I came here
Thinking I would "get away from it all"
But there's one little hitch
You see
No matter how hard I try
I can never seem to get away
From me.
Edit: Aplogies to Jackson Browne...I think I plagarized - unitentionally of course! He wrote: "no matter how fast I run, I can never seem to get away from me." I don't remember which song that's from though.
Monday, February 27, 2006
Sunday, February 26, 2006
Living the Good Life
Yesterday Anjoli, my friend here in Taipei, Alice and I treated ourselves to a haircut in an upscale salon near us called Mods Hair. (I wondered if anyone of them have heard of the Who?). Most of the stylists were there were men. I have to say - men here in general (young ones) are quite into style and have very cool hair. (Much more so than the women!).
I had a new experience while getting my hair washed in a vibrating chair - I was tingling from head to toe! The shampoo guy gave me a hard core accupressure message - he was jamming his thumb on the top of my head and I felt this tingling in my right lower leg. Anyway, it woke me up! Then they served me jasmine tea while getting my haircut. I'm getting a taste for it - I never really cared for it at home...I'm glad Alice came (she's from Taiwan) - she translated perfectly for us and we ended up with really nice cuts. Anjoli's stylist asked her if she wanted her hair curly or straight (it's more curly here in Taipei). She opted for straight and wow - I wish I had taken a picture. I won't say anymore because moms shouldn't brag...but he spent nearly an hour on her, and it showed. The total price for both haircuts: a meager $50 (USD)!
We did a little shopping afterwards - there's an incredible store nearby - it's like a mini ultra modern Harrod's. I need to take pictures of their bakery. Beautiful pastries - too pretty to eat! I'm going to get Anjoli's birthday cake there (her bday is March 8th).
For dinner all of us (Sujoy, Anjoli, Alice and her husband Thomas and I) went up Yangmingshan or "Yummy" as the locals refer to it Mountain. We had dinner at an outdoor restaurant - it was breathtakingly beautiful. We arrived to a brief display of fireworks - real ones - not bottlerockets - right over our head - set to Enya's "Sail Away." It's weird, but after my harrowing ordeal a few days back, I was thinking how I could have used an IV dose of Enya...yeah I admit I do enjoy her music. There's a time and place for New Age!
Well, it was a rare treat. Dinner was fab - I sound like a broken record, but the food here is the best on the planet...but you need to have Taiwanese friends who do the ordering for you!
Anjoli starts school tomorrow! Let the panic attacks commence! No - she'll be fine. It will be a little rough on all of us the first day...
Sujoy and I joined a gym today! We're gonna have kickin' bods come August...just you see.
(Do I dare post before and after shots?? Never!)
Hope all of you are well.
Did anyone see my pics of Danshui or are they terribly boring? You need to click on them to enlarge them...but you probably know that already.
I had a new experience while getting my hair washed in a vibrating chair - I was tingling from head to toe! The shampoo guy gave me a hard core accupressure message - he was jamming his thumb on the top of my head and I felt this tingling in my right lower leg. Anyway, it woke me up! Then they served me jasmine tea while getting my haircut. I'm getting a taste for it - I never really cared for it at home...I'm glad Alice came (she's from Taiwan) - she translated perfectly for us and we ended up with really nice cuts. Anjoli's stylist asked her if she wanted her hair curly or straight (it's more curly here in Taipei). She opted for straight and wow - I wish I had taken a picture. I won't say anymore because moms shouldn't brag...but he spent nearly an hour on her, and it showed. The total price for both haircuts: a meager $50 (USD)!
We did a little shopping afterwards - there's an incredible store nearby - it's like a mini ultra modern Harrod's. I need to take pictures of their bakery. Beautiful pastries - too pretty to eat! I'm going to get Anjoli's birthday cake there (her bday is March 8th).
For dinner all of us (Sujoy, Anjoli, Alice and her husband Thomas and I) went up Yangmingshan or "Yummy" as the locals refer to it Mountain. We had dinner at an outdoor restaurant - it was breathtakingly beautiful. We arrived to a brief display of fireworks - real ones - not bottlerockets - right over our head - set to Enya's "Sail Away." It's weird, but after my harrowing ordeal a few days back, I was thinking how I could have used an IV dose of Enya...yeah I admit I do enjoy her music. There's a time and place for New Age!
Well, it was a rare treat. Dinner was fab - I sound like a broken record, but the food here is the best on the planet...but you need to have Taiwanese friends who do the ordering for you!
Anjoli starts school tomorrow! Let the panic attacks commence! No - she'll be fine. It will be a little rough on all of us the first day...
Sujoy and I joined a gym today! We're gonna have kickin' bods come August...just you see.
(Do I dare post before and after shots?? Never!)
Hope all of you are well.
Did anyone see my pics of Danshui or are they terribly boring? You need to click on them to enlarge them...but you probably know that already.
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Pictures of Danshui Part I
Finally some fresh pictures! These were taken a few days back at Danshui. I loved this one arcade - it's the very pink one - it was full of those sticker/photo booths. I took a picture of a photo Valentine. If you look closely at the shot with Anjoli you can see a Christmas tree in the lower left corner - it was covered with Valentines. I like how they combined the two holidays! Why not? There are no rules here...
Friday, February 24, 2006
Culture Shock
You've got to continue to grow, or you're just like last night's cornbread--stale and dry.
-Loretta Lynn
I have to remind myself that I must reach out eagerly and without fear for new and enriching experiences - to paraphrase Eleanor Roosevelt.
But it's hard.
Yesterday Anjoli and I went on a little adventure - we took a Mass Rapid Transit train to the end of the Red line to a place called Danshui. It's where Taipei's Danshui river meets the sea. (Pete Townshend's song "The Sea Refuses No River" kept looping through my head all day!). Getting to the MRT was a little tricky - we had to take a free shuttle outside of a nearby Macy's-like department store. There are a few different shuttles - and of course the signs were all in Mandarin script - so I had to use the old ask- someone-and-point-to- your- map techinque. A woman was kind enough to direct us to the right line - we got on the shuttle - then she tapped me on the shoulder when we reached the station. Good thing she did because not everyone got off, and who knows where we would have ended up!
We got to the ticket booth and were directed to the automated machines...it was a little confusing - but - again - another woman helped me out. People are SO sweet and caring here, I just can't get over it. Anyway we found the right train, and, even after getting off and changing trains after an announcement was made, we got off at Danshui (once AGAIN a couple helped us out when we had to change trains - although I was the one who told THEM that we had to get off and change).
As we exited the station we walked along a cobblestone boardwalk area - full of arcades, restaurants and colorful shops. I read about a ferry which can take you to Fisherman's Wharf - a tourist trap, but, well, that's what we are! So I found the ticket booth, and crossed my fingers that I was buying the right tickets (there were a few ferries) and luckily enough- I did! It was a 15 minute ride - it was cool riding through the waves of the sea - it was a windy day so it was pretty choppy.
Anjoli and I walked around looking for soup - we were so cold. We found a nice restaurant - had a hard time ordering though - but the manager helped us out. The food was incredibly yummy - I can still taste the salmon miso soup. I wish all of you could try it! I also ordered vegetable soup, but we got bok choy and mushrooms instead , as we later found out there was no vegetable soup. I think we were taken advantage of a bit, but oh well. The portions were so huge...we had stir fried beef as well! So much for my diet. It was an expensive lunch so we ate our leftover pizza from Pizza Hut for dinner.
We headed back to the station, did a little window shopping - I bought Anjoli a Voodoo doll keychain (!) it's cute! We got to the station and I was looking for the entrance, when I realized Anjoli was NOT with me! I SCREAMED her name - she didn't come running until the second time I yelled for her. I went ballistic! She was huddled in a group of people who were looking at toy caterpillars that looked real. My heart stopped, I swear.
We took the train back - it was rush hour. At one point an elderly Buddhist nun got on and I quickly jumped up to give her my seat, but she refused,smiling and pointing to Anjoli. Finally, a few stops later a man practically picked her up and sat her down shouting in English - "sit down!!"
We got to our stop, and I asked the man in the information booth for directions on where to catch the shuttle, but he couldn't understand me. We wandered around - bought some socks (30 cents a pop!) then hailed a taxi. I had a card for Anjoli's doctor- she's been sick - yes she's already been to a very nice, conventional English speaking doctor.
He charges $12 for an office visit - medications included! She wasn't improving so I went back to get antibiotics for a sinus infection. Poor thing -she's been sick for 2 weeks.
I asked for syrup - so the pharmacist gave me a sealed box of Augmentin and some acetaminophin that he ground up and put into individual packets (you add it to water).
Well, we get home, and I open the box and totally freak out - because it's filled with powder - he didn't mix it. AND the doctor told me to give her a dosage of 8 ccs, but the cup was in mL.
So I had to drag Anjoli back to the doctor (it's not too far of a walk, but still - she wasn't feeling well). I made her speed walk - which wasn't very nice, but I was SO upset.
I fly into the office and say "excuse me!" to the pharmacist and proceed to tell him that he made a mistake - he forgot to mix the medicine. Then he insists that I'M supposed to do it and then I broke down. I started to cry and told him in a panic stricken voice: "I'M FROM THE UNITED STATES!!! WE DON'T MIX OUR OWN MEDICINE!!!!!" So the nurse told me to wait a minute, the doctor would be right out to help me. I apologized, still crying, explaining that it's so hard - the language barrier - CULTURE SHOCK - my husband has been away (he's been gone for 4 days). She smiled and said, "you're a good mother." That helped so much - it really did. The staff bend over backwards for you - giving Anjoli little candies while we wait - finding her Snoopy stickers after the doctor saw her. I can't get over it.
(She also told me that I looked like a "fast train." Yeah - more like a train WRECK).
The doctor ended up showing me how to mix the antibiotic (I was confused by the directions, but when I read it today - it actually was pretty straightforward!). But I was also mad about the measuring cup.
I feel badly now for freaking out. I think that will be my final nervous breakdown for awhile...and the moral of the story is: before leaving the doctor's office next time, (hopefully not too soon), I will CHECK the meds and make sure everything is hunky dory!!
-Loretta Lynn
I have to remind myself that I must reach out eagerly and without fear for new and enriching experiences - to paraphrase Eleanor Roosevelt.
But it's hard.
Yesterday Anjoli and I went on a little adventure - we took a Mass Rapid Transit train to the end of the Red line to a place called Danshui. It's where Taipei's Danshui river meets the sea. (Pete Townshend's song "The Sea Refuses No River" kept looping through my head all day!). Getting to the MRT was a little tricky - we had to take a free shuttle outside of a nearby Macy's-like department store. There are a few different shuttles - and of course the signs were all in Mandarin script - so I had to use the old ask- someone-and-point-to- your- map techinque. A woman was kind enough to direct us to the right line - we got on the shuttle - then she tapped me on the shoulder when we reached the station. Good thing she did because not everyone got off, and who knows where we would have ended up!
We got to the ticket booth and were directed to the automated machines...it was a little confusing - but - again - another woman helped me out. People are SO sweet and caring here, I just can't get over it. Anyway we found the right train, and, even after getting off and changing trains after an announcement was made, we got off at Danshui (once AGAIN a couple helped us out when we had to change trains - although I was the one who told THEM that we had to get off and change).
As we exited the station we walked along a cobblestone boardwalk area - full of arcades, restaurants and colorful shops. I read about a ferry which can take you to Fisherman's Wharf - a tourist trap, but, well, that's what we are! So I found the ticket booth, and crossed my fingers that I was buying the right tickets (there were a few ferries) and luckily enough- I did! It was a 15 minute ride - it was cool riding through the waves of the sea - it was a windy day so it was pretty choppy.
Anjoli and I walked around looking for soup - we were so cold. We found a nice restaurant - had a hard time ordering though - but the manager helped us out. The food was incredibly yummy - I can still taste the salmon miso soup. I wish all of you could try it! I also ordered vegetable soup, but we got bok choy and mushrooms instead , as we later found out there was no vegetable soup. I think we were taken advantage of a bit, but oh well. The portions were so huge...we had stir fried beef as well! So much for my diet. It was an expensive lunch so we ate our leftover pizza from Pizza Hut for dinner.
We headed back to the station, did a little window shopping - I bought Anjoli a Voodoo doll keychain (!) it's cute! We got to the station and I was looking for the entrance, when I realized Anjoli was NOT with me! I SCREAMED her name - she didn't come running until the second time I yelled for her. I went ballistic! She was huddled in a group of people who were looking at toy caterpillars that looked real. My heart stopped, I swear.
We took the train back - it was rush hour. At one point an elderly Buddhist nun got on and I quickly jumped up to give her my seat, but she refused,smiling and pointing to Anjoli. Finally, a few stops later a man practically picked her up and sat her down shouting in English - "sit down!!"
We got to our stop, and I asked the man in the information booth for directions on where to catch the shuttle, but he couldn't understand me. We wandered around - bought some socks (30 cents a pop!) then hailed a taxi. I had a card for Anjoli's doctor- she's been sick - yes she's already been to a very nice, conventional English speaking doctor.
He charges $12 for an office visit - medications included! She wasn't improving so I went back to get antibiotics for a sinus infection. Poor thing -she's been sick for 2 weeks.
I asked for syrup - so the pharmacist gave me a sealed box of Augmentin and some acetaminophin that he ground up and put into individual packets (you add it to water).
Well, we get home, and I open the box and totally freak out - because it's filled with powder - he didn't mix it. AND the doctor told me to give her a dosage of 8 ccs, but the cup was in mL.
So I had to drag Anjoli back to the doctor (it's not too far of a walk, but still - she wasn't feeling well). I made her speed walk - which wasn't very nice, but I was SO upset.
I fly into the office and say "excuse me!" to the pharmacist and proceed to tell him that he made a mistake - he forgot to mix the medicine. Then he insists that I'M supposed to do it and then I broke down. I started to cry and told him in a panic stricken voice: "I'M FROM THE UNITED STATES!!! WE DON'T MIX OUR OWN MEDICINE!!!!!" So the nurse told me to wait a minute, the doctor would be right out to help me. I apologized, still crying, explaining that it's so hard - the language barrier - CULTURE SHOCK - my husband has been away (he's been gone for 4 days). She smiled and said, "you're a good mother." That helped so much - it really did. The staff bend over backwards for you - giving Anjoli little candies while we wait - finding her Snoopy stickers after the doctor saw her. I can't get over it.
(She also told me that I looked like a "fast train." Yeah - more like a train WRECK).
The doctor ended up showing me how to mix the antibiotic (I was confused by the directions, but when I read it today - it actually was pretty straightforward!). But I was also mad about the measuring cup.
I feel badly now for freaking out. I think that will be my final nervous breakdown for awhile...and the moral of the story is: before leaving the doctor's office next time, (hopefully not too soon), I will CHECK the meds and make sure everything is hunky dory!!
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Our Apartment in Tien Mu, Taipei
Ok I'm slow! Here are pics of the new pad and neighborhood - some of you have seen these already. I have to wait for my USB thingy for my camera to arrive before I can post new pics. So sorry...it should be here in a few days. It's stuck in customs. Our apartment is a 3 bedroom, 2 bath. It's 1250 square feet - but that's because there's only one closet! The second picture is our bedroom - I love the pine tree - the needles look like fingers. Very pretty. I really love the area - it's so vibrant. There's so much to see - millions of little shops - vendors selling all sorts of food (the majority of which is still a mystery to me!). I'm afraid either myself or Anjoli will get run over by a scooter while checking everything out. ( They whizz by so fast and never stop for pedestrians). We have an amazing bakery right around the corner - the bread is to die for. Anjoli is a big fan of their croissants.
The funny thing is our little street (ok it's an ALLEY) is so quiet. I figured living in the city would be very loud - but that's not the case, thankfully! Only hitch is our neighbors upstairs are renovating so it's "hammer time" all day long, starting at 9 a.m. sharp. It's ok, I'm not complaining.
I have so much to share - funny language confusion stories...don't worry - they're coming! It's just overwhelming at this point...I don't know where to start.
Be back soon - hope all is well back in the states! I have to admit I'm already a little homesick...
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Howdy from Taipei!
Hi everyone -
We made it! Arrived safe and sound Wednesday evening. Got our DSL hooked up yesterday.
I've been jotting down notes on our adventure since we arrived and will write a proper post later on...I won't be able to post pics for awhile - I have to wait for the rain to stop -It's been POURING bucketloads for the past 2 days... we better get used to it! I can't wait to take pics of the marketplace - the produce displays are so beautiful - lots of funky fruit and whatnot. :)
I do have pictures of the apartment that were sent to me awhile back so I'll try to share them (they were in a weird format-hopefully I'll figure it out). I promise to share them! Really truly.
I'm missing the Olympics! No coverage here that I can see...I have to pick up a paper and see if I can find a tv listing... The Taipei Times is in English.
Tomorrow we'll go visit Anjoli's school - it's halfway up Yangmingshan Mountain - it's supposed to be gorgeous at this time of year up there - cherry blossoms and other flowers are in bloom. I'm having panic attacks just thinking about the day I send her off to school on the schoolbus! Say a prayer for us! (I'm sure she'll be fine). She's not starting until March 1st - that will give us some time to explore the whole city (on the MRT- Mass Rapid Transit).
Time for "tea and oranges that come all the way from China" (to quote Leonard Cohen).
Be back soon!
(Just fyi it's Sunday, 9:00 a.m. - the date stamp will show PST.)
We made it! Arrived safe and sound Wednesday evening. Got our DSL hooked up yesterday.
I've been jotting down notes on our adventure since we arrived and will write a proper post later on...I won't be able to post pics for awhile - I have to wait for the rain to stop -It's been POURING bucketloads for the past 2 days... we better get used to it! I can't wait to take pics of the marketplace - the produce displays are so beautiful - lots of funky fruit and whatnot. :)
I do have pictures of the apartment that were sent to me awhile back so I'll try to share them (they were in a weird format-hopefully I'll figure it out). I promise to share them! Really truly.
I'm missing the Olympics! No coverage here that I can see...I have to pick up a paper and see if I can find a tv listing... The Taipei Times is in English.
Tomorrow we'll go visit Anjoli's school - it's halfway up Yangmingshan Mountain - it's supposed to be gorgeous at this time of year up there - cherry blossoms and other flowers are in bloom. I'm having panic attacks just thinking about the day I send her off to school on the schoolbus! Say a prayer for us! (I'm sure she'll be fine). She's not starting until March 1st - that will give us some time to explore the whole city (on the MRT- Mass Rapid Transit).
Time for "tea and oranges that come all the way from China" (to quote Leonard Cohen).
Be back soon!
(Just fyi it's Sunday, 9:00 a.m. - the date stamp will show PST.)
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
5 Things You Must Know About Me!
Ok Jack tagged me so I better post this...ok here goes:
1. I love ice cream (in fact I love most things that are bad for you, food or otherwise!).
2. I have a bad temper (but only at home and I am trying hard to control it).
3. I am generous.
4. I'm notoriously 5 minutes late (no more than 10).
5. I repress my artistic talents and this makes me very sad. : (
1. I love ice cream (in fact I love most things that are bad for you, food or otherwise!).
2. I have a bad temper (but only at home and I am trying hard to control it).
3. I am generous.
4. I'm notoriously 5 minutes late (no more than 10).
5. I repress my artistic talents and this makes me very sad. : (
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
I'm thinking' about my doorbell...
...when am I gonna hear it?
I am so deaf it's not funny.
Thank you again, Pete Townshend.
I pretty much blame him - he started this tinnitus kick :)
I have to say that Pete is right to be concerned about the present headphone generation of kids...from the time the Walkman came out (early 80s?) ,I was plugged in every moment I could. Of course I had the volume on full blast (the better to tune out the Reagan years). Then, to add insult to injury, I used to go to small divey clubs to hear bands 2-3 times per week (before my mom days!) and I never would wear earplugs, (I wanted to hear eery note!).. So no wonder I have severe hearing loss in one ear.
It started the year "W" was elected...an omen, perhaps?
Anyway - the moral is - take care of your ears - and your kids' too!
Hoping all you guys are well,
I remain,
Yours truly in blogland,
Sue
I am so deaf it's not funny.
Thank you again, Pete Townshend.
I pretty much blame him - he started this tinnitus kick :)
I have to say that Pete is right to be concerned about the present headphone generation of kids...from the time the Walkman came out (early 80s?) ,I was plugged in every moment I could. Of course I had the volume on full blast (the better to tune out the Reagan years). Then, to add insult to injury, I used to go to small divey clubs to hear bands 2-3 times per week (before my mom days!) and I never would wear earplugs, (I wanted to hear eery note!).. So no wonder I have severe hearing loss in one ear.
It started the year "W" was elected...an omen, perhaps?
Anyway - the moral is - take care of your ears - and your kids' too!
Hoping all you guys are well,
I remain,
Yours truly in blogland,
Sue
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Don't jiggle on a rickshaw
I really must apologize for slacking off in blogland. My time has been devoted mostly to getting rid of STUFF and packing (in my mind).
The other day I was at a redlight, thinking, yeah this is boring, but contemplating my wardrobe for the next 6 months in Asia - mostly Taipei but also India.
I was having the same old "scary" flashblack - thinking back to last spring, when during a visit to India to see my in-laws, I was chastized for wearing a (sleeveless, yet conservative) dress with a "western bra" while travelling with my mother-in-law on a bicycle rickshaw. You see, an "Indian bra" (*) is really an unspoken wardrobe requirement when full-figured Western gals, (like myself) visit India.
I was called on the carpet for "jiggling on the rickshaw" which was "horribly embarrasing." If only I was wearing an "Indian bra" she would have been able to have waltzed through the townsquare with her head up, proud of her western daughter-in-law.
But no..
All eyes were upon ME, the girl with the va - va voom, jiggling her way "to market, to market."
This...brought to you by the country that gave the world the Kama Sutra, and temples laden with relief sculptures of man and woman doing it in every position known to man, woman, and beast.
I have a feeling Indians actually ENJOY sex and, the female form. I don't know what it is, just a little hunch.
So, as I was saying, this little exchange, if you will, between my beloved, embarrassed mom-in-law and I is going through my head, and I am thinking, "gosh, should I bring the ugly silwar-chemise that she made for me because it's 'less embarassing' to be seen in it (with or without an Indian bra) than a western style dress?"...and in the same split second, I see a woman, who had been jogging, but she paused and jogged in place at the previously mentioned red light...and she removed her t-shirt to reveal, a very, very skimpy jog bra... and.... my head exploded.
* An Indian bra is kind of like Madonna's "Cone bra" from the early 90s...only not as pointy. They are very flattering and Marilyn Monroe inducing (if you are well endowed).
The other day I was at a redlight, thinking, yeah this is boring, but contemplating my wardrobe for the next 6 months in Asia - mostly Taipei but also India.
I was having the same old "scary" flashblack - thinking back to last spring, when during a visit to India to see my in-laws, I was chastized for wearing a (sleeveless, yet conservative) dress with a "western bra" while travelling with my mother-in-law on a bicycle rickshaw. You see, an "Indian bra" (*) is really an unspoken wardrobe requirement when full-figured Western gals, (like myself) visit India.
I was called on the carpet for "jiggling on the rickshaw" which was "horribly embarrasing." If only I was wearing an "Indian bra" she would have been able to have waltzed through the townsquare with her head up, proud of her western daughter-in-law.
But no..
All eyes were upon ME, the girl with the va - va voom, jiggling her way "to market, to market."
This...brought to you by the country that gave the world the Kama Sutra, and temples laden with relief sculptures of man and woman doing it in every position known to man, woman, and beast.
I have a feeling Indians actually ENJOY sex and, the female form. I don't know what it is, just a little hunch.
So, as I was saying, this little exchange, if you will, between my beloved, embarrassed mom-in-law and I is going through my head, and I am thinking, "gosh, should I bring the ugly silwar-chemise that she made for me because it's 'less embarassing' to be seen in it (with or without an Indian bra) than a western style dress?"...and in the same split second, I see a woman, who had been jogging, but she paused and jogged in place at the previously mentioned red light...and she removed her t-shirt to reveal, a very, very skimpy jog bra... and.... my head exploded.
* An Indian bra is kind of like Madonna's "Cone bra" from the early 90s...only not as pointy. They are very flattering and Marilyn Monroe inducing (if you are well endowed).
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Life is a Daring Adventure or Nothing at All
I haven't been posting much - been frantically preparing for a 6 month stint in Taipei. I've told some of you in blogland that my family are moving to Taiwan, temporarily.
My husband is trying to start a new company with one of his company's customers.
So we will live in Taipei from February - August, then, if this new start up is a sure thing, we'll go back sometime in the fall (?) and live there for 1-2 years!
I've been spending alot of time on-line, trying to find a school for Anjoli. I think I found a good one. It's small, in a beautiful area called Yang Ming Shan. It's a very exclusive area - so let's hope we can find affordable housing! I'm sure we will.
When I'm there I plan on studying Mandarin, hopefully taking classes in Chinese Medicine, tai chi and Qi Gong. I also want to take cooking lessons - even if they're given by friends. (We know one family there - they're WONDERFUL people). I'm bringing my guitar and keyboard...I want to take piano lessons along with my daughter. I think I'll have lots of time to study music and finish songs I've started. I hope!
Thank God for this blogging business - 'cuz I'm sure I'll get homesick after a month or so!! I'll be sure to post regularly when I'm there, I promise!
(The above picture is a view from the Su-Hua Highway on the east coast).
Friday, January 06, 2006
Ruminating on Rumi
Don't let your throat tighten
with fear. Take sips of breath
all day and night, before death
closes your mouth.
Pale sunlight,
pale the wall.
Love moves away.
The light changes.
I need more grace
than I thought.
~Rumi
with fear. Take sips of breath
all day and night, before death
closes your mouth.
Pale sunlight,
pale the wall.
Love moves away.
The light changes.
I need more grace
than I thought.
~Rumi
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
O Christmas Tree!
Ok it's not the 12th day of Christmas yet, so I can still post these pictures! It's been hectic around here, so now that the troops are at work and school, I can share these. Our tree was a little crooked, but still pretty!
These are two of my favorite ornaments.Not that I'm vain or anything, but they revolve around, well, ME! The first one was given to me by my roommate when I was a freshman at the University of Rhode Island in 1980 (yikes!). She christened me "swho" because I am a Who freak. The second I bought in Quebec City when my husband and I were living in Montreal back in 1996. We both thought it looked like, um, ME!!! Yeah, I'm such an angel. ;)
These are two of my favorite ornaments.Not that I'm vain or anything, but they revolve around, well, ME! The first one was given to me by my roommate when I was a freshman at the University of Rhode Island in 1980 (yikes!). She christened me "swho" because I am a Who freak. The second I bought in Quebec City when my husband and I were living in Montreal back in 1996. We both thought it looked like, um, ME!!! Yeah, I'm such an angel. ;)
The Wall Part 2
Ta da! Yes, I know all of you have been waiting with baited breath for a follow-up to my "Stripping for Pleasure" post.
Well, my friends, wait no more.
A few weeks ago, our dear friend Scott took us one step closer to creating our dream kitchen by putting up our wallpaper! He did an awesome job. It really looks beautiful. It took a good 4 hours to do (including beer breaks!). He is so patient and meticulous (unlike moi). My kitchen is slowly taking on a bistro look!
You know you have found a true friend when they put wallpaper up for you!
We are very lucky to have a friend like him. THANK YOU SCOTT!!!!
The finished product
Anjoli, her friend Kristen and Kristen's dad, Scott.
The Power of Eternity
I started my New Year with a bang. Yeah! I came home from Boston on New Year's day -a day early because I missed my sweeties so much...
While I was on the plane I set my new watch (I never wear them but Sujoy gave me one for our anniversary) back to central time while I was flying. Ok - so I get to Houston and have to walk five miles to my connecting flight - what a horrible airport. The gates aren't in order - it's very confusing. So anyway, I got to the gate but it was super crowded, so I found a chair, made some phone calls home, then became quite engrossed sending a text message to my friend Laura who I want to get in touch with badly - I missed her call while I was away. So...while waiting, I hear all these calls for Palm Springs over and over...so I went to the desk at the gate and saw "Palm Springs" on the board...OMG, I couldn't believe it - I missed my freakin' flight! Turns out I set my watch 1 hour back instead of two! Duh!! And I was looking at my cell phone and I noticed the time was different, but I thought it was my cell phone that was wrong (yeah that GPS is so unreliable) and not my watch. Oh the ego, Sue! Get over it. I'm never wrong! Nope. That's the Leo in me, I guess.
I never heard the call because the gate was to my left and I have severe hearing loss in my left ear, thanks to Pete Townshend. (Kidding!) I have tinnitus something fierce !
So I flew standby - didn't make it on the first try (they told me I did, then they yanked me off the plane - cruel and unusual punishment! wah!) but the second time I just squeeked in. New Year's Day is INSANE to travel...oh man I was praying like CRAZY that I didn't have to spend the night in the airport.
I owe God big time!
While waiting for my last standby flight I called my sister (yes I set my watch correctly) and I told her that I had our father (who art in the hospital in pretty bad shape) sign a Power of Attorney form. I incorrectly called it a "Power of Eternity" form...and I thought to myself, well, that's a cool slip, because
there really is power in eternity.
I've had a rough year - lost my mom last year, now my dad has cancer. So I've been thinking alot about death and thinking about my life...mistakes I've made, wasting so much time, taking people for granted...I've been in panic mode lately, quite fearful about the future. I'm reading a really great book that's helping me though...It's called the Power of Intention
by Wayne Dyer. He talks about death and the soul, and I believe, as he does, that the soul never dies. We are eternal - and earth is our schoolroom, and we just keep coming back until we get it right - that is, when we learn that we are not separate from God. Knowing that we are eternal makes life in the present much easier, I think. I just can't wait until I get to that place where I no longer worry, because when you realize that your are Divine - worry and fear will no longer exist.
I don't know if that makes sense to anyone, but it does to me!
While I was on the plane I set my new watch (I never wear them but Sujoy gave me one for our anniversary) back to central time while I was flying. Ok - so I get to Houston and have to walk five miles to my connecting flight - what a horrible airport. The gates aren't in order - it's very confusing. So anyway, I got to the gate but it was super crowded, so I found a chair, made some phone calls home, then became quite engrossed sending a text message to my friend Laura who I want to get in touch with badly - I missed her call while I was away. So...while waiting, I hear all these calls for Palm Springs over and over...so I went to the desk at the gate and saw "Palm Springs" on the board...OMG, I couldn't believe it - I missed my freakin' flight! Turns out I set my watch 1 hour back instead of two! Duh!! And I was looking at my cell phone and I noticed the time was different, but I thought it was my cell phone that was wrong (yeah that GPS is so unreliable) and not my watch. Oh the ego, Sue! Get over it. I'm never wrong! Nope. That's the Leo in me, I guess.
I never heard the call because the gate was to my left and I have severe hearing loss in my left ear, thanks to Pete Townshend. (Kidding!) I have tinnitus something fierce !
So I flew standby - didn't make it on the first try (they told me I did, then they yanked me off the plane - cruel and unusual punishment! wah!) but the second time I just squeeked in. New Year's Day is INSANE to travel...oh man I was praying like CRAZY that I didn't have to spend the night in the airport.
I owe God big time!
While waiting for my last standby flight I called my sister (yes I set my watch correctly) and I told her that I had our father (who art in the hospital in pretty bad shape) sign a Power of Attorney form. I incorrectly called it a "Power of Eternity" form...and I thought to myself, well, that's a cool slip, because
there really is power in eternity.
I've had a rough year - lost my mom last year, now my dad has cancer. So I've been thinking alot about death and thinking about my life...mistakes I've made, wasting so much time, taking people for granted...I've been in panic mode lately, quite fearful about the future. I'm reading a really great book that's helping me though...It's called the Power of Intention
by Wayne Dyer. He talks about death and the soul, and I believe, as he does, that the soul never dies. We are eternal - and earth is our schoolroom, and we just keep coming back until we get it right - that is, when we learn that we are not separate from God. Knowing that we are eternal makes life in the present much easier, I think. I just can't wait until I get to that place where I no longer worry, because when you realize that your are Divine - worry and fear will no longer exist.
I don't know if that makes sense to anyone, but it does to me!
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Happy New Year Everyone!
First of all, my apologies for my rant and negativity.
It was very disrespectful, and I was going to delete it, but maybe it's best that I reveal my true self, warts and all. It's not all peace, love and lollipops all the time for any of us, right?
I actually had a good visit with my dad, and my cousin and her boyfriend were so supportive of me. They live in a beautiful house that they built last year in Plymouth, MA on Cape Cod. I stayed with them and my cousin lent me her car. It snowed last night...I DROVE in the snow. OMG California has spoiled me. It was fine - no skidding.
The drive into Boston this morning was SO beautiful. All the bare trees covered with snow. Just heavenly. I love the smell of snow...
My dad is ok - but he contracted a very nasty staph infection from an IV that was inserted incorrectly...and it's awful because he complained about pain and swelling early on, but his concerns were ignored (natch) and it wasn't addressed until the infection got out control and his hand ballooned. So he's angry and I don't blame him. Staph is highly resitant to antibiotics, so now they're playing the "let's try this antiobiotic" game - he's on a second one for 2 weeks. It really worries me, because antiobiotics wipe out all the good bacteria and before you know it your're looking at infection after infection...and his liver is already compromised. It's pretty scary. And he can't re-start his treatment until the infection clears. The first round of treatment was effective - the tumor responded to it, so that's hopeful. They used a biological agent instead of chemo, so that made me feel good. I know chemo is helpful, but I have mixed feelings about it. It can destroy the immune system, as everyone knows, so many people die from infections, rather than the cancer itself.
I wish he would consider alternative or rather, "complementary" natural therapy, but he won't have any of it. Oh well.
He was happy that I came and I took care of him as best I could - went shopping for pjs and slippers, etc (those johnnys are hideous!). He was thrilled. He kept saying the slippers I bought him were "sexy!" hmm... I even bought a toe nail clipper and scissors and clipped his toenails (YUCK! but I used surgical gloves). So that makes up for my mean post, right?
He's a pain in the butt, but he's actually a good patient. He just talks too much and asks a million questions. I'm sure he drives most of the nurses crazy!
I wasn't able to talk to his doctor (or any doctor). His oncologist was away - but she'll be back today, I think, so I'll know more in a day or two.
I'm flying back today...one day early. They're supposed to get more snow and I don't want to get stuck here - my daughter has a school performance this Wednesday and I can't miss that! Plus I'm volunteering in the Green Room -that should be fun!
I wish only good things to all of you...and if you are lucky enough to have healthy parents, give them lots of hugs!
It was very disrespectful, and I was going to delete it, but maybe it's best that I reveal my true self, warts and all. It's not all peace, love and lollipops all the time for any of us, right?
I actually had a good visit with my dad, and my cousin and her boyfriend were so supportive of me. They live in a beautiful house that they built last year in Plymouth, MA on Cape Cod. I stayed with them and my cousin lent me her car. It snowed last night...I DROVE in the snow. OMG California has spoiled me. It was fine - no skidding.
The drive into Boston this morning was SO beautiful. All the bare trees covered with snow. Just heavenly. I love the smell of snow...
My dad is ok - but he contracted a very nasty staph infection from an IV that was inserted incorrectly...and it's awful because he complained about pain and swelling early on, but his concerns were ignored (natch) and it wasn't addressed until the infection got out control and his hand ballooned. So he's angry and I don't blame him. Staph is highly resitant to antibiotics, so now they're playing the "let's try this antiobiotic" game - he's on a second one for 2 weeks. It really worries me, because antiobiotics wipe out all the good bacteria and before you know it your're looking at infection after infection...and his liver is already compromised. It's pretty scary. And he can't re-start his treatment until the infection clears. The first round of treatment was effective - the tumor responded to it, so that's hopeful. They used a biological agent instead of chemo, so that made me feel good. I know chemo is helpful, but I have mixed feelings about it. It can destroy the immune system, as everyone knows, so many people die from infections, rather than the cancer itself.
I wish he would consider alternative or rather, "complementary" natural therapy, but he won't have any of it. Oh well.
He was happy that I came and I took care of him as best I could - went shopping for pjs and slippers, etc (those johnnys are hideous!). He was thrilled. He kept saying the slippers I bought him were "sexy!" hmm... I even bought a toe nail clipper and scissors and clipped his toenails (YUCK! but I used surgical gloves). So that makes up for my mean post, right?
He's a pain in the butt, but he's actually a good patient. He just talks too much and asks a million questions. I'm sure he drives most of the nurses crazy!
I wasn't able to talk to his doctor (or any doctor). His oncologist was away - but she'll be back today, I think, so I'll know more in a day or two.
I'm flying back today...one day early. They're supposed to get more snow and I don't want to get stuck here - my daughter has a school performance this Wednesday and I can't miss that! Plus I'm volunteering in the Green Room -that should be fun!
I wish only good things to all of you...and if you are lucky enough to have healthy parents, give them lots of hugs!
Saturday, December 17, 2005
Happy Holidays to all you lovely bloggers!
Enjoy yourselves, make merry while ye can and have a safe and wonderful season!
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Happy Horrordaze!
This Santa is either wasted or deaf. Maybe a little of both!!!
Ok I feel just like this little girl. Christmas shouldn't scare me, but it does!
I need to send my presents and cards! Why does it always creep up on you?
I am not in the spirit at all. Something is just off about Christmas in California. It will never feel like Christmas to me, no matter how many lights or cheezy decorations I see (and in California, we only get the extra cheezy supreme decorations!).
I miss New England...alot.
Poor poor Sue in the 70 degree weather. (Actually, it's a chilly 64 degrees during the day now).
Once we get a tree, I'll be much more chipper, I think!
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Liberty Cabbage
Liberty Cabbage*
by Rufus Wainwright
Sometimes I think You're trying to kill me
With your stars and stripes
And sometimes, sometimes your Liberty Cabbage goes dry
But still your arms are strong
Your blood runs furies inside me.
Cities of gold, mountains of purple,
Hot dogs and hamburgers eaten on your laps,
While you sit and watch them kill me with their stars and stripes
And sometimes, sometimes your liberty cabbage goes dry
But tears do flow from those eyes blue as the Pacific
Your table cloths checkered as chessboards
And your smile is wider than the Continental Drift
But why do you,
Why do you sit and let them stone my friends and loved ones?
Sometimes I think you're trying to kill me
With your stars and strips
And sometimes, sometimes I think you might succeed
Click to hear Liberty Cabbage ~ Rufus Wainwright
*Liberty Cabbage was the alternative name created during World War I, used to refer to Sauerkraut, to avoid using words from the enemy’s language. A hamburger was referred to as a 'Liberty Sandwich,' and German Measles were 'Liberty Measles.'
And the silliness continued...with "Freedom Fries."
(This is the first song that Rufus had written - he was still a teenager when he wrote it. He's speaking of prejudice and violence against gays, but I think it can be understood on many levels).
by Rufus Wainwright
Sometimes I think You're trying to kill me
With your stars and stripes
And sometimes, sometimes your Liberty Cabbage goes dry
But still your arms are strong
Your blood runs furies inside me.
Cities of gold, mountains of purple,
Hot dogs and hamburgers eaten on your laps,
While you sit and watch them kill me with their stars and stripes
And sometimes, sometimes your liberty cabbage goes dry
But tears do flow from those eyes blue as the Pacific
Your table cloths checkered as chessboards
And your smile is wider than the Continental Drift
But why do you,
Why do you sit and let them stone my friends and loved ones?
Sometimes I think you're trying to kill me
With your stars and strips
And sometimes, sometimes I think you might succeed
Click to hear Liberty Cabbage ~ Rufus Wainwright
*Liberty Cabbage was the alternative name created during World War I, used to refer to Sauerkraut, to avoid using words from the enemy’s language. A hamburger was referred to as a 'Liberty Sandwich,' and German Measles were 'Liberty Measles.'
And the silliness continued...with "Freedom Fries."
(This is the first song that Rufus had written - he was still a teenager when he wrote it. He's speaking of prejudice and violence against gays, but I think it can be understood on many levels).
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