My Jersey Life

2012-01-23T16:39:00.022-05:00

Chinese New Year 2012 @ Chinatown
by Adrian

Despite living so near to New York City, we have never been to Chinatown on the first day of Chinese New Year. So Serene and I decided to take Monday off and go to New York Chinatown to check out the Chinese New Year festivity for a change. While exploring the events, we found out there was a Year of Dragon: Firecracker Ceremony at R oosevelt Park.

The Chinese New Year would not be complete if there are no lion dance performances. As expected we saw a few different troupes performing their stunts.

Drummer for the 1st troupe

1st troupe

2nd troupe with protected plastic bag to shield the lion's head from the rain (Kind of weird as I always thought they are waterproof)

3rd troupe with the black colored lion

Opening ceremony for the Firecracker Ceremony

Letting off firecracker in progress

Rain does not deter Chinese ushers from celebrating the Year of Dragon

CNN's Senior U.N. correspondent Richard Roth reporting from the scene

Aftermath of the firecracker ceremony

Tsai Chen- God of good fortune with a member of the press

Chinese dolls figures walking about (No clue what they represent. Anyone please explain?)

Chinese folk dance in action

That's basically how New York's Chinatown celebrates first day of the Chinese New Year. It is different from Malaysia but close enough to feel like home.

2012-01-21T00:31:00.007-05:00

Happy Chinese New Year

We would like to wish our friends and relatives Happy Chinese New Year.

Picture courtesy of Microsoft

2012-01-10T21:43:00.004-05:00

Brilliant...!
by Adrian

I came across this group from one of our friends in facebook. Thanks Trish...!

It is too good not to be shared.

The group is called Walk of the Earth from Burlington, Ontario, Canada. They are singing a cover song by Goyte another great indie singer from Australia.

Enjoy...!

2011-12-31T22:24:00.002-05:00

Photo source: Microsoft

Wishing all my friends, family and fellow bloggers and readers a very "Happy and Blessed New Year 2012. May the new year bring you peace, joy, good health & prosperity!"

2011-12-24T00:07:00.005-05:00

Season's Greetings from the Yong family

Picture courtesy of Microsoft

2011-12-17T19:17:00.024-05:00

Sesame Place Theme Park
by Adrian

Note: We are a bit behind in blogging so bear with us. The trip was taken on October 9, 2011.

It was at the end of the season and we decided to bring Brandon to S esame Place Theme Park owned by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. Yes, that's right the same owner that manage Shamu and friends. We have never been to SeaWorld so we did not know what to expect.

As it was the end of the season only a few attractions remained open. It was a mistake as there were too many people crammed into these few attractions causing chaos trying to line up for the shows. The staffs were very disorganized and did not direct the traffic well. We were very disappointed considering it is managed by SeaWorld. Parents were cutting lines along with the young ones. We were wondering what the parents are trying to proof to their kids!!! Cutting lines are fine...??? Oh well...!

Entrance

Sesame Street's characters in pumpkin form with Brandon and I

Countdown to Halloween at Monster Rock Theater

Elmo's World Live at Sesame Studio

The was a boo boo during the Elmo's World Live show. The timing was off and Mr. Noodle's nephew came out with the wrong voice over. For those who are not familiar. Mr. Noodle is a character introduced in 1998. Ever since, it always appear in Elmo's World segment.

Big Bird at the Neighborhood Street Party Parade

Telly monster, Bert and Ernie at the Neighborhood Street Party Parade

Cookie monster at Neighborhood Street Party Parade

Sesame Street trademark signage

Overall, it was a so so park. It was pricey, old, filthy (trash around eateries), confusing map, and poor service all over the park. We still prefer Disney Parks any time.

2011-11-24T20:12:00.004-05:00

Thanksgiving 2011
by Adrian

This is the time to reflect what we have and not to take things for granted. With that said, we are very thankful of what we have.

2011-11-19T21:18:00.020-05:00

The Meadowlands Pet Expo 2011
by Adrian

As I was refilling my fish tank filters at a pet store, I saw a flyer advertising for a pet expo few weeks ago. Thinking I would see lots of animals and fish, we decided to explore the expo today. The expo started yesterday (Nov 18, 11). Tell me whether it is worth it.

Alpaca

Some exotic animal I can't remember the name

Stare down German Shepherd

A Sumatran tiger eating half chicken

Dancing dogs no kidding...!

The stars of dancing with the dogs, Eddie and Henry

My favorite pet..! Gold fish..!

Different dishes for pet

Beethoven I mean a St. Bernard

Overall, I find the expo so so. They only have one tank of goldfish. Geez....! There were more owners with their pets than the animals itself. Oh well...! I suppose no more future visit from us.

2011-11-01T20:32:00.003-05:00

Universal's Islands of Adventures
by Adrian

Note: This was the continuation from our Orlando trip.

It was the last day of our trip and we decided to pay Harry Potter a visit. We have been hearing people raving about it. It is the newest attraction to the park. The park was under construction when I was here eleven years ago. At that time, it was only Universal Studios which is next to Islands of Adventures.

Entrance to the park

Port of Entry

Seuss Landing gift shop

The Lost Continent

Harry Potter and Forbidden Journey

Hogwarts castle gates

Street of Hogsmeade (Look who passed out)

Hogswart Express

Owlpost is a system of sending messages or items using owls as the carriers. Besides the Owl Post Office, individuals and organizations with their own owls use them as their mail bearers. (Source: http://harrypotter.wikia.com/wiki/Owl_post)

Butterbeer is a popular wizarding beverage described as tasting "a little bit like less-sickly butterscoth. (Source: http://harrypotter.wikia.com/wiki/Butterbeer). Side note: It tasted like root-beer with a squirt of melted butter.

Three Broomsticks restaurant where Harry and his friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger enjoyed drinking butterbeer.

Glimpse of the food served at Three Broomstick

Chargrilled ribs, corn and potatoes

Cornish pastries and garden salad

Collection of wands which sells at $30 each

Marvel Super Hero Island

Cyclops projecting an optic blast pose

Princess Amoura and Sinbad

Overall, we find the park very exciting and fun. Unfortunately, we did not go to any rides since Brandon is too young for it. Perhaps on the next trip. Anyway, here are some tips from us. Just be ready to pay more for food and merchandise. Also beware of rude people as well. They will cut your line.

2011-10-30T19:53:00.015-05:00

Unexpected Early Snow -White Halloween 2011 (Oct 29-30'11)
by Adrian

Early during the week, it was forecast-ed to snow on Saturday. Since it was forecast-ed to be accumulating one inch, no one took the warning seriously. I suppose it is very rare to have snow during October.

Wham.....! Did it hit us hard....! It was worse than hurricane Irene. Nobody factored in the fragile tree branches that would break easily. Well, as I have said it is too early for snow and the leaves have not completely fall off the trees yet. The treacherous snow landed on the leaves increased the load for the branches mixed with strong wind caused it to break.

Tree branches are over our area and we lost power since around 2pm Saturday (Oct 30'11). We saw branches on the cars and middle of the streets. We spent the night with camping lamps lighting our rooms with no heat. Imagine it was about 32F (0 Celsius) outside. Anyway, see for yourself the damages from the October snow storm.

Look at the sagging tree branches next to our shed

Broken branches on our front yard (Saturday)

Broken branches on our front yard (the next day)

More broken branches on the backyard

Road down our street closed due to broken branches

After about 24 hrs of no power, we finally had it back around 4pm the next day. We are very grateful there were no substantial damages to our property except a few broken branches that need to be cleared. ~~Tennis elbow, back pain from shoveling the snow and a cut from cutting the tree branches~~ .

Looks who is so happy. It also means Elmo's World is back.

Thanks for all your prayers and best wishes.

2011-10-16T20:13:00.000-05:00

Disney Magic Kingdom Park
by Adrian

This is our second day at Orlando and also our second visit to another Disney Park. I have been to Disney Land (Anaheim, CA) twice and first time at Magic Kingdom (Orlando, FL). The Magic Kingdom's set up is very similar to Disney Land. Regardless of how many times I have visited the Disney resort, I still get excited. It reminded me of my childhood fantasy. Walt Disney has done an excellent job at creating a dream for a lot of people on this planet. See for yourself..!

Cinderella Castle iconic fairy-tale fortress that serves as the gateway to Fantasyland

Mickey Mouse's pumpkin deco on the Main Street U.S.A lamp depicting Fall is coming

A section of Main Street U.S.A

The Haunted Mansion

Pinocchio

Lilo and Stitch

Mickey and Minnie Mouse

Aladdin

Brandon enjoying the park

Family picture

Overall, it was a great visit even though we did not go for all the rides. We will definitely be back in a few years time. I strongly recommend you to check out the place.

2011-09-21T20:01:00.034-05:00

Disney's Epcot Part 2
by Adrian

Italy Pavilion

Via Napoli restaurant

Il Bel Cristallo

American Adventure Pavilion

We did not spend much time in this pavilion as we have been to the actual places in Boston and Philadelphia.

Building replica of the Independence Hall in Philadelphia

Spirit of America Fife & Drum Corps

Flag bearer of Spirit of America Fife & Drum Corps

Japan

Teppan Indo restaurant

Shinto Shrine

Morocco

Looking through the Bab

Facade of a Moroccan building

France

Les Chefs France restaurant

Plume et Palatte (Perfume shop)

An old world cottage

Sportman's Shoppe

Canada

Totem pole by the Northwest Mercantile store

Family picture with Goofy

This basically concludes our trip to Epcot. Hope the pictures would inspire you to visit this wonderful park. My next blog will be Disney Magic Kingdom. Till then.

2011-09-19T20:13:00.029-05:00

Disney's Epcot Part 1
by Adrian

This is my second visit to Epcot. It is one of the most exciting and informational Disney Parks that I have been. It is truly a world showcase like the website said. See for yourself.

Epcot's theme park spherical icon- Spac eship Earth at the entrance

Mexican Pavilion

Aztec Temple of Quetzalcoatl at Teotihuacan, Mexico (Replica)

Señor Donald and I

Norway Pavilion

Viking house

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall

Serene and Norwegian maids (real interns from Norway)

China Pavilion

Replica of a temple/gift store

Temple of Heaven

Interior ceiling of the Temple of Heaven

Replica of the Terra-cota warriors

Germany Pavilion

Cobblestone plaza designed after a 16th-century German town

Statue of St. George slaying a dragon

View from the restaurant's window

Biergarten restaurant

What do you think? More to come and stay tune for part 2.

2011-08-31T21:05:00.010-05:00

My office on Monday (Aug 29'11)
by Adrian

I called in my office's emergency hotline and got a message there would be a delayed opening. Needless did I know no way in hell the office could be opened. See for yourself....! Do you think it is possible? At the end, they decided to close the office.

Anyway, things are getting back to normal now. Unfortunately, I do know some colleagues in the office still clearing their basement or trees that fell on their house as we speak. We really considered ourselves very lucky to sustained only puddle of water in the basement. Thank you for your prayers and well wishes.

2011-08-28T11:34:00.031-05:00

Sunday morning (Hurricane Irene Day)
by Adrian

As expected our basement has water in a few spots. The unexpected one was our storage room. I have to remove all the stuffs in the room as the carpet was soaking wet. Also, the window well facing the front yard was almost flooded with rain water. I had to scoop out the water using a bucket. See for yourself, the damages caused by hurricane Irene.

Water seeping through the ground (I assuming due to the water table rising)

Discovered carpet soaked with water after removing the stored items

After relocating the items from the storage room, the basement looks like a war-zone

Our backyard's view from the side window

Front yard

Debris on the main street

Good thing it is over as hurricane Irene changed her coast slightly. Or else we probably be in the direct hit. That being said, we still have to be careful as the ground is soggy and the trees are prone to fall even with a faint wind blowing. At least, the worst is over for now. Please continue to pray for us....!

Side note: Juan, our contractor has just arrived to inspect the damages in our basement. He gave us a few proposals. Unfortunately, either way we still have to drain cash from our emergency fund. Sob sob...! For those of you who feel very generous, please feel free to donate to our "Hurricane Irene" rebuilding fund. I do have a paypal account so if you would like to donate. ~~My pay-pal email is aycy@lycos.com.~~ He he...!

2011-08-27T20:47:00.011-05:00

Eve-Hurricane Irene August 27, 2011
by Adrian

It has been raining for almost two hours and it does not look good as certain areas might be flooded. Surprisingly, Shoprite (regular grocery store) and New Kim Fung (Chinese store) were not that packed. Unfortunately, the UHT milk Parmalat has been sold out. We do have milk but it is the refrigerated type. Hopefully, we won't have a power outage. The TV and radio stations have been doing a very good job in telling people to stock up essential stuffs just in case the worse happens. For example, water, batteries, flash lights, weather radio, and basic food. As you can see we are doing our share.

Flash lights and battery operated radio

Water, pastry, baby formula, and Indomie, ~~curry paste and laksa paste~~

Our backyard taken at 8.20pm

Channel 7 ABC live weather report at 8.41pm

The latest forecast in our area for tomorrow is "Hurricane Irene; torrential rain and strong winds; heavy tropical rainfall will lead to flooding". You could check the status of our local weather by clicking to "AccuWeather" or go www.accuweather.com and type 07666 click go.

Stay tune fore more updates...!

2011-08-25T20:56:00.015-05:00

~~Earthquake~~ Tremors in NJ. What's next? Hurricane?
by Adrian

We have earthquakes in California, hurricanes in Florida and tornadoes in the Midwest. It didn't occurred to us we would experience similar natural disasters. But we did. At least one for now.

It was a regular day on August 23, 2011 around 1.50pm. I was in my cubicle drafting an email to one of my customers. Suddenly, my co-workers in the office started asking, "do you feel that?". I did not pay attention to them at first as I was concentrating on my email. And then I started to hear steel beams clinking and I felt the floor was swaying back and forth. I told myself this is definitely not a good sign. Without any hesitation, we quickly proceeded to our safety zone in the parking lot. People were panicking not knowing what had happened. And then someone said there was an Earthquake in Virginia and somehow it shook New Jersey as well.

The Record-Front Page

Metro-Front Page

Northeasters like us are not used to earthquakes, hurricane and tornadoes. We do have storms but nothing this big. Good thing everything is back to normal within half hour or so. Just so we thought. Guess what...! That evening we have a weather forecast saying that a category 3 hurricane will be sweeping through the area in a few days time. It is forecast-ed to arrive on Sunday in our area.

Live tracker from MSNBC

To prepare for the worst scenario, I started stocking up the essential stuffs. As I was looking for size D batteries at the grocery store, I already noticed people have started to flock to the premise as well. Unfortunately, the entire shelf of size D batteries for flash lights has been emptied. I suppose I am not the only one thinking of batteries. Well at least, we already have the essential items we needed to survive in case of emergency.

Please pray for us and wish us luck. Stay tune for more update.

2011-08-21T19:22:00.006-05:00

Ka Chang Ma

Today is Sunday and as usual, it's a cooking day for me. I try to whip up a dish that would last a few days so that Adrian doesn't have to do heavy cooking on week days. Since I come home late most days due to the long commute from NYC, Adrian would have to put on his "Top Chef" hat in the evenings. I am lucky to have a very capable chef at home :)

Ka Chang Ma is one of those dishes that keeps well. It is a traditional Chinese chicken herb dish served to women post pregnancy and very common in my hometown. The herb is Chinese motherwort or its scientific name - leonurus sibiricus, and honestly, it's not easy to eat. As a young girl, I never liked it. I would scrape the herbs of the chicken before eating ka chang ma. Why would anyone eat something that smell vile and reek with alcohol?! The latter might be an incentive to revisit the dish every now and then... lols! Well, I've come a long way and have acquired the taste of ka chang ma. Since its days as a post-natal dish, folks have started eating ka chang ma as a regular food and has become a local delicacy in my home town.

The MAIN ingredient although also know as "Little M...." is NOT to be confused with another herb which recently became legal for medicinal purposes in NJ!

Prep chicken & fresh ginger (pounded & squeezed - save the juice for later).

Heat the herb until it's fragrant but not too brown, otherwise your dish will taste bitter.

Stir-fry ginger pulp until fragrant - set aside.

Stir-fry chicken pieces & add ginger juice.

Add the herb and ginger pulp.

My Holy Trinity of cooking wine - 2 types of rice wine & Sherry for sweetness. Amen!

Transfer to a crock-pot and cook on low for another hour until chicken becomes tender and all the herb & wine is fully infused in the meat.

VOILA!

2011-07-25T20:38:00.005-05:00

Our New Flower Bed!

A few weeks ago, we embarked on a garden project to clean up the old flower bed in our back yard. Previously, it was overgrown with weeds, a scrawny rose bush that screamed "let me die already!" and other unknown shrubs and plants.

After a lot of hard work on Adrian's part and buckets of sweat to match a Japanese game show...ta-da!

New concrete borders from Home Depot & solar lights from Walmart

This Moss Rose makes a great plant border. They are extremely hardy in the summer.
It survived the recent heatwave!

Tequila Mix Moss Rose - we purchased 2 trays at 40% off from Metropolitan Plant Exchange at Fort Lee, NJ. The sale is still on if anyone is interested in getting them.

2011-07-05T19:56:00.010-05:00

Two years in Teaneck

Our second anniversary in Teaneck is less than 2 months away. We have put in a lot of work into improving the house both inside (new electrical panel, heater & boiler, washing machine & dryer and more recently, automatic garage door) and out or in other words, aesthetically.

Adrian, in particular, worked really hard to get our garden and yard in shape for summer. Here's a few shots of before and after.

BEFORE

September 2009
Over-grown shrubs, un-kept hydrangeas, weeds and creepers - all great for hiding creepy crawlies and intruders waiting to pounce on you as you enter your home

AFTER

July 2011
New grass thanks to Adrian's constant de-weeding, sowing of new grass seeds
and endless top -soiling

BEFORE

September 2009
Backyard and deck

AFTER

July 2011
Backyard and deck

BEFORE

September 2009
Wishing well with over-grown ivy

AFTER

July 2011
Wishing well - all cleaned up. In the process, we also got rid of the mole family which burrowed holes in our garden. Less place for them to hide these days!

Coming up...another garden project done!

2011-07-04T21:32:00.037-05:00

Fourth of July 2011
by Adrian

The Township of Teaneck held its July 4th parade at 9.30am this morning. The three of us (Serene, Brandon and I ) walked less than ten minutes from our house to Queen Anne Road. As expected, there were lots of people kids and adults waiting for the parade to arrive. See for yourself from the pictures below.

Teaneck police escorts

Teaneck Mayor Mohammed Hameeduddin (First Muslim elected Mayor in US history)

Girl Scouts

Filipino American Society of Teaneck

War protesters

Colorful war protester reminded me of the 60/70's

Loyalist re-enactors

Happy Independence Day everyone..! Till next year..!

2011-06-19T21:42:00.024-05:00

Lauren and Steve Calijone Part 2
by Adrian

Thanks to a glitch in Blogspot, I have to divide the wedding blog into two parts. Anyway, here are the rest of the wedding pics.

The table set up

Wedding cake

Lauren feeding Steve the wedding cake

Citrus Mango Sorbet

Baby spinach, wedged plum tomatoes, sliced white button mushrooms, bacon bits, crumbled eggs hard boiled eggs with warm bacon dressing aka SALAD

For entrees we have.....

10oz Grilled fillet mignon served with turned mushroom cap and bernaise sauce served table side (Adrian)

Pan seared Chilean sea bass served on a bed of baby organic spinach and fingerling potatoes in a thyme sauce (Serene)

Unfortunately, we have to skip the dessert to get back to Brandon by 10pm. Hence, we have no dessert picture. Thanks to Ms. Natasha for babysitting Brandon for us.

Lauren and Steve, thank you for the excellent wedding dinner. Again, congratulations to both of you. May both of you have a successful marriage with love and remain the same.

2011-06-19T19:43:00.038-05:00

Lauren and Steve Calijone Part 1
by Adrian

We were invited to Lauren and Steve's wedding on June 3'2011. I have known Lauren from my past work at TNS. For those who do not know, Lauren is Brandon's godmother as well. We started the wedding celebration at St. Joseph's Church at Oradell.

Lauren led by her father

Newly weds (Mr. & Mrs. Calijone)

Typical Limo Shot

Then we proceeded to The Westmount Country Club for the cocktail hour and reception. It so happened to be the same place, I had our company holiday dinner as well my co-worker's wedding venue. The food and ambiance were great...! Serene and I love the place. See for yourself.

The newlyweds and entourage

The first dance

To be continued...!

2011-06-18T21:03:00.007-05:00

Happy Father's Day
by Adrian

Guess what I received for Father's Day.

It was rather an unexpected gift for my second father's day. Thank you. In that note, I would also like to wish all the fathers, Happy Father's Day.

2011-05-29T15:23:00.015-05:00

Santubong, Sarawak, Malaysia
by Adrian

Having to live in Sarawak, we are located very close to the coastal area or "the shore" as Jerseyans would called it. Within the vicinity of Santubong, there is a kampung (village) called Buntal, the famous resort called Damai Beach Resort, and S arawak Cultural Village.

If you like hiking, I strongly recommend you to explore the area. Take note it is a tropical jungle, so make sure you use insect repellent and drink lots of water. Anyway, here are few pictures I manage to snap during the trip back to Kuching. Enjoy viewing....!

Buntal fishing village

Damai Beach Resort

Guests @ the resort

Part of Mt. Santubong's trail to the summit

My verdict: It is a great getaway from the hectic work place. So start making your reservation and check out Santubong.

2011-05-29T14:25:00.017-05:00

Ah Kong's funeral
by Adrian

We made an impromptu trip back to Kuching for Ah Kong's (grandpa in Hokkien) funeral. He has been very close to Serene. I remembered her telling me he dropped and picked her up from school from kindy until secondary school (high school). She said Ah Kong is a very nice and respectable person. He can be comical and funny at times. There are times we laugh at his choice of words and stunts. Having met him myself, I completely agree with her. He has lived a good life surviving World War II and visited many interesting places around the world.

Ah Kong's portrait @ the living room

Flower wreaths from relatives and friends

Grandpa's old pictures

A truckload of wreaths heading to the cemetery

Hearse ~~van~~ carrying grandpa's coffin

Ah Kong @ church during his funeral service

Ah Kong at his final resting place

May you rest in peace Ah Kong . (1^stDecember 1913 - 7^th May 2011)

2011-05-02T20:40:00.009-05:00

Flower bed and yard activities
by Adrian

The duty of a house owner is to maintain and beautifying the home you reside so that you feel cozy and nice when you come home from a long work day. Here is what we have done recently.

Window Well (before). Notice the ugly concrete edging.

Window Well (after new concrete edging)

Window Well new edging (backyard)

New concrete edging (front yard)

Tulips

Lillies

It is hard work but it is worth every effort. Hopefully, a few years from now it will look like the New York Botanical garden. He he..!

2011-04-18T20:53:00.003-05:00

More Adventures at King Fung...

Chicken Roil may make your stomach upset? I hope not!

King Fung fashion week presents..."Fash Balls!" Very chic :)

2011-03-28T19:50:00.006-05:00

Adventures at King Fung Supermarket

King Fung Supermarket is the closest Asian grocery store to our house and we would religiously shop there every weekend. In fact, since being acquired by a bigger chain, King Fung has made tremendous improvements in terms of the store layout, stock/supplies, overall cleanliness and presentation.

One of our favorite spot in the store is the pastry section. We were extremely delighted when they decided to invest in a proper shelving system. Last Saturday, we did exactly the same and...what's up with this?!

Bry Pork Bun @ Pork Floss Bun

Coconhe Bun @ Coconut Bun

Roant.pork.Bun @ Roast Pork Bun

Take break cake @ Tea break cake?

If only it hadn't sound like it could give me Mad Cow, I might try it one day...ROTFL!

And what does Brandon think about the above???

I guess we can laugh as much as we want, but King Fung is still the best place to shop for all things Asian. Now, a little promo for King Fung...it's located at 625 Kinderkamack Road, River Edge, NJ. Tel.: 201-262-8558. Co-owner, Ah Wei is a very nice and pleasant guy. See you next week!

2011-03-18T22:34:00.013-05:00

Spring is in the air
by Adrian

After a long winded winter, the sign of spring is finally coming. Before the winter, I planted bulbs and tulips at the side of our fence. The result is very encouraging consider I saw signs of shoots coming from its bulbs.

Shoot coming out the bulb planted last Fall

Besides seeing the sign of spring is approaching, we also saw Brandon making lots of progress. He is walking and very engaging. His spontaneous giggles and funny acts have been our end of day "de-stress" elixir.

Brandon posing his "Viva Las Vegas" act

Brandon being "cute" after coming home from daycare

Pardon us for not updating for more frequently. It is quite taxing juggling between work, doing house work, ~~blogging~~ and taking care of a toddler. Anyway, stay tune for more updates as there are lots new activities lined up for the rest of the year.

2011-02-21T21:23:00.006-05:00

Snowing Again (Happy President's Day)
by Adrian

We are off today for President's Day (USA). Just when we thought Spring is here, we were hit with another snow last night (flurries). I can't wait for Brandon to grow up and help me shoveling. My back is killing me. Snow... snow go away and may spring come soon.

View from our front window

2011-02-21T20:31:00.013-05:00

Old Time Coffee House (December 2010)
by Adrian

There is an influx of fusion food with the mix of old and new kopitiam (coffee shops) in Kuching. This is one of the better establishments that I managed to try. Judge for yourself...!

House special toast

Peanut butter special bread top with condensed milk

Spaghetti

BBQ Chicken

Special Three Layer Iced Tea

Lam Mee

Fried Bee Hoon (Rice Vermicelli)

Overall the food and service are good. Here is the address if you guys plan to try it out.
Ground Floor, Lot 127, Section 54, KTLD Jln Petanak, 93100 Kuching.

2011-02-08T21:50:00.009-05:00

Kuching Trip (December 2010)
by Adrian

This is a series of hard core food pictures from our trip to Kuching last December. The first were taken from a restaurant called My Restaurant located at Sama Jaya, Kuching. It is basically for meat lovers. The portion is quite huge but quite pricey for Kuching standard. Don't worry as the quality of food compensates for the price.

Mixed Grill

BBQ Combo

Ginger Bread scented apple & prune cake

Banana Passion

Instead of Oreo cookie, we were served "Stereo" cookie in the Ginger Bread scented apple & prune cake to top it off. Lol.....! Only in Kuching. Nevertheless, the verdict is excellent for overall quality of the food.

2011-02-01T22:14:00.009-05:00

Storm hits Northeast
by Adrian

It was quite a challenge commuting to Brandon's daycare this morning. Fortunately, I have been exposed to similar weather conditions while living in Illinois. The valuable experience really comes handy at this time of the year. See for yourself what I have gone through this morning.

Snow covered road

Public bus in service in spite of icy road conditions

For your information, this is just the beginning. The weather forecast is reported to be "ice to rain" tomorrow. Wish us luck and hope the wintry weather will be gone soon.

2011-01-25T14:03:00.018-05:00

San Diego (Conclusion)
by Adrian

Here is the last part of my travel to San Diego. This is the place where everything started in San Diego. It is called Old Town Histo rical San Diego State Histo rical P ark. Below are pictures of what's left. Some of the buildings have been recreated as the original ones did not make it to this day.

Robinson Rose aka Visitor's Information Center

Cigar store

Tobacco merchandise

La Casa De Estudillo

Dining room

Chapel

Cosmopolitan hotel

Cosmopolitan hotel bar

McCoy House
(feels very eerie as there are lots of exhibits with dummy human props looking at you.)Old Jail

Junipero Serra Museum

Fiesta De Reyes (restaurant area)

Sizzling fajita at Fiesta De Reyes.

I hope you have enjoyed the pictures from my San Diego trip. Till next time!

2011-01-17T20:39:00.009-05:00

What's for dinner?
by Adrian

It feels like a long day today especially having to babysit (for Serene) Brandon since his daycare is closed commemorating Martin Luther King Junior's Day. Having spending a few days myself with Brandon, I have come to respect the day care workers as it is not easy dealing with a toddler all day. Anyway, what's wrong with rewarding ourselves with a nice and simple dinner at the end of the day. Bon Appetit..!

Homemade Chili

Garlic Bread

2011-01-12T19:26:00.018-05:00

Work from home
by Adrian

Brandon's daycare is closed due to the snow storm so we are working from home. That does not mean no extra work...! Please see pictures to understand what I am saying.

Started to shovel

Imagine how thick the snow is

Door mat (before shoveling)

Door mat (after shoveling)

Car (before scrapping the snow)

Car (after scrapping the snow)

Foot path (before shoveling)

Foot path (after shoveling)

Brandon: What are you looking at? Go back to work mommy and daddy.

2011-01-11T22:46:00.004-05:00

Snowing...!

We are back in the US. Yeah.....! Somehow we were lucky to miss the first major snow storm that happened around Christmas time. Anyway, it is snowing right now and many offices and schools will be closed tomorrow to avoid the mayhem from happening again.

The night before

Next morning

2010-12-26T22:52:00.005-05:00

Brandon's 1st Birthday (Christmas Day)

Here is a little update. We reached Kuching, Malaysia safely with no problem. Brandon is adapting to local time slowly. The first few days were tough as he kept waking up in the wee hours. Anyway, he arrived just in time for his birthday.

Pre-cutting cake shot

Cutting of cake

Happy Birthday Brandon from mommy, daddy, grandpas, grandmas, uncles and aunties.

2010-12-20T13:18:00.014-05:00

Leaving for Malaysia

We will be away for the rest of December and will be back next year. Please come back for more stories about our trip. In the mean time, we would like to wish everyone;

Picture courtesy of crazy-frankenstain.com

2010-12-14T14:00:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving (Nov 25'10)
by Adrian Yong

I meant to update this earlier but with Brandon nothing can't be planned. There is always last minute changes and etc. Anyway, Serene roasted a turkey for the first time using an Asian fusion recipe. Please see for yourself the dressing prep, turkey and the meal.

Shitake Mushroom and cilantro dressing prep

Complete dressing (mixed of Japanese rice, cut shitake mushroom and cilantro)

Roasted turkey fresh from oven

Cut turkey

Voila' the complete Thanksgiving meal with sweet potato

Verdict: The turkey was a bit tough and the meal was so so. I supposed the turkey we got was not the best one. Well, there is always next year.

2010-12-14T13:50:00.006-05:00

It snowed....!

Snow came a bit early this year. At least, it was just light snow and didn't stick too long. The weather is cold and chilly. Currently, it is 23F (5C).

Light snow on our lawn and roof

Snow on our flower bed

The snow and cold remind me of the time for hot chocolate and ginger bread cookies.....! How about you?

2010-11-29T21:35:00.015-05:00

San Diego Part 2
by Adrian Yong

This is my continued exploration on Coronado Island. Per my concierge's suggestion I decided to check out Hotel Del Coronado known as "The Del" by the locals. She told me that the hotel is famous and lots of movie stars/dignitaries have stayed in the hotel.

From my research, notable guests have included Thomas Edison, L. Frank Baum, Charlie Chaplin, Vincent Price, Babe Ruth, and Reggie White. The following presidents have stayed at the hotel: Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, William Howard Taft, Woodrow Wilson, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard M. Nixon, Gerald R. Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama. It is one of the oldest and largest all-wooden buildings in California and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977 and is designated California Historical Landmark. (Source: Wikipedia)

When it is old there is always association with the place being haunted. Upon checking on the web it was confirmed that there are two rooms in the hotels that have reports of paranormal activities. The first is the legendary ghost of Katie Morgan. She was said to checked in the hotel and disappeared without checking out. Some said she was murdered and some said she committed suicide. Who knows.....! Anyway, if you dare, ask for room 3312.

The other is room 502 (now 3502) was rumored to be the love nest of hotel builder and owner E. S. Babcock. The ill-fated mistress staying in this room took her own life soon after learning she was with child. The body later disappeared, perhaps removed by someone wishing to avoid an ugly scandal. Today, lights sometimes flicker in the room, and outside the door, an icy chill may be felt. (Source: http://gothere.com/sandiego/Ghosts/HotelDel/default.htm).

Several sightings of apparitions also were reported by hotel staffs at hallways and certain areas of the hotels. I suppose "The Dell" does not need to hire reenactors to spice out the ambiance of the old looking hotel. They already have the permanent ones that show up without prompting.

Entrance signage

Famous front view facing the beach

The "Dragon Tree" that was used as the backdrop for the movie "Some like it hot" starring Marilyn Monroe filmed in 1958.

Hotel garden

Movie memorabilia of "Some like it Hot"

Sunset in front of the hotel

Stay tuned for more of San Diego....!

2010-11-23T15:49:00.017-05:00

San Diego Part 1
by Adrian Yong

As part of my job, I was drafted to attend a work related professional conference at San Diego. Never been to San Diego myself, I was excited about the trip.

Hilton San Diego Bayfront (my hotel)

If you guys plan to visit, I suggest not to stay at the Hilton. It is a cash sink hole basically. Everything is expensive and high speed internet does not comes with it after paying close to $300 per night.

Omni Hotel (Left) and Petco Park (Official site of San Diego Padres)

Scene of the pier next to the hotel

Gaslamp Quarter Historical District

Gaslamp Quater was one of the early establishments of the City of San Diego and its famous former resident includes infamous cowboy Wyatt Earp.

While I was strolling at Gaslamp Quarter Historical District, I saw a Chinese Museum. Out my curiosity, I decided to check it out. Note: Chinatown used to be in the Gaslamp Quarter area. As part of re-development of the area, the Chinese community moved out to other parts of San Diego.

Wrong image that I have in mind

Somehow I have the pre-notion of the image of the early Chinese settlers dressing like the cowboys in Jackie Chan's movie Shanghai Noon. Needless to say, I was wrong. Ops....!

Old model of Chinatown

I did not know there is no Chinatown in San Diego currently. I was told by the staff of the museum there is an area with lots of Chinese restaurants but no Chinatown.

Model of Chinese fishing village

Laundry Ticket Book

Apparently, there was a huge establishment of laundry business catering to the Navy base back in World War II. Except from San Diego Chinese Historical Museum "With scores of war ships stationed here, and hundreds of thousands of uniforms that needed washing, a new breed of Chinese laundry was born (i.e. Wong Lee Laundry, New Life Laundry, Welcome Laundry, and Eagle Laundry). Over the years, they cleaned and pressed shiploads of Navy uniforms and were even known to work shifts around-the-clock". The area is no longer filled with launderers.

Coronado Island

After touring the Gaslamp area, I decided to take the ~~ferry~~ boat to cross to Coronado Island where the famous ~~haunted~~ Hotel Del Coronado awaits me.

Downtown San Diego taken from Coronado Island

It was not kidding when the hotel concierge told me it was a mile walk to the other side of the island to reach the Hotel Del Coronado. I suppose it is my "catch up" workout for years of neglected exercise.

Anyway, till then stay tune for the next part of my journey of San Diego....!

2010-11-23T11:16:00.005-05:00

Moon Silhouette
by Adrian Yong

Lately, we have been bombarded by vampires/supernaturals movies. I thought I could share with you where they get the image of the night as their inspiration.

Taken outside our house with our neighbor's tree

2010-10-31T21:08:00.009-05:00

Fall and Halloween
by Adrian Yong

I cannot believe it is already more than a year since we moved in the house. It was around this time we were unloading things to the house. Serene was still pregnant with Brandon and he kept moving ~~kicking~~ in her belly. This year's Fall/Halloween is more meaningful for us ever since the addition to our household.

Leaves on our front yard

Brandon playing with the pumpkin on our front yard (Notice he has two pumpkins)

2010-10-19T21:10:00.010-05:00

Heaven Hill Farm
by Adrian Yong

Since Halloween is approaching, we thought it might be good idea to check out the pumpkin farms around our area. After searching a few websites online and reading the reviews, we finally decided to check out Heaven Hill Farm. Our initial plan was to bring Brandon and have a nice picture taking action on the pumpkin field. See for yourself what we did over the weekend.

Heaven Hill Farm signage next to the entrance

Mini gourds

Pumpkins and scare crows

Hayride entrance

Strollers parking (we are not the only one with baby)

New York Giants Pumpkin

Brandon putting a surprise face next to the pumpkin

The verdict: The attractions are fun, line for the food is bit long and a bit pricey on the flowers & food items (as expected). We do not mind going back to the farm again when Brandon is old enough to have the hayride.

2010-10-01T15:24:00.005-05:00

Funny Video

Came across this humorous video from Kenny Sia's blog. Too funny not to share.

2010-09-27T08:51:00.012-05:00

Philadelphia's Trip on Labor Day weekend (September 6, 2010)
by Adrian Yong

It has been a while since our last road trip with Brandon. His first road trip was Atlantic City when he was about five months old. We didn't do much as he was too little to be moving around plus the weather wasn't that great.

We have been to Philadelphia many times but since we just want to get away as a family, we figured this would be a good place for a start. Some of Philly's landmarks are just fun to go back again and again. Unfortunately, we didn't go to a lot of the regular places including the Independence Hall. It was covered with scaffolding for an on going restoration project hence not photo-friendly. Plus, with a baby in tow, it is hard to move around as well. Please view the photos of the places we managed to visit.

Reading Terminal Market

Fresh produce at Reading Terminal Market

Biscotti at Reading Terminal Market

Indulgence - sinful desserts at Reading Terminal Market

Custom order chocolate shop at Reading Terminal Market

Benjamin Franklin (Founder of U Penn)

U Penn campus building

Students' notice board at U Penn campus (Reminded me of my college days)

The world famous Wharton School of Business

Finally, Joyous Brandon on the hotel bed

Stay tune for future road trips with Brandon. I am sure we will have more to come. End of the year trip home on the plane will be ~~a torture~~ an adventure. We hope Brandon will be good. It's such a long flight!

2010-09-20T20:17:00.005-05:00

Guess what we had for dinner yesterday (Guest Blogger)

I was at a conference in San Antonio, Texas beginning of the year and was given a new product/concept by McCormick called Recipe Inspirations Rosemary Roasted Chicken with Potatoes. To me I think it is a great idea especially when you do not need to figure out the portion for each seasoning. See for yourself.

What do you think???? Hungry yet....!

2010-09-20T19:57:00.004-05:00

SURPRISE FINDING

We were on the way home from the Malaysian Consulate General in NY. As we got nearer to our house, we saw something lying at the edge of the front lawn. Check out what I am referring to. I am glad that nature took its own course.

The recurring damage (front lawn) - thanks to someone who is now

DEAD!!!

Yeah yeah yeah....! Unfortunately, this is just one of them. There is a pack of them still running around. &^%$@...!

2010-09-18T23:59:00.002-05:00

Brandon's First Trip to the New York City and about

We were supposed to go the Malaysian Consulate to apply for Brandon's Malaysian Birth Certificate to avoid complication visiting our parents in Malaysia at the end of the year. Somehow, I have this feeling things might work as smoothly when dealing with Malaysian civil service. So I called the Malaysian Consulate in New York and surely enough the officer has other engagement on the day we plan to go submit the application. They should have a relieve officer as a back up and not relying on just one person. Well, that's Malaysian civil service for you.

Anyway, since both of us (Serene and Adrian) were having a flex day, we just went ahead and brought Brandon to the city for the first time. Plus Serene's co-workers have been waiting to see Brandon in person for months. Relax and enjoy viewing the pictures..!

Brandon and mommy at Fulton Street Subway Station

Brandon and Daddy (Little Italy -background decorative propping for Feast of Saint Gennaro)

Century 21. If you are in the vicinity of the former World Trade Center, you should check out the "super" discounted departmental store. They carry surplus branded stocks.

Construction activities at the former World Trade Center Site

The controversial Park 51

Here is our take on the controversial mosque project at 49-51 Park Place New York. We suggest Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf to move the mosque to another location respecting the relatives of the victims of 9-11 attacks. Yes, he has the legal rights to build a mosque in the area but he should be sensitive to the families of the victims of the 911 attacks.

Let me tell you a similar story some years ago. A group of Carmelite nuns was living at a convent adjoining Auschwitz and it outraged the Jewish community. This is because the converted convent building was originally been a theater but was utilized during World War II to store gas used in the Auschwitz-Birkenau crematoria.

Out of respect to the Jewish people and at the request of the late Pope John Paul II, the Carmelite nuns moved to another convent in 1993. I think Imam Feisal should do the same. What do you think?

2010-09-18T21:33:00.015-05:00

SQUIRREL = PEST....*&^%$@#! (Guest blogger)

We used to be sympathetic of squirrels after witnessing the aftermath of being ran over on the road. Not anymore after what they have done to my lawn and flower beds. It is getting on my nerves on a daily basis. Holes and holes were dug all over. You would understand that they need to hide their food but digging all over and left the holes open is not even funny.

So one day, I observe one squirrel and see what it does to the lawn. Guess what...! It just keep digging randomly like searching for his lost nuts hence there are holes all over. #@%^&*(!~....! All my hard work of planting the grass has gone to waste. I would repair the lawn/flower beds by recovering the holes back with top soil and the next things the squirrels re-digs the holes again.

I have tried spreading chili powder, peppers and squirrel deterrent and they do not work. It is worst now considering it is starting of Fall season and they are compiling food for the winter season. Perhaps I should buy a BB gun....! Or trap them ~~and drown them~~....!

Hole #1 (Flower Bed)

Hole #2

Hole # 3

Caught in the act..! The CULPRIT...!

Any suggestions to deter or eliminate them are welcomed.

2010-08-30T20:28:00.033-05:00

Gertrude Grisi (Neighbor)

Time flies as it will be our 1st anniversary living in the house. We remember the first time Gert Grisi, our new neighbor greeted us by our names. The previous owner had informed her about us. She was one fine lady and had a good heart.

One night (coincidentally awaken by Brandon), we saw the shining blue and red lights flashing outside our front window. It seemed Gert had a distress call. The next day, we asked Ellen (Gert's lived in nursing assistant) about Gert and she said she was just having fever -nothing major.

Unfortunately, from fever it led to another thing and eventually she was hospitalized for having an infection in her hip replacement area. The doctor operated on her to clean the infection and treated her with antibiotics. At first, she recovered well, but the antibiotics was too strong and it affected the rest of her organs. They started to fail, one-by-one, and the doctor said there was not much they could do. Sadly, the doctor had to stop the antibiotics as it was not helpful to Gert's condition. Gert ate well that day and she left us peacefully the following day (August 20, 2010).

Gert's property (Reminds me of "Three little pigs and the Big bad wolf"). It's the second house built after ours on the street. You won't believe Gert actually kept a record of all the previous owners of our house. Unfortunately, we did not have the chance to obtain it from her. When we first moved in, she reassured us that there was nothing wrong with our house as the previous owners left due to family expansion, job relocation and to retirement homes.

Gert's Garage

(Loretta, Gert's daughter asked us to pick-up whatever we thought were useful as "momentoes")

Gert's garage is like a little museum and it has pieces of history everywhere.

Jewelries

Antique Ice Crusher

Jewelry box

Kitchen wares and house deco

Collection of nails, etc.

Electric lawnmower

Manila Bulletin

(Gert and her husband - Charles, used to live as expats in the Philippines after World War II. Hence, the foreign newspaper)

In ground trash can (back in the old days you would stick the trash bag in there and the garbage man would open and pick it up. Neat huh...! Probaby, less smelly than our usual can these days.)

Gert's tea room. She probably hosted lots of afternoon teas here. The Priest mentioned that Gert had the most active social life ever!

Thank you for being such a good friend and neighbor.

You will be deeply missed by us.

REST IN PEACE.

2010-08-10T10:25:00.004-05:00

Greetings from Brandon

We have been consumed with Brandon and neglected the blog a bit. Sorry......! I am sure parents with kids can understand us. Anyway, Brandon would like to say hi.

Brandon: He he he he....!

Brandon: Mommy Daddy I can crawl (almost)

2010-07-13T19:47:00.005-05:00

The Return of our "Garden Hare" aka Ah Bit (short for rabbit) Part 2

Guess who we saw outside our window today. This was the exact spot where we saw ~~Easter Bunny~~ hare few days ago. Stretching its legs and relaxing on our lawn. I am beginning to wonder if this is the same one that did the same pose just before summer.

2010-07-11T07:30:00.004-05:00

World Cup Fever

Brandon in his orange gear, or
rather Mommy making him into a supporter of tulip country
(orange lips courtesy of sweet tender carrots to top it off!)

2010-07-10T20:30:00.009-05:00

The Return of our "Garden Hare" aka Ah Bit (short for rabbit)

Since Easter is over, we thought the Easter Bunny (I mean hare) is also gone. Guess what..! We were wrong.

There were two in the area and I saw the aftermath of one the hares being ran over by a car. It was quite sad to see it died an awful way. The first one was more interesting as it rested by stretching its legs in our backyard as if it was its home. Try picturing someone laying on a chair tanning at a beach. We suspect that was the one who got ~~murdered~~ ran over since we have not seen it for a while. Anyway, the second one is starting to come to our yard. See for yourself.

Pretending that it didn't see me

Moving to the back of our house (near the well)

2010-07-09T11:06:00.005-05:00

Six months plus

Brandon is doing very well and everyday is a new experience for us. We can't believe it is already passed six months. Enjoy the pictures.

Brandon in his favorite ExerSaucer

Brandon on his feeding chair

Brandon with his mommy

2010-06-30T21:07:00.023-05:00

Summer Fancy Food Show Part 2 - Guest Blogger

There were foreign countries that showcased their products including Malaysia. Some duplicated each others products like olive oil from Spain, Italy and other Mediterranean countries. Enjoy viewing the pictures.

Indomie (#1 selling ramen/instant noodle in Indonesia)

Snacks from France

Miso soup and soba noodles

Italian cheese (60% of the show was filled with Italian food)

Milkmaid model promoting Dutch cheese

Italian roasted pig (Little did I know Italians serve their pig similarly to the Chinese, LOL!)

Malaysia's booth (Kind of pathetic as it was poorly executed. Nothing to shout about compared to other countries.)

Not sure if this is a fancy food show or a World Cup event. South Africa's booth.

India's booth (Usual briyani rice samplings)

China's booth

Spain's booth

Korea's booth

Turkey's booth

Morocco's booth (Attendant promoting his teas. Where is my sheesha?)

Vosges chocolate that everyone is talking about. They have chocolate with bacon bits.

Greek Yogurt seems to be promoted everywhere. Here the Greek Goddess was enthusiastically promoting the product.

Finally, what's everyone is talking about is the fruit called Baobab from Africa. (Hint: The gigantic tree that is always featured in African safari movies and documentary). It seems like it is already a big thing in other regions but has not appeared in the US's food chain yet. I didn't know the tree produces fruit. It was said to have lots of functional benefits and can be added into food or beverage. We shall see whether it will be in our daily product. If you see it add to your packaged food or drinks, do let me know.

2010-06-28T20:50:00.020-05:00

Summer Fancy Food Show Part 1- Guest Blogger

I was offered to go to fancy food show at Jacob K. Javits Center in New York City. I was thinking.....it is either working at my office or going to event outside my office. So I decided to check out the most discussed fancy food show.

The entrance of Fancy Show

It is kind of reminded me of IFT Annual Meeting + Food Expo. If you like food both events would be blasting for you.

One note from the organizer kind of annoyed me as no photography was allowed except for the press. What's the point of showing your products at a trade-show if you do not allow attendees taking picture of it?. It is like going to a car show and no pictures taking are allowed. Duh.....! Haven't they heard of trademarking or copyrighting their inventions? &^%$#@*

To avoid getting thrown out I either took the pictures with permission or discreetly. He he...! Hence the pictures quality might be a little off.

BBQ Beef with Stubb's sauce (Defying me taking picture anyway)

Italian Gelato

Mona Lisa made of jelly bean (s)

Salami (aka Italian sausage)

Fresh mushrooms

More to come. To be continued...!

2010-06-10T20:38:00.005-05:00

The Beautiful Game

Thank you Gary & Rosa for thinking of me -- even when you were both in the Far East! My little Zakumi came all the way from Wal-Mart in Shanghai :).

2010-05-16T15:35:00.018-05:00

Cessna experience- Guest Blogger

Over the last few days, I was tending to a business assignment at my former college (Southern Illinois University at Carbondale). To save travel time, I chose to fly in. To do that I have to fly from St. Louis to Williamson County Regional Airport, Marion. Little did I know they have switched airline (From Great Lakes Airlines to Cape Air). Great Lakes was using the fleet similar to the one below a year ago.

Beechcraft 1900

Fast forward to the future, here is the fleet that ferried me to Marion, a Cessna model 402.

An airline staff loading the bags under the plane and on the wings

The pilots

Could you spot the similar instrument that is used in the car? Hint: Very useful if you are lost

About to land (See the landing strip)

Needless to say it was not a bad experience as related by the president of our communication agency. It was a bit bumpy but overall not a bad ride. If you have not had the chance of flying a Cessna, I strongly suggest you try it. At least now I can say I have ridden the smallest plane in my life.

2010-05-11T12:17:00.011-05:00

Happy Belated Mother's Day

This year is a special Mother's Day celebration. It was Serene's first mother's day. We had lunch at East Japanese restaurant together with grandma. Brandon was with us alright (sleeping). Anyway, happy belated mother's day to all the mothers out there.

Here is one just for Serene.

Happy belated mother's day mommy from Brandon

2010-05-05T22:35:00.010-05:00

In Memory of Edie Summey (Feb 11, 1941 - May 1, 2010) - Guest blogger

I cannot believe Edie has left us. It felt like it was just yesterday I was with her chatting away on the phone. For those who didn't know her, she was my professor's wife (Dr. John Summey). Edie was a like a mother to me. She taught me a lot of things about life and how to live life as well. Instead of remembering her in a sad way, I rather remember her during happier times when she visited us back in 2004.

You will be truly missed by everyone (Serene, Adrian, Brandon and our family)

May you rest in peace.

West New York (2004 visit)

Savoring Malaysian delicacies at Satay in Hoboken

Han Ah Reum at Little Ferry (Korean grocery store)

2010-04-30T22:53:00.019-05:00

A little over four months old- Brandon

He has just turn a little over four months and has been in daycare for almost a month. Despite all the worries and concern about him, it is a truly a life changing experience no money can buy. "Priceless" as the MasterCard ad says it.

Thank mommy for the massage. Zzzzzzzzz!

Little Buddha

Your face look funny daddy..!

2010-04-12T20:42:00.016-05:00

San Antonio, Texas (Conclusion) - Guest blogger Adrian

This is the last part of the San Antonio travel series. Guess who I bumped into during the conference. Surprise surprise......! The conference hired someone famous from the TV series to entertain us. It was ~~George Costanza~~ Jason Alexander of Seinfeld. No video or photography was allowed so I secretly snapped his photo with no flash hence the quality is a bit grainy.

Jason performing as Donny Clay at the conference

Little did I know I would bump into Jason Alexander in person the next day. Here it is "one on one" picture moment with no restrictions. Now I can say I did meet a movie star. Ops I mean TV star.

With Jason Alexander

2010-04-12T15:09:00.001-05:00

Snow Storm Pictures 2010

Here are pictures of the snow storm we have gotten for 2010. Enjoy viewing.

Tree in front of our house

Outside our front window

Cranford Pl (Our street)

Gert's house (Neighbor)

Our house

Front view of our house

Aftermath of snow (next day)

Cranford Pl opposite direction

Spring fever is in the air and Easter is round the corner. Can't wait for Easter bunnies to visit our yard.