SPRING BREAK 1st Stop- Milwaukee and Chicago

Spring break is ON!!!!

Mantel took me to Milwaukee and met John Koko as Chin Chin Che Che was working...met her in the morning after she cameback from work....

Yesterday went around Milwaukee!!! Had A LOT OF FUN!!!! Met Mike and Beth...they r fun people=)

Went to Chicago today....Michigan Avenue is a definately nice place 2 be=) Going again when I'm free these few coming days=)

Tomorrow, Naperville and Chicago!!!!

SPRING BREAK IS ON BABE!!!!!=)

Winter Break Stop 7-Boston to New York City

Woke up super early today at 6.15am. Had 2 get everything ready by 6.55am. So very the early!!!

Our first stop was Harvard University. We were dropped off at outside of Harvard for breakfast first at Au Bon Pain Bakery. The rest went to eat while the 3 of us walked around as we already ate=) The tour strted 15 minutes later. We went straight into the Courtyard of HArvard to where the Statue of John Harvard is at. We were told some interesting story abt that 3 lies Statue of John Harvard=) LAter we took a few pcitures and left for MIT=)

We went down from 160 something Massachusetts Avenue to 1 Massachusetts Avenue where the Massachusetts Institute of Technology aka MIT is located. As it was a rather fenced up school, we only manage 2 take a few pictures at the Library. To bad Stephen already left MIT or not can ask him for a grand tour of the place..LOL

Our next stop was the Boston Boat Tour. Went to the pier and aboard a boat that took us around the scenic view of Boston. We saw a few historic monuments like the Bunker Hill Monument nand the Church steple taht had the lanterns hung to tell Paul Revere and another guy that the british are attacking. 1 by land and 2 by sea=) Not bad but it would have beeen worth more if the Chinese tourist would have shut up while the speaker was explaining stuff. Their voices were drowning out the explaination that I had to go out to the outher deck where it was freezing cold to be able 2 hear the explaination better as they were all inside to escape the cold.

Finally our next place was Quincy Market=) We had a light lunch there. Had Lobster Mac and Cheeze pie. Was hurtful at the wallet but its suppose 2b the specialty there so whatever la. YR and her mum had the Clam Chouder and that was good but I didnt buy cause was a bit pricey to me...We walked around the market and YR bought some stuff. I just saw stuff...LOL

Finally it was the start of going back. Ppl were dropped off at the first stop-Boston International Airport. 5 hours later-Flushing, Queens. 1 hour later-JFK airport and Finally 2 hours and traffic jam later- Chinatown.

We had dinner at Skyway Malaysian Restaurant and it was a great disappointment. The nasi lemak was from a chilli powder mix and the ikan bilis was cold. So not my kind of food. YR's rendang was good but i didnt like the sambal udang. watever it was, I'm definately going 2 explore other Malaysian restaurants ard NYC.

The hostel is at 106 st so we took the subway from Chinatown 2 there. Up and down the stairs we went. as there was no elevator. Had to carry all the luggages up and down the stairs and mind u- the luggages are heavy and i had 2 carry 2 or 3 up and down the stairs. By the end i was actually sweating at a 2/3'C weather. That was so something that I had never thought possible!!!

Now after everything is settled and bought water from a nearby supermart later, I'm here writing this to u. I plan 2 go 2 the Musuem of Natural History tomorrow. Night at the Musuem Baby!!! See how it goes and will report tomorrow.

Till then...CIAO from the BIG APPLE!!=)

Winter Break Stop 7-Niagra Falls to Boston

Woke up early just to sit on the bus all the way 2 Niagra falls again, this time for the day view.

As we approach the Visitor's center, it was not the same place that they brought us yesterday. It was near the American falls this time and man was the American falls HUGE!!! Saw the Horseshoe Falls from a distance and realised how wide it must be! wanted 2 walked over but it was too far and we only had a limited amount of time. So did the only logical thing- took more pictures of the American Falls rapids. It was there that we saw a few pairs of ducks swiming at the Rapids. There were at least 6 pairs swiming at that fast flowing water, packing each pair taht swims pass each other. It was incredible that they can actually swim at water flowing at such high speed!!! but it was cute as well...kinda made me wish I had someone 2 'swim' with too=) LOL

After that was a 9 hour bus ride driving from Niagra Falls, New York to Boston, Massachusetts. Had a few stops along the way but the ride was LLLLOOOOONNNGGGGG!!! became a pig along the way. Wake up, makan, toilet, sleep, wake up, makan, toilet, sleep again....LOL

Finally we reached Boston at 7pm and we went straight for dinner and guess waht we had 4 dinner!!! 2 pounds LOBSTER!!!!! we had 2 as YR and I shared with her mum to split up the cost=) It was my first time ever eating lobster!!! it was HUGE!!! I had no idea where 2 start but just dived right in. when I was trying to break it open, as usual i used too much force and the shell broek open, spilling 2 my neighbour sitting next 2 me. It was SO SO SO EMBARASSING!!! I apologise like mad!!! HE was cool with it as his whole family found it funny and we just laughed it over. He is from Bali and we're from Malaysia, so friend friend lo=) After that we managed 2 kopek everything open and when I eat the meat, IT WAS SO SO SO GOOD!!! So fresh and juicy!!! We had other food as well like vege and meat but still, the LOBSTER WAS GREAT!!!


After dinner we went 2 the hotel for the night. We have 2 wake up tomorrow at 5am so taht we can go around Boston 2molo so got to go sleep now=)

Till then...ciao=>

Winter Break Stop 6- Pennsylvania to New York State

Woke up the next day and again we're on the go. Woke up at 7am and we started our journey to Hershey, PA.

Arrived at Hershey and straight away went for the ride as we were the first to arrive! It was great fun as it showed the process of chocolate making! from melting to cooling!!! they even provide the smell for the smashing room with the smell of Coco!!! After the ride we got free chocolate...hehe so the happy!=)

Our next stop was Corning glass musuem. I didnt wanna go as to me, a glass is glass, make no difference if its from Cornings or from the street. ALos it was 12.60 so I wanna save money so dun wanna go=) Waited outside for YR and her mum for abt an hour. Thank God there was free wifi to keep me occupied or not I would have died of boredom=) After that was the long trip go driving all the way up 2 New York State where Niagra Falls is at=)

We reach Niagra Falls at around 8pm and man was thta place AWESOME!!! the few thousand tonnes of water falling of the cliff each second!!! saw the bridal vail falls, Horseshoe fall and American Fall all at once! Canada was so near and its just the opposite but I still cannot get 2 go across as i dun have the papers to do so. So sad. But there were like 3 casinos just around that area. 1 on teh american front and 2 on teh Canadian front. Can even see the revolving tower from the Canada area. Thought it looked like the Toronto tower. The night view was just simply spectacular~!!!We then left for the night. Spend the night at Buffolo as it was a better place to sgtay, so we were told.

The snow fall there was just A LOT!!! A glimpse of what Mankato is gonna be when I go back!!! Man I dun wanna live like that but what can i do. Its a place i call home 4 the next 4 and an half months. shoved snow down YR's hoodie after she did the same 2 me!! man was it freezing cold!! she had a lot of snow collected at her hoodie after teh fight, FUNNy!!LOL

Till then..caio=)

Winter Break Stop 5-Philadelphia,Pennsylvania to Washington DC

Started the next day at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Went to the independence Hall and Liberty Bell!!! Again as we had breakfast already, we manage 2 enter Independence Hall!!! Took a few pciture around the courtyard but couldnt enter the place as it would only open at 9am and we need 2 leave by 9.15am. Saw the first Public Library created by Ben Franklin though!!

Next was the walk 2 the US Mint! I WAS EXCITED!!! I'm was thinking of seeing if they have coins for exchange and there they ahd a machine that would dispence the latest quarter and it was the Southern Samoa Islands!!! Went to the cashier and managed 2 get another US Virgin Island quarter. The only regret was that I should have bought the Deleware quarter! Hopefully whith this 4 months I will somehow manage 2 get it!!! After that, we were on our way 2 Washington DC..AGAIN!!!..LOL

We went 2 just outside of the White House and took a few pictures. then we went Capitol Hill and took another few pictures before heading towards the Smithosian Musuem of Natural History. Instead of going to that which i had alrady see, i went to the National Gallery of Art and took a few pictures of the presidential portraits...felt so much more meaningful to me=)

Finally was the Jefferson Memorial which YR and I had not visited prior to this visit! when we saw it it was just AWESOME! Didnt know that Jefferson's Statue stood looking directly at the White House in a straight line to remind past and present Presidents that I'M WATCHING YOU! Govern my people wisely!!LOL.. had some drama on the way but hopefully it doesnt hurt my score of my test;P

Went to the Lincoln Memorial next and finally found the spot where Martin Luther King gave his famous I Have a Dream Spot~ It was engraved on the steps and ppl keep telling me that it was a sign on the steps but no one bothered to mention that it was an engraving to the floor! wasted my energy last time running up and down the steps looking 4 something taht is reflective..LOL..Saw the Korean Memorial which we missed last visit and man was it creepy 2 visit it at night with all the 19 statues randomly placed in those positions! LOL.

Finally the bus took us all the way 2 Maryland to stay at the Marriott hotel. We went out 4 dinner and saw a Malaysian restaurant but the price was over the roof so we went 4 Thai food instead. It was still good. Bathe and a few minutes of waiting 4 a free wifi later, hence me writing this post to u=)

Over all The Mint in Philly and the National Gallery of Art were the BEST for today! I love it ! It was like I could stay there forever making my own coins!!! LOL...Tomorrow Niagra Falls!!! The wonderful Works of Nature!! Cant WAIT!!! Wat can I say, i'm a sucker for Art and Nature=)

Till then...Ciao=)

Winter Break Stop 4-New York

Went round New York 2 days ago. The bus first took us to Chiantown for breakfast but since YR, her mum and I already ate, we decided to walk around Chiantown. Found there were alot of SEA restaurants and FINALLY found the Malaysian restaurant that everybody has been talking about. It was at Bowery Street. Took a few pictures. Will definately come back for a meal before we leave.

Our next stop was Wall street and the Federal Hall, npw known as the Federal Musuem. Stood right in front of the Trinity Church and Wall street which is known as the Heree. It was exactly like National Treasure!!! walked down to the Federal Hall and took a few picture. Found that the Trump Tower is actually only next to Federal Hall=) We also saw the New York Stock Exchange tower and what was suppose to be a bull in front of the tower had now become a Christmas tree. The bull had been moved to the another location which was in front of Battery park=) Took pictures with the front of the bull and then realised that there were a bunch of other ppl taking it from the rear. Tehy were what i would consider 'Sexually Harresing' the bull!!! LOL

Our next stop was Pier 17!!! Took the the water taxi and paid 25 for it. It took us all the way around to see Manhattan by sea. It was HUGE!!!! the wind was not exactly cooperating either! During the boat ride, the wind was strong and COLD!!! everybody was just jumping up and down 2 keep themselves warm. the water taxi took a turn and that was when we sawthe Statue of Liberty!!! It was just like how it was in photos-green with rust!!!LOL...didnt get off to the island but only saw it from afar but it was good enough=) took picture with crazy hair but its alright!!! another american experience=)

The next stop was Times Square and man was it HUGE!! News headlines rotating round and round, big neon lights just like Vegas...even the McD had a huge colourful neon M..LOL..took a few brief pictures and moved on. Will most definately come here again before I leave for Mankato=) On our way to the Empire State Building we went past Ground Zero and the construction site of freedom tower. It was said that its going to be 1776 m high to signify the year USA was first founded=)

Next on the list is the Empire State Building!!! It was TALL!!! first we went for a simulator ride that had a bird's eye view of the entire NYC. The ride was suppose 2b life like but Universal Studios had sucked the fun out of it for me and the whole thing just felt boring. I just followed along when the pictures turn and that was about it while the ppl behind was screaming their lungs out!! totally funny=) Next we took the elevator up to the 80 floor of the ESB before switching to another elevator that takes us up 2 the next 6 floors to the 86th floor of the ESB-the Observation Deck! When we went out, lo and behold it was SNOWING!!! now who would have thought that I would one day see snow at the highest peak of NYC??!! So TOTALLY AWESOME!!!took a few pictures before coming down! The place was just awesome and the view, breath taking!!!

Finally we went to Rockerfeller Center, our final stop. Fifth Avenue Baby!!! Shopping heaven!!! Saw the Rockerfeller Christmas tree which when lighted means Sale SAle SALE!!!! During Summer and Fall the Concorse is a Open Deck Cafe but during winter and Spring it is an ice skating ring! so we saw LOADS of ppl skating round and round!!=) Teh decorations were neat too!! Nutrackers and soldiers and angels everywhere!!!=)

Finally we headed off to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania!!! crossed the Ben Franklin Bridge and saw the Ben Franklin monument which was shapped like lightning to a kite=) Stayed at the Hyatt hotel which was just next to the Deleware River! so cool to know wher i'm at LOL.. After checking into our hotel, YR and I decide to take a stroll down where we were staying and found ourselves just a few steps away from the Philadelphia Seaport Musuem! Saw a ship as well as a Submarine!!! Didnt get 2 board it but still, to see a sunmarine was just awesome!!! It was so HUGE and half of it is already underwater, wonder how big it really is? Further walking brought us to Philly's Vietnam Memorial and another block away is the Korean War Memorial!!

Overall, NYC was fun! Saw load of stuff that only can be seen through TV! need 2 spend more time there and hopefully 3 days is enough but I highly doubt that! However need 2 prioritise and the Musuem of Natural History currently tops the Must SEE list!!! NIGHT AT THE MUSUEM!!!

Till then..ciao=)

Winter Break Stop 3-Washington DC

It all started from sleeping at Miami International Airport! I felt so tired and a little sickly so I slept through the night.

Woke up at 5.30am and ran to the terminal with YR. When we checked in it was just nicely. Slept the whole way through to Memphis. Came out to change flight 2 Washington. Reached Washington and took the Metro to the hostel. It was quite convienient as it was just like 4 blocks away from the metro. Staright away we walked around with Eng Hwa to start to explore the city. Had Lunch at Chinatown which was just a stones throw away and started walking. We reached the White house, Treasury, the national Christmas tree and finally the Washington Memorial before going back 2 makan at Chinatown.

The next day we went makan at Chinatown again and this time we did a workload of walking! We hit the Smithsonians instantly-Natural History, Air and Space, American Indian and then detoured to Capital Hill. We went and took some pictures there before going to the other Smithsonian-American Hsitory. Saw the original Star Spangled Banner-The one that inspired the USA national Anthem during the Baltimore War. We left it when it closed at 7.30pm towards the WW2 memorial. After that we hit the Reflection pool before going up to the Lincoln Memorial. It was SO SO SO COLD that night! After that we decided to ditch the Jefferson Memorial as it was too far. Went back to Chiantown again to makan before EH had to pack to leave 2 New York the next day.

Woke up a little early that day as was going 2 meet Jessica and Amy for the 1ST TIME!!! We met that as true 2 YR's word, Amy is fun and very animated. Jessica was at the quite side. We had fun and talked till almost 11am and had 2 leave as YR and EH had 2 go 2 NY. Amy left as she had something elso on before we went the bustop. After sending them off, Jessica taught me how 2 go shopping before leaving me. I went 2 Columbia Heights 2 shop for a while before heading 2 the Smithosians again 2 see them more clearly this time as yesterday was a rush job. Started with the Smithsonian Castle then to the Air and Space musium and then to American Indian. Stopped by The National Gallery of Art and saw BEAUtiful pictures but didnt have that much time 2 join the tour. It was very informational but the tour guide would spend almost 15-20 minutes explaining 1 picture and I was at a time cruch so I just went 4 2 pictures b4 heading towards my 4 stop which was Natural History. Saw the Hope Diamond before leaving to my last stop which was American Hsitory. LOVED the president gallery!!! Finished it and head back to the hostel 4 a free tour 2 Georgetown. Yes there is a Georgetown in DC!!!! 1st stop was the famous Cafe Milano where loads of celebrities always comes 2 dine when in DC. Next was the last house that was owned by JFK before being elected president. Also went to Georgetown University to have a look see look see. It was a great site. Very nice architecture! Rich kids school as it cost almost USD250K for a 4 years education. Finished the tour with what was called the Exorcist stairs.

The next day when I woke up, YR had brought her Mum 2 the hostel. We went to makan at Chinatown before heading out. Went to the National Archieves and saw the Declearation of Independence, Bill of Rights and the Constitution. It was like watching the National Treasure! So cool=) Next we went to The Air and Space Musium for Lunch before heading back 2 the hostel for a trip to the Kennedy Theater of Performance Art where we had a free performance from the Harry Waters Quartet. Felt very weird when something happened but hey it did not happen to me and I just observed. There was no desperately bad situation and was a handleable situation that did not urgently require my assistance so I mah just observe nia lo=) As it was New Years Eve, I wanted 2 count down at Lincoln Memorial but the weather was just too cold!!! So at 11.10pm, YR and I walked out of our hostel and there and behold I saw a church. So i decided 2 go in to see if they have Watch Night Service and they do. Surprise surprise it was a black church but we still sat through it. Honestly there was no better place to end the old year and start the New Year then being in Church=) After Church we went to the White House and that was the furthest we went as It was too DARN CoLD!! went to Chinatown instead to makan my 1st meal of the year=) Laughed at sausage fingers all the way back to the hostel. It was a GREAT NITE/MORNING=)

The next day we went to the Franklin D Roosevelt Memorial. We walked all the way passing through the Washington Memorial again and this time we walked across the Kutz Bridge. Saw the place where they planted the Cherry Bloosom trees from Japan.It would look so much nicer is it was Spring when the flowers bloom. FDR's Memorial was a good place 2 be and I understood why it was Amy and Jessica's favourite Memorial=) We then went 2 the Halocaust Musuem. Saw loads of stuff that was mind boogling and I had too take time 2 digest. All the horrible things down to the ppl we just so sad and i wish it would never reach that stage ever in Malaysia of the extremist decided go beseck or worst-gain power like Adolf Hitler did! Went back 2 the hostel and had Mac and Cheese for supper and that was when I learnt more things!!!

And that lead to today when I travelled all the way from this morning at 9.30am aboard the Megabus travelling from Washington DC to NYC! It was a 5 hour long bus but I saw loads of places-Boltimore,New Jersey and NYC! Walked from 7th Ave to Penn Station. The place is seriously dirty and the ppl are rude. Was craming in the NJ transit and had a unpleasant encounter with a grandma and her grand daughter. Yes I understand she wants 2 go toilet but do u need 2 be so rude! Cant u see the whole place is jam packed with bags and stuff? somemore insist must make way for her-pi la u!!! Then got 2 old hags there saying like travelling must pack light stuff, crazy 2 pack so big bags-Come on women, Know ur facts before u talk abt other ppl k! IF u dun know head or tail then PLEASE keep ur comments 2 urself!! When we reached the Sheraton Hotel then another drama- Gave us 3 rooms 2 go tikam and see if anyone there not, if not then can take the room! Wat the heck wei! First they say its not our name, then they loose our keys, then they give 3 different keys to go tikam to see which door opens 2 an unoccuppied room. After a whole lot waiting and a complimentary buffet woucher for 3 later, they gave us a room with 2 queen size beds. By then I was so hungry and tired that I ahd to order take out as I was so hungry from all the waiting and the tiredness. A good shower and some good food later, hence me writing this to u=)

Overall Washington DC was AWESOME!!! The history, the culture, the Musuems and the transportation was so much more convinient. In fact at some point, it even flet like little Penang minus the good food=) It is a great place 2 explore and would need a minumum of a weeks stay 2 be able to claim that I have at least seen what DC has to offer. Now that I'm in Sharaton Newark awaiting a new adventure with thw tour, lets see what better stuff lies ahead...Am so curious 2 see what the New England states have 2 offer ...

Till then..ciao=)

Winter Break Part 2- Miami Beach to Downtown Miami

This week was a long stay at miami. When I planned this it was meant to soak up the sun as I know I was getting fairer and needed to get darker but unfortunately when I reached there- It was chilly and cold so no get 2 go beach and sun bath...only can take picture. Luckily we meet some tour guy who we bargained till $95 and he took us to 3 places for 2 days...

We went to Everglades the 1st day and it was to the Gator Park. We went there by bus and it was fun. I learned the difference between Aligator and Crocodile. Then we went for a AirBoat ride. Went into the Everglades swamp and saw the gator in real life action. They have heaps of sawgrass that actually looks like lalang back home LOL... We then came back and went to a tour to downtown miami. We started with an boat ride that took us around to see the houses of the rich and famous in Miami beach. Ppl like Will Smith, Shakir O'Neal, Elizabeth Taylor, J.Lo and the rest all have houses there. A piece of land there ranges between 8-12 Million. JUST THE LAND WEI!!! It doesn't even come with the house...sigh these ppl really rich ah!!!LOL...We then went to a tour around the town with the bus. Saw some of the places of interest in Coral Gables, Little Havana and Coconut Groove=)

The next day we went to Key West!!! It is the southest most tip of the USA!!! We also went to Hemingway's House!!! Surprise rite that Ernest Hemingway actually stayed in Key West before=) It was a cool tour....The whole Island was so big and we only had 4 hours so couldn't finish the whole island but it was good non the lest=)

The next day we transfered to a hotel at Downtown Miami and traveled around there. The place was quite dingy but the location was GREAT!!! right in the middle of the city and transportation to everywhere is abound!!! The first day itself we went to Bayfront Park. It felt like the Esplanade! If only Penang can better spruce it up and make it look like that it will be great!!! Went past the American Airlines Arena where the Miami Heat was playing that night! Had Osyters the night we arrived as it was happy hour so everything was half-priced=) Walked around the next day around town and found the public library, Art Musuem and Art Gallery=) Spend Christmas eve with YR and EH that I would never had dreamed off...LOL..Dun ask me more=)

We planned to go to The Hard Rock Casino on Christmas Day but we were lost and so decide 2 hangout at downtown miami again. We went aorund looking at the night life there and realise all the fun was at Miami Beach which was a bus away but not sure how 2 come back so we just spend christmas Jumping up and down in front of the CHristmas Tree in fornt of Bayfront Park!! It was hillarious but I had fun=)The next day EH managed 2 get a friend of his to fetch is to The casino and it was great! It was at Fort Laudradale and had we gone by bus it would have taken us 2 hours but by car was only 20 minutes=) We spend half a day there walking around and seeing ppl gambling. There were a lot of old ppl there and they were just pressing the slot machines..so lifeless and lost... At 3 we went to Aventura Mall which is the biggest mall in Florida. It was boxing day and they had Boxing Day sale!!! We bought stuff...lots of stuff but it was money well spent=)

Finally we checked out 2day and went to downtown to have a look see...AGAIN!!! EH wanted 2 have Chillies so we went=) later we took a bus to Miami Beach and the weather was so NICE!!! THe time we were at downtown the weather was warming up so we missed the sun tan part but nontheless the trip 2 the beach today was worth while=) Everybody was out at the beach and having fun=) Spend the whole afternoon there till evening and we managed 2 get EH;s friend again 2 fetch us 2 the Airport=) We have so many bags that I wonder how on earth ar we gonna go back in May...this is so gonna be a challenge...

As of now im writing from the airport so will be sleeping soon! Tomorrow..WASHINGTON DC!!!!

Till then ...ciao=)

Thanksgiving+Black Friday....INSANE!!!

This weekend happened this way...

26/11/2009

Woke up late at 9am as The Winch's will be coming at 9.30am. Was done at 9.35 and hurried down just 2 find they were not there yet. Manage 2 relax till 9.45 when they came. Glenn drove all the way from Mankato 2 Rochester. Pass through Waseca and Owatonna and finally reach Rochester. U know ur at Rochester when u see tyhat HUGE corn Cub water tower- The biggest in the world=) Reached Ann's brother-Jerry's house and was greeted with a big snowman blowup with music..so CUTE!!! Meet Ann's whole family-Grandpa, Jerry and Terry, Nancy, Sharron + Mike and a whole lot more that I cannot remember=) We had makan at the Garage which was heated. There was TURKEY, mashed potatoes, Stufings, Corn, Cassarole and DESSERT!!! The mashed Potatoes WAS THE BEST!!!! The gravy and all was just so good!!! after that watche the Green Bay Packers game against Detroit. There was then a Baby Shower which was for Ann's niece who is expecting in March. They were cooing and aweing everytime a present is unwrapped. So funny=) The baby shower was in the Kitchen where the women folk were and the man were all in the living room-so gender bias but its the truth=) We finish and left at 5pm and Ann and Glenn drove me around the heart of Rochester which is the Mayo Clinic. The Clinic building was so nice but too bad i cannot stay out side too long to take pictures as it was TOO COLD!!! the wind kept blowing and I was not dressed for outside. So I just took a few photos and hopped into the car again. We then drove all the way back to Mankato and They decided 2 feed me first b4 dropping me off to my dorm. So nice kan! They cooked pasta with cheese! Had my full b4 i balik=) When I balik it was already around 10.30pm and I was expecting my floor to be empty. Surprise Surprise when I found Mike and Brandon in their room with their friends. They were there 4 Black Friday Shopping! So I asked if I can tumpang when they are leaving. They said ok and will let me know when they were leaving. I then went into my room and started to watch TV.

27/11/2009

My door knocked at 2.30am and Mike told me that they were leaving to Walmart. I wanted 2 go to Target so I said I'll just follow and then walked 2 Target at 4am as it will only open at 5am. Mike saw what I was wearing and said I need more layers. I wore 4 and then they said ok. I was HOT!!! but when we went out it was COLD!!! went to WalMart and ppl were there already, lining up 2 buy the stuff they want! It Was CRAZY!!! We walked around to see and They bought stuff but I didnt as I need 2 say money 4 only 1 thing- IPOD TOUCH 32G! At 3.30am, Eddie(Mike's friend) decided 2 go see his friends at Target. They had been waiting there since 2.30am. When we met them, the line was from the entrance till the bus stop. So we decided to talk and mingle with them before I squeeded into the line! YES I JUMPED THE LINE!!!I'm evil but i dun wanna join the line, it wa scrazy long k!!! We waited in the bitter cold! 4 layers and It was STILL NOT ENOUGH!!! As it was getting closer to 5am, we and the people in front of us were ploting and forming strategies to how to get the stuff we all want and can help each other get them. It was the first time I encountered that. When the door opened, EVERYBODY RUSH LIKE MAD wei!!! people were running into the mall and the workers just stood by the isle laughing! Someone fell but there was some1 2 help her up so I just went along. I got my Ipod and was super happy,especially when I paid 4 it!!!!=) After that the line was just growing it a looooooooooooong line. CRAZY WEI!!! Even Pizza Hut counter became a check out counter. So funny. Mike and the rest came to meet us and we went 2 scheels to buys some more stuff for Eddie. We wanted 2 go 2 Manards but the carpark indicated to us that It was CRAZY to join so we left. We went to Best Buy and the line was also long so we judt left and decided 2 go makan breakfast at McD. It was 7.30am when we reached the dorm. I thought I was going 2 tidur first when at 7.50am, Ann called and asked if i wanna join them 4 shopping, as i still needed 2 buy a skin and a screen protecter 4 my Ipod, I joined them and was back at Target at 8.15am. We walked around and realise that it was quite expensive so I decided not 2 buy till I finish checking everything out. We went to Shopko and waited 4 abt half an hour because of the line and then we waited at Jo-Ann fabrics for 2 hours because the line was Crazy long. Old aunties were buying cloths 2 sew and knit and their cloths were 20/30 pieces and all only want 1 yard. So long k. Finally we went back 2 Walmart and It was the cheapest 2 buy stuff. I bought my skin and protecter and was done. Ann said that Glenn wanted 2 cook friend rice and so i said i'll help them cook Friend rice ala Malaysian style. We bought the stuff needed like garlic, onions and halapenio 2 replace the dried chille. We baought prawns too=) By the time we balik to the Winch's house, I was too tired and jsut slept on their couch after staying awake 4 36 hours! I just tumbang and slept till 5am-a total of 4 hours sleep=)

When I woke up it was 5pm and Ann had set up the Christmas Tree! I went to teh Kitchen to see Glenn preparing for the fried rice! He cooked the rice ready said that only 2 of us will be eating the fried rice as the rest will be eating beef stew. So I prepared the garlic and the chille. Glenn started cooking so I just helped him and in the end He allowed me to cook and I fried the rice as good as I can remember how my mum cooked it. In the end, it tasted good! We had a round table makan and it was the first time I felt like I was with family!!! So warm the feeling. We the cleaned up and we decorated the tree. We watched a movie after that-The Polar Express until 10pm. Ann then dropped me back to my dorm.

28/11/2009

The Saturday was boring. Woke up at 2pm as I was too tired. Spend the whole day doing my work. Had cheese on toast 4 lunch. Was invited 2 makan dinner with Natsua at her dorm and after makan, when I reached my dorm the hall was again empty, I suppose Mike left 2 go home.

29/11/2009

Went to church and had fun with the kids. First time I had advent and it was with them and we did a mural of Jesus's birth. After church, Ann and the kids brought me along 2 Wendy's to have lunch. After that, I had been stuck in the dorm doing work till dinner at the cafeteria. Back to work until then till now.

Over all I think I had a good Thanksgiving=) Black Friday was Insane but I'm glad I was there to experience it=)

Till then...ciao=)

Birthday Getaway

It was fall break and my birthday so Kaori, Brian, Oona, Rabya and me went 2 Minnapolis, it was so long d since I havent gottten out of Mankato that I was so jakun when I left. I felt stupid at times but hey when u dun have a car here, Everything is far. Here public transport is crap so I appreciate Malaysia more now even though our public transport is crap too.

We went to Edina, Brian's dad's house. It was a sub urb setting at the place was GOOD!!! It was a rich man's area wei. according 2 Brian, CEOs of BestBuy, Walmart, Target and others all own houses here. There was a house wif 6 LUXURY cars like cardillac, ferrari and all. I only manage 2 see the cadillac when the garage open but still!!! Americans with their material possessions~~sigh...

We went to Mall of America and walked the whole day 4 min 4 hours and that also we didnt finish the mall...Too big d la the mall!!!....

Went back to Edina n on the way we brought Alchohol. We had a drinking spree at the basement and needless to say, I join in the fun la. I drank and drank and drank and yes, I was drunk...for a while. I was tipsy and spoke crap. Almost smoked weed when it was offered but had to restarin myself as i'm inexeperienced and the experience ppl also didnt want to. So since the experienced ppl didn't do it, I dun think i should. It was a smart call cause the pplk who did smoke after tat was GONE!!! They had no idea what happened and we woke up at 1pm. It was great though. During that time they celebrated my birthday and I had a birthday Pizza! I love practicality!!=)

On our way home we talkeda bout what happened last night and realised all the crap we were talking and I was embarassed at the info i let loose 2 them. It was nothing serious but still i would Never had those conversations if i was sober.LOL. It was a great trip and it was all Thanks to Kaori, Mufasa/Brian(lol), Oona and Rabya!!! Love u guys=)

I came back on saturday doing laundry and watch loads and loads of drama!!! desperate housewives, grey's anatomy all the shebang!!LOL...ah its stuff like this that I love america=)

On Sunday after church, The Winchs (my friendship family) took me out for a birthday makan! It was so sweet of them. They took me to Buffolo wings which was a great place to hang out! They even gave me presents!!! I got a sweater and a blanket!!! They tied it themselves. pics are on FB!!! It was lovely!! So happy and Greatful to tyhe lord for always providing 4 me evn though i'm so far away from home. He still looks after His child and I'm eternally grateful!!!!

So my weekend was a great one and I hope next week will be better. till then...ciao=)

I WON!!! I WON!!!!

Today was such an AWESOME day taht I have to blog about it!!!! I went to St Peter Regional Treatment Centre for community service and ended up with so much more. There was a Diversity Event held by the St Peter Regional Treatment Centre and Sully, Isabel and I went for it. We had to bring things from our home country to promote our country to the inmates. We were there since 10am and Karla and Bert, the representatives from the Centre brought us to St Peter. I was excited as it was my first trip out of Mankato. We reached the Centre and set up our tables and started sharing with everybody that came by. It was fun. We talked for hours. Although the inmates were all classified as mentally ill and dangerous, the people that came were quite fun to be with. They were very engaging and asked a lot of interesting questions. Now I know how the Tourism board people feel when they go around the world promoting Malaysia in exhibitions. After the event, Bert took us around St Peter and when she heard that we have not seen an apple tree before, she drove us to a staff member’s house name Catherine who had an apple tree in her yard. We had fun and I got to pick my first apple from an apple tree=) After that Bert drove us back to Mankato. It was a short but fun trip and I was so thankful that Bert brought us around without us asking. That was so hospitable of them.

later after dinner, there was Fire Dance in the field in front of the Performance Art Theatre. It started at 8pm. Went there with Nanayah, Nargiza, Lennard and Sully. We saw the performance and it was GOOD! The girls were hot but the guys were not...LOL...love the performance though. Had so much fun with the stuff that they laid out for us to play with and we even got to play the drums for the event=) came back to the dorm at 9.30 and met Mike and the gang in the lounge and they told me that the Study Buck draw was at 10pm later. Went to my room and took my bucks and went down to the lobby to see what was there. Prize 1 was a free T-shirt and some candies. Prize 2 (which was what Mike and the rest was aiming for) was a box of PopCorn and some chick flick and Prize 3 was DVD of season 4 of Entourage. I wanted a free T shirt and so I put my bucks into the 1st jar. When the draw started, low and behold, I WON!!!! so now I have a free T-shirt and a lot of candy. Gave Mike and the rest some but i took the sniker bars and 100 grand chocolates=)So happy!!!

So that in short concludes my day today. So happy! It was a GOOD DAY!!!=)

Till then...CIAO=)

Pow Wow and more!

This weekend was fun filled! The weekend is finally picking up!!! Yeah man!

Weekdays are always boring. Always eat, sleep, study. Now have to do annotated Bib somemore. So kelian wei. So much work to do. That y weekends are always welcome.

It started on Friday that I did all my studies and went shopping during the night. Went to Old Navy but nothing much are cheap. So decided to ask Sully to ask Jimmy 2 drive us downtown on saturday.

Was suppose to meet at the Cafeteria at 11.30am. Dah sampai 12 only they rayau masuk. So by the time they we ready, it was 1.30pm. Walk 2 the carpark was 1.45pm and guess what, Jimmy can't drive a stick!!! To cut the long story short, we somehow manages 2 get there(wanna know how? PM me) and we went shopping at the thrift stores. Things were cheaper there. went back at 5.15pm. Had to go for fesyen show at 5.30 so ran back to dorm, bath, change and ran out to find Kaori in her Yukata. so PRETTY. Took a picture and went to the venue together. Had fun at the fesyen show it was 2 CH so i think it was worth it. Later at 9pm, we went downtown to party and that when the real shit happens. Went to The Haze at 10 and it was deserted, stayed on till 11.30pm and left for the Shisa Bar. Smoked Shisa for my 1st time but tak jadi. Tried 10 over times but STILL tak jadi. Ended up swallowing everything. I take it as God's sign of saying no smoking for u! LOL. Went back 2 The Haze at 1am and this time it was happening! Went dancing and 2 guys came hitting on Kaori. She was not putting up a struggle so i guess it was fine. When the guys tried pulling her off the group then only she wiggled her way out and in the end we left cause we were hungry and the place was HOT!!! Saw all sorts of crazy stuff in there!!! Had some fries and then balik at 2 something!!! This was the only day since I was here that I did not do any work or reading and I had FUN!!!

Sunday came, went to church then hurried back for Pow Wow. Mana tau the bus did not come. How 2 go? Luckily Chikara had a car, convinced him 2 go so i paid him 4 gas. It was cool!!! The dancers and the colours were magnificant!. First Native indian culture experience=) Pics are at FB so go check it out there!=)

So that was my weekend. Things are starting 2 pick up so hopefully it will be better next week.

Till then...Ciao=)

Continue from Changi

After I left for Japan, it was a 7 hour flight from Singapore. MAN IT WAS LONG!!!!

Reached Japan and transited for 2 hours. then flew to Minneapolis for 12 hours. By the time i reach MN at 1.30pm(US TIME), I was complete drained out. Sat and waited for 2 hours b4 I met the woman who came 2pick me up. Her name was Lisa Stofel and since we had 2 more hours b4 the next girl comes, She took me 2 MALL OF AMERICA!!!!. It was SO BIG!!!! We took the LRT there and Minneapolis only has 1 line. LOL.

Went back after 1 and a half hour and when we reached the airport, I met Sully(pronounced Soo Li) -from Costa Rica. We chatted and found out she was also majoring in TESL. LOL. Same advisor some more. Later we met Isabel from Nicaragua. She also majoring in TESL and thus the 3 of us from Ugrad are doing TESL!!!LOL The last 2 girls finally arrived and they were from a program call Forecast but alsi sponsored by World Learning.

On the way back driving from Minneapolis 2 Mankato was abt 1 and a half hour drive and being still on Malaysian time, I had major jetlag and slept all the way. Saw some beautiful scenaries but too tired to take any pictures. Sorry guys.

Reached Walmart to buy some sheets and pillows in total zombie mode. Reached and registerd at Crawford Hall and went straight 2 bed.

18/8/2009

Woke up at 6.30am 2 bathe and was out the door by 7 2 walk around campus b4 meeting dr Ishrat at 8am at the International student centre. Talked 2 her, registerd and went around looking at different activities that they offer in campus. Loved the stuff that they have. Thinking of stuff 2 join but we'll c.

The Orientation was FUN. I cant believe that its o different here than in Msia. Here the PMs actually help u and speak nicely unlike the ones back home. They even drive u around like now I just came back from River Hills Mall and drop u off right to ur doorstep.

looking forward 2 tell u more stuff but got 2 go. need 2 sleep now.

Ciao

I'm still here!!! Alive and Kicking..,

I know I know its been a while since i last updated my blog but then again. A lot have been happening to me for the past week so here goes.

After finnaly completing my medical stuff i went down 2 KL on tuesday. Reached PJ and rested. Nothing exciting happened la...

Then came Wednesday when YR and I went to hand up our Medical+Visa stuff to Miss Kalis and as she sat there going through our details. She cleared YR and mine and just as she looked through my passport, she said i do not have enough 6 months left after i come in May. So i hv 2 renew my passport even B4 it expired. SUCKY!!! 300 just flew off the window. sigh. but it was fast. I did it at 11.30am and was told that i can pick it up by 1.30pm. Thats like 2 hours and its done wei=D Malaysia has really improved=D

Picked up the passport and had 2 redo the visa application again so hv 2 go all thw way 2 the office and do and my my does technology hate me! I filled in the form 3 times and the next screen that came put was 'SERVICE UNAVAILABLE'. Frastrated, i ask YR 2 do it and she pass wif only 1 TRY!!!! stupid technology.

The next day saw everybody in HM A5-1 coming back. Jinni reached 1st the came Rachel and then we told that Hugh wanted us the babysit his GF at Midvalley till he arrives at 10pm. We did just that and came home 2 find that there were 12 ppl going 2 crash in our place that night. That night A5-1 really felt like a shelter home for the homeless..LOL

Went for the Teaching Practise workshop on Friday=D Glad for Jinni and Rachel that they got YR and my place at CHS. All things worked out la in the end. Took an incomplete class photo but what the hack, all the ppl that mattered to me were there(except Jinni and Rachel who was in school...sigh). Spent the night at Sze and the gang's new place. Went shopping b4 that and man did i realise i was really and old man and a potential father figure....is that a good thing or a bad thing? u decide=D

Saturday was cool. Had fun at the bazaar at KLPac. I so should have bought the feather hairband wif Grace!!! regret regret...LOL

Went to Sze's church on sunday and finally met the Yap's as a family. Uncle David was fun and Aunty Jenny was cool. We went 2 Ijok for dinner and everybody was staring at us like we were aliens or exhabits just because we were the most multi-racial table around. When la will the Rakyat stop doing that and accept that this is Malaysia and move on...All that aside, the food was GGGOOOOODDD!!! hehe

Went 2 Sri Aman on monday and man were the girls quick at spotting trainees. As soon as we walk in only they were like:' Look new Trainee teachers!!" WOW those hounds can really smell fresh blood man!!! LOL...Met other trainees in Sri Aman and found that they have a room specially for trainess only. Its like staying in your face: "Ur not good enough for the staff room!!"...scary...well i have another year till that becomes my problem. hehe.Good luck girls and take care. GOD SPEED!!!=D

Staying over at The girls new place was FUN!!! they have hot showers and TV and sofa couch which i dun hv back in PJ. I was so comfortable there that i started claiming all those as mine. HEHE..sorry la Sze=D

I reach Pg at 6 something. was so tired but had a family makan togeher b4 Daddy flew off 2 Melaka=D

So thats my adventure for the week. Too long 2 go into every detail but hey thats another story rite?

Till then. Ciao=D

Minnesota State University, Mankato a.k.a MMSU

YEAP ITS OFFICIAL!!!

I'm going there for 1 year(actually 10 months nia) and will be flying off on the 17-8-2009.

Went down to KL on thursday and knowing me, there alwasys drama involve.(will only disclose in person) because of the briefing with Ms Kalis on friday. Spent the night at m old PJ house.

Picked up YR at 8am and only managed to reach MACEE at 9am. Man the traffic in KL is NUTS tell u! When Ms Kalis brought out both our welcome packs, there it was, stated in capitol letters:

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY, MANKATO

Well now i have to do my medical check up and get jabs for immunizations that i dun have under Minnesota State law. Man it sucks!!!

Met up with Khai Shing, Khai Sheng, Rachel and Yu Han. They shared their experience and told us loads of stuff which i will not bore u with. It was good to finally meet them.

Did UM stuff d. Looks like I'll really not be doing teaching practise with the rest. It just like dawn on me when i sent in those applications for Penarikkan Diri that i will be postponing my life in UM for a year and come back to recontinue it after US. WALAUEH!!!! From UM to MMSU, guess i can never get away from the M&U when it comes to uni education...LOL(lame i know).

Nonetheless, i'm grateful for all the thing the Good Lord My God has done for me. Psalm 121 is the best now for my kind of situation now as i can do nothing but look to HIM when i need help...

Well, thats it for now. Tired from all the travelling back for KL. Ciao

Things are slowly coming to place...

I've made ammends and now i will leave it to play out as life would want. not bothering anymore:P

Super happy d! All work is done! no more late nites cause all written assignments are down the drain! they have all been signed, sealed and delivered so whatever happens now, happens la. I still have 2 more presentations to do and thats about it. Listening test as well as improptu speech will b on monday and then speaking is on next monday and then...IT"LL BE OVER!!!! can't wait 4 it 2 be over...I wanna go home and rest during study break. I NEED 2go home and rest during study break.

This month has been an emotional roller coaster. Friendships were tested, assignment presure and the late night, last minute work is just too much to handle. I just hope all this will just go away n nvr return. I dun wanna do this anymore:P

Ok la. Got 2 go live life and pray that this month's 'adventures' would soon come 2 an end. Ciao:P

109/120

TOEFL score is out today and I got 109/120!!!!! lost by 11 marks but what the heck, it's still good! was super happy when Yeong Ru called to tell my marks and i just bertambah semangat untuk bekerja. I think i got a lot o numbers today but who cares, if i get US, hang the jobs wei! muahahahahaa!!!!

Am still over the moon rite now and i wanna celebrate but got no money but its ok, cause I got 109/120! hehe

Going to spent my valentines with the woman who loves to cook and feed me everytime she gets the chance- MY GRANDMA!



That's my Grandma!:P

She's coming to KL today and cause I got work till friday, I'll be meeting her on saturday/Valentine's day, so cool rite! I really miss her cooking cause KL food sucks!!!!!

Thats it for now folks, Till we meet again with better news!Ciao....

Thank GOD!!!

I thank God for His providence and grace. I'm now one step away from going to US and it will not happen if not for Him! All glory and Praise goes back to Him. I can only do so much through Him that empowers me!

I'm super excited compared to few days ago when I was depressed that the programme rep did not call me. Yesterday they did and today I recieve a mail that says that I'm nominated and what stands in my way is a TOEFL test. I plan to take it ASAP and see what will happen! I know that He has brought me so far and now I plan to just take it 1 step at a time and see how it all plays out. The good Lord is always good and I know He will guide me through for He only gives the best for His children!

So...anyone have any idea on how a TOEFL test is suppose to be? Format? Past Years? Do tell if you have even an inkling of what it is abt. Nothing is insignificant. Thank you:p

Till then...got to go to bed now. BYE.

FA LA LA....

Hi I'm back! Australia was SUPER UBER FUN!!!! WE did whatever nonsence that people can think of in 1 week and the best thing is... WE SURVIVED!!! Come talk to me if u wanna know all our crazy stuff and details...haha

Christmas is near and I'm broke. So have to work lo. After Australia wanna go KK somemore. Then somemore wanna plan to go Singapore somemore. Need to earn more money! So broke wei!

Worked for my uncle for 6 days as promoter in the newly opened Pacific Supermarket. Saw all sorts of wird ppl. some are so petty till want free give upon free give. Fight somemore to buy yogurt! HELLO! you still have to pay for it, its not free! weird ppl...sigh...

Ok, going for lunch now. update next time.

BYE

Day 13- Graduation

Today was a wonderful day. Graduation was good. enjoyed every bit of it. Wished it nevered ended.

Had class with Rosemary and it was great. Spent the last session talking about the class control, parent's expectations and activities to make classes interesting. Then Matt came and we had the graduation ceremony.Everybody was hugging everybody. Gonna miss Rosemary. I hope Um will get her to come and teach there.

After graduation we went to restaurant to makan GOOD, GOOD FOOD! it was estimated AUD$40 per person so the 4 of us decided to share and man we had a LOT of food. We had muscles, scallops and squid for starters. Then we had steak, lamb shank and speggetti for main dishes and ice cream and cookies for dessert. It was GOOD i tell you.

After all that, we finally d=finish everything so we decided to go coteslow beach. but because we went down the wrong stop, we ended up at lighteon beach. It was great fun. Took lots of pics and tried digging siput. Thet have a lot of siput but all so small.

Gave the souviners to Fran. She was happy. I hope i left a good impression which i doubt it cause i'm so loud. haha

PCOP: Banks in Australia is very controlled. It takes half an hour to open an account compared to just 3 mins in Malaysia. Gotta love Malaysia sometimes.

Ok ppl. Going to Margaret river tomorrow. after that is road trip all the way up North. Hopefully will reach Ningaloo Reef. If not will see. Anyway the point i trying to make is that because i'll be on a road trip, hence i may not be updating the blog everyday. So sorry. Any pictures that u wanna see can be viewed in facebook.

Ok than, Hope everything goes well throughout the trip. Do pray for safe journey mercies for us driving around everyday. We're new in Australia so trying to get to anf fro back in one piece. yeah? ok. Till then, Ciao.