us to the highway which was actually pretty simple and we were on our way.
Chamonix is in France and is about 1 hour's drive from Geneva, about 50 miles (75km) from Geneva airport. When we passed the immigration check point, we saw this booth that said, "Currency Exchange." We thought it was strange to have a currency exchange booth b4 the check point and we drove on. And just as we passed through the check point, we realized we are on a highway that we have to pay toll (A40 motorway) and then, it struck Ed that, oh gosh, the currency used in France is no longer Swiss Francs but Euro. No wonder there was a currency exchange booth. Now, we are stuck coz we had no Euros on us and toll gates are coming up. I told him perhaps he should pull over and I go use my womanly charm and see if they will accept anything else other than Euros (USD perhaps). But, Ed said no need and hope there was credit card and phew, they do accept credit cards.
We arrived in good time at Chamonix, and went to the town center where there was a farmers market and we changed some Euros at a local currency exchange stall.
This is the farmers market. Very lau juak.
Chamonix is located in a spectacular valley in the French Alps. If you like skiing (this is the oldest and largest ski resort), this is THE place to be.
I was hungry and sat down for breakfast here. The air is so clean and crisp, it's nice to soak it all in.
Notice the glacier in the background of this picture. It was unfortunate that we had a flight to catch from Geneva back to Washington DC and therefore, we couldn't take the cable car up to Mont-Blanc (Europe's highest peak). Otherwise, it would've been nicer coz the round trip ride will take approximately 1.5 hours and we don't have enough time to spare. Definitely will come back again in the future for skiing.
And, if you like cheese and chocolates, the town center shops has all these to offer and more! Here's more pics to share with you.
And so, we bid adieu to Chamonix, hope to return to see her again some day. We drove back to Geneva airport, returned our car rental and wait for our onward flight from Geneva to Washington DC. Our flight went without a hitch. We stayed 1 night at Hilton in Virginia and then picked up Sam from her conference at Sheraton Tyson's Corner and head for home sweet home on 21 June 2009.
Sam had a blast at her NYLC Conference and was sick after 10 days of running around, waking up early and going to bed late. Some of the conference participants lost their laptops and some, their iPods and cameras. Sadly, security wasn't that great at Sheraton but we praise God that all of Sam's laptop, iPod and cameras were intact. Her friend Eugene who traveled with us together lost his laptop. Oh well...good things come and good things go. Most importantly, everyone had their own fun. And we did.....
19 June 2009
Ed left for work early in the morning while I slept in. For once, I feel like I am on holiday coz no need to rush from airport to airport and from hotel to hotel. But, my slumber was roughly awakened by the sound of drilling and knocking coz the hotel was having some renovation work done on the upper floors. Just my luck....
Wanted to go downstairs for breakfast but was too late coz it was past 10am. So, got ready to head down to town by myself and go jalan-jalan in downtown Geneva. Took the shuttle bus from the hotel to the airport and took the express train from airport straight to downtown. Whilst waiting for the shuttle bus, I was looking at the map and charting the course I wanted to take and marking down what I wanted to see and do and there was this kind French guy who was kind enough to volunteer his help and showed me what are the must see and do. And, he quipped, "if all things fail, if you can wait for me, I'll take you there myself." To which I laughingly said, "thanks, I think I can handle it."
Over here in Geneva, most people speak French so, am quite lost at the airport coz didn't know which platform to go to for the train ride downtown. Asked the station master and he muttered incorrigibly in English and point point point. I guess sign language works best in this instance, hahaha. The train ride to downtown is only 1 stop.
This is the beautiful fountain called Le Jet d'Eau in the middle of Lake Geneva. It was a sight to behold as I stand there in awe of its beauty. Luckily for me, I took this photo and after that went about my tour coz when I came back to it 2 hours later, the fountain was actually turned off.
This is the Basilica of Notre Dame which I come across in downtown Geneva. Beautiful church from the outside and inside. Was actually inside the basilica marveling at the gothic architecture and vivid colors of the stained glass depicting Catholic saints.
And from the pictures above, you can see that all the buildings are very nice. All of them facing Lake Geneva. I dare not even enter any of the shops in case they have a dress code of some sort and I am in jeans and t-shirt.
Downtown Geneva is a shopper's paradise. One can find all kinds of brand names in this town. Only problem is whether one has money. And talking about money. I was so embarrassed coz I thought I wanted some extra cash just in case I am in the mood for shopping and so, when I saw this huge HSBC bank, I was elated. Walked in there and saw this guy in a black jacket sitting very confidently over the counter and I told him I wanted to withdraw some money. He looked surprised at me and then said, "Oh, we only accept cash deposits. No withdrawals here. If you need an atm, it is outside a block away and you'll find the machine there." You should have seen my face blushed red. I forgot I was in Switzerland where people here are rich and t4, they don't withdraw money, they only put in money, geez!
After walking around a fair bit, got hungry coz didn't eat breakfast this morning. Decided to go to this food court and guess what I ate? Rice! finally. It was lunch time and that place was packed. After lunch, walked around and
took some more pictures. Frankly, if you don't like shopping, Geneva old downtown is not the place to be and clearly, I came home without a shopping bag so, that explains why I didn't enjoy Geneva as much as I did Zurich.
Took a train back and at night, Ed took me to a French restaurant that was really jam packed with people. It was drizzling a little but we managed to walk around with the umbrella. Food was excellent and the place was abuzz with people. I enjoyed the French food and wine and it was indeed a good ending to a great holiday. Tomorrow, we head off to Chamonix, France.
Wanted to go downstairs for breakfast but was too late coz it was past 10am. So, got ready to head down to town by myself and go jalan-jalan in downtown Geneva. Took the shuttle bus from the hotel to the airport and took the express train from airport straight to downtown. Whilst waiting for the shuttle bus, I was looking at the map and charting the course I wanted to take and marking down what I wanted to see and do and there was this kind French guy who was kind enough to volunteer his help and showed me what are the must see and do. And, he quipped, "if all things fail, if you can wait for me, I'll take you there myself." To which I laughingly said, "thanks, I think I can handle it."
Over here in Geneva, most people speak French so, am quite lost at the airport coz didn't know which platform to go to for the train ride downtown. Asked the station master and he muttered incorrigibly in English and point point point. I guess sign language works best in this instance, hahaha. The train ride to downtown is only 1 stop.
This is the beautiful fountain called Le Jet d'Eau in the middle of Lake Geneva. It was a sight to behold as I stand there in awe of its beauty. Luckily for me, I took this photo and after that went about my tour coz when I came back to it 2 hours later, the fountain was actually turned off.
This is the Basilica of Notre Dame which I come across in downtown Geneva. Beautiful church from the outside and inside. Was actually inside the basilica marveling at the gothic architecture and vivid colors of the stained glass depicting Catholic saints.
And from the pictures above, you can see that all the buildings are very nice. All of them facing Lake Geneva. I dare not even enter any of the shops in case they have a dress code of some sort and I am in jeans and t-shirt.
Downtown Geneva is a shopper's paradise. One can find all kinds of brand names in this town. Only problem is whether one has money. And talking about money. I was so embarrassed coz I thought I wanted some extra cash just in case I am in the mood for shopping and so, when I saw this huge HSBC bank, I was elated. Walked in there and saw this guy in a black jacket sitting very confidently over the counter and I told him I wanted to withdraw some money. He looked surprised at me and then said, "Oh, we only accept cash deposits. No withdrawals here. If you need an atm, it is outside a block away and you'll find the machine there." You should have seen my face blushed red. I forgot I was in Switzerland where people here are rich and t4, they don't withdraw money, they only put in money, geez!
After walking around a fair bit, got hungry coz didn't eat breakfast this morning. Decided to go to this food court and guess what I ate? Rice! finally. It was lunch time and that place was packed. After lunch, walked around and
took some more pictures. Frankly, if you don't like shopping, Geneva old downtown is not the place to be and clearly, I came home without a shopping bag so, that explains why I didn't enjoy Geneva as much as I did Zurich.
Took a train back and at night, Ed took me to a French restaurant that was really jam packed with people. It was drizzling a little but we managed to walk around with the umbrella. Food was excellent and the place was abuzz with people. I enjoyed the French food and wine and it was indeed a good ending to a great holiday. Tomorrow, we head off to Chamonix, France.
13 Sept - 16 Sept 2009
13 Sept - I won my 1st doubles 6.5 combo tennis match today against Ruby Hill. I partnered Xiao Lu and won 6-1, 6-0. We played #3 doubles and although didn't serve too well, hit a couple of volleys into the net, smash a couple into the net too, had 1 double fault, it turned out well in the end. Not too bad a start for my debut in the 6.5 team. Next match, 9/27 will be against Pleasanton Park which will be a tougher game. Our team is still #1 in the ranking, yipee!
After the match, didn't even stay back for lunch but rushed home to watch the Novak/Roger's semi final match. Was quite a dampener coz Novak couldn't play his "A" game but I think he had fun trying to beat the world's #1 player and again, Roger won.
Today and tomorrow, I will be talking nothing but tennis due to the US Open tournament. Did you all see Serena's outburst against the lines woman who called a foot fault on her in her semi-final match against Kim Clijsters? Oh...that was bad and I am quite ashamed to say that I was actually rooting for her. She was clearly out of line with her expletives, rude and unsportsmanlike. She deserves to lose the point and match. And to add to my anger, at the post interview, Serena wasn't a wee bit remorseful about her attitude on court. Was arrogant and from then on, I decided that from now on, no more rooting for Serena Williams no matter how great a player she is and will be. I totally am on the side with the commentators who said that the USTA only fined her US$10,500 for her expletives and racquet smashing and that penalty is way way too mild. The USTA should have suspended her doubles finals too although it wasn't fair to V. Come on...for a person who earns $23 million alone (and that is not taking into consideration the numerous endorsements she has in the market place), $10,500 is peanuts. Anyway, Serena and V won their doubles match and then went on publicly to apologize to the lines woman, Kim and her fans. To me that's too late coz I think that was the condition meted out by the USTA in allowing them to play their doubles final match. It was not a sincere apology and was all a "sandiwara." Clearly, I was disappointed in Serena's attitude but, am very happy for Kim to win the US Open 2009 coz she was deserving as she played well against Caroline Wozniacki and it also gives married women like me a slight ray of hope that we can still beat those young unmarried ladies out there. Go Kim....hope there will be many more for you to come.
14 Sept - Housekeeping day but was very hardworking and started early at 7.30am coz I want to finish early enough to watch the men's singles final match at 1.30pm. The finals was good with Roger leading 2 sets to 1 but in the 4th set and 5th, clearly Roger wasn't in his usual top form coz he had 11 double faults which is uncanny of him as usually his aces outweighs his dbl faults. And DelPo played great tennis with his unfailing hard serves which Roger couldn't take. And DelPo played smart and has improved significantly in his movement around the court. And eventually, DelPo got the better of Roger and romped home with a win at the US Open. I was so glad DelPo won coz finally, can see a new face in tennis rather than good 'ol Roger's face all the time.
15 Sept - Went out to play tennis with Taemi/Li Lin and Cindy. Partnered Cindy and won 7-5 and then partnered Taemi and won 6-3. It was a fun match with both partners and I had fun. Was about to leave but CH Shek (my 3.0 captain) caught me and asked me to replace him coz he had to run in the midst of their practice. So, I joined Phyllis against Xiao Lu/May and we lost 5-7. Why? Because yours truly was tired, impatient and Xiao Lu and May kept lobbing and I wanted to end the point quickly thus, resulting in killing my own self and lost the match eventually, grr! Lesson to be learnt : BE PATIENT.... Hmmm.. that's never been my forte but gotta learn I know.
16 Sept - Was supposed to play with Richard but he couldn't make it as he's got to take Andy to the hospital for his follow up check at Stanford Hospital. I took the opportunity to finish my paperwork and attend to stuff that I kept procrastinating about. Very productive day I must say.
After the match, didn't even stay back for lunch but rushed home to watch the Novak/Roger's semi final match. Was quite a dampener coz Novak couldn't play his "A" game but I think he had fun trying to beat the world's #1 player and again, Roger won.
Today and tomorrow, I will be talking nothing but tennis due to the US Open tournament. Did you all see Serena's outburst against the lines woman who called a foot fault on her in her semi-final match against Kim Clijsters? Oh...that was bad and I am quite ashamed to say that I was actually rooting for her. She was clearly out of line with her expletives, rude and unsportsmanlike. She deserves to lose the point and match. And to add to my anger, at the post interview, Serena wasn't a wee bit remorseful about her attitude on court. Was arrogant and from then on, I decided that from now on, no more rooting for Serena Williams no matter how great a player she is and will be. I totally am on the side with the commentators who said that the USTA only fined her US$10,500 for her expletives and racquet smashing and that penalty is way way too mild. The USTA should have suspended her doubles finals too although it wasn't fair to V. Come on...for a person who earns $23 million alone (and that is not taking into consideration the numerous endorsements she has in the market place), $10,500 is peanuts. Anyway, Serena and V won their doubles match and then went on publicly to apologize to the lines woman, Kim and her fans. To me that's too late coz I think that was the condition meted out by the USTA in allowing them to play their doubles final match. It was not a sincere apology and was all a "sandiwara." Clearly, I was disappointed in Serena's attitude but, am very happy for Kim to win the US Open 2009 coz she was deserving as she played well against Caroline Wozniacki and it also gives married women like me a slight ray of hope that we can still beat those young unmarried ladies out there. Go Kim....hope there will be many more for you to come.
14 Sept - Housekeeping day but was very hardworking and started early at 7.30am coz I want to finish early enough to watch the men's singles final match at 1.30pm. The finals was good with Roger leading 2 sets to 1 but in the 4th set and 5th, clearly Roger wasn't in his usual top form coz he had 11 double faults which is uncanny of him as usually his aces outweighs his dbl faults. And DelPo played great tennis with his unfailing hard serves which Roger couldn't take. And DelPo played smart and has improved significantly in his movement around the court. And eventually, DelPo got the better of Roger and romped home with a win at the US Open. I was so glad DelPo won coz finally, can see a new face in tennis rather than good 'ol Roger's face all the time.
15 Sept - Went out to play tennis with Taemi/Li Lin and Cindy. Partnered Cindy and won 7-5 and then partnered Taemi and won 6-3. It was a fun match with both partners and I had fun. Was about to leave but CH Shek (my 3.0 captain) caught me and asked me to replace him coz he had to run in the midst of their practice. So, I joined Phyllis against Xiao Lu/May and we lost 5-7. Why? Because yours truly was tired, impatient and Xiao Lu and May kept lobbing and I wanted to end the point quickly thus, resulting in killing my own self and lost the match eventually, grr! Lesson to be learnt : BE PATIENT.... Hmmm.. that's never been my forte but gotta learn I know.
16 Sept - Was supposed to play with Richard but he couldn't make it as he's got to take Andy to the hospital for his follow up check at Stanford Hospital. I took the opportunity to finish my paperwork and attend to stuff that I kept procrastinating about. Very productive day I must say.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
30 August - 12 September 2009
After the inital hype of school starting on Aug 24, Sam's beginning to feel the heat of being loaded with so much homework and was finding it hard to cope with all the new subjects she's taking. I think it's more the routine of getting back to hardwork coz the 3 months of summer hols has somewhat spoilt the momentum. Go Sam go! Jia Yu...
Looking forward to Labor Day weekend where we will have 3 days off from work and school from 5-7 Sept. Not doing much except rest rest rest. That's all I need for now coz since coming back from Penang, have not been resting well. Also, looking forward to watching the US Open which starts Aug 31 till Sept 13.
2 Sept - Sam sprained her left ankle during tennis practice at school today. She was crying as it was really painful. Wasn't sure if she broke any bones so, went home to put her stuff at home and then off to the ER at Regional Medical Center. We spent 3.5 hours sitting around waiting for xrays to be done and thankfully, at the end of it all, no broken bones. Sam had to be on crutches for the next week or so and definitely, no tennis or bowling. What a drag!
7 Sept - Went to see Sam's physician Dr Trang Tran to confirm if she can start on light tennis workout but, no such luck. Big tears rolled down her cheeks when Dr Tran said there's no such possibility coz when Sam moved her ankle laterally, it still hurts. Sam felt like she's letting her school team down coz she's been scheduled by her tennis coach to play 2nd singles against Mitty and now, without any practices, she's gotta forfeit that game. Oh well, I told her to look at the big picture and not hurry coz sprained ankle doesn't heal quickly and if she goes back in too much of a rush, she may re-injure it and that will be the end of her tennis or bowling. She's been obedient thus far although not very happy with it. Next follow up check will be Friday, 9/18 and we hope there'll be good news to share with all of you out there.
Other than that, sad news to hear that Alisa has passed away on Sat morning after a long battle with brain cancer. Our heartfelt condolences to Belinda and Ted Harvey as well as to Eddy and Ethan. Alisa is Belinda's daughter in law and Belinda is my best friend. The memorial service will be held in Arcata, 5-6 hours drive from San Jose on 19 Sept. Our prayers are with them.
This whole week, have been playing lots of tennis and trying to play catch up but body is acting up and retaliating. As I am writing this on Sat, 9/12, both legs' hamstrings are tight and shoulder is feeling the strain from all the serves I have been practising of late. Hope that when I play my 6.5 combo match tomorrow, my body will hold up. Prayers will be needed for sure.
Am still rooting for Serena to win the US Open women's singles but Kim Clijsters looks fresh and is hitting the ball clean. So, I am somewhat having my reservations that Serena can pull this out of the bag. Keeping all my fingers and intestines crossed, hahaha...
Looking forward to Labor Day weekend where we will have 3 days off from work and school from 5-7 Sept. Not doing much except rest rest rest. That's all I need for now coz since coming back from Penang, have not been resting well. Also, looking forward to watching the US Open which starts Aug 31 till Sept 13.
2 Sept - Sam sprained her left ankle during tennis practice at school today. She was crying as it was really painful. Wasn't sure if she broke any bones so, went home to put her stuff at home and then off to the ER at Regional Medical Center. We spent 3.5 hours sitting around waiting for xrays to be done and thankfully, at the end of it all, no broken bones. Sam had to be on crutches for the next week or so and definitely, no tennis or bowling. What a drag!
7 Sept - Went to see Sam's physician Dr Trang Tran to confirm if she can start on light tennis workout but, no such luck. Big tears rolled down her cheeks when Dr Tran said there's no such possibility coz when Sam moved her ankle laterally, it still hurts. Sam felt like she's letting her school team down coz she's been scheduled by her tennis coach to play 2nd singles against Mitty and now, without any practices, she's gotta forfeit that game. Oh well, I told her to look at the big picture and not hurry coz sprained ankle doesn't heal quickly and if she goes back in too much of a rush, she may re-injure it and that will be the end of her tennis or bowling. She's been obedient thus far although not very happy with it. Next follow up check will be Friday, 9/18 and we hope there'll be good news to share with all of you out there.
Other than that, sad news to hear that Alisa has passed away on Sat morning after a long battle with brain cancer. Our heartfelt condolences to Belinda and Ted Harvey as well as to Eddy and Ethan. Alisa is Belinda's daughter in law and Belinda is my best friend. The memorial service will be held in Arcata, 5-6 hours drive from San Jose on 19 Sept. Our prayers are with them.
This whole week, have been playing lots of tennis and trying to play catch up but body is acting up and retaliating. As I am writing this on Sat, 9/12, both legs' hamstrings are tight and shoulder is feeling the strain from all the serves I have been practising of late. Hope that when I play my 6.5 combo match tomorrow, my body will hold up. Prayers will be needed for sure.
Am still rooting for Serena to win the US Open women's singles but Kim Clijsters looks fresh and is hitting the ball clean. So, I am somewhat having my reservations that Serena can pull this out of the bag. Keeping all my fingers and intestines crossed, hahaha...
Saturday, August 29, 2009
24 Aug - 29 August 2009
24 Aug - A new school term starts today, yipee for Sam and yipee for me too. This year, Sam's taking Honors Chemistry, AP Euro History, English Honors, Bible, Spanish I, Music/Worship Band B and Algebra Honors. All pretty tough subjects for Sam coz they are all totally new to her. But, with hardwork and lots of prayer, the Lord will see her through. No tennis today coz no one wants to play with me, sob! sob!
25 Aug - 1st day back at tennis. Played doubles with Mary Nunes/Jaya/Yodi. Still having trouble with stepping into the ball on my left foot as my timing's all wrong and having trouble adjusting to my semi-western grip. But, the serves are coming in pretty solid so, that's good. Broke my racquet strings today, sigh. Talk about bad timing coz had it broke in Penang, would have cost me less money to get it restrung. Over here, restringing with my own strings costs US$12. Oh well, can't have things going my way all the time...
26 Aug - Played tennis with RR today. It was good to be able to play with him as he hits with pace and I loved that. Today's a pretty hot day with temperatures in the high 80 F. Poor Sam must be basking in the sun for her tennis training. Poor Sam has training everyday from 2.30-5pm, rain or shine (half the time, it doesn't rain here, that's why we're suffering from drought. Oh rain...where art thou when we needed u most?).
27 Aug - No tennis again? Oh no....Well, gotta cancel my lessons with Larry coz the window cleaners are coming by at 7am and they won't finish the job till 11am. In a way, it was good. I was able to finish most of my paperwork and updated my blog. Had the Old Town Teh Tarik this morning for breakfast. The after effect of being "allergic" to caffeine is not too good coz the whole day, I felt queezy and uncomfortable. OK, no more teh tariks for a while, sigh. What a drag!
28 Aug - A very tiring day for Sam and me. I played 9 rounds of doubles matches today at BALL practice. We all had to play with different partners with each player serving once. I am so very happy that out of the 9 rounds, I won 8 and even the match I lost, I held serve so, that's a good thing (I hope). With all the excitement for tennis, any thoughts of eating breakfast went out the window and I totally forgot about eating until I reached Belinda's house to give her the jiu hoo see, Cote D'or and curry fish. I was wondering why my stomach was making all the funny noises. Now, I know. Went home and cook lunch of fried char choi and bah kut teh. Ms H'ng gave me 2 packs of the Klang bah kut teh and it was really good. Fetch Sam from tennis at 5pm, took her back to main campus to get her Chemistry book coz last minute, her teacher assigned homework, which luckily, her friend told her about it. Came home close to 5.40pm so that she can take her bath and eat her dinner and rush out to bowling training at 6.30pm. Ed was nice to tag along to accompany me. Reached Homestead at 6.53pm, went to Home Depot to buy my watering can coz needed that to water the lemongrass plant which Belinda gave me (thanks BB) and saw Tim, the beekeeper who incidentally, was clearing a beehive just outside the tree of Homestead Lanes. He did it very professionally without the bees flying everywhere and when he finally took the hive down, it was actually nestled nicely into a box and the fascinating thing is that, the bees didn't fly away at all. I told Tim that this is the 1st time I've seen a bee terminator at work but he corrected me and said he's a keeper, not a terminator. Whoops...ok, I am learning! So, I guess his family will be happy that there will be more honey in the offing!
29 Aug - Today is the position round for Sam's Summer League. Her team came in 4th. Anna, Jen and Sam tried very hard but, it was not meant to be. Sam bowled not too badly with scores of 220, 182 and 177, hitting an average of 193 today. She was very tired in the 2nd game onwards and her body language shows. Last night, she went to bed crying coz she didn't understand the concepts of Chemistry and that frustrates the heck out of her. That must've caused her sleepless nights thus, causing her to lose concentration in her bowling today. Well, Sam, advice for you - school's always difficult the first few weeks coz all subjects are new, teachers are new and classmates are new too. U gotta hang in there, stop complaining and PERSEVERE and work around it. Then, you'll ace it in no time. Shou Kham is visiting me today after her trip to Gilroy, yipee!
25 Aug - 1st day back at tennis. Played doubles with Mary Nunes/Jaya/Yodi. Still having trouble with stepping into the ball on my left foot as my timing's all wrong and having trouble adjusting to my semi-western grip. But, the serves are coming in pretty solid so, that's good. Broke my racquet strings today, sigh. Talk about bad timing coz had it broke in Penang, would have cost me less money to get it restrung. Over here, restringing with my own strings costs US$12. Oh well, can't have things going my way all the time...
26 Aug - Played tennis with RR today. It was good to be able to play with him as he hits with pace and I loved that. Today's a pretty hot day with temperatures in the high 80 F. Poor Sam must be basking in the sun for her tennis training. Poor Sam has training everyday from 2.30-5pm, rain or shine (half the time, it doesn't rain here, that's why we're suffering from drought. Oh rain...where art thou when we needed u most?).
27 Aug - No tennis again? Oh no....Well, gotta cancel my lessons with Larry coz the window cleaners are coming by at 7am and they won't finish the job till 11am. In a way, it was good. I was able to finish most of my paperwork and updated my blog. Had the Old Town Teh Tarik this morning for breakfast. The after effect of being "allergic" to caffeine is not too good coz the whole day, I felt queezy and uncomfortable. OK, no more teh tariks for a while, sigh. What a drag!
28 Aug - A very tiring day for Sam and me. I played 9 rounds of doubles matches today at BALL practice. We all had to play with different partners with each player serving once. I am so very happy that out of the 9 rounds, I won 8 and even the match I lost, I held serve so, that's a good thing (I hope). With all the excitement for tennis, any thoughts of eating breakfast went out the window and I totally forgot about eating until I reached Belinda's house to give her the jiu hoo see, Cote D'or and curry fish. I was wondering why my stomach was making all the funny noises. Now, I know. Went home and cook lunch of fried char choi and bah kut teh. Ms H'ng gave me 2 packs of the Klang bah kut teh and it was really good. Fetch Sam from tennis at 5pm, took her back to main campus to get her Chemistry book coz last minute, her teacher assigned homework, which luckily, her friend told her about it. Came home close to 5.40pm so that she can take her bath and eat her dinner and rush out to bowling training at 6.30pm. Ed was nice to tag along to accompany me. Reached Homestead at 6.53pm, went to Home Depot to buy my watering can coz needed that to water the lemongrass plant which Belinda gave me (thanks BB) and saw Tim, the beekeeper who incidentally, was clearing a beehive just outside the tree of Homestead Lanes. He did it very professionally without the bees flying everywhere and when he finally took the hive down, it was actually nestled nicely into a box and the fascinating thing is that, the bees didn't fly away at all. I told Tim that this is the 1st time I've seen a bee terminator at work but he corrected me and said he's a keeper, not a terminator. Whoops...ok, I am learning! So, I guess his family will be happy that there will be more honey in the offing!
29 Aug - Today is the position round for Sam's Summer League. Her team came in 4th. Anna, Jen and Sam tried very hard but, it was not meant to be. Sam bowled not too badly with scores of 220, 182 and 177, hitting an average of 193 today. She was very tired in the 2nd game onwards and her body language shows. Last night, she went to bed crying coz she didn't understand the concepts of Chemistry and that frustrates the heck out of her. That must've caused her sleepless nights thus, causing her to lose concentration in her bowling today. Well, Sam, advice for you - school's always difficult the first few weeks coz all subjects are new, teachers are new and classmates are new too. U gotta hang in there, stop complaining and PERSEVERE and work around it. Then, you'll ace it in no time. Shou Kham is visiting me today after her trip to Gilroy, yipee!
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Sun, 23 August 2009
Went for a nice breakfast and then head off to the Reno National Bowling Stadium for Sam's 1st All Star Scratch Tournament. Found out that the bantam and prep boys/girls will play the Pro-Am while the junior, major and senior bowlers do the scratch tournament. Sam had to play 4 games and the top 8 advances to the quarter finals.
Sam did pretty good with a total of 744 pinfalls (scores - 189, 176, 224, 155) coming in 5th. T4, she qualified for the quarterfinals (only top 8 bowlers advances). She had to play Ashley Ajimura in the quarters and she won to qualify for the semis. Of all bowlers she had to face in the semis is the top seeded bowler, Jennifer Eaves. I told Sam to just concentrate on her game and try not to be annihilated by Jennifer. Well, Sam kept her mental and romped home a good game to beat Jennifer Eaves when Jen missed a pin 10 spare in the 6th frame. So, this is the 1st final for Sam and she met a senior, Michelle Gratton. Sam bowled well and hung in there as much as possible. Was a little lacking in the luck department coz most of her pocket shots got her an 8 pinfall instead of her usual strike. Michelle bowled extremely well and was deserving of the win. Sam played a 184 game and we're proud of her that she tried her best, held her own mentally and rose to the occasion when she needed it most. She came in 2nd. This is the best result thus far in all her tournaments and we're so proud of her. Considering this was the best playing field featuring the best of the best from Northern California and the tough lane conditions today, we have every reason to be proud. 3 cheers for Sam....
We finally left Reno only at 3.30pm, got caught in an hour's traffic jam on I-80W due to a brush fire by the highway earlier on around lunch time. T4, traffic was backed up. Had Sam not qualify for the top 8 and had we left Reno earlier, we would have been stuck in a parking lot coz I-80W was closed down when the fire department tried to put out the fire. So, all in all, Sam's victory was also a blessing in disguise. Being stuck in a moving slow traffic jam is better than sitting in a parking lot jam for 2 hours. I was thankful Ed was driving and once in a while, I doze off as am tired, very tired by now. What a trip....praise God for journey mercies and HIS protection upon us.
Sam did pretty good with a total of 744 pinfalls (scores - 189, 176, 224, 155) coming in 5th. T4, she qualified for the quarterfinals (only top 8 bowlers advances). She had to play Ashley Ajimura in the quarters and she won to qualify for the semis. Of all bowlers she had to face in the semis is the top seeded bowler, Jennifer Eaves. I told Sam to just concentrate on her game and try not to be annihilated by Jennifer. Well, Sam kept her mental and romped home a good game to beat Jennifer Eaves when Jen missed a pin 10 spare in the 6th frame. So, this is the 1st final for Sam and she met a senior, Michelle Gratton. Sam bowled well and hung in there as much as possible. Was a little lacking in the luck department coz most of her pocket shots got her an 8 pinfall instead of her usual strike. Michelle bowled extremely well and was deserving of the win. Sam played a 184 game and we're proud of her that she tried her best, held her own mentally and rose to the occasion when she needed it most. She came in 2nd. This is the best result thus far in all her tournaments and we're so proud of her. Considering this was the best playing field featuring the best of the best from Northern California and the tough lane conditions today, we have every reason to be proud. 3 cheers for Sam....
We finally left Reno only at 3.30pm, got caught in an hour's traffic jam on I-80W due to a brush fire by the highway earlier on around lunch time. T4, traffic was backed up. Had Sam not qualify for the top 8 and had we left Reno earlier, we would have been stuck in a parking lot coz I-80W was closed down when the fire department tried to put out the fire. So, all in all, Sam's victory was also a blessing in disguise. Being stuck in a moving slow traffic jam is better than sitting in a parking lot jam for 2 hours. I was thankful Ed was driving and once in a while, I doze off as am tired, very tired by now. What a trip....praise God for journey mercies and HIS protection upon us.
Sat, 22 Aug 2009
Woke up at 5am. Jetlagged I was. Figured that since I can't sleep, might as well come downstairs to my office and do some paperwork. You should have seen my desk when I came home. I couldn't see any desk surface except paper here, there, everywhere!
Cleared and paid all my outstanding bills. Collated all the credit card charges and throw away all the unnecessary mailers. Didn't finish till almost 8am.
Ed was nice to prepare beef rendang and roti canai for me for breakfast. We left for Reno at 9am. Along the way, stopped at Virginia City, a small cowboy town. Sam threw up along the way coz she was texting on her mobile phone when Ed was cruising down the winding road. Lesson learnt eh Sam? We arrived in Reno around 3pm. Checked into Silver Legacy, took a short nap and then at 5pm, prepare ourselves for the dinner banquet.
The picture above is that of Virginia City in the background. It's a small cowboy town!
The dinner was buffet style. Food was so-so. I was jetlagged still. Felt sleepy all the time, tired, felt like dozing off during the speeches and didn't feel like talking at all. Sam's Rookie of the year award was the 1st of the many awards given out that night. For her effort, she got $100 as scholarship award. Dinner didn't finish till about 10.30pm and we didn't stay till the end. Too exhausted to force these eyes of mine to stay open....yawn!
Sam with her Rookie of the Year award posing with the other guy rookie and Sam showing off her scholarship certificate of $100. Yay! she's now richer by $100...
Sam posing with proud mommy. Nice picture!
This is Reno's largest National Bowling stadium that has 78 lanes. Thus far, the largest bowling alley I've seen. We loved it here, for bowling!
Cleared and paid all my outstanding bills. Collated all the credit card charges and throw away all the unnecessary mailers. Didn't finish till almost 8am.
Ed was nice to prepare beef rendang and roti canai for me for breakfast. We left for Reno at 9am. Along the way, stopped at Virginia City, a small cowboy town. Sam threw up along the way coz she was texting on her mobile phone when Ed was cruising down the winding road. Lesson learnt eh Sam? We arrived in Reno around 3pm. Checked into Silver Legacy, took a short nap and then at 5pm, prepare ourselves for the dinner banquet.
The picture above is that of Virginia City in the background. It's a small cowboy town!
The dinner was buffet style. Food was so-so. I was jetlagged still. Felt sleepy all the time, tired, felt like dozing off during the speeches and didn't feel like talking at all. Sam's Rookie of the year award was the 1st of the many awards given out that night. For her effort, she got $100 as scholarship award. Dinner didn't finish till about 10.30pm and we didn't stay till the end. Too exhausted to force these eyes of mine to stay open....yawn!
Sam with her Rookie of the Year award posing with the other guy rookie and Sam showing off her scholarship certificate of $100. Yay! she's now richer by $100...
Sam posing with proud mommy. Nice picture!
This is Reno's largest National Bowling stadium that has 78 lanes. Thus far, the largest bowling alley I've seen. We loved it here, for bowling!
Fri, 21 August 2009
Did not suffer much of a jetlag. Woke up at 5.30am and took my own sweet time to take bath, get my breakfast going and then, start on my housekeeping. Sam was nice to vacuum the house b4 I came home. Thanks for doing that Sam, appreciate it. But, upon closer look at the floor, realized that it hasn't been mopped as there are streaks and water droplets all over. So, out came my vacuum, broom, mop and magic mop. Cleaned the house the whole day. Sorry sis that I broke my promise. Cannot tahanlah to live in the same house with so much dirt and grime. Finally was done with housekeeping by 5pm. It was also a good exercise for me too and I didn't have time to suffer from jetlag.
At night, started to pack for our trip to Reno tomorrow. Went to bed by 9pm, was dead exhausting....but, feels good to be in a clean house again! Hooray....
At night, started to pack for our trip to Reno tomorrow. Went to bed by 9pm, was dead exhausting....but, feels good to be in a clean house again! Hooray....
Thu, 20 Aug 2009
It is with a heavy heart I had to say goodbye to mom. Every good thing must come to an end, unfortunately. But, knowing that mom is recovering well and walking good, it puts my mind at ease. And knowing that dad is growing healthier and has a good appetite, that's a relief.
Dad sent me to the airport at 9am for my flight at 10.25am departing for Sgp. I went to the lounge and bought my Cote D'or chocolates. Costs RM20.90 per bar. Well, can't get it here in the US so, beggars can't be choosers.
Arrived in Sgp at 11.40am. Checked out and waited for William to come by and fetch me for lunch in Sgp. Better than sitting in the lounge all by myself. William came on time and we went to this food court. I told Will I will buy lunch and won't hear anything about him paying. Gotta thank him for the use of his car whilst in Pg. This is the least I could do for him considering his kindness.
I had Sgp chicken rice. Do u know it actually taste better than the chicken rice in Pg? Well, if you don't know, now you do. I also tried the fried carrot cake which is like our koay kak. Hmm..pleasantly surprised that it actually tasted good. Aiyah, but nothing comparable to good 'ol koay kak in Penang. I am already missing it.
After the food court, we went to Starbucks and continued with our little chit chat about school in Sgp and US, social ills and the different systems in both the countries we lived in. It was good catching up Will. Thanks for the time accorded to me, appreciate it much.
William sent me to the airport at 3.30pm and I went to buy some more Cote D'or at T3. It costs SG$9.30 per bar but they had a promo of buy 4, free 1.
Went to the SQ lounge to check on last minute emails. Mom called me on my mobile and excitedly share with me that she is now able to sit on the sofa. The sofa being lower than the dinner chair she's sitting on means that she's now able to bend her knees even more. Also, sitting on the sofa means she can elevate her legs up thus, reducing the swelling on her right foot. So, I am most happy for her.
Went to the gate for my boarding of flight SQ2. The flight fm SGP to HKG was so full that I asked for an extra pillow and they were unable to give me one. They told me they will try on the HKG/SFO sector. The flight was very noisy as there were many babies on board and I was just praying to God that it'll be nice if SQ were to upgrade me to biz class for the long haul sector. Otherwise, sleep is going to a challenge for sure. And true enough, God is indeed very good as HE heard my prayers and I did indeed get an upgrade to biz class (seat 22A) for the HKG/SFO sector. I was most happy and texted Ed and Sam of this good news. I can finally sleep in peace, literally (not rest in peace, mind you!). Well, I did get at least 5 hours of sleep and was rejuvenated upon arrival.
We arrived at 8.05pm SFO time and luggage clearance took about 15-20 mins. Customs another 15 mins. My hainan chicken rice packs given to me courtesy of Choy Peng was confiscated by the customs. But, all my other foodstuff were passed, phew! The customs claimed that the chicken rice packs had chicken extract and that's a no-no. So, in future, for those of you coming to the US, be aware as the US customs are very sensitive to anything milk, egg and chicken related.
Ed and Sam fetched me from the airport. They were hiding from me in a corner but Ed's orange t-shirt gave him away. Can spot him from a mile away with that kind of outstanding color, hahaha. I missed them both so much. Feels good to be home where the heart is.
They took me to Joy Sushi for dinner which I gladly wolfed down in spite of having breakfast already on board before touch down. Well, happy times means eating time, don't u agree?
Dad sent me to the airport at 9am for my flight at 10.25am departing for Sgp. I went to the lounge and bought my Cote D'or chocolates. Costs RM20.90 per bar. Well, can't get it here in the US so, beggars can't be choosers.
Arrived in Sgp at 11.40am. Checked out and waited for William to come by and fetch me for lunch in Sgp. Better than sitting in the lounge all by myself. William came on time and we went to this food court. I told Will I will buy lunch and won't hear anything about him paying. Gotta thank him for the use of his car whilst in Pg. This is the least I could do for him considering his kindness.
I had Sgp chicken rice. Do u know it actually taste better than the chicken rice in Pg? Well, if you don't know, now you do. I also tried the fried carrot cake which is like our koay kak. Hmm..pleasantly surprised that it actually tasted good. Aiyah, but nothing comparable to good 'ol koay kak in Penang. I am already missing it.
After the food court, we went to Starbucks and continued with our little chit chat about school in Sgp and US, social ills and the different systems in both the countries we lived in. It was good catching up Will. Thanks for the time accorded to me, appreciate it much.
William sent me to the airport at 3.30pm and I went to buy some more Cote D'or at T3. It costs SG$9.30 per bar but they had a promo of buy 4, free 1.
Went to the SQ lounge to check on last minute emails. Mom called me on my mobile and excitedly share with me that she is now able to sit on the sofa. The sofa being lower than the dinner chair she's sitting on means that she's now able to bend her knees even more. Also, sitting on the sofa means she can elevate her legs up thus, reducing the swelling on her right foot. So, I am most happy for her.
Went to the gate for my boarding of flight SQ2. The flight fm SGP to HKG was so full that I asked for an extra pillow and they were unable to give me one. They told me they will try on the HKG/SFO sector. The flight was very noisy as there were many babies on board and I was just praying to God that it'll be nice if SQ were to upgrade me to biz class for the long haul sector. Otherwise, sleep is going to a challenge for sure. And true enough, God is indeed very good as HE heard my prayers and I did indeed get an upgrade to biz class (seat 22A) for the HKG/SFO sector. I was most happy and texted Ed and Sam of this good news. I can finally sleep in peace, literally (not rest in peace, mind you!). Well, I did get at least 5 hours of sleep and was rejuvenated upon arrival.
We arrived at 8.05pm SFO time and luggage clearance took about 15-20 mins. Customs another 15 mins. My hainan chicken rice packs given to me courtesy of Choy Peng was confiscated by the customs. But, all my other foodstuff were passed, phew! The customs claimed that the chicken rice packs had chicken extract and that's a no-no. So, in future, for those of you coming to the US, be aware as the US customs are very sensitive to anything milk, egg and chicken related.
Ed and Sam fetched me from the airport. They were hiding from me in a corner but Ed's orange t-shirt gave him away. Can spot him from a mile away with that kind of outstanding color, hahaha. I missed them both so much. Feels good to be home where the heart is.
They took me to Joy Sushi for dinner which I gladly wolfed down in spite of having breakfast already on board before touch down. Well, happy times means eating time, don't u agree?
Wed, 19 Aug 2009
B4 I can blink an eye, my holiday's almost over. Good times will now be in the past and I am left with fond memories of a time well spent with family and friends as I bid all of you adieu tomorrow. Sob! Sob! I really hate goodbyes...
No more tennis for today. Wished I had played a lot more. With the amount of food I have been eating of late, needed all the exercise. Am pretty sure I put on weight. So, looking forward to more tennis when I return to US.
Packing I must do today whether I like it or not. Have been procrastinating and delaying with the hope it will slow down time. But, it is not to be. Packing turned out to be one fun process as I tried to squeeze in as many items as possible in the old and new bag. After 2 hours, everything was done and I was so proud of myself that everything fit in those 2 luggage. Was surprised I bought so many food items. Will be fun trying to get through US customs with all the biscuit, curries and sambal belacan. Luggage won't smell good for sure! Just hope the customs won't faint from the smell of belacan, hahaha.
Went for lunch with Sue Hee, Ui May and Harriet. Went to this new Thai Restaurant at Burmah Road called Aroi (opposite Cheow Guan in Pulau Tikus). Food was not too bad but I hated my pineapple rice. It was yellow in color, yucks! But the dessert was nice. After lunch, we walked to this beauty salon called Lovely Beauty located next to Denise Wine Shop @ Pulau Tikus. Apparently, they are selling 2nd hand handbags. Saw all the name brands ie. Burberry, Gucci, LV and Coach. Price is steep. For a 2nd hand handbag, some costs RM1,600. Now, tell me, who will buy? I wouldn't for sure. They definitely won't get my business.
Had facial appointment at 3pm with Ms H'ng. My last few hours of facial bliss. Will miss her tremendously. Can't get that kind of service over here in the US and it costs so much over here some more. Didn't finish till close to 6pm.
Had to return William's Proton Savvy to Goon Ghee's house. Arranged with sis to pick me up from Ghee's house in Tg Bungah. Then, went for dinner with Hoon, dad and Chong Khing at CRC Restaurant. I looked horrible with no make-up on, hair flat and face looking shiny. And, of all days, Hoon had to take pics of horrible me. Oh well...
After dinner, went to buy Koay Kak at Burmah Road (outside Union Primary School - that's my favorite stall). This is my last hurrah with the koay kak. Bought an extra large packet and came home and shared with Hoon. Sat around and chatted with her a bit. Then, they left at 10.30pm. I took my shower, sent out thank you emails to all my friends, cried like a baby coz I know I will miss all my family and friends dearly (life can be quite lonely in the US) esp, mom. But, life goes on and part I must with good 'ol Penang. See you all again next year....Now, gotta go to bed with red, swollen, puffy eyes. Oh dear oh dear....
No more tennis for today. Wished I had played a lot more. With the amount of food I have been eating of late, needed all the exercise. Am pretty sure I put on weight. So, looking forward to more tennis when I return to US.
Packing I must do today whether I like it or not. Have been procrastinating and delaying with the hope it will slow down time. But, it is not to be. Packing turned out to be one fun process as I tried to squeeze in as many items as possible in the old and new bag. After 2 hours, everything was done and I was so proud of myself that everything fit in those 2 luggage. Was surprised I bought so many food items. Will be fun trying to get through US customs with all the biscuit, curries and sambal belacan. Luggage won't smell good for sure! Just hope the customs won't faint from the smell of belacan, hahaha.
Went for lunch with Sue Hee, Ui May and Harriet. Went to this new Thai Restaurant at Burmah Road called Aroi (opposite Cheow Guan in Pulau Tikus). Food was not too bad but I hated my pineapple rice. It was yellow in color, yucks! But the dessert was nice. After lunch, we walked to this beauty salon called Lovely Beauty located next to Denise Wine Shop @ Pulau Tikus. Apparently, they are selling 2nd hand handbags. Saw all the name brands ie. Burberry, Gucci, LV and Coach. Price is steep. For a 2nd hand handbag, some costs RM1,600. Now, tell me, who will buy? I wouldn't for sure. They definitely won't get my business.
Had facial appointment at 3pm with Ms H'ng. My last few hours of facial bliss. Will miss her tremendously. Can't get that kind of service over here in the US and it costs so much over here some more. Didn't finish till close to 6pm.
Had to return William's Proton Savvy to Goon Ghee's house. Arranged with sis to pick me up from Ghee's house in Tg Bungah. Then, went for dinner with Hoon, dad and Chong Khing at CRC Restaurant. I looked horrible with no make-up on, hair flat and face looking shiny. And, of all days, Hoon had to take pics of horrible me. Oh well...
After dinner, went to buy Koay Kak at Burmah Road (outside Union Primary School - that's my favorite stall). This is my last hurrah with the koay kak. Bought an extra large packet and came home and shared with Hoon. Sat around and chatted with her a bit. Then, they left at 10.30pm. I took my shower, sent out thank you emails to all my friends, cried like a baby coz I know I will miss all my family and friends dearly (life can be quite lonely in the US) esp, mom. But, life goes on and part I must with good 'ol Penang. See you all again next year....Now, gotta go to bed with red, swollen, puffy eyes. Oh dear oh dear....
Sun, 16 Aug 2009
Well, time flies doesn't it. At first I thought 16 days in Penang seemed so far away and b4 I know it, it's just another 4 more days in good 'ol Penang b4 I return to the US. Sob! Sob!
Today, had a long chat with Sam on skype. Almost missed my lunch appointment as we both continued talking animatedly about everything under the sky.
Had lunch with Sylvia, Gim and Saw Ai at Old Town Kopitiam at E-Gate. I had nasi lemak. It was a disappointing choice as the food lacked "oomph" and the curry chicken was so hard. But, it wasn't about the food but the great company of great friends. We chatted till about 3.30pm and everyone went their separate ways with promises of coming by to visit me in the US when they have saved enough, or, when they have the time. Well, you guys better come b4 I decide to come home sooner than you think, hahaha!
Came home and thought I could rest a little or perhaps start on my packing as shopping bags are strewn all over my sister's room and there's hardly any space for me to move. But, Marcus called me and told me he's on his way to Pg and will fetch me for dinner at 4.30pm.
I obliged coz that's really kind of him to make that trip from Butterworth. We went to this Japanese Ramen shop and I had unagi rice. Didn't finish the dinner either coz was still full from nasi lemak at E-Gate. It was good to catch up with Marcus. He has put on a lot of weight and almost doubled his size the last time I saw him. He said it was because of a skin allergy medicine he was prescribed by the physician that made him bloat the way it did. He took that medication for 1 year b4 realizing that there's gotta be something wrong as he kept putting on weight. Finally, he consulted another physician and was prescribed another kind but losing all those weight is causing him nightmares as it's been an uphill task thus far. Well, good luck with losing all those pounds Marcus. He has also quitted his job in the maid agency and is thinking of starting his own hardware business but for a start, he's given his employer notice of his quitting so that they can find a replacement and in the mean time, looking for a job as a hardware salesman to gain enough exposure and experience b4 starting his own. Well, good luck Marcus...
Today, had a long chat with Sam on skype. Almost missed my lunch appointment as we both continued talking animatedly about everything under the sky.
Had lunch with Sylvia, Gim and Saw Ai at Old Town Kopitiam at E-Gate. I had nasi lemak. It was a disappointing choice as the food lacked "oomph" and the curry chicken was so hard. But, it wasn't about the food but the great company of great friends. We chatted till about 3.30pm and everyone went their separate ways with promises of coming by to visit me in the US when they have saved enough, or, when they have the time. Well, you guys better come b4 I decide to come home sooner than you think, hahaha!
Came home and thought I could rest a little or perhaps start on my packing as shopping bags are strewn all over my sister's room and there's hardly any space for me to move. But, Marcus called me and told me he's on his way to Pg and will fetch me for dinner at 4.30pm.
I obliged coz that's really kind of him to make that trip from Butterworth. We went to this Japanese Ramen shop and I had unagi rice. Didn't finish the dinner either coz was still full from nasi lemak at E-Gate. It was good to catch up with Marcus. He has put on a lot of weight and almost doubled his size the last time I saw him. He said it was because of a skin allergy medicine he was prescribed by the physician that made him bloat the way it did. He took that medication for 1 year b4 realizing that there's gotta be something wrong as he kept putting on weight. Finally, he consulted another physician and was prescribed another kind but losing all those weight is causing him nightmares as it's been an uphill task thus far. Well, good luck with losing all those pounds Marcus. He has also quitted his job in the maid agency and is thinking of starting his own hardware business but for a start, he's given his employer notice of his quitting so that they can find a replacement and in the mean time, looking for a job as a hardware salesman to gain enough exposure and experience b4 starting his own. Well, good luck Marcus...
Sat, 15 Aug 2009
Parents in law woke up early this morning to send me to the airport for my flight home to Penang at 7.15am. Although my trip to KL was short, nevertheless, the quality of time spent was well worth the short and hectic trip. I would like to accord my sincerest thanks to my parents in law for their love and kindness shown to me during my short stay in KL.
Arrived in Penang on time at 8.15am. Dad fetched me from the airport and we went to the Lip Sin market for breakfast together. After breakfast, bought home some economy dishes so that we can cook rice and eat at home.
After lunch, left home to collect my glasses from Sam Optometrist in Komtar. This is for my long sightedness. His advice - only wear it when I am reading for a long period of time. If I can help it, don't use it otherwise, my eyes will be lazy in the future. So, since bringing it home, I have yet to use it and right now, it is decorating my night stand.
Then, off to tennis I went. Played with Brenda and Choo Eng and had a game of doubles when Alan came. Choo Eng and me partnered against Brenda/Alan. We lost that game 4-6. Couldn't get any rhythm on my serve and 2nd serve was weak, very weak. Gotta work hard on improving that part of my game. It's too shabby...
Played till almost 8pm and we were shrouded in total darkness. Danny then took me to go buy supper for mom/dad as well as to Mega Mall to buy mom's mobile pouch. Then, Danny took me for dinner at Line Clear at Pg Road where they sell one of the best nasi kandar in town. The beef rendang was yummy and parking was expensive (RM4). Would I go back there? Hmm...perhaps not. Well, the food was good but the hygiene isn't? Just glad I didn't get any food poisoning after consuming all the curries and, they forgot my papadum!
Oh, and b4 I forget, Danny took me in his brand new 2nd hand BMW 525i. The engine was purring and indeed, it lived up to its advertisement of being the ultimate driving machine. What a ride...
On another front, Sam played her 2nd no-tap tournament partnering her coach, Ty Dawson and both of them came in 3rd. Yay, got scholarship money...Good job Sam, great job Ty.
Arrived in Penang on time at 8.15am. Dad fetched me from the airport and we went to the Lip Sin market for breakfast together. After breakfast, bought home some economy dishes so that we can cook rice and eat at home.
After lunch, left home to collect my glasses from Sam Optometrist in Komtar. This is for my long sightedness. His advice - only wear it when I am reading for a long period of time. If I can help it, don't use it otherwise, my eyes will be lazy in the future. So, since bringing it home, I have yet to use it and right now, it is decorating my night stand.
Then, off to tennis I went. Played with Brenda and Choo Eng and had a game of doubles when Alan came. Choo Eng and me partnered against Brenda/Alan. We lost that game 4-6. Couldn't get any rhythm on my serve and 2nd serve was weak, very weak. Gotta work hard on improving that part of my game. It's too shabby...
Played till almost 8pm and we were shrouded in total darkness. Danny then took me to go buy supper for mom/dad as well as to Mega Mall to buy mom's mobile pouch. Then, Danny took me for dinner at Line Clear at Pg Road where they sell one of the best nasi kandar in town. The beef rendang was yummy and parking was expensive (RM4). Would I go back there? Hmm...perhaps not. Well, the food was good but the hygiene isn't? Just glad I didn't get any food poisoning after consuming all the curries and, they forgot my papadum!
Oh, and b4 I forget, Danny took me in his brand new 2nd hand BMW 525i. The engine was purring and indeed, it lived up to its advertisement of being the ultimate driving machine. What a ride...
On another front, Sam played her 2nd no-tap tournament partnering her coach, Ty Dawson and both of them came in 3rd. Yay, got scholarship money...Good job Sam, great job Ty.
Friday, 14 August 2009
Had tennis lessons with Sue Hee and Kim yesterday. Feels good to be complimented that I have toned legs and strong core muscles and great shot making (those were Kim's words). Perhaps she's still new to the game. She should've seen those ladies at Club Sport Fremont here in the US. They are even tougher looking than I am. She'll be awed...
Anyway, booked my flight on Firefly to go down to KL to visit my parents in law this morning. Dad fetched me to the Pg airport coz I found out that parking costs me RM20 a day. I am too cheap to pay that kind of money. Figured it's better spent on buying dad a nice lunch with the RM20 than pay for the parking at the airport.
Arrived as scheduled at 8.15am in KL. Am impressed with the level of service provided by Firefly and most importantly, they were punctual, left on time, arrived on time. My parents in law came just as I was walking out of the terminal building. Talk about perfect timing!
We went for breakfast at a coffee shop at the market in Puchong. I had wan thun mee. The ones in KL tastes much better than the ones in Pg. Then, went home to my parents in law's apartment and we spent some time catching up with one another. It feels good to see that they are healthy. Mom in law permed her hair. She complained that her hair is thinning. Wait till she sees mine coz the water here is not suitable for our kind of hair. And, I am still young while she's past 60 years. So, am wondering what she's talking about thinning hair when I am not complaining, hahaha! At 11am, went to take a short snooze coz this morning, I woke up at 5am to go to the airport by 6am. Slept till 12pm and then, dad in law went to buy chicken rice and bah kut teh for lunch. The food was as usual, yummy than ever and I wolfed down everything in no time. At the end of the day, the words "ho pau ah" is an understatement!
At night, Chris, Ed's 2nd sister came over to visit me. That's sweet of her. But, what's sweeter was the fact that in spite of her being ill due to gastritis and all things stomach related (she was just discharged from hospital a day ago), she still made it and that made me feel special. Thanks so much Chris for that effort.
We went for dinner with Chris, Patrick, Suzette, Leong and Lester together with my parents in law. Dinner was good but company was fabulous. Thanks to Suzette and family for making time, appreciate it much.
Anyway, booked my flight on Firefly to go down to KL to visit my parents in law this morning. Dad fetched me to the Pg airport coz I found out that parking costs me RM20 a day. I am too cheap to pay that kind of money. Figured it's better spent on buying dad a nice lunch with the RM20 than pay for the parking at the airport.
Arrived as scheduled at 8.15am in KL. Am impressed with the level of service provided by Firefly and most importantly, they were punctual, left on time, arrived on time. My parents in law came just as I was walking out of the terminal building. Talk about perfect timing!
We went for breakfast at a coffee shop at the market in Puchong. I had wan thun mee. The ones in KL tastes much better than the ones in Pg. Then, went home to my parents in law's apartment and we spent some time catching up with one another. It feels good to see that they are healthy. Mom in law permed her hair. She complained that her hair is thinning. Wait till she sees mine coz the water here is not suitable for our kind of hair. And, I am still young while she's past 60 years. So, am wondering what she's talking about thinning hair when I am not complaining, hahaha! At 11am, went to take a short snooze coz this morning, I woke up at 5am to go to the airport by 6am. Slept till 12pm and then, dad in law went to buy chicken rice and bah kut teh for lunch. The food was as usual, yummy than ever and I wolfed down everything in no time. At the end of the day, the words "ho pau ah" is an understatement!
At night, Chris, Ed's 2nd sister came over to visit me. That's sweet of her. But, what's sweeter was the fact that in spite of her being ill due to gastritis and all things stomach related (she was just discharged from hospital a day ago), she still made it and that made me feel special. Thanks so much Chris for that effort.
We went for dinner with Chris, Patrick, Suzette, Leong and Lester together with my parents in law. Dinner was good but company was fabulous. Thanks to Suzette and family for making time, appreciate it much.
12 August 2009
Played tennis at Penang Sports Club with Ui May at 7.30am and Harriet joined us too in spite of her shoulder ache. By 8am, the sun was scorching hot and I couldn't stand the heat. Gave up playing by 8.15am and went to sit in the shade while waiting for Sue Hee to come. I was supposed to play with Sue Hee from 8.30-9.30am at PSC but figured I won't be able to withstand the heat and humidity. Suggested we play at Danny's court instead coz at least there, there'll be one side that's nicely shaded by the trees. Called Danny to inquire if it's okay by him and he consented so, SH and me went there after finishing our breakfast. Stroked a little with SH till about 9.45am and went home.
Today, Sue Hee, Ui May and Harriet are buying me lunch at Kozue Japanese Restaurant at Gurney Plaza. A new restaurant located on level 3 and most of its staff are from Kirishima. Food was good and reasonably priced, esp the Agedashi tofu which is only RM5 per plate and quite a huge portion I must say. Before lunch, went to Vincci and bought myself 2 pairs of shoes, one high heeled shoe and one sandal. Am so happy that they had it in size 3.
Today, Sue Hee, Ui May and Harriet are buying me lunch at Kozue Japanese Restaurant at Gurney Plaza. A new restaurant located on level 3 and most of its staff are from Kirishima. Food was good and reasonably priced, esp the Agedashi tofu which is only RM5 per plate and quite a huge portion I must say. Before lunch, went to Vincci and bought myself 2 pairs of shoes, one high heeled shoe and one sandal. Am so happy that they had it in size 3.
10 August 2009
Went to the Pulau Tikus market this morning and bought nasi lemak for Danny and char bee hoon for myself. Even the char been hoon lady misses me. Feels good to be missed, hahaha. Also bought 10 packs of beef rendang home and the shopkeeper sold it for RM3 a pack. Gave me a good price wor...hmm...I wonder.
After that, went to play tennis with Brenda, Vicher, Ui May and Hooi Ling. Had a good time with the ladies and then after tennis, went to May's house for breakfast. She specially cooked me kuih bakul with shredded coconut (she knows it's my favorite), steamed mee koo and fried cempedak. Yummy yummy. Sue Hee also just came back from her vacation in Denmark and she joined us for breakfast and so did Brenda and Vicher.
At night, went out with Goon Ghee and William. They came by to fetch me from mom's house and we went to Passions of Kerala over at Gelugor. Had yummy Indian food. Was tempted to drink teh tarik but know if I do so, I won't sleep a wink tonight. So, I had a good self control and didn't order one, sigh. We chatted until 10.30pm and it was time for them to close shop. Ghee volunteered to drive us to Penang Club at Northam Road to continue with our little chit chat (we just had so much to catch up with one another, William being in Sgp and me being in the US). We were there till almost 1am and then Ghee drove me home to Bukit Jambul. Well, what a day...I had fun, praise God.
After that, went to play tennis with Brenda, Vicher, Ui May and Hooi Ling. Had a good time with the ladies and then after tennis, went to May's house for breakfast. She specially cooked me kuih bakul with shredded coconut (she knows it's my favorite), steamed mee koo and fried cempedak. Yummy yummy. Sue Hee also just came back from her vacation in Denmark and she joined us for breakfast and so did Brenda and Vicher.
At night, went out with Goon Ghee and William. They came by to fetch me from mom's house and we went to Passions of Kerala over at Gelugor. Had yummy Indian food. Was tempted to drink teh tarik but know if I do so, I won't sleep a wink tonight. So, I had a good self control and didn't order one, sigh. We chatted until 10.30pm and it was time for them to close shop. Ghee volunteered to drive us to Penang Club at Northam Road to continue with our little chit chat (we just had so much to catch up with one another, William being in Sgp and me being in the US). We were there till almost 1am and then Ghee drove me home to Bukit Jambul. Well, what a day...I had fun, praise God.
8 August 2009
Woke up this morning greeted by grey skies. Went for breakfast with dad at Island Glades. Had difficulty finding parking spots. Finally told dad to run down and get a seating spot while I drive his car around looking for that elusive parking. Got one finally, parked and then the rain stopped, hallelujah. Ate hokkien mee, char koay kak and hot milo. What a pig again. Never ate so much breakfast in my life.
Then, off to the hospital to get mom discharged. She was more than happy to leave that place. She has had a bitter sweet experience from GH. Sweet because the orthopedic surgeon, Dr Bea was kind, compassionate, caring and professional. Bitter because the night nurse was obnoxious, irresponsible and almost caused mom to suffer an infection due to an open wound she refused to dress with antiseptic cream. The entire 4 night's stay cost us RM360.00. Mom was able to walk all the way to the restroom to change from her hospital clothes, with the aid of the walking frame. I am most proud of her and most importantly, she did not complain of any pain. Got her a wheelchair to take her to the carpark and off we went. I stopped by Queensbay Mall's Guardian Pharmacy to get her some antiseptic cream and some medicated plaster for her aching back (from sleeping in an awkward position throughout the 4 nights at GH). Came home and she was able to walk from the parking lot of her apartment block to the elevator to home without any problems at all. Praise God....
Settled mom down, gave her the 100 Plus isotonic drink and she felt good for the 1st time since surgery being able to consume something cold from the fridge. Then, she took a nap and had the best sleep ever. Nothing beats home I guess.
In the evening, went for my tennis session and played with the kids at 4pm till about 7.45pm. Played with Choo Eng too and had a game or two with Alan, playing 2 against 1. We lost, as usual as Alan was way too crafty for us with his spectacular drop shots which the fastest legs like mine n Choo Eng's wasn't even able to catch up on.
Then, off to the hospital to get mom discharged. She was more than happy to leave that place. She has had a bitter sweet experience from GH. Sweet because the orthopedic surgeon, Dr Bea was kind, compassionate, caring and professional. Bitter because the night nurse was obnoxious, irresponsible and almost caused mom to suffer an infection due to an open wound she refused to dress with antiseptic cream. The entire 4 night's stay cost us RM360.00. Mom was able to walk all the way to the restroom to change from her hospital clothes, with the aid of the walking frame. I am most proud of her and most importantly, she did not complain of any pain. Got her a wheelchair to take her to the carpark and off we went. I stopped by Queensbay Mall's Guardian Pharmacy to get her some antiseptic cream and some medicated plaster for her aching back (from sleeping in an awkward position throughout the 4 nights at GH). Came home and she was able to walk from the parking lot of her apartment block to the elevator to home without any problems at all. Praise God....
Settled mom down, gave her the 100 Plus isotonic drink and she felt good for the 1st time since surgery being able to consume something cold from the fridge. Then, she took a nap and had the best sleep ever. Nothing beats home I guess.
In the evening, went for my tennis session and played with the kids at 4pm till about 7.45pm. Played with Choo Eng too and had a game or two with Alan, playing 2 against 1. We lost, as usual as Alan was way too crafty for us with his spectacular drop shots which the fastest legs like mine n Choo Eng's wasn't even able to catch up on.
6 August 2009
Man...I am really slow in my updates isn't it? Coming back to the US and talking about my trip in Penang, strange, very strange...
Anyway, no tennis this morning as it rained and poured. What a drag...I was looking forward to some real tennis. Went to the tennis court anyway with the hope of finding no rain at Jesselton. However, was greatly disappointed as there wasn't any blue skies in sight. Waited for Ui May to come around to the courts and then went for breakfast with her and Danny at Macalister Road Hokkien Mee. The mee doesn't taste as good as it used to be. We sat down and chat a little and deep down, still hoping that the skies would clear for me to get some tennis done but no such luck. Eventually, we gave up when the rain continued to pour and doesn't look like it is going to dissipate any time soon. Decided to follow Ui May home and she volunteered to take me shopping at Gurney Plaza (GP) for my luggage at 10am.
We chatted a little in her house and then left for GP at 10am. Ui May was good. She took me to a half dozen shops selling luggage and the 1st thing she made clear to the shopkeeper was, "We're looking for the largest cheap and good luggage that has 70% discount. So, if you have it in your store, show it to us." I applaud her for her frankness and how she set the tone straight away. Went to Samsonite, the luggage there was nice but, very expensive even with 50% off. It was still selling at RM700-800 and above. Hmm...out of my budget (I am cheap). Even went to one shop which specializes in selling the Kipling brand but the minute Ui May mentioned that I could buy the luggage for half the price in the US, the shopkeeper ignored us completely. Didn't even bother answering us when we asked about a certain luggage we were interested in. Oh well, such proud attitude will only cause him to lose his edge in this business. I hope his shop will close down in due course. What bad attitude to have. The owner should sack him. Hmm..maybe he's the owner. Oh well, life goes on. There's always another shop. Finally found one that's huge, cheap, not sure if it's good, but, the brand was Eminent and selling for RM195. What a steal of a price, esp after conversion to US$. Called hubby to double check if I should buy and he said, what am I waiting for esp with that kind of a price. Well, Ui May said we should shop some more and promised to bring me back again when I have decided. Isn't that sweet of her? Thanks May.
From shopping, we went on for lunch at Hot Bowl. Good to eat that yummy steamed chicken with curry mee. That place is jam packed at 12pm and no parking space nearby. Had to walk a "mile" away. May bought lunch, refused to let me pay. Bought 2 cans of the yummy curry paste home.
From lunch, straight to the hospital to visit mom. She looks good though have no appetite. Sat around till about 2.45pm and got "chased out" by the security personnel coz it's past visiting hours. Went straight to the tennis court for my lessons at 3pm. Played till 6pm, then, went back to the hospital to visit mom. Am very tired by now. Dad bought mom some porridge so, decided I would feed her. Mom was good and finished all her food. Then, I started to feel uncomfortable in the stomach. Same symptom as when I was returning from Reno. Broke out in cold sweat, stomach churning on me and felt faint. Well, the only comfort was I was in hospital so, in case if I faint, at least help won't be far away. But, considering it is GH, hmm..maybe not, hahaha. Anyway, I turned pale and then I thought I better go to the restroom and see if it helps and, it did. Felt much better after that and then went home with sis and ate at the coffee shop at Lim Lean Teng Road. Had fried oyster, intestine satay and packed home the famous economy fried beehoon. See what a greedy pig I am...laying my hands on all the yummy food....
Anyway, no tennis this morning as it rained and poured. What a drag...I was looking forward to some real tennis. Went to the tennis court anyway with the hope of finding no rain at Jesselton. However, was greatly disappointed as there wasn't any blue skies in sight. Waited for Ui May to come around to the courts and then went for breakfast with her and Danny at Macalister Road Hokkien Mee. The mee doesn't taste as good as it used to be. We sat down and chat a little and deep down, still hoping that the skies would clear for me to get some tennis done but no such luck. Eventually, we gave up when the rain continued to pour and doesn't look like it is going to dissipate any time soon. Decided to follow Ui May home and she volunteered to take me shopping at Gurney Plaza (GP) for my luggage at 10am.
We chatted a little in her house and then left for GP at 10am. Ui May was good. She took me to a half dozen shops selling luggage and the 1st thing she made clear to the shopkeeper was, "We're looking for the largest cheap and good luggage that has 70% discount. So, if you have it in your store, show it to us." I applaud her for her frankness and how she set the tone straight away. Went to Samsonite, the luggage there was nice but, very expensive even with 50% off. It was still selling at RM700-800 and above. Hmm...out of my budget (I am cheap). Even went to one shop which specializes in selling the Kipling brand but the minute Ui May mentioned that I could buy the luggage for half the price in the US, the shopkeeper ignored us completely. Didn't even bother answering us when we asked about a certain luggage we were interested in. Oh well, such proud attitude will only cause him to lose his edge in this business. I hope his shop will close down in due course. What bad attitude to have. The owner should sack him. Hmm..maybe he's the owner. Oh well, life goes on. There's always another shop. Finally found one that's huge, cheap, not sure if it's good, but, the brand was Eminent and selling for RM195. What a steal of a price, esp after conversion to US$. Called hubby to double check if I should buy and he said, what am I waiting for esp with that kind of a price. Well, Ui May said we should shop some more and promised to bring me back again when I have decided. Isn't that sweet of her? Thanks May.
From shopping, we went on for lunch at Hot Bowl. Good to eat that yummy steamed chicken with curry mee. That place is jam packed at 12pm and no parking space nearby. Had to walk a "mile" away. May bought lunch, refused to let me pay. Bought 2 cans of the yummy curry paste home.
From lunch, straight to the hospital to visit mom. She looks good though have no appetite. Sat around till about 2.45pm and got "chased out" by the security personnel coz it's past visiting hours. Went straight to the tennis court for my lessons at 3pm. Played till 6pm, then, went back to the hospital to visit mom. Am very tired by now. Dad bought mom some porridge so, decided I would feed her. Mom was good and finished all her food. Then, I started to feel uncomfortable in the stomach. Same symptom as when I was returning from Reno. Broke out in cold sweat, stomach churning on me and felt faint. Well, the only comfort was I was in hospital so, in case if I faint, at least help won't be far away. But, considering it is GH, hmm..maybe not, hahaha. Anyway, I turned pale and then I thought I better go to the restroom and see if it helps and, it did. Felt much better after that and then went home with sis and ate at the coffee shop at Lim Lean Teng Road. Had fried oyster, intestine satay and packed home the famous economy fried beehoon. See what a greedy pig I am...laying my hands on all the yummy food....
5 August 2009
I totally screwed up this morning. Wanna know why? I called Danny, my tennis coach in Penang and told him I wanted to have lessons with him at 7.30am. He was most happy to oblige. I set my alarm clock on my mobile phone for 6am. Woke up at 5am instead, jetlag, what else? Since it was early, I thought I'll do some work on the computer and maybe catch up with a little chat with Sam. Did just that and then, at 6.30am, I heard dad outside the hall and decided to go out and chat a little with him. And when I opened my room door, was surprised that at 6.30am, it's already so bright and cheery. Asked dad what time it was and he said, "oh, 7.45am". I said, "no way" and sure enough, the clock in the hall says so. I went to check on the clock on my mobile and it says 6.45am. Looks like I am behind 1 hour. Oh my gosh...my tennis...oh dear, poor Danny. I quickly called him on his mobile and apologized profusely saying that my mobile phone clock screwed up big time on me. I quickly got dressed and went out in a hurry without breakfast and didn't reach the court till 8.30am, no thanks to the traffic jam around Green Lane. Played till 9.30am and had to leave in a puff coz I had facial appointment at 9.30am with Ms H'ng. Well, not enough tennis obviously. T4, I shall try to get more under my belt in the days to come....
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
17 August 2009
Took mom to GH to remove her stitches. Dr Bea, the orthopedic surgeon was most nice and told mom she's healed 95% except for the swelling of her right foot. She continues to walk well and can even stand on her own for a short period of time without the walking frame.
Here's mom at home walking with the aid of the walking frame. Dr Bea told her that with the stitches removed, she can now stretch her right leg straight and even bend it a little and demonstrated to her how to bend and exercise her knee. She did it without much of an effort and most importantly, without pain.
While she was removing her stitches, I went to get her prescription from counter 014A and then we head for home after the hospital visit. Stopped by Pulau Tikus market to buy breakfast for ourselves, buy some groceries to cook and then homeward bound we went.
After my breakfast of koay teow thng, cooked steamed garoupa and pork for mom and dad's lunch and then head off for lunch at Perut Rumah at Kelawei Road with Brenda and Choo Eng. This is a nyonya restaurant and the otak was actually pretty impressive. Had bee ko moy for dessert, yummy! Thanks to Brenda for making time to come out for lunch coz I know she was busy with Vicher coming back from UK. My thanks to Choo Eng for specially taking time off to make lunch and play tennis with me. I really appreciate it very much.
After lunch, head for home to change into my tennis gear and went out at 5pm for tennis lessons with Danny together with Choo Eng. We had a fun time learning how to volley correctly and get our timing right. Oh, it was not easy as timing's everything in volleys and I had such a hard time trying to maintain focus and put into action what I've been taught.
Didn't finish playing till past 7.45pm and we couldn't see the ball anymore as it was dark. Went to buy koay kak at Burmah Road and bagged it home for dinner together with Hoon. Had a big packet of koay kak, ate the leftover fish and 5 mangosteens. I am so full after that.
Then, Hoon stayed the whole night till past 12am and we both had a good time catching up with one another and sharing our lives with each other until she almost lose her voice. As I am writing this, Hoon is on MC on Mon and Tue, 8/18 and 8/19 as she's sick, poor Sis. Must have had too much fun @ Genting, hahaha.
Here's mom at home walking with the aid of the walking frame. Dr Bea told her that with the stitches removed, she can now stretch her right leg straight and even bend it a little and demonstrated to her how to bend and exercise her knee. She did it without much of an effort and most importantly, without pain.
While she was removing her stitches, I went to get her prescription from counter 014A and then we head for home after the hospital visit. Stopped by Pulau Tikus market to buy breakfast for ourselves, buy some groceries to cook and then homeward bound we went.
After my breakfast of koay teow thng, cooked steamed garoupa and pork for mom and dad's lunch and then head off for lunch at Perut Rumah at Kelawei Road with Brenda and Choo Eng. This is a nyonya restaurant and the otak was actually pretty impressive. Had bee ko moy for dessert, yummy! Thanks to Brenda for making time to come out for lunch coz I know she was busy with Vicher coming back from UK. My thanks to Choo Eng for specially taking time off to make lunch and play tennis with me. I really appreciate it very much.
After lunch, head for home to change into my tennis gear and went out at 5pm for tennis lessons with Danny together with Choo Eng. We had a fun time learning how to volley correctly and get our timing right. Oh, it was not easy as timing's everything in volleys and I had such a hard time trying to maintain focus and put into action what I've been taught.
Didn't finish playing till past 7.45pm and we couldn't see the ball anymore as it was dark. Went to buy koay kak at Burmah Road and bagged it home for dinner together with Hoon. Had a big packet of koay kak, ate the leftover fish and 5 mangosteens. I am so full after that.
Then, Hoon stayed the whole night till past 12am and we both had a good time catching up with one another and sharing our lives with each other until she almost lose her voice. As I am writing this, Hoon is on MC on Mon and Tue, 8/18 and 8/19 as she's sick, poor Sis. Must have had too much fun @ Genting, hahaha.
18 August 2009
Today, had lunch with Kathleen Loke at Ryoma Japanese Restaurant at Tanjung Tokong. We had a good time catching up on lost time and waitresses was more than eager to usher us out of the restaurant as we sat till 2.15pm which was way past their closing time. Once outside our parked cars, both of us were still chit chatting and I didn't leave till almost 2.33pm for my dental appointment at 3pm at Tanjung Dental. Dr Way, the dentist was as usual, very chattery and asked me a ton of questions about how life is like in the US which I was more than happy to share with her. No cavities so, it was just cleaning and polishing which came to RM60.00, very reasonably priced and a good job done. Told her that if I come back next year in June, will take her for durians (coz she told me she loves durians just like I do) in Balik Pulau.
After dental appointment, went to Australia Tailor to check if they have any nice fabric to make shirts for Ed but to my disappointment, they don't have his measurements on record and t4, no point picking fabric. Looks like Ed has to go there himself when he visits Penang on his next biz trip.
Went straight for tennis lessons with Danny at 5pm and it started with a drizzle. Choo Eng joined me around 5.15pm and we learnt about racquet handling today. I had lots of problems with changing grips between groundies and volleys. But, gotta persevere and get used to it. Am sure it will become natural in due course. Then, around 5.40pm, it started to pour pretty heavily but we still continued. Then, it was too heavy and we stopped for a while but when pouring rain became a drizzle, we went back out to play. The one good thing about omnicourts is that, we can play in spite of the rain. Uncle Alan joined us later and he, too, played with us in the rain. We were all drenched from head to toe but still played on. Danny even turned on the court lights at 7pm so that we could continue to play on coz the sky was really dark and the rain doesn't look like it's gonna stop anytime soon. Finally, Alan was tired coz we were practising our approach shot and volleys and he ran out of steam. We finally call it a day, with rain still pouring down our faces and went home on our separate ways at 7.45pm. Goodbye Danny, Choo Eng and Alan and here I bid adieu to my favorite court at Jesselton one more time. With a heavy heart, I dragged my feet to the car and drove home with tears streaming in my eyes knowing that I am going to miss everything all over again.....
After dental appointment, went to Australia Tailor to check if they have any nice fabric to make shirts for Ed but to my disappointment, they don't have his measurements on record and t4, no point picking fabric. Looks like Ed has to go there himself when he visits Penang on his next biz trip.
Went straight for tennis lessons with Danny at 5pm and it started with a drizzle. Choo Eng joined me around 5.15pm and we learnt about racquet handling today. I had lots of problems with changing grips between groundies and volleys. But, gotta persevere and get used to it. Am sure it will become natural in due course. Then, around 5.40pm, it started to pour pretty heavily but we still continued. Then, it was too heavy and we stopped for a while but when pouring rain became a drizzle, we went back out to play. The one good thing about omnicourts is that, we can play in spite of the rain. Uncle Alan joined us later and he, too, played with us in the rain. We were all drenched from head to toe but still played on. Danny even turned on the court lights at 7pm so that we could continue to play on coz the sky was really dark and the rain doesn't look like it's gonna stop anytime soon. Finally, Alan was tired coz we were practising our approach shot and volleys and he ran out of steam. We finally call it a day, with rain still pouring down our faces and went home on our separate ways at 7.45pm. Goodbye Danny, Choo Eng and Alan and here I bid adieu to my favorite court at Jesselton one more time. With a heavy heart, I dragged my feet to the car and drove home with tears streaming in my eyes knowing that I am going to miss everything all over again.....
4 August 2009
Hallelujah...arrived safe and sound into good 'ol Penang. It was good to see familiar surroundings. My brother in law, Chong Khing, fetched me from the airport at 4.30pm, right on schedule. The checked in baggage didn't have any problems getting through customs. Went to mom's house to put away my baggage and then I freshened up a little and head off to the hospital to see mom. She was wheeled out of surgery at 4.30pm and the area around her knee is still numb from the anesthesia administered.
Mom looks good, not pale or tired. She was in the 3rd class ward on the 2nd floor and surrounding area doesn't look too shabby, quite clean but somewhat noisy. Doc said she's not supposed to walk for the next 2 days and they'll give her the green light when the timing is right.
Visiting hours is 12-1pm and 5-7pm daily. Chong Khing's parents, sister and nephew came along to visit mom too and we all left the hospital at 7pm to go for dinner at Chok Dee Thai Restaurant located at Burmah Road.
I sat in dad's car and accompanied him to Chok Dee and almost met with an accident coz dad turned into a one way street from Loh Boon Siew Road with oncoming cars honking away at us. That frightened the heck out of me and I just buried my face in my hands for fear of what is to come in case those cars don't stop on time. Thank goodness, they did and we arrived at Chok Dee in 1 piece.
Had a nice meal with Dad, Chong Khing, Hoon and her in laws. Thai food never tasted so good...
Mom looks good, not pale or tired. She was in the 3rd class ward on the 2nd floor and surrounding area doesn't look too shabby, quite clean but somewhat noisy. Doc said she's not supposed to walk for the next 2 days and they'll give her the green light when the timing is right.
Visiting hours is 12-1pm and 5-7pm daily. Chong Khing's parents, sister and nephew came along to visit mom too and we all left the hospital at 7pm to go for dinner at Chok Dee Thai Restaurant located at Burmah Road.
I sat in dad's car and accompanied him to Chok Dee and almost met with an accident coz dad turned into a one way street from Loh Boon Siew Road with oncoming cars honking away at us. That frightened the heck out of me and I just buried my face in my hands for fear of what is to come in case those cars don't stop on time. Thank goodness, they did and we arrived at Chok Dee in 1 piece.
Had a nice meal with Dad, Chong Khing, Hoon and her in laws. Thai food never tasted so good...
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