Over a month ago, I was visiting with a childhood friend of mine in Baltimore. We've kind of lost touch along the way, but in recent years (like most people the world over), have reconnected on the social media platform known as Facebook. It was the first time that I have had the chance to see her all grown up and with a family of her own. I had met her husband and two little girls, and yet a third one on the way! Having spent some quality time with her and her family, I couldn't help but be amazed by the interaction between them. I have never before been in a house with little children (4 and under) and see such a calm and quiet atmosphere. Granted, it is a house with little girls, who most everyone would agree, are the less rambunctious gender. I am not trying to judge anyone on the roles of parenthood. For one, I am not yet a parent and for another, there are many ways in which one could be a shining example of a parent (I know of many). However, being that I have spent the last few years working as a teacher with children ages 2 to 17, I'd have to say that kids these days are not quite like they used to be. Now that I think about it, parents are not quite like they used to be either.
Ever since the beginning of time, kids have always looked up to their parents, always trying to please them (sometimes, even doing something they don't really care for but feel it is what is expected of them). Parents would, in turn, praise their children and make it a point to attend various school functions to show their support.
These days, however, parents no longer make the effort or have the time. With everyone putting their careers first (for whatever the reason), priorities are no longer what they used to be. PTO meetings and other school functions are greatly lacking in parent attendance. Because of this, you find that these days, children not only do not care for school, but are unmotivated, not driven, and lack enthusiasm. This is perhaps because they feel what is the point when no one will be there to share in their successes and/or accomplishments. So then, often, they choose to do outrageous things just to get attention from their parents who would otherwise be too pre-occupied.
We need to think of a way to improve and to make change within our societies. How could we possibly teach our children that education is important, yet we do nothing to support it other than pay for it? We need to not only provide, but encourage, support, praise, and congratulate where and when it is due. All of this starts within one's home.
Take, for example, my friend from Baltimore. She and her husband are great at leading by example. They always speak in low, soft tones no matter if they are speaking to each other or to the children. The children, in turn, speak in low, soft tones. Manners are taught right from the very beginning (and here I thought that such a thing no longer existed!). This was witnessed when we adults were sitting at the dinner table having a conversation and the oldest daughter said "Excuse me" prior to interrupting us and speaking. T.V. is hardly allowed. Instead, they spend quality time sitting together as a family reading books and playing together. They even have "centers" set up for the children to play on their own.
How would you discipline your children? What sort of privileges would you allow (i.e., T.V., telephone calls, computer)? Would you allow such interruptions during meal time, which was once considered family time? Would you teach your children proper behavior such as manners and etiquette? Are you willing to lead by example whether it's by action or by words?
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Thanksgiving 2010
At long last, the holiday season has arrived! This Thanksgiving, I didn’t really have much to be thankful for other than the usual—family, friends, a home, my health, work, and the never ending experiences (good and bad) in my so called life. This year, I am back in Georgia with my mother as we roll into the holidays. We spent some time with a couple of my friends, eating and enjoying being in each other’s company. My tribute to the Thanksgiving meal was a couple of homemade pumpkin pies. We ate and were merry ‘til the wee hours of the night.
On Friday morning, or as many others so commonly know it as Black Friday, I was up before the sun and headed on over to the mall to do some shopping. I know some of you probably think that this is crazy, while others of you could relate. Why did I choose the mall instead of some other stores like Wal-Mart, Best Buy, or Target you ask? I chose it because of its one-stop shop appeal as well as for the fact that I’m more of a clothes and apparel kind of gal. And so at the mall is where I shopped ‘til I dropped (a couple bottles of Bath & Body Works antibacterial soap while trying desperately to scratch my itchy nose with hands full of shopping bags) from 6 a.m. until sometime well after 10 a.m. I did all this by myself. No partner in crime, nor friend in tow—not even just someone I could’ve dragged with me just for the use of standing in line (and boy, were the lines long)!
Take, for example, the line at GAP. There was a 50% off everything sale that lasted only until 10 a.m. I’m not much of a GAP person, but I went there on behalf of my beloved sister. I wanted to get her a pair of jeans because I know that she loves the jeans there, especially if it’s a good deal. Unable to reach her, I considered buying some sleepwear and a scarf. That was, until I saw the outrageous line that went from the cashier counter to the front of the store and snaked around the massive store. Going through the line would’ve taken me at least an hour until I finally reached the register; time that I didn’t want to waste and so I therefore put the merchandise back and walked out of the store. Like I had said, I’m not much of a GAP person anyway.
After my shopping spree, I went home to take a little nap before running some errands and heading into work for a little while. Upon it being slow at work, I left early to meet with a couple of good friends from high school, whom I have not seen in over a year. We caught up on life over some drinks. My holiday is turning out to be off to a good start. :o)
Friday, November 12, 2010
Gotta Love Thenglish!
What happens when you visit a country where English is not the first language but they still find a way to incorporate it in everyday life to appease the majority of the world's population and where English is quickly becoming the universal language? You get many variations (and misuses) of the language. Most people in the United States are familiar with the term Spanglish, which stands for the blend of Spanish and English. And, being that I am Thai-Chinese and have spent a good part of my life in Thailand; I often wonder, what would be the term used if we blended Thai and English? I believe that the consensus has pretty much settled on Thenglish (pronounced Ting-lish). I must say that Thais sure have a unique way in saying what they want to say. And, as I often like to smile and say about many things concerning Thailand and all things Thai, "Only in Thailand". See for yourself as to what exactly I mean.
In the first picture, you have a new restaurant that is just opening up and is aiming for self promotion. It claims to have a chef who has received his training from the prestigious Gordonbleu. I'm sorry, but, where is that exactly? I don't know about the rest of you, but I've only ever heard of the school for the culinary arts, Le Cordon Bleu. You can pretty much bet that I won't be dining there any time soon (or ever)!
In the second picture, you have your typical building directory. However, at this place, instead of the bold star being the indicator of your present location in the building, it is asking you Are you here? Needless to say, I was so tempted to pull out a sharpie and answer with an I dunno..Am I here? Instead, I chose what any other normal person would do in these circumstances, I took a picture of it for the purpose of sharing.
Lastly, I was meeting with some friends at a local (and very chill) bar somewhere off the infamous Sukhumvit Rd. Since I was the first to arrive, I decided to take pleasure in perusing the menu to get an idea of what I might like to order later and pleasure was exactly what I found. Actually, it was more like amusement. Aside from the so many mixers the place had to offer, I noticed that this place offered something uniquely different--something known as a cockage charge. What in the world could that possibly be? It sounds rather lethal. And I can't help but wonder, does it come with a side of Happy Ending? :o)
It's a wonder that with all the native English speakers found throughout Thailand that Thais do not think to entreat them for their assistance in spelling and grammar.
These are just a few examples of countless more spotted all over the wonderful Land of Smiles. If you'd like to see more, I will try my best to continue searching for and sharing them. Or perhaps you should visit Thailand where you can see them for yourself. ;o)
In the first picture, you have a new restaurant that is just opening up and is aiming for self promotion. It claims to have a chef who has received his training from the prestigious Gordonbleu. I'm sorry, but, where is that exactly? I don't know about the rest of you, but I've only ever heard of the school for the culinary arts, Le Cordon Bleu. You can pretty much bet that I won't be dining there any time soon (or ever)!
In the second picture, you have your typical building directory. However, at this place, instead of the bold star being the indicator of your present location in the building, it is asking you Are you here? Needless to say, I was so tempted to pull out a sharpie and answer with an I dunno..Am I here? Instead, I chose what any other normal person would do in these circumstances, I took a picture of it for the purpose of sharing.
Lastly, I was meeting with some friends at a local (and very chill) bar somewhere off the infamous Sukhumvit Rd. Since I was the first to arrive, I decided to take pleasure in perusing the menu to get an idea of what I might like to order later and pleasure was exactly what I found. Actually, it was more like amusement. Aside from the so many mixers the place had to offer, I noticed that this place offered something uniquely different--something known as a cockage charge. What in the world could that possibly be? It sounds rather lethal. And I can't help but wonder, does it come with a side of Happy Ending? :o)
It's a wonder that with all the native English speakers found throughout Thailand that Thais do not think to entreat them for their assistance in spelling and grammar.
These are just a few examples of countless more spotted all over the wonderful Land of Smiles. If you'd like to see more, I will try my best to continue searching for and sharing them. Or perhaps you should visit Thailand where you can see them for yourself. ;o)
Friday, November 5, 2010
A Trip Down Memory Lane :o)
Earlier this week I had the privilege of taking a few days off (finally!) and going on a mini-holiday. I decided to go to Baltimore to visit with some old friends that I haven't seen in a very long time (ranging from 5-20 years..no joke)! The friend whom I haven't seen in about 20 years (actually, my sister's friend) and I have recently gotten back in contact with one another thanks to the wonderful social network known as Facebook. Even though it was for a matter of a few days, it was an eventful trip (in the sense of meeting up with everyone I had wanted to see and just hanging out) and very fulfilling. Let's recap the events of the trip, shall we?
I took a flight to Baltimore first thing Sunday morning and arrived just in time to meet with friends for a Dim Sum lunch. Fortunately, I was able to get (almost) every single one of my friends together for this occassion. Out of the four that came (Mati, Daniel, TJ, and KC), only two of them knew each other (cousins) and because each of them mean so much to me, it was high time that they all got to meet one another. :o)
After lunch, I spent the rest of the afternoon into the evening hanging with two friends (Mati and Pailin) from my childhood (they are brother and sister, respectively). We visited with the parents and with Pailin and her family. Pailin is all grown up and now has kids of her own; two very adorable little girls with a boy on the way! Being that it was Halloween, I got to see the kiddies dressed up in their costumes going door to door in the crazy cold weather. Then it was time for Mati and I to get ready to head out ourselves. We went to a local bar in Towson and met up with the friends we saw at lunch along with my friend, Matt from 20 years ago. The bar happened to be next door to where I used to work back in college! There were some very good costumes that night. (See for yourself below.)
Monday was just a laid back day. Rather uneventful, but lovely nonetheless. I spent the day with Mati, Pailin, and their family. It was really a joy to see them for being with them was sort of like being home. I had spent so many days of my childhood playing over at their house and even though they have both moved out, they all still live in the same neighborhood.
Tuesday Mati (who pretty much was my chauffeur) and I met up with my friends, TJ and KC (cousins) and their wives for lunch at this extraordinary Lebanese place downtown. After that, we all just spent the afternoon hanging around by the harbor. Tuesday night, Mati and I met up with Daniel and Matt for dinner at a cool Korean dive in Ellicott City. Before I knew it, it was time to pack my bag and get ready to head home in the morning. Sigh......
It was such a great trip and I would like to thank everyone that helped to make it special. Thank you to each of you who have sacrificed your time (this includes you, Daniel) to see to it that I made the most of my few days off. I have always said, and will say again, I am very lucky to have such awesome friends!!!
I took a flight to Baltimore first thing Sunday morning and arrived just in time to meet with friends for a Dim Sum lunch. Fortunately, I was able to get (almost) every single one of my friends together for this occassion. Out of the four that came (Mati, Daniel, TJ, and KC), only two of them knew each other (cousins) and because each of them mean so much to me, it was high time that they all got to meet one another. :o)
After lunch, I spent the rest of the afternoon into the evening hanging with two friends (Mati and Pailin) from my childhood (they are brother and sister, respectively). We visited with the parents and with Pailin and her family. Pailin is all grown up and now has kids of her own; two very adorable little girls with a boy on the way! Being that it was Halloween, I got to see the kiddies dressed up in their costumes going door to door in the crazy cold weather. Then it was time for Mati and I to get ready to head out ourselves. We went to a local bar in Towson and met up with the friends we saw at lunch along with my friend, Matt from 20 years ago. The bar happened to be next door to where I used to work back in college! There were some very good costumes that night. (See for yourself below.)
Monday was just a laid back day. Rather uneventful, but lovely nonetheless. I spent the day with Mati, Pailin, and their family. It was really a joy to see them for being with them was sort of like being home. I had spent so many days of my childhood playing over at their house and even though they have both moved out, they all still live in the same neighborhood.
Tuesday Mati (who pretty much was my chauffeur) and I met up with my friends, TJ and KC (cousins) and their wives for lunch at this extraordinary Lebanese place downtown. After that, we all just spent the afternoon hanging around by the harbor. Tuesday night, Mati and I met up with Daniel and Matt for dinner at a cool Korean dive in Ellicott City. Before I knew it, it was time to pack my bag and get ready to head home in the morning. Sigh......
It was such a great trip and I would like to thank everyone that helped to make it special. Thank you to each of you who have sacrificed your time (this includes you, Daniel) to see to it that I made the most of my few days off. I have always said, and will say again, I am very lucky to have such awesome friends!!!
Friday, October 22, 2010
Cooper!!
Ok. I have this dog back in Bangkok. His name is Cooper (or as I often affectionately call him, Coop). He is a little long-haired chihuahua. I've been away from my baby for nearly 3 months now and I miss him like crazy. Never had I thought I would ever own a chihuahua as they tend to be hyper & yappy. This is also true for my little Cooper. Although, at first, I thought I was very lucky.
When Cooper first came to me, he was quiet--so quiet that my friends thought that he couldn't speak. He made very little sound. But, I think this was due to the fact that he was just still getting used to his new surroundings of having a proper home with his new mommy. You see, I had rescued him as he was an abandoned puppy. Seeing his face, I thought "How could anyone not love him? How could someone give him up?" And so Cooper became mine.
My mom and I have a history of taking in abandoned or stray dogs. We love dogs (no matter the breed or size). As a matter of fact, the last dog we had taken in is still with us today. He is a miniature dachshund named Pretzel and he lives with my mom in Georgia. We've had him since he was a little pup of 2 years and he is now 10 years old. We strongly believe that Pretzel had been abused by his previous owner because when he first came to us he was easily scared (still is) and would always run away leaving a wet trail behind him. And, whenever we would reach out to pet him, he would cower in fear and slowly crawl his way to us once he realized we meant no harm.
Anyway, back to my little Cooper now. I left him in the care of a friend of mine (bless her) and I hear that he is doing very well. He has many friends in his temporary residence and has even got a girlfriend, a Siberian husky named Soda. Cooper is a very friendly pup that loves to be around people. He was easy to train (for the most part). I really do hope that he misses his mommy too and that he hasn't already forgotten about her. :o)
My handsome lil' rat dog..I mean..Cooper! :o)
Cooper & his girlfriend Soda.
I hear they are always sleeping together.
Soda trying to sleep in Coop's crate.
The original King, Pretzel.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Matchmaking Services
In today’s society, the likes of matchmaking services are becoming more and more popular every day. You see it being advertised on T.V., on billboards, and they have even made their way into the movies. It’s kind of become part of the pop-culture. I personally know quite a few people who have met their partners or soul mates, if you will, through the use of such a service. I, however, am uncertain if I could ever use it myself.
You see, I’d like to think that I am capable enough to be able to find someone for myself; that I still have what it takes to be able to meet someone and form a relationship with that person the old fashion way. But, it doesn’t stop my mind from being curious about this whole match-making thing. Sometimes I’m almost tempted to check it out just out of sheer curiosity.
Once upon a time I used to be against the thought of my parents or any elderly member of my family trying to set me up with someone. You see, to them, it was just a mere introduction. To me, on the other hand, it was practically an arranged marriage.
Being that I am part Chinese, you have no idea the number of times my mother (especially) would try to set me up with someone. She didn’t just set me up now. Sometimes, she would practically clear the path, roll out the carpet, throw flowers down the way, and was certain she could hear the “I-Dos”. Okay, so maybe I’m exaggerating a little. I’m just trying to help you get a better idea of how it is sometimes. If you are Chinese, I’m sure you know just what I’m talking about.
That was when I was younger and didn’t know any better. These days, I don’t mind the casual introductions. More like, I beg for it! I am sometimes so distraught on not being able to meet someone on my own that I have come to learn that it’s okay to get a little help from those who have your best interest at heart. Although I now let those around me help in my search, I will only go so far as just the introduction. I tell them to leave the rest up to me because you basically have to chalk it up to chemistry. If there is no chemistry or it simply doesn’t click, there’s nothing anyone can do. You can’t force a relationship if there is no spark, no matter how good the pairing may seem. It would be like trying to light a fire without heat. Without the heat or spark, you simply have two pieces of stick.
Despite the fact that I have since changed my ways about a simple introduction on the chance of actually meeting someone who could very well one day be a potential, I am not sure that I am ready to make the leap in trusting other sources to help me find my match. I am, however, not completely against the idea either. I guess the only way to know is to just wait and see. Stick around and we may very well find out in the next few years.
You see, I’d like to think that I am capable enough to be able to find someone for myself; that I still have what it takes to be able to meet someone and form a relationship with that person the old fashion way. But, it doesn’t stop my mind from being curious about this whole match-making thing. Sometimes I’m almost tempted to check it out just out of sheer curiosity.
Once upon a time I used to be against the thought of my parents or any elderly member of my family trying to set me up with someone. You see, to them, it was just a mere introduction. To me, on the other hand, it was practically an arranged marriage.
Being that I am part Chinese, you have no idea the number of times my mother (especially) would try to set me up with someone. She didn’t just set me up now. Sometimes, she would practically clear the path, roll out the carpet, throw flowers down the way, and was certain she could hear the “I-Dos”. Okay, so maybe I’m exaggerating a little. I’m just trying to help you get a better idea of how it is sometimes. If you are Chinese, I’m sure you know just what I’m talking about.
That was when I was younger and didn’t know any better. These days, I don’t mind the casual introductions. More like, I beg for it! I am sometimes so distraught on not being able to meet someone on my own that I have come to learn that it’s okay to get a little help from those who have your best interest at heart. Although I now let those around me help in my search, I will only go so far as just the introduction. I tell them to leave the rest up to me because you basically have to chalk it up to chemistry. If there is no chemistry or it simply doesn’t click, there’s nothing anyone can do. You can’t force a relationship if there is no spark, no matter how good the pairing may seem. It would be like trying to light a fire without heat. Without the heat or spark, you simply have two pieces of stick.
Despite the fact that I have since changed my ways about a simple introduction on the chance of actually meeting someone who could very well one day be a potential, I am not sure that I am ready to make the leap in trusting other sources to help me find my match. I am, however, not completely against the idea either. I guess the only way to know is to just wait and see. Stick around and we may very well find out in the next few years.
Settle?? Never!!!
There’s nothing quite like getting together with your family and friends around the holidays or New Year (be it American, Thai, or Chinese New Year) when your relationship status becomes a point of conversation and you receive the most pressure during this time because this is when most of them assemble.
Part of the reason that I am still on the search is probably my own doing. I’ve been told time and again that I am way too picky. There is no such thing as “a perfect man” nor is there “a perfect woman”. I know I’m nowhere near being perfect. But, I do believe that there is such a thing as being perfect for someone and with each person having his or her own criteria, there is sure to be someone in this vast world who would mold to fit the idea of “perfect”.
I’ve been told that I am too picky or selective, that my expectations are too high, that I need to set my standards lower. My thought is always “Don’t I deserve all that I desire?” Surely I will be able to find someone out there who will end up loving me as much as I love him. Is it really that impossible?
A good friend of mine once told me that I should not set my bar so high because I will never find my Mr. Right. I told him that although I don’t mind finding myself a Mr. Right This Moment, that sometimes it is not enough. He proceeded to tell me that’s why I needed to lower my standards otherwise I will never find such a person. Mind you, this is a friend of mine whom at the time was unhappily married and did not have the guts to get out of it despite the fact that staying together meant a very unhealthy relationship for the both of them. Don’t get me wrong. I am in no way for people getting a divorce, but if you have truly tried to work at the relationship and there’s nothing more that can be done and staying together only adds to your continued unhappiness, then you should do what’s best for the both of you and get out. With that being said, I am not an expert on these things so do not take my word to heart. It is just something I truly believe. And because of my strong belief in this matter, I replied to him the only way I knew how. I told him I did not want to settle like he did and be unhappy for the rest of my life. Cruel, I know. But I was honest. I told him I would rather spend the rest of my days searching and hoping that I find that person than to regret later for having settled. Needless to say, he finally got around to getting out of his unhappy marriage and has since moved on and is the happiest I’ve seen him in a long time.
I’ve also been told time and again that I don’t open myself enough to the opportunity of meeting someone; that most often I come off as “stuck up”. My response to that is it takes a moment for me to loosen up and open myself up to people. But when I do, it is like finding a gem that is buried deep within the earth’s crust. I like to think of myself as something worth the work in digging and worth the patience to get through the sometimes rough surfaces. Once you stick around long enough through the labor and really allow yourself to get to know who I am, you will get to see how I can really shine and you will learn that I am one worth keeping. I am not trying to sound conceited, by all means, I am just being honest. I know who I am and I hope to someday find someone who is smart enough to stick around and discover that for himself. I have high confidence that I am a rarity (especially in today’s world). You don’t have to take my word for it, just take the time to get to know me a bit more. I promise you will not be disappointed. ;o)
Something I found that really drives my point home.
Part of the reason that I am still on the search is probably my own doing. I’ve been told time and again that I am way too picky. There is no such thing as “a perfect man” nor is there “a perfect woman”. I know I’m nowhere near being perfect. But, I do believe that there is such a thing as being perfect for someone and with each person having his or her own criteria, there is sure to be someone in this vast world who would mold to fit the idea of “perfect”.
I’ve been told that I am too picky or selective, that my expectations are too high, that I need to set my standards lower. My thought is always “Don’t I deserve all that I desire?” Surely I will be able to find someone out there who will end up loving me as much as I love him. Is it really that impossible?
A good friend of mine once told me that I should not set my bar so high because I will never find my Mr. Right. I told him that although I don’t mind finding myself a Mr. Right This Moment, that sometimes it is not enough. He proceeded to tell me that’s why I needed to lower my standards otherwise I will never find such a person. Mind you, this is a friend of mine whom at the time was unhappily married and did not have the guts to get out of it despite the fact that staying together meant a very unhealthy relationship for the both of them. Don’t get me wrong. I am in no way for people getting a divorce, but if you have truly tried to work at the relationship and there’s nothing more that can be done and staying together only adds to your continued unhappiness, then you should do what’s best for the both of you and get out. With that being said, I am not an expert on these things so do not take my word to heart. It is just something I truly believe. And because of my strong belief in this matter, I replied to him the only way I knew how. I told him I did not want to settle like he did and be unhappy for the rest of my life. Cruel, I know. But I was honest. I told him I would rather spend the rest of my days searching and hoping that I find that person than to regret later for having settled. Needless to say, he finally got around to getting out of his unhappy marriage and has since moved on and is the happiest I’ve seen him in a long time.
I’ve also been told time and again that I don’t open myself enough to the opportunity of meeting someone; that most often I come off as “stuck up”. My response to that is it takes a moment for me to loosen up and open myself up to people. But when I do, it is like finding a gem that is buried deep within the earth’s crust. I like to think of myself as something worth the work in digging and worth the patience to get through the sometimes rough surfaces. Once you stick around long enough through the labor and really allow yourself to get to know who I am, you will get to see how I can really shine and you will learn that I am one worth keeping. I am not trying to sound conceited, by all means, I am just being honest. I know who I am and I hope to someday find someone who is smart enough to stick around and discover that for himself. I have high confidence that I am a rarity (especially in today’s world). You don’t have to take my word for it, just take the time to get to know me a bit more. I promise you will not be disappointed. ;o)
Something I found that really drives my point home.
Living Single at 30+
As you can probably guess from the title of this blog, I am in my thirties, and yes, I am single. Never would I have imagined that I would still be single at this age. I am not only single by definition of unmarried. I am single by definition of no relationship. Zero. And I’ve been this way for nearly 5 years now. It’s sad, really, especially since once upon a time I had given myself a timeline. That being said, I learned, NEVER give yourself a timeline on such things in life. EVER. It will haunt you until the day you have achieved said thing.
In my case, I am way behind schedule. How, you ask? Well, I once had a dream that I would get married at the tender age of 25 (it seemed like a good age—not too young, not too old) and would have my first child at 28. Now, I am in my thirties and am nowhere near either of those things. I’m not even close to being in a relationship! That is not to say that I haven’t been having my fun. There have been some casual dating since my last serious relationship, but I have been unfortunate in finding anyone worth holding on to. Luckily, I have some awesome friends to help me pass the time and make being single rather enjoyable. So for now, I guess, it’s Happy Dating!
In my case, I am way behind schedule. How, you ask? Well, I once had a dream that I would get married at the tender age of 25 (it seemed like a good age—not too young, not too old) and would have my first child at 28. Now, I am in my thirties and am nowhere near either of those things. I’m not even close to being in a relationship! That is not to say that I haven’t been having my fun. There have been some casual dating since my last serious relationship, but I have been unfortunate in finding anyone worth holding on to. Luckily, I have some awesome friends to help me pass the time and make being single rather enjoyable. So for now, I guess, it’s Happy Dating!
No Time to Write!
The past few months have been so hectic and have kept me very busy. I have been tied up with everything from trying to look for a new job, to the unexpected trip back to the states to open the restaurant, to the long hours working at the restaurant. I simply have not had much time to devote to my writing (much less to blogging). And when I do find some time, I have to admit, writing and blogging is the last thing I think about.
But, I believe that I have now caught up on the blogging. As for the writing, my novel mainly, I hope to get back to real soon. As a matter of fact, let me just go ahead and wrap this up and get right to it!
I hope that you have all enjoyed reading and catching up on what’s been going on my corner of the world and I thank you for your interest. Catch you all next time!
But, I believe that I have now caught up on the blogging. As for the writing, my novel mainly, I hope to get back to real soon. As a matter of fact, let me just go ahead and wrap this up and get right to it!
I hope that you have all enjoyed reading and catching up on what’s been going on my corner of the world and I thank you for your interest. Catch you all next time!
Good Times Catching Up with Old Friends
Part I
So recently I had gone to dinner with a couple of friends that I have not seen in a while. My mother and cousin as well as my cousin’s girlfriend and a family friend were also there. At the end of the dinner, my mother (being Asian and the eldest) took responsibility in taking care of the tab for all of us.
After dinner, everyone (excluding my mom) and I went over to a friend’s bar to hang out and do some more catching up. It proved to be such a good time and was just the break I needed from so many days of nonstop, tiring work. We talked and we laughed, reminiscing about the old times and sharing stories of things new.
Part II
On Sunday, I had spent the early part of the evening walking around downtown with one of my girlfriends who had driven all the way from Greenville, SC just to come and spend some time with me. Mind you, this woman is busier than I am as she is a resident OBGYN. But, being that she is the one with a car and could get an entire day off, she took liberty in doing the traveling so that we could see each other. Ah, the beauty of friendship.
We parked sort of on the outskirts of downtown and took a leisurely stroll down Broad Street to take in the surroundings. We took notice of shops that have closed down and the new ones that have opened up in its place. We also noted the ones that have managed to remain, some of them bringing fond memories for the both of us.
Then we headed to a part of downtown where an arts festival was taking place. It happened to be the annual Arts in the Heart of Augusta festival. This event also holds many memories for me as I used to participate in it for years doing everything from volunteer concession work to performing traditional Thai dances. It is an event that brings together all of the community from many different backgrounds and ethnicities, a chance for anyone and everyone to demonstrate proudly where they have derived from.
After we made a few short rounds at the festival, we finally decided on a location to meet with another girlfriend of ours for dinner. This occasion was much to be anticipated and has been long overdue as the two friends in question have had a (rather big) falling out a couple of years back, and I was kind of stuck in between them; spending time with each separately. But, alas! The time has come for the girls to put their rift aside and finally make amends and amend they did. Whew!
We spent the evening eating, chit-chatting, and laughing our heads off. Oh the fun (and the trouble) the three of us could get into when we are together. I really was glad that the three of us were finally able to ALL be together again.
My BDay 2010-Good Things Happen When You Set the Bar Low
I was really not looking forward to my birthday at all this year and it had nothing to do with the fact that I was turning 31. What it did have to do with, however, was the fact that I would be celebrating it in boring Augusta, Georgia. Most of the friends that I did have here or still do have either moved away or are too busy (unlike my friends in Bangkok, who are for the most part still unmarried and work a normal 9-5 job). What is a single, 31 year-old girl (that’s right, I said it) to do? Try to make the most of it, of course!
We started off with dinner among my mom and a few close friends. Then some of us headed downtown to continue the celebrations at one of my friend’s newly opened bar. At first, there were not many people there (to the point that we thought of going elsewhere). Then as it grew later, more and more people started to arrive. Most of them being people I didn’t know. However, of the people that I did know that started to show up (all of them being Filipino), I was very surprised and happy to see them as I have not seen them in so many years. It soon became like a little mini-reunion and an Asian (if not, Filipino) invasion in the place. As word got around that it was my birthday, these friends started to buy me drinks and shots. I’m not sure whether they did so more because it was my birthday or because they hadn’t seen me in a very long time. I’d like to think that it was a little bit of both.
The Big Day
The The Big Day is finally here. THR33 opened its doors to the people of Thomson, GA on August 26, 2010. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation (from the staff as well as the customers), excitement, and a bit of worry as I wonder how we would do. Were we really ready for this? How would people around here react to our establishment? Would they like the food?
Despite a few kinks that need to be ironed out through the course of time and adjustment, I think we are doing well. I was and am greatly thankful for those who were patient and understanding of this. Many have told us that they were glad to finally be getting some variety of food around here. I heard more than once that they were glad we had come to them.
There was one thing that I just couldn’t seem to get my head around, though. People in this part of the country really do not know how to tip. Considering how many had come through our doors on opening day, about 90 percent of them left $0 in tips. Don’t worry, you didn’t read that incorrectly: ZERO, as in nothing, in tips. Wow. I really don’t think it had anything to do with the food or the service (as some people that I know here have told me that this is the norm). I really hope that this wouldn’t always be the case, otherwise I would feel really bad for my servers.
Now we are fast approaching our one-month mark. I am happy to say that the tips have improved, although by general standards, it’s still not much. Let’s just say that, on average, the population here tends to tip a mere 10% compared to the standard 15-18% elsewhere. Luckily, my servers remain positive. “It’s not much, but at least it’s something.” Amen to that!
Despite a few kinks that need to be ironed out through the course of time and adjustment, I think we are doing well. I was and am greatly thankful for those who were patient and understanding of this. Many have told us that they were glad to finally be getting some variety of food around here. I heard more than once that they were glad we had come to them.
There was one thing that I just couldn’t seem to get my head around, though. People in this part of the country really do not know how to tip. Considering how many had come through our doors on opening day, about 90 percent of them left $0 in tips. Don’t worry, you didn’t read that incorrectly: ZERO, as in nothing, in tips. Wow. I really don’t think it had anything to do with the food or the service (as some people that I know here have told me that this is the norm). I really hope that this wouldn’t always be the case, otherwise I would feel really bad for my servers.
Now we are fast approaching our one-month mark. I am happy to say that the tips have improved, although by general standards, it’s still not much. Let’s just say that, on average, the population here tends to tip a mere 10% compared to the standard 15-18% elsewhere. Luckily, my servers remain positive. “It’s not much, but at least it’s something.” Amen to that!
Starting Yet Another Business
So here I am back in the states to help my mom start up yet another restaurant. This will be our third one in recent years. Come to think of it, the name of the restaurant is rather fitting as it is to be called THR33 (read simply as THREE).
Let me take us back a few weeks to fill you in on how we got here.
When my mother first called me from Georgia to tell me that she was considering opening another restaurant, she implied that it was going to be a small establishment serving only noodles; sort of like a fast-food pho joint, if you may. However, as the calls were becoming more frequent and more developments were being made, I was beginning to figure out that it’s not quite what she was trying to make it out to be. She was conferring with me as to what to name it. I told her, I’d need to know more about the concept she had in mind. This is kind of how the conversation went:
Me: “What is the concept that you had in mind?”
Mom: “It’s going to be fusion Thai, Japanese, and American.”
Me: “What?! I thought you said it was going to be small.”
Mom: “It’s not exactly small. It’s a bit bigger than Mai Thai.” (That’s the first restaurant we opened and is still in business).
Me: “What?! Mai Thai is pretty big! Mom, what exactly are you getting yourself into? Moreover, what are you getting us into?”
Over the course of many phone calls, I began to discover that the restaurant would not be fusion (as my mother had a misunderstanding of what fusion is), but would feature food from the three countries stated above. I quickly became busy and stressed with trying to find a flight home and getting everything ready on my end in a matter of two weeks.
Upon my arrival, my mother brings me to check out the location and the restaurant itself. I did a quick tour and soon discovered that not only is it bigger than Mai Thai, it is pretty much twice the size! Boy has my mother really gotten us into it this time.
Last Day of School at ASB
05/31/10
So we’ve reached the end of yet another school year. Though I am glad to be venturing onto something new, I am a bit saddened. I spent the last 3 years working at The American School of Bangkok, and in a sense, it has been home to me. As I spent my last day there, I was filled with mixed emotions. It was a very busy and hectic day of checking students out, turning in grades and comments and other things, cleaning up the classroom, packing, saying goodbye and signing out for the last time.
There have been a lot of memories made the 3 years I have been at the school. Some of them were good and some were not so good. Despite what they were, they were all significant to the school. I have learned much being there and have gained a lot of experiences that I know would further enrich who I am as a person as well as a professional.
I have also met some really incredible people, without whom, I would not have survived the 3 years so easily (and trust me, it was not easy). They have been my mentors, my confidants, and true team players. I will be forever grateful to them. As for students go, there were a few that have deeply touch my heart just as I’m sure (I hope) I have touched theirs. It is because of these few students that make the profession of being an educator all the worthwhile. I see in them a lot of potential that goes far beyond the classroom and school and am glad to know that I have helped them in some form (be it great or small) in realizing and achieving this potential. It is because of students like them that I have chosen to go into this profession to begin with; nothing to do with the money (as most know, teachers hardly make enough for what they are really worth). However, the one thing that we do make, as a fellow educator, Taylor Mali once said is “Teachers make a difference”.
So we’ve reached the end of yet another school year. Though I am glad to be venturing onto something new, I am a bit saddened. I spent the last 3 years working at The American School of Bangkok, and in a sense, it has been home to me. As I spent my last day there, I was filled with mixed emotions. It was a very busy and hectic day of checking students out, turning in grades and comments and other things, cleaning up the classroom, packing, saying goodbye and signing out for the last time.
There have been a lot of memories made the 3 years I have been at the school. Some of them were good and some were not so good. Despite what they were, they were all significant to the school. I have learned much being there and have gained a lot of experiences that I know would further enrich who I am as a person as well as a professional.
I have also met some really incredible people, without whom, I would not have survived the 3 years so easily (and trust me, it was not easy). They have been my mentors, my confidants, and true team players. I will be forever grateful to them. As for students go, there were a few that have deeply touch my heart just as I’m sure (I hope) I have touched theirs. It is because of these few students that make the profession of being an educator all the worthwhile. I see in them a lot of potential that goes far beyond the classroom and school and am glad to know that I have helped them in some form (be it great or small) in realizing and achieving this potential. It is because of students like them that I have chosen to go into this profession to begin with; nothing to do with the money (as most know, teachers hardly make enough for what they are really worth). However, the one thing that we do make, as a fellow educator, Taylor Mali once said is “Teachers make a difference”.
Another Year of Prom
So last week I had attended the school's prom for the 3rd and last year. It was held at the Swissotel Le Concord. This year, not only did I have a date (yes, even teachers have dates to these things), but one of my closest friends was in attendance as well. She was invited as the date of a fellow colleague and friend. This helped to make the event more enjoyable. Furthermore, since I had taught a few high school classes this year, I also knew more students and this added to my enjoyment of the occasion.
It was very interesting to see, among the students, who came with who, who are now dating each other or liking each other, but most importantly, it was very nice to see them all so dressed up and looking proper. I sound like an old maid! Lol.
My favorite part of the evening, I'd have to say, was when I first saw one of my former students all dressed up looking so sweet and pretty! You are probably wondering what is so surprising about that. Well, this student is known all around the school as a tomboy, you see. In fact, I mentioned her briefly in one of my earlier blogs about Valentine's Day. Although I had gone with her when she went shopping for her prom dress, I still didn't recognize her. What a sight she was! I was brimming with pride like a proud parent. After all, don't some of your students kind of become like your offspring? You, just like the parent (and sometimes, more so) are the one teaching them new things all the time, guiding them along the way. You work laboriously to make sure that they realize and reach their potential. You correct their mistakes and reprimand them when they go off course. You teach them to dream and to know that anything is possible so long as they put their mind to it and work hard.
Prom here is certainly nothing like prom in the states where it was ALL about the dance. The evening was filled with an entirely packed schedule of shows and performances and no dancing (except for the falied attempted Royal Court dance). However, all in all, it was a great event. Perhaps the most sucessful of the years in which I had attended.
The Land of Smiles
As I sat in front of the TV in my condo last night watching the news, I felt a strong need to express my thoughts (as well as others, I'm sure) about the political situation in Thailand. It is very saddening to see that a once beautiful nation full of friendly people could find no other way to satisfy their want for a "just" government except to lead the country into a civil war. What ever happened to the love of one's country or to the love of one's self? Coincidentally, it is perhaps due to too much love of one's self that we have come to this. We were once known as a humble race. We need to stop the greed, put a lid on our egos and work together as one nation before the country we all claim to love will no longer be. For unless we really work together, we will all surely lose.
The Land of Smiles
We lived in one great nation
A place we all called home
Where kindness was a virtue
And freely we once roamed
Those who came to visit
Would rave about our style
Of life that we had here
In the exotic land of smiles
Where everywhere you went
Someone always lent a hand
Be it to a neighbor close-by
Or of a far away land
This all has been replaced
By too much selfishness and greed
Everyone demanding what they want
Forgetting what we need
In place of all the smiles
Are now bloodstained tears
Uncertainty of what is to come
A lot of hatred and fear
Are you too ignorant to see
We're just hurting ourselves?
Stop thinking of one person
And think of everyone else
Work together as one nation
One love and one race
Let's all work together now
To put the smiles back in place.
Happy Heart
On Saturday, some friends of mine and I went to Ratchaburi, a small province outside of Bangkok. We have been collecting donations of money and school supplies (sports equipment, books, a computer and printer, crayons, tables, etc.) to take to an under-privileged school there. It was such a heart-warming experience that by the end of the day I had felt really content and my heart was happy.
We were a bit late upon arrival due to worse than the usual traffic leaving town (thanks to the Red Shirts). At our arrival, we were greeted by the Principal of the school along with some of the students, their parents, and other staff members.
We unloaded the van, had a few pictures taken, and then were led to see a Muay Thai performance by some of the students at the school. The beginning of the performance was a ritual known as the "Wai Kru" or paying respect to your teacher/master. After that, they did some choreographed fights. It was spectacular! These kids have won regional tournaments.
After we watched the Muay Thai, the students and their parents as well as the staff, gathered around as we presented the school with all of the things we have brought for them. Then we were taken into a room where we were served lunch on behalf of the staff. Later, my friends and I took a tour around the school so that we could see, first hand, what going to school was like for these children. I turned to a couple of my friends (with whom I work with) and said "Imagine if some of our students saw this. They have no idea how lucky they are to have all the things that they have, to go to the school that they go to." And after having engaged in some conversation with these kids and seeing how very appreciative they were of all of us and our efforts to help better their education, we agreed that our students could really learn a thing or two from them.
Needless to say, our mission was accomplished and we have all walked away a better person. I don't know about everyone else that went along, but after something as special as that, my heart was happy. I have helped to make a difference in someone's life, even if just by a little bit.
A special thanks to the main organizers of this great event, my dear friends Kippe and Anita. I would also like to thank those who were a part of the event whether through their help in donations and/or in their attendance of the big day: Christian, Jen, Aaron, Lisa, Dustin, Sarah Jane, Shawn, Britney, Laurice, and Jodi.
Taxis in Bangkok
Riding a taxi in Bangkok can often be compared to riding some crazy amusement park ride as one could easily suffer from whiplash and other injuries as well as go through the same nauseating feelings and the flipping of your stomach. Although this is not true for every taxi ride here, it is more likely so than not.
Taxi drivers in Bangkok either think they are the only ones on the road, that they actually OWN the road, or that they are on some kind of a race track with obstacles along the way. In other words, they are notorious for their reckless driving. It's obvious that in order to become a taxi driver in Bangkok, you do not need to have good driving skills; driving etiquette goes completely out the window.
I've known of taxi drivers who won't shut their mouths (whether they are talking to you or on their cell phones) to ones who only pick 'farang' (non-Asian) passengers to ones who get all up in your business to the ones who get all 'stalker-ish' with you. This has happened to me with one that I used regularly at one point. Needless to say, I 'fired' him. The polite, quiet ones are a rare to find these days--so rare that when you do find one, you can't help but be appreciative.
Why am I writing about taxis, you ask? I'm doing so because in recent days, some friends of mine and I have seem to be striking out when we hail a taxi for service. One of my closest friends was in an accident in two different taxis this past week. Another one was in a taxi who kept speeding even as she said that her turn was coming up soon that when they reached the turn, the driver couldn't slow down fast enough and had missed the turn and therefore had to back up (yes, they allow this in Thailand) and then turned into the exit.
As for myself, one morning as I was rushing to get to work, I hailed for a taxi. When he stopped, I opened the door and told him where I wanted to go, he hesitated and I asked 'Are you gonna go?' (this should've been a sign for me). He finally nodded yes. I stepped in, closed the door, only to find out that he doesn't want to take the route I tell him to go and I have to get out and find another taxi. Although it is against the law for them to turn away passengers, they do it all the time. On some occasions (like a late night out on the town, you're tired and just want to get home already), this gets very annoying!
The very next day, heading home from work, I experience the worst taxi ride of my life. I shared the ride with a colleague. The driver assumed we were both foreigners as we were speaking English to each other. After driving for several meters, he looks back at us and says 'Start meter?' to which I tell him in Thai, yes. He is shocked to discover that I speak Thai and that I may very well be Thai. When we get onto the main road, he drove like the most careless, reckless driver I've ever known--he certainly wasn't driving Miss Daisy! He was the equivalent of Speedy Gonzales going down Bangna's biggest road at about 150 km/hr, zig-zagging all over it. As he did this, he kept glancing back at me and smiling. I was in deep conversation with my colleague and every time that I would laugh or so much as chuckle, he would break into a maniacal laughter. It was really creepy. He continued to speed on and looking back to the point that I said to my colleague that he really should keep his eyes on the road. Then I yelled at him (politely) to slow down. He decelerated to less than half the speed he was going and traveled for several kilometers like this before picking up speed again. When we turned onto the busy street known as Sukhumvit Road, he zips around the traffic all the while looking back and laughing that we nearly crashed into another car. When at long last, we reached our destination at the train station, I was so happy to be getting out of the car. As I stepped out, the driver kept looking at me and saying 'Thank you'. My colleague and I simultaneously broke into fits of disbelief claiming that it had to be the worst ride either of us ever experienced before. As we got on the escalator, the taxi honked his horn a couple of times and kept looking over. I turned to my colleague and expressed how thankful I was that I wasn't the only one in the car, otherwise, I might have had to try and jump out at some point. In hindsight, I really wish that I had taken note of the driver's ID number as well as his plate number so that I could report him. After all, he was a radio taxi. It's kind of a disturbing thought to know that they have these kinds of people for hire when you call in for a taxi.
Despite it all, hiring a taxi is still one of the best modes of public transportation in Bangkok, but finding a good driver is almost like winning the lottery. Here's wishing you luck to picking a winner.
Taxi drivers in Bangkok either think they are the only ones on the road, that they actually OWN the road, or that they are on some kind of a race track with obstacles along the way. In other words, they are notorious for their reckless driving. It's obvious that in order to become a taxi driver in Bangkok, you do not need to have good driving skills; driving etiquette goes completely out the window.
I've known of taxi drivers who won't shut their mouths (whether they are talking to you or on their cell phones) to ones who only pick 'farang' (non-Asian) passengers to ones who get all up in your business to the ones who get all 'stalker-ish' with you. This has happened to me with one that I used regularly at one point. Needless to say, I 'fired' him. The polite, quiet ones are a rare to find these days--so rare that when you do find one, you can't help but be appreciative.
Why am I writing about taxis, you ask? I'm doing so because in recent days, some friends of mine and I have seem to be striking out when we hail a taxi for service. One of my closest friends was in an accident in two different taxis this past week. Another one was in a taxi who kept speeding even as she said that her turn was coming up soon that when they reached the turn, the driver couldn't slow down fast enough and had missed the turn and therefore had to back up (yes, they allow this in Thailand) and then turned into the exit.
As for myself, one morning as I was rushing to get to work, I hailed for a taxi. When he stopped, I opened the door and told him where I wanted to go, he hesitated and I asked 'Are you gonna go?' (this should've been a sign for me). He finally nodded yes. I stepped in, closed the door, only to find out that he doesn't want to take the route I tell him to go and I have to get out and find another taxi. Although it is against the law for them to turn away passengers, they do it all the time. On some occasions (like a late night out on the town, you're tired and just want to get home already), this gets very annoying!
The very next day, heading home from work, I experience the worst taxi ride of my life. I shared the ride with a colleague. The driver assumed we were both foreigners as we were speaking English to each other. After driving for several meters, he looks back at us and says 'Start meter?' to which I tell him in Thai, yes. He is shocked to discover that I speak Thai and that I may very well be Thai. When we get onto the main road, he drove like the most careless, reckless driver I've ever known--he certainly wasn't driving Miss Daisy! He was the equivalent of Speedy Gonzales going down Bangna's biggest road at about 150 km/hr, zig-zagging all over it. As he did this, he kept glancing back at me and smiling. I was in deep conversation with my colleague and every time that I would laugh or so much as chuckle, he would break into a maniacal laughter. It was really creepy. He continued to speed on and looking back to the point that I said to my colleague that he really should keep his eyes on the road. Then I yelled at him (politely) to slow down. He decelerated to less than half the speed he was going and traveled for several kilometers like this before picking up speed again. When we turned onto the busy street known as Sukhumvit Road, he zips around the traffic all the while looking back and laughing that we nearly crashed into another car. When at long last, we reached our destination at the train station, I was so happy to be getting out of the car. As I stepped out, the driver kept looking at me and saying 'Thank you'. My colleague and I simultaneously broke into fits of disbelief claiming that it had to be the worst ride either of us ever experienced before. As we got on the escalator, the taxi honked his horn a couple of times and kept looking over. I turned to my colleague and expressed how thankful I was that I wasn't the only one in the car, otherwise, I might have had to try and jump out at some point. In hindsight, I really wish that I had taken note of the driver's ID number as well as his plate number so that I could report him. After all, he was a radio taxi. It's kind of a disturbing thought to know that they have these kinds of people for hire when you call in for a taxi.
Despite it all, hiring a taxi is still one of the best modes of public transportation in Bangkok, but finding a good driver is almost like winning the lottery. Here's wishing you luck to picking a winner.
An Island Trip
03/01/10
So, we had a long weekend due to a Buddhist holiday known to Thais as Makha Bucha. A group of my friends and I decided we’d take a long overdue trip to the island of Koh Samet. We took off on our journey early Saturday morning at 7 a.m. Since there were many of us, we’d rented a van to transport us round trip and then (as always) took a speed boat to the island. Aside from our unscheduled drop off of a certain unpaid member of the Rayong area causing our boat to have complications and not be able to run again, our weekend was rather uneventful. Or, perhaps, it was true only for me as I’d called it early on both of the nights we were there; none of the crazy, long nights of partying til the wee hours like I would normally do when I’m on this island. However, it was an enjoyable and relaxing weekend nonetheless. As it often happens, I’ve come back to the City of Angels with barely a tan.
We arrived to the island to find it was practically over-flowing with people! For the first time in the many times I’ve been to this particular island, I found it full of beautiful people. I shamelessly say the men were HOT! As always, I brought a book with me (both to read and to write). Sad to say, I didn’t get very much reading accomplished; or the writing. I did, however, manage to write a great piece of poetry right before leaving the island to head back to the real world we all know as life and work.
On our second and last night there, we had dinner at a place known to some as Unseen Samet. The name is very befitting of the place as not many people know of it. It is a restaurant that is far in a remote area of the island that many don’t even know exists. It sits out in the middle of the ocean (tho not very far from the coast). In order to get there, you must ring a bell from the mainland. This is done as a way of calling for a boat. Then you get into this motor-less boat that uses a pulley to transport you back and forth between the restaurant and the mainland (a couple of years ago, the pulley was manual labor, meaning you had to do the pulling; now it’s a motorized pulley). When you get to the restaurant, you sit on the floor at low-tables with your feet dangling (much like the ones Japanese restaurants are known for) and several feet below you is the sea. The tables all have glass tops and there are lights underneath the floor so that you could get a chance to see the sights in the sea beneath
you.
The water, this time was so dirty. It was full of seaweed and trash. The seaweed may have had something to do with the fact that there was a full moon and something to do with the tides, but the trash, that was horrible! Gotta blame it on the people—the locals and travelers alike. It was just awful. And sad, really. One of my girlfriends and I managed to take some of it out of the water. We found anything from parts of a broken (PVC) pipeline to a piece of sturdy rope to a big sack they use to pack rice with! At one time, all my friend did was swish her hand through the water and when she had pulled it out, there was a plastic bag stuck to it. We were so disgusted that we got out of the water. The pieces of trash we had managed to collect, we took them to their proper place in the bin for we knew that if we just left them on the shore, they would surely be washed back out to sea when the tide comes up in the morning. I didn’t take very many pictures this time around and now that I think about it, I wish that I’d taken some pictures of the trash and the seaweed so that you could have an idea what I was talking about.
Also for the first time ever that I’ve been to this island, I have had my very first room with a view (and a splendid view it was)! I had shared a room with two other girlfriends of mine. It was something like an attic with a queen-sized bed and two connecting twin beds, a refrigerator, a dresser, and even a vanity with a mirror! Our one window in the room faces the ocean. It was a great room! Pity that the owners of the place have money stuck up their arses so high that they’ve forgotten how to smile or to appreciate any business that their customers bring to them. The husband and wife team was rude to the point I almost gave them a piece of my mind and if it wasn’t for the fact that we’d have nowhere else to go (cuz all the other places were fully booked..two of my friends who decided to join us last minute had to spend the night in a tent!), I would have gladly walked out of there taking my friends and our money with us. You’d think that after having booked four rooms with them and paid them in full, the wife would not have made a comment like “Hurry up. He’s not gonna have time to take you to your rooms later.”
All in all, it was a good trip. If for nothing else, then for time well spent with some of the greatest friends a girl can find within the large cosmopolitan (and sometimes lonely) city known as Bangkok—the city of angels of the east.
CNY
02/15/10
The Chinese New Year festivities continue. I head over to a cousin’s house and spend some time with her and her mom, both of whom I haven’t seen in a while. We have lunch together and by late afternoon, Auntie and I head to China Town. I had heard from a good friend of mine that there is a lot to see and plenty to eat there. Thinking about it, I rarely ever go to China Town, but I’ve never been there for Chinese New Year before. So, I decided to head there to check out and see what was in store.
I had asked Auntie how she would like to travel there and to my surprise she said she wanted to go by bus. It was the best and most certain way she knew of getting there on a day like today. So—off we go, Auntie and niece, by way of a bus. The first bus we were able to catch was rather unpleasant. Not only was it one of those non air-conditioned ones with fans that didn’t really work, but there was only one seat left at the front of the bus. I let my Auntie take the seat, of course. The driver then told me that I could sit on the compartment next to her seat. This thing was like a box that perhaps contained the engine of the bus. It was big and hot. I had figured that was probably what it was, but I sat down anyway. It was better than standing. After what seemed like forever, another two seats became available and I made to move, quickly. Auntie followed right behind me.
We got off about halfway to China Town to take a connection on another bus. This happened to be right in front of the Mandarin Hotel in town. As we waited for our connection, I couldn’t help but stand there being flushed with memories. You see, a dear friend of mine lives at the hotel. So many things have happened in this place—good and not so good. And, if I were to be so honest with myself, I’m not so sure if we are still friends. But alas, that’s a completely different story. Sigh.
Finally, our bus arrives and we take it the rest of the way to China Town. The streets are closed off for several blocks. It’s been a while since I’ve last come here and the place is (as expected) full of people. There are vendors everywhere selling food, drinks, clothes, food, accessories, food, keepsakes, and more food! Ah how I love going to these kinds of festivals! It’s all about culture and enjoyment.
Let me tell you a secret. I love chestnuts like you wouldn’t believe. I could eat them everyday. Some of my closest girlfriends know how much I love them that they like to pick on me about it. There were a lot of chestnuts being sold in China Town. As a matter of fact, my friend who had told me of the festivities there said that when she saw the chestnuts, she immediately thought of me. There were so many chestnut vendors that I was in chestnut heaven! The problem was—which vendor should I buy from? (@_@)
Auntie left within a couple of hours and I am then joined by one of my girlfriends. After a few hours of eating and shopping, I was greatly satisfied and was ready to head on home. I have had a fulfilling New Year. Gong Xi Fa Cai everyone!
The Chinese New Year festivities continue. I head over to a cousin’s house and spend some time with her and her mom, both of whom I haven’t seen in a while. We have lunch together and by late afternoon, Auntie and I head to China Town. I had heard from a good friend of mine that there is a lot to see and plenty to eat there. Thinking about it, I rarely ever go to China Town, but I’ve never been there for Chinese New Year before. So, I decided to head there to check out and see what was in store.
I had asked Auntie how she would like to travel there and to my surprise she said she wanted to go by bus. It was the best and most certain way she knew of getting there on a day like today. So—off we go, Auntie and niece, by way of a bus. The first bus we were able to catch was rather unpleasant. Not only was it one of those non air-conditioned ones with fans that didn’t really work, but there was only one seat left at the front of the bus. I let my Auntie take the seat, of course. The driver then told me that I could sit on the compartment next to her seat. This thing was like a box that perhaps contained the engine of the bus. It was big and hot. I had figured that was probably what it was, but I sat down anyway. It was better than standing. After what seemed like forever, another two seats became available and I made to move, quickly. Auntie followed right behind me.
We got off about halfway to China Town to take a connection on another bus. This happened to be right in front of the Mandarin Hotel in town. As we waited for our connection, I couldn’t help but stand there being flushed with memories. You see, a dear friend of mine lives at the hotel. So many things have happened in this place—good and not so good. And, if I were to be so honest with myself, I’m not so sure if we are still friends. But alas, that’s a completely different story. Sigh.
Finally, our bus arrives and we take it the rest of the way to China Town. The streets are closed off for several blocks. It’s been a while since I’ve last come here and the place is (as expected) full of people. There are vendors everywhere selling food, drinks, clothes, food, accessories, food, keepsakes, and more food! Ah how I love going to these kinds of festivals! It’s all about culture and enjoyment.
Let me tell you a secret. I love chestnuts like you wouldn’t believe. I could eat them everyday. Some of my closest girlfriends know how much I love them that they like to pick on me about it. There were a lot of chestnuts being sold in China Town. As a matter of fact, my friend who had told me of the festivities there said that when she saw the chestnuts, she immediately thought of me. There were so many chestnut vendors that I was in chestnut heaven! The problem was—which vendor should I buy from? (@_@)
Auntie left within a couple of hours and I am then joined by one of my girlfriends. After a few hours of eating and shopping, I was greatly satisfied and was ready to head on home. I have had a fulfilling New Year. Gong Xi Fa Cai everyone!
Strangers MV Shoot
02/13/10
So for those of you who don't already know, my brother-in-law is a film director. This year, he's had the pleasure to shoot a few music videos. One of the performers he helped to shoot for is a Vietnamese artist, who was referred to my brother-in-law by a friend and has since become a dear friend. Here is a sneak peek at shots from behind the scenes. Some other friends and I even had the honor of being an extra in one of the videos! We all had so much fun.
Happy Year of the Tiger!
02/13/10
Happy Chinese New Year! Gong Xi Fa Cai! Gong Hey Fat Choy! Sin Jia Yu Ie! However you say it, it's all the same. I hope that you all have a wonderful new year. May this lunar year bring you much love, hope, happiness, luck, prosperity, and wealth. It is one of the rare occasions in the year in which a good number of my family gather in one place. We pray to our ancestors, we mingle and catch up on life. And, we EAT. As always there's food, food, and more food! So much food! A delightful array of food to tempt your palate. I love dining at a Chinese table, or as the Thais call it, Toh Jeen. It's a large round table with a lazy susan placed atop it to ensure that each member at the table is able to have access to every single dish. The day is pretty much spent going from one family's house to another eating and conversing until we've all had more than enough to fill our stomachs to the point that we're practically bursting at the seams.
Menu included 3 whole chickens (steamed), 3 whole ducks (steamed), fish maw soup, 1 whole steamed fish, Chinese Kale (broccoli) stir-fried, pork ribs in red sauce, steamed shrimp; dessert was a large serving of sticky rice and mango (some of the best we've ever had!), fresh papaya, bing cherries, caramel custard (flan), as well as more traditional Chinese treats.
P.S. Below you will see a picture I've included of the piece of shrimp. It was the first (and possibly the only) piece of shrimp my sister has ever peeled for me my entire life. It was a happy moment for me & so I took a picture. My sister loves me! Hahaha.
Valentine's at Work
02/12/10
So the school is full with Valentine activity today. The students as well as the staff has really gotten into the spirit of this amorous holiday reserved for those who are in love or hope to be in love. We're not even half-way through the day yet and I've already received 3 serenades (all from my lovely colleagues..females..so you can all stop with your teacher-student assumptions..lol).
I was surprised (as well as a bit embarrassed and very flattered) when a group of 4 students came into my classroom to serenade me. Although, I wasn't quite sure what my dear colleague and friend was trying to tell me with her selection of the song "All By Myself". I'll be sure to ask her later.
When they came back a second time, I was astonished still. "Another song?" I asked. They told me I actually had 2 more songs they were going to serenade to me. "You're popular, Miss." These boys were very good with their serenading. I was very impressed by their talent. They (as well as the ladies who sent them) have made my day, which to tell you the truth, had not started out so good. I also received chocolates from students and colleagues alike as well as a heart-shaped balloon. Whether I am at a point in my life when I am single or not, I've always enjoyed this holiday. Not really for the reasons most would think, but because I enjoy looking around and seeing the many different ways that people express their feelings for one another. A romantic? Perhaps.
Watching the students interact with one another throughout the day has been a delight. I have seen new crushes and relationships budding in front of me and, I have to say, it makes me think back to my younger days. Memories of that time suddenly floods my mind as I recall what it was like to experience your first crush and even your first love. The innocence of going through the emotions that are often new to you.
I had a former student run into my classroom this morning gushing about her feelings for a certain boy. She tells me that she will tell her feelings to him today and ask him to the prom. She was very nervous as this is the first time she's ever liked a boy. All the years until now, she has always considered herself very much a tomboy. She's confided that she would like to work on changing that. She says, I'm getting older now and my views have changed. All I could do was smile, expressing my thoughts on this, and support her.
Oh the magic of Saint Valentine's Day. I look forward to what the next couple of days have in store for me. Have you said "I love you" to someone today?
So the school is full with Valentine activity today. The students as well as the staff has really gotten into the spirit of this amorous holiday reserved for those who are in love or hope to be in love. We're not even half-way through the day yet and I've already received 3 serenades (all from my lovely colleagues..females..so you can all stop with your teacher-student assumptions..lol).
I was surprised (as well as a bit embarrassed and very flattered) when a group of 4 students came into my classroom to serenade me. Although, I wasn't quite sure what my dear colleague and friend was trying to tell me with her selection of the song "All By Myself". I'll be sure to ask her later.
When they came back a second time, I was astonished still. "Another song?" I asked. They told me I actually had 2 more songs they were going to serenade to me. "You're popular, Miss." These boys were very good with their serenading. I was very impressed by their talent. They (as well as the ladies who sent them) have made my day, which to tell you the truth, had not started out so good. I also received chocolates from students and colleagues alike as well as a heart-shaped balloon. Whether I am at a point in my life when I am single or not, I've always enjoyed this holiday. Not really for the reasons most would think, but because I enjoy looking around and seeing the many different ways that people express their feelings for one another. A romantic? Perhaps.
Watching the students interact with one another throughout the day has been a delight. I have seen new crushes and relationships budding in front of me and, I have to say, it makes me think back to my younger days. Memories of that time suddenly floods my mind as I recall what it was like to experience your first crush and even your first love. The innocence of going through the emotions that are often new to you.
I had a former student run into my classroom this morning gushing about her feelings for a certain boy. She tells me that she will tell her feelings to him today and ask him to the prom. She was very nervous as this is the first time she's ever liked a boy. All the years until now, she has always considered herself very much a tomboy. She's confided that she would like to work on changing that. She says, I'm getting older now and my views have changed. All I could do was smile, expressing my thoughts on this, and support her.
Oh the magic of Saint Valentine's Day. I look forward to what the next couple of days have in store for me. Have you said "I love you" to someone today?
WELCOME!!
Welcome and thank you for stopping by my page. I hope you will enjoy my musings and the things that I write about here. I am still building up this site and hope to have a nice following soon. I will try my best to update and keep up with it as much as possible. Feel free to share your thoughts at any time.
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