Jake with Aunty T
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Monday, September 25, 2006
Like 'Sex & The City'
Monday, 25 September 2006
I felt like I was calling Dr. Phil or Frasier tonight when I called in to my friend's new radio show tonight. It's on relationships, and me being what one friend calls "The Professional Dater", called in to help kickstart my friend's debut. She prepped me on what the topics would be, and once I found the correct station on the radio, I called in to give my two cents. Kinda funny because her co-host is someone we both met and dated from the same online site. So, it felt comfortable, like we were all just shooting the breeze. Although I used an alias...just in case. We talked about the pros and cons of online dating, and I emphasized how it depends what stage in your life you are in, and what you are looking for. With online dating, you must expect that everyone is out there dating everyone else...Juggling, as one might call it. But, if you are open and honest with those you are dating, then it shouldn't be a problem, until the "dating" level changes the relationship to a new level. Keeping it light is important, and if the right chemistry is there, then it may evolve into something more. But, I think keeping your options open is not such a bad thing. After all, how are you supposed to know exactly what you want if you don't know what's out there to begin with?
I felt like I was calling Dr. Phil or Frasier tonight when I called in to my friend's new radio show tonight. It's on relationships, and me being what one friend calls "The Professional Dater", called in to help kickstart my friend's debut. She prepped me on what the topics would be, and once I found the correct station on the radio, I called in to give my two cents. Kinda funny because her co-host is someone we both met and dated from the same online site. So, it felt comfortable, like we were all just shooting the breeze. Although I used an alias...just in case. We talked about the pros and cons of online dating, and I emphasized how it depends what stage in your life you are in, and what you are looking for. With online dating, you must expect that everyone is out there dating everyone else...Juggling, as one might call it. But, if you are open and honest with those you are dating, then it shouldn't be a problem, until the "dating" level changes the relationship to a new level. Keeping it light is important, and if the right chemistry is there, then it may evolve into something more. But, I think keeping your options open is not such a bad thing. After all, how are you supposed to know exactly what you want if you don't know what's out there to begin with?
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Hiking With Chris
Sunday, 24 September 2006
After 9 am yoga class, I ate, did laundry, relaxed and got ready to go on a hike with Chris. He picked me up promptly at 1 pm, and we headed out to Aiea Heights Loop. We chatted about work, relationships, and I guess life in general. I felt comfortable to just jump right in to the deep topics and even pick the meat out of my teeth after we at Korean food for dinner, since we've known each other for so long. Strange how you don't see or talk to someone for about ten years, and then suddenly you can spend a few hours with together and it's almost as if all that time has not passed. Ultimately, we're still the same people we were when we were junior leaders and leaders at Summer Fun together...He's still the laid-back mountain biker I went out with twelve years ago, but we've both grown a bit with our travels, relationships, work, and life experiences. In any case, I'm glad that he came up to me at the wedding, and likewise, he thanked me for leaving the note on his time card. And, I think we lucked out because near the end of the hike, we caught a beautiful rainbow caressing the mountains over H-3. Chris commented that he thought we should split the pot of gold 60-40...How presumptuous of him, if I must say!
After 9 am yoga class, I ate, did laundry, relaxed and got ready to go on a hike with Chris. He picked me up promptly at 1 pm, and we headed out to Aiea Heights Loop. We chatted about work, relationships, and I guess life in general. I felt comfortable to just jump right in to the deep topics and even pick the meat out of my teeth after we at Korean food for dinner, since we've known each other for so long. Strange how you don't see or talk to someone for about ten years, and then suddenly you can spend a few hours with together and it's almost as if all that time has not passed. Ultimately, we're still the same people we were when we were junior leaders and leaders at Summer Fun together...He's still the laid-back mountain biker I went out with twelve years ago, but we've both grown a bit with our travels, relationships, work, and life experiences. In any case, I'm glad that he came up to me at the wedding, and likewise, he thanked me for leaving the note on his time card. And, I think we lucked out because near the end of the hike, we caught a beautiful rainbow caressing the mountains over H-3. Chris commented that he thought we should split the pot of gold 60-40...How presumptuous of him, if I must say!
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Still Not 100%
Tuesday, 19 September 2006
My voice is back to normal now, after 4 days of having laryngitis and sounding like a combination of a frog and a teenage boy going through puberty. I'm still having pounding sinus headaches, but decided to go to yoga for the first time in almost a week. Everytime I went down to do a sit up, my head just hurt like hell. Still not 100%, but I'm on my way.
My voice is back to normal now, after 4 days of having laryngitis and sounding like a combination of a frog and a teenage boy going through puberty. I'm still having pounding sinus headaches, but decided to go to yoga for the first time in almost a week. Everytime I went down to do a sit up, my head just hurt like hell. Still not 100%, but I'm on my way.
Monday, September 18, 2006
At the Beachhouse
Monday, 18 September 2006
Decided to take off of work today and stay another night at the beachhouse. It was so relaxing, and technically, well, I was still sick.
Suzette woke me up at 7 am yesterday to look at the horses that were right outside our window. We had stayed at one of three beachhouses Nina had rented, this one being on the ranch side. Somehow, she convinced me to walk on the beach, although I think I probably was still half-asleep. The sand felt so good on my sore bare feet!
The rest of Sunday afternoon was spent lying on the beach by myself for three hours! I fell into a deep sleep, as did Noe, the maid of honor, who was sleeping on the couch. The rest of Nina's relatives had taken the kids on pony rides at the ranch and to ride ATV's around Kualoa ranch. Noe and I went to play in the water later, and Nina's dad and brother started cooking again to feed the thirty or so family members that stayed overnight. The boys went fishing, we ate, and lounged around. We were already talking about how we'll have to come back and rent the beachhouse again. It's so nice.
When I got back into town, I shared leftover Hawaiian food with my dad and Bernie for lunch. And, although I was tired and my voice was still a little hoarse, I went to 8:15 yoga for the first time in nearly a week. I realigned my neck with a loud crack, and it felt sooooooo good!
Decided to take off of work today and stay another night at the beachhouse. It was so relaxing, and technically, well, I was still sick.
Suzette woke me up at 7 am yesterday to look at the horses that were right outside our window. We had stayed at one of three beachhouses Nina had rented, this one being on the ranch side. Somehow, she convinced me to walk on the beach, although I think I probably was still half-asleep. The sand felt so good on my sore bare feet!
The rest of Sunday afternoon was spent lying on the beach by myself for three hours! I fell into a deep sleep, as did Noe, the maid of honor, who was sleeping on the couch. The rest of Nina's relatives had taken the kids on pony rides at the ranch and to ride ATV's around Kualoa ranch. Noe and I went to play in the water later, and Nina's dad and brother started cooking again to feed the thirty or so family members that stayed overnight. The boys went fishing, we ate, and lounged around. We were already talking about how we'll have to come back and rent the beachhouse again. It's so nice.
When I got back into town, I shared leftover Hawaiian food with my dad and Bernie for lunch. And, although I was tired and my voice was still a little hoarse, I went to 8:15 yoga for the first time in nearly a week. I realigned my neck with a loud crack, and it felt sooooooo good!
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Nina's Wedding
Sunday, 17 September 2006
The day started at 7 am, when Sunny from the MAC counter came out to the beachhouse to do our makeup, and Nina's mom did our hair. We left at 11:30 am, a little behind schedule, with Joy driving us in her van. The ceremony went well, quicker than we had rehearsed, as Jon, the groom, was sweating bullets (Our high school chapel is beautiful with koa wood pews and kahili, but there is no air-condition.) Took pictures after we all signed the certificate, that which had white out on it because the wedding before had signed the wrong certificate!
Once we got back towards Kualoa side, we met the rest of the party to take pictures with the photographer, a college friend of Nina's. My feet hurt, and I was tired, which made me very critical of the photographer's style and pace. So, of course I took some pictures of my own as well.
Finally, we made it to the reception (just across the way from where we were) at 4:30 pm, just as my high school friends were leaving to get ready. Poor thing, they had missed the ceremony because they were there all day since 9 am helping to set up and decorate the reception!
Joy and Nina retied my dress several times in the night. After eating pupus and dinner, I felt like I couldn't breathe, and had to be retied again (only loosened this time!)...The food, which I still can't believe was prepared by Nina's father and brother (for over 400 guests!) was awesome! Everyone complimented the food and the artwork on our dresses and the groomsmen's shirts. Nina's other brother had handpainted sakura (cherry blossoms) on our dresses and airbrushed colorful koi fish on the guys' shirts.
Although I still had no voice, and my eyes became bloodshot by the middle of the night (I think the makeup and eyelash glue had gotten into my contacts.), it was great to see old friends from elementary school days and eat to my heart's content. This is one wedding where I've totally pigged out on raw fish, raw crab, opihi, squid lu'au, kulolo, haupia, kalua pig, and poi.
It took me awhile to clean and scrub the makeup off my face...Removing the eyelashes was weird, and my hair, well, that took some scrubbing too. Once I had my normal face back and showered, I crashed out! What a long evening (and I wasn't even the bride!)...It was such a wonderful event, put on by family and friends. Everything came together, and although the solar powered lights didn't work, and I missed Nina's hula, it was one of the loveliest weddings I have been to....a real celebration of family and friends.
The day started at 7 am, when Sunny from the MAC counter came out to the beachhouse to do our makeup, and Nina's mom did our hair. We left at 11:30 am, a little behind schedule, with Joy driving us in her van. The ceremony went well, quicker than we had rehearsed, as Jon, the groom, was sweating bullets (Our high school chapel is beautiful with koa wood pews and kahili, but there is no air-condition.) Took pictures after we all signed the certificate, that which had white out on it because the wedding before had signed the wrong certificate!
Once we got back towards Kualoa side, we met the rest of the party to take pictures with the photographer, a college friend of Nina's. My feet hurt, and I was tired, which made me very critical of the photographer's style and pace. So, of course I took some pictures of my own as well.
Finally, we made it to the reception (just across the way from where we were) at 4:30 pm, just as my high school friends were leaving to get ready. Poor thing, they had missed the ceremony because they were there all day since 9 am helping to set up and decorate the reception!
Joy and Nina retied my dress several times in the night. After eating pupus and dinner, I felt like I couldn't breathe, and had to be retied again (only loosened this time!)...The food, which I still can't believe was prepared by Nina's father and brother (for over 400 guests!) was awesome! Everyone complimented the food and the artwork on our dresses and the groomsmen's shirts. Nina's other brother had handpainted sakura (cherry blossoms) on our dresses and airbrushed colorful koi fish on the guys' shirts.
Although I still had no voice, and my eyes became bloodshot by the middle of the night (I think the makeup and eyelash glue had gotten into my contacts.), it was great to see old friends from elementary school days and eat to my heart's content. This is one wedding where I've totally pigged out on raw fish, raw crab, opihi, squid lu'au, kulolo, haupia, kalua pig, and poi.
It took me awhile to clean and scrub the makeup off my face...Removing the eyelashes was weird, and my hair, well, that took some scrubbing too. Once I had my normal face back and showered, I crashed out! What a long evening (and I wasn't even the bride!)...It was such a wonderful event, put on by family and friends. Everything came together, and although the solar powered lights didn't work, and I missed Nina's hula, it was one of the loveliest weddings I have been to....a real celebration of family and friends.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Finally....At the Beachhouse!
Friday, 15 September 2006
So, after Joy picked me up at home, we headed out on the road, first to pick up our Ni'ihau shell bracelets, then to pick up bamboo fishing poles at McCully Bike. We found a Papa John's to pick up six large pizzas. Then, on the road again to Kualoa. Down a "private road" where the owner yelled at us, we finally made it to the last beachhouse before the long strip of beach. We are staying in a huge house, Ka Lae Hale, with a big living room and two bedrooms, and a wrap-around lanai. We opened up the sliding glass doors so that you could hear the surf pounding the shores, the salt air coming in.
There are also two cottages adjacent on the property. Each are one bedrooms with full kitchens and bathrooms. I hear the daytime views are beautiful. I think Jon, Nina's husband-to-be, has already set up his fishing poles.
After scarfing down six slices of pizza and one penicillin, I'm ready to hit the sack. In fact, we all are. Nina's stressing out and is still working on her program. In fact, she's not here right now. She went back home and is running down her list of things to do. The bridesmaids and the Best Man are just hanging out. Joy is practicing hula, the guys are fishing, and little Kaitlyn is saying hello and bowing to everyone. Our feather leis we're wearing tomorrow are so beautiful. I can't wait to see the whole ensemble! There definitely will be lots of photos taken!
I've given up on conversing for the evening, because it's getting too frustrating. No one can understand what I'm saying! So, that's it for now. Until tomorrow! Wish us luck! Goodnight! We have to be up at 7 am for hair and makeup!
So, after Joy picked me up at home, we headed out on the road, first to pick up our Ni'ihau shell bracelets, then to pick up bamboo fishing poles at McCully Bike. We found a Papa John's to pick up six large pizzas. Then, on the road again to Kualoa. Down a "private road" where the owner yelled at us, we finally made it to the last beachhouse before the long strip of beach. We are staying in a huge house, Ka Lae Hale, with a big living room and two bedrooms, and a wrap-around lanai. We opened up the sliding glass doors so that you could hear the surf pounding the shores, the salt air coming in.
There are also two cottages adjacent on the property. Each are one bedrooms with full kitchens and bathrooms. I hear the daytime views are beautiful. I think Jon, Nina's husband-to-be, has already set up his fishing poles.
After scarfing down six slices of pizza and one penicillin, I'm ready to hit the sack. In fact, we all are. Nina's stressing out and is still working on her program. In fact, she's not here right now. She went back home and is running down her list of things to do. The bridesmaids and the Best Man are just hanging out. Joy is practicing hula, the guys are fishing, and little Kaitlyn is saying hello and bowing to everyone. Our feather leis we're wearing tomorrow are so beautiful. I can't wait to see the whole ensemble! There definitely will be lots of photos taken!
I've given up on conversing for the evening, because it's getting too frustrating. No one can understand what I'm saying! So, that's it for now. Until tomorrow! Wish us luck! Goodnight! We have to be up at 7 am for hair and makeup!
Nina's Wedding Is Tomorrow!
Friday, 15 September 2006
Just waiting for my friend Joy to pick me up for the drive out to the beach house near Kualoa. After a week of being sick, not going to yoga for a couple of days, and then going one night to sweat out all of my toxins and drain my nose (while standing in the farthest corner of the yoga studio so as not to get anyone sick or gross anyone out), I lost my voice yesterday and today. Last night was the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner for Nina's wedding. I pigged out at the Chinese buffet after our "practice" walk down the aisle. Then headed out with the gals to Mai Tai Bar to hang out, and let Jesus Salud take our picture (only, we didn't know it was the famous boxer until after he had taken our picture...Then, we asked him to be in the next picture.)
Teaching today with no voice was quite interesting. The kindergartners whispered the sounds along with me, mimicking my voice, even though I told them they could speak up. One kindergartner, after asking what happened to me, told me that maybe there was a frog in my throat. One of my second graders asked me if I had gone to the doctor yet and to drink a lot of water so I could get my "broken" voice back.
I managed to sneak out this morning to go to the doctor and after almost leaving before I could be seen by the doctor herself, she rushed in to take a throat culture (Someone had strep throat in our school so I just thought I'd check.) and give me penicillin and Zyrtec. Fed my dad lunch, and he quickly scooted me out the door as I wasn't wearing a mask, and I can't get him sick.
So, now I wait with my bag packed, ready for the long drive out to Kualoa. We'll head to the church with our celery green dresses that Nina's mom made (and her tatoo artist brother airbrushed sakura flowers on) at 10:30 am tomorrow. Ceremony is at 12:30 pm at our alma mater, Kamehameha Schools. Then, off to the lu'au reception at Kualoa Ranch for dinner.
Should be a long, hot day. But, it'll be fun...And, Nina promised me that she won't make me make a speech or sing.
Just waiting for my friend Joy to pick me up for the drive out to the beach house near Kualoa. After a week of being sick, not going to yoga for a couple of days, and then going one night to sweat out all of my toxins and drain my nose (while standing in the farthest corner of the yoga studio so as not to get anyone sick or gross anyone out), I lost my voice yesterday and today. Last night was the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner for Nina's wedding. I pigged out at the Chinese buffet after our "practice" walk down the aisle. Then headed out with the gals to Mai Tai Bar to hang out, and let Jesus Salud take our picture (only, we didn't know it was the famous boxer until after he had taken our picture...Then, we asked him to be in the next picture.)
Teaching today with no voice was quite interesting. The kindergartners whispered the sounds along with me, mimicking my voice, even though I told them they could speak up. One kindergartner, after asking what happened to me, told me that maybe there was a frog in my throat. One of my second graders asked me if I had gone to the doctor yet and to drink a lot of water so I could get my "broken" voice back.
I managed to sneak out this morning to go to the doctor and after almost leaving before I could be seen by the doctor herself, she rushed in to take a throat culture (Someone had strep throat in our school so I just thought I'd check.) and give me penicillin and Zyrtec. Fed my dad lunch, and he quickly scooted me out the door as I wasn't wearing a mask, and I can't get him sick.
So, now I wait with my bag packed, ready for the long drive out to Kualoa. We'll head to the church with our celery green dresses that Nina's mom made (and her tatoo artist brother airbrushed sakura flowers on) at 10:30 am tomorrow. Ceremony is at 12:30 pm at our alma mater, Kamehameha Schools. Then, off to the lu'au reception at Kualoa Ranch for dinner.
Should be a long, hot day. But, it'll be fun...And, Nina promised me that she won't make me make a speech or sing.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Walk, Makeup, Massage, and Our Own "Project Runway"
Saturday, 9 September 2006
After an early morning full of exercise, I crashed out on the couch in front of the TV, while gorging on food. My morning started at 6:40 am when I left to go to yoga, only to find that my brother's truck was blocking me in. A cell phone call didn't reach him (as I knew he's such a heavy sleeper anyway), so I figured I had better start walking. I started my speed walk down the hill and made it in time for class. Unfortunately, I had started sweating before I even started class! But, it was a good class, even though I had to take my glasses on and off to focus and see myself in the mirror (my contacts are still on order).
Called Jay after class, and he laughed that I had to walk down the hill, but said, "Hey, good exercise, huh?!" Bastard. I said, "Well, you can pick me up now." And he said he would but he would have to leave work to do that. Geez. Okay, guess I better prepare myself for the walk up the hill, which is not so bad, but much harder after a yoga workout.
This afternoon, I met Nina, Noe, and Joy at Kahala Mall to get our makeup matched at the MAC counter. The wedding is a week from today, so we're getting the fun girly prep stuff done. Ran into my friend Jennifer there, and she had fun checking out our dresses and makeup as well. Then, we headed off to buy pupus for our private massage soiree at their friend's day spa in Hawai'i Kai. After the business closed to the public, we set up our food (and I was more than eager to let everyone else get their massages first so that I could eat!). We had fun talking and getting to know each other, swapping stories about my ex, selling my masseuse on Bikram yoga, and getting a relaxing neck, shoulder, and back massage. We had a fashion show with our bridesmaid dresses and helped each other tie the dress together. Nina's mom copied an idea of a dress, and it turned out really nice. Her brother still has to add a final touch of airbrush art to it, but it's a very versatile, cute style which we can wear it again and still carry our own "look" in it.
We all left around 10:30 pm. After eating one too many of Lara's chocolate peanut butter crunch dessert, I decided to just head home for the night rather than hitting the dance club with Emily and friends. Besides, I'm too relaxed to get all dressed up again!
After an early morning full of exercise, I crashed out on the couch in front of the TV, while gorging on food. My morning started at 6:40 am when I left to go to yoga, only to find that my brother's truck was blocking me in. A cell phone call didn't reach him (as I knew he's such a heavy sleeper anyway), so I figured I had better start walking. I started my speed walk down the hill and made it in time for class. Unfortunately, I had started sweating before I even started class! But, it was a good class, even though I had to take my glasses on and off to focus and see myself in the mirror (my contacts are still on order).
Called Jay after class, and he laughed that I had to walk down the hill, but said, "Hey, good exercise, huh?!" Bastard. I said, "Well, you can pick me up now." And he said he would but he would have to leave work to do that. Geez. Okay, guess I better prepare myself for the walk up the hill, which is not so bad, but much harder after a yoga workout.
This afternoon, I met Nina, Noe, and Joy at Kahala Mall to get our makeup matched at the MAC counter. The wedding is a week from today, so we're getting the fun girly prep stuff done. Ran into my friend Jennifer there, and she had fun checking out our dresses and makeup as well. Then, we headed off to buy pupus for our private massage soiree at their friend's day spa in Hawai'i Kai. After the business closed to the public, we set up our food (and I was more than eager to let everyone else get their massages first so that I could eat!). We had fun talking and getting to know each other, swapping stories about my ex, selling my masseuse on Bikram yoga, and getting a relaxing neck, shoulder, and back massage. We had a fashion show with our bridesmaid dresses and helped each other tie the dress together. Nina's mom copied an idea of a dress, and it turned out really nice. Her brother still has to add a final touch of airbrush art to it, but it's a very versatile, cute style which we can wear it again and still carry our own "look" in it.
We all left around 10:30 pm. After eating one too many of Lara's chocolate peanut butter crunch dessert, I decided to just head home for the night rather than hitting the dance club with Emily and friends. Besides, I'm too relaxed to get all dressed up again!
Friday, September 08, 2006
Of Course You Didn't Do It
Friday, 8 September 2006
After a teacher started getting on my nerves today, I headed to Dad's an hour late, and found out that neither Jay nor he had eaten yet. Dad wanted to use a gift certificate to order Chinese food. So, we ordered food, and I went to pick it up. We didn't eat lunch until almost 3 pm (and FYI, I get a bit grouchy on an empty stomach). Once my blood sugar level was up, Jay took off, and I took Dad to Costco so that I could get new contact lenses. Another teacher called me on my cell phone to talk school stuff, and I thought, geez isn't it the weekend already?! Sometimes, it's nice to remind yourself that it's FRIDAY! (Went to yoga tonight to let off some steam....(=...)
I was sweating again by the time I loaded Dad in the van (and I thought August was our hottest month here....September's been really humid!), then bathed him with my mask again. Even though my sore throat is gone, I still cannot risk getting him sick when his respiratory health is poor. We talked about how Bernie is trying to get the breathing device that helps clear mucus, but we're not sure if he has enough strength to blow air out into it effectively. We talked about their getaway this weekend to stay in a hotel in Waikiki (donated by a friend) and to see Cirque Hawai'i. Dad asked whether I was disappointed that I couldn't tutor in the afternoons, when I was offered the opportunity to do so. He asked if money was an issue or if caregiving was getting to be too much. Just the money. I don't mind caregiving. Jay and I will get respite Monday and Tuesday as Bernie will be taking those days off from work.
As I was drying Dad off, I pulled him forward to get his back, and when I laid him back against the chair, I heard a "Bhoot!".
Me: "Gross, Dad!"
Dad: "I didn't do it. It was the chair."
Me: "Yeah, right....Geez, and my head was down there!!"
Dad: "What? Try smell it. I bet you $100 I didn't do it."
Me: "Yeah, how am I supposed to know. I have a mask on. Of course I can't tell. I can't smell anything! Good story, Dad. Good one."
He is still holding on to his $100 bet.
After a teacher started getting on my nerves today, I headed to Dad's an hour late, and found out that neither Jay nor he had eaten yet. Dad wanted to use a gift certificate to order Chinese food. So, we ordered food, and I went to pick it up. We didn't eat lunch until almost 3 pm (and FYI, I get a bit grouchy on an empty stomach). Once my blood sugar level was up, Jay took off, and I took Dad to Costco so that I could get new contact lenses. Another teacher called me on my cell phone to talk school stuff, and I thought, geez isn't it the weekend already?! Sometimes, it's nice to remind yourself that it's FRIDAY! (Went to yoga tonight to let off some steam....(=...)
I was sweating again by the time I loaded Dad in the van (and I thought August was our hottest month here....September's been really humid!), then bathed him with my mask again. Even though my sore throat is gone, I still cannot risk getting him sick when his respiratory health is poor. We talked about how Bernie is trying to get the breathing device that helps clear mucus, but we're not sure if he has enough strength to blow air out into it effectively. We talked about their getaway this weekend to stay in a hotel in Waikiki (donated by a friend) and to see Cirque Hawai'i. Dad asked whether I was disappointed that I couldn't tutor in the afternoons, when I was offered the opportunity to do so. He asked if money was an issue or if caregiving was getting to be too much. Just the money. I don't mind caregiving. Jay and I will get respite Monday and Tuesday as Bernie will be taking those days off from work.
As I was drying Dad off, I pulled him forward to get his back, and when I laid him back against the chair, I heard a "Bhoot!".
Me: "Gross, Dad!"
Dad: "I didn't do it. It was the chair."
Me: "Yeah, right....Geez, and my head was down there!!"
Dad: "What? Try smell it. I bet you $100 I didn't do it."
Me: "Yeah, how am I supposed to know. I have a mask on. Of course I can't tell. I can't smell anything! Good story, Dad. Good one."
He is still holding on to his $100 bet.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Hey, I Think There's Something On Your Nose!?
Thursday, 7 September 2006
After work, fed Dad lunch and then took him to Queen's Hospital. Donning my mask, you might not have been able to tell which one the admitting patient was, but when we rolled up to the valet (I had no idea hospitals had valet parking...shows you how often I go to the hospital) and then to the Speech Therapist's office, they recognized that I must have a cold. Dad said I didn't have to wear the mask while I was driving, but I figured if we were breathing the same air, I might as well use it, even if I did feel like a SARS patient.
Bernice met us there, and we were all trained on how to use Dad's new communication devices....a.k.a. brand new Inspiron Dell notebook with silver dots on the nose. Yes, my father has to put a silver dot on his nose, and then his nose becomes the mouse. Several neck spasms later, he is learning how to navigate the keyboard and computer using his nose. With this device, he will be able to surf the internet, write documents, and check email. The speech therapist told us that some patients with ALS and cerebral palsy have written their Master's Thesis and given speeches with devices like this. I told Dad he better watch out or I'll color the dot red. And we joked about how often we'll have to exfoliate and clean his face with astringent as the dot doesn't stick well to oily, greasy skin.
After loading our new devices in the car (we got a new rolling table too - the kind that you have in hospital rooms), along with Dad and the wheelchair, I was more than breaking a sweat. But, all in a hard day's work. Off to the florist's we went to buy some flowers for my stepmom, and when we got home, I had to search for his wedding band to see exactly what anniversary this was. After looking at the inscription, I discovered that today makes it their 4th wedding anniversary. I wrote the message on the card for Dad, set the roses in the kitchen, just in time for Bernie to come home from work early (so I didn't need to bathe Dad.).
Since I skipped yoga yesterday, I wanted to try and go tonight. I put myself in the back row to "take it easy" but found myself challenging myself through the entire 90 minutes, as my body seemed fine. It was a great class, and our teacher Fiona reminded us that it's good to come at the start of a cold. Glad I didn't miss it. Caught up on the phone with some friends and did some work before I turned in for the evening.
After work, fed Dad lunch and then took him to Queen's Hospital. Donning my mask, you might not have been able to tell which one the admitting patient was, but when we rolled up to the valet (I had no idea hospitals had valet parking...shows you how often I go to the hospital) and then to the Speech Therapist's office, they recognized that I must have a cold. Dad said I didn't have to wear the mask while I was driving, but I figured if we were breathing the same air, I might as well use it, even if I did feel like a SARS patient.
Bernice met us there, and we were all trained on how to use Dad's new communication devices....a.k.a. brand new Inspiron Dell notebook with silver dots on the nose. Yes, my father has to put a silver dot on his nose, and then his nose becomes the mouse. Several neck spasms later, he is learning how to navigate the keyboard and computer using his nose. With this device, he will be able to surf the internet, write documents, and check email. The speech therapist told us that some patients with ALS and cerebral palsy have written their Master's Thesis and given speeches with devices like this. I told Dad he better watch out or I'll color the dot red. And we joked about how often we'll have to exfoliate and clean his face with astringent as the dot doesn't stick well to oily, greasy skin.
After loading our new devices in the car (we got a new rolling table too - the kind that you have in hospital rooms), along with Dad and the wheelchair, I was more than breaking a sweat. But, all in a hard day's work. Off to the florist's we went to buy some flowers for my stepmom, and when we got home, I had to search for his wedding band to see exactly what anniversary this was. After looking at the inscription, I discovered that today makes it their 4th wedding anniversary. I wrote the message on the card for Dad, set the roses in the kitchen, just in time for Bernie to come home from work early (so I didn't need to bathe Dad.).
Since I skipped yoga yesterday, I wanted to try and go tonight. I put myself in the back row to "take it easy" but found myself challenging myself through the entire 90 minutes, as my body seemed fine. It was a great class, and our teacher Fiona reminded us that it's good to come at the start of a cold. Glad I didn't miss it. Caught up on the phone with some friends and did some work before I turned in for the evening.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
I'm SICK!
Wednesday, 6 September 2006
Now I know why I have been so tired lately and feeling funky. This morning, I woke up with an extremely SORE THROAT! Looks like I've been battling an illness. And, to make matters worse, my teaching partner called in sick this morning! Looks like there is something going around.
So, I taught all of my kids today on my own, which wasn't so bad, but hard on the throat. I drank my Airborne all day long. Hopefully, I'll just get laryngitis, but I don't want the whole congestion thing. We'll have to wait and see.
This afternoon, Jay picked up Korean food, and I got pho for myself (the soup sounded and felt good on my throat). Cousin Mike, Susan, and the boys came over to eat lunch with us. Mike and Susan are visiting from Seattle to visit the boys. Roman turns 5 tomorrow. Uncle Gary brought cocoa puffs over, and we had fun laughing at the boys, entertaining them with the water hose, and catching up under the heat of the tent outside.
I waited for Aunty Sharon to come over to relieve me. She brought dinner for dad tonight. Gotta go home and get some zzzzz's. Need to kick this cold. I have a busy next couple of weeks.
Now I know why I have been so tired lately and feeling funky. This morning, I woke up with an extremely SORE THROAT! Looks like I've been battling an illness. And, to make matters worse, my teaching partner called in sick this morning! Looks like there is something going around.
So, I taught all of my kids today on my own, which wasn't so bad, but hard on the throat. I drank my Airborne all day long. Hopefully, I'll just get laryngitis, but I don't want the whole congestion thing. We'll have to wait and see.
This afternoon, Jay picked up Korean food, and I got pho for myself (the soup sounded and felt good on my throat). Cousin Mike, Susan, and the boys came over to eat lunch with us. Mike and Susan are visiting from Seattle to visit the boys. Roman turns 5 tomorrow. Uncle Gary brought cocoa puffs over, and we had fun laughing at the boys, entertaining them with the water hose, and catching up under the heat of the tent outside.
I waited for Aunty Sharon to come over to relieve me. She brought dinner for dad tonight. Gotta go home and get some zzzzz's. Need to kick this cold. I have a busy next couple of weeks.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Why So Tired?!
Tuesday, 5 September 2006
After staying to long at school this morning to get my sub plans done and room organized, I got to my workshop half an hour late (not to mention I forgot where the workshop was located so I didn't allow time for driving in traffic). But, not to worry. It was a good, informative workshop on our new data and database. Good to see ESLL colleagues too, and as one colleague joked, "Will you take your student back?" referring to one of my little guys who transferred to her school this year. Yes, he is a handful, but will grow on you, I told her.
Went to Dad's in the afternoon to take over for Jay. Bathed dad, and went to 6:30 pm yoga. I was horrible! As soon as I started the first breathing exercise, my throat really hurt and I had a hard time. I knew it was going to be a tough class. My balance was off, and I think I tweaked my right hamstring pushing too hard. (and I don't want to injure that, as it took me more than 4 months to heal my left hamstring!). I was exhausted, and after going to sleep at 8:45 pm last night, I was wondering what was up with my body?! Ate and went to sleep as soon as I could!
After staying to long at school this morning to get my sub plans done and room organized, I got to my workshop half an hour late (not to mention I forgot where the workshop was located so I didn't allow time for driving in traffic). But, not to worry. It was a good, informative workshop on our new data and database. Good to see ESLL colleagues too, and as one colleague joked, "Will you take your student back?" referring to one of my little guys who transferred to her school this year. Yes, he is a handful, but will grow on you, I told her.
Went to Dad's in the afternoon to take over for Jay. Bathed dad, and went to 6:30 pm yoga. I was horrible! As soon as I started the first breathing exercise, my throat really hurt and I had a hard time. I knew it was going to be a tough class. My balance was off, and I think I tweaked my right hamstring pushing too hard. (and I don't want to injure that, as it took me more than 4 months to heal my left hamstring!). I was exhausted, and after going to sleep at 8:45 pm last night, I was wondering what was up with my body?! Ate and went to sleep as soon as I could!
Labor Day Weekend
Friday, 1 September 2006
First day of no yoga after 31 days...thought I'd take a break! So, I headed out with the gals from work to Gordon Biersch for some dinner and cocktails. We gabbed and didn't talk about teaching too much. Talked more about going out next time!
Saturday, 2 September 2006
Back to my yoga weekend regimen, I went to 7 am yoga, then did some school shopping and clothes shopping. After I got my "necessities" I parked my truck at Miya's house, and walked over to Kapi'olani Park to meet Joel at the Okinawan Festival. We ate food, watched some cool traditional dancing and taiko drumming performances, and watched Traci Toguchi sing, promoting her debut album, "Feel the Breeze" (I called my cousin Steph in Seattle to let her know we ran into her good friend and were watching her perform). Joel's family came, and I later ran into Chris and her friends and Melissa and her family. For the rest of the evening, we sat in the passing showers and danced the night away in the Bon Dance portion of the event. Joel's Young Okinawan Club did a performance and provided music for some of the dance. Melissa, Quinn, Mariko, Joel, Joel's mom, and I danced and had a blast trying to follow along! Joel walked me back to my car at 10 pm, and I dropped him off so that he could help pack up and get ready for tomorrow!
Sunday, 3 September 2006
Went to 9 am yoga today as I was exhausted, and then rested and ran some errands, did a little work on school stuff at Starbuck's, etc. Jay and I went to check out sales at CompUSA, but didn't buy anything. That night, I headed out with the gals again (Kelly, Emily, Michelle, Amanda, Sarah, and their friends) to Waikiki. We all met at the end of Kalakaua near the zoo and walked to Fashion 45 in our black and white outfits for the Black and White party. We had fun dancing and this promoter guy said he'd put me on the guest list for next time. We left after a few hours, and went to get a bite to eat. Bad move! Alcohol and fast food in one night...two toxins I rarely do, and at 3 in the morning, not a good move. I knew I would regret eating the chicken sandwich and french fries later...
Monday, 4 September 2006
Before I left for yoga this morning, I turned on the TV to see the MDA Telethon, and I was surprised to see my dad's story from last year on! Of course I got all teary-eyed. After 9 am yoga, I headed home to rest and relax. Plus I had to get my sub plans done for tomorrow since I have a workshop to go to, and haven't done any school work this weekend. I had planned on going to the MDA Telethon to help out all day, but didn't get there until 2 pm. Helped in the back, writing down pledges for the commentators to read on TV, and eating all the snacks around us, donuts, pizza, chips, etc. Still felt crappy from the fast food last night, so knew I shouldn't overindulge. My stepmom said that Dad used the BiPap machine last night for a few hours as he really was having trouble breathing in the middle of the night. He realizes now that he may need it when he sleeps (FINALLY!). He also has been gagging and coughing a lot more this weekend, so it is important that someone be with him at all times, as he might not necessarily say that he needs water or something. Watching his movements and looking at him are important when he's trying to cough as it's not always audible.
Watched as my stepmom answered phones for the client phone bank for a couple hours, and talked with Lisa, who has bulbar onset ALS. A former 39 year old teacher, Lisa has slurred speech, and has to mash up all her food because her swallowing muscles have weakened so much. She says she misses eating shrimp scampi and potato chips most. The things she usually eats now include mashed potatoes and Jamba Juice. It was sad to see some of our friends who passed away this year from ALS, but also good to see that there was so much coverage on ALS. For some reason, this year's telethon, both nationally and locally, seemed to have many stories on ALS patients, featuring individual stories to support groups, to national efforts to raise money for research. Unfortunately it seems many new patients have Bulbar onset, which affects the speech first, and can degenerate those individuals faster than limb onset (which my dad has), as it hits the respiratory muscles quicker. It was good to see our friends and to see that Hawai'i raised over $350,000 this year. Thanks for all of your support! Hope you tuned in to the telethon!
First day of no yoga after 31 days...thought I'd take a break! So, I headed out with the gals from work to Gordon Biersch for some dinner and cocktails. We gabbed and didn't talk about teaching too much. Talked more about going out next time!
Saturday, 2 September 2006
Back to my yoga weekend regimen, I went to 7 am yoga, then did some school shopping and clothes shopping. After I got my "necessities" I parked my truck at Miya's house, and walked over to Kapi'olani Park to meet Joel at the Okinawan Festival. We ate food, watched some cool traditional dancing and taiko drumming performances, and watched Traci Toguchi sing, promoting her debut album, "Feel the Breeze" (I called my cousin Steph in Seattle to let her know we ran into her good friend and were watching her perform). Joel's family came, and I later ran into Chris and her friends and Melissa and her family. For the rest of the evening, we sat in the passing showers and danced the night away in the Bon Dance portion of the event. Joel's Young Okinawan Club did a performance and provided music for some of the dance. Melissa, Quinn, Mariko, Joel, Joel's mom, and I danced and had a blast trying to follow along! Joel walked me back to my car at 10 pm, and I dropped him off so that he could help pack up and get ready for tomorrow!
Sunday, 3 September 2006
Went to 9 am yoga today as I was exhausted, and then rested and ran some errands, did a little work on school stuff at Starbuck's, etc. Jay and I went to check out sales at CompUSA, but didn't buy anything. That night, I headed out with the gals again (Kelly, Emily, Michelle, Amanda, Sarah, and their friends) to Waikiki. We all met at the end of Kalakaua near the zoo and walked to Fashion 45 in our black and white outfits for the Black and White party. We had fun dancing and this promoter guy said he'd put me on the guest list for next time. We left after a few hours, and went to get a bite to eat. Bad move! Alcohol and fast food in one night...two toxins I rarely do, and at 3 in the morning, not a good move. I knew I would regret eating the chicken sandwich and french fries later...
Monday, 4 September 2006
Before I left for yoga this morning, I turned on the TV to see the MDA Telethon, and I was surprised to see my dad's story from last year on! Of course I got all teary-eyed. After 9 am yoga, I headed home to rest and relax. Plus I had to get my sub plans done for tomorrow since I have a workshop to go to, and haven't done any school work this weekend. I had planned on going to the MDA Telethon to help out all day, but didn't get there until 2 pm. Helped in the back, writing down pledges for the commentators to read on TV, and eating all the snacks around us, donuts, pizza, chips, etc. Still felt crappy from the fast food last night, so knew I shouldn't overindulge. My stepmom said that Dad used the BiPap machine last night for a few hours as he really was having trouble breathing in the middle of the night. He realizes now that he may need it when he sleeps (FINALLY!). He also has been gagging and coughing a lot more this weekend, so it is important that someone be with him at all times, as he might not necessarily say that he needs water or something. Watching his movements and looking at him are important when he's trying to cough as it's not always audible.
Watched as my stepmom answered phones for the client phone bank for a couple hours, and talked with Lisa, who has bulbar onset ALS. A former 39 year old teacher, Lisa has slurred speech, and has to mash up all her food because her swallowing muscles have weakened so much. She says she misses eating shrimp scampi and potato chips most. The things she usually eats now include mashed potatoes and Jamba Juice. It was sad to see some of our friends who passed away this year from ALS, but also good to see that there was so much coverage on ALS. For some reason, this year's telethon, both nationally and locally, seemed to have many stories on ALS patients, featuring individual stories to support groups, to national efforts to raise money for research. Unfortunately it seems many new patients have Bulbar onset, which affects the speech first, and can degenerate those individuals faster than limb onset (which my dad has), as it hits the respiratory muscles quicker. It was good to see our friends and to see that Hawai'i raised over $350,000 this year. Thanks for all of your support! Hope you tuned in to the telethon!
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