A beautiful small town

Lobster!

Chloe: 好好味！

Amy: 别顾着吃，先看镜头。

趁太阳下山之前拍几个代表作。好棒了！ 哈哈哈！

相片中的景色让我想起小时候电影中常看到的水上人家。这样的生活多么悠闲！

Note: Rockport, MA

15 minutes drive from Gloucester. Rd 127 N.

Wao Wao! in the WILD Part 1

Whale Watching

Gloucester

May 6, 2006

We began the whale watching tour run by Yankee Fleet from Gloucester at 2:30pm. Again, I underestimated the weather and it was freezing on the boat. About 45 minutes later, the boat took us all the way to the Northern Atlantic Ocean and it was the begin of my firts whale watching on the Ocean.

The first half an hour on the Ocean was not much fun. We saw a few whales about 50 feets away from our boat, very small from far. Couldn't take picture though, too small. When I almost give up, they started to swim towards our boat. One, two, three, four, five, six, seven,... they came in group! Suddenly, I felt like we were in the marine park watching whales presentation. At the same time, a tans of baby dolphins joined the show! They looked like celebrating the whales gathering together with all of us on the boat.

从Gloucester出发，经过四十五分钟的航行，终于看见第一只鲸鱼。距离太远，以肉眼根本看不清楚，何况是我那照相机的功能并不怎么专业。半个小时后，我开始冻得半死，有点后悔付了41美元，才看那几只‘小鲸鱼’，很不划算。

就在这时，船上的人纷纷嚷了起来。有的向左边跑，有的向右边跑，个个兴奋得大喊。看，鲸鱼们都向我们这边游过来了！ 好大的一群鲸鱼啊！ 我也兴奋得抓紧相机不停地按下快门，尽量捕抓每一个片刻。

就在当时，阳光也从云端里探出头来和我们一起分享着难得的一刻。阳光照射在海面上，令整个画面显得更精彩撼人！ 但也因此，要在强烈的阳光下通过荧幕猎取景物变得特别困难， 我只好关上荧幕，使用原始的反光镜照摄法。 习惯了先进的技术，太久没有用反光镜，的确有点困难。 但效果总算不错，可喜可贺！ 有没有像杂志里专业的相片？ 哈哈！

以我这相机有限的功能，要‘捕抓’ 鲸鱼也还不简单哦！

视力被阳光困扰时，我只好把镜头朝向海欧聚集的海面快而准的‘卡擦卡擦’按个不停。

http://www.gohawaii.com/stories/stories.html?WT.mc_id=bn_home01

Great Meadows National Wildlife, Concord

Great weather + Breathtaking scenery = fabulous day!

It's a perfect day for a relaxing walk outdoor.

The busy work life and humid weather in Malaysia make me exhausted. I'm gratitude for having a chance to 'escape' from the 'concrete jungle', entering to a totally different lifestyle and being thankful for the gift of natural.

Mr. Lonely

Lonely.. Oh Mr. Lonely...

I have nobody.. I have myself...

I found only ONE lion in Franklin Park Zoo in Dorchester, MA.

One of the 山猪 slept like dying. Another one tried to kick him up.

"hey, hurry up if u want to take pic, I'm going off soon."

Spring 花开的季节

春天花会开，鸟儿自由自在...

春风轻轻揉揉得抚摸着湖水，好让它也一快儿来迎接花开的季节。

你看蔚蓝的天空和清澈的湖水把花儿衬托得更为动人。

一场春雨，为大地万物带来生机。青青草地上，鲜艳夺目的小花儿不经让我停下脚步，享受漫漫旅途中意外的惊喜。

童年

是否还记得，小时候我们喜欢玩什么？ 这个吗？
这个吗？
还是这个？

长大以后，天真烂漫的岁月渐渐远去。

你是否还记得，童年时简单的快乐？

do do do... hair do!

我变，我变，我变变变 。。。

This fellow wanted to chat with my Brazilian friend, that's why he spent a long time to do our hair. Though he is only a salesperson for the hair straighthener but he did like hairstylish.

See my new hair style!

The Straighthener is like a magic stick, it can straighthen ur hair and make nice curls as well! Very tempting, but cost $200 for one, too expensive! Anyhow, these big curls do not suite me... I'm more comfortable with my straight hair.

Doggies

Who is this? Fierce huuh?

He is Sammy! They said he has Yellow and Blue eyes, but I think it's White!

This siberian Husky doesn't look friendly but he like people to pat him. Anyway, he never bite me :)

See, both fighthing for a ball because they both want attention! The black one is Trooper, we used to call him Troopy. He loves people to pat him...but when Sammy saw it, he would get jealous. His jealousy is bit scary, most of the times he would bark when he wants us to pat him insteed of Troopy.

Oh ya, something that two thumbs up is Troopy know how to open the door though it's close oh!

Life is vulnerable

I was so shock to know about your dad has passed away last two week. It's unbelievable!

In my memories, he is still strong and healthy. When is the last time I see him? It could be at least 3 or 4 years ago. I remember he bought me tans of durians when I visited him. After that, I don't have chance to visit him... never, anymore...

Life is so short and vulnerable... If you want to do something, do it without delay; if you care about someone, let him/her know immediately; if you think you could wait for the chances, you better aware that 'you need to swim out for the ship'...

To all my friends: I love you... always take care!!

Options 1, 2, 3

I started this blog probably one or two month before my departure to US. What was the reason I created this blog? I can't really remember. Dai lou is the one who recommended me to this blog. Did I told you why do I want my own blog?

I think I tried to record every single moment that happened to me here: My feelings, up and down, my challenges, my new friends,...

But I didn't really do it regularly. It makes me a little hard to trace back what happened within these few months in US.

And now, it's close to the time for me to make decision for the coming directions. Should I extend my program? Should I go back to Malaysia to start again my career? Or should I become holiday maker in UK for another two years?

I'm always thinking, why this and not that and why that and not this? If I already make you confuse at this point, I think you can turn off this screen and proceed to something more rigid. Because I also confuse when I'm writting...

Well, there are always some reasons, of course, that drives me here, and next directions... maybe you can give me some comments.

Below are a few options :

1) Extend another 6, 9, or 12 months as an au pair in US

*Since the begining of my program, I heard about thousand of cases and failure examples of this so called 'cultural exchange'. I feel sorry for some of the girls who have been treated as 'Indon maid' in Malaysia. I was also once felt bad about the unfortunate that happenned to my friends, those I know and I care. Though I'm much fortunate to be with my host family, I'm little afraid about the reality - nothing is eternal!

Therefore, I am reluctant to go to a new family which is full of unexpectation.

2) Apply Holiday makers visa (2 years) work and travel in UK

* The reasons is there's an age limit. One must be below 31 to be eligibled for this visa. I hope to travel to Europes again. I still have not realize my 'Tulip field dream'. The more I see, the more i want to see. But too bad, money not enough! Earning pounds are reasonably easier for me to realize my dreams than earning Ringgit Malaysia. Agree?

3) Go back to Malaysia

*Oh my! My country! Chinese proverb said "又爱又恨 " . I miss the people that I cares over there, I miss my little nephews and nieces (though they are no longer 'little'), I miss the days out looking for delicious foods, pasar malam,... But I knew a reality: Everone has his/ her own life going on, me too, should carry on my own life.

So what about career? uhhh, my career path are almost bending here and there like a snake curling on the tree, look calm but swinging on the air. em..some who denied my decision to come US at that moment might say: "see, told you don't go and u was so stubborn." ;P

This time, when I go back, I'm no longer 25, no longer in the good market value age...damn shit lor! So, start a child care business as discussed with sister before I came? Wao!! look like lots of commitment. Am I ready for that? I have to sacrify most of my times (weekends or even holidays) to fight with the risks!

Or should I go for my interest? I should probably call Ah Sai to find out if press mind to hire a fresh entry of age 27...

Goodbye Winter!!

The weather was so good on April 1. We couldn't wait to take out the coat and headed to the beach!

We are here, Hampton beach!

Doggies also like to walk on the beach!

Today's feeling

I'm listening to 988 online, love the songs broadcast at night (oh, night time in M'sia). Chinese songs always make me 'feel' and wanted to write something.

But so shame to say that my English is still 'tak boleh' after half an a year in US. It doesn't improve much, only learnt some American's terminologies... for example, instead of saying handsome, they would say cute, hot, sweet,... em, what else? uh, some bad words!! hahaa....

I always learn some bad words from my 'international friends'.. bad words seems like easier to memorise than good words... hahahaa...

Wanna learn some from me? I'll teach you later, privately!

Oh yeah, i tried to access light and easy fm/lightradio but unsuccessful. I miss the odies in light n easy...

Rainy day

Today is rainy day, I suppose it will continue shower throughtout the day. As usual, I woke up at 5:30 in the morning, sent the kids to school and came home at 8:30. Before I went to the turoring in Haverhill, I have about 30 minutes to get ready.

Thus, I played the Mp3 of Faye Wong while I'm preparing my breakfast. Again, I 'm struggling whether go or not go to the tutoring. It's so comfortable to just stay at home, listening to music and walking around the room without doing anything. I could read some books, I could write something, I could play with Ozzy,... Isn't it good?

Now, I fully understand why someone had ever told me when she has to leave here and go home, she will miss the comfortable life here... Compare with the working environment back in my country, this program more like a half vacation for me. It is about 85% stress free, might be. See, how comfortable it is curling on the couch in this rainy day.

Anyhow, I need to go to tutoring. Should be a responsible person (though I skip it once in a while).

miss home

Out of a sudden, I miss home so so much!

I miss the Wan tan mee, soup noodle, curry chu ciong fan, buffet steamboat, ..., miss going to Pasar Malam in Mont' Kiara, yam cha in those fancy restaurant, going to Malacca or Penang just to eat,...., and of course miss the people there the most! Sometimes I do think to get a ticket and fly home surprisingly! Yeah!! sounds good huuh?

Well, but I'm sure after a while I arrive at home, I will want to getaway again. That's happen most of the time when i stuck in the shitty works in job.

It has been more than a half year i live in America. It's not long, time really flies through very fast. It's time for me to think about the new direction for a few months later. Options are always there, but it's hard to make sure which I am suppose to go for. Sometimes, I think that i should travel whenever I still have the chances; but how long can I travel and when and where is the end? So confusing...

Instead of saying the times I travel out of country are the breaks for me, I feel more like the other way round. I might be a break for me when I'm home, and after recharge from the break, I started my journey that full of challenges again... a journey that was totally new and full of unexpectations!

But when I'm tired, I will miss home...

A Walk with Ozzy Boy

A walk in the early Spring...
sounds good huuh?

When I came back from Haverhill at 12pm, the weather is so great - sunny, 60F. Ozzy looked at me with his eyes eagerly going out for a 'play'. Okay, Let's go out for a something special today. I put on the leash to him and instead of playing in the front yard, we went for a walk on the street yesterday. He was so excited and pulled me all the way to the street with his full energy! Strong boy! Instead of saying I walked him, it's more like he walked me!

First, we walk east to Lilly Pond Rd along the lake. After a few meters away from home, I decided to walked back home as I'm afraid he loose control. So, we walked home by the other side of the 'very narrow Lilly Pond Rd'. On the way home, he was so friendly 'greeting' drivers and joggers who passed by. I am so glad that I didn't being pulled in to the mud and water on the way home.

Ozzy is having his fun time!

Ozzy jumped in to the lake to wash his body after getting some mud in the dirty water on the other side of the road. He almost pulled me into the water and I had to let go the leash and let him swim.

He hold the leash by himself when he run home... cute huuh!

Finally we reach home. I thought I should let him run in the front yard to let his hair dry a bit. I was wrong decision. I shouldn't do that because he rolled his body on the ground and turn into the very dirty Ozzy that I haver never seen!

I got no choice and had to bath him in the porch. Feeding him and bathing him at the same time, it's fun though!

But it's guarantee no more running in front yard after swimming in the future.

Spring Vs. Tick Tick

This is the second week of Spring. Generally, the weather is warmer, around 30F - 60F during the day. Everytime when I meet up with friends, we talk about our outdoor activities such as playing basket ball, soccer, swimming in the lake,... sounds great! I hope the weather will not turn really hot.

You still can't see flowers blooming but bikers, horses riders, joggers are all around on the roads everywhere. I really don't enjoy sharing the roads with this bunch of people when I'm driving. The roads are narrow hence winding, and they are hogging the roads without concerning their own safety as well as other users...I guess they love the nature too much... too much!

Spring also bring some other problems like allergic,.... and 'Tick Tick'!
Two days ago, Kyle found a tick from the body of my little brother. I remember I was so afraid of those ticks when I had dogs in my house when I'm a kid. After they suck the blood from the doggie, they grow bigger and bigger, fatter and fatter, and multiply the numbers of their 'generation' superb fast!! And, they hide everywhere! yiaky!!

So, I told him : "you have 'dut dut', you can not come to my room anyMORE...". Later when I go back to my room, he followed me till the doorstep of family room and sat down, facing the stairscase to my room. I was wonder why he didn't come, so I went to the top of stairs and saw he was sitting down there. I couldn't stop to laugh because he is so sweet, he understands what I said. Before I give him permission to come upstairs, he still sit there and wait. Oh my little sweetheart!!

This episod is about Movie

Some of you might know I am not a big fans of Movie nor Television program. I rarely spend time in front of the 'box'. And, there's very few movies that attempted me walked in to cinema.

It's shame for me to say that I was once a media student. Of course I enjoyed very much about this subject but I was never a good student in class. I always skip class, always party, always fall asleep at the last row of lecture hall.... why? Because I have a bunch of 'devil friends'... hehee... Well, we did skip class to go to the cinemas. But was it because I really love movie? No, the answer is definately no. First of all, it's because we don't like to participate in Kin Seng's class. What is the subject? Oh no, I can't remember. Second of all, there's cheaper tickets in cinema of KLCC on every Wednesday. We always say we will back to the class after the movie but we rarely did.

But surprisingly, I spent many times in front of the 'Box' these few months in US; either watching TV programs or DVDs. And then I found that, actually I like to do that. It's not bad. It's just that I don't watch any kind of programs. I select only quality stuffs!

Well, in this episod, we'll talk about movies....

Title: What the Bleep Do We Know?

I learnt about this movie from Chyng. So I got it from library. There's some movie that I never finished watching. This is one of them. If you are not a person who patient enough to remain your seat to listen to all the theories and think and analyze, you better don't waste your time. Well, I think it's a good material for you to think about something .....in life. Be frank, I'm not very sure what is it talking about. My attention was distract by foods in the kitchen, when I start feeling bored on the theories. It talks about human's perception based on quantum physic, science, spiritual,...etc. Curious about it, go check it out urself.

*Chyng, hope you get something from it because it cost so much! haha... **Chuan, strongly recommend for you!

Title: A walk to Remember

I love this kind of movie that has a story line, which touching my heart. It's not exagerate; it could be a true story or just the extension of the author's imagination. The affection of the story always stir up my emotion!

It's about a badass high school boy falling in love with a religious girl and how he fufills her miracle before she left....

*Evelaine, it's nothing to hide if you feel like to cry. Julie love the movie too huuh... **Carol, you are only 'feel it' when she said : "you are my angel" huuh?

to be continued...

Innocent little KIDs...

My name is Faith, I'm not faith faith... :)

"em.. I'm 3 years old"

"Do you want a teddy bear from my Teddy Bear Store?"

Tucker, a 5 years old handsome boy is coloring.

Tucker and Faith are the kids that I babysit from another family in Boxford. I talk to their mother on the phone at first and I went to visit them in one of the Saturday morning. The family of four was having their fun time on the hill at their backyard. Faith came to say hi and gave me some small stones as 'souvenir'. Tucker didn't came to say hi but he said "Zhai Jian" when I am leaving. :)

Their Mother, Lisa talked to Mary for my profile reference. Thanks for Mary's understanding and permission. She told Lisa that she shouldn't force me to go to her house when the weather is bad. Both of them know my accident happenned months ago. And I'm glad that Lisa understands my situation and arrange the babysit duty according to my schedule... She is happy, I'm happy, and Mary? I don't interfere my original work, I guess she "wouldn't unhappy". hahaha....

Tucker and Faith are sweet! Sometimes, Tucker run towards me and jump on me with a big hug! Little Faith always tell me when I'm leaving:" Bye Amy, I will miss you". Sweet huuh..?

Unsuccessful posts....

I'm back. Why do I disappeared for quite a while? This time is due to the technical problem too. I tried to create new post by everytime it's failed. How could the windows not responding while I try to upload pics to the blog? And I am 'force' to close the window and re-login the blogger again. Is that related to my computer or it's the blogger problem?

It's another risk that now I'm trying to type so many things here and end up 'hang' with the screen again...

Fresh N' White

Hi hi, I went to my friend's host family house to celebrate Chinese New Year on last Saturday. As usual, I packed my stuffs in my practical and good looking backpack and dump it into my car.

We have had a great time chatting with each other in the living room after the Malaysian + ang mo dinner. Somebody suggested to play card games. I realized that it's late and I need a shower before I could welcoming my 'doggie new year'.

I went to Yvonne's bathroom. It's the biggest among all au pairs's bathroom I have ever seen. The interior design is classic and looks like 60s or 70s. I like to call it classical cottage. Oh oh...that's not the main point.

The main point is, I saw something "gorgeous" in the toothbrush holder. Guess what is it.

******************************************************* Get it??

It's Fresh N' White!!! Uhooooo! I love it!
I forgot to check what is the favor but its package is in blue. I used to use the one in green, mint favor. That's the only toothpaste I like after my parents period of using Darlie.

I tried the other brand before but it tastes strange for me. People using Darlie always can't accept 'red brand' and those used to 'red brand' always say Darlie is too strong. And I found something in the middle. Not too strong, more affordable, and taste good!! hehe...

I didn't bring any extra toothpaste in my luggage to US. At first, my host mum gave me one but it tastes totally 'STRANGE' for me. I felt like putting overdue food into my mouth. eakkk....!

Then I got myself another brand which is also never seen in Malaysia (May be we do have it there but I too used to Darlie and Fresh N' White). And, it tastes even worse!! Finally I got myself a mint favor 'red brand'. Oh gosh! Why so different? Different from 'red brand' in Malaysia too. I don't like American toothpaste at all! Taste bad and very little bubble. eakk....!!
I don't enjoy brushing teeth now. Now I know why some parents have to get their kids many different favors of kodomo lion, etc.

uhooo...hoooo... a lots of bubble with my Fresh N' White!!
Eat well, sleep well, and brush well !!

Primura Auricula

Bloom bloom bloom ...

I love flowers!

In UK, flowers growing everywhere in Summer and Autumn. Different colors appear at the windows and balconies as well as along the streets. variety colors of wild flowers take place of greenery in different seasons. I saw 'white mountain' in Peak District when I arrived in UK. It changed to yellow after a month and follow by purple, etc. Glenn told me the purple wild flowers named Heather, which is grow fast and strong untill it take place of all other plantation. It's always beautiful but such a headache for the farmers. I always take pictures with flowers untill all my friends in UK know I am crazy for them.

'Purple mountain' in peak district

I like to keep a pot of cactus at home. Forgive me that I have no idea what is the name of the kind that I like. It's green at the bottom and either red or yellow (flowers??) on top. It is so easy to keep this kind of cactus. I almost never took care of them besides pouring some water once in a while. I had one in my room in Alpha condominium and Way Siong bet it would die within a month because I'm so lazy. Surprisingly, it growed well with little care. I gave it to my housemate when I moved. Then, I got another one when I shifted back to Serdang but the naughty mickey mouse thought it was ice creme and God bless it. The third cactus i had in UK. Same, it growed very well and accompany me for a few months before I back home.

Other than that, I always seek for a kind of flower which I didn't know the name untill I found this (as picture) in Boston. I am so surprise and glad to see them in the market. That's what I always looking for! And finally I know it called Primula Auricula.

I had two pots of this flowers during my vacation in Australia. There are in date red and yellow. It is nothing so special from other flowers but what make me love it?

....I learnt something through keeping these flowers. The new sprouts in the middle keep blooming and you have to get rid of those old flowers although you may think it still look good. Same to do with the leaves. Always give enough room to the new blossom so that it flourish well and looks nice. Something for you to think about. Keep a pot of this plant and you may know the meaning.

*May your life flourish with colorful blossom!*

SnOWsssss

A red house in the snow

It's so beautiful !

That's my suite on top of the garage. Everyday when I wake up from bed, I look out from the window and it's so nice to see the woods cover by snow!! The first snow storm in this winter, the snow continue for the whole day and it blocks my window. I couldn't go anyway because the snow is so heavy. I felt so bored to do nothing at home. Suddenly, I saw my hair dryer beside the window. I picked it up and blowed the window. It's fun! The snow the block my window flew away from my window and I made a hole in the snow... hahaa.... that's not bored anymore!!

Sometimes, staying alone I learnt to be entertained myself by doing something noncense.

Happy Chinese New Year!!

I guess all my beloved friends in Malaysia are busy with CNY shopping. Usually, some of you would feedback to my journal or write me emails frequently. But these few days, I hardly heard from you.

People keep telling me Chinese New Year is around the corner but I hardly feel it. Some of my friends in other states are organising CNY party at their host families' house and I am invited. Yvonne's family will do a bonfire in their 'farm house'. I think that will be great because it's winter now and you can do something special in the snow... I consider to join them but a bit lazy to drive for few hours to New Hampshire.

em...anyone of you will escape from KL in CNY again?

Gong Xi Fa Chai to those uncle and aunty, Ang Pao can be posted to:

Lily Pond Road, Boxford. heheee :P

Hurray!! Snowing!!

Ozzy loves snow!!

He is energetic and likes to run in the woods. During the snow days, he loves to play in the yard and dig his head into the snow on the ground.

He won't be bored staying whole day outside palying in the snow. I am too cold and don't feel like soak in the snow today. So, he couldn't stay outside too long too.

He doesn't want to come home yet. Still want to play in the snow. But he would come with me if I say :"Ozzy, chees...". hahaaa..he loves snow, but he loves chees too!

Problem with Windows Explorer

Anyone can answer my questions regarding computer?

Recently when I'm using the Windows explorer to arrange my folders and files in My Pictures, a screen pop up and said that there's some problem and need to close my windows explorer. It happenned everytime when i try to reopen again. Now, it even happen to my internet explorer. I suspect there's a system/software crash between Windows with Real player. It's because I use Real Player recently. Is it possible?

I'm just afraid it affects my photos keeping in My Pictures. I took a lots of efforts to take them and wish not to loose them.

Snow in January 2006

Snow again...

The back yard from media room in 1st floor.

The wood is coating in its white jacket...

The weather forecast annouce the snow storm to be continued untill tomorrow. I can't imagine how thick the snow can be...
The beauty of snowing still touching my heart though it's not my first snow. I love to drive slowly and watching to the snow flakes flying to my windscreen. The country roads are so beautiful when it's snowing!!

But, I'm afraid to drive sometimes if the snow is too much.

Traffic in US vs. Malaysia

Talking about the gas price differences in Malaysia and US. It link me to the traffic system in these two countries.

Some people who have never visited Malaysia would never have idea how busy is Kuala Lumpur. They may think Malaysian are living on the trees or in the jungle. I remember I keep some photos I have taken with a baby elephant in Thailand before I came to US. When I show them to some of my friends from many different countries, I told them that's my pet at home in my country. And surprisingly, they do believe it! Huhh!!

And previously, one of Malaysian au pair in West coast of US was asked to rematch because the family claimed that they need an au pair from a big city who can drive very well. Oh shit!! See what these people think of my country. It is such a shame, isn't it? But after a while, I think it's not our shame but those who have no idea about Malaysia is. Probably they know only things that infront of their doorstep.

Well, there is still some people who know better about Malaysia. I am so glad that our formal Prime Minister Tun Datuk Dr. Mathir's contribution to Malaysia development. His vision created a lot of good names of Malaysia in the world. People knows about F1, Multimedia Super Corridor, Twin Tower (used to be 4th highest building in the world?), and so on. There is some of the aspect we should be proud of being a Malaysian.

But I really want to critic about the traffic system in Malaysia. As I can say, some of the road signs are not installed for the driver to check the direction. It is more for driver to check that they went into wrong exit. Why do I say so? There is some road sign placing either too close to the exit or even after the exit. It's just confusing! What for to place it after the exit? To check whether you drove in to the wrong exit? If you drive in Kuala Lumpur, you definately know how bad is the traffic especially in the morning when everybody rushing to work and leaving office in the evening. What is the real cause of these traffice jam and accidents? Is it because the country is too small but the vehicles on the road is overwhelming? Is this a problem without a solution and hopeless? I doubt how much effort do we put to at least reduce the problem. Could we improve the public transportation or something else? ....

As I'm here for the 5th month, I really love the traffic in US. The land is big and there have enough spaces to build huge highway. Some highways link to each other and some even started from the South to the North, from the West to the East across countries. The highways are really highway. You can enjoy speed driving at least up to 120mph! If you are driving at 65mph, probably you need to spare more hour on the road :)

The country road was so complicated when I first arrive. There is too many roads and if you don't familiar with that area, you will probably lost in the woods. But luckily the road map is so helpful as it is close to 100% details and accurate unless you get an outdated map. The little green road name plate is placing on every begining and end of the road. And the road directions signs are so clear and place at the right position. If you are going to a new place by checking on the map, you will not missed it if you follow the road sign.

Another aspect that surprise me is the efficiency of police in US. In the town I live, you can see the police patroling everywhere and hiding somewhere under the trees or the intersection like they are get ready to arrest those break the rules. So, if you want to speeding, you have to be careful and scanning every potential spot of police's 'favourite'. It's funny but it works well.

I used to be a tough driver in Malaysia but now I almost trained to be gentle. I may have problem to drive in Kuala Lumpur again... hahaa...

Gas Price

What is the gas (petrol) price in KL now?

In Malaysia, we call the fuel using by general cars as petrol and gas for certain taxi. In US we call it gas. The price of gas is different from day to day, sometimes it changes from morning to afternoon and night. Different gas station selling it at different price. It's fun to look around to get a cheaper gas.

When I first arrived in US, the gas price was selling at around $2.20. It was up and down for the past few months. When the price drop to around $1.59, everybody was happy and I can see how big the different was shown by my gas needle in my car.

Unfortunately, the price is going up again. These few weeks, it is more or less $2.33. Filling $30 is like nothing in my Land Cruiser. Too bad!

In US, Mobile station is everywhere. Imagine it's like Shell station in Malaysia. But Shell station is not that much in US. Mobile always selling the gas at highest price here.

Hey, how good if my car always drink water only.

Accident REPORT (2)

The next Monday after the accident, I have to drive again. As usual, I have to drive Kyle to the driveway before 6:50am. Eivind's Land Cruiser is even bigger than my previous Santa fe. I got in to the car, checking everything that's new to me and I asked Kyle whether he is afraight. He said no, and asked me to take it easy. He was not afraid? I guess he might pretend relax and sit back.

On Tuesday, Eivind got his new car, a brand new Porch. I wonder how rich they are and always click on the mouse and then parcels and boxes come to our house. It's the extension of his first Porch. This is much bigger and higer than the 2 seats racing car. He was so excited and so as Chris. I bet that would be Chris's car later because he is allowed to drive in March. He might feel happy because I damaged his Santa Fe... hehehe...just kidding.

On the following days, I drove the Land Cruiser to show Poh Chin around Boston. But I was afraight to drive to Boston Downtown after the crash. So we took the train and subway.

Nowadays, I learnt from the lesson and drive really slow. I drive around 30 - 45mph on the country road when there's snow or wet on the road. The Land Cruiser is bigger but I feel that it's not better than my Santa Fe. The steerling would shake when I am driving on the uneven road. The brake is too old and do not works well. It doesn't show a well performance on the highway when I drive fast though it's heavy. And it consumes lots of gas....

Anyway, one of my friend from Germany said she met an accident when she is 17. And she is happy she is still alive. So we both agree that an accident without injuries in the younger age perhaps is not a bad thing. We learnt from it and more appreciate our life and tend to drive safety.

I am glad that God keep me here. And Kyle is so sweet after the accident. He changed alot, never yell at me again, wake up bed without making noise and always smile. I think he is more appreciate life too!

I hope he will not drive fast when he is able to drive in 3 years later.

Accident REPORT (1)

I am regret that I mentioned about my car accident and didnt describe in details previously. Some of you were wonder how am I and I didn't even reply your email. Here am I to recall the day it happenned....

December 16, 2005 (Friday), 6:55 in the morning.

As usual, I have to drive Chris to school at 7:15am. I woke up Kyle and drove him to the driveway and wait for the bus. But he was late and we saw the girl live next door was driven to school by his dad. So, we thought we might missed the bus again. Thus, he asked me to drive him to somewhere to catch the bus. I was angry because I know he might cheat me and want me to drive him all the way to school again. And I can't do that because I have to drive Chris later. But he insisted that he know where the bus is and so I drove....

It was about less than a mile from house, I told him don't try to cheat me and if we don't see the bus in next junction, I would drive home and wake up his dad. At that moment, I found that my car run fast and I would want to slow down. The car lost control and swayed on the road. I once control it but suddenly the car slided to the left. I tilted back the steerling but the car crash immediately up to the hill and hit a big tree on my right.

I heard Kyle's screaming at the few second when we know we will crash. And both of my hand was holding my head when I see the car heading to the BIG tree. In a few second, I couldn't see anything but I smelled a strong smoke from the explosion of airbag or engine. Kyle was afraid and kept calling my name. When I realize that I am still alive, I am so worry about Kyle and he told me he is fine. I thought the choking smell were from the engine so I ordered him to get off the car immediately. And I did. The door on my side was damaged and I left from another side.

We both were standing far away from the car in the rain and tried to call his dad. A car had stopped and asked if we need help. I guess Eivind might having a big shock again when he answer the call from Kyle. We got back and waited in the car. The car was still standing properly on the road but facing backward on my way. Many cars stopped and asked if we need help.

In about 15 minutes, Eivind arrived and so as the fire dept, polices, and ambulance. The fireman said that is a bad spot and many accident happenned here. And we also been told by the police that the school was delayed for 2 hours due to bad weather. So, what did we rushed for? The ambulance staffs make sure we didn't get hurt and asked if we need to go hospital. I had a minor sore on my neck but i was just worried about the car. It was so bad!!

Later, Eivind drove us back home and I was so exhausted! I went back to my room and couln't stop crying. Everything appeared on my mind was about the crash, the car damage, Kyle's screaming, and I would be sent home.

I heard about many cases that once the au pair crash the car, they have to go home. For me, I dont really do other works besides driving the kids. And I might loose my job because of this accident. And Poh Chin was in the plane heading to America. How could I stop her and how could I show her around without a car? I might have to pay for the $500 deductible of car insurance, and bought a flight ticket to fly home immediately. ... so, I picked up the phone.. and finally I reached my eldest sister. I remember I was crying so bad and told her I have to go home because I crashed the car. And I told her that I have nothing after I pay the insurance and flight ticket. And cried and cried....

She just told me : Come back. We will support you.

And I called Nela and told her about the accident and some of my friends here too. We were suppose to have a farewell party and video recording in my suite that night, so I called them to cancel everything. I felt so guilty and how could I have fun again.

In two hours later, I walked with Kyle to the driveway to wait for the bus. He talked alot to me while we were walking. He told me not to worry about it, he claimed that it was his fault because he asked me to rush for the bus, he asked me not to listen to him again and do it my way next time, he asked me to yell at him if he refuse to wake up in future, he told me about the previous au pair driving and accidents, he told me about Kip's accident and how his parents settled it, he told me his parents are rich enough to scrab the damaged car and buy a new one, he told me that he will tell his parents that's his fault,.... He said if I feel cold, I dont have to come to the driveway in the afternoon, he can walk home alone. And suddenly he asked: "Will you stay here to celebrate Christmas with us?" I kept quiet. And he continue : "What Christmas gift do you like?" I cried again and told him I might have to go home. You know what he said? He said he likes me and I don't have to go home. Sometimes, he yelled but he don't know why because he just feel like to yell and it's not because he doesn't like me.... And, he hugged me many times and told me not to worry. Before he get in to bus, he hugged me again and told me go home and rest. He is so sweet, isn't it?

But I still felt guilty and worried about how my host parents think about this. I guessed Mary will be shocked while she return from France the next day. And, my neck sore were more serious when i woke up bed in the evening.

Eivind asked if I have really fine before he went to work and called home to check if I am okay. When he came home, he told me he would check with the insurance company tomorrow and if it costs too much to repair, he would crab the car and get a new one. I felt so guilty and just standing there quietly. He walked to me and hugged me. "It's okay" he said. He sounds like a dad talking to the frighten daughter. I was crying and said sorry again.....

And, the next evening Mary came back from France. Nela and Avashni were in my room. I told them it's time to be punished before I pick up Poh Chin from airport. So, I went to her room.

The moment she see me, she was holding a toothbrush and she hugged me and asked if I am fine. She was wearing a smile on her face and told me they can get a new car and as long as we are safe, everything is fine..... She didnt asked me to pay for anything.

I ran back to my room with smile and told them about the 'final result'. I guess she must feel sad too because I damaged the Santa Fe which is only 2 years car, still new and good before this. But, she still have to wear a big smile on her face... That's so nice!

Some local people told me that I actually hit the black ice. They told me it was not my fault because it could happen to experience local drivers too. Sometimes, when people aware of the black ice on the highway, they have to pull over the car and even wait for a few hours for the ice to melt or let other car drive on it first. It's like a layer of ice covering the whole road and you wouldn't aware untill you feel you car is 'flying' on the road. And I was the first few drivers who used the road that morning and underestimated the dangerous of black ice.

This frightening car accident was happenned in a flip second. I can't imagine if I hurt Kyle or myself or we might have die. I am so regret that I drove too fast and underestimated the road conditions.

to be continued....

A Lots To Do in WINTER

Snow Sledding @ Amesbury

Dec 20, 2005

This is my first snow sledding. Have this idea to do sledding with Carol and 'her kids' because of Poh Chin's visit. She flew all the way from West Australia to East Australia, from EastAustralia to West America, and finally from West America flew to East America. Therefore, I was so hectic to arrange some 'Resort Excursion' for her. What can we do without spending too much but guarantee have fun? At first, we plan to go for snow mobile but Dynn was sick. And thus we change our plan to do sledding in Amesbury. Without paying a single cent, we enjoy our afternoon with lots of fun!

John was not feeling well and refused to play. "I just want to watch" he says. Ben was so energetic and had fun! I was a little bit afraid before my first try. "ah........................." and I was down the hill already. It's not scary, it's fun!! But Poh Chin scratch her face while she rollover on the snow and she decided not to go skiing in this trip.

Can you see the scratch the scratch mark on her face?

Look at the sunset flame on the snow, it's beautiful!