Went Chattanooga

Today, CT works from 12 mid - 8am. So, he came back at 8am after work, bathed, had breakfast and then, he would usu sleep till 5pm. But this time round, he can have a proper dinner outside before leaving for work.

So, when he came home this morning and rested, I went out with Kok Fong, Gek Teng (his wife) and Jaimie to Chattanooga, Tennessee. It is their off days. They have about 6 off days consecutive-very long holiday. CT asked me to go out with them since he would only be sleeping and he cannot accompany me. So, I might as well go out sightseeing with them.

It was about an hour and a half drive, almost 2 hours because of jam. We da bao KFC up the Lookout Mountains to have lunch there.We went to Ruby Falls and Rock City at the Lookout Mountain. Ruby Falls is located in the limestone layer of the mountain. We have to enter this cave to see the water falls which is inside the cave. I saw many different types of formations found in the Ruby Falls cave. The most common are stalactites, stalagmites, columns, drapes, and flowstone. These formations are caused by water containing minerals, such as calcium carbonate, dripping down from the ceiling.

The truly amazing feature of the Lookout Mountain caves is not the many and varied formations which I saw, but rather in the large vertical shaft at the end of the main passage. A flowing underground stream falls from the very top of this shaft 145 feet into a pool on the floor of the cave. The tour guide led us inside to a very dark part of the cave and then, all of a sudden, the lights came on and we saw the waterfall in the cave. Awesome.


After looking at Ruby Falls (Ruby because it is named after the founder's wife), we went to Rock City which is also situated in lookout mountain-all within the same area but still have to drive higher up the mountain.

Rock City is a truemarvel of nature featuring massive ancient rockformations, gardens with over 400 native plant species,and breathtaking "See 7 States" panoramic views.

After walking about an hour plus in Rock City, we went home. Reached home at about 5 plus pm and CT was still sleeping. Ha.

Then, we went out for dinner with the rest of his colleagues to "Olive Garden"-an Italian Restaurant. The food is very yummy. I had a shrimp pasta with herbs. The pasta looks like wanton mee-very thin. SO, when my food came, everyone said, wow..wanton mee ah..I said, yeah..I wish..

A lot of people da bao the food as it was too much. We even had appetisers and soup/salad and free bread. So, even before we ate our main dish, we were all so full. I could not finish my prawn pasta even though it is very nice. So, CT had good food for his supper tonight at work.

CT left at 1040pm for work. He slept right after dinner before he left for about an hour plus. I am amazed at how he can still sleep.

Today, had a great day touring. However, it reminds me of my family as I was supposed to go Ruby Falls and Rock City with my parents when they came to visit me. It is just one of those things that trigger your memory and reminds you of it and makes your heart ache a little. I do miss my family and wish my dad will be off the ventilator completely...for good.

Different shift

This morning, me and Gek Teng waited for him to come back and bathe first before we went down for breakfast together. As usual, CT would talk about his work and what he did that night. He seems to be more busy than the rest during his shift.

There is not much update on Dennis already and I heard from my church friend in Mobile. She told me that Mobile just had like a thunderstorm and rain. Nothing much happened. Really thank God. No wonder He assured me to just have faith in Him and leave everything to Him.

Today, did not do much. As usual, when CT is sleeping after breakfast, I would turn the volume of my TV down and just do my own stuff. Played computer game today and read newspapers while he slept.

After he woke up at about 5 plus pm, we met for dinner at 7pm with the rest. We went to "Outback Steakhouse" near our apartment. It is my second time there to the same restaurant. Ordered a 9 oz steak, while CT ordered fish. He was sick of steak already. Jaimie could not finish, so she da bao the food and gave to CT for his night shift. His shift is midnight to 8am (8 hours). So, it is much better. At least he can eat dinner at more decent hours.

Here are some pics of my hotel room..

THE SMALL KITCHEN

THE LIVING AREA

THE BED

CT's night shift

For the past 2 days- yesterday and today, CT's work is from 8pm to 8am. This kind of timing makes the whole body system topsy turvy. He has dinner at 530pm, and left at 630pm as he needs to be there an hour early to report. Then when he comes back atabout 830am, he has his buffet breakfast in hotel and sleeps right through till 5pm and again, he wakes up for dinner. I have to pack sandwiches for him when he goes to work. When he eats dinner at night, it is considered his breakfast. And when he comes home, it is considered his dinner. So, it is quite strange as I do not know whether I should stay up with him and be on night shift mode as well or not.

But anyway, I didnt but I do sleep later. I sleep at about 1 plus am. Actually, whenever I was tired. And I would wake up at 8am and wait for him to come back to have breakfast together. Yesterday and today, I have been cooking. The first day, it was just chicken stew with rice. While today, I cooked chicken ginseng soup, fried luncheon meat and lettuce with mushrooms.

I have to try to cook more soupy and gravy stuff as there is a smoke detector just in my kitchen and it went off before. So, I was afraid it would go off again as it comes off a sharp and irritating sound. And that time it went off, all I did was to open the dish washer which I have not used it. SO, there were no steam at all. I just opened it to check whether my utensils are inside. Then, immediately, when the sound went off, I got a phone call from the receptionist asking me if I was smoking. Ha.. I said no and I did not even do anything...not even cooking at that time. So, they sent a maintenance guy to check it out and I thought he would fiddle with the detector to check. But all he did was just talk to us and asked us what we did and he just left. Oh boy..

So now, quite afraid it would go off again. So, when I cook, I make sure my ventilator is turned up high and i blow the steam towards another direction. :)

Tonight, I watched this show on HBO. Quite funny. It is called, "The Anchorman-the legend of Roy Burgundy." Ok, I know the title does not sound nice but it is quite funny about this guy who is a sexist and he reports on stories. Then one day, the company brought in a lady to be a co-anchorman with him and his struggles that he faces.

So, when CT is off at work, I would watch TV and channel surf...till I am tired. In some way, I get to see him more as I will see him once I wake up but on the other hand, I can see him more but he cannot spend more time with me as he will be sleeping. However, his working hours are not the same for 3 weeks. He will do night shift for 2 nights only. Then, his time will change to 12 midnight-8am for another 2 nights. Then he will have 2 days of off days and then, day shift from 8am to 8pm..and somedays, 8am-4pm. Then he will also have 6 days of off week after next..and he ends off with more night shifts from 8am to 8pm.

So, his schedule changes and it is tough for him to switch here and there. It is like jetlag...time difference.

Hurricane Dennis

Recently, there has been a lot of news about Hurricane Dennis that has hit Cuba and will be moving up to Florida and Mobile already,which is where I stay. I stay just by the Gulf of Mexico, in the south. Most of us were worried as we still had a lot of things in our apartment and last year's hurricane Ivan hit the apartment and they had to rebuild it. So, it was bad. The news have been covering the storm 24 hours and it seems to be moving very fast and bigger than the last hurricane. So, most of us were thinking, "That's it..we will prob go back to no apartment." The hurricane seems to be moving like 200 over km/h...and has killed people in Cuba.

Last night, I was thinking of the souvenirs and the clothes I still have back home. And also my guitar. Just as I was worried, I did my quiet time and read my daily bread-this small book that gives you bible reading day by day. So yesterday's reading was on the book of Matthew 6:25-34. Here goes..

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you wil wear. Is not life more important that food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to this life?

And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ' What shall we eat?' or ' What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things wil be given to you as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. "

Then in the daily bread, not only are there daily readings to do, they will have a short write up in relation to the passage. So, after reading the bible, I read the daily bread book and it says<" Do you worry about money? We are to be careful with money, but Jesus taught that we are not to be full of care about it. If you have put your faith in the Lord, you don't have to worry about life's neccessities. God Himself has assumed responsibility for your food and clothing-and all your needs."

When I was reading, at once, a sudden peace engulfed me and I just knew God was assuring me. If not, why so timely? Just as I was thinking about my clothes and my possessions back home, getting worried that it will be destroyed. Here, the daily bread reading was on this so appropriate passage. I shared it with CT and also told him not to worry as it is only earthly possessions and money.

CT's first day of work at the Tennessee plant

This morning, CT left at 7am for work. He will be meeting his colleagues and a manager for breakfast and he will have a day of orientation. After today, all of them will be on shift work, which means there will be some days he will work very late or at wee hours. I do not really like that idea of working at such strange hours because it upsets the whole body cycle. But I guess there are always things in life we do not want to do, but have to do or should do.

I stayed awake after CT left and waited for a good time to have breakfast with Gek Teng cos I know she would prob be still sleeping. So, I waited till 830am to call her and yup, she was still sleeping. After my call, she called Celine to ask her out for breakfast as well but she wanted her beauty sleep and would rather skip breakfast. So, anyway, me and Gek Teng met and had breakfast. It was a small buffet breakfast with scrambled eggs, beef patties, bread, DIY waffles.

After breakfast, we went to check out the swimming pool, gym and jacuzzi. Then, we also found the laundry room where we have to put coins in the washing machine and dryer. After that, I went to Gek Teng's room to take a look. Her room is much brighter as she has a big window beside her bed while my room does not have. So, my bed area is quite dark. I prefer windows as I like my rooms bright..as it makes a room more lively and cheerful.

After a while, went back to my room and did the usual stuff like email, watch TV etc.. CT came home very early at about 5pm. And he came home stinking cos his plant is very smelly...smells like chicken farm..He kept asking me to smell him..yucks..

We got ready and went out at 530pm for Walmart grocery shopping. I brought along my sauces and some dried food to cook as I did not want to spend my 3 weeks here eating out. Too unhealthy. After grocery shopping, we went to a fine restaurant called, "Connor's" . It is a steak and seafood place. A place with dim lights and ambience...but with all our dressing, I felt embarrased as we were wearing slippers and shorts. Ha..

The main dish costs about US$20-US$30. I ordered only a salad as I have to pay for my own meals. CT ordered more so that we can share. He ordered a lobster bisque soup and prime rib steak. The salad was fabulous. I have been enjoying eating salad here as the veggies are fresh and the feeling after eating salad is good, makes me feel very healthy. Hehe.. My salad has bacon, meshed egg and nuts with balsamic vinagarette. Very nice.

Off to Knoxville, Tennessee

This morning, woke up and made hotdogs for breakfast. After that, we set off for Tennessee at 9am. We met at a common spot for 2 other cars. Anthony and his girlfriend who just came will be sitting with us in our car. We went in 3 cars with 9 pple in total. Our first stop was a rest area at Greenville, Alabama. We stopped there for a toilet break. Drove about 2 hours to reach. Anthony then took over the wheel so that CT can rest.

Drove for another 2 and a half hours to a place for lunch at Alabama. Had mexican food which was very nice. I always thought mexican food all tastes the same..but CT ordered this hot plate dish that tasted nice. All meals by CT and his colleagues are being paid by company since this is considered a business trip. So, most of them ordered the most expensive dish on the menu.

After lunch, CT took over again and we drove to a visitor centre at Tennessee to get whatever brochures and maps we need, as well as to rest. It was also about 2 plus hours. Then the last leg was to the hotel already. So altogether, we took about 8 hours of driving to our destination. We are staying at the Residence Inn (Marriott). The room is smaller than I expected but it is ok as it is clean and has facilities. There is a very small kitchen in the room and a small dining table just enough for 2.

After settling down and unpacking our stuff, I bathed and waited for call from the colleagues as Anthony went to collect his rental car from the airport and will call us once he has collected it so that we can all go for dinner. We only managed to have our dinner at 9pm. I was starving. We had a fabulous dinner at a Japanese Restaurant. It was teppanyaki style and the chef was very skilled in juggling the knives right in front of us and doing all sorts of tricks with the food and knives. We were all so scared the knives would fly out and hit us. The food was quite yummy that I finished everything very quickly while the rest were still struggling to finish. :p

The boss of the restaurant is a Chinese from Malaysia and most of the chefs come from Indonesia or Malaysia. So, I felt like home esp when some of them spoke to the waitresses and chefs in Malay and spoke to the boss in Hokkien. CT ordered the most expensive one with lobster,fillet mignon,scallops,prawns,veggies,fried rice. Very tasty.

Oh, initially, the chef litted up the whole hot plate with oil and lit up the whole plate on fire..It was a performance. There were mini fireworks as well..

Check out the food we ate..yum yum..



In this picture, from right to left:
My empty plate and seat, CT, Gek Teng, Kok Fong(Gek Teng's husband), Jamie with a very full plate, Anthony, Celine (Anthony's gf)...etc.. (there are 2 more colleagues being blocked- JS and James).

The horrible part of this dinner was that I just bathed and I left the place stinking of the smoke and oil. Sigh...

Flight back to Mobile

Woke up this morning at 330am. Planned to leave at 4am as our flight is 530am. There will not be a jam early in the morning, so we could go there at least one hour before the flight. Hsiang Ling woke up to send us to the airport. Really sweet of her. We told her we could catch a cab but she said it is ok. So, we left the place at 4am and reached about 430am. We said our goodbyes again and it was strange to go back to the same airport again.

Anyway, when we went in, there was a very long queue. SO, we did the express check in but inserting the credit card and we are glad to see our names appear which means the flight is not cancelled. So, the computer printed our boarding passes for the entire trip. We will be going Atlanta first and then one houre transit back to New Orleans.

The flight was quite nice even though there was no satellite radio. The flight to Chicago, there was satellite radio on board the plane. I could just use my MP3 earphones and plug it in and can choose about 300 different channels. Real awesome. But this time round, there isnt..so I just spent the time reading and sleeping. Each flight, there will be snacks (only biscuits) and drinks.

We finally reached New Orleans at about 1030am. We boarded the AVIS shuttle bus back to our car and when we went onto the bus, someone called us. We got a shock, wondering who it was. It was Tee, CT's colleague. He just flew in from Washington. We were happy to have met him as we did not how to go from the car rental area back to the highway.

We finally reached back home at 1 pluspm. Went to pump gas and then went to "Purple Cafe" for lunch. It is cafe that is less than 5 mins away from my place. Just opposite my place but yet, we need to drive because there are no pedestrian crossings..so even though if we want to walk, it is highly dangerous. So that is why we are not used to walking and had problems during our first day in Chicago.

Purple cafe serves Lebanese, Greek food. Very nice. I had a sheesh kabob pita bread with salad...while CT had a beef with spices in pita bread and a soup. Each person is about US$6 plus tax. So, it is quite reasonable. Initially, the first few days in US, I would think that it is expensive..but we have gotten used to it. Less than US$10 is considered reasonable already.

After lunch, we found out that CT's work has been pushed back...so we could spend a night in Mobile first before driving off the next morning at 9am. We were very happy and thankful that our prayers has been answered-that everything has been taken care of and planned for us already. So, we went home and started packing for our Tennessee trip. We were tired and wanted to go sleep but cannot cos we have to wait till night.

We stayed home for dinner. Cooked maggi mee, added egg and ham. After dinner, we finished up our packing and went straight to bed. Tired..

What a rushed day!

This morning, we woke up at 8am and had our rice dumplings for breakfast. So filling but yummy as I have not eaten for so so long. After that, HL came home as she went to drop Joan off to work. Then, we took the train to the place where the cruise was. The cruise boat leaves at 10am and we were still in the train at about 945am. So, once we left the train, we ran to the boat area. The train station is many blocks away from the river..so we had to hurry.

Reached the boat at 955am. Ha..just in time. Thank God there were seats for us as well at a good place on top of the boat. It is an architectural cruise as the tour guide will tell us all about most of the buildings in chicago as the boat travels on the river , through the city. It was an interesting tour as Chicago has many beautiful buildings. The weather, though hot, was perfect for photography. Take a look at some interesting buildings.


















"Circular" IBM Building Curves on Citibank Building Interesting glass building

After the cruise, we wet for lunch at UNO Pizzeria place for Chicago's deep dish pizza. We ordered an express lunch which includes an indiv portion of deep dish pizza and one soup or salad. Costs about US$5.50 per person..so very reasonable and it is quick serving. The lunch was very filling. Then, we arranged to meet Hsiang Ling at 1pm outside the Museum of Contemporary Art.

The museum is interesting but the shop in it is even more interesting. They have a lot of interesting things and books which just captivates you. There is this board which me and CT played for a while. It is actually chinese brush dipped into water and when you write, te paper gets wet but the words you write will slowly surface after a short while. Then. the words will disappear once the water dries up.



It is interesting and good for kids to practise writing with chinese brush and it saves you the hastle from cleaning up your hands when most of the time, the ink has made your hands dirty. In this case, it is just water. And also, you can keep on practising without wasting paper. Ha..However, the items sold in the shop are very expensive...so did not buy it.







Here is a picture which I took in the museum. Quite interesting as well. It is a bulb and filament tube.. The flower in the bulb is litted up..

It reminds me of the Beauty and the Beast story where the flower is kept in the glass..so pretty..

Another one which I thought it is interesting is how the artists use scraps like can,paper from the streets to make a sculpture.




After spending lots of time looking especially at the 2-storey shop which sells very interesting things, we headed back to train station and went back. Oh, in the shop, there is also this book that teaches you the safest thing to do. E.g they will tell you where is the safests level to stay in a hotel, where is the safest place to sit in an air plane etc..so many of the safest things in the book..so interesting.

They say the safest place to stay in hotel is between 4-7 storey. Why? Because if lower than 4,the robbers can easily go into your room and take your things as the lower floors have more people. Not safe to be higher than 7 because in case of a fire, the fireman ladder cannot reach higher than 7 storeys..as it is not long enough. Ha..Interesting right?

The book also says which location of hotel is the safest. They say hotels near airports are safest because most customers would be businessmen and so, the security and technology will be most up-to-date. And they also offer more explanations which I cannot remember.

Ok, when we went home, I quickly bathed as I will only reach back Mobile at 12 midnight. So, had to take a shower. Then, HL drove us to the airport. There was a jam along the highway which was quite bad. Our flight was 520pm and it was already 430pm. We were panicking a bit. Then, while we were reaching, HL told us to stretch our legs for the run. Ha.. She said that she is notorious for having her name called through the PA system. Goodness. She said that still, she always made it in time. So, when we reached, we did an express check in just by inserting credit card into the machine and they will detect your flights and print out your tickets. Usually, takes us only 5 mins to do that and there is no queue for that. However, they could not find our flights when we inserted the card. So we had to go to the counter to check and then, the gal at the counter told us that our flight from Atlanta to New Orleans had been cancelled due to heavy storm or maybe a hurricane. We can still fly to Atlanta but no use cos we have to pay for accomodation which the airlines refused to pay since it is weather-something the airline cannot control. So, we called HL and told her and she drove back to pick us up. So, we booked the earliest flight tomorrow to Atlanta and then to New Orleans.

What a day! So HL came back to pick us up and then we went to pick Joan up from work as it was 6pm already. It was a joke and all we could do was just laugh it off! We said we missed Chicago that we wanted to stay one more night.

We put our bags down and went out for dinner at an Indian restaurant. Joan brought his own wine to drink and celebrate our return. Ha. The food was very nice and there were a lot of rice! Enjoyed it very much. We had curry chicken, green curry fish which was amazingly good and fresh as well as curry vegs.

On our way back to our apartment, during the walk, we actually saw fire flies flying!! Me and CT got so excited as just recently we were talking about how we have not seen fire flies in our entire lives, but only on love shows on TV where the guy would take the girl out in the field to see fireflies and catch for her. So, we were jokingly saying that we are glad we stayed over for one more night. Ha..I kept fanning the flies to scare them as they would only lit up when they panic..I felt so bad but I really wanted them to light up! :)

We had to sleep right after dinner as our flight was 530am the next day. I spent my extra night here in Chicago washing our dirty clothes at the house since once we reach back New Orleans, we need to drive back to Mobile and we may need to go Tennessee on the same day for CT's work. So, we may not have time to wash. So, we made use of the extra night to wash and dry. It is easy cos there is dryer-something which I will miss when we go back Singapore. It is so useful as within one and a half hours, you can get your clothes all washed and dried. CT was busy making phone calls back to his colleagues and boss to let them know as initially, we were supposed to car pool and go to Tennessee together at 9am..but we would only reach Mobile at 1plus pm. So, our plan was to reach mobile and quickly pack and leave for Tennessee at 2pm and reach Knoxville Tennessee at about 10pm as it is about 8 hours drive.

CT was saying how tired he would be..one whole day of travelling and driving as since his flight is delayed, he would be the only one driving. Initially, Anthony was supposed to sit with us, then they can rotate drivers. So, before we slept, as usual, we prayed and ask God to give us strength and help us sort everything out and allow our flight tomorrow to be smooth.

Independence Day

Today is a public holiday because of Independence Day. Woke up at 8plus am, had cereals. Joan and HL was not awake yet. So, me and CT were like wondering what to do. CT went to read a book at the living room, while I went to check on the computer to find out whether the museums were opened today or not. The Museum of Contemporary Art was closed. That was the museum we wanted to go because we had the museum pass which HL borrowed from the library.

The museums in Chicago have to pay but it can be free if you are able to borrow the museum pass from the library..and the pass allows 4 people to enter free. So, HL usually borrows them and so, museums in Chicago can be considered free. Was reading the newspapers and playing Joan's guitar till about 950am. By that time, they were awake already and so, we left about that time to go to John Hancock Tower to pick up a friend, Woonwah. She is from Hong Kong but has been in Chicago for 13 years alr, working. After picking her up, we went to Chinatown. It is very huge as there are a lot of Asians here in Chicago. We went to a restaurant called Phoenix which serves very good Tim Sum. The place is crowded with many pple waiting for the turn to sit. And the pple waiting are Asians..so it must be good.

We had to wait half an hour for our seat and so, we decided to go walk around first while Woonwah waited for the seats. So,we walked along the older part of chinatown and there were so many interesting shops. Went to a bakery to buy rice dumplings, lo mai kai and egg tarts. Spoke to the person in Cantonese..felt like home..haha..

After that, we went back to the restaurant and I was surprised as Woonwah invited her friends as well..about 4 more. They are either from China or Taiwan and were working in Chicago as well. The tim sum food was fabulous. I must say the char siew bao is very nice and fluffy...just like back home. I also ordered my fav chicken feet. The chef must be from HK..enjoyed the brunch.. :) After eating till about 1pm plus, Joan dropped Woonwah back to her office as she needed to work while he dropped us at Tourist Info Centre for our sightseeing and arranged to meet back home at 7pm for our last dinner before we go back tomorrow.

We first went into the Tourist Info Centre for more brochures and map of the area. Then, we walked to Millenium Park. It is a very nice architectural park with modern designs. Love the park. Then in an area of the park, there is a place to dip your legs and cool down. So, that was what I did as the weather was a bit hot today.

After that, we walked along Michigan Ave, which the most happening road like Orchard Road, to the river cruise tour booth to buy tickets for cruise tomorrow morning. It was drizzling while we were walking which def made the surroundings cooler. After buying tickets for cruise tomorrow at 10am, we walked to this building called, "The American Girl's Place". We went to this place because HsiangLing(HL) said we have to go to this place to see it for ourselves. This place will make your jaw drop and give you more insight to what America is like.

Ok, basically, this place has 3 storeys and it is actually a doll shop. What is so special about this shop is not only one doll costs more than 100 over bucks US, but you can has a whole range of clothes for you to mix n match clothes for your doll..not only that, you can wear what your doll wears too! So, they have clothes for humans to match the same clothes as your doll. How crazy is that? Not only that, there is a saloon in the shop for your doll. You bring your doll to the saloon to get her hair fix. So, the hairdresser will sit your doll on this cute little doll barber chair and start doing a hairstyle for your doll according to what you like. So, what me and CT actually saw is this hairdresser tying up the doll's hair nicely...I like the cute little chairs for the doll to sit and relax. It is also amazing to see how not only the excitement of the girls in the shop but also their parents!

The place was crowded..There is also a cafe inside where they have special doll seat for your doll...haha..Check out the website to learn more. http://www.americangirl.com/

They have different storeys for different time-present dolls and the past dolls. The picture on top is about the past where the dressing is all old fashioned dressing and of red indians..very interesting. It was an eye opener..seriously.

After walking there, we went to Borders to take shelter and just sit down somewhere with books to read since it was still drizzling. So after reading a while, we went opposite which was Hershey's building. The shop sells all types of hershey chocolate. Very interesting. I bought some chocolate for friends.After that, we made our way to Navy Pier which was quite far away. But I was quite used to walking already,unlike the first day when I arrived.

Navy Pier is a very nice place where is situated along the Lake..one whole stretch. It has the children's museum and lots of other amusement games like ferris wheel, carousel etc.. Me and CT sat the ferris wheel for US$2.50 each as we made use of a coupon we had-half price. It will take you very high up to see the skyline. It is a slow moving wheel just to admire the scenery.

After that, we just walked along the whole stretch of the pier. Then, took the free trolley (bus) to train station so that we can take train back home. When we reached back, Joan and HL was not back yet, so we decided to walk around their house to see the shops. After walking one round, we thought that if they not back yet, we would call them..then just as we were reaching back, I turned around and saw them walking behind us. They did not even know they were walking behind us. ha.

We reached home, bathed and got changed to go to a Spanish Restaurant near by. When HL says it is nearby, it is a different kind of nearby as to her, walking one km is near. Ha..But yeah, have been trained these few days here in Chicago already. Moreover, the weather was nice and cooling as the rain had stopped. The Spanish food at Cafe Babareeba was fabulous. We had paella which we all shared, Sangria wine drink and tapas. Tapas is like Spanish tim sum. They will come in small servings. We ordered 5 tapas which was all different kind. It was very nice.

After a full meal, we had a nice walk back to our apartment. While we were walking back, we heard sounds of fireworks. It seems that there is another round of fireworks today. So, we hurried back to see if we can view from the apartment roof top. So, we went and could see a bit of fireworks from there. Then, it started drizzling and we all went in but HL was still so excited to see that she stayed. Then. we said, scarly you sick ah..then she said, "sick lah..also no work what." haha...cos she is also like me, accompanying her husband here..so she was nonchalent about what will happen to her cos she does not need to take leave and has lots of time to rest and recuperate. However, the way she said it was so funny cos it sounded real shiok...no worries...bo chup kind of attitude.

Had a fruitful day of sightseeing today before we fly back tomorrow.

Another day of walking!

This morning, woke up at 745am and went church at 830am to help the people to inflate helium into the balloons for the Independence Day concert in church today at 4pm. Went to Hsiang Ling's church (The Moody Church). After helping till 930am, we went to the sanctuary to wait for the service to start. The service started at 950am. We were sitted early and there was this African-American guy who came up to talk to us and was very very friendly. He was asking us where we come from and whether it is our first time in this church. He was all smiles and encouraging us. Very cute. He is about 70 over years old but with such energy coming out from him, you would think he is 50 years old. Hsiang Ling and Joan was involved in the choir, so they did not sit with us.

After service, me and CT went for sightseeing. We walked to Lincoln Park and went in the park, there is a farm zoo. Very interesting with farm animals and educational as well as they will explain the process of farming etc. The pigs in the farm were very big and fat. Take a look!

Anyway, after that, was starving.So,we went nearby for lunch first as I was starving. I had a Chicago hot dog. It is basically a hot dog with lots of pickles..quite colourful. CT had a burger. After filling my stomach, we went to the Lincoln Park main zoo. Why?Because it is free!! haha.. Hsiang Ling told us that it is good. So, we went and yup, it is big and has funny animals. Funny in the sense that it looks wierd. Some never see before. After walking so much, went to a conservatory greenhouse to see plants and flowers. They have so many diff species and wierd looking plants. Very interesting. There was also an orchid house with lots of interesting species of orchids. Outside the observatory, someone was having a wedding. So, it was quite a sight.



After walking so long, I told CT that I did not want to go back into the zoo as I was getting tired. So, though we have not walked the whole zoo, we went to our next destination which was the beach. So we crossed over the bridge to the beach and boy, there were like millions of ants!! (oops..i meant, humans). The whole beach was crowded with people and they were all exercising or suntanning. Very interesting mix of people in chicago. There were some BBQ-ing as well.

When we walked along the beach, I was telling CT how diff Chicago is compared to Mobile,Alabama. In Chicago, everyone seems to be so active and working out, with much better bodies than in the South. Ha.. In Mobile, there are so many overweight people as the buffet is so cheap. In Chicago, I did not see any buffet places and so many people are exercising in the beach. Our beach in Mobile, though the sand is so white and the water is clearer, the people there are only sunbathing...and swimming. That's all. Ha..slack.

After the long walk along the beach, we walked back to church for the Indep Day celebration. Joan and HsiangLing has been in church whole day as they will be singing in the celebration. Went back to church early to get a seat. The celebration was being broadcast in satellite. There was the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performing as well and there were singing and video presentations..I truly enjoyed the celebration esp one part of the concert where during the song, when the video shows the company you were from, you must stand up. So, they will show army, marines, etc on the projector and when they show where you were from, you stand up proudly and everyone will clap. I feel very touched because of how proud they are of their country and after the celebration, you just feel that America is really blessed.

After the celebration, there was an ice cream party held in church...for free. So, we had lots of ice cream scoops. CT was busy trying all the flavours and eating. Ha..

After eating, HsiangLing took the balloons to distribute to the kids but there were too many. So Hsiang Ling was so tempted to take all the balloons and let it go as she said she has always been wishing to let go balloons to the sky..So, she was pretty excited while she collected all the balloons together.

So, finally, we all counted down for the balloons to be let go to the sky. And finally when the balloons flown, everyone was clapping.Ha.. I could see how happy Hsiang Ling is..

After church service, we went back to change out. We decided to eat pizza on rooftop of their apartment and just enjoy the time together. So, Joan and HsiangLing went to get pizza.

The pizza was not as good as we all expected but the time spent with our friends is more important that the food. We had a good time talking and just enjoying the breeze.

You can see the picture taken at the rooftop on the right.

After eating,we rushed to the train station to go and see the fireworks. The fireworks is being displayed at Lake Michigan and the train station was so crowded. The fireworks was played according to the Symphony Orchestra Band. There were so many kinds of fireworks..even those that is multi coloured and some that came out American Flag colours..very interesting. Some fireworks were like raining down to us.

It was a 20 mins show and the Orchestra played many songs and each time when the song was about to finish, it was like a finale of spectacular fireworks.

After the show, we walked back to the station and while we were walking, there were people playing with fireworks as well. There are fireworks shops in US where you can buy them off the stall. So, it is easily available.

When we reached the train station, there were so many pple squeezing and lining up that we had to walk to another station to take the train. It was a long ride back as the train stopped because it was simply too crowded at one station that there was a jam. Goodness.

Went home aching terribly on my legs that I had to keep massaging them. Haha..

Off to Chicago, Illinois

Today, woke up at 230am to drive to New Orleans Intl Airport for thr flight to Chicago. Left home at 245am and made our way there. It was about 2 and a half hour drive to the airport. Taking the flight from there is much cheaper than my own regional airport-about 100 US cheaper..so we'd rather drive all the way there to take the flight. Drove to the Avis car rental area and had to take a shuttle bus to the airport. Reached the place at about 5 plus am. It was way too early.


Went to the gate, sat down and ate sandwiches which I made for breakfast. Our flight was 7am. So, after eating, I rested a while,putting my head on CT's shoulders. Then, someone walked beside us and talked to us. It was Anthony-CT's colleague. He was also taking the same flight to Atlanta and transit to Las Vegas. We are also transitting at Atlanta. So, it was rather coincidental to have met him. We reached Atlanta at 8plus am, which was 9plus am (Atlanta time). We explored the area and I saw people queuing up for food at this stall and I saw fried chicken wings. So, I got tempted and bought 5 wings. Yum.

Air Tran plane we took-check out the sign!

Our next flight to Chicago was 1plus pm. So, we had 4 hours to "stone". So, we sat down, started reading, slept and then woke up and had lunch. Bought food from Burger King. I had a grilled chicken salad while CT got a double cheeseburger. After eating, read a while and slept again. Ha.. It was like a cycle.. Finally, we boarded the plane to Chicago!


Reached Chicago at 220pm and saw HsiangLing running towards us. Gave her a big hug and then we went on their car. It was a very cool car-Infiniti SUV with GPRS system in the car which tells you where you are on the map and how to get to your destination by a guided voice. Even when the car reverses, it shows the view of the back on the screen where you are heading so that you will not knock anything at the back of car. So, if you are not sure how to get to a place, you just need to tell the computer and they will guide you. Awesome...and if you happen to miss the turning, they will guide you in another way to your destination.Very useful. That is why HsiangLing drove the car to Toronto as well. The GPRS has the map of Canada roads as well. How cool can that be??


We went to their place to drop our bags, and then, Joan (HsiangLing's husband) & HsiangLing drove us around Chicago downtown. After that, we parked the car and walked along the Lake Michigan near the Shedd Aquarium. The Lake is huge!! It is like a sea as you cannot see what is on the other side.

Lake Michigan with downtown Chicago

We did lots of walking...never walked so much during my whole stay in Mobile, Alabama added up.We walked to Grant Park where they are having the "Taste of Chicago" event going on. In the park, there is also a big ferris wheel and water slides. They have about 500 booths set up by restaurants in Chicago displaying their food and we buy coupons and purchase to try. . They have taste portions as well for 3 coupons($1.50)..so me and CT bought a lot of the taste portion so that we can make our money's worth by trying a lot of different food and stalls. They have all sorts of cuisine..but it is super crowded!! So, we were squashed! Something which I do not like as I prefer peace and quiet! hehe..

Taste of Chicago Event

After eating, we went to see Santana performing at the Grant park. It was def very crowded also, but because of the big screen, we managed to see Santana from it. People were dancing and having picnic while listening. After watching, we went back to the stalls to use up our coupons. We finally had a deep dish pizza which is famous in Chicago. It is super thick pizza with thick layer of cheese..very yummy. After that, we squeezed out of the crowd and took a train back as Joan and HsiangLing parked the car back home already since the parking in Chicago is madness. It is difficult to find parking and if you do, it is very expensive..about 5US$ for half and hour! It is very convenient to take the train as their apartment is near the train station. But me and CT were not used to walking so much because in Mobile, we drive everywhere. The roads and streets is not pedestrian friendly. So, we were aching a lot while we went back to the apartment.

Santana performing at Grant Park

Farewell for Jim

Today, CT called early in the morning again to let me know that there will be a farewell dinner for Jim, who is CT's boss. He will be going to Singapore soon to set everything up. So, CT asked if I would like to join in the dinner or eat dinner at home and we go after dinner. Initially, I thought of just dropping by after our dinner at home as we needed to finish the food. However, I changed my mind and told CT that we should all go together and we will just eat in on Friday instead.

CT also told me to start planning for the next holiday trip in September as it is labour day-another long weekend. US Labour day is on the 5th of Sept. So, I planned to go Orlando, Florida since the kids will be back in schools and thus, there should not be as crowded. I have been to Orlando prob in about 1996/7...was there on a swimming trip where I trained in Fort Lauderdale with my fellow swimmer friends for almost a month and I remembered celebrating Christmas without my family for the first time at Disney Orlando where we stayed in the hotel there. It was awesome. What fond memories. So, I planned to go back there and bring CT around as he has never been there. I have been looking forward to ride roller coasters with CT as we have never done so together. We both love the thrills and all. So, I am sure it will be fun.

Will probably be going with Kok Fong and Gek Teng as well. Heard that the whole company seems to be going there as well after hearing our plans. Oh well...I find it strange to go on a holiday where so many of our friends are there..Yes, truthfully, I do not enjoy crowds and just prefer to be alone with my loved ones. :) But I guess, it is fine since we will be booking our accomodation and flight seperate. Will only do it with Kok Fong and Gek Teng since we planned for some time already.

Today, Gek Teng came over and watched TV together. After that, we went to the mailbox and check our letters. Gek Teng has this parcel which she was surprised as it was addressed to her english name which not many people knows about it. So, we were both wondering who it was from. She unwrapped it up and it is a book about Answers to life -A Christianity book. In my heart, I was thinking,"Wow.." because I also recently gave her a book on faith and all that. It seems that her friend who is also a Christian bought for her a book and sent it to her from Singapore. Then Gek Teng started to say,"Wha..how come you all send me books?" Then I said,"Guess it is time to start reading.." :) I told her that she can bring it to Tennessee to read since there will be a lot of time.

CT came home very late today..about 7pm. He said there was a meeting from 3pm to 6pm. He came home with only Kok Fong. So, he told me that he managed to share Christ with Kok Fong throughout the whole journey and explained the history and all. He also told Kok Fong to observe the lives of Christians (as that will be an evidence in itself)like his parents-in-law during the whole accident..how with only God's strength and peace can we go through all that and manage to be so calm. CT told him to just be open, be sensitive and observe.

Kok Fong and wife came with us to go for the farewell dinner together. We went to Hooters for the farewell dinner..yes, THAT hooters where women dress in short shorts, sleaveless tight shirts and serve the customers. Not the place I would go as it makes women very cheap..I feel..

All CT's colleagues were there and the place is not very big. SO, all of us were at seperate tables. We sat with Kok Fong, Gek Teng and Jim (CT's boss). Jim is from Chicago and will be transferred to Singapore for 3 years. He just got married as well and his wife is very pretty. They will be going to Chicago first to get ready to move to Singapore. His wife has left first to Chicago to pack..so she was not with us for this dinner. I ordered a buffalo platter (Wings, chicken strips and fried prawns) to share with CT and also curly fries. It was more than enough.

After dinner, evereyone gathered around our table as Jim was with us. So we felt kind of awkward. There were like 20 over pple gathering round the small table. Strange.. Then, one of the waitress approached Jim and started joining in the commotion. She rubbed her huge breasts on Jim's face.Goodness. Some of the colleagues took out their cameras and started taking pictures to sabo Jim. Ha.. Then the waitress started to give all the receipts of all our tables to Jim to ask him to pay. Initially, we were supposed to treat Jim...however, the waitress seemed insistent for Jim to pay and he started paying with the company credit card. Goodness, I felt bad as he should not be paying for so many of us on his farewell party somemore!

Oh well...

Left the place at about 9 plus pm. Did not stay too long as I did not like the place and moreover, it is rather smoky and has bad ventilation as they cook in the place..so quite stinky..

After dinner, me and CT started to watch the VCD and finally, finished the whole series. It is very exciting. Dad was the one who bought it for me. So, I will def bring it back for dad to watch it when he goes home. He will love the show. :)

Turned secretary..

Today, CT called me early in the morning and told me that he has been told when he will be going back to Singapore for good. We will probably be going back in the end of January-just in time for Chinese New Year. The 1st phase of colleagues will be going back in Oct while the 2nd phase going back in March/April. CT belongs to the 1.5 phase..:)

I am very happy as we have been praying and asked God to help us in settling all these as initially, we all thought we would go back in April and I felt it is too long as my leave is up to March. So, it will be troublesome for me to go back Singapore alone first. So, I am very happy of this arrangement that we will be going back in Jan. God does answer prayer and settles our worries.

This week is Indep day weekend and we will be going to Chicago from 2-5 July. After that, on the 6 July, CT and some of his colleagues need to make a trip to Loudon, Tennessee for business and CT is coordinating this trip. So, he called and told me to source for a hotel to stay.I suddenly became his secretary. Ha! This trip would be for 3 weeks and so, what I looked out for is a kitchen and internet access. So, I managed to find 5 options for CT and emailed to him and asked him to choose as each hotel has both plus and minus points. In the end, he chose "Residence Inn (Marriott)" as it has full kitchen facilities in the room, free high speed internet access in room, dishwasher etc. That was the most expensive hotel in my list. Oh well, it is great cos its paid by company. I will be going with him so I will def make use of the kitchen. I will be spending a lot of time with Gek Teng as we will be alone in the hotel and it will be a good time to talk with her and to know her better.
There will also be a swimming pool and fitness centre. So, hope to get in a good shape after the 3 weeks. Ha.

After the trip, it will prob be time for me to go back to Singapore for a week. So, there will be a lot of travelling done. We will be driving from here to Loudon, Tennessee. It is about 8 hours drive. Hope CT will be able to take the long drive esp since we just come back from Chicago at midnight and we will be leaving at 9am next day. Rush rush...

Me and Gek Teng has already planned to go back to Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg in Tennessee and to do white water rafting in Chattanooga, Tennessee when we go to stay in Loudon, Tennessee as it is not far from there. I was supposed to do white water rafting with my parents when they came here but because of the accident, (which was a day before our trip to Tennessee for white water rafting), we could not go. So, I hope to still do rafting there....Whenever things like this come up, I think of my parents, esp my dad and start to get knots in my heart as I miss him very much and I just cannot believe that my parents' trip here became like that...so unexpected.

Pray my dad will be out of ICU soon and can breathe on his own. I last heard from my mum that he has been trying to rely on his own lungs but he still depends on the ventilator at times. My dad has always been very active and it must be tough for him to stay in bed for so long. One month (from the accident) has passed so quickly and he must be having bad bedsores..

Tonight, when CT came home, we went out to eat at a new buffet Chinese restaurant. They have a 20% off because of the opening. So, we thought we should make use of the discount and eat there. The food was not as nice as I expected. Was rather disappointed but it has a lot of varieties. Guess it will be my first and last time there since there are so many Chinese restaurants everywhere. :)

CT came home early

This morning, CT went work later. He woke up at about 620am and left at 7am as he said there is not much to do at work. So anyway, after I made breakfast for him, I went back to sleep. As usual, he would kiss goodbye to me before he left.

I slept till 9am. Then woke up and did the usual morning stuff. Did some reading today and watching of TV. CT came home at 530pm. Very early. His usual is about 6 plus. SO I was pleasantly surprised. After dinner, we watched many TV shows one after another. The first one was "Nanny 911". It is a reality show about a family in distress who the parents are unable to manage the kids. So, they call in a Nanny and the company will select a nanny from a group appropriate for the job and goes to their rescue to re-organise their house and lives.

So, today's story was about 4 kids who expect their mum to do everything for them-to wear their socks, change etc..and their house is in a total mess so much so that their kids always miss the school bus because the mum cannot find their shoes and none of their many clocks in the house are working. So, the nanny laid down a lot of rules for each of the kids and expect them to dress on their own, make their own bed and keep their toys etc.. So after a week (which is the time limit), the nanny is supposed to save the day...and after a week, the kids have learnt a lot and the house is very neat and organised. The kids gave her a big hug and all of them cried when the nanny had to leave. Me and CT were watching the show and learning a lot about handling kids as the mum was way too attached to her kids that she wants to do everything for them...and that is why they do not take control of their own responsibilities.

Anyway, it was an insightful show... After that, we watched another reality show called, "Hell's Kitchen". It is about a famous chef in UK who is heading the restaurant and wanting to pick a chef out of the many people to run his restaurant. It is something like "The Apprentice"..but it is to do with cooking.

After the show, me and CT continued on to our next show. It was a documentary which I always wanted to see but always miss it. Glad they have repeated it so many times that I could watch it tonight. It is entitled, "The boy whose skin fell off". It is a true life story about a guy named Jonny Kennedy. He had a terrible genetic condition called Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) - which meant that his skin literally fell off at the slightest touch, leaving his body covered in agonising sores and leading to a final fight against skin cancer.

his last months Jonny decided to work with filmmaker Patrick Collerton to document his life and death, and the result was a film, first broadcast in March, that was an uplifting, confounding and provocatively humorous story of a singular man. Not shying away from the grim reality of EB, the film was also a celebration of a life lived to the full.

I was amazed at his life and how they showed him planning for his funeral-choosing his coffin, telling the carpenter what to carve on his coffin, who to speak during his funeral, who to sing in his funeral and what song to play...etc. He said that dying is part and parcel of life, so why can't you plan it as if you are planning for an anniversary or birthday? I feel that is quite true. It reminds me of a church friend whom I know and she has planned who to preach in her funeral and she even chose the songs to sing during her funeral. But the reality is, death is something everyone wants to avoid and run away from..or choose to ignore. It is like a taboo word which no one should speak about.

But why?? Why should we avoid it WILL come sooner or later? Is it because we are afraid to die?

This was the question that troubled me when I was young and it was this question that brought me to Christ.

For more info about the show, click on these links
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,7-1040286,00.html
http://tlc.discovery.com/fansites/boywhoseskinfelloff/boywhoseskinfelloff.html
http://www.channel4.com/health/microsites/B/boy_whose_skin_fell_off/

Just another day..

Today, went back to sleep again after CT left for work and woke up at 9am plus. After that, went back to rest at 11am till 12 noon as I was having a bad headache. Took a panadol after that and had my lunch. Felt better after panadol. Went to Gek Teng's place yesterday to take rice as we share a big bag of rice. Spent some time there to watch TV as well.

After that, had to go back to cook soup as it was 4 plus pm already. Gek Teng went home with me as she needed one egg for her fried pork ribs. I cooked soup that is good for cough as CT's colleague, Cecilia has a bad cough. The soup has almond seeds, fig etc..I love the soup as the fig gives a natural sweetness to it.

So after CT came home, he dropped by to pass the soup before he went to play tennis. CT came home sweating so much. It is nice to see him exercising and seeing his face all red.

After dinner, as usual, we would watch TV together and then watch our VCDs. Do not go out at night in case it is not safe..not like Singapore. So, I guess that is why Americans spend a lot of time together as a family. I still prefer a safe and secure environment for my kid to grow up as there are so many reports about missing children here and it seems like a norm. The law here is too lax as the people here wants democracy and freedom. Messed up.

Rest...

Today, as usual, went church. Today, during the service, the pastor showed a picture of a sudanese child with a vulture beside her waiting for her to die so that it can devour the child.

Pastor was sharing about the story of Kevin Carter, the photographer who took the picture and later on, committed suicide because he did nothing to help the child as the public criticised him. Pastor was also crying on stage in telling us to make a difference no matter if it is just one life. It was a very good service today and many were crying.

Starving Sudanese child being stalked by a vulture won Kevin Carter the 1994 Pulitzer Prize for feature photography.

After service, went Walmart to do grocery shopping and bought a camera bag finally. Then, CT prepared lunch for me and after that, I went to rest while CT was beside me the whole time accompanying me. He was reading a book. After I woke up, I went to prepare dinner while CT was snoring away. Ha.. After dinner, we watched 2 VCDs together. Had a great day.

Went on alligator swamp tour

This morning, going on an alligator swamp tour in the morning. So, cooked porridge for breakfast so that it will last longer till late afternoon. Had peanut porridge, cooked egg with chai poh, canned fish and salted egg. After breakfast, we went with kok fong and gek teng to the swamp tour area near New Orleans. Kok Fong drove our car as he wanted to try it out. So, me and CT sat behind and rested..it is nice to relax behind as when CT drives, I have to also stay alert to give directions and all..so troublesome.

Took us about 2 hours to the place. It was about US$20 per person. The weather is very hot and humid. About 30 over degrees celsius. We spotted about 4 alligators as we took a boat which drove us along the rivers and the swamp area. The tour was about 2 hours. Spotted lots of turtles, birds, dragonflies and small fishes in the water. We went on this tour in a group-CT's colleagues..altogether 8 of us. We figured it will be more fun to go in a group.

Alligator eating marshmellow

Anyway, after the tour, we headed to New Orleans since it was nearby..about half an hour away. So we parked our car and walked. In New Orleans, parking is expensive and not easily available since it is a city area...unlike Mobile where parking is free everywhere!! and many lots available..

We went on our seperate ways and arranged to meet at a particular place at 630pm for dinner together. CT and I walked in the French Market-pasar malam area to buy some stuff for friends. Then we walked along the streets and shops. We stopped by many live performances on the streets and listened to them playing and singing. Very nice. I enjoyed the live performances...as well as the art pieces displayed.

We had dinner at this small cafe which serves halal food. CT ordered chicken briyani while I ordered sheesh kabaab. His chicken briyani was quite nice. Like the real thing we eat in Singapore so he was very happy to have ordered that. After dinner, we walked along Bourbon Street and headed back to our car. It was about 8plus pm when we left New Orleans. SO, by the time we reached home, it was 1045pm already. Exhausted. CT drove back home.

I have placed my pictures on my photo site already. So check it out to see what I did and saw in New Orleans! :)

My first baseball game

Today, since CT has no work, we had instant noodles for breakfast. Last night, at 4am plus, our neighbour again made so much noise and went to balcony to laugh and talk so loudly that CT woke up at 6am plus to write a note to them to tell them how much we appreciated them to be more considerate. So, we stuck the note on their door when we left for shopping at noon. Went Bel Air Mall to shop for shoes, camera bag and sun glasses...all of which I have lost or made very dirty(my camera bag) during the accident. There were blood stains on my camera bag..so I had to get another one. After few hours of shopping, I end up buying only sunglasses from JC Penney departmental store. It was buy one and get the other one for 1 buck. So,of course, CT bought me 2 sunglasses!! yay.. He said that I always lose it..so might as well get 2. After shopping, we went to a Christian bookshop nearby to get a book for Kok Fong and Gek Teng. The book we got talks about questions that they might have about Christianity and the answers..like the historical evidence of the bible and Jesus..why God allows suffering..etc.. Went home to write a note in the book and wrapped it up. Tonight is a special night as we will be going to a baseball game by the company. So, before we left for the game, we went to their house to pass them the gift. Then, we car pooled and went together. The teams playing tonight is Mobile Bay bears Vs Huntsville stars.. Huntsville is a place in Alabama as well. It is my first time watching baseball and up to now, I do not know everything about baseball. Only the basics.

When we went there, we had food provided-hamburgers, buffalo wings, coleslaw and watermelon. There were potato chips as well. It was buffet style. I made for myself a double patty hamburger..only took one. It was enough. Did not eat much as I did not feel like eating too much and get myself all stuffed. After that, there were Junior Miss America girls from the different states who did a special appearance in the Hank Aaron stadium where we were at. They were playing baseball for the audience to see just before the match. After that, 2 of CT's colleagues were selected to do first pitching to start off the game. Me and CT went with them to take pictures at the field. The stadium is only a minor league stadium..so not as big but it was nice. Alabama has no major league team like New York Yankees or Dodgers etc..

CT and his colleagues at the baseball field

The baseball game started at 7pm and we were sitted very near the field. It was boring initially as I did not know what was going on..but after much explanation from CT's American colleague, me and CT kind of gotten the hang of it and enjoyed the game. So at first, I wanted to leave early but after that, I thought of hanging in there to watch the whole game since CT said that this may be our only chance to watch a baseball match, so it may be our last..So, we should stay. And heard that everytime after a baseball match, there will be fireworks. So, we stayed. Kok Fong and Gek Teng stayed as well as they came in our car and after hearing CT's explanation on why we should stay, we all stayed together while all of his colleagues left early as they felt it was boring. So, we stayed with Jim and wife. Jim is CT's boss. He kept telling us that if we want to leave, we can..we need not feel bad. Ha!

We sat all together and watched the game. I enjoyed it. When the game came to the 7th game (altogether they play 9 games), suddenly everyone in the stadium stood up. I asked the american colleague why is everyone standing up. He told us that it is a tradition for the 7th game to stand up to stretch after sitting down so long. Very interesting. It is nice to know of such tradition and fit in by doing the same.

After that, the screen came out an announcement for audience to go purchase a 3D glasses to see the fireworks later on in 3D for 1 buck. So, I told CT if he can get it to see wat it is like. So, he went to get and bought it. In the past, he will not buy it as he thinks it is silly and not practical. CT has indeed changed a lot and has been very nice and loving. Hehe..

After about 3 hours, the game finally ended and Mobile Baybears lost pathetically..hehe..Then, the lights went off and the fireworks finale started. Goodness--it was so nice!! Me and CT kept saying..wha...so nice..wha... We were so amazed. It lasted for about 15 mins with so many diff kinds of fireworks. It was better than our Singapore National Day fireworks. It was practically raining fireworks in the sky and lots of shooting stars fireworks with all sorts of colours. Wearing the glasses made the fireworks look nearer that it is. So, it is quite nice.

After the finale, we all said it was the right decision to stay as it was all well worth it. I left the stadium telling the rest that America is so rich for every game to have such fireworks. We were all smiles when we left the stadium at about 1030pm. For the pictures of today's match and fireworks, do check out my photos website.

Not feeling well

Today, have been feeling rather weak and went back to bed from 7am to about 11 plus. Woke up feeling very groggy and heated up my lunch to eat. Was watching TV and playing with my computer when someone knocked on the door. I got a shock. I opened the door and it was CT.

It was about 12 plus pm. CT and his colleagues were given 2 days off.. So when CT came home, he reheated his lunch and ate, watching TV together with me. After his lunch, I told him I was not feeling too well. So, we went to the clinic and I told the doctor I was feeling weak. She did not know what was wrong with me but to draw blood to test. Oh well..it was like blood donation drive. Then the doctor gave me prescription to strengthen my immunity.

Doctors here do not give out medicine. We have to go to the pharmacy to collect and pay the medicine on top of doctor's fees. However, after seeing the doctor, I told CT that I did not want to go pharmacy to get medicine. I would rather go home,rest and see how from there. So we went home. It was troublesome going to pharmacy to get medicine as still have to wait a long while for the medicine..about an hour. So, it is crazy.

At about 6pm, went to Bel Air Mall to shop for sport shoes as I lost my shoes during the accident. But I could not find any which I like..so did not get anything. After that, went to Wings Field Sports Bar cum restaurant to watch the NBA finals-Pistons Vs Spurs. The place is real nice. They have about 50 TV screens with 8 projector screens showing all different sport channels. The food is not expensive. About US$10 per person,serving American food...what else? Went with CT's colleagues. During half time, went home to continue watching as I prefer watching at home. Just went there for the fun of it since CT's colleagues invited us.

Wings Field Sports Restaurant

Is there hope in this world?

Today, went over to Gek Teng's place after lunch to watch show and take the 2nd volume of VCD from her as she has watched finished. The show I watched with Gek Teng was called,"Murder at the door." It is about a serial killer who kills pretty girls in a special way and it is about a woman who has set up a perfect family and be a great mother, but in the end, she found out that the murderer is actually her son.

This show makes me think about having kids and setting up a family. Every parents' wish is for the kids to be righteous and good kids, but what if in the end, your kids do not end up the way you want them to end up? Parents may be so loving and supportive, but sometimes, I feel it is very hard to control their thinking and how they will turn out to be.

There is a lot of hopelessness in this world when things like this happen or even the train accident that happened to my family..but I am just so glad I have a God who gives hope. It is like walking in a desert for days with no water, and suddenly you see a pond of fresh water, or in a garden with dead leaves and all of a sudden, you see a nice blooming flower. There is hope and peace with God and I am very assured of my future. Question is..are you assured of yours?