Well it has been a little over 3 weeks since we arrived in Okinawa. It's such a great place to be, despite the weather that greeted us upon our arrival.
The weather has been great since and you'd think that since it's December it would be a little cold too. However, we decided after breakfast this morning we'd venture out to find the 100 yen store (Okinawa's version of the Dollar store) & we found it. Yipppeeee. After browsing the isles at the store we didn't feel like going back to the hotel, yes that's right hotel, so we headed to the beach.
It was rather warm w/a slight breeze. We had a great time wading through the water, not past mid calf, and we even encouraged Dominic to join in. He did, after some encouragement from mom & dad, he finally got his feet wet. That was it, he loved it, in fact he loved it so much that he got his shorts completely soaked & then started splashing mom & dad. Oh, it was fun, the water was warm and beautiful too. When we were finished splashing around we'd decided we should "come home" to have lunch & on our way out, we saw a Japanese couple coming onto the beach to take their wedding pictures.
We are so proud of our little man. He's been skiddish about going in the ocean due to the waves, but today he was fearless. Sorry no pictures though. We had left the camera back at the car. However, next time we go out we'll take it. I am sure he'll do the same again.
Update: The 18th of December is when our building's inspection is supposed to take place. We've even heard that it could be earlier than that, but we'll see. If it's earlier then great we can leave the hotel and head for our place. If not, then we'll move in sometime after the 18th of December. Our express shipment has arrived which means our desk top computer is here w/the cable hook ups to download the camera. However, the down side is, it's still in the warehouse until we can move into our place. So hopefully soon.
Well, hope all had a Happy Thanksgiving and are looking forward to the Christmas season. Until next time, please take care and hopefully the next update we'll be able to have pictures; be settled into our place; and have our house decorated for Christmas.
Our Love to All,
Tam, Nyoka & Dominic
"Your family in the Pacific"
Saturday, December 08, 2007
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Farewells & Updates
Farewell can be defined as an acknowledgment at parting; a goodbye or the act of departing or taking leave. It is also the separation of two or more people; & well if any one of you reading this who knows us, there is well over two people that we had said goodbye too.
So on November 15th, we said good-bye to our friends and family to set off on our new adventures that awaited us in Okinawa. As some of you may know, from my Cousin Chris’ BLOG that it was also our (Tam & I) anniversary, our 6th for those who are keeping count. So while in the air we decided to make a toast & had our first chardonnay (by the way if you didn’t know on international flights it’s free, yes even in coach). The toast was awesome, but the chardonnay could have been better.
Any ways, we finally landed in Tokyo from Los Angeles on 16 Nov, at 3pm, Japan time, & we proceeded through customs. After customs we had to get our entire luggage (2 BIG suitcases, 1 sea bag, & Dominic’s car seat) and recheck it through our connecting carrier, Al Nippon Airlines. We get to the check-in counter only to discover that we left the car seat still at baggage claim. Poor Tam went back through customs to baggage claim & back through customs again to retrieve the missed luggage. What a sweet man I knew I married a good guy. Well we finally checked in & got settled at our gate & let Dominic watch his DVD player. I have never seen anyone so tired, but still interested in watching a movie. Dominic’s eyes were red because he kept rubbing them & he was worn out, but he stared none the less at the screen & watched his movie. Then he decided he wanted to get up and run around, total mood switch.
At about 5:50pm (Japan time) we boarded the bus that took us to our plane. We got settled in & both Dominic & I fell asleep. Not to bore you guys w/too many details we got checked into the hotel & settled into our room. We all slept & the set out for adventures around base the first couple of days here. Most already know that Tam & I met here in Okinawa (poor Karen thought he fell in love w/a Japanese girl when she heard my name).
It has been awesome to site see and reminisce about our old stomping grounds and most definitely be able to share them w/Dominic. In the 6 years since we last been here there have been a few changes on base; like buildings that weren’t here before (restaurants – Macaroni Grill & Captain D’s, oh & Cinnabon) or that are no longer here (the gas station by the exchange). There are also some pretty lame rules, i.e. curfews which I can understand for the junior personnel that are single and living in the barracks, but for those of us who are married (give us a break).
We met some pretty cool people (Tam’s sponsor & his family – who just happens to be from Baton Rouge & New Orleans). We all just went out to dinner last night at our old favorite restaurant the Dragons. We had dinner for less than $20 & that was for both Tam & myself (Dominic shared w/us). There was a lot of food and at a very cheap price. For the food we had last night that would’ve cost use $30-$40 easy in the states.
This past Friday we went for a walk off base, our first venture in 6 years. The hotel’s shuttle dropped us off at the Naval Hospital & we walked around town. We stopped inside a few stores, one we even call the Monkey Store, but it’s Okinawa’s version of Home Depot or Lowe’s. We even stopped inside Jusco, their version of an American Mall. On the second floor there’s a game room for little kids. Dominic got to ride rides which included his favorite ride the carousel, yes he road it twice.
Well guys, I do have BLOG entries for our trips to Florida & Louisiana, but want to post them w/pictures or slide shows, so please stay patient & we’ll post them. We just have to wait until we move into our place and are able to down load the pictures onto the computer, so far there are 500+ on the camera.
Until next time, please take care & may God bless. Keeping everyone safely in the hollow of His hands.
Love you guys,
Nyoka, Tam & Dominic
P.S. for those who remember regarding the fire from our last entry, all was fine w/our house & neighborhood. Thanks for all of the prayers/concerns.
So on November 15th, we said good-bye to our friends and family to set off on our new adventures that awaited us in Okinawa. As some of you may know, from my Cousin Chris’ BLOG that it was also our (Tam & I) anniversary, our 6th for those who are keeping count. So while in the air we decided to make a toast & had our first chardonnay (by the way if you didn’t know on international flights it’s free, yes even in coach). The toast was awesome, but the chardonnay could have been better.
Any ways, we finally landed in Tokyo from Los Angeles on 16 Nov, at 3pm, Japan time, & we proceeded through customs. After customs we had to get our entire luggage (2 BIG suitcases, 1 sea bag, & Dominic’s car seat) and recheck it through our connecting carrier, Al Nippon Airlines. We get to the check-in counter only to discover that we left the car seat still at baggage claim. Poor Tam went back through customs to baggage claim & back through customs again to retrieve the missed luggage. What a sweet man I knew I married a good guy. Well we finally checked in & got settled at our gate & let Dominic watch his DVD player. I have never seen anyone so tired, but still interested in watching a movie. Dominic’s eyes were red because he kept rubbing them & he was worn out, but he stared none the less at the screen & watched his movie. Then he decided he wanted to get up and run around, total mood switch.
At about 5:50pm (Japan time) we boarded the bus that took us to our plane. We got settled in & both Dominic & I fell asleep. Not to bore you guys w/too many details we got checked into the hotel & settled into our room. We all slept & the set out for adventures around base the first couple of days here. Most already know that Tam & I met here in Okinawa (poor Karen thought he fell in love w/a Japanese girl when she heard my name).
It has been awesome to site see and reminisce about our old stomping grounds and most definitely be able to share them w/Dominic. In the 6 years since we last been here there have been a few changes on base; like buildings that weren’t here before (restaurants – Macaroni Grill & Captain D’s, oh & Cinnabon) or that are no longer here (the gas station by the exchange). There are also some pretty lame rules, i.e. curfews which I can understand for the junior personnel that are single and living in the barracks, but for those of us who are married (give us a break).
We met some pretty cool people (Tam’s sponsor & his family – who just happens to be from Baton Rouge & New Orleans). We all just went out to dinner last night at our old favorite restaurant the Dragons. We had dinner for less than $20 & that was for both Tam & myself (Dominic shared w/us). There was a lot of food and at a very cheap price. For the food we had last night that would’ve cost use $30-$40 easy in the states.
This past Friday we went for a walk off base, our first venture in 6 years. The hotel’s shuttle dropped us off at the Naval Hospital & we walked around town. We stopped inside a few stores, one we even call the Monkey Store, but it’s Okinawa’s version of Home Depot or Lowe’s. We even stopped inside Jusco, their version of an American Mall. On the second floor there’s a game room for little kids. Dominic got to ride rides which included his favorite ride the carousel, yes he road it twice.
Well guys, I do have BLOG entries for our trips to Florida & Louisiana, but want to post them w/pictures or slide shows, so please stay patient & we’ll post them. We just have to wait until we move into our place and are able to down load the pictures onto the computer, so far there are 500+ on the camera.
Until next time, please take care & may God bless. Keeping everyone safely in the hollow of His hands.
Love you guys,
Nyoka, Tam & Dominic
P.S. for those who remember regarding the fire from our last entry, all was fine w/our house & neighborhood. Thanks for all of the prayers/concerns.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Update
Sorry guys, no pictures this time.
As most of you may know, whether from the news or word of mouth, we are in the midst of a fire. Please do not worry, we are fine. We've been hanging out in Los Angeles @ Linh's place. Trying to keep Dominic occupied is hard.
Amongst all this chaos, we are also in the middle of transferring to Okinawa. On Friday, 10/19/07, the movers came and packed up most of our belongings & were supposed to come back on Monday, 10/22/07. Due to the fires and road closures they were not able to get to our place. So for now we sit & wait.
We are thankfully going to be off on vacation starting tomorrow to Florida & Louisiana. While in Florida, we plan on going to Disney World. So psyched, our 2nd time, but Dominic's first. This is also going to be our first BIG family vacation meaning, both my nephews, sister, mother & step-father are going too. We haven't done a family trip like this since Chenoa & I both were single and didn't have children & that was to Busch Gardens in Tampa.
Sorry for the short post, but we are off to the mall. Dominic needs to stretch is legs a little and run around. Maybe mommy shouldn't have packed up most of his toys. Oh well, it's a learning experience for next time. Well until next time, please take care and may God bless.
Love to all,
The Duong Family ;-)
As most of you may know, whether from the news or word of mouth, we are in the midst of a fire. Please do not worry, we are fine. We've been hanging out in Los Angeles @ Linh's place. Trying to keep Dominic occupied is hard.
Amongst all this chaos, we are also in the middle of transferring to Okinawa. On Friday, 10/19/07, the movers came and packed up most of our belongings & were supposed to come back on Monday, 10/22/07. Due to the fires and road closures they were not able to get to our place. So for now we sit & wait.
We are thankfully going to be off on vacation starting tomorrow to Florida & Louisiana. While in Florida, we plan on going to Disney World. So psyched, our 2nd time, but Dominic's first. This is also going to be our first BIG family vacation meaning, both my nephews, sister, mother & step-father are going too. We haven't done a family trip like this since Chenoa & I both were single and didn't have children & that was to Busch Gardens in Tampa.
Sorry for the short post, but we are off to the mall. Dominic needs to stretch is legs a little and run around. Maybe mommy shouldn't have packed up most of his toys. Oh well, it's a learning experience for next time. Well until next time, please take care and may God bless.
Love to all,
The Duong Family ;-)
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Over Due
Greetings everyone, it has been quite some time since our last post & we’d like to apologize. However, a lot has happened in the time that’s passed & we hope you enjoy the great read & photos to follow.
June kicked off summer & the start of summer baby birthdays; Tam, his mother, Brenna, Aron (my oldest nephew), Sam (my step-father), Chenoa, Uncle Bill, myself, Linh, Christian (my youngest nephew), Karen & Jared. Man what a lot of birthdays, but that means a lot of parties and celebrations & what great way to spend it than with those you love. We even went camping at the beach w/my Linh, Jan, & Tam's parents, along w/the three of us. We were celebrating the start of the summer baby birthdays & Father's Day. The weekend was filled w/fun in the sun & sand.
During the month of June, I had the greatest pleasure of being a camp counselor for the Muscular Dystrophy Associations Summer Camp in Cuyamaca near Julian. For a whole week we got to be the arms, legs & in some cases a voice, for our campers. We participated in events like casino night; teddy bear foot ball (what fun, but look out for those w/wheel chairs); derby car racing; dance night; lama rides & pet therapy dogs. During the talent shows we had everything from skits to singing and even one camper presenting us w/math challenges. No matter what the talent, those campers made you forget that they were there w/neuromuscular diseases made their wheelchairs disappear. The most rewarding part of the whole week, at least for me was the military hide ‘n’ seek. Those counselors that were in the military were able to suit up in cammies and cammy paint and hide along trails that campers walked down. If they found you great if not, well that was fine too. But just being able to see them smile once you jumped from your hiding spot was and still is priceless.
In July, I said good bye to getting glasses shoved in my eye when playing w/Dominic & finally decided that I’d had enough of little finger prints on them as well. That’s right I braved the laser and had LASIK eye surgery, complements of Uncle Sam. That’s right ladies and gentlemen no more contact lenses or glasses for me, well except for sun glasses. Then it was off for some fun in the sun at Disneyland. Dominic had a blast especially at brunch w/the many Disney Characters.
August meant that summer’s coming to a close and most start back to school. Tam started online classes w/AIU (American Intercontinental University) in pursuit of his degree in Criminal Justice. That’s right he’ll retire from one uniform and suit up w/another. Baby, I am sooooo proud of you and will be there to help you throughout your pursuit. The beginning of August also meant that Tam & I attended leadership courses in Coronado which is a promotional requirement. Yes, the days were short, but that gave us the greatest opportunity for training for the ½ marathon. We also took a road trip to Eureka, Ca, where Jan is attending Humboldt University. She will be finishing her degree to become a History Teacher. Jan we are so very proud of you and wish you the best of luck. Just remember to send us pictures of those that live in trees. During our trip we also got to see the red woods. WOW! They are so tall and round, we even got to drive through one of them.
Towards the middle of August, Tam & I competed in our first half marathon, the 30th annual America’s Finest City Half Marathon in San Diego. For those who are wondering that’s 13.1 miles non-stop. We were amongst 7,000+ participants of which we placed 5,791 (me) & 5,794 (Tam). Tam finished just mere seconds after me; he was taking pictures of me crossing the finish line. It took us 2hrs & 56mins to complete the 13.1 mile course. Some of our good friends, Regina & Joe w/their daughter Isabelle & Tony w/our son Dominic, met us at the finish line. What an awesome feeling to have knowing that you have your very own cheering crowd; it most definitely helped push you through the miles. Yes, I will admit our bodies were rather sore and continued to be for the next day or so, but it was a great accomplishment of which we’ll do again. After the marathon we introduced our friends to our favorite Italian restaurant, talk about lots of great homemade food (including homemade pasta’s and canoli’s) for a cheap price. What’s next you may be wondering, a 26 mile bike ride in Long Beach, this time we’ll be able to tow Dominic along in his trailer. We just have to wait and see if our bikes will still be here or on their way to Okinawa.
Well soon we’ll be heading out for vacation to FL, where we’ll be taking a family trip w/Chenoa, Aron, Christian, my mom and step-dad to Walt Disney World. It’ll be our first trip together in about 7 years. Gosh we are excited. Dominic really had fun at Disney Land seeing all the different characters, so this should be a hoot. From FL, we’ll head to LA where we’ll visit w/the rest of my family and have yet another birthday for Dominic; he’ll be turning 2 on November 4th. After we leave LA then we’ll be back in CA for another week. Then the adventure begins, a new chapter in our lives awaits us in Okinawa.
June kicked off summer & the start of summer baby birthdays; Tam, his mother, Brenna, Aron (my oldest nephew), Sam (my step-father), Chenoa, Uncle Bill, myself, Linh, Christian (my youngest nephew), Karen & Jared. Man what a lot of birthdays, but that means a lot of parties and celebrations & what great way to spend it than with those you love. We even went camping at the beach w/my Linh, Jan, & Tam's parents, along w/the three of us. We were celebrating the start of the summer baby birthdays & Father's Day. The weekend was filled w/fun in the sun & sand.
During the month of June, I had the greatest pleasure of being a camp counselor for the Muscular Dystrophy Associations Summer Camp in Cuyamaca near Julian. For a whole week we got to be the arms, legs & in some cases a voice, for our campers. We participated in events like casino night; teddy bear foot ball (what fun, but look out for those w/wheel chairs); derby car racing; dance night; lama rides & pet therapy dogs. During the talent shows we had everything from skits to singing and even one camper presenting us w/math challenges. No matter what the talent, those campers made you forget that they were there w/neuromuscular diseases made their wheelchairs disappear. The most rewarding part of the whole week, at least for me was the military hide ‘n’ seek. Those counselors that were in the military were able to suit up in cammies and cammy paint and hide along trails that campers walked down. If they found you great if not, well that was fine too. But just being able to see them smile once you jumped from your hiding spot was and still is priceless.
In July, I said good bye to getting glasses shoved in my eye when playing w/Dominic & finally decided that I’d had enough of little finger prints on them as well. That’s right I braved the laser and had LASIK eye surgery, complements of Uncle Sam. That’s right ladies and gentlemen no more contact lenses or glasses for me, well except for sun glasses. Then it was off for some fun in the sun at Disneyland. Dominic had a blast especially at brunch w/the many Disney Characters.
August meant that summer’s coming to a close and most start back to school. Tam started online classes w/AIU (American Intercontinental University) in pursuit of his degree in Criminal Justice. That’s right he’ll retire from one uniform and suit up w/another. Baby, I am sooooo proud of you and will be there to help you throughout your pursuit. The beginning of August also meant that Tam & I attended leadership courses in Coronado which is a promotional requirement. Yes, the days were short, but that gave us the greatest opportunity for training for the ½ marathon. We also took a road trip to Eureka, Ca, where Jan is attending Humboldt University. She will be finishing her degree to become a History Teacher. Jan we are so very proud of you and wish you the best of luck. Just remember to send us pictures of those that live in trees. During our trip we also got to see the red woods. WOW! They are so tall and round, we even got to drive through one of them.
Towards the middle of August, Tam & I competed in our first half marathon, the 30th annual America’s Finest City Half Marathon in San Diego. For those who are wondering that’s 13.1 miles non-stop. We were amongst 7,000+ participants of which we placed 5,791 (me) & 5,794 (Tam). Tam finished just mere seconds after me; he was taking pictures of me crossing the finish line. It took us 2hrs & 56mins to complete the 13.1 mile course. Some of our good friends, Regina & Joe w/their daughter Isabelle & Tony w/our son Dominic, met us at the finish line. What an awesome feeling to have knowing that you have your very own cheering crowd; it most definitely helped push you through the miles. Yes, I will admit our bodies were rather sore and continued to be for the next day or so, but it was a great accomplishment of which we’ll do again. After the marathon we introduced our friends to our favorite Italian restaurant, talk about lots of great homemade food (including homemade pasta’s and canoli’s) for a cheap price. What’s next you may be wondering, a 26 mile bike ride in Long Beach, this time we’ll be able to tow Dominic along in his trailer. We just have to wait and see if our bikes will still be here or on their way to Okinawa.
Well soon we’ll be heading out for vacation to FL, where we’ll be taking a family trip w/Chenoa, Aron, Christian, my mom and step-dad to Walt Disney World. It’ll be our first trip together in about 7 years. Gosh we are excited. Dominic really had fun at Disney Land seeing all the different characters, so this should be a hoot. From FL, we’ll head to LA where we’ll visit w/the rest of my family and have yet another birthday for Dominic; he’ll be turning 2 on November 4th. After we leave LA then we’ll be back in CA for another week. Then the adventure begins, a new chapter in our lives awaits us in Okinawa.
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Misc. Events
Well everyone, just a little note to say hello. Here's an update as to the events in our lives:
November we'll be leaving to go to Okinawa & we are rather excited. For most who don't know, that's where Tam & I began. We now have the opportunity to share this part of ourselves w/Dominic & his sibling. Wait, we're not prego's, but who knows what Okinawa has in store for us.
We've been real busy w/work and I'm still going to school, almost done w/my associates in phsyical therapy. Not to mention we are going to be participating in our first marathon, August 19th, on my birthday. What a present I'll be giving myself, if I even cross the finish line. Just kidding we all know I will cross, the question is how long it will take. So with that said we are also busy training for that.
Since we've last BLOG, there has been playdates to the zoo, tours on the USS Midway CV-41, C.R.O.P. walks & oh our 10 year high school reunions. Tam & I have both been out of school now for 10 years, yikes. Okay, so some who are reading this has been out longer.
Just wanted to share w/you the pictures of our adventures in one BLOG attempt. Here goes. Please enjoy.
Love ya'll...
Stanley High School Reunion, Class of 1997. Held at Superior Bar & Grill in Shreveport, Louisiana. "A Night of Deja Vu...":
Here are pictures of us at the 2007 C.R.O.P. Walk in our community, in which we walked because they walk, helping to raise money for those in our community & nation who are hungry...
Dominic's first encounter w/a ship...Our official self guided tour of the USS Midway CV-41:
Lastly, for now, my recent play date at the zoo w/my pals Isabelle & Riley. We saw tons of animals and did a lot of walking, oka & occasional strolling. Hey we're still little tikes. Although looking at the map, there are a few places we haven't seen, so I am sure we'll be taking another trip. Enjoy...just don't let the water marks fool you. It didn't rain on our trip...
November we'll be leaving to go to Okinawa & we are rather excited. For most who don't know, that's where Tam & I began. We now have the opportunity to share this part of ourselves w/Dominic & his sibling. Wait, we're not prego's, but who knows what Okinawa has in store for us.
We've been real busy w/work and I'm still going to school, almost done w/my associates in phsyical therapy. Not to mention we are going to be participating in our first marathon, August 19th, on my birthday. What a present I'll be giving myself, if I even cross the finish line. Just kidding we all know I will cross, the question is how long it will take. So with that said we are also busy training for that.
Since we've last BLOG, there has been playdates to the zoo, tours on the USS Midway CV-41, C.R.O.P. walks & oh our 10 year high school reunions. Tam & I have both been out of school now for 10 years, yikes. Okay, so some who are reading this has been out longer.
Just wanted to share w/you the pictures of our adventures in one BLOG attempt. Here goes. Please enjoy.
Love ya'll...
Stanley High School Reunion, Class of 1997. Held at Superior Bar & Grill in Shreveport, Louisiana. "A Night of Deja Vu...":
Here are pictures of us at the 2007 C.R.O.P. Walk in our community, in which we walked because they walk, helping to raise money for those in our community & nation who are hungry...
Dominic's first encounter w/a ship...Our official self guided tour of the USS Midway CV-41:
Lastly, for now, my recent play date at the zoo w/my pals Isabelle & Riley. We saw tons of animals and did a lot of walking, oka & occasional strolling. Hey we're still little tikes. Although looking at the map, there are a few places we haven't seen, so I am sure we'll be taking another trip. Enjoy...just don't let the water marks fool you. It didn't rain on our trip...
MS Walk 2007
As promised, our next entry is a tribute to MS. Sorry it took so long.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease with no known cause or cure. It is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. Multiple sclerosis interrupts the flow of information from the brain to the body and stops people from moving. So once a year there's a big to do w/a walk and all the "trimmings." Our motto, is we walk because they can't. The walk is roughly 5K (a little over 3 miles). We've done it every year since we've been in San Diego, except last year because Tam decided he had to go off and play in the Sand Box.
The last entry was a tribute to my uncle who passed from MS. Every year we walk for two of our family members. This year we honored them and placed their names on the Wall of Hope & "carried" them on our back.
Let the pictures speak for themselves:
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Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease with no known cause or cure. It is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. Multiple sclerosis interrupts the flow of information from the brain to the body and stops people from moving. So once a year there's a big to do w/a walk and all the "trimmings." Our motto, is we walk because they can't. The walk is roughly 5K (a little over 3 miles). We've done it every year since we've been in San Diego, except last year because Tam decided he had to go off and play in the Sand Box.
The last entry was a tribute to my uncle who passed from MS. Every year we walk for two of our family members. This year we honored them and placed their names on the Wall of Hope & "carried" them on our back.
Let the pictures speak for themselves:
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Monday, April 30, 2007
Various Updates
Since our last BLOG entry, there have been a lot of things that have kept us busy. We’ve had Easter: volunteer events like the Oceanside Ironman; bike rides; kite day at Dominic’s day care; luncheons; fairs; and just good ole’ visits w/family & friends. Amidst this twisted whirl wind we call life, filled w/work, school and family; you can save we’ve been real busy. Just to recap a few of the events read the following:
Tam has mentioned, in the past about the beauty of the Carlsbad Flowers and so after the Ironman we went. Boy there sure were many beautiful flowers there. They even managed to make a huge American Flag out of red, white & blue flowers.
We took Linh & Jan on a bike ride that lead to the beach, Dominic passed out on the way back, followed by an impromptu visit to Old Towne Temecula. Out of our three years here, it’s only the second time we’ve made a trip there. This time the shops were open ha, ha, ha. All we did was window & antic shop, and manage to have a great time. I even discovered the Root beer Shoppe. To my surprise, they didn’t make root beer floats, although there was an array of brands of root beer and many other beverages from long ago. We settled for the Route 66 Root beer that’s made in Temecula.
Some how during our busy schedules, of which we always have something planned/going on, Dominic & mommy managed to build a fort made out of dinning room chairs and blankets. Dominic was tiny enough to wither in and out, around and under the chairs. Mommy, on the other hand, was only able to go through the main entrance; sucks to be mommy.
Hey mommy did manage to show me how much fun sidewalk chalk can be. Boy, did we mark up the drive way.
Just this past weekend we had yet another fair, the annual Kids First Fair & a volunteer event, the MS walk which will be the next entry. While in San Diego, though, we managed a tour of the USS Midway CV-41 (meaning Carrier Vessel & it’s 41st in its class). Remember the event from long ago with the sailor & nurse kissing after either Vietnam or Pearl Harbor? Well there’s also a 25 foot statue there of a re-enactment. All of which we have pictures and will post them in a later entry as we haven’t down loaded them yet. Although there are not a lot of pictures of the Kid’s First Fair, mommy dropped the camera and broke it. Thank goodness for a back up or we wouldn’t have pictures from the rest of the weekend.
Any how, I leave you w/this saying: “But most of all, the best times spent are quality times together,” probably said by someone famous other than myself. Take care & God bless.
Love,
The Duong Family
Tam has mentioned, in the past about the beauty of the Carlsbad Flowers and so after the Ironman we went. Boy there sure were many beautiful flowers there. They even managed to make a huge American Flag out of red, white & blue flowers.
We took Linh & Jan on a bike ride that lead to the beach, Dominic passed out on the way back, followed by an impromptu visit to Old Towne Temecula. Out of our three years here, it’s only the second time we’ve made a trip there. This time the shops were open ha, ha, ha. All we did was window & antic shop, and manage to have a great time. I even discovered the Root beer Shoppe. To my surprise, they didn’t make root beer floats, although there was an array of brands of root beer and many other beverages from long ago. We settled for the Route 66 Root beer that’s made in Temecula.
Some how during our busy schedules, of which we always have something planned/going on, Dominic & mommy managed to build a fort made out of dinning room chairs and blankets. Dominic was tiny enough to wither in and out, around and under the chairs. Mommy, on the other hand, was only able to go through the main entrance; sucks to be mommy.
Hey mommy did manage to show me how much fun sidewalk chalk can be. Boy, did we mark up the drive way.
Just this past weekend we had yet another fair, the annual Kids First Fair & a volunteer event, the MS walk which will be the next entry. While in San Diego, though, we managed a tour of the USS Midway CV-41 (meaning Carrier Vessel & it’s 41st in its class). Remember the event from long ago with the sailor & nurse kissing after either Vietnam or Pearl Harbor? Well there’s also a 25 foot statue there of a re-enactment. All of which we have pictures and will post them in a later entry as we haven’t down loaded them yet. Although there are not a lot of pictures of the Kid’s First Fair, mommy dropped the camera and broke it. Thank goodness for a back up or we wouldn’t have pictures from the rest of the weekend.
Any how, I leave you w/this saying: “But most of all, the best times spent are quality times together,” probably said by someone famous other than myself. Take care & God bless.
Love,
The Duong Family
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Tribute
This post is memory of my late uncle: Frank Tombrello, Sr.; 1947-2007
Wednesday, my cousin called to inform me that my uncle passed away, after a long battle with MS. Every year we participate in the annual MS walk helping to raise money for the cure. We've always walked it for him & Chris, but this year we'll be walking it in his memory.
Here's a little brief background on my uncle of whom I love very much:
Occupation(s): Master Sergeant in the U.S. Army; production line worker @ AT&T; & a Lt. in the Auxiliary Police Division of the Shreveport Police Department.
Uncle Frank had been married to my lovely Aunt Geneva for 39 years. During which time they raised 3 boys: John, Frank Jr. & Chris.
Dear Uncle Frank,
You are with our Heavenly Father now. You have a new and able body and are no longer suffering. Please know that we love you and think of you often. Everytime we came home, we'd make a special trip just to see you. But now you're in heaven looking down, keeping a watchful eye on us. We love you, Uncle Frank. Always have & Always will.
Until we meet again,
Tam, Nyoka & Dominic
Wednesday, my cousin called to inform me that my uncle passed away, after a long battle with MS. Every year we participate in the annual MS walk helping to raise money for the cure. We've always walked it for him & Chris, but this year we'll be walking it in his memory.
Here's a little brief background on my uncle of whom I love very much:
Occupation(s): Master Sergeant in the U.S. Army; production line worker @ AT&T; & a Lt. in the Auxiliary Police Division of the Shreveport Police Department.
Uncle Frank had been married to my lovely Aunt Geneva for 39 years. During which time they raised 3 boys: John, Frank Jr. & Chris.
Dear Uncle Frank,
You are with our Heavenly Father now. You have a new and able body and are no longer suffering. Please know that we love you and think of you often. Everytime we came home, we'd make a special trip just to see you. But now you're in heaven looking down, keeping a watchful eye on us. We love you, Uncle Frank. Always have & Always will.
Until we meet again,
Tam, Nyoka & Dominic
On the Road
Well sometime last year, shortly after Tam returned from the sandbox we both bought bicycles. Since then, we've only rode them once. Seeing as how Dominic's too young to ride on a bike all his own, we've been doing some serious searching for him too. We decided on a bike trailer, that way if we were to fall he wouldn't.
The next step was to the bike store to place the order. We walked into the store told the salesman exactly what we wanted and we ordered it and for that we were given a 10% discount. Psst, there wasn't even a sale going on. A week later it was ready for pick up.
So after we pulled ourselves out of bed on Sunday, 18 March, we decided to go for our first family bike ride. We went for a lovely 7.8 mile bike ride down the San Louis Ray River Bike Trail, w/Dominic in tow. Every hill we went down you could hear him laughing and giggling. He had his toys to keep him busy and the occasionally chat w/mom.
About 300 yards from the finish line, Dominic started to get fussy. I bet he was getting tired of being buckled in. Mommy told him he had the easiest job, just sit back and let dad give him a ride. With that said, daddy & Dominic beat mommy to the finish line.
All in all, we had a blast. Here's a few pictures from our 1st of many bike adventures.
The next step was to the bike store to place the order. We walked into the store told the salesman exactly what we wanted and we ordered it and for that we were given a 10% discount. Psst, there wasn't even a sale going on. A week later it was ready for pick up.
So after we pulled ourselves out of bed on Sunday, 18 March, we decided to go for our first family bike ride. We went for a lovely 7.8 mile bike ride down the San Louis Ray River Bike Trail, w/Dominic in tow. Every hill we went down you could hear him laughing and giggling. He had his toys to keep him busy and the occasionally chat w/mom.
About 300 yards from the finish line, Dominic started to get fussy. I bet he was getting tired of being buckled in. Mommy told him he had the easiest job, just sit back and let dad give him a ride. With that said, daddy & Dominic beat mommy to the finish line.
All in all, we had a blast. Here's a few pictures from our 1st of many bike adventures.
Zoo Trip
Almost 2 weeks ago I went down to San Diego, with mommy & daddy of course. I had a hearing check up, of which I aced. Shucks, now mommy knows that I hear her when I'm pretending to ignore her. Rats you audiologists. Any way, while we were there, mommy & daddy took me to the zoo for the first time. Man did I have loads of fun or what.
When we arrived, dad put mommy in charge of the zoo map & told her to be tour guide. What were you thinking, dad. You know mom & maps don't mix well. You navigate next time please.
Along the way we got to see many cool animals. Among them were orangutans; apes & gorillas, monkeys; polar bears; hippos; a lot of birds in the aviaries; pandas; some reptiles & fish. At some point mommy & daddy decided to get on the guided tour bus ride. We sat at the top where we could see everything. I for one had the best seat in the house, moms lap. Our first stop were the giraffes, man those are some tall animals. The next stop were the elephants, but at that point I was long gone. You see I sat in my stroller all of a minute before I put up a fuss to walk around. Sure was fun keeping mom & dad on their toes, but who knew I'd be pooped by the end of the day.
I certainly can't wait to go back. Well please enjoy our snap shots our our lovely new TV.
Your Pal,
Dominic
When we arrived, dad put mommy in charge of the zoo map & told her to be tour guide. What were you thinking, dad. You know mom & maps don't mix well. You navigate next time please.
Along the way we got to see many cool animals. Among them were orangutans; apes & gorillas, monkeys; polar bears; hippos; a lot of birds in the aviaries; pandas; some reptiles & fish. At some point mommy & daddy decided to get on the guided tour bus ride. We sat at the top where we could see everything. I for one had the best seat in the house, moms lap. Our first stop were the giraffes, man those are some tall animals. The next stop were the elephants, but at that point I was long gone. You see I sat in my stroller all of a minute before I put up a fuss to walk around. Sure was fun keeping mom & dad on their toes, but who knew I'd be pooped by the end of the day.
I certainly can't wait to go back. Well please enjoy our snap shots our our lovely new TV.
Your Pal,
Dominic
Isabelle's #1
Birthday Bash, 17 March 2007
The Birthday Crowd: Natalie, Karlene, Riley, Kat, Regina, Izzy, Nyoka, Dominic, Frances, Cameron, Gloria & Jordan
About a year ago, I posted on our blog the announcement of Isabelle, the daughter of Regina & Joe. Well now she's one & we had some fun. Tons of food, fun & nonstop entertainment was had by all at her birthday bash last weekend. Here are a few pictures for you to enjoy.
Congrats Regina & Joe, she's a beautiful little girl.
New buddies, Riley & Dominic
"Tough Guy, Riley."
Aunt Kathy & Star Princess Izzy
The future: Mr. & Mrs. Dominic Duong (just kidding)
"Okay mom, let's go shopping."
"Hey, Isabelle. Thanks for inviting me to this hopping party."
"Okay mom, let's go shopping."Saturday, March 17, 2007
My New Year
Okay, so you've been given a history lesson on the Chinese New Year. So I will spare you any further agony & share w/you a few pictures of my first official New Year's w/my father's side of the family.
This year the New Year started Sunday, February 18th. Mommy, Daddy & I traveled up to Los Angeles where my Co hai & Co ba live. We met up w/my grandparents and went to a street fair a few blocks away.
My grandparents gave me my very 1st red envelop gift (of which will be placed in my account), and I was able to wear the traditional New Years costume from my father's native country. My grandparents gave it to me for Christmas. Hope you enjoy my pictures. Sorry there's only a few, I don't sit still to long for pictures these days. I just have a short attention span, but my father says I have ADD.
My grandparents gave me my very 1st red envelop gift (of which will be placed in my account), and I was able to wear the traditional New Years costume from my father's native country. My grandparents gave it to me for Christmas. Hope you enjoy my pictures. Sorry there's only a few, I don't sit still to long for pictures these days. I just have a short attention span, but my father says I have ADD.
Your pal,
Dominic
You did get my good side, didn't you?
Just for me! My first red envelope.
Oh boy! Thanks for my gifts, Ong Noi & Ba Noi.
Mommy, me & the pig.
My 1st Super Cross
Let this race started, oh, they already did. My bad.
Sorry everyone that it's taken me awhile to post the pictures of my very 1st Super Cross. However, I'm still very little & need lots of help working the computer. Here's my story.
Picture it Saturday, February 17th, 2007, Qualcomm Stadium. There's lots of people, vendors and food. I got to do a lot of running around before we settled down in our seats, yippee. I saw one of the new 2007 Toyota Tundra's, even got to sit in it. Then we were off to check out cool new dirt bikes & finally last stop, was our seats (oh, no).
The event started w/a major fireworks display, the national anthem of which everyone stood. Then the announcer introduced the riders and the race began. Okay, so I am only so little, so naturally I couldn't sit still long. So I bounced from mommy's lap to daddy's & back again. All the while I was flirting w/everyone around us. The bikers were awesome too, but everytime the race started there was always someone who wipped out around the first turn. During the half time little kids, a few years older than me, were able to ride the track. Mommy & daddy promised that someday I'll be able to ride a bike, dad says it's loads of fun.
I decided that I was getting a little hungry so daddy went to buy us hot dogs, pretzels and water to "wash it down with." Oh boy, my first stadium hot dog & pretzel. Do I have the best parents or what!?!
I continued to watch the bikers and flirt and finally came the last race. I held out as long as I could, but my little eyes were getting so heavy. I just couldn't hold them up any longer and before I knew it I was fast asleep on mommy's lap, which was quite comfortable. Hey, who knew that the last race lasted for 15 laps. Someone should worn a person of my size next time. I don't remember much after I fell asleep, so please enjoy my pictures.
Love you all,
Dominic
Dominic
P.S. Can anyone tell me who won?
Looks pretty crowded down there.
They flew by in a blur.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Chuc Mung Nam Moi...
If you're wondering what, "Chuc Mung Nam Moi,"means, it is Happy New Year Vietnamese style. This is the year of the pig or boar. If you were born in the years; 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, then you're a pig or a boar. Until traditional American zodiacs, Vietnamese and Chinese zodiacs are every 12 years. The zodiacs area as follows; rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, roaster, dog, and boar. And every year, the New Year follows under a diffferent date. As far as tradition and cultures go, there is a lot of preparation, time and work that goes into event. Here are the symbols of the New Year, "Tet."
I know it is long but you'll get a better understanding. Enjoy.
Cay Neu
Cay neu is a bamboo pole (New Year's Tree) stripped of its leaves except for a tuft on top. Red paper is used to decorate the tree, which is planted outside the house during the Tet holiday. The cay neu has Taoist origins and holds talismanic objects that clang in the breeze to attract good spirits and repel evil ones. On the very top, they frequently place a paper symbol of yin and yang, the two principal forces of the universe. Sometimes a colorful paper carp flag will fly from the top. The carp (or sometimes a horse) is the vehicle on which the Kitchen God travels to make his report. This tree is more common in the countryside now than in the city. It is ceremonially removed after the seventh day of Tet.
Hoa Mai
While Peach tree is preferred in the North, Hoa Mai is more commonly used for this ceremony in the South because of the warm weather. Hoa Mai is a small, yellow flowering plant that is used for decoration during Tet with the meanings of prosperity and well-being for the family. The value of these flowers is determined by the number of petals - the more petals, the more expensive the flower.
Kumquat Trees
Kumquat trees about two or three feet tall are carefully selected and prominently displayed during Tet. To carefully choose a kumquat bush, the buyer must pay attention to the symmetrical shape, to the leaves and to the color and shape of the fruit. The bushes have been precisely pruned to display ripe deep orange fruits with smooth clear thin skin shining like little suns or gold coins on the first day of the lunar new year. Other fruits must still be green to ripen later. This represents the wish that wealth will come to you now and in the future. The leaves must be thick and dark green with some light green sprouts. The fruits represent the grandparents, the flowers represent parents, the buds represent children and the light green leaves represent grandchildren. The tree thus symbolizes many generations. Guests will caress the light green leaves about to sprout and compliment the discerning host who chose so carefully.
The "Mam Ngu Qua"
The "five-fruit tray" on the ancestral altar during the Tet holiday symbolizes the admiration and gratitude of the Vietnamese to Heaven and Earth and their ancestors, and demonstrates their aspiration for a life of plenty. As one theory goes, the five fruits are symbolic of the five basic elements of oriental philosophy: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Some people believe that the five fruits are symbols of the five fingers of a man's hand that is used to produce physical wealth for his own use and to make offerings to his ancestors. However, in a simpler way, the five fruits represent the quintessence that Heaven and Earth bless humans. This is one of the general perceptions of life of the Vietnamese, which is "When taking fruit, you should think of the grower". Today, the tray may contain five or more fruits, in the form of a pyramid like before or in an different shape. Regardless, it is still called the Mam Ngu Qua, the five-fruit tray.
Fire Crackers
The most exciting element in the celebration of Tet is the lighting of trang phao (fire crackers). These explosions are believed to drive off ghosts and evil spirits and leave good luck in their place. As thousands of households simultaneously partake in this fantastic part of Tet, the level of volume and excitement rises to a fury. This level of emotion is the most memorable part of Tet and also the part which makes it such a marvelous experience. However, firecrackers are no longer used as the government banned them in 1995.
Banh Chung
It is a square cake, wrapped in banana leaves and tied with laces of flexible bamboo slivers. It is a very rich food for the interior contains a filling of bean paste to which may be added small bits of pork meat, both fat and lean. This filling, which is amply seasoned, is pressed between layers of glutinous rice. Its square shape is considered a symbol of the thankfulness of the Vietnamese people for the great abundance of the Earth, which has supplied them with nutritious food throughout the four seasons of the year.
Cau Doi (Parallels)
Composing, challenging and displaying parallels represents an elegant cultural activity of the Vietnamese. On the occasion of Tet, parallels are written on red paper and hung on both sides of the gate, the pillars or the ancestral altar. Each pair of parallels has an equal number of words with contrasting or corresponding meanings and lines of verses. They show a keen intelligence, perception of nature and social life, uphold morality and a yearning for the well-being of all people. The red is symbolic of auspicious and powerful vitality, according to popular belief. Mingling with the green of the banh chung, the pink of the peach blooms, the yellow of the hoa mai, and the red of the parallels is sure to make the Spring warmer and cozier.
Xin Xam
After Giao Thua, the last day of the lunar calendar year, many Buddhists go to their favorite pagoda to pray for a good year and to get a fortune reading for the whole year. Each person will get a chance to shake the tube that contains reading sticks, until one stick falls out of the tube. In the case that many sticks drop out of the tube, that person will have to repeat the process. Afterwards, usually the monks will translate the meanings of the reading.
I know it is long but you'll get a better understanding. Enjoy.
Cay Neu
Cay neu is a bamboo pole (New Year's Tree) stripped of its leaves except for a tuft on top. Red paper is used to decorate the tree, which is planted outside the house during the Tet holiday. The cay neu has Taoist origins and holds talismanic objects that clang in the breeze to attract good spirits and repel evil ones. On the very top, they frequently place a paper symbol of yin and yang, the two principal forces of the universe. Sometimes a colorful paper carp flag will fly from the top. The carp (or sometimes a horse) is the vehicle on which the Kitchen God travels to make his report. This tree is more common in the countryside now than in the city. It is ceremonially removed after the seventh day of Tet.
Hoa Mai
While Peach tree is preferred in the North, Hoa Mai is more commonly used for this ceremony in the South because of the warm weather. Hoa Mai is a small, yellow flowering plant that is used for decoration during Tet with the meanings of prosperity and well-being for the family. The value of these flowers is determined by the number of petals - the more petals, the more expensive the flower.
Kumquat Trees
Kumquat trees about two or three feet tall are carefully selected and prominently displayed during Tet. To carefully choose a kumquat bush, the buyer must pay attention to the symmetrical shape, to the leaves and to the color and shape of the fruit. The bushes have been precisely pruned to display ripe deep orange fruits with smooth clear thin skin shining like little suns or gold coins on the first day of the lunar new year. Other fruits must still be green to ripen later. This represents the wish that wealth will come to you now and in the future. The leaves must be thick and dark green with some light green sprouts. The fruits represent the grandparents, the flowers represent parents, the buds represent children and the light green leaves represent grandchildren. The tree thus symbolizes many generations. Guests will caress the light green leaves about to sprout and compliment the discerning host who chose so carefully.
The "Mam Ngu Qua"
The "five-fruit tray" on the ancestral altar during the Tet holiday symbolizes the admiration and gratitude of the Vietnamese to Heaven and Earth and their ancestors, and demonstrates their aspiration for a life of plenty. As one theory goes, the five fruits are symbolic of the five basic elements of oriental philosophy: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Some people believe that the five fruits are symbols of the five fingers of a man's hand that is used to produce physical wealth for his own use and to make offerings to his ancestors. However, in a simpler way, the five fruits represent the quintessence that Heaven and Earth bless humans. This is one of the general perceptions of life of the Vietnamese, which is "When taking fruit, you should think of the grower". Today, the tray may contain five or more fruits, in the form of a pyramid like before or in an different shape. Regardless, it is still called the Mam Ngu Qua, the five-fruit tray.
Fire Crackers
The most exciting element in the celebration of Tet is the lighting of trang phao (fire crackers). These explosions are believed to drive off ghosts and evil spirits and leave good luck in their place. As thousands of households simultaneously partake in this fantastic part of Tet, the level of volume and excitement rises to a fury. This level of emotion is the most memorable part of Tet and also the part which makes it such a marvelous experience. However, firecrackers are no longer used as the government banned them in 1995.
Banh Chung
It is a square cake, wrapped in banana leaves and tied with laces of flexible bamboo slivers. It is a very rich food for the interior contains a filling of bean paste to which may be added small bits of pork meat, both fat and lean. This filling, which is amply seasoned, is pressed between layers of glutinous rice. Its square shape is considered a symbol of the thankfulness of the Vietnamese people for the great abundance of the Earth, which has supplied them with nutritious food throughout the four seasons of the year.
Cau Doi (Parallels)
Composing, challenging and displaying parallels represents an elegant cultural activity of the Vietnamese. On the occasion of Tet, parallels are written on red paper and hung on both sides of the gate, the pillars or the ancestral altar. Each pair of parallels has an equal number of words with contrasting or corresponding meanings and lines of verses. They show a keen intelligence, perception of nature and social life, uphold morality and a yearning for the well-being of all people. The red is symbolic of auspicious and powerful vitality, according to popular belief. Mingling with the green of the banh chung, the pink of the peach blooms, the yellow of the hoa mai, and the red of the parallels is sure to make the Spring warmer and cozier.
Xin Xam
After Giao Thua, the last day of the lunar calendar year, many Buddhists go to their favorite pagoda to pray for a good year and to get a fortune reading for the whole year. Each person will get a chance to shake the tube that contains reading sticks, until one stick falls out of the tube. In the case that many sticks drop out of the tube, that person will have to repeat the process. Afterwards, usually the monks will translate the meanings of the reading.
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