My List

After much contemplation, here is my priority list as to what I want to become.  It's in a form of open questions so any ideas will not be restricted.  I hope I'll follow through.

1.  How can I be more Christ like?

2.  How can I help Jeannie strengthen her testimony in Christ and the importance of temple marriage?

2.   How can I help Jady and Evan enjoy and appreciate music?

3.   How can I financially support my parents?

4.  How can I be a good trader or a knowledgeable loan officer?

Let me put this to work and see how it goes... :)

Checking Into Life

It's uncle 7's birthday today.... I sobbed as I saw his birthday notification.  I can't believe I never realize his thoughtful intention to reconnect with us when he first created the "relative" group on fb.  I have no idea that he's been so weak and sick.  Things would have been different if I know.  But, why?  Why can't I be a little more sensitive, or genuine in the first place? Where have I been in the past few years?  I don't even remember to wish him happy birthday last year, and isn't it too late to say it now?  I really, really, really miss him, and I really, really, really hate myself for being slow to act.     

A couple weeks ago, I found out that dad wasn't feeling well when I thought he was fine all these time.  I hate that when mom didn't tell me when he is  is sick.  I wouldn't find out if I didn't call.  Yesterday, when I called them, dad told me that mom went to the Yan On hospital and got a shot because she's been having a really bad headache.  I talked to her several times on the phone, but I just can't stop worrying about her.  I was really upset last night as I found out that she went to play mahjong with her friends when she is supposed to take some rest.  She is leaving for a tour to China today with dad, and it's not making me worry less! I hope they have a good time and nothing happen.

Yeah, Jeannie was called to serve as a compassionate service leader!  I am so glad that she got to help and be part of others life.  The Bishop must be truly inspired since Jeannie is girl with a good heart.  I need to send her some note cards!  :D

Last weekend was great.  We drove to Christine M's house in VA.  We went to the temple on Sat., and spent another night with them so that I can learn some Chinese, Vietnamese dishes.  The trip to the temple was inspirational -- I was praying for some guidance on Jeannie, mom and myself.... the word "prioritize" keeps echoing in my head.... not once, but many, many, many, many times.  Looks like I need put my list in order before figuring out my next step.

The week before was fun.... Thanks so Sister Wright for asking me to be her accompanist.  It really is quite an experience, and I have the privilege to be asked to join the club - I think the average age of these ladies are 70.  I am not kidding, but I love old people.  Here is my except from fb:  

An old lady approached me after we were done with the performance, and through our conversation I found out that she is in fact 92-year-old. She invited me to join her club, and I thought for a moment because I wondered if I have time to practice. She probably see me puzzled, and made a comment that has been sticking in my mind: "Music is great, isn't it? You just want to play until you can't play

anymore!" Even though she doesn't play anymore, she keeps on coming, participating and supporting her friends every month. I am impressed with her attitude and her love and passion in music. Her remarks was insightful; not only in music, but in every aspects of life - we just have to be the best "player" we can be in everything that we do, and "play" until the day we died.

Live strong, waste not, for each day itself is a blessing.

Pauline

Best Thing In Life

Well, it's been a week since Jeannie was gone.  By the many fb messages and phone calls, I am finally convinced that she is really loving her college life.  She loves her classes and enjoys her time with her roommates.  I might sound like an old lady, but seriously... the best thing in life is to see your child being happy - it really is PRICELESS!!!!  :)

* No blood work for Jeannie until she comes back. Her Dr. said nothing is urgent and she ruled out the few serious diseases that I was worried about!  Yeah!!!! 

* My child also told me that she got a date on the 2nd day of school.... someone took her out to an ice-cream.  That silly girl felt bad about him paying, but Johnny said that she needs to get used to it!  :D I am sooooo happy for her... she is in Heaven!!!!!  Yes, yes, yes to church college.  It's been a wonderful blessing for her and us!!!!

Second Call

I'm so glad that my child call me again tonight!!!  She was actually shopping at the grocery store by herself. hum..... wish there's someone with her or help her carry the stuff to the dorm.  Thank goodness Johnny told me that the store is about 2 mins from her dorm.  She said she is going to eat cereal everyday... oh, no! my poor kid.  "what about waffles, and pancakes"?   Since there are not many options for her to pick, she bought ramen noodles, pasta and pasta sauce, mac and cheese, milk and cereal.  I wish I am there to cook for her.  But, I guess it's part of college life; and that we all learn and struggle from it.  Hope she will remember to go to the cafeteria and eat something good tomorrow!!!   wonder if she is home now... they have activities until 11pm. I hope she is having fun!  

On the other hand, I went to badminton with Johnny and Evan tonight.  It's so nice that I get to talk to the ladies there... and most importantly, they speak Cantonese! 

i was in the hallway talking when Jady ran to me panicking in tears.
jady: mommmmyyyyyy.....
me: (my first instinct: man, my baby got stuck by a bug).... what's the matter, jade?
jady: i swallow it.... sobbing....
me: what?
jady: i swallow it....
me: what did you swallow?
jady: the gum. can you take it out? (she open her month)
me: (check into her mouth; of course the gum was gone)... well, that's okay, don't worry, you'll be fine!
jady: can you not take me to the dentist?
me: why?
jady: coz daddy said the dentist will cut open my stomach to take it out! (poor child, she was very serious about it)
me: (laughing).... no, don't be silly.... you just need to poop it out.... (whispering in her ears)
jady: but what if it wouldn't come out?
me: oh yes, it will and mom is going to check on it!
jady: but i can't poop right now... (talking in my ears since her friend Athena was watching)
me: (can't hold my laugh anymore....) it's okay.... you can poop tomorrow!
jady: ooohhhh..... (she finally put on a smile)

gosh, that was too funny!!!!!

Adjustment!

I almost burst into tears when I heard my child over the phone!!!  No words can explain the joy that I had and knowing that she is enjoying herself, reuniting with old friends, and having fun.  I've been so worry about her adjustment, health and other related issues.  It's just overwhelming to me how much she has to go through.  I'm so glad that Johnny was there with her and walked her though the admission.  She is such a lucky girl!!  On the other hand, I still worry about her blood work...  needs to talk to Dr. Mellx for an advice again on Monday.  Don't want to call and bug my girl all the time because that's what I hate if my mom does that!  :D  Plus, she has such a tight schedule!  Thank goodness that we have facebook and email.... I'm happy and content now!

Sent Jeannie this email and hope she won't get homesick!!!!  

so we just went and read the book of mormon stories before jady and evan goes to bed. we were at the chapter of alma the younger and his conversion story....

evan: they are so lucky... they can wear their capes leisurely, see... (pointing at the pictures where he sees all the people wearing capes).

jady: starring at evan.... "so you wanna be a super hero when you grow up?"....

man.... where do they come from?? have a good nite, sweetheart! xoxoxo, mom 

She is Leaving...

The day has come.... I can't believe Jeannie is really leaving.  In a couple of  hours, she will be on the other side of the coast, meeting some awesome young single adults.  I had mixed emotions about this, but for now I am settled and  happy that she is actually leaving Philly. 

Heavenly Father knows our struggles, and this is the right time to send her off and put her back to the environment where she suppose to.  It will definitely be a better place for her than it was in the high school!

ps. Jeannie's lab test came back... she is not anemia, but not sure if she has von willebrand disease just like Jady.  Our family physician is on vacation and won't be back until next Monday.  I am a little concerned for the fact that her white blood count is low.  The Dr. said she might had a viral infection and she needs to have a complete blood test done again in a week.  Hope all is well!
    

Totally Frustrated!

My emotions has been out of whack since I come home.... don't know if it's caused by jet lag or for the fact that Jeannie is leaving soon.  I've been picking on her a lot lately.... I mean a lot... for not cleaning up the crumbs off the microwave, the mess from the counter, the dirty dishes that are not done right etc.  I just hate to repeat myself and don't want her to be dislike by her new roommates.  She is going to start a real life soon and I really am tense about it.  My friend, Farrinx was wise, she once said, "one thing that you can help a child is to learn to stop helping him/her."  I don't think I agree with her at that moment, but now I totally understand what she meant.  May be it's time to let go, to let her explore, experience, or learned from the mistakes!  My dear Lord, please help me to be more patient with her in this upcoming week!

Home Tomorrow?

I spent most of the day packing... still felt like this is a dream.  I never thought of going home under this circumstances.... never thought that I go home for a funeral, for my uncle 7.  It truly hit hard as it's getting close to my departure.  The realization came that this really is the last time I will see him...... I might be better off not going home in the first place... at least he will live in my heart forever.  I need to stop crying...  it's   tough enough to go home without the kids and Johnny.

Head Injury

Our day started pretty smooth this morning until lunch time....

As I was about to leave home, I remembered that the Joseph family is coming over for dinner tonight; so I reached to the freezer and grabbed a few packages of chicken drumsticks to thaw.  The freezer was fully packed with frozen meat as I opened because we just had the food delivered to us a few weeks ago.  After I took the chicken out from the freezer, a frozen water bottle (which Evan put in the freezer for his basketball game) rolled over and dropped on the floor.  So, I attempted to pick it up but then a chuck of frozen packaged meat fell off and landed on the back of my head.

I was in pain and screamed for help.  I cried and the kids ran and got me a few ice pack.  I was a little dizzy, but thank goodness no throwing up!  I couldn't figure out where the pain came from until I switched to a different ice pack.  Evan saw the blood on the ice pack and he told me that I was bleeding.  Now, I was panic!!!  I thought to myself.... no... I don't want stitches.... no.... I don't need any drama before my trip to HK.... no emergency room visit!  I don't know when, but Johnny came downstairs with a towel.  He told me to let go of my hands and let him take a look at the cut.   Thank goodness, the cut was not too big, but I still felt bump on top of it.  I was in pain for a good 15 mins. then, somehow Jeannie suggested that I should take a pain medicine to prevent the inflammation and swelling.  I did as instructed.  Evan also suggested that I should get a blessing.  So, Johnny called on our home teacher, Bro. Reyxxx, who was at that time painting his house, to come over and give me a blessing.

After Bro. Reyxxx left, I rested for a little and waited for the pain to subside.  Since I won't be seeing the kids for the next two weeks, I insisted that we should still go out and eat as a family.  While we were at the restaurant, I couldn't help but to be thankful that it actually happens to me.  My thought was that it might happen to any of my kids next week while I am gone.  But now they learned to be more cautious and careful as they get the food out from the freezer.  I am also grateful for Johnny and Bro. Reyxxx's blessing on me.  I know I will be healed.... well even though I am still a little sore on my head, at least it's definitely better than this morning.  :)

回家

掙扎了數天,我決定回香港送摯愛的七叔最後一程。

最後跟七叔的email, 他知道我2013年將會返港, 還道2013年見... 每次看到這個email, 我就不禁落淚。為什麼我們決定今年不回家?  只少我可以見他多一面吧! 我十萬個不願意來年見到他的時候在廟宇內, 今次回家, 我還可以見到他真人的最後一面, 見一面, 那我就心安, 永不後悔。 機票已定下, 七月二十七日到港, 不知道落機當日可否到儐儀館見見他?

Worst Day of My Life...

I woke up this morning and saw Patrick gor gor's fb message about my uncle's passing.  What?  My favorite uncle?  My uncle-7??   I called dad and he confirmed of the bad news.... No, dad.... this is not true.  No, I refuse to believe it.....NO! NO! NO!.... I don't think I had a minute today that I am not thinking of my uncle.  I acted as if I am alive, but I can't hear, I can think, and I am not there.  My head hurt, my heart is broken, both my eyes are swelling and constantly filled with tears.  I tried to tell myself that it's okay (he is in a better place), and I tried to focus and wrote down all of the memories he shared with me, but it's just so hard to let go! Why him?  Why?  Johnny and the kids tried to comfort me, but I can't stop crying....  my eyes started to hurt and I still want to cook for the family...

I starred at the sky this evening while cooking.... kept thinking about my uncle who's in the sky now .... it got really dark and cloudy around 6:15am right before Jeannie came home.  It was cloudy with lighting for about 10 mins... even Jady asked to close the blinds because she was scared.  We all thought it was going to rain, but there wasn't even a drop of rain.  What's more?  The dark cloud and all the lighting went away, and the sky became bright and clear again.  It was calm at last.  I was even able to see the beautiful, purplish sunset. It happens all within 30 mins during dinner. We all think the weather was weird, but it was the strangest feeling ever... as if uncle 7 was sending me a signal, "ok.... enough mourning...  it's all over now...  no more tears and sorrow.... all is well!"

Uncle 7 is my favorite uncle.... he is like my parents.  My parents work day and night when I was young, and so my brother and I would stay at my grandma and uncle's house everyday after school.  Uncle 7 loves kid and he is in fact a big kid himself.  He likes to joke around and play tricks on me!  He is always fun and playful... and I  I had many, many good memories with him.

I wish I had never came to the US.... I would have spent more time with him and grandma before their passing.  I still regret not being around grandma before she passed away.  I am scared.... terribly scared.... they both are my most loved ones besides my parents... and I couldn't help to think about my parents and the "what ifs"...

I will never forget my uncle 7, and I hope my children to know what a good uncle I have!

Here is the memoir of my uncle: 

Uncle 7 .... my heart is broken, and I still can't believe you have left us.  I just want to write down a little about you as now I am calmed .  Thank you for bringing so much joy in my life.  I had fond memories of my childhood because of you.  I will never forget you!!!  

Your laughter, your playfulness will always be in my heart.  Wish you and our two grandma and grandpa are all well in the Heavenly kingdom.  We will meet again some day!
 
Niece, Ka Man
 
Me: Uncle 7, why do you play tennis so late at night?
Uncle 7: because no one will use the elevator at night, silly girl. (Uncle 7 likes playing tennis against the wall at the end elevator at Block 23)
Me: Uncle 7, can try I? (He would hold my little hand and let me hit the ball a few times.)
 
Uncle 7: wanna go and eat?  (Uncle 7 would take me out to eat really late at night after 9:00pm)
Me: Yeah!
Uncle 7: I want the pig feet flat noodle, how about you?
Me: I want the beef ball flat noodle ... (because I know he likes that) .... Gradually, I fell in love with beef ball flat noodle too.  
 
Uncle 7 play card games with me and my friends all the time. 
Me: Uncle 7, I'm not going to play with you if you continue to hit so hard! 
Uncle 7: ha ha ha.... You will never grow up if I don't hit hard ... ha ha ha!!
 
Me: Uncle 7, what are you doing? 
Uncle 7: practicing Chinese calligraphy!
Me: Why?
Uncle 7: to develop my patience!
Me: Can I try?
Uncle 7: Sure! (He gave me a piece of paper and I drew a piece of bamboo)
Uncle 7: What is this?  So ugly ah ha ha?
Me: Your's is ugly too!!! I stick out my tongue.
Uncle 7: You are better off grinding the ink for me, haha!
 
Uncle 7: I used to change your dirty diaper! 
Me: What? Did you really?
Uncle 7: Yes... ask your parents, but your dirty diaper is very expensive!
Me: Why?
Uncle 7: Because you study overseas ah, silly!
 *dirty diaper - means those who had an education but don't do well implying the concepts learned
 
Uncle 7 loves playing ping pong with us outside the hallway at our apartment. 
Me: Why are you always the "king"?  (whoever wins the game will get to stay and play until he loses, and the winner will be called king)
Uncle 7: Because I play really good ah, silly girl!
Uncle 7: Hey guys .... fold the table .... the gas guy need to get through!
 
Me: Uncle 7, check this out ...
Uncle 7: Bread? Is this bread? Why is it hard like a rock? It will kill a dog if you throw it to him.  Ha ha ha!
But he still ate it after a big laugh!  

Uncle 7: Hey, you forgot something!!!
Me: what?
Uncle 7 would point to his cheek.... and I will climb up on his bunk bed and give him a big kiss before I went back to my parents apartment.  

This is my uncle 7.... my favorite... my most loved uncle in the world!  May the Lord be with you!  Love you forever! 
 

She Is Ready!

I've been quite impressed with Jeannie lately.  A few weeks ago, we found out that she asked a YM from the stake whether he would be interested to go to the school prom with her.  I never thought my daughter would do such a thing and wondered if she might in fact like this kid.  What I found out is that this YM actually goes to a private school and there will never be a prom because of the small school size.  Yet, he wanted an experience of a prom and how it's like.  So, Jeannie asked if he would like to go with her.  That's how it started!

Another occasion.... I got an email from Jeannie's seminary teacher of the scriptures that she hasn't memorized.  I have no clue how she was behind since all the kids had the same amount of time to memorize and recite during the class time.  This is what she said, "You know MiguXX and I are always the last people to finish... I just don't want him to feel bad for being the last one all the time."  My heart was filled with joy as I heard of it.    

I am very proud of Jeannie and thankful for her example and thoughtfulness of others.  Sometimes we hurry in life and forget the people around us.  Other times we stepped on others in order to win the race.  I am glad that she chose to slow down and be with those who needs a helping hand.  Now I am convinced that she is capable of taking care of herself and others while in college.  I know she is ready!

Trip to the Orthopedic

I finally went to the orthopedic to check on the problems with my lower back and elbow.  Since the blood work showed an inflammation (tendonitis) but the x-ray looked fine; so the Dr. gave me a shot at the elbow to alleviate the pain.  But the x-ray on the lower back wasn't so promising.  The spine was a little curvy to the right and asymmetrical towards the bottom; the bone and muscle ratio was out of balance and that came the pain.  There is nothing he could do to help since it was inborn and he has never done this type of surgery.  So, I was referred to see the physical therapist.

I wasn't thrill with the news but at least I know what's going on and learn to adjust my posture and daily activities accordingly.... and I think saving my time and money to the chiropractor is a plus too!      

The Merciful Obtain Mercy - President Uchtdorf

It's been awhile since the last time I talked to this friend.  I had doubt in my mind whether she still want to stay in touch with me.  We both did something in the past that hurt each other's feeling.  Although we both apologize but I still feel a little unease.  Because I felt betrayed so I justified my own action.  My anger, my wound was like a sponge and swelled everyday until the day we watched President Uchtdorf's talk at FHE.  My heart ache... not because of my friend, but for myself.  I suddenly realized how much pride I had and how unforgiving I was.  I should have understood and respected my friend's choice of not returning my email.  I should be patient to let the time heal.  I was not sincere when I asked for forgiveness, and I thought I probably won't be forgiven for the rest of my life.  There was a hole in me that I could not fix.

The issue bothers me so much that I could not sleep.  I stayed up and started reading the general conference talk, the same statement stood out from President Uchtdorf's talk, "how can we deny to others any measure of the grace we desperately desire for ourselves?"  What a powerful message of the atonement!!!  Jesus did the impossible and redeem all mankind.  Things would be made perfect through Him.  It's been a long time since I pour my heart and soul for the cleaning power of the atonement.  For the very first time, I felt truly sorry for my wrong doing.  It wouldn't matter whether she wants to stay in touch because I've no control over it.  As long as I do my part, continue to write to her and pray on her behalf, the Lord will .  My heart was filled with love by the Savior, and I can now continue to move on.  I am grateful for this gospel... I am grateful for the atonement of Christ.  I want my children to know that mom is not perfect, but it can be done through the Lord, our Savior, Jesus Christ!



       

Spring Break

I can't believe the Spring break is over!!!  We spent a lot of time together as a family and it was wonderful!

3/31-4/1  Trip to Connecticut 

Visit the Olde MisX Village (it was interesting and kind of remind me of the Kettle XXX in Lancaster).  We also stopped at the PEx visitor center, which was probably the kids favorite place to be!  :D  Then, Johnny and Evan went to the Priesthood session and was invited to AppleX afterwards by the YM and their leaders.  It's was a very nice ward with lots of awesome youth!  We then went to catch a concert by the "Grasshopper" from HK.  (Jeannie was sick.) 

4/1

Took the kids to the Gillette castle - it was the most magnificent castle I've ever seen.  The castle was built in 1914 in Medieval style, it looked like the one I saw in fairy tale.  I love the view from the castle over the Connecticut river, it was just breathtaking!  

We also went to a place called the inventor's mind where the kids spent some time working on projects, they were not to excited when we asked them to go, but they finally admit that they had fun building their or toy/game: Jeannie made a pinball game, Evan made a remote control car, and Jady made a magnet game!

We then drove home, had dinner and watched the General Conference.  We still have a few to catch up in the upcoming FHE though!  :D

4/2

Mulch, mulch, mulch... we got the mulch delivered.... Johnny took Jady to the dentist for a cleaning, and we did mulching together... dropped off Evan to the Y so that he could hang out with friends.  

4/3 

The kids invited the UrbaniX  kids for bowling.  I did some cleaning in the house.  They come back and Jeannie went to hang out with friends.  

4/4 

Johnny and I took the bus to downtown Philly to open a HK bank A/C.  We hate the drive to downtown because of the traffic.  It was quite a nice experience actually!  We went to dim sum, got some egg tarts, and roast duck and pork for the kids on our way back... almost forgot the mango ice cream at the Terminal market was heavenly awesome!

4/5

Family hike at the Valley Forge trail as requested by Jady!  :D  The kids were complaining as usual, but they had fun throwing stones at the river!  It was a little scary on the way back since we made a short cut and went up to a clift that was a little narrow to travel.  We had a picnic at the Wilson park after the hike and Johnny took the oldest two for a movie afterwards.  Jady and I stayed at the mall and got some winter jackets for the UrbaniX kids.  I've been waiting for some good bargains and got some real good deals that day.  We are planning to give it to them this Thanksgiving!  (Jeannie starts to feel better!)

4/6

Johnny took Evan to play tennis in the morning.  We planned to take the kids to an Italian restaurant but it was close when we got there.  Went to a different restaurant and LowX to check on some flowers.  I finally decided to plant more tulips and hyacinth in the flower bed instead of flowers. :)  Then, Jeannie left to hang out with friends while Johnny and Evan went to badminton in the evening.  (Evan started to feel sick.)

4/7

Not much... went to the GreeX wedding reception... clean, cook, and played majogh with the kids.

Johnny and I really had a great time with the kids!!!!    

Totally Upset!

I finally got the air ticket for Jeannie to Utah.  My heart ache when I ordered the one way ticket for her.  It will be heart breaking watching her pack.  I don't think I can handle that!

Finally went to see my Dr. and got the anti inflammatory medication for my lower back.  I hope it helps!

  

Finally..... BYU!!!!

Yes, Jeannie made it to all three BYUs and is trying to pray for a confirmation of which one she should go to!!!  I was so thrilled as I heard her over the phone of the acceptance by BYU - Provo.  They are all great schools and she will be meeting some awesome adults in the future!  Can't believe she is going to be leaving in a few months!

Three Days After LASIK Surgery

Is this how it suppose to be???

I saw the squirrel climbing on the maple tree 20 ft away from my house in the backyard. 
I can see the clock without my glasses on....

I actually see myself in the mirror after waking up in the morning...

I am grateful for my LASIK surgeon who did a wonderful job on my eyes!!!  Now I can see the world, even a better world with all the beauties. 

The Past Two Weeks...

It's all over... and I am extremely disappointed, and upset about the outcome.

The company and I had exhausted all possibilities with numerous phone calls and emails back and forth to the different local phone companies and the various dept. for an analog line, and the answer was NO.  Apparently, my home line is made with fiber optic, and we have a digital system in our house which works against the company policy.  I've asked for a brand new analog line but was told that the old copper line system has been removed.  My emotions were going up and down every time I called the phone company or when I waited for the replies from the manager and the tech guy.

FarrinX called me one night of the good news of being hired.  I was very happy for her, but really jealous when she told me that she was able to get a brand new analog line at her house with her existing digital system.  What???  This must be a joke!!!  How fair is this to me???  She is referred by me and is now working for the company but I don't???  FarrinX thought I wasn't care about the job until she found out how prepared I was as I emailed her all the forms and court glossaries I downloaded online in preparation for my new job.  She even called the phone company for me and needless to say she got a big NO from them also.   

My dream was totally shattered as I got the email from my the operation assistant on 1/25 when she told me that my phone line does not meet the company requirement -- "I am sorry that it did not work out for you this time around. Please note that the door will remain open should you wish to return to XXX"...

I was really down for awhile but I am glad to have a peaceful closure between the company and I.  I love the company, the nature of the job, the people, the working schedule and most importantly be able to help people everyday with every call...  

The most important lesson that I learn from this experience are:
1) Learn to accept the fact - especially when things cannot be in control by me.
2) Always try my best until my last breath!
3) Learn to be detached from the situation quickly and to move on.

On a different note... I got a call from a broadcasting company TXB - usa to be a freelance promotional team member.... just waiting for them to call me back for the a sales training position.  Really am looking forward to this job as well.  

  

One Good News and One Bad News!

Ok... I am a little exhausted today with tons of information to process... starting at 5:50am

1. Dropped off Jeannie at seminary (I drove her this morning because I was afraid that the road might be icy overnight)
2. Wrote emails to Evan's science teacher and student council adviser for the concerns and issues we have with his grade.
3. More emails and phone calls to visiting teachees and my companion.
4. Johnny came upstairs and announced that Jeannie made it to BYU-Hawaii!!!!  YEAH!!!
5. Left a voice message on Jeannie's cell phone -- I almost scream my head out!
6. Fix lunch, took a shower, and eat.
7. Dropped off Jady at S. Malstroxxx house.
8. Took me more than two hours to get the mammogram and ultrasound done -- Thank goodness everything looks normal. 
9. Came home around 5:30p... ordered pizza.
10. Crazy mom jumping up and down Jeannie's bed when Jeannie woke up from a nap.  
11. The home teachers showed up at the door.  Again, Mr. Kwan had forgotten to tell me about their coming. 
12. Checked on Evan's English homework. 
13. Picked up another conference call for the last training session with the operation manager.
14. Found out that I might not be able to work for the company at all because my phone line is digital!  The operation manager quickly took my name off from the rest of the week until the issue is resolved.  
15. Call three local phone companies and no one answer the phone this late at night.
16. Am totally frustrated since I called Comxxx awhile back ago and the sale rep. already told me that they don't support analog phone line anymore.  I only have two other options for tomorrow, either the AT&X and VerizXX.... This is so not fair!!!  I can't believe I might lose this job because of stupid phone line.
17. I hate to admit that there seemed to be some curse on me about working... I am always stuck with some uncontrollable issue every time I try to work such as a move and a pregnancy.  I am holding my hope high for tomorrow!
18. I can tell Mr. Kwan is secretly delighted about my disappointment.  Yet, he was trying to be a gentleman and checked on Comxxx online and to confirm me that the company only support digital in our area!    BOOOOOOOO... 

Jeannie's Talk on Prayer

Well... Jeannie was asked to give a talk at the sacrament today and she did a wonderful job.  This kid is such a kid inside that I just can't help to laugh when she joked about praying to the Lord in her Statistics class when she was bored; and though unwillingly, but obediently gave her favorite X'mas gummy bear to some girl who was crying at the school when she was prompted to do so, etc!  How happy I am to know that my child do obey the counsel from the Lord and has faith and trust in Him.  I hope she will always remember to pray no matter how big or small the circumstances are... the Lord will answer her prayer especially when she is off to college.  

Training Week

I am so glad to be done with all the training.... It not fun when given with three days to finish 16 hours of web training material and three mandatory tests.  The ironic thing is that I learn much more from the 6 hours led training on the following day (after passing all the web training and requirement) than all that's combined from the three days cramping session. :D

There is still one more session with the operation manager and I will be on my own... really am excited about this job, and hopefully be able to help others whenever I can.

Happy Birthday, Jeannie!!!

Honey, I can't believe you are 18 today!!!  I still remember you were this little baby that I snuggle in my arm and took you back home from the hospital, and now you've grown. I know you are excited about being an adult and I hope you would enjoy being one and the responsibility that comes with it.  You are entering a different stage of life and it will be fun and full of surprises and excitement down the road if you stay close to your Heavenly Father.  Remember to pray always, be faithful, and keep his commandment for that's the way to happiness.

Tens things I like about Jeannie:

1. Has always been my easiest child... never had to worry about her homework and such.
2. Has a child in her no matter how old she is.  :D
3. Very friendly and helpful at work and at school. 
4. Loves/spoil her little sister.
5. Is sympathetic and stand out for her younger brother when he is grounded.  
6. Funny, and have a good sense of humor. 
7. Love by the YW. 
8. Diligent about her scripture study, and journal recording.
9. Cute and have a great smile.
10. Love her because she is who she is... and no one can replace it!  

Dec 21 - Dec 30

Dec 21 (Wed)

• Celebrating Jady's 5 year old birthday.  We got her a baby doll, and an ice cream cake as she wished!  I've got to upload the pictures to my laptop though.  Needless to say, she has been a sweet blessing to our lives and we love her dearly!

Dec 22 (Thur)

• All done with the job paper work and notarization.  It was an interesting experience since everything is done online and not like the traditional recruitment/interviewing process.   

Dec 23 (Fri)

• Went to visit a few church families.  It takes time and faith to serve others especially when it's not convenient or when you are running tired.

Dec 24 (Sat)

• Johnny and I went to CT for Hacken Lee's concert.  We drove to NY and catch the coach bus to CT.    It was fun, but very tiring since the concert starts at 2am and we didn't get home until 10:00am....  we took a shower right after we got home and then headed to church for the X'mas service.  

Dec 25 (Sun)

• We came back from church... had a good lunch (Christmas lunch with an Asian flare!), opened the gifts with the kids and took a nap.  
• Then, we went to Johnny's badminton friend for dinner.  This is the first time we ever met Lik and Christine.  They are very nice couple and so as the other couple, Angela and Mario. 

Dec 26 (Mon)

• Man... it was a long day.... we drove all the way to Gordansville, VA for a gathering with the Cheungs, Martins, and the Chois.  The drive itself was about 5 hrs, and then we hit traffic and got stuck for an additional two hours!  We did not get there until 8pm.  Well, at least we got hotpot for dinner that evening. 

Dec 27 (Tue)

• Didn't do much that day because it was raining outside... The adult and kids end up playing wii dance!  It was a good game and fun for everyone.     

Dec 28 (Wed)

• Took the kids out for a basketball game, frisbee, swimming and sauna.  The boys went for ping pong tournament and Evan and Christian got 2nd and 1st place in the younger group while Aaron got 2nd place among the adult contestant.  It was good!  The wives also had a facial and massage.  

Dec 29 (Thur) 

• Check out from the cabin, and thank goodness we didn't get much traffic driving home. 

Dec 30 (Fri)

• Johnny and I took Jady to the hematologist for a DDAVP challenge.  She is now confirmed Type 1 von willebrand patient and DDAVP respondent.  Nothing major except the time she needs a surgery or  tooth extraction.