PebHmong Discussion Forum

Creative Corner => Online Journal => Topic started by: Dok_Champa on December 23, 2016, 03:26:06 PM

Title: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 23, 2016, 03:26:06 PM
I'm starting a new journal entry and I was going to title "A New Beginning:  A New Chapter" but I think Life's Milestone is probably more appropriate.  I'm not starting anything new and yet it feels like I am entering a new chapter in my life. 

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 24, 2016, 11:20:20 AM
Christmas

Christmas is one of my favorite holidays.  No matter where I am in the world, the beacon of Christmas would bring me to where I need to be, with the people that matters most in my life.  That's how it is with me.  On Christmas I'm found, always.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 27, 2016, 08:37:49 AM
A Family Dinner

When my children were young, it wasn't that hard to have family dinner.  Their schedules were predictable.  As they grew, my oldest son flew the bird nest to his own, my oldest girl left home for schooling, and the others had school and work, activities, or just "not hungry."

On Christmas Day and the day after, we spent time cooking and baking: cookies, bread, brownies, shrimp, crawl fish, fish tom yum, turkey, mash potatoes, papaya, and other family favorites.  Afterward, we gather round to play board/card games- Smashed Up, Monopoly, 5 Seconds Rule, Fibber, Evolution, etc..

Today I'll be on the road taking my girl back to college and visiting my parents.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 29, 2016, 10:54:04 AM
A MN Visit

MN holds fond memories for me and loved ones are here.  Being in this place is sort of bittersweet.  I cherished each place I visit and people I'm with because it'll be awhile before I'm here once more.  Today is pretty cold, cloudy, and light snow.  Planing to have breakfast with my sweet girl and then off I go.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 02, 2017, 09:06:40 AM
A Walk with Betsy

Betsy is my dog and I’ve gotten her since she was a puppy.  Now she’s 28 years old in dog years.  2017 started beautifully:  A bright sunny day, a perfect day for strolling in my favorite place –by the lake.  As soon as we got there, we walked to the pier.  Love the crisp air washing over my face, seagulls flying overhead, on one side are rolling waves, on the other clear frozen water you can see down to the rocks.  I peeked to see if I chance upon any fish swimming but they must have gone to deeper water where it’s warmer.  Betsy and I stopped by a cement railing, my eyes closed, and my ears tune into the sound of the rolling waves-washing back and forth.  The ocean waves are the best but this will do for now.  Betsy and I were not the only ones taking advantage of the beautiful weather:  A small group of Chinese men on bicycle passing by, an elderly couple strolling side by side, two men having a lively conversation walked passed, a couple taking pictures, and further down the pier, a solitary man glanced out into the blue water to the endless horizon beyond.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 03, 2017, 03:02:20 PM
A Life Envision

I'd like to do more traveling in my later years and dedicate more of my time and energy in giving back, serving others, etc..  If I'm not traveling or volunteering, I'll be happy coup up at home with a cup of coffee or tea, taking a stroll-enjoying the beauty of nature, working my garden, simple things , etc.. .  I'd stay away from partying, drinking, oh... the drinking... Now I can tolerate but I don't think I have the patience later on. 

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 04, 2017, 08:58:37 AM
Flip Phone

I confess, I still  have one of those flip phones.  It has one of those tiny little camera ahhhaah.. and texting..click click "a", click click "b", click click click "e" so forth hahaahahhaha.. .but it's functional and that's what matters most to me. 

Even my youngest daughter has a better phone than I (one of those Iphone) because she begged her father for one and he gave in to her but not me.  I still think young girls/people don't need such fancy phone, for what? Do they really need to skype? Twitter? Go on the internet? Get into their facebook? Instagram? I'd rather see them pick up a book, go outside (if the weather is nice), get a job, volunteer, etc...


Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 09, 2017, 12:24:28 PM
Moderation is Key

This may sound harsh but the hmong community is having an alcohol consumption epidemic.  It’s an epidemic – like a disease – brought on by peer/social pressure.  I’m not saying don’t drink –we’re all adult but moderation is key.  Too much of anything is no good and that includes excessive drinking.  I hope it’s just a phase and we don't become a community of alcoholic. 

Maybe I'm not a drinker and I don't really understand the hype of drinking.  If I don't want to drink, I don't have to make up an excuse - just tell the truth:  "I'm sorry, I don't drink but thank you."  Yes, sometimes you seem like the "abnormal" one but at the end of the day, what does social drinking really accomplished other than an excruciating headaches, swollen eyes, looking like an incoherent fool, etc..


Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 12, 2017, 05:17:56 PM
Feeling Puzzled

So today during my lunch hour, I was catching up on a chinese Drama, The General and I
https://www.dramafever.com/drama/4986/12/general-and-i-/ (https://www.dramafever.com/drama/4986/12/general-and-i-/)

I find myself a little drawn to the character - When he said, "hurry so I don't find myself waiting" and grabbed to kiss her one last time -  My heart melt a little like I was on a tiny/little adrenaline high (but in this case, for the heart.)  Like my heart felt a little warm and fuzzy...a little drunk like it had a little too much too drink..

And later, I wonder..is this the reason why I'm drawn to love Drama and if yes, why do I do that?  I know it was just a fantasy- make believe world.  I've known that all along...

Could I be in love with the idea of love? Or am I just being human? 

In life, I noticed the smallest thing about couples - and when a man drapes his arm over his lady's shoulder - it brings a smile to my lips..
When he holds the door for her - it made me think
When he holds her hands in public - it made me paused..

Why do I think like that?  Am I a hopeless romantic? I don't think so - I thought I'm reasonable to not be fool with things like that ahhahaa..

I still haven't found the answer.  I think love has been polluted by enterprise (corporation) which are very good at digging into our deepest desires and dangles them in front of our face in these so called "dramas (or whatever weakness  it is for you)" and make our heart flutters a little bit... so we come again and again...but at the end of day - we leave empty handed except with the foolish fantasy fed to us hahahaha...

Yet..I'm going to continue watching that darn Dramas........ ....*roll eyes*******

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 13, 2017, 12:25:58 PM
I Was Just Thinking

Do you regret exposing your vulnerabilitie s online?  Sometimes I'm amazed at the things coming out of my lips.  I don't know other people's reason for doing what they do, saying the things they said.. For me, being real is important.  So I suppose, in some ways, I do say the darnest things at times.

But I'm not going to admit in real life unless there's concrete proof ;D ;D ;D  In that sense, I'm a coward :D :D :D A big coward...Yes.  But it's not important..

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 17, 2017, 04:33:45 PM
Hmmmmm

The General and I EP. 20

"If I never see your highness again in this lifetime, I would be no more than a living corpse even if I stay alive."

Powerful stuff here.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 19, 2017, 04:04:20 PM
Love- Lessons from the TV Dramas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcaghjY6RIc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcaghjY6RIc)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGAKzUAGF9Q&spfreload=5 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGAKzUAGF9Q&spfreload=5)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 20, 2017, 12:19:42 PM
Tomorrow

Tomorrow I’ll be in a place where they’ll be eating and drinking, drinking and eating.   I don’t mind the eating but it’s the excessive drinking I don’t understand.  Have yet to understand.  Convince me to understand.  I already know how the night will end so my heart is already heavy, not fill with anticipation and or excitement. 

I think if people are courageous to stick to their principles, they would not feel the pressure to drink.  A simple philosophy yet hard to do.  People respond to pressure differently while others are firm to who they are, I think.  Or Am I missing something..? 

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 23, 2017, 08:26:39 AM
He Came Home With Blond Hair

My daughter came up to me and show his picture - sure enough he's blond, more reddish/pinkish blond.  I had to double glance and there -staring right back at me is my oldest son.  She ask, "Do you like it?  What do you think?" and I replied, "Oh my goodniiiiiieee eeeee.." and she laughed excitedly and continued, "He came home and yep he was blond.  You should see it.  He'll be back." 

We left to go somewhere and when we returned, there he is, "Mom, do you like it?"  and I said, "wow, looks different.  You look Korean, Japanese, and really bring out your tan."  We laughed and he went on to  explain the process of how he got it done.  He said, "Mom, a few days from now it'll be a little more blond." I listened.

He continues, "Mom, I'm going on vacation with my friends." and from there he proceeded to tell me about his Mexico trip and his blond hair was forgotten. 

Last night he (my blond son) asked me to take him to his friend's house since they're leaving early to catch their flight in the morning.  We talked  and I asked him, "Was I a good mom/were we good parents to you?"  He said, "Mom, you and dad did a great job raising  us.  It's amazing how the little things we learn when we were little shape us to who we are today.  For example, I worked hard not because I want to be rich, make money but I want to do something with my life, accomplish something." and we talk more about life, family, etc..  I pray with him for a safe trip and left.

Driving back, I think of all my children- how each is progressing in their life and smile. 

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 27, 2017, 02:19:15 PM
Sincerity

A poem I came across..

Why is the word yes so brief?
It should be
the longest,
the hardest,
so that you could not decide in an instant to say it,
so that upon reflection you could stop
in the middle of saying it.


This poem is a reflection of Sincerity and you can apply this concept to other things in life.  I admit, I don't make decision lightly and that becomes both my weakness and strength.  It doesn't mean my decisions are always on target/right - just means they are sincere and when you are "sincere" about something, you either received the deepest joy or suffered the deepest cut.



Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 06, 2017, 09:05:05 AM
Tossing and Turning

Sleeping inside a car on a winter’s night was not comfortable.  Earlier, I called and he sounded like he had a little too much to drink so I told him to stay put.  When I got there, he was knocked out and moving him would be difficult.  Grabbed his heavy coat and covered him up as best as I could.

What was I to do?  I suppose if you can’t beat him, join him.  Slowly, I walked to the passenger side, slide in, use my coat as blanket and scarf as pillow, slide the seat half way down and attempted to get some “ZZZ.”  30 minutes later, there I was, tossing and turning (and a little cold).  The best position to keep warm is fetus –head slightly bend and both leg curl up but sleep didn’t come. 3 ½ hours later, he seemed more alert but not enough to drive.  He mumbled I should go on home and he’ll come around later.  I didn’t argue – and he got home at the crack of dawn.

What did I learn? – Not a fan of excessive drinking-probably never will – And leave an emergency sleeping kit (pillow & blanket) in the trunk.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 15, 2017, 12:54:08 PM
Love Overcomes All

I finished watching The General and I – what a great love story- one of those “Love Conquers All.”  Watching a great drama is like reading a good book – hard to put down.  This was like that for me. The dialogues & chemistry of the lead actors/actress (like good writings) melts the heart, brings joy, sadness, and emotions in between. It's amazing to see a guy fall for a girl and made a vow to love her, only her in life and kept it, is not afraid to show his love, fight for her against all odds, and even died for her if needed...this is such a guy.  Yeah, only exist in fantasy land but -it's nice to see that play out in the computer/tv screen.  You've got my vote Chue Be Jie:)

Queen Seodok was another good one.  Even now, I still remember the love story of Bidam and Queen Seondok – Poor Bidam – I still recalled him dying with tears of blood pouring out of his eyes –looking straight as his love- Queen Seondok – trying to reach her.  Bidam, you've got my vote too. 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 20, 2017, 04:22:08 PM
A Drive Along The Mississippi River

Starting in MN going southeast – along the way saw some quiet communities and beautiful sceneries.  My favorite little town, Lake City – a tiny little town with the most beautiful view of the Mississippi River w/ tall mountain peaks on the other side, gorgeous.  It has sidewalks along the edge of the Mississippi River for taking evening strolls or walks and benches where you could sit and enjoy the spectacular view. 

The most prosperous little town along the Mississippi River must be Red Wing – maybe the nearby Casino may have been a factor – but that’s a thriving little town.   Further down the Mississippi River in Iowa is the Yellow River – tus dej yuav tsum pom siab thiaj nqig –  and next to it is the Effigy Mounds National Monument.  I could spend a day here - hiking along the scenic nature trails.  Was press for time so took a mini stroll along the scenic path of the Effigy Mounds and pom dej dag siab nqig lawm ces went across to the other side and home :)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 24, 2017, 03:51:42 PM
Time

Thaum kuv tseem hluas, sijhawm muaj ntau xav tias yuav tsis txawj tag.  Thaum laus zoo li sijhawm tsis txaus nws dhau mus zuj zus ceem tsis tau rov qab. I'm happy in this world you and I are still in it and that in itself is a beautiful thing. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXCGeMtdVDE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXCGeMtdVDE)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 02, 2017, 08:00:53 PM
Sunny California For Him

11pm last night I was packing his suitcase and today he's already texting a photo of sunny California.  Unfortunately he wasn't there for pleasure but rather business - funeral business to be exact.   Life and loss...loss and life and the cycle repeats. Life is short & fleeting - make the most it.

Aside from that, I've been busy coordinating for a future event and seeking donation/sponsorships.  It's a win - win for all- you give something and got something in return.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 05, 2017, 07:37:35 PM
Another MN Trip

This time I visited Stone Bridge, that bridge over the Mississippi River.  It's a nice little walk in that little park nearby and you can see some old ruins of some old stuff long ago:)  I like the little board walk.. but what I like best is standing up on that bridge, in the middle, and looking at the bubbling water below.  It was a chilly day but during the Summer month, it must be a wonderful little walk from one end of the bridge to the other.  I wanted to visit that waterfall, what is it call?  Oh yes, Minha someting ahhaah... but it was a cold day so I changed my plan.  Instead we went to that mall - that big mall and if I was the local, I don't think I'll shop there much but a great place for exercise.  I love the hanging lights chandeliers... .

Truang Nam Bakery - so I was hoping to see lots of delicious Asian bake goods but no only a few croissants and that famous Banh Mi sandwiches. 




Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 10, 2017, 03:05:34 PM
"Even if the roads we travel run parallel without ever meeting together I am saying I will go with you like that side by side, all my life."

-Saimdang, Light's Diary (ep. 12)



Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 20, 2017, 10:50:40 AM
PH

Even though PH is an online community, it's still a community nevertheless.  Over the years we've shared our thoughts (viewpoints, ideas), life's journey, family, children, political views, trials & tribulations, hobbies,  things that made us happy, sad, mad, go crazy, ticks, fall in love, out of love, what we wear, listened to, our deepest thoughts, etc..

and each of us probably has found a tiny bit of "heaven" or "hell" on here.  Me - an ocean to toss messages in a bottles. 

They say it's the people that makes a community - I must agree.  And like all community -People grow old, people grow sick, people leave, people come.  I know one day I may leave (as in permanently)...and you will too.  In sickness, in health, in joy, in tears – life keeps going even when we stopped.

So make the most of your life with the time you’re given.  Be kind to others.  Give generously to charitable causes, have courage to love and be loved in return, and enjoy every moments you have w/ loved ones.

Maybe I'm getting old and gone to too many funerals - they really remind/ put life into perspectives quickly (and venting on a Monday morning).
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 03, 2017, 12:56:59 PM
Drinking Is A Choice

So I was at a family gathering and they were drinking.  They know I don't drink but we were talking about drinking and I said it's a choice.  To prove my point, I down liquors really well that night.  Later, I had a moment of "giggling and crying at the same time."  So, I also found out what sort of drunk I could be hehehe..

But anyway, I don't care to repeat again.. Point made, done.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 06, 2017, 10:32:40 AM
Saimdang

I'm watching this Kdrama and it's about another kind of love - a love that exist even though people are apart, living separate lives.  In their own way, they learn to love, appreciate each other without physically being with one another.   A love that's pure - not those lustful type of love - but a pure love that begins pure and remain pure through life. 

Also, Saimdang is a real historical figure in the Korean culture/life - a genius artist and educator ahead of her time.  Her artworks are outstanding..  Her artwork are so realistic, alive..like you could almost touch it (that's how I see it.)

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/16C-Korea-Artist-Shin-Saimdang-Painting-Eggplant-Insects-Replica-on-Canvas-/272234896631 (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/16C-Korea-Artist-Shin-Saimdang-Painting-Eggplant-Insects-Replica-on-Canvas-/272234896631)



Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 20, 2017, 09:36:11 AM
The magnolia are starting to bloom, trees, and plants are awaken from their long winter sleep.  Love it this time of the year minus the allergy that comes with it.  Too busy but love to plant flowers around the yard.  I have some Canna bulbs from last year, some new ones this year, Irises, Daffodils, etc.  My Tulips, Hostas, and Coral Bells are starting to come out...

It's wonderful to be able to sit back/ enjoy my back yard in the Summer under a big umbrella with a cool drinks in  hand.  We've camp out in the back too hehehhe...  We have a family of Deer that lives in the woods behind the house and sometimes a pack of wolves came through - you could hear the howling like hyenas..

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 24, 2017, 11:32:24 AM
Very busy this week.  Friday:  People coming over for dinner.  Expecting 100+.  Saturday:  The big day.  Evening:  The big party.  Going a little crazy at the moment but will be fine.  Deep breathe..inhal e, exhale....
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 28, 2017, 09:49:19 AM
Today is the day of the big days to come hahhaha... and I'm feeling a little bit jittery. 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 01, 2017, 10:53:22 AM
I'm feeling great today.  It was a lot of work planning /coordinating but it's done.  I don't ever have to think about it again until the  next ones come again (sighs).  But i'm always a busy person anyway.

I have a funeral coming up and some ladies and I are prepping up food/appetizer for that.  Tomorrow, we'll be making those khaub piaj noodles, next evening, sticky rice bars, next evening something else.. and Friday, funeral day, I'll be cooking in the kitchen.  Yes, this entire weekend, I can be found in the kitchen..

Arrg...and next week, I'll be having more aches and pain..   There's a sick grandma in the hospital right now and it looks like she could go any day as well.  I hope she gets well/better.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 03, 2017, 10:16:40 AM
I need a vacation -

I just want to drop everything and go to some place warm and tropical for a few days.  I don't want to think about work, responsibiliti es... I just want to relax by a warm beach or some place  exotic.  It's been a while since i've taken a vacation.  I've worked hard almost all my life and there's so much to do and see.  I haven't done those things yet and time is passing by.  Do you feel like that sometimes? 

Well, some people may say, what's stopping me?  Hmmm, it's easier said than done.  Maybe I should play the lottery - today's Wednesday right?  Drawing's tonight?  I haven't play those in a looooooooooooo oooooooong time too, maybe twice in my life so far.  Once when the jackpot was over 1/2 a millions and the second was similar jackpot. 

But, I count my blessings.  It's beautiful to be alive and to wake up to a beautiful sunrise and sunset. 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 05, 2017, 08:49:40 PM
The first day of Funeral and I was up at 7am cooking all day.  My feet and body aches.  The worst thing I did today was boiling cow skin (the part with the fur) until tender in order to remove the fur.  Then, I meticulously peel the fur with my finger tip and if that doesn't work, use the blade of a small knife to scrap the fur off and you are left with that gelatin skin covering.

I left after dinner was served..cookin g all day I lost my appetite.

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 07, 2017, 09:49:56 PM
French History

Emmanuel Macron won the presidency - he reminds me of Obama and Le Pen, she was the extreme opponent to the right.  She's anti -immigrant, seeks to break free from European Union, etc... reminds me of someone in the White House right now.

Done w/ busy weekend.  Didn't get to bed till 4am and up at 6am so I was feeling a little like a zombie all day. 

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 09, 2017, 09:36:41 AM
I just celebrated my birthday recently and oh my goodness....I'm old.  I'm not 50 yet but getting there.  I remember when I was young, I look at people in their 40's or 50's and I thought that was old..and now that i'm here, IT"S STILL OLD :D :D :D

But I'm ok with that.  Growing old is part of life and as long as a person is comfortable in his/her own skin, that's important.  What is growing old looks like?  The physical appearance changes (for better or worse) but the inner beauty/inner self is ageless and the years only enhance it.  AND yes, physical ailments are surfacing.

But the beauty of growing old is that all the people important to me are growing old with me, along with me - we're growing old together and that makes the journey of growing old beautiful.

I wouldn't want to be young while they are growing old without me- that would be sadder. 


 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 18, 2017, 09:18:32 AM
Finally the garden is done - planted the pepper seedlings, chicken herbs, lemon grass, lemon grass plant,  and a few perennials around the house.  Afterward, the children wanted bbq and so we took out the grill and bbq a little bit. 
Later in the evening when all is quiet, I'm sitting in a chair w/ drink in hand just enjoying the evening breeze and looking up at the darken sky - a storm is brewing.  The wind really picked up -the branches were swaying left and right but I was in no rush to get inside.  Soon, Betsy, the family dog, came to join me but she was a little nervous w/ the strong wind so I let her inside.  There I am sitting in the dusk enjoying the beauty of my surroundings and the aroma of the pom pom flowers fills the night air.  I close my eyes…and count my blessings.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 01, 2017, 09:24:06 AM
A Twin

A lady came up to me and said, "oh you look just like so and so... Every time I see you, I always mistake you for so and so.."  I offer, "do you want to take a picture of her twin and show it to her?"  She didn't have a camera and of course, my flip phone was...... just a flip phone ;D ;D ;D


Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 02, 2017, 01:43:02 PM
Acupuncture

So today I went and got my first ever acupuncture.   The acupuncturist said my meridian points should flow better.  Ok. 

It's been an hour since I got the procedure done and I do feel more relax (body feels lighter).  I'm going to wait and see.....
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 16, 2017, 11:10:02 AM
I'm blessed to be living by a beautiful beach.  One of my favorite past time is an evening stroll along it's shore and there's a pier that goes right into the water - I enjoy strolling along that too.  In the evening, watching the sunset and the evening breeze brushing my hair - smelling the clean air - that's a perfect evening right there. 

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 20, 2017, 09:46:48 AM
It was late at night that I was driving in this small road in this small town (never been there before) ... Got lost and I was trying to get back to the main road.  There was no street light along the road and the only light source was the beam from my car.  Suddenly, the light beam revealed an animal ahead - was it a deer? A dog?  I could tell the animal was rooted to the spot, traumatized to see the beaming car light and I equally traumatized to see it in front of me.  There's no way I could avoid hitting it and possibly saving this life.  In a split second, we came in contact and I knew a life has been lost.  Should I stop  and check what I hit on this dark and forsaken road?  No, I left because I knew there was nothing I could have done.  I left with a heavy heart.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on July 01, 2017, 11:05:06 AM
Today is a beautiful day in my neck of the wood and there's a big tournament in MN this weekend.  Some people I know are there right now along w/ hmong from other parts of the world and US.  Me - I'm home.  I've been gone so much that I prefer to enjoy my quiet weekend home w/ my children.  We'll be doing yard work and later whatever they want to do.  This weekend is all about them.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on July 13, 2017, 12:47:05 PM
Right now I'm in my office working on some paper work and I'll be doing that for the next few days.  I have these playing in the background https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmdAJLBYZYQ&index=6&list=RDGVdsegjCPVY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmdAJLBYZYQ&index=6&list=RDGVdsegjCPVY)  and sometimes a song that catches my attention came on, I'll stop what i'm doing and listened.  I'm thinking, being human, we all can related to those lyrics in some ways.. and I couldn't help by think that a man loves as much as a woman, as vulnerable as her... and that all of us are vulnerable when it comes to love.

Well, I'm an old lady but young at heart hahahhaha..... so yes, I still listen to these sappy love songs.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 07, 2017, 02:59:02 PM
Unexpected life circumstances

My mother in law had a stroke and is still recovering at the hospital.  Watching her going through so many tests, having breathing/feeding tubes going into her, and suffering emotional and physical pain is hard to watch.  I feel hopeless because I can't do much.  At the same time, it's an eye opener to getting old.  I hope I'm one of those blessed soul that passes away quietly w/ little suffering.  My great great grandmother passed away like that:  She was eating breakfast and suddenly her swallowing slow down, she became tired, and within an hour she passed. 

These days the older generations are leaving one by one.  I've attended too many of those funerals this year and soon I'll be heading to Cali for another one.  I don't like to impose on people when I go to funerals out of state so I got everything taken care of.  I'll be going alone (just me myself and I).
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 11, 2017, 10:58:47 PM
I've arrived and the weather is pretty hot but not humid like where I'm from.  I still have my flip phone so I have no access to GPS and had to rely on myself to getting around.  This city is pretty huge and the funeral is in the heart of town while I'm staying on the outskirts of town.  Poor planning on my part - lesson learn.  I love the tall palm trees, banana plants (no banana) and flowering shrubs and they reminded me of Laos and Thailand.  The houses here are one level, ranch style, and I see dry patches of grass every where.  However, a vibrant diverse town.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 13, 2017, 11:16:56 PM
Tomorrow is the funeral day and so far I've survived driving through the maze of this city.  I've no idea how big this town is and the high ways and by ways can be pretty busy w/ so many constructions.  I took a few minutes to explore today and stopped by "Little Saigon" to taste the pho in this city.  I still prefer the one in my town.  A reminder to not take them for granted:)  Sometimes you think other places have better things but little did you know the best things are right in front of you.  Well, I came across a few of my childhood friends and some of us have gray hairs, some gain weight, some more beautiful than ever.  I'm just blessed to have the opportunity to see them again.  Tomorrow I'm leaving this place and I don't know when I'll set foot here again.  I'm going to savor the air, sights, sound, and the people and if I have the opportunity to stop again, I'll make new experiences.  I can't wait to go home.  This  hotel is on the outskirts of town hehhehe...and right now it's pretty quiet.  If I didn't have anyone waiting at  home..... it can be such a lonely place for sure.  I know I won't last more than a week here before I go insane heheheh....
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 23, 2017, 02:00:43 PM
I  hope I’m not over doing it

My son made it to varsity but he needs his sport clearance to play.  A while ago, he ask me to get it for him but I’ve forgotten about it.  The night before practice, he asked me about it and of course his mom didn’t get it done.  He was disappointed and I felt guilty.  The next day,I called and faxed the form over to his doctor to complete.  The office said it usually takes 5 to 7 days. 

Because he didn’t have the sports clearance, my son had to sit out on a 3 hour practice and I felt sick to my stomache w/ guilt.  The next day, I stopped by the dr’s office to hand delivered another copy for her to complete and I was hoping to get it by the end of the day.  Sure enough just when I had almost lose hope, it came through.  I felt relief knowing my son will not have to sit out on another practice… and my stomache returned to normal.

So what did I do?  I send thank you flowers to the doctor.  Now, today my head is a little more clear…..I was thinking... I hope I didn't over do it..  Hmmm, I could have just send her a “thank you” card but flowers…. Well, it’s done. Truth be told, I am grateful the doctor helped me to be a good mother.  Lesson learned. 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 06, 2017, 09:21:18 AM
Florida


Many years ago, I walked on your sand and wonders how long before we meet again.  Once more, your sand flows through my toes and your salty water washed away the heat of the day.  Your pier standing proud in the distance.  It’s so good to be back though only briefly.  When I left, I gave a last glance and hope that we’ll meet again, someday.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 15, 2017, 03:34:56 PM
River Walk

I’m fortunate to be working near a River walk-a winding path along the edge of a river on both side for a few miles.    Every now and then I’d be having my lunch here, especially on a beautiful day.  Today was no exception -there I was sitting by the River walk w/ a delicious Banh Mi and observing people rowing canoes on the river.  Every now and then a river cruise happen and bridges would be lifted for the cruise boat to pass.  That was a headache for pedestrians and cars but I’m sure people inside the boat got a nice view of everyone stopping in traffic. 

It’s beautiful here – large hanging baskets up on lamp posts and planters on the ground,  vine arches between the walk way, and in some location, comfortable seating on the edge of the river for socializing, an open theatre, tables and chairs under huge umbrella, restaurants, and huge tall sky scrapper/buildings..

I’ve never visited in the evening but I can imagine a romantic evening w/ the lamp post lights as lanterns and music flowing in the wind, the crisp evening air, a lovely companion, laughter, food and wine.  One shouldn’t be here alone at night – it’ll be too lonely I imagine.  The night belongs to couples and everyone can come during the day.

Maybe some see this place as nothing more than a dirty, polluted river. 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 18, 2017, 11:45:06 AM
Doing the Right Thing/ Txoj Kev Ua Zoo/A Good Person

I’m venting.  I can walk away and treat her how she treated me because I've no relation to her through blood.  When her health is at her most critical, she needed me.  She came to live with me because she knew I could take care of her but her heart and mind wasn’t with me.  Her body is there but her heart is somewhere else. When she is well, her love and care goes to her blood.   Now she is at her most critical, half of her body immobilized – needs total care, should my love and care go to her?

My hurt says treat her as how she treated me.  But my heart and soul wouldn’t let me.  It says, if you can only do good when others are good to you, are you really a good person?  It says if you can only do the right thing when it benefits you the most, are you actually doing the right thing?

Yes, sometimes doing the right thing, being a good person, txoj kev zoo, is hard because sometimes the only thank-you you get is a clear conscience- Yours.

God, give me the strength to love others as you have love me.  You lay down your life for me when I’m most underserving.  Rid me of my bitterness so I can do what is right and love others as you've loved me.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 26, 2017, 02:16:48 PM
Kuv Hlub Koj Tsis Paub Tagkis

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMjUyo5GerM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMjUyo5GerM)

Thov Txhob Nug

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QHlNxHb0y8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QHlNxHb0y8)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on October 12, 2017, 09:29:26 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=8&v=7D5K9RmwLBg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=8&v=7D5K9RmwLBg)

FYI, I don't speak Thai but looks like this song is kho kho siab and the music video is well made: Simple and effective. Want to jump into the screen and look at the stars w/ him hehehehhehehe. ......

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iVRen1XYX14 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iVRen1XYX14)

And this one, I just want to pass a handkerchief along, seem like a sad and depressing song.

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on October 17, 2017, 09:01:46 AM
Seeing people drink Soju in Kdrama reminds me of my first introduction to Korean Soju.

My husband and I attended a hmong function and the host gave me a carton of Korean Soju (clear alcoholic drink in glass bottle) to toast with the ladies.  Of course, I thought they were water.  I said to the ladies, "Great, they're just water so let's each take a bottle."  Well, my first sipped confirm it wasn't water n the toast was pretty done at that point. 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on November 17, 2017, 01:48:17 PM
The other day I went shopping at an Asian store and I did not have cash w/ me nor a credit card but brought along my checkbook.  At the check out,  the cashier said, "sorry, we don't take checks anymore."  I was surprised.  It's been awhile since I went to that store and had no when the "new" policy took effect.  I left and went to a second and third Asian store, the same thing. 

It dawned on me, reality starts to set in a little bit - that personal check, the use of checks, are beginning to go extinct like the house phone, letter writings, etc.. and replace with credit cards/ debit cards, etc..



Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on November 27, 2017, 09:41:24 AM
I'm feeling impatient theses days and I get irritated by little things I normally don't in the past.  I'm tired of living the busy life - one weekend go to an event in this town, another weekend go to an event in that town, and the cycle repeats.  On the weekend, my children don't even ask where i'm heading anymore nor waits for me.  They know the routine well.  Why do I do this?  To fulfill his dreams and they coming true one by one.  He's made a name for himself - everywhere we go, people know him. 

That's the thing about life in this country - if you invest your energy in accumulating wealth - you'd get that.  If you invest your time in being a bum - you'll get that.  What ever you wish, put your heart and soul into - you'd get that.    But to fulfill his dream, lots of sacrifice were made.

Also, this journey includes lots of drinking.  I see the endless clicking of alcohol toasting where many times he'd passed out from excessive consumption.  He's not alone.  It's like alcohol and drinking is the "new" normal.  It's not and has never been.  Once we become too comfortable, we lose ourselves, forget right from wrong.  We turn wrong thing into right and right thing into wrong thing, something like that.  Maybe i'm the abnormal ones....

I savor the quiet moments - those moments in front of the TV, working around the house, surrounded by family and children, doing things together, doing nothing, being alone, walking my dog, etc.. These moments are rare and few these days. 




Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on November 29, 2017, 09:42:19 AM
Lesson From KDrama

Greed is a common theme in Kdrama and a mirror of life - greed of love, greed of $, greed of power, etc..  Usually it's the Villian w/ these greeds and he/she will take extreme measures to achieve it, don't care about stepping on others or feelings of others.  It never go according to plan at the end of the drama - opposite happens - lose everything. 

Lesson:  Whatever you want, hope for -love, power, $$ - it has to come to you willingly to be yours and can't be force or bought.  How?  power & $$ - work hard w/your own effort and ability to achieve it.  Love - how?  Have the courage to look for it and when you find it, made it known and if it's yours, it'll come.  If not, accept and move on - Easier said than done yes but try because that's the only way it'll be yours...has to come willingly.  You know, they have feet too....has to walk to you to stay.

I wonder, many years down the road will I still think this way? So far I haven't changed my mind yet.







Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 01, 2017, 10:53:11 AM
I love this song, "Lwm Tiam" from Lis Toj.  I don't believe there's a lwm tiam but nice lyrics. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrDZDxCA_Ng (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrDZDxCA_Ng)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 15, 2017, 02:16:34 PM
Slow day at work and this guy is keeping me company and yet I don't know his name hahahahha...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yqr8LTHqhhs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yqr8LTHqhhs)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 22, 2017, 08:43:43 AM
Today in this PH desert, Christmas is on my mind.  This is what Christmas means to me:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ryv41dMqS24 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ryv41dMqS24)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_sEP5_7DMu0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_sEP5_7DMu0)

While we are gift giving to one another (or not), all of us have received the greatest gift of all - life and love, more precious than silver and gold. 

Sometimes we think we don't worth much, useless, undeserving but to the one who loves us, we are everything. 

Merry Christmas



Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: lost_forever on December 27, 2017, 12:00:18 PM
I love this song, "Lwm Tiam" from Lis Toj.  I don't believe there's a lwm tiam but nice lyrics. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrDZDxCA_Ng (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrDZDxCA_Ng)

One of my favorite songs! I don’t believe in lwm tiam too. If you want to be with someone do it now when you have the chance. I also love Lilly “txhob tos lwm tiam”.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 08, 2018, 02:58:36 PM
Lost, I love Lilly's too. 

I came across this scribbles on my note pad.  Not sure where I found them but I must have like them to scribble them down.

If there is something to desire,
there will be something to regret.
If there is something to regret,
there will be something to recall.
If there is something to recall,
there was nothing to regret.
If there was nothing to regret,
there was nothing to desire.


Why is the word yes so brief?
It should be
the longest,
the hardest,
so that you could not decide in an instant to say it,
so that upon reflection you could stop
in the middle of saying it




Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 18, 2018, 08:42:40 AM
A Close Call

There I was entering onto the highway and merging onto the slow right lane.  The road condition wasn't that bad.   The cars are picking up speed and I was going about 45 miles per hour.  I noticed the cars in front of me pressed on their brakes and some even swerved a little onto the right shoulder.   My reaction - I  must have pressed my brakes a little hard because suddenly my car did a 180 turn landing onto the right shoulder facing the opposite direction I was heading.   It was that or I could very well slammed onto the bumper of the car in front.  Cars on the slow right lane stopped so I could get out of the shoulder.  That was a close call.

I'm still a little shaken but I thank God for keeping things under control.  In a blink of an eye, it could have been a horrible accident.  I was very fortunate indeed.  Be careful.  Be careful.  Be careful.







Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 29, 2018, 10:03:48 AM
Lwm Qaib Tiam 21

I had a minor crisis this past weekend:  My son called he's bringing a girl home to marry.  My husband was knocked out from drinking and couldn't get any help from him.  I called an uncle and he said to do the Lwm Qaib thing when they got to the house (prior to entering) and he stressed it must be done to avoid complications w/ the bride's family later on.  He instructed I do it w/ a chicken or 3 incense sticks (xyab).  That's all the insructions.

What is a clueless person to do?  I went over to my computer and quickly got a youtube tutorial how to do it. Wrote down what to say as instructed from the video...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-xj3llpJMg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-xj3llpJMg)

There I was by the door w/ the written instruction and when they arrived, I opened the door... took out my 3 incense sticks and lwm to the right - and read from my paper.

Oh hnub no zoo hnub...  Hnub no zoo nyog
Kuv tus tub yuav tau nyab los txoj vaj txog tsev lawm

Hnub no kuv yuav los lwm nawb    Kuv lwm nws    Kuv tsis lwm nws
plig tub plig tub kom nyob luag ntxub
Plig ki plig ki kom nyob luag ntxi

Tsis lwm nws    plig niam plig txiv   Plij txij plig nkawm

etc....

I think I made history lwm qaib this way heheehhehehehe ehhehe...... Or should we say Lwm Qaib Taim 21 ahahhahahaahha hahhahhhaahahh ah.... I still have a giggles when I think about it.  But thank goodness I survived this ordeal.

Yes, I am officially a mother in law.

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: lost_forever on January 30, 2018, 02:24:17 PM
Congratulation s Dok! Wow you nailed it! Great job.

I want to see pictures!
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 01, 2018, 11:17:38 AM
So kuv tus cuag (oh boy have to get use to calling that ahhaahaha...), anyway, kuv tus cuag, wants the hmong wedding ASAP.  They wanted this weekend but we're booked w/ emergency crisis so we pushed to three weeks from now.  I was hoping they could wait until Spring or Summer but oh my goodness so soon.  Oh well....

This is my first getting married and I've been educating myself for the big day.  The wedding starts at my house - mej koob, pij laj (best man), groom, bride, niam txais ntsuab and for the longest we kept saying "Niam Tais Ntsuab" but it's actually "Niam Txais Ntsuab."    There's going to be a meal before they're off to the bride's family.

I've never really knew what goes inside lub kawm - now I know:
2 chickens, ib pob mov, salt, oil, knife, 2 spoon (real)

Am I missing anything?

Thank you Lost_forever.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 18, 2018, 02:52:20 PM
My son's Hmong Wedding

 I have body aches and sore feet but it is done.  We had two big feast - back to back.  I work better when i'm prepared so I pretty much gave a lot of thought on what needed to be done and when the big day comes, every thing flows nicely.  Feeling relief today.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: lost_forever on February 20, 2018, 07:16:54 AM
are you excited to be a mother in law? How old is your son? Hmong weddings cost so much, not as as an American wedding but so much preparations. Post up pictures when you can.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 20, 2018, 12:53:31 PM
are you excited to be a mother in law? How old is your son? Hmong weddings cost so much, not as as an American wedding but so much preparations. Post up pictures when you can.
I'm not ready to be a mother in law yet but it's here so I'll learn as I go.  However, I can relate to my nyab and all the fears that come with the new role because I was once in her shoes.  I'll do my best to ease her fear.  I gain a daughter, that's how I see it.  My son is 23 and yes so much preparation but it's done and I AM FEELING RELIEF!  Thank you for asking.   
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 01, 2018, 03:29:48 PM
Oh The Wonder of Facebook

I have a funny story to tell ahhaha... so recently a niece in Laos was calling me on Facebook and I realized I had to installed that feature to chat live with her.  So I did.  After that, every now and then I'll hear "buzzing" from my phone.  At first I thought I was getting text messages.  I checked and found out It wasn't text messages but rather live chat messages from Facebook.   Well, learn something new today. 


Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 19, 2018, 01:04:28 PM
Think Come Think Go On Fav. Singer

If I can go to any concert in the world, I'd choose to go to this guy.  Think come think go, he is such a timeless legend.  Funny thing is, I've no clue what he's saying ;D ;D ;D ;D

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-saDqely-E&list=RD2cmI4ldY3ek&index=14 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-saDqely-E&list=RD2cmI4ldY3ek&index=14)


Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 23, 2018, 02:04:31 PM
Majestic, from the most distant time
The sun rises and sets.
Time passes and men cannot stop it.
The four seasons serve them,
But do not belong to them.
The years flow like water.
Everything passes away before my eyes.


-The Emperor Wu of Han

*Besides a song, poems can speak the human heart well.  I love the vivid writings of Chinese poetry - almost like bringing that piece of writing to life and you can feel the writer's sentiment. 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 03, 2018, 11:50:58 AM
Note to self:  There's such a thing as this.  Put this on your bucket list. 

https://www.travelzoo.com/cruises/more/-18-299-Sail-the-World-in-120-Days-incl-Oceanview-Cabin-2604869/?ec=1 (https://www.travelzoo.com/cruises/more/-18-299-Sail-the-World-in-120-Days-incl-Oceanview-Cabin-2604869/?ec=1)

and add this too:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zgoBvc64dw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zgoBvc64dw)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 06, 2018, 11:45:17 AM
When your teeth decay you cannot
Grow new ones.  When your hair falls
Out you cannot plant it again.
I get up at dawn and look
At myself in the mirror.
My face is wrinkled, my hair
Is grey.  I am filled with pity
For the years that are gone like
Split water.  It can't be helped.
I take a cup of wine and
Turn to the bookcase once more.
Back though the centuries I
Visit Shun and Yu the Great
And Kue Lung, that famous rowdy.
Across three thousand years I
Can still see them plainly.
What does it matter?  My flesh,
Like Theirs, wears away with time


-Lu Yu
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 13, 2018, 09:21:13 AM
A Faithful Wife

You know I have a husband.
Why did you give me these two glowing pearls?
I could acknowledge your love
And sew them on my red dress,
But I come from a noble family,
Courtiers of the Emperor.
My husband is an officer in the Palace Guard.
Of course I realize that your intentions
Are pure as the light of Heavan,
But I have sworn to be true to my husband
In life and in death.
So I must give back your beautiful pearls,
With two tears to match them.
Why didn't I meet you
Before I was married?

-Chang Chi


*Pondering.... nws hlub leejtwg nes?  Yog vim li cas nws los kua muag thaum nws muab cov pearls rov qab rau tus txiv neej thiab puas yog kev hlub ua rau nws tseem nrog nws tus txiv los yog reputation?  Nyeem tej no ua rau kuv xav li no. 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 25, 2018, 01:43:50 PM
Heard the news.  My heart is broken and heavy.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 09, 2018, 01:30:20 PM
My son cancelled his American wedding.  He decided to save the $$ towards his honeymoon and future. Good for him and less work for me :D :D I'm booked till August, soooo busy.  This weekend, a funeral and a wedding.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 16, 2018, 03:15:38 PM
I have an intern coming this Fall.  This will be my 4th ones. 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 29, 2018, 09:44:22 AM
What a busy weekend.  Tej laus ib txwm hais tias tus txiv ua nom hos tus niam ua num.  It's not my priority in life to ua nom ua tswv but it's a dream of his that I'm helping.  Hmoob txoj kev ua nom ua tswv, yes makes little impact/changes in society except pab kom sawvdaws txawj sib hlub sib raug zoo vim peb hmoob tseem muaj kev sib cais koj pab kuv pawg, my opinion.



Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 01, 2018, 02:35:56 PM
Note to self:  I passed over them thinking.....b ut not bad, was pleasantly surprised. 

Hmong Group:  FBI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WP_SE4WhAAo&index=13&list=RDMM05THna6gWSs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WP_SE4WhAAo&index=13&list=RDMM05THna6gWSs)

Tank Chang

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8O4n3g52_4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8O4n3g52_4)

*Like better than the original.

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 07, 2018, 02:55:52 PM
I'm so excited!

An airline service will be providing direct/non stop flight to San Diego and that means I can go more often.  Price is not bad - $49 one way.   Yipppeeeee!  I can go dip my feet in the ocean and come back ;D ;D ;D OR I can lounge around by the Ocean and dip fully into it and then come back....(with plenty of sun burn) :D :D
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 21, 2018, 11:47:21 AM
Bee Zeee Bee Zee........... .............. Bee Zeee!!!
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 28, 2018, 11:10:45 AM
I'm counting down the days, hours, and minutes before I see you again.  I can't wait to walk on your shores  and touch your salty air. I've been researching and know where I want to be.  But, I'm just glad I was able to come back.  Soon, we'll see each other once more and I can embrace you again.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on July 26, 2018, 01:24:58 PM
3 weeks and I'll see you.  Can't wait to delight myself in your heat!
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 02, 2018, 02:16:34 PM
Note to self:  Life should include sad songs and beautiful scenery


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onxMzmA1V-Q (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onxMzmA1V-Q)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 17, 2018, 08:52:30 AM
Bee zee bee zeee...

Saturday we left the house at 6 am and arrived at our destination around 10 am.  Stay until 4pm and then left to another place 3 hours away for a fundraising event.  Stayed there until 10:30 pm and the husband was already under the influence of alcohol so I was the lone driver during the 4 hour long drive. 

Yes, I was tired and driving along some foggy country roads did not put my imagination to rest either:  Some ghoulish creatures lurking among the trees, appearing on the side of the roads, in the middle of the roads, running alongside my car...it was a perfect setting for a horror movie, my thoughts ;D ;D:  Foggy road, solitary car, a night as dark as coal, heavily wooded, cornfields, cars break down, no phone signal, etc... After awhile, my imagination humors me more than anything and
I found myself smiling and my heart at peace.

Finally, in the early morning hours we arrived and me probably looking like a woman on her PMS  ;D ;D but there was a huge event in town and all the hotels were rented out.  Fasting backwards a few days ago, the hubby said not to worried plenty of hotels.  Anyway, I did the best thing:  Slept in the hotel parking lot -  and at the crack of dawn left to get ready at an Aunty's place.  Throughout the day, lots of activities (political & social) and did not get home until 4 am today. 

A student came in, took one look at me and knew I did not get a good rest  :D :D :D :D :D 

I'm still feeling like a zombie...been yawning all morning.  If someone ask me do I want $$, good food, or nice bed...I choose a nice bed.

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 28, 2018, 08:52:55 AM
Another bee zeeee weekend.  A quiet Friday and this is my tune at the moment.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1ubrA5SsUo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1ubrA5SsUo)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wM-XhQeFzW4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wM-XhQeFzW4)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on October 05, 2018, 12:23:24 PM
Another bee zee wekeend....hea ding out of town to a hmong event.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on November 13, 2018, 02:59:56 PM
Entering another milestone in life.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 26, 2019, 11:25:12 AM
I've been attending too many funerals lately and it's not for the elderly anymore.  People my age and younger who passed away from terminal illness.  Just last weekend, I was at a funeral for a young lady 25 years old.  Two days ago, a friend of mine, same age as me, passed away.  Next weekend, heading to 2 funerals.  Life is short and precious.... like sands in an hour glass.  Count your blessing and cherished your loved ones. 

This is for you, dear friend:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcVcmWHvsO0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcVcmWHvsO0)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 08, 2019, 12:51:09 PM
Note to self: 

"Hmoob txoj kev HLUB yuav tsum ua ob txog hauj lwm thiaj txhais tau tias HLUB no. HLUB yuav tsum muaj qhov hais (emotion expressed) thiab qhov yus yuav tsum nqis tes ua (action)."

*Anonymous Quotes


Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 18, 2019, 08:25:44 AM
So tired...and I'm going to need a few days to recover.  Thursday had a big event at home which means lots of cooking, etc.  Friday was decorating for the another event.  Saturday was another bigger which means more work.  Sunday was another smaller event at home but still lots of cooking.....

and today, Monday... so tired.  Feel like a zombie today.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 22, 2019, 11:41:26 AM
Sister Not of the Same Mother

Koj mus ua neej lawm thov kom koj mus tau lub neej zoo ua rau peb muaj lub chawv vam kev kaj siab nrog koj....
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 09, 2019, 02:19:19 PM
Ok, so I get butterflies in my stomach when I come across scene like these... and that warm fuzzy feelings.  May I never lose that fluttering in my heart no matter how old I become.  Love is a beautiful thing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i282C1Yp7_o (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i282C1Yp7_o)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zMPkLSOEKk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zMPkLSOEKk)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 05, 2019, 04:23:27 PM
Mus zoo koj brother..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mtjd5vFzNIM&list=RDgcVcmWHvsO0&index=14 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mtjd5vFzNIM&list=RDgcVcmWHvsO0&index=14)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 07, 2019, 11:12:02 AM
Road trip to the west was great!  Wyoming has open spaces where cows roamed, dry twigs thrived, and hot springs/geysers to your heart's contents.  The Grand Teton, what a majestic mountains...an d trails leading to it w/ the waterfalls, cool breeze, and stunning views..  At the top, you're eye to eye w/ mountain glaciers and see the cool mist rising up.

Denver -surrounds by mountains ranges..oh the mountain ranges and the drive up can either be described as nightmarish or joyfully high.  For me, it was  both - driving so close to the ledge - imagining falling off to the valleys below.  No guard rails, narrow roads, and an adrenaline journey.  The view at the top of the world is spectacular!  Mountains ranges w/ their glaciers peaks close up view, deep valleys below w/ green vegetation, winding river, roads, and dotted houses in the distance.  The air is fresh, crisp, and cool.  Every now and then a critter of some sort - or one that looks like a hedge hog scurried along -probably looking soft petting or a quick meal.  That darn thing looks well fed and I'm guessing much loved from those who ventures to the top.  So this is what the top the world looks like  - where the clouds, land, mist touched...

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 15, 2019, 08:36:37 AM
A song by a favorite singer of mines.  For people in this situation, just leave and be free.  You deserve better. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acz05Y0cqeQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acz05Y0cqeQ)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 09, 2019, 08:29:07 AM
Sister Not of the Same Mother

Koj mus ua neej lawm thov kom koj mus tau lub neej zoo ua rau peb muaj lub chawv vam kev kaj siab nrog koj....
She came back.  The guy was more interested in her $$ and when he found out she was broke, she came back.   If I have a magic wand, I'll find her a nice man but tus kuv nyiam ces nws tsis nyiam tus nws nyiam ces kuv tsis nyiam.  Txoj kev hlub tiag nrhiav nyuaj kawg li. 

My life is like a busy bee:  Went to a Pre New Year opening, fundraising, and funerals.  Believe it or not, work is where I get to rest heheheheh....

Also, my house is becoming an empty nester..w/ only a child left.  3 of us in a big house.  It's a nice feeling to see your kids grown and becoming more and more independent.  I can breathe a little sigh of relief and have more time for each other, spouse and I.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 17, 2019, 09:36:28 AM
Memory Lane

Some of you weren't even born yet when these songs became popular :D :D :D

This song https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHutZXREZ0E (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHutZXREZ0E)

I heard it the first time when I met my first crush at a Hmong New Year.  I was an out of town girl coming to the Hmong New Year and at the time we didn't have hmong band, singers like today.. So at the time we had DJ playing popular mainstream music at the time.  She was very popular.  Anyway, there I was the new girl and the room was a little dark.  Suddenly, this guy came up and grab my hands for a dance.  Of courses, I followed him and this song was on.  He glanced at me intently and I glanced up and really took a good look at him and he was pretty cute ehhehehe... Later on I found out he was a grade up above me. 

After the New year we kept in touch.  One day we hung out and this other song was playing in the background:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s09LuDYX12g&list=RDxuZA6qiJVfU&index=28 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s09LuDYX12g&list=RDxuZA6qiJVfU&index=28)

Yes he was my first crush.  Our lives took a different turn but I wouldn't change a thing.   


Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 25, 2019, 09:52:28 AM
My Elementary School

After 30 some plus years I finally step foot into my old elementary school.  Walking through the place is like walking through memories of years ago:  Playing w/ rubber band braid jumping rope, double dutch, playing catch, my first crush happened here.  One morning he was standing by the door to the lunch room and I was running inside, getting breakfast.  For some reason, I stopped when I saw him and we looked at each other, not saying a word.  I left to get breakfast and he got a carton of milk and came slowly to my table walking back and forth drinking it while staring at me  Of course, with each stare my face become hotter and hotter like flames on my cheek.  Of course, I continue w/ breakfast as if I didn't notice anything but inside I was a mess ahhaahhhahhaha hahahahahah.  Those were the innocent days..

Another memory, the ESL class.  We had a vietnamese guy for a teacher and he would demonstrate pronunciation by saying"lower your lips upper teeth...La La, "  Also, he introduces to us to American culture and music.  I learned my Pledge of Allegiance here and those beloved National songs..  He would write the lyrics on a big chart and w/ his guitar we would sing to My Country Tis of Thee, God Bless America, This Land Is Your Land, etc..

All these memories and more came over me as I walked the school ground.  I wondered where my classmates have disappeared to, how they're doing in life, how many have passed on, and how many have returned and walked the school ground as I have.  Everyone has been long one now and only my memories remains and so my memories I take with me.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on October 09, 2019, 09:46:04 AM
3 Eyes

In Life, one must have 3 eyes.  Two to observes and learn from others and the third to reflect and improve one's self.
-Ying Chang
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 18, 2019, 09:33:23 AM
Busy Life

The last 20 years or so I've always been so busy.  I thought that when I reach this AGE right now I would be less busy..I thought I would be zipping coconut in some exotic island some where ...dipping in an infinity pool overlooking a cliff high above the ocean and mountain views on my left and right and before me the ocean stretch as far as the eyes can see.... and if I close my eyes..I'd hear the breeze calling my name...hahhaha ha..

But no, busy busy busy..  To be honest..I'm not busy for myself.. but for others.

Why do I do it?  I hope one day peb hmoob sib hlub, sib pab, sib khoom ua ib pab ib pawg...  That's why.

But yeah...sometim es I wonder what life would be like if I don't give a care about peb hmoob this or that and just think about me..... maybe I would be zipping that coconut...dipp ing in an infinity pool overlooking a cliff w/ the vastness of the sea stretched before me as far as the eyes can see...

To be honest, I dream of both... and so much more. 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 23, 2019, 03:07:10 PM
Mus zoo koj dablaug hnub no koj tu mob tsis tso koj tseg.  Mus nrog vajtswv nyob ib hnub peb mam sib ntsib nyob ua kev mus tag ib sim tsis muaj hnub ncaim.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcVcmWHvsO0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcVcmWHvsO0)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 17, 2020, 08:41:39 AM
Mus zoo koj kuv txiv....yuav hlub, yuav nco, yuav tshua, yuav mob siab, yuav khuv xim mus tag ib sim until my last breathe..... 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcVcmWHvsO0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcVcmWHvsO0)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2545e32pdg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2545e32pdg)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 02, 2020, 04:35:38 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Syl2sCfi2WY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Syl2sCfi2WY)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54FhGC2Wkb8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54FhGC2Wkb8)

Zaj dab neeg no yog ib zag w/ ill fated destiny.  Yes it's just a movie created from someone's imagination in an imaginative world but still......... ...........In a corner of my soul I can relate.

And that is being human.  As you go through life you enjoy the sweetness of life along with the bitterness... 

so you don't take life and love for granted.  I've always been a very stubborn soul.....who believes in needles in haystack.






Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 06, 2020, 11:02:33 AM
Note to self:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NP2qxjtTvnU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NP2qxjtTvnU)

*It's been awhile since I came across another drama that I really liked... the last one was The General and I...  and in this drama focus on that enduring love, love conquers, pure love, etcc  The one before that Queen Seondok, a tragic love - deep tragedy...... and this one, another enduring love, innocent & pure, 

These three dramas took love to that next level where you don't really see in others...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YFrGYUq8aA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YFrGYUq8aA)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 11, 2020, 06:14:11 PM
Note to self:

I really like this song but no clue what she's saying... and singer is pretty good...beautif ul too.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36h0-Z6KbL0&list=RD36h0-Z6KbL0&start_radio=1 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36h0-Z6KbL0&list=RD36h0-Z6KbL0&start_radio=1)

I think this must be the original singer:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHNbpbjr0s8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHNbpbjr0s8)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: DuMa on March 11, 2020, 07:25:26 PM
you listening to old music


try this to make you feel young and grow a bigger butt   :2funny:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tmdd7VAQVq8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tmdd7VAQVq8)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 20, 2020, 10:29:55 AM
I just got done watching the final two episodes of Three World Three Lives the Pillow Book and I can say I'm feeling a little warm, fuzzy, at the moment.  Yes it's only a drama and fantasy at that...but when you watch a relationship developed from the beginning to the end, see the hardship and triumphs in the name of love..that does something to a person you know ahhaha.. Unless of course one doesn't believe in love or care for those things..

Although this is only a TV show....I always learn something when I watch these sort of shows..  In this drama....yes.. falling in love happens and sometimes happen naturally....t hat's just the first step to love... but the journey to love is hard....but very rewarding at the end.  To have that person to truly love you as you him is beautiful. 

But I say again and again, love is a beautiful thing..truly the one thing makes the world go round and round and round.. that sunshine on a rainy day... that warmth in a cold world.. .and sometime in everyday life..you feel defeated at times..but love makes everything all right..

Yeah..I know my dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin..and all those feel good hormones are working now ..feeling warm, fuzzy...w/ all these love stuffs...so getting a little philosophical. .

In my life..talking about my view of love.. If I was dating, I wouldn't be afraid to go to a man if I am really into him.  I wouldn't be afraid to tell how I feel, truly how i feel once i know certain how I feel.  I'd go to the moon and back if I  have too but he would want to do the same.. feel the same....

That's my standard.  No matter how much I may love a guy or like a guy.. If he doesn't feel as I do... I'm the last woman knocking on his door.. No need to be clingy.. No need to bother each other....

The best kind of Love is finding a person who truly loves you..love you for your flaws, your strength, and everything in between.  Love you for you as you him.  That's beautiful...an d that's the sort of love everyone should strive in life.  When you find that..you are very blessed indeed....

Yes, I'm this sort of fools...
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 15, 2020, 06:25:16 PM
2020

What a year...loss of my dear cousin, my father, and the pandemic...  Never in my lifetime I'd imagine going through all these at once.  I miss my father and cousin and think of them everyday. They live in my heart and memories and many times I wish it's a dream I'm dreaming and any day any moment I see them strolling through the door, call my name once more...

A piece of my heart is missing; it's laughter replaced by sadness and grief... I try not to dwell too long but if I go there..that's what i find waiting for me...no matter how long this lifetime will be.  I'll be forever sad for this loss/this grief.    Now, all I can do is hold on to precious memories.. 

W/ a loss- you never get over it... You honor their memories, them, by living your best life the best way you know how, cherish each moment/each other, making memories ..

before the sands of time run out..



Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: lilly on May 15, 2020, 08:27:32 PM
I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your father and cousin, Dok_Champa.  I hope you find comfort in the memories of them.  *hugs*
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: ProudLao on May 15, 2020, 08:38:20 PM
Sorry for your loss. Losing anyone we love is never easy. Make them proud by being the best that we can be.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 08, 2020, 09:37:17 AM
Thank you ProudLao.

A timeless classic from a timeless hmong singer.  Thaj Chaw Qub...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtCxNgxRavQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtCxNgxRavQ)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 10, 2020, 08:59:02 AM
My current song list:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dibGp0ocHsE&list=RDMMdibGp0ocHsE&index=1 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dibGp0ocHsE&list=RDMMdibGp0ocHsE&index=1)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SCOimBo5tg&list=RDMM1SCOimBo5tg&start_radio=1 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SCOimBo5tg&list=RDMM1SCOimBo5tg&start_radio=1)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNZH-emehxA&list=RDMM1SCOimBo5tg&index=5 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNZH-emehxA&list=RDMM1SCOimBo5tg&index=5)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRGv2ev0Hgo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRGv2ev0Hgo)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYjqojwp2hQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYjqojwp2hQ)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on July 21, 2020, 10:28:13 AM
We are still going through the pandemic and the numbers are going up daily.  Right now Arizona, CA, and FL has the highest counts in positive rates and death.  Positive rates in my city is rising too and a few people I know tested positive and some even landed in the ICU.  Also, I have resume my normal work schedule at work and it's a little uneasy.  Yes, we're all wearing mask but still after seeing so many people in one day....I keep my fingers crossed.  I don't want to sound like a pessimist  but we are in a Pandemic and can't help being careful.  People are dying..
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: lilly on July 21, 2020, 05:01:04 PM
Yup, it's scary.  I'd rather that the country shut down, everyone continue to social distance, and let the virus die out before we return to normal.  The risk just isn't worth it.  It's a tough time.  Kids need to be in school but it's better for them to continue distance learning until everything is safe.  We need to make sacrifices sometimes and I think this is one of those times where mankind needs to learn to make sacrifices.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 01, 2020, 09:21:19 AM
THE NEXT CHAPTER

I can't wait for the next chapter of my life.  My kids are grown....the last son is off to college and my youngest is a senior.  She's a young lady turning 18 soon and becoming more and more independent. 

The next chapter of my life will be me and the old man...  Looking forward to  that..  As the years goes by, his gray hairs mirror my wrinkles... A walk in the park become cherished memories.. The other day, me, him, and our dog...watching the the sunset. 







Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: DuMa on September 01, 2020, 03:31:26 PM
2020

What a year...loss of my dear cousin, my father, and the pandemic...  Never in my lifetime I'd imagine going through all these at once.  I miss my father and cousin and think of them everyday. They live in my heart and memories and many times I wish it's a dream I'm dreaming and any day any moment I see them strolling through the door, call my name once more...

A piece of my heart is missing; it's laughter replaced by sadness and grief... I try not to dwell too long but if I go there..that's what i find waiting for me...no matter how long this lifetime will be.  I'll be forever sad for this loss/this grief.    Now, all I can do is hold on to precious memories.. 

W/ a loss- you never get over it... You honor their memories, them, by living your best life the best way you know how, cherish each moment/each other, making memories ..

before the sands of time run out..

4 months later, you got time to heal or at least you already got there.  With myself, I am going through it now.  I'm burying a hmong brother this friday.  A statistic to covid 19.  He was only in his 30s.  He left behind 3 young children.  A wife who also lost her brother to a stroke back in feb and he too was my friend who is also in his later 30s. 

You seen the stats and the figures and the numbers.  It doesn't make any sense to you until it hits closer to home.  We all go through our grieving process differently.  We may be angry or we go into isolation cuz we can not deal with the reality of things.  We may go on a blaming route which includes others and thy self.  All these are just natural human behaviors as a first defense as we try to cope with the lost of a love one.  If you die of covid, it is like a space rock hits you and you die.  We only have 6 months of data with covid so it is still new and it is what that is hard to swallow.  Had you die in any other ways, we have years upon years of data for it and I suppose you can call it the norm for being a human being.  It just hits you so fast.  His inlaws caught it, he was at their party so he isolated himself.  His blood oxygen level started to dropped to 90 and he had complication with his breathing.  He goes to the hospital and it goes further to 50.  This is when they put him on ventilation and covid is now 70% into his lungs.  Live on that ventilation machine for a few and you die.  You did not born to die like this.  It is like walking outside, gets mud on your shoes and you die.  It just not fair to how the cookie crumbles.  I can not even imagine how his parents are going through this.  It is like if death comes to his parents and saying which one of your kids are you going to allow me to take?  It is a tough decision that no parents should ever gone through.  Dying, you can't even die by yourself.  You let the living to deal with the turmoil of the death, funeral and beyond.  There is no word or shall I say the right word to explain or talk to the decease family.  I honestly do not even know how to even start a conversation when I see them this friday.  The usual , I'm sorry for your lost and my condolence goes to your family cliche will not be enough.  What to say to his young kids or to his wife? 

It hurts me just to think about it.  I have not cried yet and the closest is a knot in my throat but this friday, I may just do that, cry my eyes out along with their family cuz like I said, the story to how the cookie crumble makes no sense to me.  Death by a new method of dying.  Sometimes I think that the people that died so far this year and during the pandemic are missing out.  Vaccine are in the near future and they will not be around to see how the story of this pandemic in this modern day era will play out. 



 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on November 09, 2020, 02:52:38 PM
Election 2020 - Note to self

I am breathing a deep sign of relief.  Normalcy, decency is returning. 

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Visualmon on November 09, 2020, 10:14:56 PM
Election 2020 - Note to self

I am breathing a deep sign of relief.  Normalcy, decency is returning.

But.... Karendemic and Darendemic are still rising somewhere in America.

(https://media.giphy.com/media/3oEjHRZrrZvrzEmegU/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 18, 2020, 03:34:41 PM
Visual, for sure not Trump ;)

Somewhere Out There

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jl8mzCaCr0&ab_channel=LindaRonstadt-Topic (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jl8mzCaCr0&ab_channel=LindaRonstadt-Topic)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 20, 2020, 03:49:22 PM
I went to the funeral of my college classmate.  We were young and struggling but we had big dreams and education was our ticket.  We worked hard, supported one another and finally we all graduated at the same times.  After graduation, we went our separate ways and did our best to live up to our dreams.  She became an influential member in her profession, in her community, and lovely mother to her children.  Though I don't see her often, deep in my heart, I always wish we live to our old age, with hair as white as snow, wrinkles carving in our eyes, and cheeks, see our children's children, etc... That hope and dream evaporated when I stand before her coffin and replaced with sorrow.  I looked over to her grieving children and words left me.  We looked at each and our eyes reflected our grief and pain, in our own way.  Shortly, after that I want to another funeral of an elderly and there too, words were few but the silence of grief is no less.

When I was young, it was hard to understand how old folks wailed so easily.  Now I've seen so many loss and wailing come easily from my heart and flowing out like rivers in my eyes...  Maybe people who knew grief and loss coined that phrase, "cry me a river..."

Loss and life, both inseparable...

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Visualmon on December 25, 2020, 02:09:07 AM
I went to the funeral of my college classmate.  We were young and struggling but we had big dreams and education was our ticket.  We worked hard, supported one another and finally we all graduated at the same times.  After graduation, we went our separate ways and did our best to live up to our dreams.  She became an influential member in her profession, in her community, and lovely mother to her children.  Though I don't see her often, deep in my heart, I always wish we live to our old age, with hair as white as snow, wrinkles carving in our eyes, and cheeks, see our children's children, etc... That hope and dream evaporated when I stand before her coffin and replaced with sorrow.  I looked over to her grieving children and words left me.  We looked at each and our eyes reflected our grief and pain, in our own way.  Shortly, after that I want to another funeral of an elderly and there too, words were few but the silence of grief is no less.

When I was young, it was hard to understand how old folks wailed so easily.  Now I've seen so many loss and wailing come easily from my heart and flowing out like rivers in my eyes...  Maybe people who knew grief and loss coined that phrase, "cry me a river..."

Loss and life, both inseparable...



Remind me of Rose in her old age telling her romantic stories to a group of researchers inside their ship.

https://youtu.be/F2RnxZnubCM (https://youtu.be/F2RnxZnubCM)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 26, 2020, 03:42:24 PM
Yes people that have gone are never far from our hearts and thoughts.. and a love like theirs...

can touch us one time
And last for a lifetime
And never let go 'til we're gone


Still....our heart will go on....
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Visualmon on December 29, 2020, 05:22:04 AM
Yes people that have gone are never far from our hearts and thoughts.. and a love like theirs...

can touch us one time
And last for a lifetime
And never let go 'til we're gone


Still....our heart will go on....

Dok Champa, I imagine you'd be singing that lyric so good.

Looove can touch us one tiimme
And last forrrr aaa liiffee tiimme
And nee-ver let gooo 'tillll we're gooone

Stillll... my heart willlll goooo ooonnnnnnnnnn
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 22, 2021, 06:30:30 PM
A sad night

Just heard the news, someone I know succumb to Covid-19.  What a sad night.  My heart is heavy & crying.  Ever since my father passed away, grief never left my side.  When I hear of news like this, my heart ache for those left behind.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: DuMa on January 22, 2021, 06:55:40 PM
A sad night

Just heard the news, someone I know succumb to Covid-19.  What a sad night.  My heart is heavy & crying.  Ever since my father passed away, grief never left my side.  When I hear of news like this, my heart ache for those left behind.

You gotta lose enough to get numb.  I hope I don't have to endure another one at the expense of covid. 

It is like you are mad and sad but you are so helpless.  You just can not do enough to help save anyone else for all must walk their own line.  One simple mistake or putting your guards down can be that costly. 

2 that I know, the kids are the ones that bought it home but they lived while their parents died.  How are you gonna live the rest of your life, knowing that you killed your own parents? 

My gosh!!!   
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 04, 2021, 02:08:30 PM
Yes Duma, buồn quá. 

Snowing 

Right now it's snowing outside my windows.  It's amazing seeing those flakes falling down like feathers blowing in the wind .  Branches of trees bare and every now and then the neighborhood squirrels scurried hurriedly across the electric wire between the trees.  Every now and then, I see the family of deer in view looking for food.  Sometimes, they come across assorted apples, some of their favorites.  Every once in a blue blue moon, the stag comes out.  He's a beauty! Manificient horns branching out like tree limbs, and deep, intense eyes staring back at you.  He's well hidden but of course, I knew he's out there looking out for his family.  We have a mutual respect for one another and when our path crosses, we have this silent understanding.   On this snowy day, they're in hiding...proba bly taking covers under an evergreen bushes beyond the bare trees...
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 15, 2021, 10:15:27 AM
Coldest Day of The Year

I left a soda can in my car and overnight it exploded firing frozen soda clumps all over the front of my car: bottom, side, and top.  It's going to take meticulous cleaning which I dread of doing - too cold to think about it.  If I venture out, my bones would freeze first before the cleaning is complete.  For now, those dark stains staring back would be a constant reminder of bad idea leaving soda bottle on the coldest day of the year..

Another reminder, I was attending a funeral over the weekend.  During the day, the warmth of the kitchen kept  us warm but in the evening, the cold wash over my body, seeps into my bones, and slowly enters my interior.  A cup of hot coffee is a temporarily cure every now and then.  But it was a final good bye to a beloved community member and so everyone bear the cold in silence and grieve in our heart.  Yes, another loss to COVID-19, gone too soon.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 18, 2021, 05:27:41 PM
Yog sijhawm tig tau rov qab...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmJjKvU8z0M&ab_channel=menglorstar (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmJjKvU8z0M&ab_channel=menglorstar)



Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 21, 2021, 12:10:05 PM
Try to Remember

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QEm67QbgEGY&ab_channel=Reflections14ph (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QEm67QbgEGY&ab_channel=Reflections14ph)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhwPelqP8kY&ab_channel=ApriliaZhou (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhwPelqP8kY&ab_channel=ApriliaZhou)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZse8kPS1n4&ab_channel=MelyaAmbarwati (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZse8kPS1n4&ab_channel=MelyaAmbarwati)
Silence Ost


Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 02, 2021, 10:17:17 AM
Yesterday

Whatever happened,  happened yesterday and whatever ended, ended yesterday.  Today I'm good.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 26, 2021, 12:55:12 AM
Chanel

I came home tonight and a Chanel bag is on the counter staring at me.  Inside, I found a Chanel gift box and inside a Chanel purse, this one:

https://www.chanel.com/us/fashion/p/A01112Y0129594305/classic-handbag-lambskin-gold-tone-metal/ (https://www.chanel.com/us/fashion/p/A01112Y0129594305/classic-handbag-lambskin-gold-tone-metal/)

A birthday present I was told...

I did a little research tonight and what a pricy little thing too.  A house or two can be built for a deserving family or two in Laos  for the cost of this little thing...


Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: tRouBLe on April 26, 2021, 06:09:16 AM
Chanel

I came home tonight and a Chanel bag is on the counter staring at me.  Inside, I found a Chanel gift box and inside a Chanel purse, this one:

https://www.chanel.com/us/fashion/p/A01112Y0129594305/classic-handbag-lambskin-gold-tone-metal/ (https://www.chanel.com/us/fashion/p/A01112Y0129594305/classic-handbag-lambskin-gold-tone-metal/)

A birthday present I was told...

I did a little research tonight and what a pricy little thing too.  A house or two can be built for a deserving family or two in Laos  for the cost of this little thing...

Happy birthday, Dok_Champa! That was really nice of the person to give you a Chanel handbag.  O0  Some Chanel purses/handbags are classic and great investment pieces.  Like with many high-end luxury brands, Chanel will also repair handbags for people if there are any issues, only if they are authentic Chanel merchandise.  :)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 26, 2021, 08:40:06 AM
Thanks Trouble and yes I am blessed w/ love for the Chanel bag and thanks for the info on Chanel.  Good to know.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: lilly on April 26, 2021, 09:54:07 AM
Happy birthday, Dok_Champa.  Regarding your gift, that was such a nice gesture, but if I were given a gift like that I'd tell the person to return it and just give me money.  I can do so much more useful things with the money (mortgage, food, house maintenance, a trip, etc.).  I see luxury purses and other things of that nature as wasteful.  But I'm happy to see that you are loved and thought of on your birthday!  You're a kind person.  You deserve it!
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 26, 2021, 11:37:01 AM
Thanks Lilly, agree with you.  The first thought came to mind last night was reselling and use the $$ for something else/better use.  I do appreciate the GIVER's love....

To be honest, I would not feel comfortable carrying such an expensive purse....I'll be self conscious I have such a thing on me and that's far from who I am ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: tRouBLe on April 26, 2021, 11:49:33 AM
Thanks Trouble and yes I am blessed w/ love for the Chanel bag and thanks for the info on Chanel.  Good to know.

You’re welcome!

Thanks Lilly, agree with you.  The first thought came to mind last night was reselling and use the $$ for something else/better use.   I do appreciate the GIVER's love....

To be honest, I would not feel comfortable carrying such an expensive purse....I'll be self conscious I have such a thing on me and that's far from who I am ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

In regards to the highlighted: instead of reselling it, have the buyer or you return it.  That way, (s)he/you will receive all the funds back instead of just most of it if you were to resell.  Then use the funds for what you would prefer to do with it.   ;D
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 29, 2021, 10:07:05 AM
OCEAN

For the longest time I was lingering on your Ocean shore tossing message in a bottle.  Day of happiness, a bottle, days of sadness, days of nothingness, days of quiet and calm, days of excitement, days of stress, days of thinking, days of tears, days of love, days of reminiscing, days of encouragement & praise, days of hope.. Littering your shores w/ bottles everywhere...

For a long time I came, decades you can say....every once in a blue moon..

A shooting star, the lone solitary figure standing on your shoreline, scribbling message in the bottles before disappearing into the night sky.

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 05, 2021, 06:54:37 PM
Car Issues & Bus rides

My car has car troubles.  The mechanic said it'll take a while, a day or two, to get them fixed.  Instead of calling home, I decided to take the city transportation .  While waiting for the bus, I wonder if anyone I know drives by.  I was waiting at a very busy intersection part of town.  Good thing no such thing as "what are you doing at the bus stop ;D ;D ;D ;D" It has been almost three decades since I last rode on one.  It was a relaxing ride but I was mindful of COVID and other passengers were too.  We all kept our distance and no one said anything.  Sitting inside that bus reminds me of my college days, my main mode of transportation rain or shine.  Not sure when I'll ever take another ride again so I cherish the moment...
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 08, 2021, 11:23:47 AM
Road Trip

Just got back from a road trip to Glacier National Park.  The drive WEST was amazing.  Droved passed MN to SD to MT.   The part of MN closer to SD is dry and good for raising cattle.  Once arrived in SD and MT, they are cattle country.  Everywhere the eye can see are rolling grass hills, no trees, and cattle.  Few agriculture, if any.  Badlands in SD is beautiful and beautiful weather to match:  puffy clouds, clear blue sky, and sun, plenty of sun.  Glacier National Park is beautiful and went on several hikes.  That's all I'm going to say for now otherwise I could write several pages ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on July 05, 2021, 08:41:03 AM
Chicken farms in CA

A family member is growing some chickens in the hills bordering CA & Oregon.  He needed help w/ the fencing. The location where he is is very windy and for some reasons his fences have been knocked over a few times and he was desperate.  So off we went.  Once I got there, almost in the middle of now where, shelter was self built, no AC, running water (limited), no frig so food spoils quickly, and dusty.  Sleeping was camping style, in a tent.   I rolled up my sleeves and started to work.  From dusk to dawn, I worked like I've never worked before, those hard manual labors.   For the first two weeks, I was doing well.  By the third week, exhaustion sets in, hooot temp. was unbearable (in the 100+ plus), and my body became sick/overheat, stomach problems, no appetite.  I was getting sicker by the day and I knew I had to do something.  So, off I went to a hotel for 2 days to recuperate:  Lots of rest, cool down, drink plenty of fluid, and the last resort if that didn't help, I was set to get to the ER.  But glad eventually, I did recover little by little...

This whole journey, I have a newfound respect for people growing chickens up in the hills of CA.  It's hard intensive labors and they deserved every penny.  They put their livelihood, entire life saving in that chicken coop, their life, security, health, everything they have.  The lucky survived and came home w/ gold and the unlucky return with despair, the worst kind. 

It's a totally new world up there... but I'm glad to be back to my simple world.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: lilly on July 07, 2021, 10:52:16 AM
WOW, Dok_Champa!  You truly are a champ for staying out there in that living condition for 2+ weeks!  In that kind of situation, you need to stay hydrated.  I wonder if you got heat stroke and/or were dehydrated.  That was a scare!  I'm glad you are OK.  Anyway, this is my first time hearing of people growing chickens in CA like they are growing weed (at least that's how it sounds like to me).  Sounds like they were growing for commercial purposes and not for personal consumption.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on July 12, 2021, 09:21:19 AM
Lilly:  Yes I was getting heat stroke and glad I listen to my body and found a way to cool it down.  I was there during the severe heat across the West and the CA fire.

Good Bye Phauj

Note to self:  My Phauj passed away and she was the eccentric, stubborn ones of all my phauj.  She lived life following her heart and at times caused my dad a few gray hairs but they love each other very much and now she's gone but at least at peace from her life's sufferings/pains.   Towards the end of her life, she became a devote Christian and as the bible say, absence in the body presence in the Lord.  Mus zoo koj Phuaj....
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 05, 2021, 11:50:30 AM
All Time Favorite Hmong Musician

If I have to pick one (1) it'll be Touly Vangkhue.  It's been more than 3 decades and his music still give me chills. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3qHm9T65xc&ab_channel=AverageHmoob (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3qHm9T65xc&ab_channel=AverageHmoob)

At the height of his popularity, I was not a fan because I was too busy with school and didn't pay attention to his music.  Only later I appreciated this man's talent and gift of music.  What a legend.  Oh, another one is Bird Thongchai for non-Hmong.  He is truly amazing as well.  Both of their music melts hearts, brings chills.




Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 19, 2021, 08:07:31 AM
AND I said to God, "He exist" and so bless to witness that.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 23, 2021, 08:16:09 AM
I cry for Afghanistan.  It has fallen.  Right now people are rushing to fly out of the country like back in Laos, the fall of Laos.  What a sad period in history.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 27, 2021, 08:14:33 AM
A Gift

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrLkTZrPZA4&ab_channel=EltonJohnVEVO (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrLkTZrPZA4&ab_channel=EltonJohnVEVO)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 31, 2021, 08:28:51 AM
Every Day I Love You

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPSCMgkvHFI&ab_channel=onscreenlyrics.by.j (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPSCMgkvHFI&ab_channel=onscreenlyrics.by.j)

"Every Day I Love You"

I don't know, but I believe
That some things are meant to be
And that you'll make a better me
Everyday I love you
I never thought that dreams came true
But you showed me that they do
You know that I learn something new
Everyday I love you

'Cos I believe that destiny
Is out of our control (don't you know that I do)
And you'll never live until you love
With all your heart and soul.

It's a touch when I feel bad
It's a smile when I get mad
All the little things I am
Everyday I love you

Everyday I love you more
Everyday I love you

'Cos I believe that destiny
Is out of our control (don't you know that I do)
And you'll never live until you love
With all your heart and soul

If I asked would you say yes?
Together we're the very best
I know that I am truly blessed
Everyday I love you
And I'll give you my best
Everyday I love you
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 01, 2021, 10:35:41 AM
No Matter What

Why didn't I find you sooner... but it's better late than never!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eul_Vt6SZY&ab_channel=BoyzoneVEVO (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eul_Vt6SZY&ab_channel=BoyzoneVEVO)

No matter what they tell us
No matter what they do
No matter what they teach us
What we believe is true

No matter what they call us
However they attack
No matter where they take us
We'll find our own way back

I can't deny what I believe
I can't be what I'm not
I know I'll love forever
I know, no matter what

If only tears were laughter
If only night was day
If only prayers were answered
Then we would hear God say

No matter what they tell you
No matter what they do
No matter what they teach you
What you believe is true

And I will keep you safe and strong
(And sheltered) Sheltered from the storm
(No matter where) No matter where it's barren
(A dream) A dream is being born

No matter who they follow
No matter where they lead
No matter how they judge us
I'll be everyone you need

No matter if the sun don't shine (the sun don't shine)
Or if the skies are blue (skies are blue)
No matter what the ending
My life began with you

I can't deny what I believe (I believe)
I can't be what I'm not
I know, I know
I know this love's forever

That's all that matters now
No matter what (no, no matter)
No, no matter what (no, no matter)
No, no matter what
(No, no matter, that's all that matters to me)
No, no matter what
(No, no matter, that's all that matters to me)
No, no matter what
(No, no matter, that's all that matters to me)
No, no matter what
(No, no matter, that's all that matters to me)
No, no matter what
(No, no matter what, that's all that matters to me)
No, no matter what
(No, no matter what, that's all that matters to me)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 02, 2021, 04:01:43 PM
Don't Know Much

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_ElZaDt2D4&ab_channel=LindaRonstadt-Topic (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_ElZaDt2D4&ab_channel=LindaRonstadt-Topic)

Look at this face I know the years are showing
Look at this life I still don't know where it's going
I don't know much but I know I love you
That may be all I need to know

Look at these eyes they never seen what matters
Look at these dreams so beaten and so battered
I don't know much but I know I love you
That may be all I need to know

So many questions still left unanswered
So much I've never broken through
And when I feel you near me, sometimes I see so clearly
That only truth I'll never know is me and you

Look at this man so blessed with inspiration
Look at this soul still searching for salvation
I don't know much but I know I love you
That may be all I need to know

I don't know much but I know I love you
That may be all I need to know
I don't know much but I know I love you
That may be all there is to know
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 07, 2021, 08:39:05 AM
"Let your face be the last I see before I die.." 

*Anonymous**
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 08, 2021, 08:25:15 AM
Can't Take My Eyes Off You

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYwQy_9JPtQ&ab_channel=FrankieValli-Topic (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYwQy_9JPtQ&ab_channel=FrankieValli-Topic)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on October 19, 2021, 07:31:37 PM
A Quiet Evening

Dinner:  roast duck, steam fish, wine and papaya salad.

Now he and I on the bed.  He's playing w/ his phone, a wine on his side of the table.  Me, sitting diagonal to him leaning on the wall w/ my laptop and wine on my side.  Every now and then I glanced at him and smiled...a beautiful quiet evening just him and I...in an equally quiet empty house.

Too early for bed and so here we are doing the things we both love:) 

Welcome to growing old together:) 

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on October 28, 2021, 08:49:09 AM
I Wanna Grow Old With You

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f28MJ7IMsS8&ab_channel=GresandyAulia (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f28MJ7IMsS8&ab_channel=GresandyAulia)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on November 15, 2021, 03:53:45 PM
He Shared.... and this deserves to go on a wall

(https://media.images.yourquote.in/post/720/0/0/29/187/x7Rb4731.webp)


Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on November 15, 2021, 04:02:17 PM
AND He Said, This is ME

(https://cfcdn.zulily.com/images/cache/product/1000x1201/409135/zu84211883_main_tm1580860562.jpg)

What a Beautiful soul....
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 25, 2021, 11:21:47 AM
Christmas 2021

Most of my kids are working during the holidays and w/ the virus increasing, we decided safety is more important. Covid go away!

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 13, 2022, 06:04:24 PM
(http://Staring at Covid)

Covid and I have been dancing and I'm staring at it.  Soon I'll know if our path cross.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 17, 2022, 11:21:29 PM
Thank you for loving me

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GC5E8ie2pdM&ab_channel=TinaTurnerOfficial (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GC5E8ie2pdM&ab_channel=TinaTurnerOfficial)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 22, 2022, 04:10:23 PM
Weird Dream

In my dream, I was making fish for dinner.  In the first dish, fry fish and that turns out normal.  As I was making the second dish, fish soup, I was chopping the fish and in my dream, it was not a fish I was chopping but body parts.  I thought to myself, what a funny looking fish w/ arms, legs, torso like a human and in my dream while I was chopping, I felt so nauseated.  A family came by and I recognized them as friends of long ago.  They came for a wedding, they say and ready to return home.  I asked where, they told me.  I invite them for lunch but  the human like fish torso was not done yet they went to feast on the fry fish I made earlier.  I woke up.

Weird dreams and I still felt nauseated afterward.  I figure why I had that dream.  1) Must be the talk of fishing and 2) I was watching a Kdrama and the last episodes, a little girl was murdered and her body was chopped up.  Yes, that's my conclusion.  So basically as the elders say, "noj mov tsau npau suav ntau"
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: DuMa on January 22, 2022, 04:51:21 PM
Weird Dream

In my dream, I was making fish for dinner.  In the first dish, fry fish and that turns out normal.  As I was making the second dish, fish soup, I was chopping the fish and in my dream, it was not a fish I was chopping but body parts.  I thought to myself, what a funny looking fish w/ arms, legs, torso like a human and in my dream while I was chopping, I felt so nauseated.  A family came by and I recognized them as friends of long ago.  They came for a wedding, they say and ready to return home.  I asked where, they told me.  I invite them for lunch but  the human like fish torso was not done yet they went to feast on the fry fish I made earlier.  I woke up.

Weird dreams and I still felt nauseated afterward.  I figure why I had that dream.  1) Must be the talk of fishing and 2) I was watching a Kdrama and the last episodes, a little girl was murdered and her body was chopped up.  Yes, that's my conclusion.  So basically as the elders say, "noj mov tsau npau suav ntau"

If you’re dreaming about eating a fish …

According to CheckMyDream.c om, the symbolism behind a dream about eating fish depends on the style of fish. If you’re eating a large fish, it can symbolize soon-to-be-gotten profits, or the quick accumulation of material goods. A smaller fish, however, can mean you’re in for some small troubles or minor annoyances. Eating a raw fish can mean you need to spend more time considering the specifics of an upcoming plan.
https://www.thecut.com/article/dream-about-fish.html (https://www.thecut.com/article/dream-about-fish.html)

for the record, I don't read other people's journal or log.  It just so happens that I'm bored and  your was the only one available.  Yes, bored and stuck at work on a rare saturday.  Pushing out backup work just only because I'm going to vegas in a few weeks. 

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 29, 2022, 11:06:58 PM
Alone

Note to self:  Just me, myself and I tonight.  Betsy, my dog, is w/ my oldest and is no longer mines.  Nights like these would be nice to have a dog as company.  Hmm, maybe I should consider getting another one.  Welcome to the life of an empty nester.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 04, 2022, 07:39:40 PM
Travel Vlogs & Being Alone

I have so much time now that i've been watching those travel vlogs in youtube. Some of my favorite, Paddy Doyle & Planet Doug of their travel vlogs of Thailand.  I don't think I can do solo travel like them.  No matter how beautiful the place, I'll be so lonely and that feeling might take away my enjoyment.  I cannot be a solo traveler.  Never.

In fact, I'm so use to having another person next to me, with me, I don't think I'll survive going through life ALONE.  I don't think I can do it.  I would always need a companion, someone to talk to, laugh with, share love & joy like I need air.  I give credits to people that are happy being with me, myself, and I!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Kudos to you!!!!!!
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 15, 2022, 01:05:00 AM
Valentines

I came home to a table cover in beautiful red table cloth, wine & two wine glasses, and a beautiful plate of steak/shrimp/veggies.  Love, thank you for showing me your love on this special day and loving me -my flaws and all.   May we grow old and gray together.

Note to self:  Marry Me was great.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bduECEfvCng&ab_channel=JenniferLopez (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bduECEfvCng&ab_channel=JenniferLopez)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 19, 2022, 11:49:59 AM
Love Yourself First

It' is not asking one to be selfish and he explains well:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0X0I4YCJEwY&ab_channel=Buddhism (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0X0I4YCJEwY&ab_channel=Buddhism)

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 19, 2022, 01:45:02 AM
Keeping My Sanity

It's early in the morning and rain falls gently outside.  I can hear the whispers of the raindrops hitting the window pane and the rooftops.  You're asleep in someone's bed because you're knocked out.  When you come around, sunlight probably pours thru the window.

I'm sorry I can't be there to wait until you sober up or chauffer you home.  I know you are rested with a smile on your face and a lightness in your heart.  It's a life you enjoy- surrounded by friends with endless toasts until the cheers consumes you to drift off into dreamland.

As my wrinkles and gray hair grows on me, my patience wears thin and standing afar is best for my sanity.  Sweet dream and we'll meet with the sun rise.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 23, 2022, 10:04:06 PM
Me, Myself, and I

For the next week will be me, myself, and I and already I'm getting restless.  Not used to being by myself.  The night seems lonnnnnnnnnnnn nnnnnnng already.  Came home to a quiet house, had dinner ALONE, and now the house is too quiet!!!. Maybe I should take a sleeping pill to help me fall asleep so I don't notice the empty bed and by the time I come to it's already morning. 

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 26, 2022, 12:32:03 AM
Authentic Self

I've reveal much about myself in my journal, in the forums, etc.. that I would wish the floor to swallow me whole before seeing any of you folks in real life  ;D ;D ;D ;D or would claim mistaken identity if ever get pointed out  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

So, I'm not brave at all but I always value the authentic self in people and that gives me courage.

Also night #3 and I'm still getting restless... go fast come fast...



Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 27, 2022, 08:40:21 PM
Chicago Trip & Sister Nuns

I have two sister nuns visiting from another country and they have been in the US studying for the past 3 1/2 years but did not get a chance to explore.  They did not know anyone and the sister nuns they were living with did not take them anywhere.  They'll be leaving the US soon.   I asked my friend if they could come along with us on the trip and she said no problem.

We went to a spa for a few hours before heading downtown.  It was the first time the sisters witness such busy city and the sky scrappers!  It was a cold night and we decided to stay in.  Early the next morning, we walked to mass (it was beautiful) and then explored the downtown area for a bit.  After that, we left to China town for lunch then off to another place then home.

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 06, 2022, 08:33:14 PM
Feeling Nostalgia

I rushed inside the restaurant and the cashier was surprised to see me.  With a smile, I said, "Sir, I would like to cancel my order.  My event has been cancelled."  He rushed thru the door to the kitchen.  While waiting, I glanced around the restaurant and noticed her, my old college friend.  My face lit up and I rushed over, "Hey (name), how wonderful to see you" and gave her a hug.    She introduced me to her table and I said, "Your mom and I are college buddies. "  She aged somewhat, the prominent gray hair and lines on  her face, and in that moment, I remember the young lady of our youth with her vibrant curls and contagious laughter.  I took off my mask and smiles, "Did you ever spoke to (name)?"  She replied, "Oh, we spoke almost everyday." 
Suddenly the cashier returns and I rushed over to get my change (pre-paid) and then I returned and replies, "Tell (name) you saw me" and to which she replies, "It's going to be my gossip story of the day."  She told me about her recent trip to Cali and my city was a stopover for a quick dinner before she continues on her way home.  We are facebook friends but I've been neglecting my facebook account....but it's so wonderful to see her in person.  We chatted for a while and then I left....(didn't want to get ticketed for parking in the BUS lane).

Driving, I thought back to our college days.  She, me, and her..... uncertain future, full of hopes & dreams.  Those were the days......
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 08, 2022, 02:34:44 PM
Note to Self: 

Be sure to stay at Beacon Pointe (hotel) in Duluth MN and explore..
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 19, 2022, 06:26:05 PM
Michigan

Went to a wedding in Michigan, first time visiting that part of the world.  Drove through blueberries and apple orchards, interesting.  The memories of my youth-farm labors picking blueberries came to mind.  I saw myself in those rows and rows of blueberries bushes and knew exactly what the harvest look like.  You just do especially that one summer you eat, breathe blueberries.

The beach there looks so much better than the beach from my side of the world: fine white sands, patches of tall grass on sloping sand hills, boardwalk leading to the beach, beautiful weather, fresh breeze..I could really spend a day or two lounging around.

I love the beach n the ocean... and this beach in Michigan gives me that vibes.



Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 09, 2022, 12:37:29 PM
xav kom wb nyob li no mus tag ib txhis


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8A7rkaqxEgA&ab_channel=BaxterYang (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8A7rkaqxEgA&ab_channel=BaxterYang)




Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 23, 2022, 08:40:34 AM
Tropical

I landed on your shore and went up your mountains, the majestic mountain with hot springs bubbling at it's feet.  I bathe in them and stress fell away.  You nourish my soul.  Walking through the canopy, birds, monkey cries in the distance, rushing rivers, and deep foliage all blends into harmony. 

The Pacific meets the shore and house doted up the hills overlooking cliffs, waves crashing, dolphins circling, and the afternoon rain a predictable fate.  People coming and going and going and coming, the locals & the tourists. 

Every morning a man and wife sells their crafts in the early morning light and a man hoping to sell a tour or two as well.

A world far away not sure when I'll return.  Pura Vida!
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on July 01, 2022, 04:27:04 PM
I need to get a dog, a companion.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on July 11, 2022, 02:24:54 PM
Make Memories

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfQWtwXP7JA&ab_channel=AlexN%C3%B6tzold (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfQWtwXP7JA&ab_channel=AlexN%C3%B6tzold)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on July 21, 2022, 04:04:07 PM
Celebration

Around the corner is a celebration and I've been planning it for awhile:  Food, entertainment, decorations, etc..all in my head before it happens.  Still, hope for the best and will be very busy. So, my decorator can't make it.  Need to problem solve.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on July 25, 2022, 07:42:27 PM
Childhood Friend

Found out a childhood friend has been searching for me for a few years and today is the lucky day.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on August 01, 2022, 08:34:50 AM
A Dream Fulfilled

As mothers, we wish the best for our children, encourage them to pursue their full potential but my daughter you exceeded mines.  Congrats! So proud of you.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 09, 2022, 03:06:05 PM
Life is Blessing

Remember that, Life Is A Blessing.  As life goes by, our circle of friends, relatives, people we know/familiar with become smaller and smaller. It's sad and sometimes I can't cry anymore.

Enjoy the moment you have and don't take such moment for granted. 

Ua tsaug tus hlub, koj hlub kuv os.  I am blessed.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 14, 2022, 03:13:55 PM
Minus One

Hnub no MINUS ONE.  Yua nco/tshuav koj mus tag ib sim.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on October 09, 2022, 10:21:03 PM
Hello from Fresno. My how things have changed… got lost n got lost some more..

I was also in Sacramento and had lunch at Pho Viet on El Camino.  I had the noodle dish w/ eggrolls/char broiled pork/shrimp etc.. and it was good.

Oh yes, visited Folsom Lake nearby and hmmmm...low water level.  Must be a fun place to hang out during high water level.  I'm so thankful for our bigggggg lake here:)

Oh, traffic in Fresno and Sac are a lot more busy then I thought.

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on November 07, 2022, 12:06:13 PM
Less Busy Life

My weekends are booked now until the end of the year.  I hope for a less busy life next year and more family, personal time.  Yes Santorini is calling.  One day I shall see you.  You're on my bucket.

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on December 29, 2022, 02:26:27 PM
Another Loss

Mus zoo koj dablaug thiab hlob.  Life keeps going and going and going until it's gone. But Then You Look at Me and.... TO US. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0516P3uj-I&ab_channel=RicDiOlive (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0516P3uj-I&ab_channel=RicDiOlive)

Lyrics
Laugh and cry
Live and die
Life is a dream we're dreaming

Day by day
I find my way
Look for the soul and the meaning

Then you look at me
And I always see
What I have been searching for
I'm lost as can be
Then you look at me
And I am not lost anymore

People run
Sun to sun
Caught in their lives ever flowing

Once begun
Life goes till it's gone
We have to go where it's going

Then you look at me
And I always see
What I have been searching for
I'm lost as can be
Then you look at me
And I am not lost anymore

And you say you see
When you look at me
The reason you love life so
Though lost I have been
I'll find love again
And life just keeps on running
And life just keeps on running
You look at me and life comes from you
From you



Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on January 19, 2023, 08:03:17 AM
Danger of Excessive Drinking

An uncle passed away recently.  He went to a funeral and drank and drank and drank and had a fall in the restroom, not sure if he hit his head some where or not.  He was rushed to the hospital and passed away shortly after.  I believe he would still be here if not all that drinking. 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 20, 2023, 07:13:33 PM
Life Reflection

Hello Self we've made this far.  In my  20's finding You, starting a family, education & career.  In my 30's, continue w/ family, career, home ownership(s) & some community work.  In my 40's, family and lots of community work.  Now, empty nester and I can slowly let go of community work to focus on ME & him, just the two of us.  What a journey it has been, the up, down, and in between.  I've had my share of bitter & sweet

One thing I've not lost sight of who I am....true to myself, my flaws, strength, weakness.  Yes, more wrinkles are appearing....t hat's OK.  The sparkles in my eyes still shines.

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 23, 2023, 11:16:11 AM
He Clears The Snow

In our area we had a severe storm warning in the afternoon.  Schools were closed and people working 2nd shift were  home.  My car was covered in snow and he cleared them this morning and made sure the sidewalk, path to my car is clear.  That's love in action.   Count my blessings!
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 08, 2023, 09:13:31 PM
Ladies trip this year, Sapa and Halong Bay among other places.  It's a few months from now but it's happening.... 
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on April 24, 2023, 06:52:44 PM
Suzume

I thought this would be a good anime to watch w/ my daughter.  Recently she went through some tough time and I was hoping this movie would bring a little comfort that it's going to be OK.  It sort of went as  I had hope and afterward we gave each other big hugs.  W/tears streaming down my face, I said, "I love you honey."  Being a mom is the toughest job in the entire world.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on May 24, 2023, 10:42:45 PM
Queen of Rock, Gone!

Like minded, thanks Ms. Tina:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mw78mrc6K5A&ab_channel=Audioandlyrics (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mw78mrc6K5A&ab_channel=Audioandlyrics)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on June 29, 2023, 10:54:00 AM
Note To Self

New Hmong singers I came across...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vaRT1XcLPDY&ab_channel=HmoobOfficial (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vaRT1XcLPDY&ab_channel=HmoobOfficial)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-2hjtjqDzk&ab_channel=ZHANGCHUNLAN (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-2hjtjqDzk&ab_channel=ZHANGCHUNLAN)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neGwzekFvlg&ab_channel=HMOOBGUANGDONG (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neGwzekFvlg&ab_channel=HMOOBGUANGDONG)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kj4CZFwXDz8&t=112s&ab_channel=HoaMy (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kj4CZFwXDz8&t=112s&ab_channel=HoaMy)
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on July 11, 2023, 06:42:26 PM
Ib Lub Hnub Qub Yaj Ntsi

Note to Self:
Hnub no ib lub hnub qub yaj ntsi...mus zoo koj nyab :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on July 13, 2023, 09:52:18 AM
Cry Baby

I am such a cry baby.  I was watching Undercover Boss because it's a slow morning and I find myself w/ teary eyes because people shed tears of joy I shed tears of joy.  Thank goodness no one is coming through the door at the moment otherwise I'd get ask, "Are you ok" and it'll be so embarrassing to confess what happened ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: lilly on July 31, 2023, 08:52:45 PM
He Clears The Snow

In our area we had a severe storm warning in the afternoon.  Schools were closed and people working 2nd shift were  home.  My car was covered in snow and he cleared them this morning and made sure the sidewalk, path to my car is clear.  That's love in action.   Count my blessings!

My love language is Acts of service too.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: lilly on July 31, 2023, 08:53:50 PM
Ladies trip this year, Sapa and Halong Bay among other places.  It's a few months from now but it's happening....

How fun!!!  Hope you have lots of fun and laughter on your trip!
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: lilly on July 31, 2023, 08:59:06 PM
Suzume

I thought this would be a good anime to watch w/ my daughter.  Recently she went through some tough time and I was hoping this movie would bring a little comfort that it's going to be OK.  It sort of went as  I had hope and afterward we gave each other big hugs.  W/tears streaming down my face, I said, "I love you honey."  Being a mom is the toughest job in the entire world.

Yes, being a mom is the toughest job in the world.  We feel so much stuff for our kids.  They are our life.  It's so had to watch our kids being sad, etc.  I love no one else more than my kids.  They are #1 always, then it's whoever's else.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on September 29, 2023, 09:27:21 PM
I have been in Vietnam for almost two weeks.  It's amazing! I've seen so many places that took my breath away.  Have you ever seen something so beautiful that you'd want to cry from within your soul?  The limestone rocks of Halong Bay, boat trip thru Trang An, the mountains of Ta Xua, the rice terraces of Mu cang chai, the hotspring of Tram Tau, the beauty of SAPA, all so breathtaking.  Ha Giang's mountain peaks and my goodness the steep road of Ma Pi Leng!  Some moments were scary but over all it wasn't that bad.
Lord I am bless to see with my own eyes the beauty of your creation and along the way i've created lasting memories.  Right now is my last night in Vietnam.  Ues I am in Meo Vac in one of those homestays I hear so much about.  It is quiet now and a feeling of sadness overcome me.  This might be the first and last time I set foot in this place.  I want the magic to remain a little longer. 

Lord thank you for keeping me protected n safe in this journey.  Thank you for allowing me to fulfill one of my bucket lists.  I still have more to go.  Life is beautiful!

In this journey thru Ha Giang, I see poverty in my Hmong people.  Heartbreaking but I must be over reacting as a tourist.  Yes they are poor but they are proud people who does not mind the hard work as evidence of the rice terraces winding up the mountain peaks, where I have to bend my head backward w/ my eyes tracing upward.  The children smiles and love is here among my people.  Lord bless and comfort them.

Now, it's me, the moon and the stillness of the night......unt il...
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on November 27, 2023, 10:51:01 AM
Life is Unpredicatable

Kuv yuav luag tsis pom PH lawm.  Zoo siab tias tseem muaj hnub no.
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on February 01, 2024, 03:08:54 PM

Life keeps going until it's gone, a lyrics from "Then You Looked at Me."  It's still one of my favorite songs from Celine Dion.  I am enjoying life, the simple things in life and doing traveling... trying to go to as many far off places as I can.  The world is beautiful and there's so many places i've yet to see.  I'm looking forward to visiting them.

Now at my age, I learn to be my own complete person and having a man is a luxury.  I will not bind myself to a man who does not see my worth or value in his life. Sorry hon, I do love you but that's the truth.

I'm resilience and my faith in God is the foundation of me.  Life is beautiful...
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 08, 2024, 11:58:22 AM
So I am in my fifties, got married, raised a family, got my own career, raised my children, and now at this point in my life, it's just me and him again. This next chapter of my life, I want to travel the world.  He's not into travelling as much as I am.

In my dream/fantasy, I'd want us to wake up to the sunrise and sunset of Santorini, Norway, South America, Africa, Bali, Maldives, where ever together.. But that's not to be. I've come to accept that.

However, the world is so big fills with amazing places waiting for me to explore.  My journey has only begun....

Note to self: To many beautiful travels...
Title: Re: Life's Milestones
Post by: Dok_Champa on March 13, 2024, 10:50:11 PM
A Vacation from a Vacation

Lobsters, plenty of them, sunshine, ocean breeze that smells like the sea, bridges over the ocean, a mile long, and the one road leading to the very tip of the US and beyond are miles and miles of ocean. What a different world and coming home is wonderful.