I'm back

As you may have noticed, I have changed my blog look. It was getting a little 'blah' for me. However, I still like my peach-coloured background and decided to retain that element.

What have I been up to lately? Nothing much except eat, sleep and breathe Facebook! :) Suddenly there have been a surge of long lost friends and relatives coming out of the woodworks. It has been exciting catching up, posting photos of yesteryears (some really, really old - before I was born!) and reminiscing the simpler days gone by.

I have also been challenging myself to some word games and I have to say it is becoming addictive to the point of obsessive, which makes it stressful at times. It is time to let go. Just like blogging, it is meant to be fun not work. I will still be active in Facebook, just not stressing myself out to reach a goal in those darn word games. :D I, however, have to thank some of my friends who have put me up to the challenge (they are bloggers as well - you know who you are). ;)

It has been a dark and cloudy day - very unusual since we have had nothing but extreme heat. With Edouard making landfall (sorry to those living on the coast down south), it has brought my area (and many more) much relief. The latest news:

Edouard inland, beginning to weaken
Lead Meteorologist, The Weather Channel
11:07 a.m. Eastern Time 8/5/2008

Tropical Storm Edouard (60 mph) is swirling inland over extreme southeast Texas now and beginning to weaken.

As of 10 a.m. CDT, the center of Edouard was located about 40 miles west of Port Arthur, Texas, and moving toward the WNW at 15 mph.
A tropical storm warning remains in effect between Cameron, Louisiana, and San Luis Pass, Texas. The hurricane watch has been cancelled.
Heavy rain and gusty winds are expected to continue in southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana over the next several hours. Rainfall of 3 to 5 inches is likely along the track of Edouard, although isolated totals of 10 inches are not out of the question.
Winds gusted as high as 68 mph at Sabine Pass North just after the center of the storm crossed the coast this morning. Winds will drop off as Edouard continues to churn inland, but a few power outages are still likely in some of the more vigorous rainbands.

Elsewhere in the tropics, both the Atlantic and eastern Pacific Basins remain quiet. In the western Pacific, Tropical Storm Kammuri is expected to make landfall in Mainland China west of Hong Kong on Wednesday morning (U.S. time).

Anyway, I digressed. I was not supposed to blog about the weather, although it is an interesting subject ... seriously.

I was looking through some of my stuff that finally arrived from Malaysia (I chose sea mail) and found my old diary filled with poems - some I composed and some collected from other sources. Here's one which was penned on 17th March 1986. Warning: It is silly!

Out of the blues one day

Appeared a guy about 5 feet tall

His words were made of stammers

Which my friend could not make out at all

He introduced himself as someone,

Jacob Singh if I can recall

He stammered so much that all I could hear was

"Aaa...aaa ... I'm Jacob Singh", I think that was all.

He handed a gift to Christina

I think a week after that stammering incident

This time he spoke more fluently

But his shivers seem imminent

I was so right, I saw him shiver

Handing a gift so neatly wrapped

He handed it saying "Here's sssomething for ... for... y..you"

I think to wake him, he needed s slap

And so because of his height

We decided to name him 50

50 stands for 5 feet zero

Look at him and you will say "What a sight"

So, nowadays, if he's around

Christina beware, don't frown

For your 5 feet hero is bound

To catch you and pin you to the ground

Note: His name was not Jacob Singh, after all. It was something else, which I have forgotten. He was a student from Bangalore, India. After handing that gift to Christina, things warmed up between them.

Ah! memories.

On a break ... still

I am sure most of your have received this before (as I have) but it is an excuse for me to put in a filler while I am on my break.

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1. Why do we press harder on a remote control when we know the batteries are getting dead?

2. Why do banks charge a fee on "insufficient funds" when they know there is not enough money?

3. Why does someone believe you when you say there are four billion stars, but check when you say the paint is wet?

4. Why doesn't glue stick to the bottle?

5. Why do they use sterilized needles for death by lethal injection?

6. Why doesn't Tarzan have a beard?

7. Why does Superman stop bullets with his chest, but ducks when you throw a revolver at him?

8. Why do Kamikaze pilots wear helmets?

9. If people evolved from apes, why are there still apes?

10. Why do people constantly return to the refrigerator with hopes that something new to eat will have materialized?

11. Why do people keep running over a string a dozen times with their vacuum cleaner, then reach down, pick it up, examine it, then put it down to give the vacuum one more chance?

12. How do those dead bugs get into those enclosed light fixtures?

13. In Winter, why do we try to keep the house as warm as it was in Summer, when we complained about the heat in Summer?

14. How come you never hear father-in-law jokes?

Short break

Actually, I will be back when I can because I feel like taking a break from blogging.

Take care y'all.

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Note: Although I am on a break, I could not resist sharing this. We could learn something from dogs.

If a dog was the teacher you would learn stuff like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

When it's in your best interest, practice obedience.

Let others know when they've invaded your territory.

Take naps.

Stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back in the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout... run right back and make friends.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.

Be loyal. Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

May your troubles be less, your blessings more,
And may nothing but happiness, come through your door.

Wedding talk

Did you know that back in the 1500s (according to an email I received) most people got married in June because they took their yearly bath in May and still smelled pretty good by June? However, because they were starting to smell (I suppose towards the end of June), brides carried a bouquet of flowers to hide their body odor. Hence, the custom today of carrying a bouquet when getting married.

Hand bouquet arranged by Buds and Bees, KL

Fast forward to 1999, I know I smelled pretty good in June and the bouquet I carried definitely was not chosen to mask any odors that may have secreted from me on that hot afternoon. Besides, the flowers I had would not have done the job well.

Bouquet/posies for the bridal car arranged by the bride

At one time, I thought that wedding rings were only worn on the fourth finger of the left hand but when we moved to Germany, I found that my cousin was using hers on the fourth finger of her right hand. Now I wonder, if some are not aware of such differences, could they have missed their chances based on a ring? It could have been someone from a different culture who fancied another but didn't dare make a move because of the 'ring that binds'. Then again, for some, the ring does not really deter. They will make a move, regardless. :)

In some countries (UK, other Commonwealth nations, Japan, Korea, Ireland, the United States, Mexico, Brazil, Iran, Chile, Italy, France, Sweden, Finland and Slovenia), the wedding ring is worn on the left hand. This choice of finger relates to traditions purportedly dating to classical times, from an early usage reportedly referring to the fourth finger of the left hand as containing the vena amoris or "vein of love". At least in part due to this tradition, it became acceptable to wear the wedding ring on this finger. By wearing rings on the fourth finger of their left hands, a married couple symbolically declares their eternal love for each other. This has now become a matter of tradition and etiquette in these countries.

In other countries such as Germany, Norway, Greece, Russia, Spain, Peru, Slovakia, India, Colombia, Venezuela, Ukraine, and Poland, however, it is worn on the right hand. Orthodox Christians and Eastern Europeans also traditionally wear the wedding band on the right hand. Jewish couples wear the wedding ring on the left hand, even though it is placed on the right hand during the marriage ceremony. In The Netherlands, Catholics wear it on the left, all others on the right; in Austria, Catholics wear it on the right. In Belgium, the choice of hand depends on the region of the country. Greek people, many being Orthodox Christians, also wear the wedding rings on the right hand in keeping with Greek tradition. A traditional reason to wear the wedding ring on the right hand stems from Roman custom. The Latin word for left is "sinister", which in addition to this sense also has the same senses as the English word. The Latin word for right is "dexter", a word that evolved into "dexterity". Hence, the left hand had a negative connotation and the right a good one.

Traditionally, in India and those practicing Hinduism, a toe ring or bichiya is worn instead of a ring on a finger, although this is only for women, and increasingly worn along with a finger ring. (from Wikipedia)

(Picture borrowed from DownTheRoad.org)

On that note about the toe ring, I remember what a college mate said, which still tickles me till today. She said that she would be sure to enlarge the picture of her husband placing the ring on her toe and then hang it in the living room. She was convinced that that would be the only picture to indicate her man humbling himself before her. I have always wondered what happened to her. After studies, we went our separate ways. I would love to know if she ever fulfilled that intention. :)

I also learned that "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in your shoe." is a well known superstition which originated from Victorian times. It appears that we have lost the last sentence at some stage.

'Something old' - an old garter, or a piece of family jewellery or accessory is often used, linking the Bride back to her single life.
'Something new' represents future health, happiness and success, this is usually the wedding dress.
'Something borrowed' could be a small trinket borrowed from family or a friend. It is thought to bring greater luck if it comes from another happily married woman. It must be returned to ensure good luck.
'Something blue' - it was in ancient Israel, where the bride wore a blue ribbon as a symbol of her fidelity, that the custom of wearing 'something blue' originated.
Good wealth was wished for by placing 'a silver sixpence in your shoe.

Wedding cake baked and decorated by Dulcie Danker

Anyway, I have been watching quite a bit of wedding shows on TV - Bridezillas, Platinum Weddings, Wedding Planner, just to name a few. June seems to be a favourite month in the west. If you are married, how did you determine your wedding date and month?

Arriving at the church. Since my dad was not alive to give me away, I gave the honour to my uncle, who was also my godfather.

Most people choose it because it is available (as in my case and also on mum's advice that June is a good month) and/or it is convenient for family and friends. Some are guided by superstitions and traditional beliefs. Now, I wonder if my late mum was influenced by them. This is what I found:

January - Married when the year is new, he’ll be loving kind and true.
February - When February birds do mate you may wed, or dread your fate.
March - If you wed when March winds blow Joy and sorrow both you'll know.
April - Marry in April when you can Joy for maiden and the man.
May - Marry in the month of May and you'll surely rue the day.
June - Marry when the June roses grow over land and sea you'll go.
July - Those who in July do wed will labour for their daily bread.
August - Whoever wed in August be, many a change is sure to see.
September - Marry in September's shine, your living will be rich and fine.
October - If in October you do marry love will come, but riches tarry.
November - If you wed in bleak November only joys will come, remember.
December - When December's snows fall fast, marry and true love will last.

... and over the seas I went.

The Lady's Visit - Part 3 of 3

We thought we had retired for the evening until Marion asked if we were interested in taking a drive to downtown Austin, an hour away from her place. I thought it was a good idea because I wanted to see what Austin looked like at night. Pat was game for it too. Besides, that was our only chance because we only had one more day left and we had designated the next day to see San Antonio.

Although we did not go into any of the clubs or restaurants to experience what they had to offer, it was evident why Austin promotes its city as "The Live Music Capital of the World". There was just so much happening around us. We could hear the revelry of the night life from our drive by. We all agreed that, apart from very special occasions, the night life is not for us anymore. We prefer to be at home relaxing - reading, watching TV or sleeping. If we do go out with friends, a café or restaurant is more ideal than trying to talk above the music at dance clubs or pubs.

One thing that captivated our attention were the horse-drawn carriages. Since it was difficult to get a picture of the carriages from a moving car (and the next place to pull over was too far away from them), I did not get a chance to take close ups. Here's one courtesy of Austin Tours.

Now that I had a glimpse of downtown Austin (and familiarised myself with the roads), I promised myself that I will return someday and hopefully get to ride in one of those carriages. We had planned to stop at Starbucks in Round Rock on our way home but found it was closed - hours earlier.

Next morning, Pat and I headed out to San Antonio. Since it was a two-hour drive from Marion's place, we decided to break our journey by visiting my sister in law, Susan and her husband, John. They live south of Austin. Her son, Jason, and his family were in town and so was Benny, John's brother.

We sat around and caught up on news before having lunch. Susan treated us to a scrumptious meal at Cracker Barrel, a restaurant chain that serves traditional southern food. One thing I noticed at all Cracker Barrels, the porch has rows of rocking chairs - very inviting. (As we get older, we find every opportunity to sit down!)

The interiors are decorated with antiques - photographs, household items and always, at least, one gun (hopefully not used on patrons who feel the need to complain about their food). All Cracker Barrels have a store. The store carries mainly nostalgic merchandise. We did not have much time to shop but there was a quick opportunity to buy something for Susan.

Pat by the fireplace of the Cracker Barrel dining room

After lunch, we thanked Susan, hugged and kissed everyone good bye and parted ways. With the help of the GPS, I found my way into San Antonio's famous downtown area. I took the first available parking lot. (I did not want to waste time looking for more parking lots when we could be walking around looking at stuff).

Pat slotting our parking fee into the box at the lot.

On our way to The Alamo, I noticed that there were many empty shop lots. I wondered if they went out of business (or some did not want to attempt to open any) with the Riverwalk Mall around the corner. It is a pity because I feel little specialty shops add charm to a historic area. Besides, it would be nice to have some shops within reach from the parking lot - last minute shopping or a place to snack before hitting the road.

Anyway, here are some pictures taken at The Alamo, used as a fortress in the 19th century and was the scene of several military actions, including the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, one of the battles between the forces of the Republic of Texas and Mexico.

We also took the Riverwalk cruise and saw much of downtown from there. Our guide was very entertaining while giving us a brief history of San Antonio and what it had to offer.

By the way, I have a brother in law, living in San Antonio. Despite the horrendous traffic that was building up on a Friday evening (where does it not build up in cities of this world?), he made his way to The Alamo to meet us.

Mark unaware that I took his photo while he was sorting out business (work never ends)

Pat posing under the statue of Davy Crockett. He was an American folk hero, served in the Texas Revolution, and died at the age of 49 at the Battle of the Alamo. To know more about Davy Crockett, read here.

After we left San Antonio, we stopped at Susan's house to pick up my sunglasses which I had left behind. When we arrived at Marion's place at 9:40pm, she said that we had missed a bad storm. In fact, they were getting ready to take cover from a hurricane. It would have been scary if we were closer to her area an hour earlier. That made me realise that some things just happen for a reason. Our delay due to my forgotten item could have saved us from untold danger.

We left for home next morning thanking Marion for her wonderful hospitality. It was also a morning of promises - that we will meet again and that Pat will not sleep on the long road trip (she was sleeping in the back seat of Marion's car the night we went to Austin). Pat was a good sport (thanks!). I don't mind talking to Peanut, my dog, but a one-way conversation can get dull.

The day before Pat left for Malaysia, we had lunch at the Wagon Master Steakhouse. We filled up on barbecued ribs, mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. We wished we could have relaxed after that but we had something important to do - pack Pat's bags. We had less than 12 hours before leaving the airport.

Inside Wagon Master Steakhouse

Outside Wagon Master Steakhouse

It was a thrill to have Pat with me, my first Malaysian visitor in the States. A holiday to remember, for sure. I told her that the next time she returns to visit me, I may have to change our mode of transportation (horses, dear?). She was surprised to see how much we pay for gas (or petrol in other parts of the world). Well Pat, if you think what we paid was a lot, this is how I feel with this week's prices ....