This time last year...

This time last year I was at Wal mart buying a pillow, sheets, a blanket and chapstick in Zombie mode. I had just met 4 beautiful and amazing girls from Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Serbia. I had just woken up from the 1 hour van ride from MSP to Mankato and was on my way to be checked into Crawford B316.

I can remember it just like yesterday. Perviosuly I had just flew 33 hours from Malaysia to MSP. I arrived at 1.30pm and was sitting for about an hour before Lisa came and picked me up. We took the Lightrail to the Mall of America and had my first treat! Nestle Toolhouse chocolate chip milkshake!!! AWESOME!!!! We came back after and hour and greeted Zully. We talked for and hour before meeting Isabel. Finally Ana and Mirjana came and we headed off to the van where we were on our way to Mankato.

Thinking about all this just shows me how much a year can change a man. I have grown so much within that 9 months as IT was truely an amazing journey for me. It allowed me to meet amazing people, forged lifelong friendships and to see the world in a whole new different light.

I would not say that it was a loss but the opportunity cost of not graduating with my coursemates still stings till this day. Even seeing them iron their robe the other day was so much sorrow that I had to just go to the room to shut of that image. I really hope what they say about time heals is true cause I really want to whole when my turn comes to convo.

But all said and done, I would not have done anything differently. I would not wish for anything different cause if I had left this year instead of last year, I would have not met this AMAZING BUNCH where I consider my INTERNATIONAL FAMILY!!!

So here is to our one year anniversary of meeting each other! To lifelong friendships and an amazing experience.

HERE IS TO US!!!=)

My first goodbye...

And so the Good bye starts...

HAd my first goodbye with my Sunday School kids...

Truely love them to bits and i think they do too=)

Took my last photo with them...



Faith, Aaron, Anthony, Madeline and Jaime...

I will miss them='(

My current state

It's a wonder how songs can express your current feelings when words seem to fail. On my way to Chicago today I went through my Ipod and below are a few songs that I find somehow relates how i feel currently.

My current state of mind: I need to find my way...



To my family and friends at home in Malaysia: I always take comfort in this song while thinking of you guys=)



And to my SPECIAL someone: You know who you are=)



Don't judge me too harshly and please don't speculate...I'm quite emo this few days...too many thoughts, emnotions and feelings swirling within my head...

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=)

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYBODY!!!

THE PICTURE SAYS IT ALL!!!

TILL THEN...CIAO=)

Winter break Part 1-Mankato to Miami

Winter break is here and started travelling. When to Universal Studios and Island of Advanture! Sat 3 roller coaster in a day and played LOADS of rides!

Went to Disney's Magic Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios! The whole time I felt like a kid again! Watching Disney's shows and queueing up to take a picture with the Disney's characters like Mickey, Donald, Goofy and Pluto! I am so happy because I managed to get all the charcters and their pics. YEAH!!!

Now I am at Miami! YR and I took a 6 hours bus ride from Kissimmee to Miami and then YR and I took 2 busses to reach the hotel. Everything is so far so good and I hope we will be able to do catch up with our sleep this few days. I'm realy on vacation now as I have no idea what I want to do this whole time in Miami as I just wanna soak up the sun as when I go back to Mankato it will be white...A WHOLE LOT OF WHITE!!!

So far so good! Might not be updating this blog so often this month as I am on holiday so I will play more than uodate. Ask me again in the next few days and I may give you a different answer or an even better answer as to how my vacation is going. Only time will tell=)

Till then...ciao!!!

Picture post

I'm too lazy to write this week but I had fun playing with this picture-thingy so I decided to do something different this week. Hope you have fun=)

My lecturers and Claudia-World Learning staff on site visit=)

A snowy Thursday that was indicated the beginning of winter

World Language Organisation Semester end party at Cita's place

Finals is over bowling + snow camwhoring=)

Till then..c ya soon..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=)

你们最近还好吗

虽然要来美国是我自己的选择，但是我偶尔还是会想你们的！想着假如我没离开马来西亚的话我的生活是如何的？我的命运会不会不一样？

离开一年到国外读书，虽然是免费的，但是依然是一年！那时回学院时却是人面不知何处去，桃花依然笑春风，那孤单的感觉是难以想象的。

眼巴巴的看着大家毕业而我依然还在读着书！！！不能跟我一起经过悲伤与快乐，困难与爽快的同学们毕业是多么的心痛啊！！！

虽然我在这儿也交到了新朋友，但是还是觉得你们还是最好的！在这儿人家的态度好幼稚哦！是，他们是十九，二十岁但是他们根本没有群体生活想法，每个人都是先顾好自己的利益。我实在看不下去！还是觉得马来西亚好, 至少有人情味。

天啊！！！我的选择当初是否是对的吗？

The Important Things in LIFE

I was going through ppl's blog today( a bit too free...LOL) and I came across Ps Andy's blog and I find this to be very true and thought of sharing it with you. YES YOU!!!=)

The most destructive habit……………… Worry
The greatest joy……………………………… Giving
The greatest loss……………………………… Loss of Self-Respect
The most satisfying work………………… Helping Others
The ugliest personality trait……………… Selfishness
The most endangered species …………… Dedicated Leaders
Our greatest natural resource …………… Our Children & Youth
The greatest “shot in the arm”…………… Encouragement
The greatest problem to everyone ……… Fear
The most effective sleeping pill …………… Peace of Mind
The most crippling failure disease ……… Excuses
The most powerful force in life…………… Love
The most dangerous pariah………………… A gossiper
The world’s most incredible computer… The brain
The worst thing to be without …………… Hope
The deadliest weapon ………………………… The Tongue
The two most power-filled words………… I Can
The greatest asset ……………………………… Faith
The most worthless emotion ……………… Self – pity
The most beautiful attire …………………… Smile
The most prized possession………………… Integrity
The most powerful means of communication… Prayer
The most contagious spirit ………………… Enthusiasm
The most important thing in life ………… God

Therefore I shall learn from this and move on in life. I shall now dwell in the wonderment of confusion but walk in the Light for HE is my Guide!His word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path!! Amen=)

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions...

I'm plagued to decide all sorts of choices that are given to me. Choices that will effect my adventure here in the US. Rushmore or Chicago? Artifacts or Essays? All sorts of decisiosn to decide. To choose which group of friends to go with and I have no idea who I wanna join or where I wanna go. People will get hurt if I decide to or against and I do not want to be the person that people hate. Already I have done so many things wrong and I don't know why and how it happened?

Things are not easy. Choices are offered and decisions have to be made and all have to be done fast! I hate this feeling... Why can't we do things like back home? WHat happened to being a last minuter? Sorry no such thing when ur in US...

I wish things would be easier. I wish there was a book that tells me what should I do. I wish that God would just let me know which is the best road to take and just close the others so that I do not feel regretful and look at my opportunity cost.

May the Lord help me and give me strength!!!

LORD Unto your hands I commit again!!!

Holloween and more...

Halloween started early for me. I went to a get together organized by my friend Brian on Halloween eve at his place off campus. We walked to his place at around 9.30pm. People were dressed up in different costumes. There were witches, devils, lumberjack and others. A few of the international students including myself did not dressed up but mixed and match our cloths and came up with something. We played Wii and card games. I was introduced to different card games that were played all over the world. There were games from Finland to Ethiopia and of course American card games. I learnt a whole need set of card games. Later we left the party and wanted to go back to the dorms.

When I was resting in my room, Sully called me to join her at another party that was organized by the Maverick Bullpen which is the game room area. It was open day where we get to play pool and bowling for free. People were all dressed up in different and weird costumes and it was funny in some of them. One guy was a stripper while another cross-dressed. There was even a group of friends who dressed up in the whole complete set of characters from ‘Alice in Wonderland’ including Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dumb, Cheshire cat and the Queen of Hearts. It was really cool. There was a costume completion, lucky draws and a band playing. We play pool for a while before the announcement for the costume competition was announced. Not surprising the winner for the competition was the stripper. It was so funny when after he was awarded his prize; his friends took a photo of him being hand cuffed in all kinds of positions. We left after the party and that was when I realized I lost my phone. I went back and tried looking for it but could not find it. I tried calling it but the battery died soon after as there was not much battery left. I really hope someone would find it and give it back to me. I posted notices around the campus so I can only hope that it will be returned to me if it is found as soon as possible as I really need the phone for a lot of other functions like for time and alarm clock.

Overall Halloween was fun but the bummer was my lost phone. It was great to dress up and see people going all out in their costumes. It sucked as I now have to buy a new phone and phones here are exp. I love Malaysia more now....

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=)