Sunday, 26 March 2006
Picked Mom and Gary up downtown. Headed back into West Seattle for breakfast at Easy Street Café. We browsed the cds and LPs. Mike bought some old Hawaiian vintage albums to hang up on the wall.
Drove to Snoqualmie Falls and took pictures. (Hoped we didn’t run into Marissa and Nate on their honeymoon!). Visited the University of Washington and took pictures of all the beautiful cherry blossom trees.
Dinner at Steph and Michael’s. They grilled salmon and Mike had brought Hawaiian food. Suzette and Jerome and kids came over. They just moved here a few months ago, so it was fun to see how they are doing and have a little local connection reunion.
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Saturday, March 25, 2006
On the Day of the Fundraiser for My Dad
Sidelines
By Kalani Simpson
From The Honolulu Star Bulletin, Sunday, March 26, 2006
MAU HAS BEEN FIGHTING FOR THIS NIGHT
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LEGEND has it that John Mau is the one who received the first scholarship in the history of University of Hawaii men's volleyball. He smiles at that. The real story isn't as glamorous as it sounds.
It was a "tuition waiver," he explains. And he and Steve Kop split it. One got $116.25 for the first semester, then the other got it for the other half of the year. This was in 1970, he says, so long ago that Larry Price was their coach.
And how was Price at coaching volleyball?
"Basically, he was a football coach," Mau says, and laughs. But it was Price who hustled, and who cared, who thought volleyball should be a bigger sport at UH (he got some of his football players to come out for the team), who pushed for that first "scholarship." And Mau and Kop are an asterisk in history, now.
What great, wonderful days those were.
UH had its alumni matches last weekend, men's volleyball players from every era coming out to play before the varsity match, and they honored Mau. There are pictures of it, Mau seated in the middle, everyone gathered around him beaming, proud to be there, shining eyes. These are great days, too. They're just harder now.
There will be a party tonight, people coming together "out of the woodwork" to honor him again. They'll celebrate him, and sing songs and tell stories and probably shed a few tears. People who went to elementary school with him will be there, or those he met in his 32 years with City Parks and Recreation or fraternity brothers or old teammates and who knows who else. It's amazing how many people he knows.
"It got bigger and bigger," Mau says.
Close friend Clifton Chee says Mau is just that kind of guy. This party is going to be that kind of night.
"It's a chance for people to get involved and tell me, and interact with me while I'm still alive," Mau says. "That's basically, you know, it. While I'm still around being able to communicate. I look forward to it. It's an opportunity not only for me to see them, but for them to see me. So that's the good thing about it, while I'm still able to ..."
He stops.
His eyes are moist, at the corners.
He's working on a speech, for tonight, for all his family and friends. He wasn't sure of the exact words yet, but it was sure to have a certain theme.
He considers himself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.
IT WAS IN sports that he first noticed something. Playing in his over-50 basketball league, his 3-pointers no longer reached the rim. On the golf course, Chee was suddenly outdriving him, and that was definitely a change. Then, Mau's back started hurting, and he walked kind of stooped over. There was some numbness, and they wondered if it was a pinched nerve.
They finally went to the doctor, but everything was inconclusive. There was one test, then another. "It's the process of elimination," Mau's wife, Bernice, says. Then there was a muscle biopsy, and in October 2004, the diagnosis came like a slap in the face.
Lou Gehrig's Disease. ALS.
"Well, we didn't know what ALS was," Bernice says. "We sat there, we were shocked. We didn't know how to react. Because we didn't know everything about it. All we knew was Charlie Wedemeyer had it. We never really read his literature to find out how devastating it is. It took us a couple days before it really sunk in what was to come. And it was completely -- real hard."
She cleared her throat.
ALS. "Tuesdays With Morrie." The neurodegenerative disease that gradually paralyzes a body until its owner can no longer even breathe.
It seems you can think of so many local people who got it who were active. Wedemeyer. Dick Jensen. Ann Kang. Active, athletes, just like Mau. Nobody knows why.
Isn't that the joke? Didn't a famous athlete have Lou Gehrig's Disease?
Friday, Mau couldn't lift his arms. They know what's coming.
"Being on a ventilator," Mau says, "not being able to communicate."
They know what's coming.
"He sits here all day long now," Bernice says.
"It's just one of those things," John says. "Take it with a grain of salt. One of those things."
NO ONE COULD have handled this as well as John Mau has. No one has as many friends as he does. No one is as consistently as nice a person as he is.
"Even though he was part of the bureaucracy," Chee says, and we all laugh.
But it's true.
He would deal with the public and have every person leaving with a smile. He would come in on weekends or at night just to open a door for someone. As manager of Kapiolani Park and McCoy Pavilion, he was nice to the homeless instead of chasing them away. People notice things like that.
He's so nice, "As a wife, it can be frustrating at times," Bernice says.
It's no surprise that so many are coming out tonight, that he feels so blessed, even now. He's always been surrounded by so many friends, so much love.
That's why this night will mean so much.
"Some people don't want to come by," he says. "It's too devastating, they don't know how to handle it. They don't know what to say."
It's been tough on everyone. At first John didn't want to tell anyone about his ALS because he didn't want people to feel sorry for him. But for Bernice, telling people helped. And through his work at McCoy Pavilion, John knew the Muscular Dystrophy Association had support groups. Those have helped too, hearing how others, and their families, have coped. Bernice needed something like that.
John, well, he's had his bad days. But he's always been upbeat. No one could handle this as well as he has.
"I'm not any more braver than anyone else who is afflicted with a terminal illness," he says.
TONIGHT WILL BE special. So much aloha. So many friends.
Everyone knows what will come. Everyone knows what this is.
"It's good," Mau says. "Do it while I can."
There will be smiles and laughter and tears. Old friends. Good friends. It's going to be so much fun. So much life.
A celebration of how blessed he is for who he is and all he has. These are great days, too.
They're just harder now.
It's the second marriage for both of them, and John and Bernice were still newlyweds when the news hit. There was so much ahead of them, so much to look forward to, so many plans. John says Bernice feels cheated sometimes. How could she not?
Everyone is cheated with something like this.
Bernice has to leave for work, and she grabs her husband by his cheeks, tilts his head back, kisses him full on the lips. Tells him she loves him and goes out the door.
"Some people fight or flee," Mau says. His wife walks to her car.
"She chooses to fight," he says.
He is the luckiest man on the face of the earth.
Kalani Simpson can be reached at ksimpson@starbulletin.com
By Kalani Simpson
From The Honolulu Star Bulletin, Sunday, March 26, 2006
MAU HAS BEEN FIGHTING FOR THIS NIGHT
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LEGEND has it that John Mau is the one who received the first scholarship in the history of University of Hawaii men's volleyball. He smiles at that. The real story isn't as glamorous as it sounds.
It was a "tuition waiver," he explains. And he and Steve Kop split it. One got $116.25 for the first semester, then the other got it for the other half of the year. This was in 1970, he says, so long ago that Larry Price was their coach.
And how was Price at coaching volleyball?
"Basically, he was a football coach," Mau says, and laughs. But it was Price who hustled, and who cared, who thought volleyball should be a bigger sport at UH (he got some of his football players to come out for the team), who pushed for that first "scholarship." And Mau and Kop are an asterisk in history, now.
What great, wonderful days those were.
UH had its alumni matches last weekend, men's volleyball players from every era coming out to play before the varsity match, and they honored Mau. There are pictures of it, Mau seated in the middle, everyone gathered around him beaming, proud to be there, shining eyes. These are great days, too. They're just harder now.
There will be a party tonight, people coming together "out of the woodwork" to honor him again. They'll celebrate him, and sing songs and tell stories and probably shed a few tears. People who went to elementary school with him will be there, or those he met in his 32 years with City Parks and Recreation or fraternity brothers or old teammates and who knows who else. It's amazing how many people he knows.
"It got bigger and bigger," Mau says.
Close friend Clifton Chee says Mau is just that kind of guy. This party is going to be that kind of night.
"It's a chance for people to get involved and tell me, and interact with me while I'm still alive," Mau says. "That's basically, you know, it. While I'm still around being able to communicate. I look forward to it. It's an opportunity not only for me to see them, but for them to see me. So that's the good thing about it, while I'm still able to ..."
He stops.
His eyes are moist, at the corners.
He's working on a speech, for tonight, for all his family and friends. He wasn't sure of the exact words yet, but it was sure to have a certain theme.
He considers himself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.
IT WAS IN sports that he first noticed something. Playing in his over-50 basketball league, his 3-pointers no longer reached the rim. On the golf course, Chee was suddenly outdriving him, and that was definitely a change. Then, Mau's back started hurting, and he walked kind of stooped over. There was some numbness, and they wondered if it was a pinched nerve.
They finally went to the doctor, but everything was inconclusive. There was one test, then another. "It's the process of elimination," Mau's wife, Bernice, says. Then there was a muscle biopsy, and in October 2004, the diagnosis came like a slap in the face.
Lou Gehrig's Disease. ALS.
"Well, we didn't know what ALS was," Bernice says. "We sat there, we were shocked. We didn't know how to react. Because we didn't know everything about it. All we knew was Charlie Wedemeyer had it. We never really read his literature to find out how devastating it is. It took us a couple days before it really sunk in what was to come. And it was completely -- real hard."
She cleared her throat.
ALS. "Tuesdays With Morrie." The neurodegenerative disease that gradually paralyzes a body until its owner can no longer even breathe.
It seems you can think of so many local people who got it who were active. Wedemeyer. Dick Jensen. Ann Kang. Active, athletes, just like Mau. Nobody knows why.
Isn't that the joke? Didn't a famous athlete have Lou Gehrig's Disease?
Friday, Mau couldn't lift his arms. They know what's coming.
"Being on a ventilator," Mau says, "not being able to communicate."
They know what's coming.
"He sits here all day long now," Bernice says.
"It's just one of those things," John says. "Take it with a grain of salt. One of those things."
NO ONE COULD have handled this as well as John Mau has. No one has as many friends as he does. No one is as consistently as nice a person as he is.
"Even though he was part of the bureaucracy," Chee says, and we all laugh.
But it's true.
He would deal with the public and have every person leaving with a smile. He would come in on weekends or at night just to open a door for someone. As manager of Kapiolani Park and McCoy Pavilion, he was nice to the homeless instead of chasing them away. People notice things like that.
He's so nice, "As a wife, it can be frustrating at times," Bernice says.
It's no surprise that so many are coming out tonight, that he feels so blessed, even now. He's always been surrounded by so many friends, so much love.
That's why this night will mean so much.
"Some people don't want to come by," he says. "It's too devastating, they don't know how to handle it. They don't know what to say."
It's been tough on everyone. At first John didn't want to tell anyone about his ALS because he didn't want people to feel sorry for him. But for Bernice, telling people helped. And through his work at McCoy Pavilion, John knew the Muscular Dystrophy Association had support groups. Those have helped too, hearing how others, and their families, have coped. Bernice needed something like that.
John, well, he's had his bad days. But he's always been upbeat. No one could handle this as well as he has.
"I'm not any more braver than anyone else who is afflicted with a terminal illness," he says.
TONIGHT WILL BE special. So much aloha. So many friends.
Everyone knows what will come. Everyone knows what this is.
"It's good," Mau says. "Do it while I can."
There will be smiles and laughter and tears. Old friends. Good friends. It's going to be so much fun. So much life.
A celebration of how blessed he is for who he is and all he has. These are great days, too.
They're just harder now.
It's the second marriage for both of them, and John and Bernice were still newlyweds when the news hit. There was so much ahead of them, so much to look forward to, so many plans. John says Bernice feels cheated sometimes. How could she not?
Everyone is cheated with something like this.
Bernice has to leave for work, and she grabs her husband by his cheeks, tilts his head back, kisses him full on the lips. Tells him she loves him and goes out the door.
"Some people fight or flee," Mau says. His wife walks to her car.
"She chooses to fight," he says.
He is the luckiest man on the face of the earth.
Kalani Simpson can be reached at ksimpson@starbulletin.com
Marissa & Nate's Wedding Day
Saturday, 25 March 2006
Saturday, 25 March 2006
Here's how the day went:
7 am appointment at Bellevue Gene Juarez to get hair done
8:30 am Arrive at church in Redmond for pictures and getting ready
10:30 am Wedding ceremony begins – Couldn’t see the vows from the angle we were standing……Tara, the Maid of Honor, is so tall! Guess that's what the video is for!
12 noon Head to reception at Pickering Barn in Issaquah. Yes, it was a red barn, but really a refurbished hall on the inside. Mike, Steph, and Michael met me there as they didn't go to the wedding ceremony.
Fun reception with over 250 guests, did a little salsa with Heather and Donna (as we reminisced on the days when we took dance lessons together, saw the crazy dancing of the Kaiser siblings, and enjoyed Nate’s “Eye of the Tiger” dance. The Best Man and Maid of Honor did their toasts, and before we enjoyed eating cupcakes (much more fun than a wedding cake, as they had 6 different flavors, mocha, almond, mint chocolate chip, etc.... Marissa and Nate went to "cut the cupcake", they did the traditional linking of arms, looked each other straight in th eyes, paused a moment, and then surprised us all by throwing the cake into the Best Man and Maid of Honor's faces! Tara, the Maid of Honor, managed to escape the cake, but it was all over the Best Man's face. Everyone had a great laugh!
They took many photos of the wedding party outside near a beautiful willow tree.
4 pm Bid farewell to the newlyweds as they headed off to Salish Lodge.
After driving through Alki at sunset, took a long nap…...
7 pm Then, picked up my mom and her boyfriend Gary (who arrived from California this morning). We went to eat at The Crabpot. Shawn helped get us a table and discount.
11 pm Exhausted!
It was a beautiful ceremony, and we got many compliments on our bridesmaid's outfits. It was fun to see and hang out with Seattle friends again. What a fun day!
Saturday, 25 March 2006
Here's how the day went:
7 am appointment at Bellevue Gene Juarez to get hair done
8:30 am Arrive at church in Redmond for pictures and getting ready
10:30 am Wedding ceremony begins – Couldn’t see the vows from the angle we were standing……Tara, the Maid of Honor, is so tall! Guess that's what the video is for!
12 noon Head to reception at Pickering Barn in Issaquah. Yes, it was a red barn, but really a refurbished hall on the inside. Mike, Steph, and Michael met me there as they didn't go to the wedding ceremony.
Fun reception with over 250 guests, did a little salsa with Heather and Donna (as we reminisced on the days when we took dance lessons together, saw the crazy dancing of the Kaiser siblings, and enjoyed Nate’s “Eye of the Tiger” dance. The Best Man and Maid of Honor did their toasts, and before we enjoyed eating cupcakes (much more fun than a wedding cake, as they had 6 different flavors, mocha, almond, mint chocolate chip, etc.... Marissa and Nate went to "cut the cupcake", they did the traditional linking of arms, looked each other straight in th eyes, paused a moment, and then surprised us all by throwing the cake into the Best Man and Maid of Honor's faces! Tara, the Maid of Honor, managed to escape the cake, but it was all over the Best Man's face. Everyone had a great laugh!
They took many photos of the wedding party outside near a beautiful willow tree.
4 pm Bid farewell to the newlyweds as they headed off to Salish Lodge.
After driving through Alki at sunset, took a long nap…...
7 pm Then, picked up my mom and her boyfriend Gary (who arrived from California this morning). We went to eat at The Crabpot. Shawn helped get us a table and discount.
11 pm Exhausted!
It was a beautiful ceremony, and we got many compliments on our bridesmaid's outfits. It was fun to see and hang out with Seattle friends again. What a fun day!
Friday, March 24, 2006
The Day Before The Wedding
Friday, 24 March 2006
After waking up early at Nate’s apartment, Marissa’s sister Bethany dropped me off at the rental car place so I could get some wheels (But first she got pulled over and got a ticket for blocking the intersection….craziness at 8 am!). I had a busy next two days ahead of me. After the morning fiasco, I drove to my hairstylist in Renton to get my hair done. Cut and highlights. The usual. They’re the only ones I trust, so whenever I’m in Seattle, I have to see Tori and Jayme.
Went to the Redmond Methodist church to help decorate the church with family. Then, Nate and I headed to the reception site in Issaquah, which required a long, but scenic drive around Lake Sammamish. We met up with others to decorate Pickering Barn – Coordinating with the previous party was frustrating, but the tule and lights got done in time. Our wedding rehearsal was at 4 pm, so I left at 2 pm to find a place to get a quick manicure and pedicure. Lo and behold, my French mani and pedi took a little too long, and although I was just around the corner from the church, I was late to the rehearsal, with guests and family there and the “mock wedding” already in progress. Oh well, at least I slipped right in with pretty nails.
We finished off the long day with Rehearsal Dinner at a Chinese restaurant. Both sets of parents gave nice, sentimental toasts, as well as one of Nate’s sisters. It was a nice dinner full of many friends and family close to the bride and groom. Marissa’s mom gave us little bridesmaids’ gifts and jewelry to wear on the special day…pretty pearl earrings and necklaces.
Mike phoned to say his flight from San Francisco was delayed, several times. He finally arrived at around 1 am.
After waking up early at Nate’s apartment, Marissa’s sister Bethany dropped me off at the rental car place so I could get some wheels (But first she got pulled over and got a ticket for blocking the intersection….craziness at 8 am!). I had a busy next two days ahead of me. After the morning fiasco, I drove to my hairstylist in Renton to get my hair done. Cut and highlights. The usual. They’re the only ones I trust, so whenever I’m in Seattle, I have to see Tori and Jayme.
Went to the Redmond Methodist church to help decorate the church with family. Then, Nate and I headed to the reception site in Issaquah, which required a long, but scenic drive around Lake Sammamish. We met up with others to decorate Pickering Barn – Coordinating with the previous party was frustrating, but the tule and lights got done in time. Our wedding rehearsal was at 4 pm, so I left at 2 pm to find a place to get a quick manicure and pedicure. Lo and behold, my French mani and pedi took a little too long, and although I was just around the corner from the church, I was late to the rehearsal, with guests and family there and the “mock wedding” already in progress. Oh well, at least I slipped right in with pretty nails.
We finished off the long day with Rehearsal Dinner at a Chinese restaurant. Both sets of parents gave nice, sentimental toasts, as well as one of Nate’s sisters. It was a nice dinner full of many friends and family close to the bride and groom. Marissa’s mom gave us little bridesmaids’ gifts and jewelry to wear on the special day…pretty pearl earrings and necklaces.
Mike phoned to say his flight from San Francisco was delayed, several times. He finally arrived at around 1 am.
The Day Before The Wedding
Friday, 24 March 2006
After waking up early at Nate’s apartment, Marissa’s sister Bethany dropped me off at the rental car place so I could get some wheels (But first she got pulled over and got a ticket for blocking the intersection….craziness at 8 am!). I had a busy next two days ahead of me. After the morning fiasco, I drove to my hairstylist in Renton to get my hair done. Cut and highlights. The usual. They’re the only ones I trust, so whenever I’m in Seattle, I have to see Tori and Jayme.
Went to the Redmond Methodist church to help decorate the church with family. Then, Nate and I headed to the reception site in Issaquah, which required a long, but scenic drive around Lake Sammamish. We met up with others to decorate Pickering Barn – Coordinating with the previous party was frustrating, but the tule and lights got done in time. Our wedding rehearsal was at 4 pm, so I left at 2 pm to find a place to get a quick manicure and pedicure. Lo and behold, my French mani and pedi took a little too long, and although I was just around the corner from the church, I was late to the rehearsal, with guests and family there and the “mock wedding” already in progress. Oh well, at least I slipped right in with pretty nails.
We finished off the long day with Rehearsal Dinner at a Chinese restaurant. Both sets of parents gave nice, sentimental toasts, as well as one of Nate’s sisters. It was a nice dinner full of many friends and family close to the bride and groom. Marissa’s mom gave us little bridesmaids’ gifts and jewelry to wear on the special day…pretty pearl earrings and necklaces.
Mike phoned to say his flight from San Francisco was delayed, several times. He finally arrived at around 1 am.
After waking up early at Nate’s apartment, Marissa’s sister Bethany dropped me off at the rental car place so I could get some wheels (But first she got pulled over and got a ticket for blocking the intersection….craziness at 8 am!). I had a busy next two days ahead of me. After the morning fiasco, I drove to my hairstylist in Renton to get my hair done. Cut and highlights. The usual. They’re the only ones I trust, so whenever I’m in Seattle, I have to see Tori and Jayme.
Went to the Redmond Methodist church to help decorate the church with family. Then, Nate and I headed to the reception site in Issaquah, which required a long, but scenic drive around Lake Sammamish. We met up with others to decorate Pickering Barn – Coordinating with the previous party was frustrating, but the tule and lights got done in time. Our wedding rehearsal was at 4 pm, so I left at 2 pm to find a place to get a quick manicure and pedicure. Lo and behold, my French mani and pedi took a little too long, and although I was just around the corner from the church, I was late to the rehearsal, with guests and family there and the “mock wedding” already in progress. Oh well, at least I slipped right in with pretty nails.
We finished off the long day with Rehearsal Dinner at a Chinese restaurant. Both sets of parents gave nice, sentimental toasts, as well as one of Nate’s sisters. It was a nice dinner full of many friends and family close to the bride and groom. Marissa’s mom gave us little bridesmaids’ gifts and jewelry to wear on the special day…pretty pearl earrings and necklaces.
Mike phoned to say his flight from San Francisco was delayed, several times. He finally arrived at around 1 am.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Marissa's Classy Bachelorette Party
Thursday, 23 March 2006
I walked to about ten blocks to yoga in the morning. I wasn’t sure what time class was, so I went at 8:45 am, but class wasn’t until 9:30 am. I got to chat with the owners, Neil and Amber, who were happy to see me. I told them Marissa was getting married this weekend (Marissa got me started at this studio, and we went to yoga together.) It was neat to visit my old yoga studio, nice and familiar. After my workout, I hurried back to my cousin’s house to shower and get ready. Marissa came to pick me up, and we headed to her grandparents’ in Bellevue.
We waited for the florist and other relatives and friends to arrive. We spent the day assembling things, flowers, boutineers, programs, adding tags to the favors, and quickly trying to get EVERYTHING done.
Marissa and I left at around 5 pm and went to her house to get ready. We then headed to Nate’s condo commons room where Tara and Barbara and friends were waiting with martinis in hand, appetizers overflowing, Frank Sinatra music playing, and pink and black décor. Marissa was instructed to wear pink, and the rest of the guests wore black.
We had a blast in a very classy, martini party, and then headed out to Belltown for some dancing and a photo scavenger hunt of tasks that Marissa had to complete before the evening’s end.
I walked to about ten blocks to yoga in the morning. I wasn’t sure what time class was, so I went at 8:45 am, but class wasn’t until 9:30 am. I got to chat with the owners, Neil and Amber, who were happy to see me. I told them Marissa was getting married this weekend (Marissa got me started at this studio, and we went to yoga together.) It was neat to visit my old yoga studio, nice and familiar. After my workout, I hurried back to my cousin’s house to shower and get ready. Marissa came to pick me up, and we headed to her grandparents’ in Bellevue.
We waited for the florist and other relatives and friends to arrive. We spent the day assembling things, flowers, boutineers, programs, adding tags to the favors, and quickly trying to get EVERYTHING done.
Marissa and I left at around 5 pm and went to her house to get ready. We then headed to Nate’s condo commons room where Tara and Barbara and friends were waiting with martinis in hand, appetizers overflowing, Frank Sinatra music playing, and pink and black décor. Marissa was instructed to wear pink, and the rest of the guests wore black.
We had a blast in a very classy, martini party, and then headed out to Belltown for some dancing and a photo scavenger hunt of tasks that Marissa had to complete before the evening’s end.
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
Seattle Bound
Wednesday, 22 March 2006
After I finished work at noon today, Mike picked me up, we got my stuff at my house, and then we headed off to the airport. Got into Seattle at 10 pm. Steph, Michael, and baby Jake picked me up. Jake was sleeping when I got in the car. When he woke up, I was right in his face, and he wailed! He wasn't quite sure who I was, tonight, and even for the next few days. He was probably thinking, "You look kinda like my mom, but you're not my mom. Who the hell are ya?" It was nice to spend time with them and stay at their ever-remodeling house in West Seattle.
After I finished work at noon today, Mike picked me up, we got my stuff at my house, and then we headed off to the airport. Got into Seattle at 10 pm. Steph, Michael, and baby Jake picked me up. Jake was sleeping when I got in the car. When he woke up, I was right in his face, and he wailed! He wasn't quite sure who I was, tonight, and even for the next few days. He was probably thinking, "You look kinda like my mom, but you're not my mom. Who the hell are ya?" It was nice to spend time with them and stay at their ever-remodeling house in West Seattle.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Song Contest
Friday, 17 March 2006
Happy St. Patrick's Day! I forgot to wear green today, and my kindergartner told me that my shamrock sticker was "too little" and she was going to pinch me anyway!
My older boys had fun with Bert again. Bert is the Jackson chameleon Mike rescued from the street about a month ago. I brought him to school because we are writing animal reports and the students thought it was the coolest thing when I brought him yesterday. Today, we looked for bugs and watched Bert lick them up.
Picked up lunch for my brother and dad and showered Dad earlier as they need to head to the song contest at 4:30 pm. Tonight is the Kamehameha Schools' Song Contest. It's been 12 years since I was in this televised live cultural event. It will be my first time as a spectator, and my stepsister Lindsey's first time as a participant (she's a freshman). My cousins Lauren and Geoffrey, in 10th and 11th grade respectively, will also be participating. I picked up lei for them, and I'm dragging Mike with me. Tonight's event features the music of Lena Machado. Song contest means a lot more to me as a graduate of Kamehameha Schools, which made me so proud of my Hawaiian culture and heritage. Basically for the past three months, the daily schedule of the high schoolers change so that all of the students (since it's a graduation requirement, no one can claim that they CAN'T sing) practice selected songs for women's, men's, and combined class competitions. The students are judged on musicality and Hawaiian language. It is an amazing cultural event including hula and more singing, all student led and student produced, on live television. Each class has a different color, and will be wearing lei to show their unified class color. So, I bought a pink 'ohia lehua lei for Lauren, a green leaf lei for Geoff, and well, I couldn't find a red flower lei for Lindsey, so I bought a nice fragrant ginger lei instead. I'm excited.
Happy St. Patrick's Day! I forgot to wear green today, and my kindergartner told me that my shamrock sticker was "too little" and she was going to pinch me anyway!
My older boys had fun with Bert again. Bert is the Jackson chameleon Mike rescued from the street about a month ago. I brought him to school because we are writing animal reports and the students thought it was the coolest thing when I brought him yesterday. Today, we looked for bugs and watched Bert lick them up.
Picked up lunch for my brother and dad and showered Dad earlier as they need to head to the song contest at 4:30 pm. Tonight is the Kamehameha Schools' Song Contest. It's been 12 years since I was in this televised live cultural event. It will be my first time as a spectator, and my stepsister Lindsey's first time as a participant (she's a freshman). My cousins Lauren and Geoffrey, in 10th and 11th grade respectively, will also be participating. I picked up lei for them, and I'm dragging Mike with me. Tonight's event features the music of Lena Machado. Song contest means a lot more to me as a graduate of Kamehameha Schools, which made me so proud of my Hawaiian culture and heritage. Basically for the past three months, the daily schedule of the high schoolers change so that all of the students (since it's a graduation requirement, no one can claim that they CAN'T sing) practice selected songs for women's, men's, and combined class competitions. The students are judged on musicality and Hawaiian language. It is an amazing cultural event including hula and more singing, all student led and student produced, on live television. Each class has a different color, and will be wearing lei to show their unified class color. So, I bought a pink 'ohia lehua lei for Lauren, a green leaf lei for Geoff, and well, I couldn't find a red flower lei for Lindsey, so I bought a nice fragrant ginger lei instead. I'm excited.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
UH Alumni Volleyball Game - Dedicated to Dad
Thursday, 16 March 2006
Yes, I know I've been told I've been slacking on the blog writing. Well, in the midst of putting together over 350 wedding favors, working, preparing for my dad's fundraiser, and going to yoga, it's been hard to keep up. You would think the weather would be allowing me to be indoors more, therefore enabling me to write more, but that is not the case. Unfortunately, we've had flash flood warnings the past couple of weeks and Kaua'i took a major hit yesterday with a dam bursting, houses being swept away, and people missing. I don't remember Hawai'i being so rainy like this. Let's just say I won't be coming to Seattle with a suntan.
My dad and I shed a few tears this afternoon. Not over the recent news, but because of a mention in a newspaper article in today's Honolulu Star Bulletin. The University of Hawai'i Alumni Volleyball game is this Saturday, and although my dad usually competes in the games, he will be watching from the sidelines this time. Amidst the tears, my dad managed to remind me that they got the dates wrong in the article. He played for UH from '66-'70. And, as he explained his emotional response, he said that the amount of support through all of this is overwhelming. The game will be a nice tribute to my dad indeed.
WARRIOR VOLLEYBALL
Salmeri gets chance to play with alumni
By Cindy Luis
cluis@starbulletin.com
Jason Salmeri has been working hard in the practice gym with this year's edition of the Hawaii men's volleyball team. On Saturday, Salmeri -- hired as an assistant in December -- will get to pick on someone his own age.
Men's Volleyball
Who: Loyola-Chicago (16-4) at No. 4 Hawaii (13-4)
When: Tomorrow and Saturday, 7 p.m. Saturday's alumni matches, 4 p.m. (1950s-'80s) and 4:45 p.m. ('90s-2000s).
Tickets: $3-$4.
TV: Live, KFVE Ch. 5
Radio: Saturday live, KKEA, 1420-AM
Series: Hawaii leads 5-1
The former Warrior middle blocker is competing in his first alumni match, a contest that could be just as competitive as the following one that pits No. 3 Hawaii against Loyola-Chicago. Salmeri will join other players from the past 15 years in a best-of-three match at 4:45 p.m.
Among those who have committed are former All-Americans Costas Theocharidis and Pedro Azenha, the latter joining Daniel Rasay as UH's newest alumni players. Also returning are members of the Warriors' 1996 NCAA runner-up squad Mason Kuo, Kahinu Lee, Curt Vaughan, Gavin Cook, Troy Hotz, David Tang and Sivan Leoni.
"It looks to be a really good match and I hope people come early to see it," said Salmeri, who played in 1997 and '98. "We've got Costas and Pedro banging away on the outsides, Eyal (Zimet) is in great shape, has been playing every day.
"And we've got Sivan. He's one in a million."
Leoni, the boys volleyball coach at Kalaheo, played from 1995 to 1998 and was known for his on-court antics. Two of Leoni's teammates and fellow Israelis -- All-American Yuval Katz and Naveh Milo -- were unable to return.
"I've been in contact with Naveh and he says one of these times, he and Yuval will be back," said Salmeri, who played in Israel for part of his seven-year pro career. "I would love to see Yuval go against Costas. So would the fans."
Fans, lots of them, turned out for Katz & Co. regularly some 10 years ago. Although Hawaii has led the country in attendance every year since moving to the Stan Sheriff Center in 1995, that streak could be in jeopardy this season.
According to UH statistics, the team has drawn 34,563 in nine home matches, an average of 3,840, with six regular-season home matches remaining. BYU has 43,716 in 12 home dates, an average of 3,643, with two home matches remaining.
The UH administration is concerned with the drop in attendance from an all-time high of 142,732 10 years ago. There is a direct correlation between the decline in fans and increased ticket prices -- in 1996, the top price for a ticket was $8; this season, it's $14, which does not include the premium seating "donation" for season ticket holders.
Warrior coach Mike Wilton has been asked to draft a proposal that might help the situation. However, it isn't likely to be implemented until next season.
"Price is part of the issue," Wilton said. "Two years ago, we had 8,000 for the UCLA match. We didn't have 4,000 (turnstile) Saturday (for UCLA).
"I know we're on the same page as the administration and that something can be done."
"I'll be brutally honest," Salmeri said. "I'm disappointed in the crowds. There is such a large volleyball community here, and they're not showing up.
"I think more people are staying home and watching (on TV). We're playing the most exciting volleyball in years. When I see our defense, I'm thinking it's Wahine volleyball with bigger hitters. I hope more people will realize how special this team is. It's a great group of guys."
Hawaii, second in the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation, puts its nine-match winning streak on the line tomorrow with Loyola-Chicago. The Ramblers (16-4) opened 10-0 before losing at Ball State on Feb. 10. Their other three losses came last week on the road when losing to UC Irvine 3-0, UCLA 3-2 and Cal Baptist 3-2.
Notes: Tomorrow's St. Patrick's Day promotion is "Think Green and Save Some Green."
UH students wearing green shirts will be admitted free when showing a valid student ID. Admission is also free to youth (high school age and under) wearing a green shirt.
Saturday's matches are dedicated to former UH player John Mau (1969-70), who has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (also known as Lou Gehrig's disease). Mau is scheduled to attend.
There is also a benefit buffet dinner for Mau on March 26 at Tree Tops at Manoa (Paradise Park). The cost is $100 and reservations are due by tomorrow.
Checks can be mailed to: Friends of John Mau, 3275 Pauma Place, Honolulu, 96822. For more information, contact Clift Chee at 988-4321 or cheec006@hawaii.rr.com, or Dave Au at davea@pbrc.hawaii.edu.
Yes, I know I've been told I've been slacking on the blog writing. Well, in the midst of putting together over 350 wedding favors, working, preparing for my dad's fundraiser, and going to yoga, it's been hard to keep up. You would think the weather would be allowing me to be indoors more, therefore enabling me to write more, but that is not the case. Unfortunately, we've had flash flood warnings the past couple of weeks and Kaua'i took a major hit yesterday with a dam bursting, houses being swept away, and people missing. I don't remember Hawai'i being so rainy like this. Let's just say I won't be coming to Seattle with a suntan.
My dad and I shed a few tears this afternoon. Not over the recent news, but because of a mention in a newspaper article in today's Honolulu Star Bulletin. The University of Hawai'i Alumni Volleyball game is this Saturday, and although my dad usually competes in the games, he will be watching from the sidelines this time. Amidst the tears, my dad managed to remind me that they got the dates wrong in the article. He played for UH from '66-'70. And, as he explained his emotional response, he said that the amount of support through all of this is overwhelming. The game will be a nice tribute to my dad indeed.
WARRIOR VOLLEYBALL
Salmeri gets chance to play with alumni
By Cindy Luis
cluis@starbulletin.com
Jason Salmeri has been working hard in the practice gym with this year's edition of the Hawaii men's volleyball team. On Saturday, Salmeri -- hired as an assistant in December -- will get to pick on someone his own age.
Men's Volleyball
Who: Loyola-Chicago (16-4) at No. 4 Hawaii (13-4)
When: Tomorrow and Saturday, 7 p.m. Saturday's alumni matches, 4 p.m. (1950s-'80s) and 4:45 p.m. ('90s-2000s).
Tickets: $3-$4.
TV: Live, KFVE Ch. 5
Radio: Saturday live, KKEA, 1420-AM
Series: Hawaii leads 5-1
The former Warrior middle blocker is competing in his first alumni match, a contest that could be just as competitive as the following one that pits No. 3 Hawaii against Loyola-Chicago. Salmeri will join other players from the past 15 years in a best-of-three match at 4:45 p.m.
Among those who have committed are former All-Americans Costas Theocharidis and Pedro Azenha, the latter joining Daniel Rasay as UH's newest alumni players. Also returning are members of the Warriors' 1996 NCAA runner-up squad Mason Kuo, Kahinu Lee, Curt Vaughan, Gavin Cook, Troy Hotz, David Tang and Sivan Leoni.
"It looks to be a really good match and I hope people come early to see it," said Salmeri, who played in 1997 and '98. "We've got Costas and Pedro banging away on the outsides, Eyal (Zimet) is in great shape, has been playing every day.
"And we've got Sivan. He's one in a million."
Leoni, the boys volleyball coach at Kalaheo, played from 1995 to 1998 and was known for his on-court antics. Two of Leoni's teammates and fellow Israelis -- All-American Yuval Katz and Naveh Milo -- were unable to return.
"I've been in contact with Naveh and he says one of these times, he and Yuval will be back," said Salmeri, who played in Israel for part of his seven-year pro career. "I would love to see Yuval go against Costas. So would the fans."
Fans, lots of them, turned out for Katz & Co. regularly some 10 years ago. Although Hawaii has led the country in attendance every year since moving to the Stan Sheriff Center in 1995, that streak could be in jeopardy this season.
According to UH statistics, the team has drawn 34,563 in nine home matches, an average of 3,840, with six regular-season home matches remaining. BYU has 43,716 in 12 home dates, an average of 3,643, with two home matches remaining.
The UH administration is concerned with the drop in attendance from an all-time high of 142,732 10 years ago. There is a direct correlation between the decline in fans and increased ticket prices -- in 1996, the top price for a ticket was $8; this season, it's $14, which does not include the premium seating "donation" for season ticket holders.
Warrior coach Mike Wilton has been asked to draft a proposal that might help the situation. However, it isn't likely to be implemented until next season.
"Price is part of the issue," Wilton said. "Two years ago, we had 8,000 for the UCLA match. We didn't have 4,000 (turnstile) Saturday (for UCLA).
"I know we're on the same page as the administration and that something can be done."
"I'll be brutally honest," Salmeri said. "I'm disappointed in the crowds. There is such a large volleyball community here, and they're not showing up.
"I think more people are staying home and watching (on TV). We're playing the most exciting volleyball in years. When I see our defense, I'm thinking it's Wahine volleyball with bigger hitters. I hope more people will realize how special this team is. It's a great group of guys."
Hawaii, second in the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation, puts its nine-match winning streak on the line tomorrow with Loyola-Chicago. The Ramblers (16-4) opened 10-0 before losing at Ball State on Feb. 10. Their other three losses came last week on the road when losing to UC Irvine 3-0, UCLA 3-2 and Cal Baptist 3-2.
Notes: Tomorrow's St. Patrick's Day promotion is "Think Green and Save Some Green."
UH students wearing green shirts will be admitted free when showing a valid student ID. Admission is also free to youth (high school age and under) wearing a green shirt.
Saturday's matches are dedicated to former UH player John Mau (1969-70), who has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (also known as Lou Gehrig's disease). Mau is scheduled to attend.
There is also a benefit buffet dinner for Mau on March 26 at Tree Tops at Manoa (Paradise Park). The cost is $100 and reservations are due by tomorrow.
Checks can be mailed to: Friends of John Mau, 3275 Pauma Place, Honolulu, 96822. For more information, contact Clift Chee at 988-4321 or cheec006@hawaii.rr.com, or Dave Au at davea@pbrc.hawaii.edu.
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Write To "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition"
Please go to www.abc.com and go to the "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" link. My stepmom's sister submitted an application for us last year, but we never heard back. We're trying again, knowing that at this time, they are looking specifically for families who are undergoing challenges and hardships. Please write to "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" to advocate for my dad and the family! I'm doing the application right now!
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
These Are a Few Of My Favorite Things
Wednesday, 8 March 2006
My Favorite Things These Days:
* My Ipod FM Transmitter - So that I can play all of my music that I like while I drive, leave the cds at home, and enjoy all 4,000 of my songs.
* Wasabi nori chips (and an assortment of other junk food snacks)
My Least Favorite Things These Days:
* Kaliko (my brother's dog) barking and growling from 3:30 - 6 am each night
* Mosquitoes - They loved me in Thailand and they still love me here in Hawai'i. I might have to start coating myself with bug spray before I go to sleep and start sleeping with the bug zapper near my head.
Things To Do in the Next Two Weeks Before I Leave for Seattle:
* Make a picture/photo collage of my dad for his fundraiser
* Put together 350 favors for Marissa & Nate's wedding
* Have my skirt sewn, get a camisole, find shoes, and put the entire bridesmaid ensemble together to see how it looks
* Do my taxes
* Pick up Suzette's clothes to bring to Seattle
* Host my cousin Lauren's 16th birthday at our house
* Start doing report cards as the 3rd quarter ends, and they will be due after Spring Break
* Stop Kaliko from barking before I take her to the Humane Society
My Favorite Things These Days:
* My Ipod FM Transmitter - So that I can play all of my music that I like while I drive, leave the cds at home, and enjoy all 4,000 of my songs.
* Wasabi nori chips (and an assortment of other junk food snacks)
My Least Favorite Things These Days:
* Kaliko (my brother's dog) barking and growling from 3:30 - 6 am each night
* Mosquitoes - They loved me in Thailand and they still love me here in Hawai'i. I might have to start coating myself with bug spray before I go to sleep and start sleeping with the bug zapper near my head.
Things To Do in the Next Two Weeks Before I Leave for Seattle:
* Make a picture/photo collage of my dad for his fundraiser
* Put together 350 favors for Marissa & Nate's wedding
* Have my skirt sewn, get a camisole, find shoes, and put the entire bridesmaid ensemble together to see how it looks
* Do my taxes
* Pick up Suzette's clothes to bring to Seattle
* Host my cousin Lauren's 16th birthday at our house
* Start doing report cards as the 3rd quarter ends, and they will be due after Spring Break
* Stop Kaliko from barking before I take her to the Humane Society
Monday, March 06, 2006
Catching Up
Tuesday, 7 March 2006
Wow, it really has been awhile since I've written! These past few months have flown by.....How can I sum up this past month?
Hmmmm....
As I go along with the routine of Bikram yoga four times per week (still nursing my left hamstring I hurt weeks ago, but I've been told it will take awhile for it to get to 100%, especially since I keep pushing it harder than I should), my dog waking me up at all hours of the night (she kept me up since 3:30 am this morning - I'm still in search of a muzzle that she will not take off within 30 seconds), spending time in Kailua with Mike, going to many professional development meetings and trainings (seems as if I hardly teach these days, and it's already the end of the third quarter!), and collecting donations from friends and family for my dad's upcoming fundraiser, here are some highlights of the past month:
* Mike's friend Wendy visited from South Carolina and we took her to the Art After Dark at the Honolulu Academy of Arts. We also went to the Kamehameha Schools' Ho'olaule'a, a festival/fair of sorts at my old high school campus, with good local eats, local plants for the garden (which Mike bought plenty of for his house!),Hawaiian music and entertainment (of course, there were malasadas!), and the famous "haole brownies" mix to bring home from the country store. On her last day, we also went to the swap meet to buy some goodies and ate dim sum in Chinatown.
* A week ago, my really bad day started off at 6:30 am when, after driving into town from Kailua, I rushed and pulled into my driveway, swiping my brother's brand new 2006 truck. His monster truck ended up with a little boo-boo on the bumper, and left some nice scratches and dents on my side of the truck. The day only got worse after that, but then my spirits were lifted when I took my dad to meet Peggy Chun for a visit. Peggy is a local artist who was diagnosed with genetic ALS in 2002. (Her grandfather, mother, and twin sister all died of this rare form of the disease, although it has progressed the same as my dad's. Peggy now lives with a feeding tube and trach and can only move her eyes.) I had met her daughter-in-law Kimi the day before when I went to listen to and participate in a professional development training on ALS at a nursing home. She was excited to offer me donations (three signed beautiful paintings by Peggy) for my dad's fundraiser and said to come by and visit. Although Peggy only has the use of her eyes, she uses the ERICA computer system to communicate and was very talkative with us. Even though we were late, she and her nurses were so gracious, meeting us outside with umbrellas on the rainy day. Peggy's room was filled with tons of art (not a blank white space in the room) surrounding her bed, Native American paintings by her sister (who was actually the artist, but after she passed in 1987, Peggy picked up the paintbrush), paintings by Peggy, photos of family, signs for the nurses and visitors to please let Peggy finish typing her thought before interrupting her sentence. Peggy typed her conversation so fast using her eyes, and she wanted to share so much information on what devices to use for swollen feet, braces for the hands to prevent the fingers from curling, nursing care, keeping a sense of humor, and how important it is to start a "Share the Care" group (She said she'd even talk to Bernie to convince her.) She told us about all of these experimental drug programs she's participated in, a sleep test he should take to monitor his oxygen levels, gene tests to find out if there perhaps specific genes related to ALS, etc. Eventually Kimi told us we probably should go because Peggy would talk forever, and she might be better over email. I took a whole page of notes while we were there. They sent us off with the three art pieces, and Peggy called us "new friends". It was so nice to meet Peggy and Kimi. Kimi has since wrote saying Peggy wants to have us over for a dinner party.
* We now have new care providers, Emma and her niece Mosi, who will help watch my dad in the mornings when my brother or I can't be there, since my Uncle Jimmy moved back to California last week Thursday (He was here for 10 months to spend time with my dad and to help his body recuperate as he has a rare kidney disease.)
* This past Friday, Mike spent time with his niece and nephews in shifts. I came for the later shift, to play with "Bert", the fat Jackson chameleon Mike found down the street and has now adopted as a pet, to eat Macaroni and Cheese with green Power Ranger food (a.k.a. Spinach), and watch Shrek 2 with the boys.
* My good friend Joel fixed my brakes this Sunday (yeah, the squeaking is gone!!! Too bad my dents are still there on the side of my car...But, really, thanks soooo much Joel!) after I spent the day helping Miya shop with the baby. She's offically "retired" as she calls it, quit her job to be a stay-at-home mom. But, she still hasn't figured out how to grocery shop with baby in tow, so I pushed the cart. I'm sure there will be many more days where I help mommy and baby!
* Had an Oscar-viewing party at Miya's. We all put our votes in for which movies and actors would win, along with $5 each. The pot went to the winner with the most correct votes. Unfortunately, I did not win. The new stay-at-home mommy did. Surprise, surprise.
Wow, it really has been awhile since I've written! These past few months have flown by.....How can I sum up this past month?
Hmmmm....
As I go along with the routine of Bikram yoga four times per week (still nursing my left hamstring I hurt weeks ago, but I've been told it will take awhile for it to get to 100%, especially since I keep pushing it harder than I should), my dog waking me up at all hours of the night (she kept me up since 3:30 am this morning - I'm still in search of a muzzle that she will not take off within 30 seconds), spending time in Kailua with Mike, going to many professional development meetings and trainings (seems as if I hardly teach these days, and it's already the end of the third quarter!), and collecting donations from friends and family for my dad's upcoming fundraiser, here are some highlights of the past month:
* Mike's friend Wendy visited from South Carolina and we took her to the Art After Dark at the Honolulu Academy of Arts. We also went to the Kamehameha Schools' Ho'olaule'a, a festival/fair of sorts at my old high school campus, with good local eats, local plants for the garden (which Mike bought plenty of for his house!),Hawaiian music and entertainment (of course, there were malasadas!), and the famous "haole brownies" mix to bring home from the country store. On her last day, we also went to the swap meet to buy some goodies and ate dim sum in Chinatown.
* A week ago, my really bad day started off at 6:30 am when, after driving into town from Kailua, I rushed and pulled into my driveway, swiping my brother's brand new 2006 truck. His monster truck ended up with a little boo-boo on the bumper, and left some nice scratches and dents on my side of the truck. The day only got worse after that, but then my spirits were lifted when I took my dad to meet Peggy Chun for a visit. Peggy is a local artist who was diagnosed with genetic ALS in 2002. (Her grandfather, mother, and twin sister all died of this rare form of the disease, although it has progressed the same as my dad's. Peggy now lives with a feeding tube and trach and can only move her eyes.) I had met her daughter-in-law Kimi the day before when I went to listen to and participate in a professional development training on ALS at a nursing home. She was excited to offer me donations (three signed beautiful paintings by Peggy) for my dad's fundraiser and said to come by and visit. Although Peggy only has the use of her eyes, she uses the ERICA computer system to communicate and was very talkative with us. Even though we were late, she and her nurses were so gracious, meeting us outside with umbrellas on the rainy day. Peggy's room was filled with tons of art (not a blank white space in the room) surrounding her bed, Native American paintings by her sister (who was actually the artist, but after she passed in 1987, Peggy picked up the paintbrush), paintings by Peggy, photos of family, signs for the nurses and visitors to please let Peggy finish typing her thought before interrupting her sentence. Peggy typed her conversation so fast using her eyes, and she wanted to share so much information on what devices to use for swollen feet, braces for the hands to prevent the fingers from curling, nursing care, keeping a sense of humor, and how important it is to start a "Share the Care" group (She said she'd even talk to Bernie to convince her.) She told us about all of these experimental drug programs she's participated in, a sleep test he should take to monitor his oxygen levels, gene tests to find out if there perhaps specific genes related to ALS, etc. Eventually Kimi told us we probably should go because Peggy would talk forever, and she might be better over email. I took a whole page of notes while we were there. They sent us off with the three art pieces, and Peggy called us "new friends". It was so nice to meet Peggy and Kimi. Kimi has since wrote saying Peggy wants to have us over for a dinner party.
* We now have new care providers, Emma and her niece Mosi, who will help watch my dad in the mornings when my brother or I can't be there, since my Uncle Jimmy moved back to California last week Thursday (He was here for 10 months to spend time with my dad and to help his body recuperate as he has a rare kidney disease.)
* This past Friday, Mike spent time with his niece and nephews in shifts. I came for the later shift, to play with "Bert", the fat Jackson chameleon Mike found down the street and has now adopted as a pet, to eat Macaroni and Cheese with green Power Ranger food (a.k.a. Spinach), and watch Shrek 2 with the boys.
* My good friend Joel fixed my brakes this Sunday (yeah, the squeaking is gone!!! Too bad my dents are still there on the side of my car...But, really, thanks soooo much Joel!) after I spent the day helping Miya shop with the baby. She's offically "retired" as she calls it, quit her job to be a stay-at-home mom. But, she still hasn't figured out how to grocery shop with baby in tow, so I pushed the cart. I'm sure there will be many more days where I help mommy and baby!
* Had an Oscar-viewing party at Miya's. We all put our votes in for which movies and actors would win, along with $5 each. The pot went to the winner with the most correct votes. Unfortunately, I did not win. The new stay-at-home mommy did. Surprise, surprise.
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