I'm doing my 4th load of laundry now and I've finished doing the house chores that I'd planned to do. Hmmm, I've still got most of the day ahead of me. Julia, one of my lifegroup (bible study group) girls is in Nelson at the mo. YAY! I'm excited. Will be hanging out with her this afternoon. We've decided to go to Rabbit Island.
I love Nelson. It's so beautiful. Dunedin just doesn't compare. Although, Dunedin does have a great student life :)
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Friday, December 29, 2006
working
The restaurant has been very busy so I've been busy. It was flat out today. I'm tired. Day off tomorrow though. yay :) Hmmm, how I long to do laundry. I'm not having much of a social life but that's ok. Been hanging out with mum. Catchin up - good times.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
First day on the job
Michelle (our Richmond manager) is sick at the moment so I'm working instead of her. She's been working for mum for about a year and has improved tremendously over this period. Work was good today. I enjoyed it and the time went by fairly quickly. I suspect that working for my mum for the next few weeks will bring the perfectionist out of me again. It's hard working in a family business because it's your FAMILY'S business. The floor could be cleaner, you notice any watermarks on the cutlery etc etc. I do my best to appreciate her employees and give them constructive critisms (only when I think it's completely necessary).
I've changed so much since being away from home these past 5 years though. I use to be VERY tidy. Otago Uni [especially flatmates (=room mates for my north american friends)] has definitely helped me to be laid back. I learnt to just let things go. For example, I use to iron on a weekly basis. most recently? I've only used an iron once in the last month or two! huge difference.
BUUUT, in saying that, when I'm at home, I do something that I only occasionally do in Dunedin. I clean up after other people. I have a different mentality here than at Uni. At uni, I'll tidy up a little every now and then and will do the odd dish that's left lying around. People can rely on my to do my chores but I certainly wouldn't do other people's. However, when I'm back at home, I'll just do whatever needs to be done! Hmmm, I'm not sure what the exact reason for it is.
on a completely different topic; I was chatting to a dear friend of mine from high school. He's a DJ and is fairly big (world famous in NZ amongst the alternative crowd at least). I've known him since my early teenage days. Heck! It's been nearly a decade! Wow, how time flys. I told him about my blog and said that I would talk about him and put a link to his profile on Myspace. So... Tom a.k.a. COSM He's got lots of gigs coming up in the next month. "World famous in NZ" is an understatement for sure. cos he just got back from a tour around Oz and was in South American not too long ago. I gotta warn you all though that he's not exactly squeeky clean ... try not to be too shocked. He's a great guy. No matter how hip, pyschodalic and outrageous he becomes, he'll always be "Bolie" (his nickname from school) to me.
I've changed so much since being away from home these past 5 years though. I use to be VERY tidy. Otago Uni [especially flatmates (=room mates for my north american friends)] has definitely helped me to be laid back. I learnt to just let things go. For example, I use to iron on a weekly basis. most recently? I've only used an iron once in the last month or two! huge difference.
BUUUT, in saying that, when I'm at home, I do something that I only occasionally do in Dunedin. I clean up after other people. I have a different mentality here than at Uni. At uni, I'll tidy up a little every now and then and will do the odd dish that's left lying around. People can rely on my to do my chores but I certainly wouldn't do other people's. However, when I'm back at home, I'll just do whatever needs to be done! Hmmm, I'm not sure what the exact reason for it is.
on a completely different topic; I was chatting to a dear friend of mine from high school. He's a DJ and is fairly big (world famous in NZ amongst the alternative crowd at least). I've known him since my early teenage days. Heck! It's been nearly a decade! Wow, how time flys. I told him about my blog and said that I would talk about him and put a link to his profile on Myspace. So... Tom a.k.a. COSM He's got lots of gigs coming up in the next month. "World famous in NZ" is an understatement for sure. cos he just got back from a tour around Oz and was in South American not too long ago. I gotta warn you all though that he's not exactly squeeky clean ... try not to be too shocked. He's a great guy. No matter how hip, pyschodalic and outrageous he becomes, he'll always be "Bolie" (his nickname from school) to me.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Boxing Day
I'm so over shopping! Retail therapy can be so unnecessary and wasteful especially when you really don't NEED anything. I wasn't at all tempted to check out the Boxing Day sale (it's similar to the post-thanksgiving sale except a lot less crowded).
Instead, we had another big gathering for lunch before all my out-of-town relatives went back to Christchurch. I then caught up with a very good friend of mine who's leaving Nelson tomorrow morning.
Hmmm... I've nothing else to say. My extra long Christmas blog has worn me out.
Instead, we had another big gathering for lunch before all my out-of-town relatives went back to Christchurch. I then caught up with a very good friend of mine who's leaving Nelson tomorrow morning.
Hmmm... I've nothing else to say. My extra long Christmas blog has worn me out.
Merry Christmas Everyone!
Christmas came by so fast for me this year. Was I prepared? Hmmm, not really. Usually it is Danny and I who go grocery shopping for Christmas day. And it’s usually Kate (now Danny’s ex) and I that set up the Christmas tree and decorate it.
But this year, Danny and I had been traveling before Christmas. I went to Australia and American while Danny went to Japan, China and Hong Kong. So we were both quite busy and Christmas kinda took us by surprise. We drove from Christchurch to Nelson (5.5hr drive) on Christmas eve. By the time we got in, the supermarket in Richmond was closed.
But we decided that Christmas would still be ok without a turkey and all the other goodies that come with the occasion. After all, we still had each other. When we got to our house in Richmond, the house was empty but there was a Christmas tree :) Mum had put the tree up with her “granddaughter” (a family friend’s daughter). Once mum got home that night (she was at a wedding), we catch up with her and told her about our fun adventures overseas.
On Christmas morning, 3 of our employees from Blenheim (1.5hr drive away) came over to our place bearing gifts. They had cooked us a turkey and also had a Christmas hamper for us. It contained lots of Christmas treats. All we were missing now was Christmas Crackers. Well… I found a box of 12 Christmas Crackers hidden in the pantry that we had left over from a previous Christmas.
Our Richmond manager and her boyfriend joined us a bit later too. We all had lunch together. We didn’t have a shortage of food (one of the joys of being in the hospitality industries). I looked over at one of our chefs who was carving the turkey and said “wow, it’s beautiful. Looks almost like you’re a professional!” ;)
My family taught them the tradition of popping Christmas crackers together around the table. There’s an art to it, trust me. We had so much fun and everyone got into the spirit of it all. One of the boys had clip-on earrings in his cracker which we convinced him to wear. I told him he looked pretty. His girlfriend agreed.
It was great to spend time with them. I think that the most fantastic part of it was that they chose to spend time with us on such a day as Christmas. Yes… feel the love. Hehehe. Jack (my brother) managed to get into Richmond in time to hang out with us before we started clearing away the lunch. So all was well.
When they were preparing to leave, we were joined by a large group of family friends. They just came over to spend the later part of the afternoon with us.
In the early part of the evening, my family had time to relax and do our own individual things like talking to friends on the phone and napping. It was good to recharge before socializing with lots of people all over again.
We went over to a family friend’s for Christmas dinner at about 8:30. Since lunch on Christmas day is usually so big, they knew that no one would be hungry til quite late. Many members of my extended family were also there; a grandma, 2 uncles, 3 aunts and lots of cousins.
The family on the back porch
The Poppy Thai Restaurant crew (plus Tiger our cat) in the front yard
My Grandma and I just before xmas dinner
So Christmas was filled with food, family, friends and fun. At the end of the day, I felt a little unfufilled though. I didn’t feel that Jesus had been honored by the day that was coming to its end. The main reason for Christmas was lost by all (or most) of those whom I had spent the day with. What was also sad was that I was partly guilty of ignoring the reason too. I think that the fundamental reason for Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus; a baby who was born approx 2000 years ago to a virgin girl. A baby who would later grow to be a sinless man and save the world. So simple, yet so often neglected. I felt such better (and satisfied) after spending some time with God in prayer and honoring Him. As for my family and friends; I’ll continue to pray for them.
But this year, Danny and I had been traveling before Christmas. I went to Australia and American while Danny went to Japan, China and Hong Kong. So we were both quite busy and Christmas kinda took us by surprise. We drove from Christchurch to Nelson (5.5hr drive) on Christmas eve. By the time we got in, the supermarket in Richmond was closed.
But we decided that Christmas would still be ok without a turkey and all the other goodies that come with the occasion. After all, we still had each other. When we got to our house in Richmond, the house was empty but there was a Christmas tree :) Mum had put the tree up with her “granddaughter” (a family friend’s daughter). Once mum got home that night (she was at a wedding), we catch up with her and told her about our fun adventures overseas.
On Christmas morning, 3 of our employees from Blenheim (1.5hr drive away) came over to our place bearing gifts. They had cooked us a turkey and also had a Christmas hamper for us. It contained lots of Christmas treats. All we were missing now was Christmas Crackers. Well… I found a box of 12 Christmas Crackers hidden in the pantry that we had left over from a previous Christmas.
Our Richmond manager and her boyfriend joined us a bit later too. We all had lunch together. We didn’t have a shortage of food (one of the joys of being in the hospitality industries). I looked over at one of our chefs who was carving the turkey and said “wow, it’s beautiful. Looks almost like you’re a professional!” ;)
My family taught them the tradition of popping Christmas crackers together around the table. There’s an art to it, trust me. We had so much fun and everyone got into the spirit of it all. One of the boys had clip-on earrings in his cracker which we convinced him to wear. I told him he looked pretty. His girlfriend agreed.
It was great to spend time with them. I think that the most fantastic part of it was that they chose to spend time with us on such a day as Christmas. Yes… feel the love. Hehehe. Jack (my brother) managed to get into Richmond in time to hang out with us before we started clearing away the lunch. So all was well.
When they were preparing to leave, we were joined by a large group of family friends. They just came over to spend the later part of the afternoon with us.
In the early part of the evening, my family had time to relax and do our own individual things like talking to friends on the phone and napping. It was good to recharge before socializing with lots of people all over again.
We went over to a family friend’s for Christmas dinner at about 8:30. Since lunch on Christmas day is usually so big, they knew that no one would be hungry til quite late. Many members of my extended family were also there; a grandma, 2 uncles, 3 aunts and lots of cousins.
The family on the back porch
The Poppy Thai Restaurant crew (plus Tiger our cat) in the front yard
My Grandma and I just before xmas dinner
So Christmas was filled with food, family, friends and fun. At the end of the day, I felt a little unfufilled though. I didn’t feel that Jesus had been honored by the day that was coming to its end. The main reason for Christmas was lost by all (or most) of those whom I had spent the day with. What was also sad was that I was partly guilty of ignoring the reason too. I think that the fundamental reason for Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus; a baby who was born approx 2000 years ago to a virgin girl. A baby who would later grow to be a sinless man and save the world. So simple, yet so often neglected. I felt such better (and satisfied) after spending some time with God in prayer and honoring Him. As for my family and friends; I’ll continue to pray for them.
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Home sweet home
I arrived back to NZ last night. The plan? I'm going to go to Nelson tomorrow with my brother and my extended family. We're all goin to spend Christmas there with mum. Then, I'll be waitress there till about mid January before setting up my life in chch for the next 3 years.
From my trip overseas this time, I learnt quite a bit about myself. I guess that my submersion into a foreign enviroment really aided my self evaluation process. I'm moving into my clinical years next month so now is a good time to sort out what I want out of life. I still don't know the extact details but I definitely have a much better idea. For example, I don't know what kind of doctor I'd like to eventually be but I know the qualities that I'm looking for.
I received a letter(that I wrote earlier this year) in the mail yesterday. I know that it sounds a little odd but it's actually very helpful to evaluate the year that is about to pass. Did I achieve all that I wanted to? Were my priorities kept in check? Have I grown as much as I wanted to? Has my life this year been a blessing to those around me?
I think that I did a reasonable job of it all. But is that what I actually want? In my eulogy one day, for my life to be discribed as "reasonable"? NO! I want it to be an extraordinary life full of God's love and gace. A life fulled with adventure and excitement and much much more. I'm going to write another letter sometime in January. There's going to be more of an emphasis on God and my big plans for life will also start to take shape.
I also appreciate my family a little more now. As I'm sure you're all aware, every family is imperfect. Every member has strange quirks that can drive us mad at times. But we love them to bits anyway. I'm not sure whether it's that we love them inspite of their faults or because of them. Maybe it's a bit of both.
My brother (Danny) was in China and Japan while I was in the states. He's now thinking of moving to China to study Mandarin. If he does, he'll be leaving in mid Feb. If so, I'll probably visit him in late October of the coming year. It'll be a huge challenge for him (and our family) for many reasons but I think that (if the plan goes ahead), it'll be a great learning experience for him (and our family).
From my trip overseas this time, I learnt quite a bit about myself. I guess that my submersion into a foreign enviroment really aided my self evaluation process. I'm moving into my clinical years next month so now is a good time to sort out what I want out of life. I still don't know the extact details but I definitely have a much better idea. For example, I don't know what kind of doctor I'd like to eventually be but I know the qualities that I'm looking for.
I received a letter(that I wrote earlier this year) in the mail yesterday. I know that it sounds a little odd but it's actually very helpful to evaluate the year that is about to pass. Did I achieve all that I wanted to? Were my priorities kept in check? Have I grown as much as I wanted to? Has my life this year been a blessing to those around me?
I think that I did a reasonable job of it all. But is that what I actually want? In my eulogy one day, for my life to be discribed as "reasonable"? NO! I want it to be an extraordinary life full of God's love and gace. A life fulled with adventure and excitement and much much more. I'm going to write another letter sometime in January. There's going to be more of an emphasis on God and my big plans for life will also start to take shape.
I also appreciate my family a little more now. As I'm sure you're all aware, every family is imperfect. Every member has strange quirks that can drive us mad at times. But we love them to bits anyway. I'm not sure whether it's that we love them inspite of their faults or because of them. Maybe it's a bit of both.
My brother (Danny) was in China and Japan while I was in the states. He's now thinking of moving to China to study Mandarin. If he does, he'll be leaving in mid Feb. If so, I'll probably visit him in late October of the coming year. It'll be a huge challenge for him (and our family) for many reasons but I think that (if the plan goes ahead), it'll be a great learning experience for him (and our family).
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Dinner and proposal?
I went out for dinner last night with my aunt and some distant relatives from Cambodia (they're in Sydney on holiday). We went to Golden Century; the best chinese seafood restaurant in Sydney (well, in my opinion anyway). Mmmmm, abalone... lobster... fish... all of it gets freshly caught when you order (a bit disturbing? -slightly).
From here onwards, I'll refer to the relatives as the "husband", "wife" and "son". After only a few minutes of meeting the husband, he asks me if I'm married or not. He slips into the conversation about how his younger brother's a millionaire. Before our first dish arrived, he's already told my aunt that he's thinking of making an arrange marriage proposal to me (and my family) for his younger brother and asked for her opinion! eeekk!
My aunt said that his younger brother doesn't have a chance (she's definitely got gumption!). The husband went on to tell us that his brother's very successful and lives in a huuuge house. I said that I wasn't big on houses ;)
Apparently, I'm in the prime age for getting married and give it another few years and I'll be an old maid. Heck! I'd rather be an old spinster than be some random's trophy wife!
Anyway, I thought that I'd share that with you all. Pretty crazy hah?
From here onwards, I'll refer to the relatives as the "husband", "wife" and "son". After only a few minutes of meeting the husband, he asks me if I'm married or not. He slips into the conversation about how his younger brother's a millionaire. Before our first dish arrived, he's already told my aunt that he's thinking of making an arrange marriage proposal to me (and my family) for his younger brother and asked for her opinion! eeekk!
My aunt said that his younger brother doesn't have a chance (she's definitely got gumption!). The husband went on to tell us that his brother's very successful and lives in a huuuge house. I said that I wasn't big on houses ;)
Apparently, I'm in the prime age for getting married and give it another few years and I'll be an old maid. Heck! I'd rather be an old spinster than be some random's trophy wife!
Anyway, I thought that I'd share that with you all. Pretty crazy hah?
Monday, December 18, 2006
Rest and Relaxation
I had a great day today. Besides a trip to the post office, I spent the day at home (my aunt's place in Sydney). I ate, did laundry, read, ate, hang out with Steph (my cousin),ate, watched a video. I'm now eating a Magnum ice cream while writing this post with one hand.
The video that I watched was "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" It's a good movie. I recommend it if you're looking for a comedy (Or some eye candy if you're a girl, lol). George Clooney is pretty attractive for an old dude (distinguished in other words). Besides, it's an old movie so he's much younger in it. The charactershad thick southern ascents which reminded me of my stay in the south (Texas and Tennessee). Oh the memories :)
The video that I watched was "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" It's a good movie. I recommend it if you're looking for a comedy (Or some eye candy if you're a girl, lol). George Clooney is pretty attractive for an old dude (distinguished in other words). Besides, it's an old movie so he's much younger in it. The charactershad thick southern ascents which reminded me of my stay in the south (Texas and Tennessee). Oh the memories :)
Saturday, December 16, 2006
I'm overweight!
Yes, my trip to America has resulting in me being about 50pounds overweight. I was anticipating gaining a bit but not quite this much. It may come as a shock to some of you but I assure you that I'm telling the truth. Now... you're probably wondering how this happened. Well, it's partly the food (eg. Reese's pieces) but it's also cos of the random stuff that I've bought. You see, I was able to check in approx. 100 pounds worth of luggage for my trip (Sanfransico to Sydney), but I'm only allowed 23kg (50pounds) to take back to NZ (from Sydney).
I met up with Penny today. It was great to catch up with her. She's a friend of mine who's studying nursing in a graduate programme in Sydney. We went to a couple of markets in Sydney. There were lots of cool things (and very reasonably priced too). However, I wasn't too keen on gaining anymore weight. The great thing though is that she's heading back to Christchurch this Tuesday and she's taking 5kg of my stuff with her. Woo hoo!
I just need to somehow pack strategically and sneak in extra hand luggage. I've given about half of my candy to my family in Sydney so I've probably only have an extra 10kgs now. I think I can do it, there's hope :)
I met up with Penny today. It was great to catch up with her. She's a friend of mine who's studying nursing in a graduate programme in Sydney. We went to a couple of markets in Sydney. There were lots of cool things (and very reasonably priced too). However, I wasn't too keen on gaining anymore weight. The great thing though is that she's heading back to Christchurch this Tuesday and she's taking 5kg of my stuff with her. Woo hoo!
I just need to somehow pack strategically and sneak in extra hand luggage. I've given about half of my candy to my family in Sydney so I've probably only have an extra 10kgs now. I think I can do it, there's hope :)
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Memphis Tennessee
I arrived here in Memphis on Saturaday night.
Jesse's mum's (Becky) is a doctor and her holiday office party was that night. I went to it with Becky and Greg (Jesse's dad). It was a lot of fun and I got the opportunity to meet quite a few doctors that night.
I got to dance with Greg. He's a great dancer ( and so is Becky but I didn't do any swing dancing with her).
I'm having a great time in Memphis with Jesse's family. I've done so much. Hmmmm, so little time to discribe it all so I'll just list some of the highlights.
- Chruch at 2nd Presbyterian
- Shopping (I'm such a girl!)
- observered lots of hospital preocedures (including heart surgery!)
- went to the Rock 'n Soul museum
- walked down Beale St and the Missisipi river
- was the Duck's march at the Peabody hotel
Plus, I've been hanging out with the Wright family. They're lots of fun :) They've been taking great caring of me AAND Greg cooked us a fabulous southern dinner last night. Catfish... cornbread... and lots of other goodies.
Jesse's mum's (Becky) is a doctor and her holiday office party was that night. I went to it with Becky and Greg (Jesse's dad). It was a lot of fun and I got the opportunity to meet quite a few doctors that night.
I got to dance with Greg. He's a great dancer ( and so is Becky but I didn't do any swing dancing with her).
I'm having a great time in Memphis with Jesse's family. I've done so much. Hmmmm, so little time to discribe it all so I'll just list some of the highlights.
- Chruch at 2nd Presbyterian
- Shopping (I'm such a girl!)
- observered lots of hospital preocedures (including heart surgery!)
- went to the Rock 'n Soul museum
- walked down Beale St and the Missisipi river
- was the Duck's march at the Peabody hotel
Plus, I've been hanging out with the Wright family. They're lots of fun :) They've been taking great caring of me AAND Greg cooked us a fabulous southern dinner last night. Catfish... cornbread... and lots of other goodies.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Fortworth
Our trip to Fortworth was eventful! Briana, Christa, Abbey and I are very fortunate to still be alive. Let me tell about the crazy thing that happened during our road trip (1hour out of Nacodoches). We were on the freeway and a car that was in the lane next to us speed up towards us. We heard the acceleration as the car past us. Shortly after this the driver slammed on his breaks and made a shape turn so the his car was perpendicular to us. The car's centripetal velocity caused it to skid so that the car now faced towards us.
Once the car was facing us, it flipped over several times and rolled into the ditch that was filled with water. It honestly looking like something off an action movie. It was a complete miracle that we didn't have a head on collision and that I'm alive to tell the tail now! I wasn't very shaken by the whole experience but I expected to be later on. I just thought that prehaps the extent of what happened hadn't really sucken in.
I'm still unshaken by the incident. I think it's because I know that God was taking care of me (and the other girls). That He's got a plan for us all and that we're still meant to be alive. It really made me re-evaluate my life though. Hmmmm, more on that at a later stage.
We went to the "cracker barrel restaurant" after that. Then we took a picture just be reminded of how thankful we all were at that moment to be alive.
The random that I asked to take the photo later told me that he was a professional photographer. Woo hoo, we were just full of good fortune!
Abbey and I went to the largest Honky Tonk bar in the world that night. We did all the essentials:
-Danced the 2-step with a southern gentlemen
-Gamble on the pokies
-Watch bullriding (woo hoo, real cow boys!), plus the guy at the entrance let us in for free (just cos we're us) ;)
-got a photo on a fake bull
-Listened to live Country music
-touched Johnny Cash's hand print on the wall
Once the car was facing us, it flipped over several times and rolled into the ditch that was filled with water. It honestly looking like something off an action movie. It was a complete miracle that we didn't have a head on collision and that I'm alive to tell the tail now! I wasn't very shaken by the whole experience but I expected to be later on. I just thought that prehaps the extent of what happened hadn't really sucken in.
I'm still unshaken by the incident. I think it's because I know that God was taking care of me (and the other girls). That He's got a plan for us all and that we're still meant to be alive. It really made me re-evaluate my life though. Hmmmm, more on that at a later stage.
We went to the "cracker barrel restaurant" after that. Then we took a picture just be reminded of how thankful we all were at that moment to be alive.
The random that I asked to take the photo later told me that he was a professional photographer. Woo hoo, we were just full of good fortune!Abbey and I went to the largest Honky Tonk bar in the world that night. We did all the essentials:
-Danced the 2-step with a southern gentlemen
-Gamble on the pokies
-Watch bullriding (woo hoo, real cow boys!), plus the guy at the entrance let us in for free (just cos we're us) ;)
-got a photo on a fake bull
-Listened to live Country music
-touched Johnny Cash's hand print on the wall
Saturday, December 9, 2006
Good Bye Nacodoches
The past 3 weeks have gone by so fast. I've really enjoyed my stay here in Nacodoches Tx. The people here are great; so friendly and curtious. I'm sure that I'll be back again someday soon.
So, what's next? I'm off to Fortworth with Abbey, Christa and Briana in about 15minutes time. I'm going to the largest Honky Tonk bar in the world! How exciting is that?
So, what's next? I'm off to Fortworth with Abbey, Christa and Briana in about 15minutes time. I'm going to the largest Honky Tonk bar in the world! How exciting is that?
Thursday, December 7, 2006
I'm awesome AND FAMOUS!
I'm in 'The Daily Sentinel' today. Ok, the article wasn't about me BUT... having your photo in the local paper is still an acheivement. Definitely something to be proud of! ;)
Abbey writes weekly articles for the paper and she needed a photo of someone wearing the NHS Alumnni shirt. So... I was her model. She didn't pay me a dime! I know, I'm used and abused by that woman!
Speaking of used and abused ;) I cooked for the in-laws tonight (Abbey's family). I had Abbey and Jeff to help me so dinner didn't require much effort at all. They all enjoyed the food and really appreciated that I SLAVED over a hot stove for them all. I know, I'm an awesome housewife!
Jeff and myself:
Mmmmm, yuuuummmmy! (honestly)
conversation amongst the cooks
My helpers did a beautiful job setting the table
Abbey writes weekly articles for the paper and she needed a photo of someone wearing the NHS Alumnni shirt. So... I was her model. She didn't pay me a dime! I know, I'm used and abused by that woman!
Speaking of used and abused ;) I cooked for the in-laws tonight (Abbey's family). I had Abbey and Jeff to help me so dinner didn't require much effort at all. They all enjoyed the food and really appreciated that I SLAVED over a hot stove for them all. I know, I'm an awesome housewife!
Jeff and myself:
Mmmmm, yuuuummmmy! (honestly)
conversation amongst the cooks
My helpers did a beautiful job setting the table
Tuesday, December 5, 2006
Creative Cookies
Katie and Thomas came over for dinner last night. I made chicken noodle soup from scratch since Abbey and I both weren't feeling very well. After this we all decorated cookies. I'd never done it before but I'd like to think that my dedication and immense concentration made up for my lack of experience.
This photo was taken before we all started eating our creations. More were made than can be seen in the photo but many were eaten while we were all decorating them.
This photo was taken before we all started eating our creations. More were made than can be seen in the photo but many were eaten while we were all decorating them.
Monday, December 4, 2006
Early Xmas celebrations
Abbey and I went shopping yesterday. I had a pretty successful time in the Gap store. I love how they have XS in most of the styles that I like. It can be so frustrating in NZ :(
That evening, we went to Abbey's parents place to have authentic chilli dogs before going downtown to see the christmas parade. It was great fun to watch :)
Here are a couple of pics from the parade.
There were even some foke singers out that night. The parade ended with a fireworks display. After the fireworks, we went back to Abbey's parent's place to sit by the fire and hang out. That's when I noticed that I lost an earing that I was wearing. I was a bit upset since it was one of my favourite. I got it as a 21st birthday present and it was the type that went with so many different outfits too.
After church today, Abbey and I went to Esther's family's place for lunch. Great food. After this, Abbey and I decided to go looking for my lost earring. I knew that finding it was a long shot but it was still worth a try. We pulled over by the corner where we watched the fireworks last night. The very first place on the ground that I looked was exactly where the lost earing was! Abbey hadn't yet gotten out of the car when I was standing at the corner looking at my lost earing. It was that fast! What a miracle! :)
That evening, we went to Abbey's parents place to have authentic chilli dogs before going downtown to see the christmas parade. It was great fun to watch :)
Here are a couple of pics from the parade.
There were even some foke singers out that night. The parade ended with a fireworks display. After the fireworks, we went back to Abbey's parent's place to sit by the fire and hang out. That's when I noticed that I lost an earing that I was wearing. I was a bit upset since it was one of my favourite. I got it as a 21st birthday present and it was the type that went with so many different outfits too.
After church today, Abbey and I went to Esther's family's place for lunch. Great food. After this, Abbey and I decided to go looking for my lost earring. I knew that finding it was a long shot but it was still worth a try. We pulled over by the corner where we watched the fireworks last night. The very first place on the ground that I looked was exactly where the lost earing was! Abbey hadn't yet gotten out of the car when I was standing at the corner looking at my lost earing. It was that fast! What a miracle! :)
Saturday, December 2, 2006
Laughing at yourself
Abbey, Anna and I went out for dinner and then watched a movie in Lufkin "Casino Royale". The movie was pretty good. We all enjoyed it. Not to sound at all cheesy but the company was just as good (if not better) than the movie. We had a great time over dinner and in the car.
I laughed at Abbey, Abbey laughed at me and Anna laughed at the both of us. Anna thinks before she speaks so she says a lot fewer stupid things than Abbey and I. As a defence to Abbey and I; I'd like to think that we both do it for the sake of entertainment.
During dinner Abbey and Anna laughed at how I say "wee". For example "I had a wee nap earlier today". I guess it's a New Zealand thing. I told them how I find it hilarious that there are guys in the states named "Randy". If you don't know what Randy means in NZ... hmmm.... ask a New Zealander.
Well, when we were back on the road, there was a business van with "RANDY"S fine food" written on it. I HAD to get a photo of it. So... we changed into the other lane, and we drove right next to it to get a good shot. I had to put the flash on my camera on cos the photos were too blurry without it. I had to take a few in order to get a good photo. I now wonder what the van driver was thinking. Oh well, no harm was done and the 3 of us got lots of laughter out of it.
I laughed at Abbey, Abbey laughed at me and Anna laughed at the both of us. Anna thinks before she speaks so she says a lot fewer stupid things than Abbey and I. As a defence to Abbey and I; I'd like to think that we both do it for the sake of entertainment.
During dinner Abbey and Anna laughed at how I say "wee". For example "I had a wee nap earlier today". I guess it's a New Zealand thing. I told them how I find it hilarious that there are guys in the states named "Randy". If you don't know what Randy means in NZ... hmmm.... ask a New Zealander.
Well, when we were back on the road, there was a business van with "RANDY"S fine food" written on it. I HAD to get a photo of it. So... we changed into the other lane, and we drove right next to it to get a good shot. I had to put the flash on my camera on cos the photos were too blurry without it. I had to take a few in order to get a good photo. I now wonder what the van driver was thinking. Oh well, no harm was done and the 3 of us got lots of laughter out of it.
Friday, December 1, 2006
Lessons and Revision
I've learnt (or relearnt) many lessons during my texas stay so far. They've been the kind that you have to learn practically for yourself (you can't simply be taught the theory).
-God has everything under control
-God can miracuously improve our "perfect plans"
-helplessness does not equate to hopelessness
-what appears to be a defeat can actually be a detour; persistance can be the key
-a few moments of patience can make a huge difference
-true friends love each other independent of circumstance
-assume people's intentions are good even when the outcome suggests otherwise
-when you can't choose what happens around you, you can still choose how you react to it. Therefore, you still have a responsiblity concerning your situation
I hope you can all see that I'm very thankful for all these lessons. It's been pointed out (by someone who has recently read the list above) that in order for me to have learnt these lessons, my experience in Texas (so far) must have been less than perfect. However, I wish to emphasize that whatever circumstances have lead me to these lessons are relatively unimportant. If I had to choose between a blissful 2 weeks with no lessons or an imperfect time (ups and downs) with great lessons, I would definitely choose the latter. Imperfections are the things that help shape us as individuals. They help us to grow and be better people. Isn't our purpose in life to do God's will? And to do this, don't we need to constantly grow and learn? Resistance helps build strength. Weakness reminds us to depend on God. Helplessness humbles us. Our patience tried teaches us patience. A storm helps us appreciate inwardly (Godly) peace. I could go on a bit more but I'm sure you all can see what I'm getting at.
One thing I'm not grateful at this moment for though, is the lack to comments on this blog. Feedback and general comments would be much appreciated by me :)
-God has everything under control
-God can miracuously improve our "perfect plans"
-helplessness does not equate to hopelessness
-what appears to be a defeat can actually be a detour; persistance can be the key
-a few moments of patience can make a huge difference
-true friends love each other independent of circumstance
-assume people's intentions are good even when the outcome suggests otherwise
-when you can't choose what happens around you, you can still choose how you react to it. Therefore, you still have a responsiblity concerning your situation
I hope you can all see that I'm very thankful for all these lessons. It's been pointed out (by someone who has recently read the list above) that in order for me to have learnt these lessons, my experience in Texas (so far) must have been less than perfect. However, I wish to emphasize that whatever circumstances have lead me to these lessons are relatively unimportant. If I had to choose between a blissful 2 weeks with no lessons or an imperfect time (ups and downs) with great lessons, I would definitely choose the latter. Imperfections are the things that help shape us as individuals. They help us to grow and be better people. Isn't our purpose in life to do God's will? And to do this, don't we need to constantly grow and learn? Resistance helps build strength. Weakness reminds us to depend on God. Helplessness humbles us. Our patience tried teaches us patience. A storm helps us appreciate inwardly (Godly) peace. I could go on a bit more but I'm sure you all can see what I'm getting at.
One thing I'm not grateful at this moment for though, is the lack to comments on this blog. Feedback and general comments would be much appreciated by me :)
Thursday, November 30, 2006
adventures continue
After shooting up with caffine, Jeff and I were ready to hit the road. We had interesting conversation on the road, talking about everything from Coon hunting to politics...
Once in houston, we went on an exploration around the Intercontinential airport to find the United Airlines ticketing counter.
The woman at the counter refused to help and said that I needed to book the ticket on the phone, again. eek! Not the automated service all over again! Jeff took the inititive and assertively demanded that they assist me. It wasn't long after this that the moment finally arrived. Everything fell into place and I had my ticket from Memphis to Sanfransico! I could hardly believe it and had to have Jeff confirm that all the details on the ticket were correct. Finally, I'm going to Memphis Tennesse, home of Elvis Presley!
Then... lunch, great food, great service, you know- the usual Texan goodness :)
We went to a market, where we found some of the essentials (eg. lemongrass) in order for me to cook for the Abt family. Mmmmm, generic asian food. This is the conversation that Jeff had with Abbey
A: Thida's goin to cook Thai for us
J: I thought Thida was Cambodian?
A: She is but... you know how "all Asian's look the same"? Well, it's the same with their food. lol
Abbey was kidding! (Just in case you all couldn't tell)
I am going to interject into my story now because I should probably explain why I'm going to Memphis.
Back in July of this year, I went to an International Christian Medical & Dental Assoication ( ICMDA) conference in Sydney. This is where I met a Sydney Dent student (Jesse). After the conference, we stayed in touch and became pretty good friends. Jesse is orginally from Tennesse and his parents still live there. AND to make things even more interesting his mother is a Pediatric anesthesiologist! With my free ticket, Abbey adamantly refused to let me go anywhere in the states without knowing people at the destination or having someone go with me on my trip. This seemed really limiting at the time, but then Jesse came to the rescue and suggested I go stay with his parents.
I get to shadow a brilliant doctor ( Jesse's mum) and see another part of the United States, having even more fun adventures!! I'm also really looking forward to going to Jesse's home church. From what I've heard about his church and the sermons I've listened to, it sounds really great. It'll also be cool to meet Jesse's family, whom I've heard so much about.
So, things seem to have worked out beautifully now that I've got my plane ticket :)
Once in houston, we went on an exploration around the Intercontinential airport to find the United Airlines ticketing counter.
The woman at the counter refused to help and said that I needed to book the ticket on the phone, again. eek! Not the automated service all over again! Jeff took the inititive and assertively demanded that they assist me. It wasn't long after this that the moment finally arrived. Everything fell into place and I had my ticket from Memphis to Sanfransico! I could hardly believe it and had to have Jeff confirm that all the details on the ticket were correct. Finally, I'm going to Memphis Tennesse, home of Elvis Presley!
Then... lunch, great food, great service, you know- the usual Texan goodness :)
We went to a market, where we found some of the essentials (eg. lemongrass) in order for me to cook for the Abt family. Mmmmm, generic asian food. This is the conversation that Jeff had with Abbey
A: Thida's goin to cook Thai for us
J: I thought Thida was Cambodian?
A: She is but... you know how "all Asian's look the same"? Well, it's the same with their food. lol
Abbey was kidding! (Just in case you all couldn't tell)
I am going to interject into my story now because I should probably explain why I'm going to Memphis.
Back in July of this year, I went to an International Christian Medical & Dental Assoication ( ICMDA) conference in Sydney. This is where I met a Sydney Dent student (Jesse). After the conference, we stayed in touch and became pretty good friends. Jesse is orginally from Tennesse and his parents still live there. AND to make things even more interesting his mother is a Pediatric anesthesiologist! With my free ticket, Abbey adamantly refused to let me go anywhere in the states without knowing people at the destination or having someone go with me on my trip. This seemed really limiting at the time, but then Jesse came to the rescue and suggested I go stay with his parents.
I get to shadow a brilliant doctor ( Jesse's mum) and see another part of the United States, having even more fun adventures!! I'm also really looking forward to going to Jesse's home church. From what I've heard about his church and the sermons I've listened to, it sounds really great. It'll also be cool to meet Jesse's family, whom I've heard so much about.
So, things seem to have worked out beautifully now that I've got my plane ticket :)
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
The Lumberjacks
I went to a university basketball game tonight. Stephen F. Austin State University (the Lumberjacks) vs Texas Collge. It was great fun. One of the highlights is as follows: The Lumberjacks were on the defence - One of the players got the rebound and next thing we see a breakaway - The closests player is many meters away from him - He gets near the hoop, jumps to acheive a spectacular slam dunk - He puts the ball into the hoop- pulls the hoop down and the ball flies back out! Hmmm... poor guy.
I'm off to Houston tomorrow morning with the hope of getting the plane ticket. It's turned out that Jeff is going to fix the car problem himself but we're still going to Houston anyway. Like I said, he was prepared to go for my sake in the first place. I'm sure that we'll have lots of fun on our roadtrip.
I'm off to Houston tomorrow morning with the hope of getting the plane ticket. It's turned out that Jeff is going to fix the car problem himself but we're still going to Houston anyway. Like I said, he was prepared to go for my sake in the first place. I'm sure that we'll have lots of fun on our roadtrip.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Problem Solved
It's all sorted. Jeff Abt (Abbey's dad) and I are going to Houston on Wednesday morning. He's great and was willing to make the 2hour trip (4hours return) for my sake so that I could redeem my free ticket. It would cost over US$600 for a flight from Memphis to Sanfransico otherwise.
Even though it can be thought of as a substitution for my planned trip into Houston to catch my flight there on the 13December, I couldn't help but still feel a bit guilty (for obvious reasons). But the great news is that he's going to get work done on his Lexus (under Warrentee) on Wednesday in Houston so I'm not the only reason for the trip. We're just doing it earlier than he would have otherwise. Woo hoo! I couldn't have asked for a better solution. I'm thankful and guilt free. God is awesome :)
Even though it can be thought of as a substitution for my planned trip into Houston to catch my flight there on the 13December, I couldn't help but still feel a bit guilty (for obvious reasons). But the great news is that he's going to get work done on his Lexus (under Warrentee) on Wednesday in Houston so I'm not the only reason for the trip. We're just doing it earlier than he would have otherwise. Woo hoo! I couldn't have asked for a better solution. I'm thankful and guilt free. God is awesome :)
Good Medicine
I had some good medicine for my anxiety today; General Medicine to be more specific ;) I went to Dr Cline's clinic today and followed him around. It helped me to take my mind off the whole traveling issue. It was great to see a general practioner in Nachodoches in action. He has Physician's Assistances and nurses that help him out so the clinic is able to get through a lot of patients dispite having only 1 doctor present.
It was 10 times more interesting than my perclinical years. The time went by so quickly and I managed to understand pretty much all of it which was great. My reading speed also managed to increase drastically. I guess that I wasn't really challenged in med school to read at a quick pace.
We came across a couple of patients that "knew better than Dr Cline". It was amusing to hear what these patients had to say. I could understand how they came to their conclusion given what they looked up and the resources they used. However, luckily for them, Dr Cline is a DOCTOR and has more advanced resources up his sleeve. He handled it very well. He listened and allowed them to say what they wanted to say. He then acknowledged that he had heard and took their suggestion into account. the patients were wrong but we both could still respect their suggestion.
I've had the opposite thing happened to me once. I went to the doctors and self diagnosed myself (as subtly as I could). She preceded to reason with me and say why I was wrong (she thought I had med student syndrome). She told me about my body and reasons for certain things. I said that I knew my body and that we should go ahead with tests. She said that I should wait it out and to go back in 2 months if the symptoms didn't go away. I went back in 2 weeks. She relunctantly ordered the tests that I wanted. Surely enough, I was right! Ok, so it wasn't a life or death situation. And yes, I was slightly paranoid and she had good reason to doubt. However, I did get immense satisfaction from finding out that I was right when originally I was told that I paranoid.
It was 10 times more interesting than my perclinical years. The time went by so quickly and I managed to understand pretty much all of it which was great. My reading speed also managed to increase drastically. I guess that I wasn't really challenged in med school to read at a quick pace.
We came across a couple of patients that "knew better than Dr Cline". It was amusing to hear what these patients had to say. I could understand how they came to their conclusion given what they looked up and the resources they used. However, luckily for them, Dr Cline is a DOCTOR and has more advanced resources up his sleeve. He handled it very well. He listened and allowed them to say what they wanted to say. He then acknowledged that he had heard and took their suggestion into account. the patients were wrong but we both could still respect their suggestion.
I've had the opposite thing happened to me once. I went to the doctors and self diagnosed myself (as subtly as I could). She preceded to reason with me and say why I was wrong (she thought I had med student syndrome). She told me about my body and reasons for certain things. I said that I knew my body and that we should go ahead with tests. She said that I should wait it out and to go back in 2 months if the symptoms didn't go away. I went back in 2 weeks. She relunctantly ordered the tests that I wanted. Surely enough, I was right! Ok, so it wasn't a life or death situation. And yes, I was slightly paranoid and she had good reason to doubt. However, I did get immense satisfaction from finding out that I was right when originally I was told that I paranoid.
Worst than WINZ
Many NZ students have applied for a student loan using the voice automated phone system. The voice says "I can understand what you say", but sometimes it has issues understanding. Well, what happened last night was much much worst.
Let me explain the situation first. My flights back to Sydney goes as follows: Houston-Sanfransico-Sydney. I had decided to go to Memphis and we thought it best to go straight after my honkie-tonk experience in Forthworth since we would be closer to an airport (Dallas) than Nachodoches. I had one free ticket for a round trip and could use it for part of my trip (Memphis to Sanfransico) and just needed to purchase a ticket from Dallas to Memphis. This seemed perfect since it would save someone a trip to Houston to drop me off at the airport.
Abbey and I had no issues purchasing the ticket to get me to Memphis. It took probably 5 minute intotal to book and pay. The silly thing though was it was cheaper to a round trip (return ticket) than it was to buy a one way. Secondly, I needed to buy the ticket to connect me to my international flight. This proved a lot more challenging. Over an hour of talking to a voice automated service and speaking to travel agents (who had hearing issues and had english as a second language), everything finally seemed on track.
One of the conditions for using my free ticket was that it needed to be booked at least 14days in advance of the trip taking place. Since it was yesterday and the flight wasn't until Dec 13th, it would be ok. Well, so I thought! 14 BUSINESS days! so what does that mean?
It means that, for me to use the free ticket, I need to be at an airport to take the ticket within 24hours of booking a flight. I checked for flights for this coming Wed to get a comparision of the likely available flights, if I were to wait until I got to Dallas (Dec 9) in order to book and get my ticket then. There were flights, but they were early morning and would arrive AFTER my international flight. I'd have to leave on the Tuesday and stay over in Sanfransico (if I manage to get a ticket). Oh, the drama. So... here I am, Monday 6:43am, writing this, thinking... hoping... praying... for a good solution and for God's peace in me.
Let me explain the situation first. My flights back to Sydney goes as follows: Houston-Sanfransico-Sydney. I had decided to go to Memphis and we thought it best to go straight after my honkie-tonk experience in Forthworth since we would be closer to an airport (Dallas) than Nachodoches. I had one free ticket for a round trip and could use it for part of my trip (Memphis to Sanfransico) and just needed to purchase a ticket from Dallas to Memphis. This seemed perfect since it would save someone a trip to Houston to drop me off at the airport.
Abbey and I had no issues purchasing the ticket to get me to Memphis. It took probably 5 minute intotal to book and pay. The silly thing though was it was cheaper to a round trip (return ticket) than it was to buy a one way. Secondly, I needed to buy the ticket to connect me to my international flight. This proved a lot more challenging. Over an hour of talking to a voice automated service and speaking to travel agents (who had hearing issues and had english as a second language), everything finally seemed on track.
One of the conditions for using my free ticket was that it needed to be booked at least 14days in advance of the trip taking place. Since it was yesterday and the flight wasn't until Dec 13th, it would be ok. Well, so I thought! 14 BUSINESS days! so what does that mean?
It means that, for me to use the free ticket, I need to be at an airport to take the ticket within 24hours of booking a flight. I checked for flights for this coming Wed to get a comparision of the likely available flights, if I were to wait until I got to Dallas (Dec 9) in order to book and get my ticket then. There were flights, but they were early morning and would arrive AFTER my international flight. I'd have to leave on the Tuesday and stay over in Sanfransico (if I manage to get a ticket). Oh, the drama. So... here I am, Monday 6:43am, writing this, thinking... hoping... praying... for a good solution and for God's peace in me.
Monday, November 27, 2006
My Thoughts
I came to the realisation of something quite obvious yet quite profound last night. My blog is called: "Thida's Thoughts" and not "Thida's regurgitation of her procedural memory". I'm sure that some of you may like the step by step walk through my life but that wasn't really the purpose of this blog.
The purpose of this blog is to stay in touch with you all but it is also suppose to serve another important purpose. This purpose is for me to be able to read it in the near (and distant) future and reflect on how I've grown as a person. Hopefully I will have. I've been so catch up in doing things in Texas that I've neglected to just be. Of course in order to "be" I need to actually "do" certain things but hopefully you all know what I mean.
One of the things I wanted was to read books that would feed my creative mind and also books that would help me to have a better perspective of my Creator. i've been neglecting my quiet times with God over the pass many days. Fortunately Abbey and I prayed together last night. We both really didn't want to, yet somehow we both knew that we really needed to.
It's ironic how sometimes when you least desire to prayer to God, it's when you need to the most. Thankfully we both knew this.
The rest of my holidays may or may not be filled with travel and outrageous adventure. I now don't mind either way. But hopefully what this holiday will mean is that I'll leave Texas knowing that I've been changed for the better. That I will have a better idea of; the Texan culture and lifestyle, who I am, God's purpose for my life and God Himself.
The purpose of this blog is to stay in touch with you all but it is also suppose to serve another important purpose. This purpose is for me to be able to read it in the near (and distant) future and reflect on how I've grown as a person. Hopefully I will have. I've been so catch up in doing things in Texas that I've neglected to just be. Of course in order to "be" I need to actually "do" certain things but hopefully you all know what I mean.
One of the things I wanted was to read books that would feed my creative mind and also books that would help me to have a better perspective of my Creator. i've been neglecting my quiet times with God over the pass many days. Fortunately Abbey and I prayed together last night. We both really didn't want to, yet somehow we both knew that we really needed to.
It's ironic how sometimes when you least desire to prayer to God, it's when you need to the most. Thankfully we both knew this.
The rest of my holidays may or may not be filled with travel and outrageous adventure. I now don't mind either way. But hopefully what this holiday will mean is that I'll leave Texas knowing that I've been changed for the better. That I will have a better idea of; the Texan culture and lifestyle, who I am, God's purpose for my life and God Himself.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
It's official, I'm a clinical student next year!
I checked my exam results today and I passed. For those that aren't familar, Otago Medical School doesn't give students grades on our results but meerly tells us whether we "passed", "failed" or got a "distinction". I'm happy to have had them confirm that I will not be needing to sit specials or repeat 3rd year. Woo hoo!
A new tradition
I think that I may have started an "anti-thanksgiving" day. It's the day after thanksgiving and consists of lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. I'm trusting Abbey to continue it in years to come. I was feeling a bit unwell yesterday and really craved my "5+ a day". So Abbey, Abbey's friend's (Katie and Amy) and I went to the grocery store to get supplies. We then came back home and cooked; like good woman should! ;) We all toasted to anti-thanksgiving with a glass of California Cab Sav.
Katie and Amy are now newly converted "Singstar" fans.
So overall, it was a very successful girl's night and for a "visual" idea of the evening read Abbey's picture blog
Katie and Amy are now newly converted "Singstar" fans.
So overall, it was a very successful girl's night and for a "visual" idea of the evening read Abbey's picture blog
Saturday, November 25, 2006
the moment...
I tried to teach Abbey how to say the word, "no" and "yes" in a New Zealand accent...she got "yes" pretty quickly ( what does THAT say about her?! ) But, noo was a bit more difficult, as you can tell:
Post Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving dinner at the Abt family was great. The food was fantastic. however, I didn't do the meal justice since I was still full from thanksgiving lunch. The dinner made me appreciate how much americans love fruit pies. A few quotes about pies were read. Later on, we even toasted and drunk to pie. lol My first thanksgiving ended with us all watching "miracle on 34th street". The start of the movie was very similar to the start of our morning; watching a parade while sitting on the window sill.
Abbey's parents took Abbey, Anna and I to go see "Stranger than Fiction" today. We all really enjoyed the movie. It was funny, clever and left a good after taste to ponder over. The secret to a great movie.
I patted miniture horses.
Girl's night tonight.
Abbey's parents took Abbey, Anna and I to go see "Stranger than Fiction" today. We all really enjoyed the movie. It was funny, clever and left a good after taste to ponder over. The secret to a great movie.
I patted miniture horses.
Girl's night tonight.
Friday, November 24, 2006
Abbey's Brithday
What a day! November 22nd might just be the highlight of my summer. Wow!
Abbey, Anna and I went to Houston for Abbey's birthday. Shopping there was definitely an experience to say the least. We all bought lots of great things. Abbey and I sent a small fortune. Anna was more well behaved HOWEVER she did pay for the hotel and the concert tickets and the birthday dinner. This was all for Abbey's birthday. What an awesome big sister hah?
The concert was amazing. The open act was really good. He was a local singer Levi Weaver But then there was this guy Kid Beyound who not only beat box but made all these sounds that I didn't think was possible for a human to do. It was insane! He had a loop box and made music using only his mouth. he imitates instruments like the base, the drums, symbols and the celo. How crazy is that? He did everything from hardcore house to a Portishead cover.
Somehow, Imogen Heap managed to out do Kid Beyond. She was adorable and and blew our mind with her talent and personality. Overall, we pulled of a fabulous concert. WE very very impressed.
This morning Abbey and I went to breakfast and found that we could watch the thanksgiving parade while sitting on the deeply setted window sillls because it went straight pass our hotel. We had such a great view.
I'm off now to a thanksgiving lunch.
Abbey, Anna and I went to Houston for Abbey's birthday. Shopping there was definitely an experience to say the least. We all bought lots of great things. Abbey and I sent a small fortune. Anna was more well behaved HOWEVER she did pay for the hotel and the concert tickets and the birthday dinner. This was all for Abbey's birthday. What an awesome big sister hah?
The concert was amazing. The open act was really good. He was a local singer Levi Weaver But then there was this guy Kid Beyound who not only beat box but made all these sounds that I didn't think was possible for a human to do. It was insane! He had a loop box and made music using only his mouth. he imitates instruments like the base, the drums, symbols and the celo. How crazy is that? He did everything from hardcore house to a Portishead cover.
Somehow, Imogen Heap managed to out do Kid Beyond. She was adorable and and blew our mind with her talent and personality. Overall, we pulled of a fabulous concert. WE very very impressed.
This morning Abbey and I went to breakfast and found that we could watch the thanksgiving parade while sitting on the deeply setted window sillls because it went straight pass our hotel. We had such a great view.
I'm off now to a thanksgiving lunch.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Abbey's Birthday Dinner
I went to a Rotary lunch this afternoon to network with local business people with Anna (Abbey's sister). It was a thanksgiving lunch with the classics like turkey, cranberry sauce and apple pie.
Wall Mart was fun. Abbey and I bought SingStar. I can't believe that it took so long for it to come out in this country! Insane that NZ has had this PS2 game for over two years. We're a hip little country after all :) I bought an American cell phone today. For some crazy reason it turns out to be cheaper than just buying a sim card. It was such a mission to to activate my phone. The machine couldn't understand my acsent. It was so sad. I don't have a speech impediment I swear! I had to ask Abbey to speak for me.
I also bought lots of sweets. Mmmmm Reeses Peanut butter cups... Peanut butter M&Ms.... Mr Goodbar and much much more. Man, Americans knows how to make fat taste so good!
Went to Abbey's parents for dinner. Great company and good food. However, the company did manage to talk about pie and pizza for well over half an hour. lol. To be fair, intellegent conversation did sandwich the food talk ;)
We watched a couple of home videos of Abbey from 2 decades ago! Reminded us all of our mortality and the fact that it doesn't matter how old and tough we are, we were all cute and little at one stage.
I still haven't decided where in the states I'd like to travel to so if anyone has good suggestions, please let me know. We're off to Houston tomorrow to shop and then later, to an Imogen Heap concert.
Wall Mart was fun. Abbey and I bought SingStar. I can't believe that it took so long for it to come out in this country! Insane that NZ has had this PS2 game for over two years. We're a hip little country after all :) I bought an American cell phone today. For some crazy reason it turns out to be cheaper than just buying a sim card. It was such a mission to to activate my phone. The machine couldn't understand my acsent. It was so sad. I don't have a speech impediment I swear! I had to ask Abbey to speak for me.
I also bought lots of sweets. Mmmmm Reeses Peanut butter cups... Peanut butter M&Ms.... Mr Goodbar and much much more. Man, Americans knows how to make fat taste so good!
Went to Abbey's parents for dinner. Great company and good food. However, the company did manage to talk about pie and pizza for well over half an hour. lol. To be fair, intellegent conversation did sandwich the food talk ;)
We watched a couple of home videos of Abbey from 2 decades ago! Reminded us all of our mortality and the fact that it doesn't matter how old and tough we are, we were all cute and little at one stage.
I still haven't decided where in the states I'd like to travel to so if anyone has good suggestions, please let me know. We're off to Houston tomorrow to shop and then later, to an Imogen Heap concert.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Jetlag
I woke up at 3am this morning, took some antihistamines and then eventually fell alseep again.
Woke up at noon and went for a jog so I won't feel like a complete bum. Got lost so my workout was extended. I kepts calm and eventually found home. A little scary? Yes.
Abbey's sister Anna came over to bring me takeouts for dinner tonight. What a sweetie. My "tacos for 1" was enough to feed a family! Seriously! It's insane how big everything is here! It's not a complaint for sure. It just meant that I could eat dinner twice tonight. Mmmmm, TexMex is good!
Bible study tonight was great. I got to meet the girls in Abbey's lifegroup, they're such innocent darlings. Abbey and I tried to shock the girls by jokingly saying things like: "I'm really thirsty and need to get drunk really soon!" We studied the Shunammint woman tonight and then prayed for one another. After that, we all had a better perspective on life and we more at peace about the future. We were reminded about how God is perfect and has everything under control.
Woke up at noon and went for a jog so I won't feel like a complete bum. Got lost so my workout was extended. I kepts calm and eventually found home. A little scary? Yes.
Abbey's sister Anna came over to bring me takeouts for dinner tonight. What a sweetie. My "tacos for 1" was enough to feed a family! Seriously! It's insane how big everything is here! It's not a complaint for sure. It just meant that I could eat dinner twice tonight. Mmmmm, TexMex is good!
Bible study tonight was great. I got to meet the girls in Abbey's lifegroup, they're such innocent darlings. Abbey and I tried to shock the girls by jokingly saying things like: "I'm really thirsty and need to get drunk really soon!" We studied the Shunammint woman tonight and then prayed for one another. After that, we all had a better perspective on life and we more at peace about the future. We were reminded about how God is perfect and has everything under control.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Church in Texas
Getting up this morning was hard. Jet lag is not cool. It was worth it though. Abbey's little church is very sweet. I enjoyed singing the hymms and the people were very friendly. They have two sermons in the morning service (hard out!). It was a good thing that both sermons were interesting and required me to think otherwise I would have fallen fast asleep!
Lunch out with Abbey's family. The Abt family is adorable. The meals here are huge! Abbey and I went halves and still didn't finish our porkribs!
Girly chats and fun times with Abbey.
Evening church - good times with God
Dinner out with Abbey's sister's husband's father's family (hope you got that!) - more wholsome texan family time. Another huge meal and again, I'm very full.
Lunch out with Abbey's family. The Abt family is adorable. The meals here are huge! Abbey and I went halves and still didn't finish our porkribs!
Girly chats and fun times with Abbey.
Evening church - good times with God
Dinner out with Abbey's sister's husband's father's family (hope you got that!) - more wholsome texan family time. Another huge meal and again, I'm very full.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Lov'n America!
New Zealand is a luscious, vibrant, friendly, giant farmland and I adore it; but the US is one big adventure at this very moment in time. I'm definitely a fan of adventure :)
I arrived in San Francisco on Friday morning and connected through to Denver. I arrived that afternoon in Denver exhausted. I hadn't slept properly in about 48hours at this stage. My own fault for not getting a decent night's rest before my flight. I thought that I could just sleep on the plane. However, I flew with United. Not comfortable at all!
Anyway, United had oversold tickets for my flight to Houston. They needed 4 people to stay the night at a hotel and catch the morning flight the following day. I selflessly volunteered ;) For my good deed, I got to stay at The DoubleTree Hotel (5 star hotel!), meal vouchers and a free return ticket to anywhere in the states. I just wanted to sleep, so what a bonus! The luxurious king sized bed helped my fatigue and jet lag. For sure!
So far, I've found that the service here in the states in great! However, I just discovered that the minimum tip in this country is 15%. It's a good thing that I was being "generous" by tipping 15-20% while I was ignorant otherwise I would have been ripping the waitering staff! opps
I arrived in Houston around 2pm and Abbey along with her girls (Christa and Esther) came to pick me up. The two hour drive to Nachodoches went by pretty quick. I noticed a lot of SUVs. We arrived in time for me to weigh myself (I plan on gaining weight here) and relax to an episode of Grey's Anatomy before heading off to dinner with Abbey and her friends. We had Sushi. The sushi in this country is REALLY delicious! I couldn't finish it though cos I was too full. Then they handed me a piece of heavenly devine mud cake (Abbey's early birthday cake). How could I refuse? I was completely stuffed afterwards!
We watched fireworks and walked around the town for a bit. The Chirstmas lights were out. Very beautiful. America has given me a good first impression. I'm lov'n it
I arrived in San Francisco on Friday morning and connected through to Denver. I arrived that afternoon in Denver exhausted. I hadn't slept properly in about 48hours at this stage. My own fault for not getting a decent night's rest before my flight. I thought that I could just sleep on the plane. However, I flew with United. Not comfortable at all!
Anyway, United had oversold tickets for my flight to Houston. They needed 4 people to stay the night at a hotel and catch the morning flight the following day. I selflessly volunteered ;) For my good deed, I got to stay at The DoubleTree Hotel (5 star hotel!), meal vouchers and a free return ticket to anywhere in the states. I just wanted to sleep, so what a bonus! The luxurious king sized bed helped my fatigue and jet lag. For sure!
So far, I've found that the service here in the states in great! However, I just discovered that the minimum tip in this country is 15%. It's a good thing that I was being "generous" by tipping 15-20% while I was ignorant otherwise I would have been ripping the waitering staff! opps
I arrived in Houston around 2pm and Abbey along with her girls (Christa and Esther) came to pick me up. The two hour drive to Nachodoches went by pretty quick. I noticed a lot of SUVs. We arrived in time for me to weigh myself (I plan on gaining weight here) and relax to an episode of Grey's Anatomy before heading off to dinner with Abbey and her friends. We had Sushi. The sushi in this country is REALLY delicious! I couldn't finish it though cos I was too full. Then they handed me a piece of heavenly devine mud cake (Abbey's early birthday cake). How could I refuse? I was completely stuffed afterwards!
We watched fireworks and walked around the town for a bit. The Chirstmas lights were out. Very beautiful. America has given me a good first impression. I'm lov'n it
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