Not Like Yesterday...

It's true... except for getting up early... today is not going to be like yesterday... 

Now, to back up... we ran around and got everything done... what's everything?

Abby did the web check in. We went and looked for those last few items, including a prepaid gift card that she can use in Brazil. We called Copa and asked about the extra baggage. We will just have to purchase that at the check in counter. It will be the same price -- 70US$.

We finished the load of laundry, got everything folded and packed and weighed! 

Then we hung out with Missy and Wyatt. 

Country Cowboy as a send-off for Abby... The food was great and the dancing was fun. We left at 8:45 as we wanted to be there four hours before take-off. I had to drive! Abby navigated. LAX was crazy... We parked and walked Abby over. Check in went well... every piece was perfect -- 22.8! And we sat and talked and got Alan online. At 10:45, we said goodbye... WAHHHHHHH... It was like last year... saying goodbye at the train station after attending church in Freiburg... It was also not like last year... I know God has her in His mighty hands... The drive back home seemed lonely... I dropped Isaiah off at Annie's. He was going to hang out with Kurtis. I came back and tidied up as much as possible and stayed awake until 1:30. Abby had gone through Customs and boarded!

At around 2:30, Isaiah was tapping on the back screen door. He was back. Kurtis was too tired or 'something' and didn't stay up much after he came back from Country Cowboy. That was nice to have Isaiah back... 

I got up early this morning... put away the bedding and the donations... ran the dishwasher... and went for a run. Isaiah got up and wiped down the car. We then went to Von's and the 99Cents Store. Kurtis and Annie had work. Annie will be working until 1pm and Kurtis will get off at 4pm. Angel Go is to be here around 2pm. We will have ramen together. 

Annie will be driving us to the airport tonight. We hope to leave around 8:30 and be there by 9:05! Three hours before take off... and she will do a curbside drop off. The parking last night was 16US$! WHAT???

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Not Like Yesterday!

I was up early... That's been the story for this entire 'vacation'... 

Then the kids were up and we were out of the house... We had a 'shopping' route -- Walmart, Salvation Army, Ralph's, Von's, CVS... There were specific items that we were looking for -- socks for Abby, dress shirts for Isaiah and PRIME in powder form!

We didn't get to hit all those places as Kurtis called... heading to the beach earlier than we had originally planned! We did get the socks and the dress shirts...

We were at the beach by 11am and KR said we'd be there for about two hours... So I ran for 1.53 hour and hit 17kilometers. I didn't want to get lost and not make it back, so I just ran back and forth along the boardwalk. I could have just kept running north! The weather was warm with a delightful breeze. I hope to do this again!

We were home and made lunch here... and Isaiah took a nap and Abby and I started the packing process. We will definitely buy an extra luggage!

At 5:45, we headed out to Tom's Tacos with KR and Annie. It was Taco Tuesday, but this place had no discount! WHAT??? The burritos were not big and were expensive! We brought things back to Annie's to eat! And then Tina, a friend from Taiwan who lives in Mission Viejo, came over with her kids and hubby and we hung out! She even took Abby to a boba tea place and splurged! She also brought cheesecake and strawberries! She left at 10 and I had prayer time from 10-11pm. 

I cleaned up and was in bed by 11:30! I was so ready for bed!

Thus, I didn't blog!

This morning, I was up early... and had my time with Jesus and put in a load of wash. Tomorrow, I will run the dishwasher!

I also checked in for Isaiah and I! We didn't get the two back row seats, but we did get one aisle and I'll be sitting in the middle!

We have a lot on our list today... and Missy will be coming over... I hope we will have everything done before she comes for a visit! And tonight we are going out to dinner and dancing and then to the airport!

Tomorrow will be our final day before Isaiah and I head to the airport. I have most of our items packed and ready to go... And I hope to get a few of my sewing projects finished! Angel Go will come to visit tomorrow! 

And as for what I expect when I get home... 

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

A Day To Relax!

After my morning time, Annie came over and picked me up... we went to the beach. KR and Annie walked while I ran... I didn't finish my 10k and we came home. So, I finished up my run near New Horizon. Running at the beach boardwalk was much better... 

The kids were heading out with Kurtis and Corina. First, they wanted to have lunch at In N Out, but the lines were way too long. So they went to Jolly Bee, a Filipino burger shop. They bought the food and went to a nearby park and had a delightful picnic. The weather was perfect. I stayed home and read and rested. I was also trying to figure out what to do about Abby's account. If her social security comes in by Wednesday, we will go and open an account for her. If not, then besides cash, we will see about getting her an account under my account and she will also get some reals. 

By 5pm, the kids were back. They all went to the Jacuzzi. And then Annie picked us up at 5:55 for dinner at Black Bear Diner. We had a feast. We got to meet Diamond's parents. Diamond is married to Will. 

After the dinner, we hit the ping pong room at New Horizon. How fun was that. We only played for about 20 minutes.

Isaiah and Abby went to hang out with Kurtis.

I came home to blog and get things a bit organized and then read some more.

Alan was back in Taipei, trying to navigate the hospital, taking my mom to see the doctor and get her legs x-rayed. There is nothing wrong... she's just old... but she's very healthy. The doctor tells me that every time!

They will see about giving her some prescribed calcium pills and so hopefully, she will go to the Day Care Center tomorrow!

Because we thought she might be dehydrated, Alan and the helper gave her lots of water. She peed through all the pads and diapers and even to the mattress. Alan had to take the mattress to air out up on the rooftop terrace! I can't imagine what I will be returning home to... how much 'work' there will be for me to do! Thinking about it blows my mind... honestly, it isn't going to be worth being in the States for the two weeks... But being able to see Abby is pretty special... Those of you who have read the blog leading up to my departure, you know how much I had to get done to have things 'prepared' before I left...and now... I will land with my feet running, trying to clean everything and put everything away and maybe even having to arrange extra help!

I keep my focus on Jesus... 

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

And More Church!

Yes, it's true... I went to another church this morning for their 9am service.

I got up early and Abby had found another church. So, we went at 8:45. The service started and it was quite upbeat, but since it was their Vision Building Weekend, all they talked about was the 'numbers' and giving!

We left just a little earlier, before the last song. 

The gang was home, making sandwiches and they left at 11:30 for the Padres game that started at 1:10.

Mom Bea, Alden and I stayed home, had lunch and played Hand & Foot. Alden was the big winner... I lost but was very close to Mom Bea. My last hand helped me to keep the game close.

I loaded up the car, so that we can leave as soon as the kids get back from the game. Yes, I am heading up back to Torrance. And I must remember to do online check in for both Abby and Isaiah and I. And we need to decide if we will add a luggage for Abby! She has 'gathered' more items, and maybe we can bring things to donate to the Thrift Shop in Vitoria. We will see how much it cost for a 23kg extra bag! Isaiah and I are fine... we don't have enough stuff... but I still want to go to Costco to buy a few items. So, by Thursday, I will have four 23kgs bags ready... plus a carry on for each of us!

And Alan called. It was only 6am, so we didn't know how Mom was doing. But I lined the Day Care Center and told them that Mom would not be coming. I also lined the agency and asked that they lady stay for two hours. Alan had asked a lady from the church to come over as he had class. This week, Alan will have class on Monday and Wednesday. He will be home the rest of the days. So, we just need to get through this week. I will be home by Saturday. BUT, if Mom is lethargic, I am in trouble as I have things going on all of July and August, speaking at HOP and GEM, at two different churches. I also have my day at the Ministry of Education and tutoring. If Mom is home, or if I need to take Mom to see the doctor, I will have to cancel my tutoring. I also have Bible study on Tuesday, morning and evening, and I will have to cancel those as well! Isaiah will be working full time. Alan also has his missions trip in mid August for 17 days!

Yes, this did not take God by surprise, so I am sure He will carry me through.

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Church & More Church!

I got up early and went for a run before helping Mom Bea with her breakfast. I made French Toast! YUMMY!

I went 11.5k and the weather was great! 

After breakfast, Mom Bea and I went to sit outside and Alden was back. We helped with the yard work! And it was getting hot!

We had lunch at home and then went to see the Van's Shoes Store and Boot Barn! We did not buy anything!

I even had time for a nap!

Then it was church and church... and maybe tomorrow more church!

First, it was Shadow Mountain! Then I went to Foothills! The churches were very different!

We came home for dinner, trying to finish up leftovers!

Abby and Paige went Line Dancing, so they only went to the 5pm Shadow Mountain Service! Tomorrow morning Abby and I will go to another church at 9am, Awaken Church! 

What a weekend full of church services!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Big Game Time!

Yes, I was up early... and I did not go out for a run even though it was such a nice cool morning. 

After fixing some breakfast, I took Mom Bea, Isaiah and Abby to the thrift store. We spent about 100US$ and bought suits for Isaiah, as well as shorts, shirts, shoes and pants for Abby. It was so great! We went to McAlistair and I wanted to look again at the books, but I didn't. Then it was onto Empire and Amvet! We were back by 12:30 and had a light lunch.

From about 1:30 to 5:30, we played Hand & Foot -- two teams of three. Alden, Abby and I won against Mom Bea, McKenna and Isaiah. It was a very long but absolutely fun game. The score was very close! It's a great game... 

Alden made burgers and hot dogs for dinner. YUMMY!

And then Isaiah, Abby and Paige went to see the sunset. I went for a walk and talked to Missy! 

The kids went bowling after the sunset!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Early Morning Bible Study and New Century Buffet!

Yes, I was up early... to have time with Jesus and then Bible study at 6am. It was great!

Then I went to return an item at Ross and helped to clean around the house!

At 12noon, we went to eat lunch at New Century! Alan found this place, which is a lot like VIP. That was a place that Alan's dad loved... buffet and Chinese food! McKenna, Josh, Alden, Mom Bea, Isaiah, Abby and I went. It was 13.49 a person, which is now considered a bargain! The food was great! Abby really enjoyed having Chinese food -- pot stickers, wonton soup, sweet and sour soup, fried noodles... We got back at 3pm and I cut up the fruit and made a salad! Things were going bad as Alden bought so much food and we are going out to eat! After that, I fell asleep!

What a great nap!

By 5pm, the weather was cooler so... I went out for a run! 11k! I'm trying to take different routes, but no matter where I go, there are hills! And many places don't have sidewalk, so I have to be careful!

After coming back, I cleaned Mom Bea's bathroom and the other bathroom. And we were so full that we just ate fruit! The fridge is still way too full!

Mom Bea, Isaiah and I played Rummique! Josh went out with a friend from work and Paige and Abby went Line Dancing, yet again! Alden went golfing! Andrew had to work the night shift! We didn't see him all day because he really needed to sleep!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

What A Day!

I had to set my alarm as I had to be up at 5:30! I was afraid that I'd oversleep as people were coming home at 1:30am! I'm sleeping in the living room!

After my time with Jesus, I got the kids up and I drove them to meet up with Uncle Albert, as he was taking them over to Balboa Park to play tennis. I had to drive! And there was a traffic accident, which slowed everything down. But I got there by 7:29! And after dropping them off, I said a prayer for God to guide me home as the freeway right there is very complicated, like they tell you to go take I-8 West in order to connect to I-8 East while going on the 163! As I looked up, there on the phone booth was a handmade sign: Psalm 91. I knew God used that sign to speak to me! It was not a random sign! So, I got out of the parking lot and headed back to El Cajon to pick up Mom Bea! I was back by 8:30. At 9:30, we went to meet them for breakfast at Denny's! We got them at 10:09 and they had just arrived at 10:08. We love Denny's... but it's gotten expensive! Even the 55+ meals are 8.99!

Albert had to go to work and we headed out at 11:30 for Food for Less. I needed to buy flavored creamer as I had used up all that's at the house! Then it was Ross, TJ Maxx, McAlistair Thrift Store, 99Cents Store and Chase Bank! Wow! At least they were all within 5 minutes from each other! In fact, Ross and TJ Maxx were in the same shopping complex as were 99Cents and Chase! At McAlistair, Isaiah got a pair of dress shoes for 12.50 and I got my tap dancing shoes for 10$. I also bought more books... I couldn't resist! They were 25cents each!

We were home by 4pm. At 5pm, I went to buy uniforms for a friend's kid who will be attending the school here in El Cajon. When it got cooler, I went for a run!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Ham's & Heat & Hills

I actually slept until 7am today... Wow... What a treat! They were watching the Padres Game so I didn't get to sleep until after 12midnight!

I had time with Jesus and hung around, thinking it would be cool enough to run in the afternoon... 

We helped Grandma sort through her jewelries... and then we got ready to go have lunch at Tom Ham's. It was delicious. Three people ordered fish and chips, and then two orders of ceviche and shrimp cocktail, two orders of blackened salmon sandwich and one order of lobster roll. We brought home the leftovers. We drove home the long way, through downtown San Diego and there are so many camps of homeless people. 

We got home and I did my run... up and down the hills in the heat! I actually ran 12k! But it was hot. I had to stop at the 99cents Store to get a drink of water.

We were too full for dinner.

Abby and Paige went to Line Dancing. No entrance fees on Monday to Thursday! 

The rest of us stayed home! There was another Padres game on TV.

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Sunday & Monday...

So... Sunday was CICLAVIA, a bike ride around an interesting neighborhood... And there were lots of booth at different sections of the bike ride. The route was only 6 miles... And Annie had us in costumes... we had on tutus, grass skirts, and capes. We were absolutely noticeable... The ride was so much fun... I can't even describe the neighborhood we were at... There is a need for Jesus... 

Annie and KR then ordered delicious bins of fried chicken and we ate at home. Most everyone watched the John Wick, 4, movie, but I took a nap. I was to drive down to San Diego.

We left at 6:50, stopping for gas at Costco first. And we were in SD by 9:30. Abby navigated as she was the only one who had been here.

Alden and Mom Bea were awake... as were McKenna and Paige! Andrew was at work and Josh was out, partying! It is a beautiful house... so spacious!

We finally went to bed at around 12:15 and I was up at 5:30. It was nice and cool and quiet. I then went for a run, just up and down the Main Street. I had to run five times, back and forth, to hit 10k. Tomorrow I will try another route... maybe!

I got back and Mom Bea was up and we had breakfast together. Abby and Paige went to the beach and then Line Dancing. Isaiah hung out with Grandma, chatting. We learned how to play Hand & Foot after several rounds of Rummique. Hand & Foot is a great game.

Alden made a delicious dinner: meatloaf, mashed potatoes, & salad. We all helped to put the dinner together. 

Tomorrow we plan to have lunch out at Tom Hank's... and we will see what else we will do... maybe go and visit a thrift store. We do need to buy dress shoes for Isaiah. We will see... Everyone works, so, it will just be the five of us!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

A Fantastic Saturday...

Well... after not sleeping much the other night, I had a super duper great night of rest... I slept on the floor on top of a mat instead of in the bed... that mattress was really way too soft! I told Alan, "It was like sleeping on a water bed!"

I got up early... had my time with God... and then had a leisurely breakfast, while waiting for my kids to get up. They wanted to go play tennis and I wanted to go for a run. Annie came over to get all the stuff I had sorted as KR was going to drive over to the homeless ministry and drop off the HUGE box of donation. So, Annie drove them to Hickory... but the court was busy... so they went to Wilson. Annie drove back to Hickory, where I was running and parked the car. She gave me the keys and told me to pick them up at 9:30. Perfect! That gave me almost an hour. So, I ran over to Wilson Park and told the kids to meet me at the end of the Farmer's Market where I would be picking them up. I ran back to Hickory and ran around a couple of times. I didn't hit 10k as I wanted to give myself plenty of time to drive over there. I was there, but the kids were late! 

We went back to Nadine Circle and they packed their stuff while I took a quick shower. We were at Annie's but Pam and Suz were running late. Pam texted and said that there was an accident on the road. Suz needed to talk to a young man who they have taken under their wings. Once everyone arrived, there was plenty of catching up. Suz, Pam and I finally took off... and since Cheesecake Factory had a long wait, we decided to hit the Ethiopian Restaurant that Suz had found not too far from Annie's. How absolutely delightful! 

We had a feast!

Then we went over to the Redondo Beach area and found a splendid restaurant for coffee and desserts! Oh YUMMY!

Suz and Pam dropped me off at 4:40 for church at South Bay Community.

Annie, KR, Isaiah and Abby were a bit late... Pastor Gary was giving one of two messages as he is about to retire. What a fantastic service... It was super special to be worshipping with my sweet Abby. And the message had a focus on our Heavenly Father... We are special because we are children of our Heavenly Father. 

After the service I had a chance to talk to Sheryl, the Pastor's wife... Pastor Gary graduated from Pepperdine University, the Malibu campus, where he came to know Jesus and that totally transformed his life.

We then went to drop off Isaiah and Abby at a party that Corina, Kurtis' friend, was hosting. It was a small get together of about 10-12 people. Annie and I came back home and I had time to get things together as we leave tomorrow night for San Diego!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Only By God's Strength...

What a day this has been... 

So, I was up every hour, even though I didn't get to bed until 11:30. Yes, I stayed up until 11:30.

Annie picked us up from Terminl 1. We walked from Bradley to Terminal 1. 

Dinner was ready. YUMMY! I separated what goes to Annie and helped to organize the shelves so that I can fit all her stuff.

Then we were over at my mom's old place and I was unpacking, separating what goes to Abby and those in San Diego. When that was done, I started looking through all the items Annie had been gathering for me... clothes, shoes, etc. I also asked Abby to go through her stuff. We packed what is already 20kgs for Abby and I have one box all filled up!

So, by 11:30, I was ready for bed.

Finally, at 4:33, I decided just to get up, have my time with God and then went for a run. Refreshing... Energizing... 

I then got ready as Annie picked us up to go to DMV. Even with an appointment, there was a wait. But I will be getting my renewed license... probably after I leave to go back to Taiwan. We made a stop at Aldi for cake mixes and then went to Chase. Well... is it possible for my kids to open an account? How many hoops are there?

First they needed two pieces of ID. Or they needed a proof of residence... They will not take two passports. So, we drove back to the DMV... well, is it possible for my kids to get a California ID? And the answer is NO... you need to pieces of ID and you can't use two passports... So, we went back to Chase. They are willing to take a hard copy of the social security card. BUT, we don't have the hard copy. Oh... we can go to the Social Security Office in Torrance. They close at 4pm. And we went... without an appointment. We got a replacement card... but how long does it take to get it? 7-14 days... Will Abby get the card before she leaves for Brazil? We are praying. If not, we will go with our original option 1 -- give her enough cash to cover her expenses until January of 2024. Then Alan will go to Brazil and bring her more cash... and she won't be able to get her account open until she comes back to the States.

So... this day has been extremely by God's strength... because I have had to just push through... and I am even driving!

Tonight, we had dinner at Black Bear Diner... YUMMY!

And we worked on cutting up a pair of pants to make them into shorts... 

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Not In A Rush... Unbelievable!

For having to leave for the States, it was a tremendously restful day!

I got up super early... and after my time with God, I went for my 10k. I even saw Alan. He was at the tennis courts, but since the ground was wet, he decided to go for a run!

I would have liked to run longer... but I had to rush back for Mom care.

I got Mom off and then start checking on all items -- meals in the fridge, taking down the clothes and getting the drawers fully organized, packing up all items and checking our passports. I even had time to clean out the fridge a bit and show Alan how to use the washing machine. It's in Chinese and he has not used it EVER!

I walked him through the food situation and we had our meals... We were going to hang out with Judy, but they had meetings to attend.

Alan taped up the boxes and they were all under! YEAH! 

We got to talk to Abby. Yes, she has arrived in Torrance... after taking the bus in the wrong direction. She had to borrow the use of a cell phone... but Annie was finally able to pick her up! What a fiasco!

Alan drove us to the airport and since I had done online check in, we were able to get our bags in at 4pm and went up to the food court and just hung out. We bought McDonald's as Burger King closed at 3pm. I also got two tea eggs... So yummy!

Our flight is at 19:20 so we will go through Customs at around 6pm!

It's a direct flight... and we will arrive at 16:20 on Thursday... Annie is going to pick us up!

I am not sure if I will blog for the next 15 days... We shall see! I am sure I will have time as I also hope to work on my talks for July and August!

So far here is a rough schedule:

Thursday, arrive in LAX

Friday, DMV (I must renew my license) and we will see about Abby's bank situation

Saturday, Pam and Suz, church, Angel Go and the kids will be hanging out with Kurtis

Sunday, biking with Annie et el. Head to San Diego in the evening!

Monday - Sunday, hanging out with Mom Bea and Alden and his family!

    The kids will go to an afternoon Padres game on Sunday June 25th, then we will head back up to Torrance!

Monday, June 26th, Annie is arranging a meal with William's in laws

Tuesday - Wednesday, shopping for Abby or/and Isaiah and packing up for Abby

Wednesday night -- AIRPORT to drop Abby off

Thursday night -- AIRPORT -- Isaiah and I

Saturday at 05:20, we should be back at the Taoyuan International Airport! Alan will be picking us up!

Daily Lovely Insight:

This is so true!!!!!!

Seek Him First!

Setting Things Up...

It was an early morning, but I didn't go for my usual run until after Mom left. 

Then it was out to lunch with a student who is back from the states. I wanted to meet her husband and kids. We wanted to hang out as long as possible. 

After coming home, I had to run errands: drop off tutoring materials, pick up a book for Isaiah, pay a bill, check our old house... then it was housework: a load of laundry, food in the fridge... Alan weighed my heaviest piece: 23.4! Yeah! 

Tonight, we had dinner with Judy and Jon and their kids. Isaiah played tennis with the alumni. Then I had my Bible study group and prayer time... What a day!

Daily Lovely Insight:

The thought that God speaks and summons the earth... and earth obeys... we need to obey when God speaks and summons us!

Seek Him First!

Judy Is Visiting!

I woke up super early... again... I went for a run and then got Mom ready and off.

Then it was cleaning and writing notes as to what Alan will remember to bring to whom... and off I went to ChiaTe.

Yes, I picked up my order, but I wanted to buy two more items that could not be ordered on line! And guess what? THEY WERE ALL OUT????? Is that insane? It was 10:31!

Well... I scootered back and went to this guy's brother's store. I bought their items... I wonder if they are any good... the price was a bit more... YIKES! But I put down my credit card and bought them! WITH MY EYES CLOSED.

Then it was off to lunch with Judy and Jon and their kids. They wanted beef noodles and I found the beef noodles that's Michellin 1 Star and reported from CNN as they were able to sell one bowl of noodles for 10,000NT$ or 324US$. That's actually on their menu. We did not buy it. But I didn't think their 20US$ bowl was that great... I would not go there again! Their portion was small and the taste not that outstanding, especially considering the price of each item! 

And then we went to the park for a bike ride. A short one since I had to be back for my mom... and everyone was too tired. It was a hot bike ride! So, instead, we went to the movies... YEAH... Food court for dinner and Guardians of the Galaxy MOVIE! I've been wanting to watch this movie... 

Everyone else went to the Food Court first, and then I scootered over at7:45, after Mom went to bed!

The movie was great! Absolutely exciting... 

Daily Lovely Insight:

Psalm 42:11

Seek Him First!

Counting Down...

I'm getting BUSIER!

The weather was so nice today... I went out for a run after Mom took off... I would have liked to have ran a bit longer... It was like a perfect spring day... but I had things to get done!

Tutored at 2pm, which went long. She wants me to tutor her kids this summer! So, I had to gather some materials to show her and I will have to drop off things before I leave on Thursday. We will start class on July 10th. 

I rushed home and got dinner started. 

I decided to skip tap dancing class... too much to do! And I was a bit too tired!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I'm trying to follow this simple truth!

Seek Him First!

ChiaTe Pineapple Cakes... ILLUSIVE!

Well... I thought I'd go at 7pm tonight... after church... but I read the reviews and found out many things about this shop:

1. It only has one branch in Taipei. They don't sell it to Carrefour or anywhere... you can buy them at the airport, but that's only the original pineapple cakes.

2. By 11am, they are sold out of most of their popular items and thus, the line is shorter. The only item you can get will be the original pineapple cakes, if there are some. Yes, they might be sold out of those as well.

3. They do provide updates online about their 'line situation' and from the time they open to 7pm, the line is the same: LONG!

So... I tried again to call and to register online. I finally succeeded. I order the items and will go to the store to pick up, hoping to buy some of the other popular items, such as their famous sun cakes! Yes, they limit what you can order online! Aren't they smart?!?!?! Don't ask how much I spent!?!?! I bought enough to share with all of you who might be reading this blog! And you can tell me if it was worth the trouble!

I did walk on the treadmill and watched the end of the French Women's Final. Iga won!

We went to church and Isaiah led worship.

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

A "More Restful Than Usual" Saturday

I was up early... I had time with Jesus and left the house... heading to the ChiaTe Pineapple Cakes Store. I got there at 8:29 and they open at 8:30. I was greeted with a shocking sight: the Disneyland line! I went there at 10:30, the line was long. I went there at 7pm and the line was long! When is it ever a short line? 

I didn't want to wait, so I scooter back, stopping at Costco, which was open at 8:45. I bought more milk tea and package of raisins! And I got the coffee beans done! YEAH!

I was home by 9:15! Isaiah was still sleeping and I got started with Mom care!

Alan came home and I took off for a run. I was hoping for rain, but nothing!

Isaiah met up with Vikki.

I came back and grabbed my World Gym bag and scootered over for... sauna and shower and a few machines!

In the afternoon, I napped! Alan was sitting at the dining room table with Mom. She enjoyed her meals and her snacks and her fruit. I just got up from time to time and fixed her some food, then went back to the sofa!

I finished packing... except for the pineapple cakes! That's all I need to buy!

So... I met up with another friend for dinner... beef noodles. It's the gal who always treats me to the nicest restaurant. Since the restaurant closes at 8, I thought I'd leave a bit earlier and go and try to see how long the line would be at the Pineapple Cake Store. But we just talked and she bought goodies for Alan at the bakery there... and I didn't get home until 8:45. The restaurant never kicked us out! It was so nice to sit and catch up with her. I will have to go to the Pineapple Cake Shop on another day!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

One More Date in June!

Yes, with me taking off next Thursday, this is our 'last' date... and we were both exhausted.

Isaiah went out and we were thinking that we'd be picking him up since the party had 'drinking'. Well, he walked home at 3am! ha, ha, ha... but we didn't sleep, waiting to hear from him. He did message us at 1am. 

Alan also had class this morning, so we met up for lunch at 12noon. We had a bit more shopping to do, so we ate at RTMart.

I got up super early and ran. I had to run or else I'd be too exhausted the whole day. I got home, and got Mom off and went to World Gym. Yes, it was for the sauna and shower as I only did a 15 minute workout and went down to Nanking East Road, Section 5 to buy pineapple cakes. To my utter shock, the lines were super long, like the best ride at Disneyland. This was my second attempt. They open at 8:30, so I might have to come down super early. I didn't want to wait in the hot sun, so I just went home. I cleaned up the back balcony, packed up a huge bag of donation, posted it and someone will be coming to pick up tomorrow! YEAH!

At RTMart, I bought instant noodles, milk tea, and other snacks for Abby! Annie... we are bringing TWO boxes, and TWO suitcases and TWO carry on... ha, ha, ha... I thought I'd warn you so you won't be shocked! Not everything is for Annie as Abby had a list of things too!

What am I bringing? Whatever is in the carryon. That's it! 

Tonight, we had dinner at L'Idiot! A treat from Ming Chuan! And the place was EXPENSIVE! Minimum per person was 800NT$! The food was so delicious. We had steak, pork chops, grilled chicken, three kinds of salads, coffee or tea and desserts! I took home some leftovers. Actually, almost everyone had some thing to bring home! I can't imagine how expensive that bill must have been!

After the dinner, I was going to scooter over to Carrefour to grind the coffee beans for church, but it was raining. 

Honestly, to go away for two weeks is a lot of work! All the meals, the pills, the diapers, the clothes, etc. for Mom and the help arranged... It's not easy! And I don't think my two weeks in the states will be a 'retreat'... just to think that I will have to drive! YIKES! 

Daily Lovely Insight:

This verse came up again... it was a God-timed reminder!

Seek Him First!

I Needed This PR DAY!

I got up early... with wishful thinking that I'll go out for a run before the sun starts blaring. After my time with Jesus, I went back to bed. Wow... Not enough! I would just like an entire day to do nothing but sleep.

I got Mom up and ready. She went off, I called to make that appointment for her psych evaluation on July 13th. I put a load of laundry in before getting Mom up. So, it was finished. I hung everything up and called Ms. Hsieh! She had time. So, I scootered over! TWO HOURS! It was 'painful', which means something is not flowing properly. I came home after buying bananas and cucumbers and slept for another two hours. 

It was nice and cloudy outside, so I went for a run. I came back, picked up my bags and went to World Gym. It was more for the shower and sauna, not the workout! I was home and Alan was back to pick up Isaiah's basketball stuff. We prayed together and he took off. Mom was home.

Alan and Isaiah played basketball and then Isaiah met up with his Soochow Tennis friends at 8pm and had dinner! I had dinner ready for Alan. 

This evening, it was nice to be home! NO APPOINTMENTS -- NO PRAYER TIME, NO BIBLE STUDY ON LINE! I decided to pack the last suitcase! Annie, I'm glad you're going to pick us up! The 'stuff' keeps growing! Now, I have two suitcases, two carry ons and one box... and I still have things to buy! Ha, ha, ha.... It's a mother load of stuff!

Daily Lovely Insight:

O Lord, in your strength, I rejoice!

Seek Him First!

Another MOE Day!

Yes... I got up super early and squeezed in a 9k run before getting Mom ready and taking off to MOE.

While on my scooter, my phone started ringing! The gal renting a room at our old apartment was having emotional and mental problems and didn't come home. Many people were very worried about her. It turned out that she checked herself into the hospital. Praise the Lord.

I updated my syllabus for the next eight week of classes and sent that to the supervisor. Then I finished my Bible study. 

Class was great... as always and I had Office Hours! I was so sleepy... but the Lord helped me to press on!

I was out of the Office by 5:10 and headed to World Gym Express. I did just 20 minutes and scootered home!

After cleaning up and putting things away, I ate dinner and Alan fixed my email as it wasn't downloading!

I had tutoring tonight and prayer time!

Alan had gone to school. Isaiah had work and played tennis with the alumni!

I found out that I didn't hit publish last night! WHAT???

So... this is for Wednesday, June 7th.

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Getting Caught Up & Evening Bible Study!

It was hot... I did go out for a run after Mom took off... then I went to World Gym Express for sauna, shower and had time for a few machines. I had to rush because the gal living in our old house locked her keys in her room. I'm glad she gave me a spare. So, I went over to drop that off and went and bought veggies and other groceries.

I got home, had lunch, put everything away and started dinner.

Isaiah had his appointment for a health checkup as part of his new job requirement. When he finished that, he called and we met up at the local post office where he applied for a credit check. Those items should all be ready by next week, which he will send to NanShan!

I baked for MOE and started preparing for my talks.

Isaiah was home and had lunch-- finally. He was hungry!

This evening I had Bible study.

The dinner turned out beautifully!

Daily Lovely Insight:

What? I didn't publish???

This was for Tuesday, June 6th!

This verse popped into my mind as I thought of the fact that I forgot to hit publish yesterday!

Seek Him First!

Whirlwind Day!

I was up super early... again! It's just so hot... so early... 

After Mom went off, I went off at 9am to World Gym and braved the heat... 10.04 k and then showered. I had to help a friend to pick up things. Then I was home to make dinner and then I got a message... MOE wants my syllabus for the next eight weeks! WHAT?

So, I quickly got that finished and went off to tutor. Of course, I went long... she wants me to tutor her boys this summer! 

I rushed back, picking up Mom's meds before meeting a sister at 3:45.

We had time to pray and share and then the phone rang. Mom was home!

I got Alan and Isaiah dinner ready and got Mom to bed. I was a bit late for tap, but I stayed until 9pm. I had prayer time at 10pm.

I barely had time to get more things completed... 

My head is spinning... 

I did pack two pieces of luggage already... One more... Isaiah and I will just have our carry on.

Daily Lovely Insight:

I love the Lord's Prayer!

Give us this day our daily bread... It really helps me to trust God for all my daily "bread"... 

Thank you Jesus!

Seek Him First!

A Great Sunday... It Rained... but NO RUN!

I was up early... super early... because it was quite hot by 5am.

I worked on a few things at home before going to World Gym to get my steps in. I was home early, hoping to see Alan before he took off for the graduation ceremony. He left at 9:15! I started a load of wash and Isaiah left at 10:30. I was on the phone with Corenne! Finally! She was busy packing and cleaning... And she was leaving tomorrow to fly back to Brazil. Wow... and it was 10:30pm and she was just eating dinner! I didn't want to keep her on the phone too long... She needed to sleep. We finally got off and I went back to caring for my Mom and doing housework! 

I finally mopped the floor! I only got part way done and finished everything after we got home from church. It took quite a while as I had to wash the mop several times. That was how filthy it was!

I then washed a couple of more fans... filthy... 

The day again flew by.

Alan had a missions meeting tonight as he will join the HOP Team to go to the Philippines from August 7th to the 20th!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

It's Getting Hotter... Even When It Rains!

I tried to go to bed early... or earlier... So, last night I was in bed by 10:30 and up by 5:30! After my time with God, I reorganized the back as the shelf was getting too bent and things were falling off of it. And then, it was time to go out to World Gym Express and do a run... in the heat!

I had to hurry... so, no machine, just sauna and shower and home to care for Mom. 

Alan and Isaiah were home from tennis already and watching a Padres game. I guess it got too hot for them.

While Mom was eating, I took down the clothes that were hanging, took out the trash, wash two fans and a pan I found in the recycling trash. I will give that away! It's a nice frying sauce pan with a lip for pouring. I didn't get to mop the floor. I keep wanting to get to that... It's just too hot!

Mom enjoyed her meals... She has a good appetite. That's why the doctors all say that she will live until 105. 

This evening, after Mom went to bed, the three of us went out to dinner to celebrate Isaiah's acceptance of his full time job at NanShan Insurance in the Finance Sector. It's a 3.5 year commitment! We ate at a Buffet Hot Pot. (This is after our table has been cleaned!) It was so delicious!

He will also need to get a physical and a credit report. We made an appointment for him to get his physical on Tuesday, June 6th and he can also get his credit report!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!