My Favorite Winter Fruits..

I love fruits. I think there's nothing better than eating fruits. I pretty much eat everything and I have made sure that my daughters eat fresh fruits every day.

One of the things I miss about living in FL is that I don't get to eat "Nashi" - Japanese pear. We have different kinds of nashi, but they are all crisp and juicy. It's one of JT's favorite fruits when we lived in Hawaii (great thing about living in Hawaii was getting and eatchin Japanese food was no problem.) He couldn't believe how tastey they were when he tried for the first time.

I couldn't wait for the Nashi season in the fall when I was a little girl. I used to watch my mom peeling the skin of nashi for me and my sister. We ate it like eating candy. I loved it! Now I buy pears and peel the skin for my daughters just like my mom did for me.... And they eat it like eating candy!


{nashi}

And another fall/winter fruit I love is Fuji Apple. There are domestic grown Fuji that comes from Washington here in the U.S. or I see ones from New Zealand. But wait until you eat Fuji apple from Japan. They are juicy, sweet (a bit tart, too, if that makes sense) and very crispy. Have you tried it? If you haven't, you should! I get it here in the FL for $1.89 a pound. It wasn't this expensive before, but it's worth it. My husband loves it, so when he goes to grocery shopping, he makes sure to buy them and tells me, "Look I got Fuji!!!" He is so proud when he buys good Fuji apples...


So, what is your favorite fruits for fall and winter??

Christmas Time is Here....

Oh my loves...

Have you started the holiday shopping??? I mean, some of you may have finished it, haven't you?

Me? Ahem... None! Nada. Zero!!! Oh, wait, I did get one of gifts for my Soapy.
But that is it! I'm always the last minute shopper. I usually start buying Christmas gifts around 20th.. then finish all the shopping by 23rd...

It seems though, time flies faster than ever, and I can't believe we're only two weeks away from Christmas. Crazy!! I hope you've been a good girl that Santa rewards you with many nice presents.

This is one of my favorite Christmas commercial. It's the CM for the grocery store I use here in FL. I cry at everything, and this commercial always does it for me.
It's really a heartwarming piece and I hope you enjoy it. Don't cry too much!

A Dream Come True

I've always wanted to start my own business doing the things I love the most; painting, drawing and crafting. I'm an artist at heart, but to tell you the truth, I didn't know where to start or how to begin my career as an artist because I was afraid to even consider it. I think I was afraid to hear from other people that I wouldn't make it or your dream's not a dream.

But I did it!!! After 6 months of planning and designing with the help from friends, I finally opened my first store!!! If you get a chance, please visit and look around - here.

Right now, I'm only displaying the canvas art, but I will be creating more artwork including water color painting and pop art using photography. All of my artwork will be created by hand and made to order!!! I'm still nervous, but I hope I can make many people happy giving the beautiful creation.

I want to thank Dionne for always cheering me on and making me believe I could do this. I am forever grateful!!!

Elizabeth, thank you so much for your kindness and love you've showen me! Thank you so much!!

And to all of you who have supported my blog - I know I haven't been doing a good job of posting new entries, but I hope I can get back on track and share my life and new adventure with you!!!

Wish me luck!!!

xoxo

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

I'm thankful for my family...

I'm thankful for my friends...

I'm thankful for my life...

And I'm thankful for all of you!!!!

Thank you so much for your friendship.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and now let's eat!!!!

xoxo

The Worst Soccer Mom

No, I'm not talking about me. But I realize there are plenty of scary soccer moms out there.

Last Saturday was Ju Ju's last soccer game for the season (Fall). Believe it or not, I had enjoyed waking up in the early morning every Saturday, driving her to the game with her little sister Soapy and chatting up with other moms and kids. So, we're very excited and yet a little bit sad that it was her last game.

I don't know why, but when we got to the field, we only had only 4 players including Ju Ju on her team, the Eagle. The other team, the Tigers had all the kids had showed up. The coaches from both teams talked and they decided to allow Ju Ju's coach's step-daughter to play for the Eagle as a backup. The problem was the step-daughter was a two years older than the rest of the kids.

As soon as the whistle blew, one of moms from the Tiger started yelling, "why is she playing? She is bigger than the other kids. It's not fair! It's not fair!" And she was getting louder and louder. And she happened to be the wife of one of Tiger's coaches. While her husband ingored her ranting, she started complaining to the other coach for the Tiger. The coach said, "If we thought it would be a problem, I wouldn't have allowed her to play. It should be fine." She finally got quiet when the girl (coach's step daughter) scored a goal.

"................................"

That's when the Hell broke loose. The mom stood up, pointing finger and yelling, "It's not fair. That point shouldn't be counted. Why do we care about the other team not having enough kids. It's not our problem, it's their problem!!"

Now, I'm getting pissed off listening to her. Then she said, "I want to see how the other team would feel if they lost the game becaus we had an older player against them." Seriously, I was almost went up to her and said, "Are you really saying this? After all these months we're playing together, having good times, are you really saying that you don't give a shit about the other kids as long as your kid's team wins?" Because I can proudly say that Ju Ju's team won the game only once out of 9 games. But Ju Ju and her teammates kept on playing with a huge smile on their faces. We all know what it's like to lose because we never won the games except one time. But they don't care because they love playing soccer regardless. I mean, we always talk to our kids that the game is not about losing or winning, but having fun, but this woman completely do the opposite. Granted, our coach probably should have told the daughter not to score, but help the Eagles turning their ball, etc. But the woman didn't need to act the way she did.

Moreover, the husband of the mom - the coach. He wasn't even saying anything - he should be embarrased the way his wife was acting. When the first half ended, she dashed to the field ref and her husband to do something while the rest of the parents were looking at her thinking, "What the hell is your problem, woman?"

Ju Ju's coach finally said, "I'm sorry, we have no problem playing with four kids. I was only concerned about them not getting any break, but they will be fine. I didn't mean to cause any problem - sorry about that.." That's when I pleaded with tears in my eyes, "YES!! The Eagles are fine with four players. We only want to play and have fun. Come on, stop this. Let's have a good time, PLEASE!!!" I had enough with this woman who was ruining our last game by screaming and yelling in front of our kids and other parents. It was very sad and it really hurt my feeling to see that the coach had to apologize like that.

JT was just listening to all that was going on quietly, but finally opened his mouth to the ranting mom, "STOP CRYING LIKE A BABY!!!" Oh, how much I love my husband.

The head coach of the league finally showed up and talked to the coaches, and the mom. She was still ranting when he said, "Well, but we can't play with only 4 kids agaist each others and have the rest of the kids watching the game at the sideline. We need at least 5 players. That was the only solution at the time. Now, how do we solve this problem - and the answer is to have one player from the Tigers." That's when one of the dads said, "C will play for the Eagles.." Apparently he was talking to his daughter C who goes to the same school as Ju Ju while this ugliness was going down that maybe she could help the Eagles by playing for them. Before we knew it, C changed her uniform to the Eagle's color and ran to Ju Ju. The dad said, "C, make sure you run to the other goal, okay? Don't kick the ball to the Tigar!" and she smiled and the game resumed. I cried because it was such a sweet moment. C knew that the she's in the losing team (because you know, the Eagles is realy weak. LOL) and wouldn't win the last game, but she showed everyone that it's not about winning or losing, but having fun. And I thank her and the dad for showing what a true compassion and sportsmiship is all about.

When the game was over, The Eagles lost again to the Tigers 3-4. Ju Ju scored two goals. At the end of the game, the ref came up to me and JT and pointed to Ju JU and said, "The player of the game.." He smiled and winked at us and left the field.

JT and I are so proud of Ju Ju who never complained about losing or never taking a break. She really loves playing soccer. She can't wait to play for the next season coming January. And I am praying to God that I will never see that mom's face again, but I know she'll be there...

Have you seen any scary stage mom before???

Bonfire

Yes, I'm still alive. I have been absent because you know the lame excuse I always use - yes, I've been busy. And because there are so many things to talk about, I don't even know where to start. When my brain goes blank (not because there's nothing to talk about, but because I want to talk about everything, all at once), I choose to talk about music.



I used to be blindedly in love with Stephen Jenkins from Third Eye Blind. Do you remember him and his band? Right now, I'm in love with one of their songs from the new album that came out past summer after so many years of silence. It is called "Bonfire" - this song is beautiful!

When I think about bonfire, I think of my younger years in Japan during summer vacation or being on the beach of Hawaii... There is something about bonfire that always bring out good memories in my life and this song just does that... Awe I love this song...

My Little Star Player...

This is my daughter Ju Ju. She's been playing soccer since September and she got the first medal in her team for being a great team player. Her team "Eagles" has not won any game, but Ju Ju always tries her best. Actually, she's the only one who scores goal (well, actually two other girls have scored one goal each). The first time they played, their team lost the game against Tigers 1-6. The second time they played, Eagles lost against Tigers 2-6. Third game, they lost again to Tigers 2-5. Fourth game, they lost again to Tigers 3-6. Then last time, again they lost 4-6 of which Ju Ju scored all four goals and most of the goals in the past for her team.

She always gets disappointed that her team hasn't won the game and she tell me, "Mama, my team will never going to win.." - but then, I tell her, "Remember what did your coach say?" And she answers, "It's not about winning or losing, it's about having fun!!" with a HUGE smile on her face.

She honestly tells me playing soccer has been the best thing she's ever done in her life, and that she can't stop thinking about the next game after the game. Sometimes, she tries to picture herself playing well in her head when she goest to sleep. She really loves it.

I never imagined that I would wake up early on Saturday morning being a soccer mom, but I truly enjoy getting up and watch my daughter play with her friends. Her coach is a great person and I'm grateful that he's taught her something that's very important in her life: patience and endurance.

I love my daughter.... I'm proud of her...

Go Ju Ju! Go Eagles! Let's win this Saturday!

My Little Sunshine...

I just want to squeeze her...

I Turned 36, But I Am Young At Heart

First thing first, thank you so much for all of your well wishes about my mom!! She's doing better and trying to get better back in Tokyo, Japan. She goes to physical therapy twice a week, and dialysis three times a week for four hours which have been tough on her body, but she's doing it to live. I used to tell her, "Don't live your life to do dialysis, but do it to live." She's optimistic and I hope she will be okay again soon.

So, it's been a hectic week for me and there are several reasons for it.

*My lovely sister was visiting us for five days after 12 days of business trip in Paris and NY. She got here last week Friday and we had such lovely stay. Good food, shopping and catching up with stories - I was soo happy she was here, but more so for my girls. Ju Ju and Soapy wouldn't leave her alone and they also ended up sleeping with my sister on the same bed..

* JT and I left our girls with my sister on Saturday night for my little birthday party. It wasn't like last year's 35th birthday; I didn't want a big party. So I went out with JT, his youngest brother and two of my BFF here in Florida. I had many glasses of vodka and pineapple and danced to great music, but I got sick in the car on the way home. Apparently, Ju Ju found me half naked in the bathroom sleeping, but I don't remember because I woke up in my bed with pearl necklace still around my neck.

* I celebrated my birthday again on Sunday evening with JT's family - My sister joined and we had a very heart warming dinner together. I love family. Family is number 1.

* Oct 12th was my birthday and I took a day off from work - fabulous!!!! JT took us to my favorite Japanese rstaurant that night and we had "shrimp tempra udon" and ton of sushi and rolls - oh they were delicious and the owner of the restaurant treated us with Japanese deserts :) I love deserts..

* My sister left us the next morning - it was very hard for me to say good bye. She is my best friend. She told me, "Why don't you move back to Hawaii?" - I miss her already...

In conclusion, it was very crazy week for me and my family, but it was one of my happinest week in a long time. I laughed a lot and my daughters got to know their auntie a little better. All I wanted for my birthday was my family and I got the perfect gift because I had my sister. I'm 36, but I still feel like I'm in my 20's. I don't know if it's a good thing or bad, but I feel a lot younger than before. I think I'm rebeling against time and aging. Do you feel younger or older after your birthday??

Have a sweet weekend, beautiful!!!

xoxo

Your Prayer For My Mom

I've had some tough days for the past week or so. I found out from my dad that my mother was in the hospital because of her condition which she has renal failure (kidney failure). Many of my blogging friends already know that she's been on dialysis for more than 9 years now. I've cried so much for the past 9 days, it's not even funny. The thing is when I'm with my daughters, I forget that my mom is sick - it's the strength of love. My kids get me through very sad and most difficult days... Or going to see Ju Ju play soccer or me being a backup player for my brother-in-law's kickball team and played for the first time since elementary school last week. These little things can temporary, but surely have escaped me from being scared about my mom.

But it gets tough when I go to bed; when I don't have to be the strong mom for my girls; when I don't have to put a brave smile on my face. I can't stop thinking about the worst thing that could happen to my mom and I haven't had a good night sleep. The fear of losing her is tremendous. I'm very scared. It's been very scary nights for me. Every time when I hear my cell phone ring, I think for a second, "Is this the call?" -- well, usually it's JT or my friends, but my heart would skip a bit...

Thank goodness, my mom is home now and resting. When I talked to her yesterday, she's doing better and sounded like her usual self - very cheerful and full of love. Again, she was the one telling me not to worry and everything is going to be fine, when I should be the one telling her she'll be fine - I was crying again like a baby and she said in Japanese, "Aww my baby, Maki-chan. Don't be sad, I'm fine, don't worry... "

My dad, on the other hand, is a very honest man. He wouldn't lie to me. So he did tell me it was very scary that he had to call ambulance at 3 in the morning and bringing her to the ER. He told me she's okay now, but he needs to stay by my mom's side for a while..

So, if I could ask you a little bit of help, a favor, to see if you could pray for my mom... It would mean so much to me. I know the power of prayer - I know it works... So if I could ask you your five seconds or ten seconds, please think about my mama - the person who means everything to me because I can't lose her now...

Oh There Are So Many Things, But Never Enough Time w/ Two New Kittens

Howdy!! How have you been??? I've been busy as always and things are busier than ever... It seems there are so many things to do and never enough time.

Here's the rundown of what's been going on in Maki's world for the past week.

1. Julia started soccer - She's so great at it, I can't believe it's her first time being in the team. She's got some talent.

2. I am a soccer mom now. You know, the one cheers on her kid during practice and the game, screaming and telling her how to kick the ball from the sideline.. Yes, that's me.

3. JT's been playing softball - and he's enjoying it. His younger brother has been playing softball for the past several months and I was hoping JT would play, too. Now JT's work started their own team and he's in it. We've been going to his practices together and watch several games too. Truth is as JT admits it, his team sucks and needs improvement A LOT, but the players are all enjoying it. BTW, JT is pretty good at it and he looks amazing in the uniform. Also, the girls are so happy every time when it's their daddy's turn to hit the ball.

4. Like I've said in August, we have fianlly adopted two little kittens. Initially we planned to adopt only one kitty. When we went to the animal shelter, there are literary over 30 kittens and cats waiting to go to a happy home. I was crying like a baby.. I've had six cats in my life and three have died, so I was very wary about getting another one. It was very painful experiences to lose my cats, so I didn't want to go through with it. But like I said bfore, the girls wanted to have kittie for over a year or so, JT was encounraging me every single day for the past several months. Anyway, I finally decided that the girls deserve to have a kittie, so we went back to the shelter and returned home with two kittens instead of one.

The kitties are still small and have two more weeks to get neutered. I'm sorry no photos yet - they are still trying to adjust to their new home and we're trying to give them some space. Their names are Ruddish (girl) and Firefly (boy) - they are litter mate (they are brother and sisiter) and the people at the shlter gave their name. Ju Ju wants to keep their name, but Soapy wants to change it to Princess and Star.. We're still going back and forth with it, but hopefully soon we can settle with the real names.

I'll talk about the day we adopted the kittens in later post. I really want to dedicate the post to all the dogs and cats who are living in the shelters all over the country.... They really need a happy home. In two weeks, I will go back to the shelter with the kitties to get them neutered and will formally adopt them. I am thinking about taking the pictures of all the kittens and adult cats who are in the shelter and post them with their name on it... They are so cute and they will break you heart. I wish I could adopt all of them.

I hope all is well with you, sweetness...

xoxo

Have A Dreamy Week!!!

I talked about Ju Ju starting kindergarten and it's been almost a month since her first day at school. she's enjoyed learning new things and making new friends. Before Ju Ju started school, I told myself that I anted to be a very active parent with her school and try to participate as many school events as possible. I though it would be good for my daughter, but also good for me, too. I had always wanted to be an in-class volunteer, so that's what I requested when the teacher asked the parents in writing what we could do to help her with the class work..

A week later, one of Ju Ju's classmate's mother called me. She said she and I were the only ones who said "yes" to the in-class volunteering. She asked me if I was still intersted in helping the teacher in the class. I was very ecstatic.

So, for the past two weeks I have gone to Ju Ju's class from 8:30am ~ 10:30am on Thursday. I help Ju Ju's teacher with many things from preparing class material to watching the students to do class work. And I must admit, I enjoy a lot. Those little ones are precious!! They are so cute and innocent, respectful and still eager to learn. They make me smile.. I think Ju Ju is fortunate to have such great classmates. I can't wait to go back there on Thursday again.

********




By the way, I saw this clip on my sister's facebook. She found it somewhere else and posted on her page. After seeing this puppy, I had to steal it from my sister and post it on here. Is this puppy cute?? I mean, I can't stand it. I want this dog!!!

***********



JT and I finally saw the movie "State of Play" the other night. And I am telling you, it was a great movie!!! JT and I've seen many movies on Demand lately and we've been lucky that all the movies we saw have been great. But this film had so many twist and I truly enjoyed it. Russel Crowe was great as always, Ben Affleck played a role that's a little different from previous roles and Rachel McAdams was cute. Side note: I think she is one of women who looks better in brunette than blond.
What do you think? Am I right???

OR

Anyway, I give this movie two thumbs up, way up!!! Thanks Jess!

I hope you had a lovely weekend - Have a beautiful week!!!!

My Mom Deserves Something So Precious...

Oh, I haven't done this in a while. But Kat is one of my favorite persons on blogsphere and I know I always do her assignment when I'm feeling down. Somehow, when I see her prompts, they make me smile and lift my spirit...

Today, I picked her prompt #1: If You Give A Mom A Moment...

{If You Give A Mom A Moment...}

If I could, I will give my mom a moment to be with my daughters... A moment that she hasn't had for over two years.

A moment that she can sit on the couch and watch Ju Ju and Soapy sing in front of her.

A moment that she can holds my daughters hands and walk around the lake..

A moment that she can talk to Ju Ju and Soapy in Japanese even though they wouldn't understand it.

A moment that she wants so desperately desire, but it seems I can't give...

Many of you know that my mom is on dialysis, so she hates flying, especially from Tokyo to Florida is such long hours. I don't want to say we're struggling, but because JT losing job last year right before Christmas (for 3 months he was out of job) and JT became sick during Easter weekend, we have had tough time with our finances since. We haven't been able to fly back to Hawaii which is a LOT closer to Japan. We couldn't even fly back to one of my best friends' wedding in September. Therefore, I haven't seen my mother for more than two years.

We do talk every day on the phone, and Ju Ju talks to my mother in Japanese. My mom is just happy to hear her first granddaughter's voice and she's very upbeat. But I'm very sad. I know it's like a broken record, talking about her and how much I miss her over and over again in my posts, but I do miss her.

I miss watching my mom spending time with my daughters. I miss every things that I can't share with my mom because she is such a beautiful person who can give so much to my girls... She deserves to see my girls while they are small and cute, running around like tiny bugs. I'm disappointed in myself that I haven't been able to bring the girls closer to my mom.

But, I hope my dad and my mom can fly here together soon - that would be nice...

The Last Day of Your Life

It all started this morning when I heard the news about the missing Yale student's body being found in the wall at the basement of school laboratory. I get really scared and nervous when I hear about freaky murders or accidents on news. It really makes me think and wonder how I wll die.

Funny thing is, that's all we talked about when I was at work today with the clients, my boss and I. The truth is, no matter how hard we try, there is nothing we can do to change our fate. When the time comes, that's it. And it scares me. I'm not so afraid of dying, but I know I'm afraid of not knowing how I die.

Then I was reading Women's Journal and it featured an article about phobia; what's healthy fear and what's unhealthy fear. I think having fear is a good thing; it alarts you and makes you think before you act - it's like a defense system. But if the fear prevents you from having a normal activity, then it becomes a problem.

Anyway, today was the day I thought about my life - the end of my life to be exact. Do you have any fear, darlings? Are you afraid of dying?

*****

Also, I want to pay a tribute to Patric Swayze who just passed away this evening at the age of 57. Many people loved him in Dirty Dancing (I do admit he could dance!!!). Two of my favorite movies that he was in it were "The Outsiders" and "Ghost" - He was so great it these movies.. I am really sad that he's died - He was definitely one of my idols when I was a young girl.

Rest in Peace, Patrick.....

Surprise Birthday Cake & Movie Review

Hello Dolls! I hope you're having a fabulous Sunday!

I wanted to let you know that the surprise visit to JT's work on Friday night was a sucess! Kinda...

I was working in the afternoon - early evening, so JT's mother brought Ju Ju and Soapy to her house and they made a cake for JT. They decorated so cute and the girls did such a great job. And I'm sorry, I didn't take the pictures. Ahem... Sorry, I can be dumb at times. But everybody forgot to bring the camera, even his mom - I think we were all too nervous and excited to surprise him and all our minds were on the cake! LOL. However, the guys sitting next to our table who happened to be regulars at the bar had camera and one of the guys offered to take the photos for us. JT's brother gave his email, so we may be gettng them in the email.

Anyway, JT's shift starts from 6pm to 2am. I decided to go to his work when the dinner rush is over which is usually around 10pm, so that we wouldn't interfere too much with all the people who work there.

So Friday, JT left the house at 5:45pm as usual. Remember I told you about Ju Ju's mouth slipped about surprising him? So, he was susupicious that we might show up. But I played it cool and told him that we'll see him when he comes home. He called us at 8pm when I was bathing the girls. Now he was beginning to believe that there might not be a surprise for him at work. Then he calls again around 9:30pm. I said I was busy taking care of the girls. I was actually busy getting ready to go out because his mom was supposed to pick us up to bring the cake at 9:45pm.

I called JT's brother and he was on his way to the bar JT works at. Mom in law came a little past 9:45pm and we finally headed there. Oh my goodness, I was getting very very excited and kind of nervous at the same time. Once we arrived at the entrance, the hostess who knew about the whole thing and the manager who also knew about it came outside and we finalized our plan. The hostess was telling me that JT was keep looking outside from the window, acting like he knew something was up. She said, "Does he know you guys were coming? Because he wouldn't stop looking and I was like, oh my god, he's gonna find out - he made me so nervous!"

So, the manager told me that he's gonna tell my husband to help him doing some stuff in the back, so that he wouldn't see us walking in. But here is the thing, JT's brother had already walked in and saying hello to all the people in the bar. I was so hoping JT didn't see his brother.

The hostess brought us to our table and everybody in the bar saw the birthday cake and they all started to cheer. We sat down and waited for the manager to bring JT.... And there he was, all confused and puzzled seeing his two daughters, mother, brother and me and several friends waiting for him. And the next thing we know, everybody who works with him surrounded the table and started singing Happy Birthday and then all the patrons at the bar were singing too!!!

JT and his brother were standing next to each other and put arms around each other's shoulder and huge smiles on their faces - It was such a beautiful scene. I'm so grateful that JT's co-workers and managers were all so kind and nice people. JT really enjoy working with them.

After the song, JT's brother cut the cake and we all ate it. We also had some cocktails and beers and we really had an awesome time. Too bad, JT had to work. Hehe. By the time everything was done, it was already past midnight. Yeeess, it was way past the bed time for Ju Ju and Soapy. So we all decided to go home. Oh I hope it was a good birthday for my hubby and I hope he was happy to see everybody, even though it was at his work (cause he begged me not to come.. LOL.) Happy birthday JT and I want to thank everyone who helped me plan this little get together. Thank you soo much!

****

Oh, yes, I wanted to talk about the movie JT and I saw on Demand last week. "I love you, Man" - It was hilarious!!! Some parts were kind of whatever, but Paul Rudd and Jason Seigal were awesome. I laughed through most of Paul Rudd's cheesiness. JT's favorite guy was Barry (John Favreau) - He couldn't stop laughin every time Barry shows up and said something mean. One scene where Barry said something at the engagement party, JT keep rewinding the part over and over again and I saw tears overflowing his eyes because he laughed so hard. I hadn't seen him laughing at movie like that in a long tme. Also, we liked the fact that Rush was featured in the movie. JT and I love Rush. I think this is not a movie only men enjoy, but girls can enjoy sitting next to their men. So I must say, we both liked the movie and give two thumbs up! BTW, do you believe there is man like Peter (Paul Rudd) who doesn't have guy friends, but great with girlfriends????

***

Next, JT and I also saw "Body of Lies" last week. I'm always fascinated with all these films about CIA/FBI/Military Special Forces. I will never know what realy is going on in their worlds. I think that's why I'm intrigued by it. Can you imagine what it's like to be a field officer for CIA, especially working in Middle East? It's so cool, but you put your life on the line to get the bad guys and protect your own country.

One of my English teacher back in Hawaii once told me his younger sister married to a CIA agent. She really didn't know anything about his job until he retired from the postion. Intereting! Anyway, if you're interested in working for CIA, there are many postions that are available.

I also give this movie two thumbs up!!

What have been your favorite movies lately? Jess over at Everyday Adventure recommended the film "State of Play" which JT and I have been wanting to see, so we're definitely going to sit on the couch with popcorn and order it on Demand.

Now we're off to Sunday dinner! Enjoy the rest of your day!

My Husband's Birthday....

We all know that today is a very sad day for many, many people. I can't believe it's been eight years since that fateful morning on September 11...

But I also know it's a very important day for me and my family. It's JT's 44th birthday!!! He was there in NJ when the attacks happened and his birthday hasn't been the same since. But I thought it's time for him to be happy again on his birthday.

I am planning a very tiny surprise visit to his work and bring a birthday cake. He chose to work instead of celebrating his birthday, but I thought it would be nice to bring him a cake and sing him a happy birthday. I hope it works out because our Ju Ju kind of slipped and said, "Daddy, do you want to be surprised on your birthday??" Oh man, JT was laughing and begged me not to come.

But I already asked his manager and he okayed me. So off I go!!

I know we will forever remember what happened that morning of September 11, but I also want my husband to know that he is loved and his birthday is to be celebrated.

Happy Birthday my love!!!! I love you!

xoxo

My New Life - New Opportunity

Well, well, well. Hello everyone - How have you been? I'm alive and well -- just super busy with so many new things going on. I haven't posted in almost three weeks, that's a record! I missed you all of you and I'm glad I am back on here.

Anyway, let's see.. where do I start.... Okay, I will list all the things that's been going on with my life.

1. Ju Ju started kindergarten two weeks ago! I will post two short video clips from the first day of school this week. Oh my, I was so nervous, maybe more nervous than Ju Ju! She has school uniform, so that helps a lot in the morning. She gets to wear light blue, navy or white polo shirt and navy or khaki scort, skirts, shorts or long pants. I must admit she's SUPER cute in them! I can't wait to share many happy and exciting stories about her life in school!

2. Just being busy. I'm back to work after taking several weeks off. But I must say, I'm so hating it. I can't stand it anymore. I'm thinking about giving my boss a notice soon that I will be leaving the job on December 31. I'm grateful that I have this job, but I can't stand some of my co-workers. They depress me. I know I need to grow up, but having a few weeks off from work totally made me feel so free. I'm not talking about not having a job. I'm talking about being in the enviroment that brings me down emotionally. So I've made up my mind that I'm going to quit. I hope I can follow through..


3. Another "just being busy" , but this is because of my new project. And let me introduce my business logo to you all for the first time! Let the drum roll...

"Barefoot Chic Design & Co." -- do you like it? Do you like it???? It took me almost a month for me to decide on this logo with the help of a friend who is also designing my business website. I'm really excited about it, but also very nervous at the same time... It's been alway my dream to start my own business, however, I know things can get tough at times. I just hope that I have enough courage to move forward and do the things I love the most; painting and handcrafting.. I hope you'll cheer me on because I love you and your voice have carried me through the most difficult times in my life before... I hope it's okay to counting on you, too...

4. Getting a kitty for Ju Ju and Soapy. They have been wanting to have a kitty since last year. I am a cat person and I've owned six cats in my life; three have died which have made me not wanting to have another can again. It was so tough to see them die and I didn't want to go through ever again. But, when my two girls keep telling me and JT that they want it, how could I say 'No', especially JT who is not a cat person tells me we should get it for them... So, this week or next week, we're going to Humane Society to find a kitty cat. I'm slowly, but surely getting excited about it.

5. Planning JT's birthday. It's coming this week Friday... I hope I can make it special for him.

So, these are the things (not everything) that have consumed me for the past several week. How was your Labor Day weekend, everyone? I hope you're all doing well and I love you!!!!

xoxo

They Are Baaaaaack and They Gave Me A Mean Cold..

Their time in NJ - at Boardwalk by the shore..

Hello Everyone!!!!! Thank you all so much for the lovely comments about my last night alone with JT. We did had a beautiful evening together followed by a nice mini stay at a hotel by the beach. I was a bit surprised when I learned he packed everything for me without my knowledge and hid the laggage in the truck (car). JT knows how to make me happy sometimes. LOL.

Anyway.

The girls are safely back. I was so excited and so happy when I heard the knock on the house door. There, two cute girls holding their teddies and standing with a huge smile on their faces. They cheered, "Mommmmmyyyy! Daddyyyyyyy!!" and ran to us. The grandpa and grandma were all smiley looking at us holding each other as a family again...

BUT. Ju Ju and Soapy were caughng and having runny nose. Ahem... Do you know what that means? Yep, I got a mean cold from them, too, as a present:)

I was totally in bed, beng miserable. It took me a while to being on my two feet agin - that's why I was away from blogging... Gosh, it was horrible.

But I'm so happy that my girls are home; the house are back to normal as hectic and crazy can be, but full of love!!!

I miss you all and I'm glad to be back to my regular broadcasting as well - I hope you guys are having a fabulous weekend...

xoxo

One More Night..

Two of our lil munchkins are coming back tomorrow afternoon, so JT and I are trying to enjoy our last night alone. We're heading to dinner at my favorite Japanese joint owned by Japanese couple. JT also is taking me to shopping which I'm SO excited about because you know, when you have two kids in tow, you really can't look around and shop except grabbing the dress without looking and pay!!

I must say, our mini vacay/honeymoon was a lot more than we anticipated. JT cooked me breakfast in bed on several occasions. Yeeess I know, I'm lucky. Also, I was able to accomplish many things that I hadn't done in 9 months ever since I started working again. I was able to sit and relax and do what I love the best; visiting all the blogs I love and catching up with all of you. Lieterary, that's all I did - eat, drink and sit in front of my computer and reading everyone's stories. I loved it!!!

Also, JT and I came to realize it's important to have our time alone and really enjoy each other. We told each other no more bringing our kiddies into our marital bed at night and let them sleep with us. I hope we stick to our words - we'll see...

Now we're heading to our last minute trip - JT says it's a surprise, so I'm anxious!!

Have a wonderful evening, everyone!

xoxo

Sneak Peek!!!!

We had a photo session last week for our girls and my new business. Actually, it got postponed three times because of the rain and my girls were about to leave for their summer vacation, so we're so nervous. Ju Ju and Soapy prayed for four days, when we finally had a go, we're so ecstatic!!! It was a beautiful day with gorgeous sunset. I finally got a proof & CD today, so I thought I should share with all of you!

Beth over at Beth Wild Photography did such a wonderful job taking beautiful shots of my girls and my artwork. If you click on her blog, you can see more of her work including our photos. Go check her out!














Anyway, I'm walking towards my dream slowly, but surely - I'm so happy and excited!! My business website should be up and live in two weeks. So stay tuned, my lovelies!!

xoxo

Maki

Target Knows the Right Button to Push!

I had to fill some RX's last week. JT and I usually get our medecines at Walgreen, but JT told me that I should try fill it at Target because he got a letter from our insurance that it might be cheaper. When it comes to prescription, I get very paranoid and nervous, so I told JT, I don't want anything cheap, I want the best ones because I don't want to get sick. He said, "Whether it's Walgreen or Target, they usually give us generic ones, just try it."

So, I went to Target. An hour later, I got the bag and I looked inside.. I must admit, I love the package. They look so cute in the red bottles, much better than the ones JT has from Walgreen, the orange ones. Hehehe.

Really, they are very cute to look at. The description card for the medicine is inserted in between the sticker and the bottle which adds another cute factor. Very creative!

So far, the meds are working fine. I've been feeling nauseated, but that's because I take medicines without food sometimes... When I feel sick, one thing that I want to eat is chilled Cantaloupe. I can eat a whole cantaloupe - juicy slices, so yummy. I'm eating cantaloupe right now as I type this post.

What do you crave for when you're feeling sick?

BTW, I love this song Carpenter's "Close to you" covered by Josefine Cronholm. However, getting this song is impossible. I'm very disappointed about this because it's really pretty....



I hope you are having a great Monday!!!

xoxo
Maki

Have A Sweet Weekend!!!

JT and I were heading to a doctor's appointment this morning when we bumped into a huge car accident. The traffic was horrendous because of people heading to work and the accident happened right off the highway exit. We're running late to our appointments, but accident is accident, there was nothing we could do, but wait for the traffic to clear. I called the doctor's office and they knew about the accident, so they told us not to worry, no rush, just get to the office safely.

Once we passed the accident site, JT and I were talking and cruising along listening to Jack Johnson. JT tried to change the lane when we heard this huge honk behind us. We looked back and this girl in a blue Crossfire flipping bird to us. We're not so sure why she were so mad, but I guess we cut her in. When two lanes opened to three lanes, the same girl gave us another finger as she speds away. I was totally in disbrief. She could be in her late teens ~ early twenties. I understand the accident had caused many people to be late for work or to place they needed to get to, but I didn't need anyone to give us a finger, twice for a minor mistake in a pleasant morning. I was getting real annoyed.

Now, we let her go and minding our own business, we saw that blue Crossfire again in front of us because traffic was slow going and we had caugh up to her. She was speeding so much that she almost hit a car driving in front her because the car slowed down for a red light. She was giving another finger to the black car. I've never seen anything like it. She was honestly VERY unhappy person - I think we all have some sort of road rage quality in us, but it was very uncomfortable watching a person acts like the way she did. She almost ruined my morning, but JT soon changed that by buying me an Iced Grande Latte from Starbucks.

Seriously though, everybody; don't get so upset and angry when you're driving. Nothing good comes out when you road rage. I bet the girl will end up causing an accident someday - if anything, she would be the one to hurt someone and she would have no scratch. I know it.

So let's be happy and drive safely. BTW, what is your plan for this weekend? Anything exciting?

Have a sweet weekend!!!

xoxo
Maki

Mini Honeymoon Day 2

So, it's been two days since Ju Ju and Soapy left for NJ. The house is all quiet and I expect to hear them crying for me late at night or their voices in the afternoon, but I don't. It's just weird feeling for not having them around for such a long period of time.

The night they arrived in NJ, they called us to say good night and to tell us that they miss their daddy and mommy. They promised they'll call tomorrow (Wednesday). Well, they didn't!

Me and JT were staring at both of our cell phones and house phone past 7pm. JT said, "Okay, I can't take it, I'm gonna call them now.." and tried to call his mom on her cell. "JT, if the girls miss us, they'll call us. Let's wait for them to call.." I said. I cooked Prime Rib with corn and broccoli and baked potato for dinner. It was very nice because we went to buy the steak together and shopped around at the Fresh Market just two of us which we hadn't shopped like that in a long time. We usually busy telling our girls to stay in the cart or stay by us and rushing ourselves to get out the supermarket.

Anyway, after we ate dinner, still no phone calls from NJ. Now, it's me telling JT to call. He called, no answer. We called again after 20 minutes. No answer nor phone call...

We were shocked! Our girls don't miss us..... :( Mommy and daddy are heartbroken.

I guess, the girls are having way too much fun, fun enough to forget to call their mama and daddy. Believe me, I know it is a great thing - we're happy for them. But we want to hear their voice. Girls, please call mommy and daddy!

Also, JT is looking into a hotel in town for us to stay when he has a few days off next week. Apparently it was a little surprised, but I saw him on the computer doing stuff and saw him checking out some nice places.... I am very excited!!!!

The thing is, JT and I have been enjoying our time together a lot more than we have anticipated. We do miss our girls terribly, especially at night, but I must admit I do enjoy time alone with my husband. I was already pregnant with Ju Ju when I married JT, so we never had been alone since our wedding. Granted, we dated two years before getting married, but we're always JT, Maki & Ju Ju, then we added Soapy after three years of marriage.

I think JT and I are discovering each other again - we laugh more and we cuddle more. We are back as a young couple who love to spend time together. Having children do change priority in our lives. We're always busy trying to raise two little adults. I love them to death and my life is not complete without them, but I think JT and I missed many things that are important in our relationship which is to be a husband and a wife, not just daddy and mommy.

One of the things is that I go to bed with JT, only to be awaken by our daughters early in the wee hours, asking me to sleep with them because they're scared. I drag my heavy body and walk them to their room. The right thing to do would be to put them back to bed and head back to our bedroom. But, I get so tired that I end up sleeping in their room, either with Ju Ju or Soapy. I knew we needed to break this bad habit of ours, but I had a very tough time. Ju Ju told me, "Mommy, I'm going to practice to sleep alone when I go to NJ. Are you happy, you can sleep with daddy now!" So, for the past two nights I'm sleeping in bed with JT through out the night - morning, waking up next to him. It's a wonderful feeling. I'm truly enjoying our time together. I'm grateful for JT's mom taking our daughters to the longest summer trip in NJ - I think this will be great for all of us...

Also, I'm so fortunate to have my grandfather who taught me so much while growing up. He's no longer alive, but him surviving that fateful morning 64 yars ago, has shaped who I am. I believe two things so strongly because of him; Love and Peace....

If you're new to my blog and if you missed last year's post, you can read ithere... I miss you, Ojichan, so very much.


Have a great day, everyone!

xoxo

Maki

Say "Hello" To My Little Friend!

Hi Everyone!!! Can you believe it's already August? It's last stretch to the end of summer. I thought we're just talking about welcoming spring, now summer is almost over.....

Anyway, I hope you're all enjoying the summer vacation. My little munchikins are leaving their mommy and daddy for their 10 day summer vacation in a few days. JT is freaking out, actually. I'm a lot more calm about this. I will definitely let you know how our scond honeymoon is going..

Now, I've finally decided on my new digital camaera - I just ordered Lumix by Panasonic. My lil sister and her husband who is a part time photographer both have it and they both love theirs. Also, my dear friend Bakergirl who is also a photograher suggested it. The reason? Leica's lens!!!! I've seen all the photos that my sister has taken, they are absolutely beautiful. The color is simply amazing!!! I'm so excited getting it in the mail and snap away many beautiful things in my life...

Thank you all so much for your lovely comments and suggestions - It truly helped me to study and choose what I really want. Thanks again!





This week's Sunday music choice is "Spotlight" by Jennifer Hudson. It's been my "it" song for awhile and it's my answer tone. I think she has a beautiful voice. If you got true talent, you don't need to win American Idol - she totally proved it!

Hope you'e having a fabulous weekend!
xoxo

Maki

A Second Honeymoon????

Oh my goodness, "Hello!" everyone. It's been a little over week since the last post. How are you doing my love??? I have been VERY busy, seriously busy with many exciting stuff!!!! I really want to share my good news, but it will be another few weeks for me to be able to make it public. I know, I know, I don't mean to be cruel, but my new projects require some work and until they are completed, I can't show exactly what they are. But, I hope you like my new projects! Once they are completed, I must say I'm stepping towards to a new life; a new goal. I'm so excited about this.

Anyway, here is another exciting news, or should I say, bittersweet news. We found out last week that JT's mom is going to take our daughters Ju Ju & Soap to NJ with her for 10 days!!! 10 days!!! They are going to visit bunch of family members who will be renting a beach house on the shore. My girls will get to see and play with their cousins which will be good for them.

JT and I were kind of shocked and didn't know what to do at first because.... We have never been apart from our daughters for more than one day. Yes, for the past five years, we've never been apart - we're all glued to our hips. So, when my mom-in-law broke the news, my mouth was opened for about a minute, couldn't even say a word. JT's stepdad couldn't stop laughing because he told me I looked like I was ready to cry. Ahem.. yeah, it's very hard for me. I don't know what to do when the girls are gone. 10 days. JT's stepdad said, it will definitely be a great experience for the girls to be away from their daddy and mommy, and it will be good for me and JT.

If I think about it, JT and I really haven't been alone, just two of us. Of course, we've gone to dinner and movie dates here and there, but I was already pregnant when JT and I got married, so we really didn't get to enjoy our honeymoon. I have been asking JT what he wants to do and he doesn't even know how to answer to that question. Oh silly man...

So, here is the question: Do you have any suggestion what we should do while the girls are gone?
I definitely want to enjoy alone time and play some sports with him or go to dinner without worry about going home early for the girls. I also can't wait to spend "ME" time without worryin about makind dinner for my girls... But still, I'm going to miss Ju Ju & Soapy. I am afraid that they are not goint to miss their mama... I guess this is something we as parents have to go through, watching the kids grow up.

Anyway, I am looking forward to your suggestions because Maki and JT are still in shock and don't know how to plan our second honeymoon. We need your help!!!

Oh by the way, I was driving on freeway last week and saw this guy on the motorcycle, texting while riding! It was dangerous! Really dangerous! I'd never seen anything like it. I wonder what was so important texting and riding motorcycle on full speed (it was probably like 75 - 80 mph) - it looked like he's done it before, like a piece of cake kinda attitude, but I looked to the right and my eyes opened so wide. Please don't drive and text. If you need to text, make sure wait for a red light or park your car. I must admit, I have done it before, but it's not good. I will be careful.

Okay, so my dear friends, stay tuned on my breaking news in a few weeks. I'm getting so excited!!!

P.S.
Thanks so much everybody for your opinion on camera. Canon is most popular, hands down. I haven't decided yet, but I'm leaning towards Panasonic Lumix. I will let you know when I get a new one!

Another P.S. - I'm going to start writing post in my other private blog again - if you haven't received invitations and want to read about my real personal life, then send me your email. I will send you the invite! Thanks!

Hey, What Is Your Favortie Digital Camera? Plus the worst film I ever saw

I've been shopping around for a new digital camera. My Olympus is getting old and I need to replace it for a better looking one. I've owned PowerShot, CyberShot and Olympus' water registance digital camera.

So, question for you today is, what kind of digital camera are you using, my dearly? Canon, SONY, Nikon or Olympus? I really like Ashton's COOLPIX Touch from Nikon, but it only has 10 mega mix. Then, my cousin just bought a SONY CyberShot Touch. The color was shocking pink and it was really cute! But I found SONY camera has very harsh flush lighting. Canon has great cameras, but not touch screen. I'm just sucker when it comes to gadgets. I can't choose. So I need your help!!! Share you thoughts on your digital camera. What should I get?

Oh by the way, I jsut saw one of the worst films of my life last night.


"Surveillance" it is.

JT had been wanting to see this movie on Demand for the past month or so, because the preview did look interesting. So, we decided to see it (or should I say JT decided). And my verdict - It SUCKED!!! We paid $7 and I want my money back.

There were some parts that were suspenseful and I must admit I got really scared, but plot line was terrible. TERRIBLE.

I think I am getting old, so I don't want to see anything that could cause damage to my heart (like brutal murder scenes and blood ) - and this movie was all about that.

The whole movie didn't make any sense. I hated it. So, if you ever wanted to see this film, don't do it. Wait until it comes on HBO or something for free. This film is not worth a penny. However, this film got 60% (Fresh!) on Rotten Tomatoes which I don't know why... The only thing I learned from this movie is that there are many crazy people out there, so lock your house door and have something close to your bed to protect yourself, just in case. (JT has a bat hidden under the bed.)

On the other hand, JT and I have been watching Jamie Fox's "THE KINGDOM" over and over again for the past few weeks since we saw it for the first time. It is ficitional of course, but I really love this film.

Especially, the actor named Ashraf Barhom who plays Saudi's police/national guard who helps FBI to catch the bad guys was excellent. His acting was better than Jamie Fox. He was truly awesome and he made the film 100 times better.



Also Jennifer Garner was good in it, too. The FBI agent she played was strong - I like strong woman in movies. And Jason Bateman was funny as always. The style of this movie was very casual. Subject is serious, but the movie follows characters like it's following their normal life. It didn't make me feel like watching a Hollywood movie. So, if you don't mind some actions and a little bit of thriller, then watch "The Kingdom" And DO NOT pay to watch "Surveillance" - you'll regret it if you do!

Hope you are having a lovely weekend!

xoxo
Maki

Gratuity Is So Complicated!!!!

Working at a salon teaches me many things that I've never thought about. One thing is tipping. Coming from a country where tipping is not part of the culture, there are times when I get confused. But when it comes to tipping at a salon, unless he or she did a horrible job, I think you should at least give 15% gratuity because they do work for you.

Today, we had a regular client E whom I thought had always tipped my boss B. He is the owner of the salon. When she had checked out, she smiled and said, "Well, B (my boss) just told me he's no longer the owner of the salon, so I guess I have to tip him.." I thought she was joking, but when I asked my other receptionist, she said the client E had never given B gratuity... I thought that was strange or she's being cheap. But I know she isn't the only one who don't give tip to my boss..

So, when I went to my in-law's house for dinner, I told them what happened at the salon and asked them if that's true. My mom-in-law comes to my salon and sees my boss and she always gives him tip. But she told me what client E said was actually true, that in normal circumstances, the owner of any type of business is not expected to get tip. I didn't know that!! Did you know that?

I'm so confused.....

Do you ever have tough time when to tip and when not to tip or how much you should tip; say at a Starbucks or takeout order or.... swimming instructor? Please enlighten this confused Maki here...

Friends Forever...

I talked to one of my BFFs A, back in Hawaii yesterday. Her twin sister who is also my BFF is getting married in September, so we're talking about her wedding and bachelorette party. We hadn't talked to each other in a while, but it didn't seem like it. I think that's what a true friendship really means.

I can say that I don't have many friends. I know a lot of people, but the people I call friends are very limited. I could probably count them with my 10 fingers.

When I talked to A1, we talked about how her sister A2's wedding is going to be our reunion party for all of us who partied hard back in the days. We're all in our mid 30's, not mid 20's in 1999 - 2000. People did party and party hard back then because "OMG, It's Millenium! The world is coming to an end!" - remember???

A1 and A2 were there for me when I went through painful breakups or happy relationships. They were there for me on my wedding day as bridesmaids and stood and supported me when JT and I exchanged the wedding vows.

One of the defining moment of our friendship was one night when we went out with our boyfriends, A1 noticed that I wasn't drinking. She asked me why I was drinking just juice. I said, I just didn't feel like it. She knew that I was lying because there were never times Maki just had juice when we're out partying at bars and clubs. She asked me again if there's anything I want to talk about. So, I brought her to a lady's room and told her that I think I could be pregnant. She screamed for joy, summond the sis A2 and she told me we're getting a pregnancy test kit. We left our significant others at the bar, hopped in A2's car, went to 7 eleven, they bought me the kit and we all went to their house and I took the test. The test came back as positive, the little proof of Ju Ju's presence in my tummy. I told them to keep it secret until I told JT and they did... They are my true friends. And I know we will be friends forever with wrinkles on our faces annd gray hair and all.

When I listend to this song by Cobra Starship "Good Girls Go Bad", I think of my fun times with my friends back in Hawaii. We danced all night long..

Here's to you A1 & A2!!!

I Couldn't Help But....

I am sorry, but I had to post this. Chritian Bale. I know I talk about him way too much of recent. But I can't help it. He is just SOOOOOOOO perfect in my book. These photos come from GQ photo shoot - I bought two June issue of GQ just because he was on the cover. Forgive me, JT..

This face..

This was the cover photo for GQ.

Even when he's not doing anything, he looks sexy. Not fair...

His smile is SOOOOOO cute!

WTF?

Yeah! I want him to shoot me - aim at my heart.. LOL

And then, I have to wish my first Hollywood love a belated Happy Birthday.
Tom turned "47" past Monday. 47!!! He doesn't look it at all.

Happy Birthday, Tom. I love you!!