Woke up to snow on the ground and 1 digit Fahrenheit. Looked thick but it was only like 2-3" and the area is not flat.
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| Backyard |
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| Frozen water in the jar |
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| Front |
Wednesday, January 11, 2017
Snow 2017
Friday, 6 January 2017
Woke up to snow on the ground and 1 digit Fahrenheit. Looked thick but it was only like 2-3" and the area is not flat.
Woke up to snow on the ground and 1 digit Fahrenheit. Looked thick but it was only like 2-3" and the area is not flat.
Wednesday, January 04, 2017
Christmas Dinner 2016
Sunday, 25 December 2016
Thanks to Roger who did the Christmas dinner. Even though there were only 4 of us, I enjoyed the companionship.
Thanks to Roger who did the Christmas dinner. Even though there were only 4 of us, I enjoyed the companionship.
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| Baked peach glazed ham |
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| Dressing |
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| Green Beans Casserole |
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| Sweet Potato Salad |
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| Brioche Buns |
Monday, August 08, 2016
Birthday Treats 2016
Monday, 8 August 2016
I told Mike not to give me any card nor flowers, for my birthday. I also said I don't want any other material things. I actually requested that on his way home to get me a yogurt ice cream from Braum's. He returned home with a pizza for dinner and a ice cream cake. That was great! I don't care for the pizza but I love the ice cream cake. It was delicious.
I told Mike not to give me any card nor flowers, for my birthday. I also said I don't want any other material things. I actually requested that on his way home to get me a yogurt ice cream from Braum's. He returned home with a pizza for dinner and a ice cream cake. That was great! I don't care for the pizza but I love the ice cream cake. It was delicious.
Friday, August 05, 2016
Mum's Knitting
Friday, 5 August 2016
Most of my clothings, when I was growing up, was sewn by Mum. I remembered she told me she learnt to sew by herself. If she is alive now, I would tell her how much I appreciate her dedication in bringing us up. There were 5 children and she was the best mother. We hardly get sick. We were cleaned and fed.
These are the 2 knitted items that I have kept that she had made. A blue sweater for me (when I was already a teenager). A red/green strip v-check vest for my younger brother when he was in his childhood. The bottom pink strip was a replacement or an added strip. My younger brother passed away 8 years before our Mom passed.
I didn't follow her foot steps in sewing. Her granddaughter does. Mum would be so proud of this granddaughter, who happens to be her first grandchild and a special one too.
Most of my clothings, when I was growing up, was sewn by Mum. I remembered she told me she learnt to sew by herself. If she is alive now, I would tell her how much I appreciate her dedication in bringing us up. There were 5 children and she was the best mother. We hardly get sick. We were cleaned and fed.
These are the 2 knitted items that I have kept that she had made. A blue sweater for me (when I was already a teenager). A red/green strip v-check vest for my younger brother when he was in his childhood. The bottom pink strip was a replacement or an added strip. My younger brother passed away 8 years before our Mom passed.
I didn't follow her foot steps in sewing. Her granddaughter does. Mum would be so proud of this granddaughter, who happens to be her first grandchild and a special one too.
Mugs
Friday, 5 August 2016
I get all sorts of mugs during my life, but I still kept these two. 20 year or more ago, a work colleage (Sebah P) gave me the mug with my name on it. I love it. And 9 years ago, Mike gave me the one with a teddy bear attached. I have not used it at all.
I get all sorts of mugs during my life, but I still kept these two. 20 year or more ago, a work colleage (Sebah P) gave me the mug with my name on it. I love it. And 9 years ago, Mike gave me the one with a teddy bear attached. I have not used it at all.
Christmas Presents 2015
Friday, 5 August 2016
So for Christmas presents, Mike got me a kitchen aid. I love it. I had wanted it but didn't think I need it since I have my 250 watt hand mixer which works great, except that it does not have the fixture for kneading dough.
Mike wanted a tablet and he ordered one, so I paid him back and treated it as my Christmas present to him.
So for Christmas presents, Mike got me a kitchen aid. I love it. I had wanted it but didn't think I need it since I have my 250 watt hand mixer which works great, except that it does not have the fixture for kneading dough.
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| Christmas present from Mike - Kitchen Aid |
Mike wanted a tablet and he ordered one, so I paid him back and treated it as my Christmas present to him.
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| Christmas present for Mike - tablet |
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
Chinese New Year's Dinner 2016
Tuesday, 9 February 2016
Chinese New Year of the monkey started yesterday, Monday (8 February). Reunion dinner are traditionally held on the eve but we have ours today with 2 relatives. 2 other relatives could not make it, due to health problems so we invited 2 friends. Plus Mike and me, there were 6 of us. I have enough food for another 6 people!
I cooked 10 dishes this year! Just felt like trying different recipes from the internet. Using their recipes to blend into my own, they turned out all good! And traditionally, we want to have lots of leftovers (plenty) for the new year. And we did have a lot of leftovers.
Pork leg with vinegar
(http://annieliciousfood.blogspot.com/2012/10/mdm-chais-pig-trotter-in-vinegar-with.html) - lots of collagen! This is my late dad's favourite dish.
Braised chicken feet with Chinese mushrooms
(http://raymondskitchen.blogspot.com/2010/04/braised-chicken-feet-with-mushroom.html) - lots of collagen, as well! To those people who exclaimed this is yakky only by looking at the cooked feet and not even tasting it, I said they are not adventurous and they don't know what they are missing!
Stir fried ginger beef
(http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/stir_fry_ginger_beef/)
I prefer my braised version (the meat being more softer) but this turned out good too. This is beef and I probably had it in the pan too long.
Stuffed tofu with pork and prawns
(http://www.anyrecipe.net/asian/recipes/stuffed_tofu.html) - I made a sauce to dip them with. Delicious!
Chicken curry with potatoes
(http://rasamalaysia.com/chicken-curry-with-potatoes/2/) - one of my favourite dishes. My late mum liked to do this on a raining day.
Fried fish with soy sauce
(http://rasamalaysia.com/fried-fish-with-soy-sauce/2/) - love it!
Salt and pepper shrimp
(http://rasamalaysia.com/salt-and-pepper-shrimp-recipe/2/) - superb delicious!
Honey garlic spareribs
(http://chinesefood.about.com/od/spareribs/r/honeygarlicribs.htm) - would have been moist and grossy looking, if we haven't forgotten to brush the half way baked spareribs with honey and water mixture!
Monk's vegetables
(http://sunflower-recipes.blogspot.com/2010/02/buddhas-delight-or-monks-vegetables.html) - didn't turn out as good as I normally did, because I left it too long on the stove!
Spicy stir fried romaine lettuce
(http://bamskitchen.com/international-cuisines/chinese-cuisine/spicy-stirfried-romaine-lettuce/) - always love simple stir fried green vegetables cooked to right level of crunchiness.
Chinese New Year of the monkey started yesterday, Monday (8 February). Reunion dinner are traditionally held on the eve but we have ours today with 2 relatives. 2 other relatives could not make it, due to health problems so we invited 2 friends. Plus Mike and me, there were 6 of us. I have enough food for another 6 people!
I cooked 10 dishes this year! Just felt like trying different recipes from the internet. Using their recipes to blend into my own, they turned out all good! And traditionally, we want to have lots of leftovers (plenty) for the new year. And we did have a lot of leftovers.
Pork leg with vinegar
(http://annieliciousfood.blogspot.com/2012/10/mdm-chais-pig-trotter-in-vinegar-with.html) - lots of collagen! This is my late dad's favourite dish.
(http://raymondskitchen.blogspot.com/2010/04/braised-chicken-feet-with-mushroom.html) - lots of collagen, as well! To those people who exclaimed this is yakky only by looking at the cooked feet and not even tasting it, I said they are not adventurous and they don't know what they are missing!
Stir fried ginger beef
(http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/stir_fry_ginger_beef/)
I prefer my braised version (the meat being more softer) but this turned out good too. This is beef and I probably had it in the pan too long.
Stuffed tofu with pork and prawns
(http://www.anyrecipe.net/asian/recipes/stuffed_tofu.html) - I made a sauce to dip them with. Delicious!
Chicken curry with potatoes
(http://rasamalaysia.com/chicken-curry-with-potatoes/2/) - one of my favourite dishes. My late mum liked to do this on a raining day.
Fried fish with soy sauce
(http://rasamalaysia.com/fried-fish-with-soy-sauce/2/) - love it!
Salt and pepper shrimp
(http://rasamalaysia.com/salt-and-pepper-shrimp-recipe/2/) - superb delicious!
Honey garlic spareribs
(http://chinesefood.about.com/od/spareribs/r/honeygarlicribs.htm) - would have been moist and grossy looking, if we haven't forgotten to brush the half way baked spareribs with honey and water mixture!
Monk's vegetables
(http://sunflower-recipes.blogspot.com/2010/02/buddhas-delight-or-monks-vegetables.html) - didn't turn out as good as I normally did, because I left it too long on the stove!
Spicy stir fried romaine lettuce
(http://bamskitchen.com/international-cuisines/chinese-cuisine/spicy-stirfried-romaine-lettuce/) - always love simple stir fried green vegetables cooked to right level of crunchiness.
Valentine's Day 2016
Saturday, 13 February 2016
Mike decided to celebrate Valentine's Day today, by taking me to my favorite restaurant, Olive Garden. Left the house after 6 pm but only got to the restaurant about 7:45 pm.
Mike wanted to get his prescribed sunglasses done so we drove to the mall which is near the restaurant. Unfortunately the sunglasses shop, illegally, could only do it with a doctor's prescription, which Mike forgot to bring (which was a blessing in disguise, because he got a better deal online, via his health insurance, a few days later). Then we got lost, finding our way back to the right exit to our car.
I don't like rides on the expressway, especially when it is not straight. The GPS got us passing the Olive Garden, which we found out was actually across the expressway from the mall. Mike saw the restaurant. This was our 1st time dinning at at this location.
We were told it would be 30 minutes wait time. Mike asked if it was okay with me. I was tired from the stress ride, the walk inside the mall and I was hungry (killing my hunger with not too much chips in the car). I said, let's go, it is too long a wait. On 2nd thought, I said we would wait since we have already travelled 17 miles and spent 1-3/4 hrs. And who knows it might NOT take 30 minutes to be seated. And thank goodness, it didn't. Our beeper sounded while we were sharing a drink at the bar.
I enjoyed the Olive Garden restaurant. I love the crispy salad (that is a must for me there). I would be happy with that unlimited appetizer and the unlimited soup. Eat all you can, breadsticks, were complimentary and great too! I didn't order the soup this visit because Mike would be upset if I go cheapy, if I don't order an entree, because it is his Valentine's Day celebration and gift to me, taking me to my favorite restaurant. So I ordered baked tilapia with scrimps while Mike ordered eggplant parmigiana.
Interestingly, for the very 1st time, we saw a ziosk, the first digital order/pay-at-the-table entertainment tablet touchscreen, on the table. We didn't order from there but we paid through the tablet. I was told some days later that you could end up with extra charges if you play the games on their tablet!
Thank you, Mike. I didn't like the car ride nor did I like the mall visit, but I like the dinner.
Winter Jackets/Coat/Boots
Friday, 8 January 2016
I don't like winter because I have to wear 3 layers (including fleece wear) in our heated 68-70 deg F home. Sleep time would be plus heated mattress and sandwiched in blanket, covered with bedsheet and spread. And neck warmer + woolen, if not double, socks + head thermal fleece! I would die if I am in Alaska! Mike calls me his snow bunny! Someone said that I need an eskimo suit!
I am very blessed and thankful for the jacket that I was given in 2009, by family members, who could not fit into it anymore. To this day, it is my favorite jacket, even though it didn't come with the hood (which I guess was lost).
The zeroxposure jacket is comfortable and warm. Thanks to the features (shell: 100% polyester with polynrethane coating, body lining: 100% polyester, sleeve lining: 100% polyester, body filler: 60% down / 40% feathers, hood filler: 100% polyester). It is made in China.
It was a gift so I have never checked the price of the jacket. Today, I was curious if it is still in the market. It was selling for $69.99 on ebay.com. Mine is still in perfect condition, so I didn't need a new one. The price discovery was informative.
Given to me also, with the zeroxposure jacket, was a pair of LA Gear boots. I love it too. They are strong, comfortable and warm too! And I still have them! Unlike the zeroxposure jacket, I couldn't find these particular LA Gear boots in the internet. So I don't know if it is still available in the market and how much they cost.
On the 22 October 2015, I fell in love with these pair of snow boots at a thrift store. It was $4.99. It has fleece lining. It is smart looking, comfortable and warm too. I am seeing smalls peels already in the creases area of the synthetic leather. That is okay. That is why it is sold for $4.99 in the thrift store. I can still wear until I can't!
At the thrift store, this $6.48 winter coat caught my eye too. I love the color. Some weeks later, my daughter said it was too big for me and it is. Anyway, it did the work I needed, shield me from the wind and cold. And big enough to cover the layers of clothing I wore! And I only wear it on my way to/from church.
I don't like winter because I have to wear 3 layers (including fleece wear) in our heated 68-70 deg F home. Sleep time would be plus heated mattress and sandwiched in blanket, covered with bedsheet and spread. And neck warmer + woolen, if not double, socks + head thermal fleece! I would die if I am in Alaska! Mike calls me his snow bunny! Someone said that I need an eskimo suit!
I am very blessed and thankful for the jacket that I was given in 2009, by family members, who could not fit into it anymore. To this day, it is my favorite jacket, even though it didn't come with the hood (which I guess was lost).
The zeroxposure jacket is comfortable and warm. Thanks to the features (shell: 100% polyester with polynrethane coating, body lining: 100% polyester, sleeve lining: 100% polyester, body filler: 60% down / 40% feathers, hood filler: 100% polyester). It is made in China.
It was a gift so I have never checked the price of the jacket. Today, I was curious if it is still in the market. It was selling for $69.99 on ebay.com. Mine is still in perfect condition, so I didn't need a new one. The price discovery was informative.
Given to me also, with the zeroxposure jacket, was a pair of LA Gear boots. I love it too. They are strong, comfortable and warm too! And I still have them! Unlike the zeroxposure jacket, I couldn't find these particular LA Gear boots in the internet. So I don't know if it is still available in the market and how much they cost.
On the 22 October 2015, I fell in love with these pair of snow boots at a thrift store. It was $4.99. It has fleece lining. It is smart looking, comfortable and warm too. I am seeing smalls peels already in the creases area of the synthetic leather. That is okay. That is why it is sold for $4.99 in the thrift store. I can still wear until I can't!
At the thrift store, this $6.48 winter coat caught my eye too. I love the color. Some weeks later, my daughter said it was too big for me and it is. Anyway, it did the work I needed, shield me from the wind and cold. And big enough to cover the layers of clothing I wore! And I only wear it on my way to/from church.
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Mother's Day Presents 2015
22 April 2015
On arriving at her home this evening, Lian handed me a gift bag and said it was an early Mother's Day's present. Inside was a pair of sneakers!
I have seen sneakers that Lian had painted and I asked if she could paint for me too. I didn't know what design and I guess she must have thought hard what would be suitable for a middle-age woman. I love it, Lian. Thank you so much.
AND inside the gift bag was also a box - Samsung Galaxy Tab4, 7.0" (177.7 mm) WXGA LCD (1280 x 800) (Wifi, 8GB, Pouch included), 1.2GHz Quad Core Processor, 3MP FF Camera + 1.3MP Front, GPS/GL0NASS, 4,000mAh battery.
Thank you, Lian, Clifford, Anthony and Nehemia, for the amazing gift. I have seen people using it but had not intend to purchase one since I have my laptop.
I love it. I am now able to go online anywhere in the house and outside the home, wherever there is wi-fi.
Thank you so much.
On arriving at her home this evening, Lian handed me a gift bag and said it was an early Mother's Day's present. Inside was a pair of sneakers!
I have seen sneakers that Lian had painted and I asked if she could paint for me too. I didn't know what design and I guess she must have thought hard what would be suitable for a middle-age woman. I love it, Lian. Thank you so much.
AND inside the gift bag was also a box - Samsung Galaxy Tab4, 7.0" (177.7 mm) WXGA LCD (1280 x 800) (Wifi, 8GB, Pouch included), 1.2GHz Quad Core Processor, 3MP FF Camera + 1.3MP Front, GPS/GL0NASS, 4,000mAh battery.
Thank you, Lian, Clifford, Anthony and Nehemia, for the amazing gift. I have seen people using it but had not intend to purchase one since I have my laptop.
I love it. I am now able to go online anywhere in the house and outside the home, wherever there is wi-fi.
Thank you so much.
Saturday, February 21, 2015
Chinese New Year Dinner 2015
Friday, 20 February 2015
Last year we had the dinner (http://renejenny.blogspot.com/2014/03/chinese-new-year-dinner-2014.html) one month into the Year of the Horse. We had 2 guests then. The year had passed and the Chinese New Year of the Goat is in. This year we also had 2 adults guests as well, the difference is that they are family. And we also have a 3rd guest in a 3 yr old granddaughter. The CNY dinner is actually a reunion dinner and usually celebrated on the CNY's eve, when family members gathered together. Tonight's dinner is indeed a reunion dinner, even though it is not celebrated on the CNY's eve.
As usual, the traditional Hakka yong tau foo (stuffed bean curd). I deep fried the stuffed bean curd, then braised them with Chinese mushrooms.
Some of the following dishes were only thought of when I was preparing the ingredients.
We love blanced bok choy. So this is a must, even though it is the simpliest dish
Like usual, we bought the following meat from the oriental store:
Last year we had the dinner (http://renejenny.blogspot.com/2014/03/chinese-new-year-dinner-2014.html) one month into the Year of the Horse. We had 2 guests then. The year had passed and the Chinese New Year of the Goat is in. This year we also had 2 adults guests as well, the difference is that they are family. And we also have a 3rd guest in a 3 yr old granddaughter. The CNY dinner is actually a reunion dinner and usually celebrated on the CNY's eve, when family members gathered together. Tonight's dinner is indeed a reunion dinner, even though it is not celebrated on the CNY's eve.
As usual, the traditional Hakka yong tau foo (stuffed bean curd). I deep fried the stuffed bean curd, then braised them with Chinese mushrooms.
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| Stuffed Bean Curd |
Some of the following dishes were only thought of when I was preparing the ingredients.
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| Stir fried Chinese chives with eggs |
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| Stir fried snow peas with carrots and minced pork |
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| Stir fried prawns with celery |
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| Sweet and sour fish |
We love blanced bok choy. So this is a must, even though it is the simpliest dish
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| Blanced bok choy |
Like usual, we bought the following meat from the oriental store:
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| Roasted and barbequed pork |
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| Roasted duck |
Friday, January 23, 2015
Posting Jobs on Craigslist
So I posted on Craigslist "Elderly Helper/Companion" in 2014 hoping to find extra money. I am thinking of just being a companion, like spending time playing board games, like that, nothing sexually. And these were the responses that I received:
(1) Offered job to do "Mail Services" - I checked the internet and found out that it was a scam.
Responder: Found your advert of looking for a part time job? Are you available to run errands? I am looking for someone who can handle my personal Assistant and run business errands at his/her spare time. Someone who can offer me these services: Mail services: Receive my mails and drop them off at UPS (nothing illegal). Shop for GiftsSit for delivery (at your home) or pick items up at nearby post office at your convenience. Let me know if you will be able to offer me any of these services.
My reply: Thanks for your offer. Could you call and explain your business and we will decided.
Responder: My name is ........ and this job is flexible so you can do it wherever you are provided that there is a post office in the area. In addition to that, I don't mind you doing all of the tasks during your spare time outside of work or school. I wish I could meet up with you to talk about this job in person but I am currently away on business. All errands will be in your city/town so it is not a must that you have a car for the job, you can go places by bus or taxi. When you get my mails/packages; you are required to mail them to where I want them mailed to. Cash some check when they are sent to you. You won't have to put money out of your pocket, that's all you have to do. You are allowed to open the packages to reveal the content. The content of the packages will be business and personal mails.
My reply: Sorry, we have to decline your offer. Thanks and good luck.
(2) To contact the sender on his/her private mail - I didn't like him/her to contact his/her private mail - sounds fishy.
Responder: Read your post on craigslist seeking for a job. Do you still need one? If YES, contact me on my private mail ......... for more info.
My reply Thks for ur msg. I have to decline ur offer. Good luck.
(3) Seeking a mature, compassionate elderly woman caregiver - I thought this is genuine offer. I couldn't perform the duties they listed. And furthermore I do not want to leave my present job. Also why didn't they call?
Responder: Companion and Personal Care is seeking a mature, compassionate caregive available 3-4 hours. Must have a caring heart and experience caring for the elderly. Disabled woman bedridden, needs someone to assist with changing, cooking and PT. 3 times a week from 9am to 12pm, weekends off. Duties may include: Companionship, medication reminders, transportation (available), personal care. ... (email address)....., $XXX Weekly Caregiver/CNA.
My reply: Thks for ur offer. Not available for that time. What I am looking for is simple 'babysitting' and companionship for few hrs at night when family need to get away. Good luck. Hope someone could help this lady.
(4) Offering job to post adverts on Craigslist - I feel uncomfortable with the offer.
Responder: Good morning to you and your family. Get back to me if you are still looking for job.
My reply: Thks for asking. I m happy with my present job even though very little hrs. What I am looking for is simple 'babysitting' and compansionship for a few hrs at night when family need to get away. What have u to offer?
Responder: Craigslists ads poster is needed, in which you will be posting advert on Craigslist and get paid $XXX weekly. Let me know if you are interested in the offer.
My reply: I don't think so. Thank u. Good luck.
(5) Offered job as a Nanny/Baby Sitter - Sounds fishy, asking for my resume and no suggestion of meeting me first and yet offering to pay me in advance. And also I have stated my age in my advert and yet they remarked that if I am a college student....
Responder: Hi am ....... A friend of mine is relocating and will need a Nanny/Baby sitter for her 2yrs old Boy. Kindly contact her on ..... (email address)...
My reply: Thanks, I will email her.
So that friend of his introduced herself and wrote me a long email listing my duty. Said that she will instruct her financial assistant to pay for the first week before their arrival so as to secure my service in advanace. She will also like me to send a copy of my resume and also send her my full name and address so that the payment for my services can be issued out to me. Also said if I am a college student, we could work around.
I emailed back decling her offer.
(6) Offered job (didn't say what) - sounds fishy.
Responder: Hello, my name is ......... im .............. of ........... COMPANY you can get back to me if you need of any job. Regards.
My reply: Thanks ....., I can work the wk days when I am not on my present job. And they only schedule 1 wk ahead. I am available next Tue n Fr. What have u to offer?
Reponder: Okay good, what is your name and your age and also where are you from?
My reply: Tell me what job n I c if I am interested first. I have office experience too. Where is this job? My age is in my advert. Jobs would have to commutable to where I live (advert). Thanks again.
(Responder didn't replied)
Don't trust Craigslist! I deleted my advert 9 days after I posted it.
(1) Offered job to do "Mail Services" - I checked the internet and found out that it was a scam.
Responder: Found your advert of looking for a part time job? Are you available to run errands? I am looking for someone who can handle my personal Assistant and run business errands at his/her spare time. Someone who can offer me these services: Mail services: Receive my mails and drop them off at UPS (nothing illegal). Shop for GiftsSit for delivery (at your home) or pick items up at nearby post office at your convenience. Let me know if you will be able to offer me any of these services.
My reply: Thanks for your offer. Could you call and explain your business and we will decided.
Responder: My name is ........ and this job is flexible so you can do it wherever you are provided that there is a post office in the area. In addition to that, I don't mind you doing all of the tasks during your spare time outside of work or school. I wish I could meet up with you to talk about this job in person but I am currently away on business. All errands will be in your city/town so it is not a must that you have a car for the job, you can go places by bus or taxi. When you get my mails/packages; you are required to mail them to where I want them mailed to. Cash some check when they are sent to you. You won't have to put money out of your pocket, that's all you have to do. You are allowed to open the packages to reveal the content. The content of the packages will be business and personal mails.
My reply: Sorry, we have to decline your offer. Thanks and good luck.
(2) To contact the sender on his/her private mail - I didn't like him/her to contact his/her private mail - sounds fishy.
Responder: Read your post on craigslist seeking for a job. Do you still need one? If YES, contact me on my private mail ......... for more info.
My reply Thks for ur msg. I have to decline ur offer. Good luck.
(3) Seeking a mature, compassionate elderly woman caregiver - I thought this is genuine offer. I couldn't perform the duties they listed. And furthermore I do not want to leave my present job. Also why didn't they call?
Responder: Companion and Personal Care is seeking a mature, compassionate caregive available 3-4 hours. Must have a caring heart and experience caring for the elderly. Disabled woman bedridden, needs someone to assist with changing, cooking and PT. 3 times a week from 9am to 12pm, weekends off. Duties may include: Companionship, medication reminders, transportation (available), personal care. ... (email address)....., $XXX Weekly Caregiver/CNA.
My reply: Thks for ur offer. Not available for that time. What I am looking for is simple 'babysitting' and companionship for few hrs at night when family need to get away. Good luck. Hope someone could help this lady.
(4) Offering job to post adverts on Craigslist - I feel uncomfortable with the offer.
Responder: Good morning to you and your family. Get back to me if you are still looking for job.
My reply: Thks for asking. I m happy with my present job even though very little hrs. What I am looking for is simple 'babysitting' and compansionship for a few hrs at night when family need to get away. What have u to offer?
Responder: Craigslists ads poster is needed, in which you will be posting advert on Craigslist and get paid $XXX weekly. Let me know if you are interested in the offer.
My reply: I don't think so. Thank u. Good luck.
(5) Offered job as a Nanny/Baby Sitter - Sounds fishy, asking for my resume and no suggestion of meeting me first and yet offering to pay me in advance. And also I have stated my age in my advert and yet they remarked that if I am a college student....
Responder: Hi am ....... A friend of mine is relocating and will need a Nanny/Baby sitter for her 2yrs old Boy. Kindly contact her on ..... (email address)...
My reply: Thanks, I will email her.
So that friend of his introduced herself and wrote me a long email listing my duty. Said that she will instruct her financial assistant to pay for the first week before their arrival so as to secure my service in advanace. She will also like me to send a copy of my resume and also send her my full name and address so that the payment for my services can be issued out to me. Also said if I am a college student, we could work around.
I emailed back decling her offer.
(6) Offered job (didn't say what) - sounds fishy.
Responder: Hello, my name is ......... im .............. of ........... COMPANY you can get back to me if you need of any job. Regards.
My reply: Thanks ....., I can work the wk days when I am not on my present job. And they only schedule 1 wk ahead. I am available next Tue n Fr. What have u to offer?
Reponder: Okay good, what is your name and your age and also where are you from?
My reply: Tell me what job n I c if I am interested first. I have office experience too. Where is this job? My age is in my advert. Jobs would have to commutable to where I live (advert). Thanks again.
(Responder didn't replied)
Don't trust Craigslist! I deleted my advert 9 days after I posted it.
One of Those Bad Days (2) - Wrong Flight
Sunday, 1 June 2014
Whole time during the day, Uncle CN was in Mike's mind.
Talking to Roger that evening, Mike learnt that Uncle CN had passed away that
morning. Mike love and respect Uncle CN for his kindness when Mike was a
young boy. We talked about driving the 21 hours or flying there for
Uncle CN's funeral.
Monday, 2 June 2014
It was after 5 pm that the funeral was confirmed for 10 am on
Wednesday in Okemah Oklahoma. Mike accepted my views to fly to the
funeral himself. We could not afford the cost of airfares for both of
us. And I did not feel up to the drive, due to gastric attacks since
Friday. He bought his air ticket from the US Airways reservation
agent, via the phone. I saw the fare in the bank account.
An hour passed and Mike had not received the itinerary. I called the
airlines and found that the email address was incorrect! I had heard Mike
reading the email address over the phone but I did not hear the reservation
clerk reading it back to ensure it is accurate.
Tuesday, 3 June 2014
The flight that Mike thought he had booked was
Tampa/Charlotte/Fayetteville AR but the flights that he got on was
Tampa/Charlotte/Fayetteville NC (10:20/12:05-14:37/15:30).
6:24 pm, Mike messaged that he was in the wrong airport!
I checked the itinerary email. It read Tampa FL to Fayetteteville NC! It
was partly my fault for not noticing the error in the name of the State!
Mike carried a hard copy of the itinerary and didn't realise the mistake as
well. Mike didn't realised he had boarded the "wrong" flight
(right flight according to the confirmation email) nor did he realised the
mistake inside the plane (with the announcements) or at landing that it is NC
and not AR that the flight has taken him!
Mike's cousin had waited at Fayetteville AR, called and asked him
where he was. Mike said he was already there and then he saw a sign that said
Fayetteville NC! We are thankful that the US Airways humbly recognised that
there was a mistake on the part of the booking clerk. Mike was put up at
the Holiday Inn hotel (910-323-1600, room 1061) for the night. US
Airways arranged for him to fly tomorrow by Delta Airlines: Fayetteville
NC/Atlanta/Tulsa (6:00/7:19-8:35/9:35)(ref. 5084Y). His return
flight, on Saturday, was also amended to Fayetteville AR/Charlotte/Tampa
(7:05/10:20-11:35/13:12) by US Airways.
Wednesday, 4 June 2014
Mike arrived at the Delta counter as
directed. A young lady confirmed his name was on the their list, however
the US Airways had not booked it properly. 5 mins to 6 am flight, Mike
was handed a ticket and told to go the departure gate. The boarding pass
was not done properly and Mike was denied boarding.
Long story short, Mike missed his Uncle's funeral. He was very unhappy with the way US Airways handled the situation. He asked that US Airways would just fly him back to Tampa FL. They said they have to charge for the change in date! Mike was no angry that he bought a ticket with the Delta Airlines and flew back this day.
This whole situation and mistake cost us $819.32 (inclusive of $523.50 wrong return ticket by US Airways, $211.50 one way ticket with Delta Airlines, and other expenses). It is as if that amount has been thrown away. It is very upsetting when you are already living on a budget.
Personally, both US Airways and we (the customers) are to share the mistake. US Airways should have accommodated Mike's wish to just fly back to Tamps on the 4th June without any charge for the change of date. Also Mike should have realised the mistake, through the announcements, etc.
As of date, the US Airways gave Mike till the 1 June 2015 to use the remaining of his ticket with no charge in the change of original date.
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Coach for Ladies Only
Monday, 25 August 2014
We didn't enter as we had male in our company. However I did when I was travelling alone on the 30 September 2014. And I like it. Just ladies in that section of the train - coach for ladies only.
.JPG)
We didn't enter as we had male in our company. However I did when I was travelling alone on the 30 September 2014. And I like it. Just ladies in that section of the train - coach for ladies only.
A Picture of Remembrance
Saturday, 15 November 2014
Do you ever come across any painting or picture that tugs on your heartstrings. This one does. Reminds me of my childhood with my 2 younger brothers. I love it.
Do you ever come across any painting or picture that tugs on your heartstrings. This one does. Reminds me of my childhood with my 2 younger brothers. I love it.
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
A Driver License Finally
Wednesday, 30 July 2014
Finally, after 7 years, I got my Driver License Class E!
Mike had asked me ever since I came (2007) to the US to get my license (licence in UK) but I refused. My experience with him, instructing me, was a pressure NOT a pleasure. Kept telling me to drive according the speed limit posted. I have learnt that the unlawful speed is 15 mph or more and 16 mph or less below posted speed. I was not comfortable driving at 70 mph. And I was not used to the car, which is bigger than what I am used to.
On 12 March, 2012, I applied for a Learner Permit, whereby I must be accompanied by a licensed driver, 21 years of age or older, who occupies the front passenger seat. Passed the vision and written test. Paid $25.50 ($4 application fee + $21.50 license fee). It was valid until 03-31-2016. Drove only during the 1st 3 months.
On 9 October, 2012, Sister Susan Oa..... took me the Arkansas State Police to enquire if I needed to take a driving test to obtain a driver license. I had to bring the original US visa and a green card when I come and apply. I took home an Arkansas Driving License Study Guide. I don't remember whom I asked if my OK Learner Permit could be used in AR and I was told that it was recognised. Thinking back, I believed that there was a miscommunication there. Why?
We are living in a gated community. Mike said it is not illegal for me (no FL Driver License) to drive inside the residential park, so long as I am in the public roads. So beginning 17 March 2014 (St. Patrick's Day), after having lived in the park since August 2013, I got behind the wheel again! Got to be more confident with my driving and decided to call a local driving school on the 21 June, 2014. And the school said that my out-of-state Learner Permit is recognised here in Florida! They charged $245 for 4 hours and $445 for 8 hours lessons.
On the 23 June, 2014, I called the Florida Transport Dept. And yes, my OK Learner Permit is recognised here. However because I had been a resident over 6 months, I have to transfer the OK license to a FL license. I was told to bring two proofs of Personal Identification and two proofs of my residential address.
So on the 24 June, 2014, I got my FL Learner License Class E and it expires 07-25-2022. Paid $54.25 ($48 License Fee + $6.25 Service Fee). Since then I have been driving whenever Mike & I go out, even though there are times I would rather be a passenger. I was not happy being forced to drive.
Today, I decided it is time I sit for my driving test and get a Driver License. Michael said I am ready. Sally said I am ready. Ellen said the same. I felt ready until I read "Stop/Start on a Grade", at the testing center. I had not practised this! My 'tutors' (Michael and Ellen) and I didn't do this at all! This is the part where I was told by the examiner, after the driving test, that I should have signalled when I was leaving the parked spot. This was done on the side of the road, as there is no hill.
Anyway, the examiner said I passed. What a relief. Took me more than 7 years to get a US Driver License. Read 4 different states of Driver's Handbooks (Arizona, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Florida). And after 2 Driver Permits. I only had to paid service fee of $6.25 for the upgrade from Learner License Class E to Driver License Class E, with the same validity dates.
Sister Geok Lee, you would be happy if you know that I finally did it. Even though you have departed from this mortal world since the 6 November 2012, it was you who actually spur me to set getting my US Driver License as the year's resolution. I think it probably in 2011 that you wrote and encouraged me. Thank you.
Took me 7 years to have the courage to get a license to drive on the right side of the road, after having driven over 35 years on the left side of the road.
Finally, after 7 years, I got my Driver License Class E!
Mike had asked me ever since I came (2007) to the US to get my license (licence in UK) but I refused. My experience with him, instructing me, was a pressure NOT a pleasure. Kept telling me to drive according the speed limit posted. I have learnt that the unlawful speed is 15 mph or more and 16 mph or less below posted speed. I was not comfortable driving at 70 mph. And I was not used to the car, which is bigger than what I am used to.
On 12 March, 2012, I applied for a Learner Permit, whereby I must be accompanied by a licensed driver, 21 years of age or older, who occupies the front passenger seat. Passed the vision and written test. Paid $25.50 ($4 application fee + $21.50 license fee). It was valid until 03-31-2016. Drove only during the 1st 3 months.
On 9 October, 2012, Sister Susan Oa..... took me the Arkansas State Police to enquire if I needed to take a driving test to obtain a driver license. I had to bring the original US visa and a green card when I come and apply. I took home an Arkansas Driving License Study Guide. I don't remember whom I asked if my OK Learner Permit could be used in AR and I was told that it was recognised. Thinking back, I believed that there was a miscommunication there. Why?
We are living in a gated community. Mike said it is not illegal for me (no FL Driver License) to drive inside the residential park, so long as I am in the public roads. So beginning 17 March 2014 (St. Patrick's Day), after having lived in the park since August 2013, I got behind the wheel again! Got to be more confident with my driving and decided to call a local driving school on the 21 June, 2014. And the school said that my out-of-state Learner Permit is recognised here in Florida! They charged $245 for 4 hours and $445 for 8 hours lessons.
On the 23 June, 2014, I called the Florida Transport Dept. And yes, my OK Learner Permit is recognised here. However because I had been a resident over 6 months, I have to transfer the OK license to a FL license. I was told to bring two proofs of Personal Identification and two proofs of my residential address.
So on the 24 June, 2014, I got my FL Learner License Class E and it expires 07-25-2022. Paid $54.25 ($48 License Fee + $6.25 Service Fee). Since then I have been driving whenever Mike & I go out, even though there are times I would rather be a passenger. I was not happy being forced to drive.
Today, I decided it is time I sit for my driving test and get a Driver License. Michael said I am ready. Sally said I am ready. Ellen said the same. I felt ready until I read "Stop/Start on a Grade", at the testing center. I had not practised this! My 'tutors' (Michael and Ellen) and I didn't do this at all! This is the part where I was told by the examiner, after the driving test, that I should have signalled when I was leaving the parked spot. This was done on the side of the road, as there is no hill.
Anyway, the examiner said I passed. What a relief. Took me more than 7 years to get a US Driver License. Read 4 different states of Driver's Handbooks (Arizona, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Florida). And after 2 Driver Permits. I only had to paid service fee of $6.25 for the upgrade from Learner License Class E to Driver License Class E, with the same validity dates.
Sister Geok Lee, you would be happy if you know that I finally did it. Even though you have departed from this mortal world since the 6 November 2012, it was you who actually spur me to set getting my US Driver License as the year's resolution. I think it probably in 2011 that you wrote and encouraged me. Thank you.
Took me 7 years to have the courage to get a license to drive on the right side of the road, after having driven over 35 years on the left side of the road.
Saturday, July 26, 2014
Robin's (bird) Nest in a Bicycle Helmet
Wednesday, 2 July 2014
Mike hasn't been cycling since 30 April, due to physical reasons. He was thinking of cycling again and that was when he noticed his helmet had a nest and 4 eggs in it. I haven't cycled since 12 June! That showed how much attention we have been of our surroundings. They were parked close to where we go in and out of the house!
Tuesday, 15 July 2014
Since the day we saw the nest of eggs, I can't help looking into the nest whenever I go in and out of the house. Initially the mother bird would fly off when she heard us opening out door to go out. This day we saw the eggs had hatched and there were 4 hungry baby birds. Whenever we approached the nest, their mouths were opened.
Wednesday, 16 July 2014
We think the mother bird knows I am a woman and a mother too. There were times when she didn't fly away when I came out of the door. But when Mike came out, she flew away! This day, the baby birds were sleeping.
Monday, 21 July 2014
The baby birds have grown and they were sleeping. I even touched them with my fingers. Their feathers felt soft and smooth.
Thursday, 24 July 2014
In the morning, I noticed that the baby birds have not been active since I touched them on Monday and I haven't seen the mother bird as well. I was worried if my touch had left a scent causing the mother bird to abandon her babies. A neighbor suggested I could try feeding the babies with sunflower seeds so that they woudn't die of starvation.
In the afternoon, they were still motionless. I had also reached into the nest and touched them. Shined a torch into the nest, their eyes were not moving. Shaked the helmet, no sign of life. So I told Mike that I thought they were dead. Maybe they have died of starvation. I suggested to throw the nest out that evening because I don't want to throw them out tomorrow (my birthday). When Mike unlatched the helmet from the bicycle and reach his fingers inside to feel the babies, we were shocked when one baby flew onto the ground. They were alive! Mike picked the baby up, placed it back into the nest and hanged back the helmet.
Friday, 25 July 2014
We were so happy. The nest was empty. No sign of feathers on the ground, which means they were not eaten by any predators, which means the babies had flown away! What a great birthday present for me! The past 3 days I had not seen the mother bird at the nest, but I had seen a robin standing on the porch and making noises. I have read that mother birds calling her babies to fly! So maybe that was it. We will wait for a few days before we dump the empty nest, and see what happens. I am grateful for this experience.
Mike hasn't been cycling since 30 April, due to physical reasons. He was thinking of cycling again and that was when he noticed his helmet had a nest and 4 eggs in it. I haven't cycled since 12 June! That showed how much attention we have been of our surroundings. They were parked close to where we go in and out of the house!
 |
| Surprise - bird nest with eggs in helmet (1) |
.JPG) |
| Surprise - bird nest with eggs in helmet (2) |
.JPG) |
| Surprise - bird nest with eggs in helmet (3) |
Since the day we saw the nest of eggs, I can't help looking into the nest whenever I go in and out of the house. Initially the mother bird would fly off when she heard us opening out door to go out. This day we saw the eggs had hatched and there were 4 hungry baby birds. Whenever we approached the nest, their mouths were opened.
.JPG) |
| Baby robins are hungry |
Wednesday, 16 July 2014
We think the mother bird knows I am a woman and a mother too. There were times when she didn't fly away when I came out of the door. But when Mike came out, she flew away! This day, the baby birds were sleeping.
.JPG) |
| Growing! |
Monday, 21 July 2014
The baby birds have grown and they were sleeping. I even touched them with my fingers. Their feathers felt soft and smooth.
Thursday, 24 July 2014
In the morning, I noticed that the baby birds have not been active since I touched them on Monday and I haven't seen the mother bird as well. I was worried if my touch had left a scent causing the mother bird to abandon her babies. A neighbor suggested I could try feeding the babies with sunflower seeds so that they woudn't die of starvation.
In the afternoon, they were still motionless. I had also reached into the nest and touched them. Shined a torch into the nest, their eyes were not moving. Shaked the helmet, no sign of life. So I told Mike that I thought they were dead. Maybe they have died of starvation. I suggested to throw the nest out that evening because I don't want to throw them out tomorrow (my birthday). When Mike unlatched the helmet from the bicycle and reach his fingers inside to feel the babies, we were shocked when one baby flew onto the ground. They were alive! Mike picked the baby up, placed it back into the nest and hanged back the helmet.
Friday, 25 July 2014
We were so happy. The nest was empty. No sign of feathers on the ground, which means they were not eaten by any predators, which means the babies had flown away! What a great birthday present for me! The past 3 days I had not seen the mother bird at the nest, but I had seen a robin standing on the porch and making noises. I have read that mother birds calling her babies to fly! So maybe that was it. We will wait for a few days before we dump the empty nest, and see what happens. I am grateful for this experience.
.JPG) |
| Robins are gone! |
Saturday, July 05, 2014
Displinary Warning Letter (1)
Two days ago (Thursday, 3 July 2014), a customer said she would pay her purchase by cheque. I told her she does not need to fill the cheque out and it would be printed "void" and would be returned to her. Unfortunately the computer could not read her cheque. So I called the Asst. Mgr. (Be) for help. He tried, and failed to have the cheque read too. He called for the Store Mgr. (C), who also failed to have the cheque read by the computer. However, the Store Mgr. entered the cheque manually and the system accepted it. Store Mgr. placed the cheque into the till.
Asst. Mgr. (Ba) counted my till at the end of my shift and noticed that the cheque was blank! She notifed the Store Mgr. of the blank check. Asst. Mgr. called the tel. no. on the cheque, without success. I clocked out without signing my cashier report, of that $60 plus merchandise (blank cheque).
When I reported to work yesterday (4 July 2014), Asst. Mgr (Kr) told me that she got hold of the customer, on the phone. AM (Kr) said that she would see the customer when she clock out at 3 pm, and would get the cheque signed. AM (Kr) came back to the store, showed the signed cheque to me, went into the office and informed the AM (Be) on duty.
At the end of my duty today (5 July 2014), AM (Ba) who took me down, handed me a displinary warning letter, from the Store Mgr (who had already left), to sign. The letter said verbal warning was given, which was not true. I signed the letter. Mike and a close friend said I shouldn't have signed the letter. However I made a remark that I was NOT totally responsible for the blank cheque. AM (Be) helped with the process. Store Mgr. made the final acceptance and had placed the cheque inside the till.
I don't think the Store Mgr. is going to be happy with my remark. I don't know what this will lead to, referring to her feelings towards me and how she would treat me from now on. She is a very good boss and I like her very much. However in this aspect, I know I am NOT totally responsible for this "blank cheque". More importantly, we finally got the cheque signed the next day. So why the disciplinary warning letter?
As for me, I will continue working hard for my present employer, be the best cashier that my employer and customers will remember.
Asst. Mgr. (Ba) counted my till at the end of my shift and noticed that the cheque was blank! She notifed the Store Mgr. of the blank check. Asst. Mgr. called the tel. no. on the cheque, without success. I clocked out without signing my cashier report, of that $60 plus merchandise (blank cheque).
When I reported to work yesterday (4 July 2014), Asst. Mgr (Kr) told me that she got hold of the customer, on the phone. AM (Kr) said that she would see the customer when she clock out at 3 pm, and would get the cheque signed. AM (Kr) came back to the store, showed the signed cheque to me, went into the office and informed the AM (Be) on duty.
At the end of my duty today (5 July 2014), AM (Ba) who took me down, handed me a displinary warning letter, from the Store Mgr (who had already left), to sign. The letter said verbal warning was given, which was not true. I signed the letter. Mike and a close friend said I shouldn't have signed the letter. However I made a remark that I was NOT totally responsible for the blank cheque. AM (Be) helped with the process. Store Mgr. made the final acceptance and had placed the cheque inside the till.
I don't think the Store Mgr. is going to be happy with my remark. I don't know what this will lead to, referring to her feelings towards me and how she would treat me from now on. She is a very good boss and I like her very much. However in this aspect, I know I am NOT totally responsible for this "blank cheque". More importantly, we finally got the cheque signed the next day. So why the disciplinary warning letter?
As for me, I will continue working hard for my present employer, be the best cashier that my employer and customers will remember.
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