Irene's Big Wonderland (1)

Blogging Continues to A New Blog

2009-04-30T15:34:00.004-07:00

Thursday, 30 April 2009

This is the last day of April and also the last posting for this blog. However the journey has not ended. It continues in a new blog. Please go to Irene's Big Wonderland (2)

Moving Again!

2009-04-30T15:17:00.003-07:00

Friday, 24 April 2009

This is crazy. Just when I am beginning to enjoy my environment and making friends, we have to pack and move. It is not fun packing, cleaning, unpacking all over again!

Yuma Foothills

2009-04-30T15:09:00.005-07:00

Friday, 24 April 2009

I like the foothills. It is not as hectic as the Yuma city.

Isn't this tree beautiful?

Yuma County Fair 2009

2009-04-02T20:12:00.015-07:00

Wednesday, 1st April 2009

The Fair started yesterday at 3 pm and will end on the 8th April. Opening Day was also Dollar Day but today the ticket was $5 for adults, $3 for kids 7-12, and kids 6 and younger are free.

The kids would love the amusement rides, exhibition of pets, food of course, etc. Last year I saw pigs, sheep, horses, cows but this year I saw rabbits.

A mother and her 3 children

These rabbits are bigger than a chihuaha!

From pets to exhibit of interesting cakes:

Memory

2009-03-29T18:17:00.005-07:00

Sunday, 29 March 2009

I like the way Jason Castro sang "Memory". He only sang the lyrics bolded in blue color.

Midnight
Not a sound from the pavement
Has the moon lost her memory
She is smiling alone
In the lamplight
The withered leaves
Collect at my feet
And the wind
Begins to moan

Memory
All alone in the moonlight
I can smile at the old days
I was beautiful then
I remember
The time I knew what happiness was
Let the memory
Live again

And every streetlamp
Seems to beat
A fatalistic warning
Someone mutters
And the streetlamp gutters
And soon it will be morning

Daylight
I must wait for the sunrise
I must think of a new life
And I musn't give in
When the dawn comes
Tonight will be a memory too
And a new day
Will begin

Burnt out ends
Of smokey days
The stale cold smell
Of the morning
And the streetlamp dies
Another night is over
Another day is dawning

Touch me
It's so easy to leave me
All alone with the memory
Of my days in the sun
If you touch me
You'll understand what happiness is
Look a new day
Has begun

Relief Society 167th Birthday Celebration

2009-03-22T16:16:00.015-07:00

Thursday, 19th March 2009

In 2008, the Yuma Stake celebrated the Relief Society's 166th birthday on Saturday, 8 March, with a talentime program and lunch. I don't remember the ward I go to, in 2008, celebrated the occasion. If she did, I didn't attend.

This year the Yuma Stake celebrated on Saturday, 28 February, with a talk and lunch. I lost my concentration with the talk because it was too long for me.

The ward that I go to, this year, celebrated the occasion as her quarterly Home, Family and Personal Enrichment (HFPE) activity tonight, with a small talk, cake and ice-cream.

These decorations, on the tables attracted my attention. I have not seen them before. Very creative!

Ony the cupcakes and the sweets on the tables could be eaten. The rest were glued to the sticks!

Interestingly, the St. Patrick's Day celebration happened to be the same day as the birthday of the Relief Society - 17 March.

St. Patrick's Day in Yuma

2009-03-18T10:33:00.018-07:00

Tuesday, 17 March 2009

Frances asked me if I would like to join her for St. Patrick's Day luncheon, organised by a group called Helping Hands. One thing she forgot to tell me is to wear green. She forgot herself too as this was her first experience with St. Patrick's Day as well.

There were already a lot of people in the hall when we arrived so we sat outside, which we like better because it was not as packed.

The tables were decorated with green this and green that. Majority of the people were dressed in green too.

We were served with a plate of corned beef, boiled cabbage, soda bread, potato, baby carrots, baby tomatoes & celery. I didn't even know that piece of juicy looking beef was corned beef. I was told at the table that it was beef but no mention of corned beef. Since I don't care for beef, I gave my piece away!!!!! What I regretted was if I knew it was a classical Irish dish I would have taken a picture of it. I only learnt that when Mike asked me what I had for lunch. Well!!!

For dessert, we have the choice of a chocolate, vanilla, tapioca pudding with a piece of cookie.

We have a four-legged guest at lunch and its name sounded like Panchita. Panchita's master's grandparents were migrants from Ireland.

And for the 1st time I received an electronic St. Patrick's Day card, even though I have no Irish blood in me. Thanks, Kent.

Long Queue - Yuma MCAS BaseTour

2009-02-15T17:19:00.008-07:00

Tuesday, 10 February 2009

This picture was taken at the Marine Corps Air Station. Michael took me there for their free public guided tour of the MCAS Base. I read it in the http://www.yumacalender.org that morning. The tour was between 9 to 10:30 am. When we arrived at 9:30 am, we saw 2 buses waiting. According to a Marine on duty, 2 buses had already left with their first load of people. The queue was looooooooong. The people in front of me said it is probably a quarter mile.

Because of his physical condition, Michael couldn't stand too long, so we decided not to join the tour this day and left. Don't know how long before it would be our turn to enter the buses. We were told that the tour would take about 20 minutes. The buses would return to unload and take new passengers.

I was glad to leave too because I don't like the cold. Also when I feel cold, I tend to visit the restroom more!

Wednesday, 18 March 2009

I missed their Air Show for this year on Saturday, 14 March 2009, as well (sigh).

Dogs - Wonders of the World

2009-01-31T19:48:00.028-07:00

Saturday, 31 January 2008

I wonder why they called it Pet Expo when there were no other pets except dogs. Anyway, the dog is my favourite animal/pet, and I am glad for the opportunity to be able to see different breeds at the park this morning. Please correct me if I got any of the breed here wrong.

Yuma's first dog park, behind the Wal-Mart on Pacific Avenue.

The organiser of the Expo - Humane Society of Yuma

Who wants me?

From the therapist booth - a toy dog

The real therapist dog - An Irish Setter

A Golden Retriever

A Basset Hound and a Bloodhound

A Japanese Akita

A Great Dane and his bed.

An English Bull Terrier

A Sheltie Mix and A Sheltie

Two Rottweilers

A Shih Tzu

Two Dachsunds

A Long-hair Dachsund - this is my favourite picture of the day!

A Poodle on the ground

A poodle in the air! It was carried!

Decorating/painting fire hydrants to raise fund for the park.

Grapefruits, Lemons and Oranges

2009-01-30T13:14:00.015-07:00

Monday, 26 January 2009

Did you see the beauty and the blessings around you? I saw them on this beautiful Monday afternoon at a RV Park. All the trees in this RV park had fruits on them. Some trees were just packed with the yellow fruits. Yes, all of them, because I got Mike to drive me around the park so that I can choose the trees I wanted to take pictures of. I would say most of the RV parking lots has at least one fruit tree. It is a beautiful sight for me.

The owner of the trees, we picked the fruits from, was initially annoyed that we didn't ask his permission first, but later said to go ahead, after we told him that the RV park owner had given the green light.

I had asked the RV park owner if this was an orange orchard before the land was turned into an RV park and she said the trees were planted after.

They were not all oranges! I thought they were from the colour.

Angela, don't you wish you could grow these fruit trees in your backyard?

This is a grapefruit tree

This is a lemon tree.

And an orange tree

We just picked 2 of each kind (not exactly, we ended up with 3 grapefruits!). As the owner of the orange fruit tree said, the oranges were not sweet, but they were edible. They were also a little dry too. The grapefruits were juicy :)

Trishaw in Yuma

2009-01-19T16:36:00.006-07:00

Sunday, 18 January 2009

Thanks, Howard, for allowing me to take a picture of us together! This is the 1st trishaw (that is how we call this in Asia) or 1st pedicab (as you call it) I saw in Yuma. I never thought I would see one here!

Saw it in front of the Yuma Civic Center where the Annual Yuma Home & Garden Show was held this day.

Whether it is call a trishaw, pedicab, rickshaw, bugbug or cyclo, I think it is a fun way to travel and sightsee in a city, especially if you have difficulty walking or just want to sit back and relax! The 2 times I remembered using the trishaw was in Malaysia and China. The one in Malaysia was powered by a motor while the one in China was human powered. I guess the latter mode serves as exercise for the peddlar!

Mesalands Dinosaur Museum, Tucumcari, New Mexico

2009-01-10T14:29:00.036-07:00

Saturday, 3 January 2008

I wondered if this museum is the world's largest collection of lifesize bronze prehistoric skeletons, as reported? Admission fee was $3.00 per adult. We were allowed to take pictures as well. So here are some of them to share with you.

Giant snail, giant shark tooth

Look at the size of the gaint clams compared to the modern clams!

Crystallized Critter

New Mexico State Fossil

Giant Leg

Giant Footprint

Giant Hip Bone and Tooth Marks

Tiny Head??????

Triceratops

Tyrannosaurus Rex Skull

Dragon and Alligator Skull

Giant Eggs

Killer in the flesh

Michael with the Torvosaurus, which is said to be the only display piece in the whole world?????

Raptor

Armor All

And others...........

Nodding Donkeys and Windmills of Sunray, Texas

2009-01-09T19:39:00.008-07:00

Saturday, 3 January 2008

I remembered it being called a donkey. There are a lot of this kind of donkey in Sunray, Texas. I understood the water pumpjack is colored blue. This is an oil pumpjack.

The only windmills that I know of are the ones in Netherlands. These turbines are also called windmills and I understand they covert the wind energy into electricity.

Amarillo City Zoo, Texas

2009-01-09T12:41:00.028-07:00

Friday, 2 January 2009

Admission was free!

Texas Longhorn

Miniature Donkey

Bennett's Wallaby

Black Handed Spider Monkey

American Bison

African Spurred Tortoise

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

2009-01-08T19:59:00.005-07:00

Wednesday, 31 January 2008

Admission fee was $10 (incl. $.62 tax) for an adult and $8.50 (incl. $.51 tax) for a Senior. I really enjoyed the visit. Altogether there were 27 galleries and points of interest. A place filled with interesting information to learn from.

The End of the Trail

Canyon Princess - what an intesting name for an animal.

Western Performers Gallery

Mike with his favorite actor, John Wayne

The Joe Grandee Museum of the Frontier West

Prosperity Junction - circa 1900 Western Cattle Town

Abraham Lincoln, without his famous beard!

The Jack and Phoebe Cooke Gardens

Wreaths Across America (2008)

2008-12-14T12:16:00.025-07:00

Saturday, 13 December 2008

Last year the ceremony was held at the Yuma Armed Forced Park on Saturday 15 December. This year it was held at the Desert Lawn Memorial Cemetery. And this year the ceremony was provided by the Yuma Civil Air Patrol Squadron 508, where Mike belongs.

As usual the weaths were provided by the Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine.

6 of the 7 wreaths were placed by personnel from the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Coast Guard, Merchant Marine.

Honoring members of the U.S. Army

Honoring members of the U.S. Navy

Honoring the members of the U.S. Marine Corps

Honoring the members of the U.S. Air Force

Honoring the members of the U.S. Coast Guard

Honoring the members of the Merchant Marine

And honoring the members of the POW/MIA.

The 21-gun salute by the firing team from American Legion Post #19

Mike with his beloved bagpipes!

An extra set of 7 wreaths was received and so these children got the honor of searching and laying them on 7 veterans' gravesides.

Independence Day

2008-07-06T22:12:00.003-07:00

Friday, 4 July 2008

I missed the fireworks again this year! Last year, Mike & I were in Tucson, for Mike's cataract operation. Today, we were in Needles, for Billy's memorial service on Sunday. Both times, due to unforeseen circumstances.

Today marked the 232nd anniversary (4 July 1776) of USA independence from Britain. We had our celebration at home - barbecued hot dogs, meat patties, etc.

"Freedom is not free"

Moving On

2008-06-28T18:33:00.016-07:00

Saturday, 28 June 2008

I wish we didn't have to move. I was beginning to enjoy the neighbors and the surroundings.

Nice park

Beautiful flowers

Wide clean road

What I am going to miss most are my 2 visiting teachers - Sister Lourdes and Sister Suphattra. Interestingly we are from 3 different countries - Uruguay, Thailand and Malaysia. And after this month, the 3 of us will not be together again.......

The final move of furnitures. Thanks to Brother Fred and Brother Roberto who came to help with the move.

My kitchen for the past year

Thanks to Brother Ezequiel who came to mow the grass and lastly Mike flushing the outside of the house. Hopefully the Landlord is happy with the the house and pay us back the deposit!

Memorial Day - Sunset Vista Funeral Home and Cemetery

2008-05-26T21:14:00.023-07:00

Monday, 26 May 2008 - Memorial Day

Mike was asked to play the bagpipes this morning at the Memorial Day Celebration at Sunset Vista Funeral Home and Cemetery.

Mike with some of the veterans who did the 21 Gun Salute.

La Societe des 40 Hommes et 8 Chevaux (The Society of Forty Men & Eight Horses) - traces back to the box cars used in France in World War I.

A lot of bikers came to the memorial ceremony.

21 Gun Salute

Below the tree, Mike played "Amazing Grace" to close the ceremony.

Saturday, 24 May 2008 - Sunset Visa Funeral Home and Cemetery

This is an interesting finding - A veteran with the same 1st name, same 2nd initial and the same last name as the present US president, George W. Bush, was buried in this cemetery.

I thought this is cute - an angel at this graveside. This angel is wearing out. There is a hole around her knee.

Last but not least, a tank from World War II, standing guard in the Veterans burial ground

Long Time No See

2008-05-26T17:21:00.008-07:00

Sunday, 25 May 2008

So happy that Stanley, Mary, Joanne & Cassey (their Shih Tzu) were able to stop over in Yuma and stayed with us for the night. It was good to visit with each other and talk the Malaysia way, for a change. It has been 6 years since Stanley & I last met. Last we lived like half an hour apart by road, in the same city. But now it is 19 hrs apart by road - 1300 miles, in different cities, in different states.

I love Mike's Mexican cooking. I think I prefer his cooking than the food at the Mexican restaurants. For Stanley, Mary & Joanne, it was their first time having Menudo, which we bought home from a Mexican restaurant, to add to the Chili Pepper Omelette and the Chili Stew/Tortillo that Michael had prepared.

Wheat and Rock Melon

2008-05-26T16:52:00.009-07:00

Sunday, 25 May 2008

I am impressed with the agriculture here. I thought the yellow field were hay but it wasn't This is the first time I have seen wheat plant.

On the other side of the field is another crop - Cantaloupe. Never heard that term in Malaysia. I knew it as rock melon.

Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

2008-05-18T18:25:00.018-07:00

Friday, 16 May 2008

Last place of interest to visit before we drove back home - Petrified Forest National Park - located near Holbrook in Northern Arizona.

Painted Desert is beautiful!

The Newspaper Rock

The colorful Teepes

Petrified Forest

Agate Bridge: The petrified tree trunk

Agate Bridge: The petrified tree root

The skeletons of the animals that once dwelt in the Triassic Park.

An imagery model of what the Triassic Park had looked like?

Southwest Soaring Museum, New Mexico

2008-05-18T17:16:00.024-07:00

Friday, 16 May 2008

Yesterday, driving westward from Tecumseh, Oklahoma, Mike & I visited an entertainment museum - the Roger Miller Museum - located in Erick, Oklahoma. Today we had the opportunity to visit a soaring museum - located on Route 66, on the east side of Moriarty, New Mexico.

We were not allowed to take pictures at the Roger Miller Museum. Today, I am allowed to take as many pictures as I wanted to, of anything in the Southwest Soaring Museum.

I didn't know I am interested in planes until today, amazed by the different kinds of sailplanes and gliders.

From the outside, it looked like a big warehouse

First plane I saw entering the museum was this "Little Bird 1". I guess it is built for any little child to feel what it is like in a glider!

The collection of gliders

The oldest glider in the collection: Northrup Primary Glider (built 1929)

2nd oldest glider in the collection: Franklin P-S-2 Glider (built 1930)

Hang Glider

This is an interesting piece: Benson B-8 Modified Gyro Glider

A model of what the place would look like in future.

N.B. What I also enjoyed also on this visit is playing with Duffy.

The Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ Ministries, Groom, Texas

2008-05-18T09:28:00.006-07:00

Tuesday, 13 May 2008

Travelling along the Interstate 40 in Groom, Texas, we could see the white cross from far away. It has been claimed to be the largest cross in the western hemisphere but after checking the internet it is now the 2nd largest. The cross at Effingham, Illinois is 8 feet taller, standing at 198 feet.

There were 13 bronze sculptures, depicting the different scenes from the time he was condemned to death until his body was removed from the cross.

Station 1: Jesus before Pontius Pilate, the governor of Judaea.

Station 13: Jesus is taken down from the cross.

The Last Supper in front of Station 12 - Crucifixion of Jesus and the 2 thieves.

Chief Yellow Horse Trading Post, Lupton, Arizona

2008-05-18T08:34:00.008-07:00

Monday, 12 May 2008

It is located at the Arizona - New Mexico border, along the Route 66 and Interstate 40. Chief Yellow Horse Trading Post is too prominent to be missed because most the stores and signs were painted in yellow!

Mike took every opportunity to practise his bagpipes, for the funeral on Wednesday 14 May in Oklahoma, but couldn't stay long because the wind was blowing too hard.

The animals and eagles looked real from the top of the rock formation where Mike was practising his bagpipes. I can't make out what the white and black colored animals were.

Sure like to visit this place again if we drive this way again. We didn't get to visit the fort because it was closed. I wanted to take pictures of the distinctive yellow color of the stores but the wind was so strong and pushing me.

Yuma Arizona Stake 50th Anniversary Celebration

2008-04-26T18:21:00.003-07:00

Saturday, 26 April 2008

We have the machine. We have the sugar. We have people scheduled to work every half an hour. We have children queuing for it. BUT there was a problem with the supply of electricity to the cotton candy machine. It kept shutting off even before and after our schedule time.

This is one fishing ground where you would definitely get a 'fish'. I went around to check what is behind the curtains. There were a few youth sitting there placing 'fish' (I didn't go closer to see what they were) onto the line/hook that was thrown down to their side.

Menudo in Brawley

2008-04-18T22:03:00.009-07:00

Friday, 18 April 2008

It is a soupy Mexican traditional dish, made of tripe, hominy and chili. They said it is an antidote for hangover, it is a cure of many ailments and it is always prepared on New Year's morning.

When I first tasted it in January 2008, I didn't like the smell of it. I thought the hominy were big barley and that the barley were out of date. I know now that the hominy are not barley but hulled and dried kernels of corn. I recognised the tripe as stomach linings of cows.

2 weeks ago, I had the opportunity to try again. The smell didn't repulse me as it did in January. I thought it tasted alright but I was not interested to eat a bowl yet.

Today, I ordered a small bowl. It would be a shame if I don't, being in a famous Mexican restaurant in Brawley and having driven 1 hrs 15 minutes from Yuma to get there.

It tasted better when added with chopped onions, fresh cilantro and lemon juice. Accompanying the menudo and the plate of condiments was a plate of flour tortillas.

Do I like menudo? Not really. Would I eat that again? Maybe after a few months.

Yuma County Fair 2008

2008-04-06T15:57:00.010-07:00

Saturday, 5 April 2008

This was the 5th day of the 56th Annual Yuma County Fair. We were able to visit for about 2 hrs. It was not so crowded during our time of visit so that was good. I am sure the 1st day must be crammed with people because admission was only $1.

One could spend the whole day there. There were different exhibits. entertainments, games, stage shows, contests, music, magic, dances, rides, food, drinks for the whole family.

Encounters with real animals are rare in my life, except at zoos, so most of the pictures I took were animals!

The Budwiser's Clydesdales were magnificent! This was the first time I have seen Clydesdales in real life. They were big, tall and beautiful. I asked the security guard whether I could touch one of the horses. I knew the answer would be no, because the horses didn't know me and it would be dangerous. So I just stood there and admired them instead!

At the Livestock Barn, a 11 year old boy sat inside a matted pen, stroked his beloved his pet while she slept. Jewels is 8 months old, waiting for her turn to be auctioned.

Some of the other pigs that would be auctioned as well.

I wondered why the sheep's mouths were covered - to prevent them from making noises!

Ba Ba Black Sheep - It was completely black while the previous two were grey/black. It was being washed and groomed for the auction - for higher bids?

I must have come at the right time at the right place - pictures taking of the children and their sheep, by newsmen or the fair committee. I noticed from the fair pamphlet that Junior Livestock Large Animal Auction was held only today and no other days. I asked a lady standing next to me why they take pictures of the sheep's backsides!

Last but not least of the animals I saw this day were the calves.

South West Arizona Stand Down 2008

2008-03-16T14:18:00.005-07:00

Saturday, 15 March 2008

We were enjoying ourselves at the swap meet when Mike was called to play at the South West Arizona Stand Down at the Desert Sun Stadium. Today is the 2nd of the 3 days annual event. I learnt Stand Down is organised to provide support and services to veterans, especially the homeless and the needy.

Watch the Wind

2008-03-02T15:11:00.008-07:00

Sunday, 2 March 2008

The wind blew a neighbour's trash bin onto the middle of the lane! And being fitted with rollers, it continued to move along the middle the road! This emptied bin has not been taken back to the house after the trash had been removed and so became the wind's victim!

Few hours before that, I had to go back into the house to change my church clothes because the wind was blowing my skirt up. And then returning back from church to see the opened lid trash bin moving along the road, in front of our house, amused me!

28th Annual POW-WOW - California

2008-03-01T21:17:00.022-07:00

Saturday, 1 March 2008

It was an early spring celebration at an area adjacent to the Fort Yuma Quechan Reservation in Winterhaven, California. I didn't know that we were in California until Mike told me on the way home. It was only 2 miles north of Yuma, Arizona.

I learnt that in the olden days, a pow-wow is a gathering of Native Americans of any tribe. Nowadays, both Native and non-Native Americans meet to have fun. A dancing session was going on when we arrived. I would have love to stay and watch, but it was unpleasant sitting in the open air with only my hat shading me from the heat and sun! It is only Spring and I thought it would be not too cold (like the winter) and not too hot (like the suummer)!

There was a guy dressed up in an American Indian costume and he happened to be sitting next to me and it was interesting to note that there were a lot of beads on his clothes and shoes. He said it took about 3 months to do the bead work on his clothes. Even his roach were finely beaded (yellow part). It was made of real porcupine hairs and real eagle feathers.

Beautiful colorful necklaces and ear-rings on sale!

The bear and the eagle are the Native American Indians' special animals - symbol of power, etc.

I am impressed by the beautiful bead work - even on hair clips as well!

Another kind of craft from the Native American Indian's heritage - Kachina dolls, based on their spiritual beliefs.

Potteries

This guy had already taken off his headdress when I asked if I could take a picture of him, but nevetheless posed enthusiastically.

Mike said I must try this - frybread - Native American food. It is a flat dough deep fried. This is an Indian taco topped with mashed beans, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes and cut lettuce, served with salsa.

I was so full after eating that and when Mike came back with a flannel cake, which I have not eaten before, I couldn't eat anymore. Anyway, I did tried a few bites. After having a whole flybread, having another deep fried dough is definitely not my cup of tea.

Meeting Irene Bedard was the highlight of our visit to the pow-wow. She is so pretty. This is the first film star in the movie industry that I have met personally! She was "Pocahontas" in the Disney animated film of the same name.

I asked her whether I could have a picture with her. Without hesitation, Irene stood up from her chair, walked and stand next to me. That was so sweet of her. I told her I am also Irene too!

It was surely an interesting visit, learning about the Native-American-Indians, moreso because Mike's maternal grandmother is a Choctaw, and that makes him a Indian as well!

Relief Society's 166th Birthday Party on Chap Goh Mei

2008-02-22T12:08:00.007-07:00

Thursday, 21 February 2008

I was looking forward to Relief Society Birthday celebration this year because this was my first experience in Yuma and US. Relief Society will be 166 years old on the 17 March 2008 and I am proud to be a member of it!

Every party is unique. I thought the purple invitation card was cute. We had fun playing games. And instead of cutting a big birthday cake, we received a birthday cake each in the form of a cupcake and a candle!

For me, tonight party compensated my traditional Chap Goh Mei celebration.

Chap Goh Mei means the 15th night in the Hokkien dialect. It is the 15th day of the Chinese New Year (which started on the 7 February 2008 - the year of the Earth Rat) and marks the end of the 15 days festival. Families would have dinner together, like they did on Chinese New Year's eve. In some places there would be cultural performances, lanterns procession, lion dances, etc.

Chap Goh Mei is also the Chinese Valentine's Day!

Yuma Crossing River Daze Arts & Craft Festival

2008-02-17T17:25:00.009-07:00

Saturday, 16 February 2008

These were what caught my attention...

He was playing to the tune of "Unchained Melody" on the instrument. I don't know what you call that musical instrument.

The imaginations and talents of quilters

A different kind of art. From far they looked like plaques of concrete.

Decorations around the lamp posts?

A Valentine's Day, A State's Birthday & a Friend's Funeral

2008-02-15T16:31:00.023-07:00

14 February 2008

Last year, a friend sent me a story about Valentine's Day that it was originated in the 5th century.

Arizona, born on February 14, 1912, as the 48th state in US, is 96 years old! The sixth largest state in US, 114,006 square miles, is the leading copper producer in the nation. It was once the largest cotton producer in the country.

In the small community, 11 miles south of Holbrook city, the first woman Commander in the Arizona Wing of the Civil Air Patrol was laid to rest. Helen Lois Crofford, born September 1, 1932 in Mesa, Arizona, died Friday, February 8, 2008 in Mesa, Arizona.

Friend's Funeral

She was a friend of Mike. Upon hearing the sad news on Tuesday 12 February, we decided to drive there to attend the funeral service on Thursday 14 February. Being a long drive (6 hrs) we decided to travel Wednesday 13 February and stayed a night at Holbrook.

It was my first experience of an LDS funeral service and witnesssing the dedication of the grave. I am grateful for that experience.

Strangely it felt more windy and colder during the Concluding Service & Interment at the Woodruff Cementery. Altogether, I had 5 layers of clothes, 2 of which were jackets, on my upper body, and 4 layers of clothes on my lower body! The winds were so strong that I have to hold on the hood of the jacket! My hands were so cold even though it was hidden under Mike's flying gloves. It reminded me of the climb to the peak of Mt Kinabalu (Sabah Malaysia) almost 30 years ago!

Mike braved the weather, wearing his CAP uniform and kilt, playing "Going Home" and "Amazing Grace" on the bagpipes, with his bare hands. He was not asked to play for Helen's funeral service. He wanted to. It was the least he could for a departed friend. I was touched.

Sedona

It was past 3 pm. We were in no hurry to drive home to Yuma. We have 4 and an half hours drive left. Since we were passing the city of Sedona, we decided to see the red rocks, one of Arizona's tourist attractions.

The sandstone formations were indeed stunning!

We thought of visiting the original town of Sedona but instead stopped on the way to visit this neat looking craft shop called Son Silver West.

What catches my eyes most are the dried chillis!

I have seen dried chillis being sold in bags and sold by weight, but not hung up in bunches like these!

Highway 66, Holbrook Arizona

2008-02-15T15:27:00.004-07:00

Wednesday, 13 February 2008

Saw this on the wall of a restaurant in Holbrook, showing the states that the famous US Route 66 starting from Illinois - Missouri - Kansas - Oklahoma -Texas - New Mexico - Arizona and ending California. US Route 66 runs through the city of Holbrook!

We drove on the historical highway once from Oatman to Quartsize in November 2007.

According to the http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Highway%2066 there are highways using the same number in other countries as well: Australia (1) Canada (1) France (1) Germany (1) Spain (1) UK (1).

In US itself there is 1 Interstate Highway 66 and there are 39 State Highways using the same number too!

Snow in Arizona

2008-02-15T14:14:00.011-07:00

Wednesday, 13 Wednesday 2008

This was my 2nd time seeing snow The first time was Beaver Utah Rest Stop where I had my first feel of snow too.

I thought the whole state of Arizona would be like Yuma! This happened to be the stretch of the road from Flagstaff Arizona to Holbrook Arizona, that run on a higher attitude. It was probably about 1 and a half hours drive. I thought it looked beautiful. I didn't see that beauty at Beaver Utah because it was plain but with the trees, it was a lovely sight.

Mike asked me what I thought about living in this environment. I told him I would probably die early, due to weather intolerance!

Thursday, 14 February 2008

A storm was forecasted today in Holbrook. There wasn't any storm but strong wind started in the later part of the morning. Driving along the highway from Holbrook to Flagstaff, it started to snow. I thought it was rain at first. Looked like rain to me from the inside of the moving car! The temperature in the car indicated 27 deg F. It was when we parked to get a soda that I saw snow dropping on the side of my window. Snow had already started to accumulate on the car that was parked there!

Turf Soaring School, Peoria Arizona

2008-02-15T12:47:00.012-07:00

Wednesday 13 February 2008

It was about 40 mins drive from the city of Phoenix to get there but it is worth it. I had the chance to visit the turf soaring school where Mike learnt to fly the glider more than 25 years ago.

It brought back sweet memories to be there!

The glider that Mike had flown was still there!

Celebrating the Chinese New Year of the Earth Rat

2008-02-09T11:23:00.000-07:00

Monday, 4 February 2008

It wasn't Chinese New Year's Eve and it wasn't Chinese New Year either but it was Family Home Evening. Since it was only a couple of days to the Chinese New Year (Thursday 7 February), Brother/Sister Ott decided to celebrate it and invited us to join them and their family for dinner.

There was no Chinese New Year festive atmosphere in Yuma. As of the year 2000 census, only 1.5% of the population of 77,515 in Yuma were Asian. So the past days were just like any other ordinary day.

I was impressed with Brother/Sister Ott's enthusiasm in the Chinese tradition. I was also impressed with the decorations they had put up: lanterns outside and inside the house, peach blossom flowers, oranges, angpows, chopsticks and different types of the festive's decorations.

Sister Ott looked good in the dark liver-colored Malaysian Baju Kelawar, standing at the tables that she has set, for the dinner tonight. Brother Ott wore a bright red shirt. They knew that red was the most important color during the Chinese New Year and that 'red' chased away evil and brings in good luck!

Sister Ott said he was a Filipino Santa - that was what his name tag said. And he is because he wore a traditional Filipino shirt - Barong Tagalog. I liked him! I thought he was a Chinese fisherman to me!

What would you wish for the Chinese New Year? What about "Beauty", "Kindness", "Wisdom" and "Knowledge", not forgetting the "Happiness" and "Prosperity" that you would usually greet another on this occasion.

Wishing all my Chinese and non-Chinese friends a HAPPY and PROPEROUS New Year with (1) the blessing of beauty in our eyes to see beauty in people and things in our lives (2) the blessing of kindness in our hearts to render kindness to whoever he/she/it may be (3) the blessing of wisdom in our brains to choose the right (4) the blessing of knowledge in our soul to better ourselves in whatever role we play in the family, home, society, organisation and country.

Tuesday, 5 February 2008

I considered this as part of our celebration, just being together, Brother Ott, Sister Ott, Mike and I.

Brother/Sister Ott thought I would like to go to the beach at Oceanside California since I come from a seaside city. They were right. I loved the familiar sight of a seashore, sea beach with its fine sand and the sound of waves. I would loved the feel of the breeze against my cheek, if it wasn't that cold! I like the place. It was peaceful, clean, organised and not crowded when we visited.

The pier reminded me of the Miri Jetty. People board boats, to work offshore, at the end of the Miri Jetty. Here, people eat at the restaurant located at the end of the pier.

That was not a statue! The pelican was alive and kicking. It didn't move a single bit even when we stood close to it. It must be so used to people walking on the pier and enjoyed the attention it get. Or it could be eyeing the baskets near the fishing rods that were leaning against the rails of the pier, to see if there were opportunities of a free meal.

Anyone for surfing in the cold water? Not for me! I do not know how anyway and I am not interested either.

I like the pier both ways, going out to the sea and coming back to the land

Apart from the few surfers in the Pacific Ocean, I didn't see any other swimmers. There were only a few people, including ourselves, walking the beach. It is a beautiful clean beach.

According to what I gathered from the internet, 4.5 million people visited Oceanside annually and 2.7 million beach visitors were from Memorial Day (May) to Labor Day (September) - the summer months!

The beach lifeguards were definitely taking their holidays now. I thought I passed only one lifeguard tower along the beach and I thought there was no body inside it. The rest of the towers were parked alongside each other near the pier.

I wouldn't like to come here between May-September when the beach would be bustling with visitors. Today was almost heaven to me - sunny, green trees, organised, peaceful - minus the a little too cold breeze!

Wednesday, 6 February 2008

The last day with Brother/Sister Ott for this visit. I am happy we iced our wonderful time with them with a visit to the temple together.

Brother/Sister Ott were the missionary couple who had prepared me in 2006, to enter the temple for the very first time the same year, but did not get to escort me. Who would have known that we would make it up, in their home country this day?

I love the San Diego temple. I think the structure is beautiful.

Don't mind to go again, if the opportunity arises!

Wednesday, 6 February 2008

Today was Chinese New Year's Eve and I wished Lian and Yean were with me for dinner. They would love this place.

Mike & I had a late and filling lunch at the San Diego temple cafeteria, thinking that we would just head back home. Dinner was not in our plan but after visiting the Asian Market and not wanting to be caught in the rush hour, Mike suggested to patronise the Seafood Restaurant that our friends at home had highly recommended.

Oh! I love the Asian Market - plenty of fresh seafood and other meat. There were plenty of choices of Asian products too! I see mostly products from Thailand & Vietnam. I see food stuff from Taiwan, Philippines, Indonesia, China too but little of Malaysia. I would have love to stay in the shop longer. It was in the supermarket that we decided to celebrate Chinese New Year on Thursday and have some friends over to join us.

Crazy Buffet? Don't know why they called it such? It was buffet alright but crazy? Maybe because of the price. It wasn't that cheap. I thought the price was reasonable and the food was good. If I know we were going there I would have reserve my stomach. I love seafood and I didn't feel like eating much more meat as I was still full from lunch. Instead I went for fresh fruits instead - first time I ate so much fruit in one meal! Mike enjoyed himself with the seafood there!

Thanks, Mike, for a wonderful Chinese New Year time with Brother/Sister Ott and the impromptu Chinese New Year's Eve dinner.

2008 Pioneer Day Parade - Wellton

2008-02-03T21:33:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 2 February 2008

Mike got 2nd place in the Open Division in Wellton's 31st Annual Pioneer Day Parade! First time he took part in the parade. Glad he got the award for his participation as a Scottish Highland Bagpiper. 2 miles was not a short walk!

The parade only started at 10 am. Participants were already by at 8 am.

Here are some of the shots I took of the parade.......

Guards

Fire Department - Sparky, the Fire Dog

Gadsden School District Marching Band

Wellton Assembly of God's Covered Wagon and Wooden Horses

Flintsone Car

Barbel Base - United Submarine Veterans Inc.

Coyote Wash Coyotes

Sun Country RV Park Bike Riders

Sun Country RV Park Golf Cars

Tier Drop RV Park Line Dance Group

VFW Post 6790 Women's Auxiliary

Mohawk Valley 4-H Club

Yuma Young Marines

Nostalgia Car Club

Desert Sands Senior RV Park Clowns

Yuma Shrine Club Renegades - Funny seeing adults in small cars!

2005 Cavalier Pro Stock Race Car

Yuma County Library Department

Sally's Social Club

Mardi Gras

2008-02-03T00:29:00.002-07:00

Friday, 1 February 2008

I don't remember where I heard the 2 words "Mardi Gras" before. I must have learnt that during my school days. "Mardi Gras" means "Fat Tuesday" in French. It is the day before Ash Wednesday, the last day before Lent [40 days (not including Sundays) before Easter].

Yuma was celebrating it tonight (Friday) at the Main Street. I was excited to see what it was all about.

First stall that attracted me was the colorful shiny metallic beads necklaces!

Kettle popcorn! I like that! I don't know why they are called kettle popcorn and not Kuali popcorn when they are made in the giant kuali?

It was disapponting to queue and arrive at the distribution table and be told that there are no more foam cups! It was only like 8 pm and there wouldn't be any more cups distributed. They had designated a certain number of cups and when they were gone, that was it. You paid $5 for 8 foams cups and joined another queue for free Gumbo!

Gumbo is a kind of stew that is a staple of the Mardi Gras celebations. I would sure like to try that one day. Tonight I got to try Jambalaya instead! Didn't know Jambalaya is the name of a food. I knew Jambalaya as the name of a song! It cost $3 for a bowl of Jambalaya. I liked it even though it was a little spicy.

Stalls selling colorful headwear - crowns, hats, eye masks, etc.

What was missing in tonight's celebration was a carnival. I met 2 couples, dressed up, and enjoying themselves walking along the street. They were happy I wanted a picture taken with them. One lady presented me a Mardi Gras ring and another lady placed her headwear onto my head for the shot.

Anybody for Desert Cajuns?

I ended up with beads necklaces (which were distributed free by one stall) and $4 kettle popcorn.

Snowbirds

2008-01-21T20:59:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 19 January 2007

The first time Mike remarked that the "Snowbirds" would be here from the month of October to March, I thought they were really winged birds that escaped the cold of their original habitat.

I learnt later that the term "Snowbirds" refers to people and not winged creatures, who have indeed escaped the cold climate of their home city/state. Some of the "Snowbirds" only stay from January to March.

So far, I have made met "Snowbirds" from Canada, Idaho, California & Utah. Brother Jerry & Sister Colleen are Snowbirds too, and I knew them when they were missionaries in Malaysia. So nice to see them again.

Unexpected Visit

2008-01-13T21:22:00.001-07:00

Sunday, 13 January 2008

We had a memorable day with them. What is that on the shoulder of Brother Bill? It is the monument of the Mormon Battalion in West Wetlands Park! Didn't intend to have the picture look like that!

Going to California? If I am a fairy, I would have a bridge across this Colorado River and they could just drive across. California is indeed on the other side of the river!

Saturday, 12 January 2008

We were talking to each other on the phone and I had the impression they were at their home in Utah. The next thing I knew they were standing in front of me!!

Mike was busy with his fishing rods. I was reading aloud from a book. There was this car that pulled up. I thought to myself "why is this car stopping at our parking spot? I forgot how their car look like! They came up of the car and walked towards us. Mike recognised them straight away, stood up to greet them excitedly while I sat glued to my chair! That was rude of me. I was "in coma" (that was how Brother Bill described me). My mind was thinking "I just spoke to them! They are in Utah". I was in shock, I don't know for how many seconds or mins! Who could have known? It was a most pleasant and welcoming surprise!

I learnt something new from them - dipping dots! Beaded ice-cream! I have not seen that before. Ice Cream of the Future ??? I don't know about that!

I ordered Mint/Chocolate. Hmm, not bad. But I think I still prefer the creamy ice cream.

Churchs Chicken

2008-01-08T19:22:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, 8 January 2007

There was the aroma of fried chicken in the air. It was Tuesday. Michael remembered the Churchs chicken are cheaper this day. He asked how I felt about having fried chicken for dinner. I quickly say 'yes'. I didn't feel like cooking tonight. And furthermore, I have not tried Church's chicken yet.

Churchs chicken was named after a person called Church. At first I thought it originated from a church (Christians prayer house)

Their prices for 10 pcs of chicken legs/thighs on Tuesdays & Wednesdays was $6.99.

Other days, 10 pcs of legs/thighs cost $7.99 (excl. tax).

$7.72 (incl. 0.73 cts tax) for 10 pcs of chicken thighs & legs - that is cheap!

I like them, especially the crispy skin. They were freshly fried and tasty. We will try the 'spicy' next time!

Swap Meet, Quartsize

2007-12-26T20:37:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, 26 December 2007

Come January, the town would be buzzling with activities. I read that Quartzsite plays host to the largest swap meet in the United States during the winter months. Just for fun, we stopped to see what is available this afternoon.

The Coca Cola toy car and the venting machine caught my eyes because I remembered my friend's daughter collect coca cola things. I wouldn't be able to buy these things for her but I thought I could send her pictures of them.

There were all kinds of stuff being sold. There was 1 big scorpion made of copper on sale for $10. The lady vendor withdrew it from her table when I called Mike's attention to it. She said she would make more money if she melt it, being copper, unless we decided to pay $10 for it then.

Inside the big tent, were plenty of T-shirts and clothes sold. Someone jokingly asked whether the terrier is for sale too! The lady vendor said "oh no!". It must be her pet. Isn't the terrier cute? I wonder if it climb up to the top of the pile itself?

Christmas Presents

2007-12-26T20:27:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, 25 December 2007

It was Christmas morning. It was interesting to watch the excitement and expression of each child as they opened each present.

Being only 1 and half years old, Addison got help opening her presents. She can't say 'thank you' yet but she definitely have a great time touching, squeezing, tasting and exploring.

Aunt Merri got a 'tiger' for her Christmas present. I don't mind having one myself because it is soft and cuddly! Addison had fun playing with it too!

Landon was thrilled with his little town set. Is Santa Claus preparing him to be a town planner?

The game 'computer' will surely keep 7 yr old Sheridan busy for a while!

Visiting Friends in Mesa Arizona

2007-12-26T20:22:00.000-07:00

Monday, 24 December 2007

Being in Mesa, I had to visit Sister Mayce, who have just arrived in US and spending Christmas in Mesa. It is good to see Brother Spencer again!

Thought of giving a surprise visit to Brother Austin but instead visited with his family instead.

I Wear Sun Glasses

2007-12-26T20:21:00.001-07:00

Sunday, 23 December 2007

Whenever we drove on the 16th street, I saw it, but didn't take a picture until this afternoon. I thought that was an interesting way of advertising!

Celebrating Winter Solstice in Yuma

2007-12-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 22 December 2007

While Chinese celebrated "Dong Zhi" (Winter Solstice) in other parts of the world, we had our own celebration here in Yuma. The little Asian group in Yuma had their Christmas party tonight. We didn't had "tong yuan" (pearl soup) but we had plenty of other delicacies.

Earlier today, some of us went carolling. I am glad I went carolling with them to the (1) Copper Hills House (2) Desert Rose Apartments (3) Beehive House and (4) SunQuest Village .

I am glad the senior citizens living in the respective homes enjoyed our singing. My heart went out to them. I thought about the absence of their loved ones, beside them. There were only 4 ladies, at the Beehive house, who came out into the sitting room, to listen to us. 2 of them looked so sad to me. I felt sad for them being there instead of being around their children and grandchildren, especially during festive seasons.

Playing for the Salvation Army

2007-12-15T16:56:00.001-07:00

Saturday, 15 December 2007

There would be either 1 or more people standing outside the big shopping centers, ringing their bells.

The Salvation Army are collecting donations to help the poor, to buy them food, toys and clothes for the Christmas season. This collection usually starts after the Thanksgiving Day and ends the day before Christmas.

After the "Wreaths Across America" ceremony at the Yuma Armed Forces Park, we drove to the Sam's Club. There were 3 young girls ringing their bells. Most of the people who inserted their money into the donation box were seniors.

Mike wanted to help with the donation by playing his bagpipes. I thought that was sweet of him. In a way, the music did draw people to the spot!

He did the same outside the Wal-Mart after that!

Christmas Wreaths Across America

2007-12-15T12:43:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 15 December 2007

Looks like there are 3 Memorial Days in the country:

(1) Memorial Day (last Monday of May) is a US federal holiday, commemorates U.S. men and women who have died in military service to their country

(2) National POW/MIA Recognition Day (3rd Friday of September) honors U.S. men and women who have returned and those still missing and unaccounted for from the nation's wars.

(3) Wreaths Across America (December) (a) remembers the fallen (b) honors those who served (c) teaches our children the value of freedom.

In 1992, Merrill and Karen Worcester (who now owns the Worcester Wreath Company) began a tradition of donating and placing wreaths on the headstones of the Nation's fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia..

This year will mark the 16th season of the wreaths being donated to remember our fallen Heroes during the Christmas season.

The ceremony started at 9 am at the Yuma Armed Forces park.

There were six wreaths, "one for each branch of the military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine, Coast Guard) with the sixth wreath to remember those still missing in action".

A young marine corp veteran played the bugle

Mike, a veteran himself, in his civil air patrol shirt and kilt, played the "Amazing Grace" on his bagpipes. It was the best I have heard him played so far. It was perfect and I felt like crying.

Visting Teaching

2007-12-14T20:14:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 16 December 2007

For the first time in Yuma, we did our visiting teaching! Sister Ruth & I visited Sister Lynna and Sister Elizabeth. It was great! I loved it!

Saw a great dane during the visit. I have never seen such a big dog before, except in pictures!

Friday, 14 December 2007

For the first time, my visiting teachers came and taught me. Sister Lourdes is from Uruguay & Sister Suphattra is from Thailand. And I am from Malaysia! Isn't that interesting? And we lived a few houses from each other. We come from different countries and different backgrounds but we believe in the same gospel principles. And joining us, was Sister Patricia from the 7th Ward. We had fun eating rice and chicken curry for lunch.

I looked forward to next month's visiting teaching because I am going to cook a different Malaysian dish - Beef Rendang - for them to try.

Yuma Arizona Stake Family Christmas Fireside

2007-12-10T15:17:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 9 November 2007

It was a special music program, put forwarded by the Yuma Stake Single Adults tonight. This was the best Christmas Fireside I have attended so far. I love every minute of it, listening to the singers, pianists, guitarist, flutist, violinists and a story-teller. One thing about having performances in the chapel is that we can't clap our hands!

Field of Vegetables

2007-12-10T15:13:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 9 December 2007

It was hay in summer but now the field is filled with green leafy vegetables! I am impressed!

A Night in Bethlehem

2007-12-10T14:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 8 December 2007

Thanks, Sister Rebecca, for allowing me to post the pictures that you took, in this blog.

Visit and buy something from the Gift Shop

Fruits from the Fruits Shop

Eggs & cheese from the Dairy Shop

There were also a Bread (Pita Shop), a Cookies & Pastries (Bakery Shop) and a Cider (Wine Shop).

To maintain peace, Roman Soldiers watched.

Travellers not dressed in the biblical attire could rent clothes (sheets, etc) from the tailor shop. Mike & I were called to run this booth.

Most of the clothes were rented to provide additional cover from the cold! Quilts, were rented also, to rest from their journey, and to watch the nativity play.

An interesting Christmas party, organised by our 5th Ward! It was held on the field outside the Stake building. I think I would have enjoyed more if it wasn't outside. I don't like the cold! I think there would be more people also if it was held inside the building but then it wouldn't be like 'Bethlehem'.

Temples in Utah

2007-12-01T19:31:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 1 December 2007

All the temples are beautiful! I had the opportunity to see 4 temples in Utah last week.

23 Nov (Fri) - St. George Temple - Went with Brother/Sister Telford to hear the missionaries sang at the temple ground and to see the lights and the nativity displayed there. I would have love to visit longer if it wasn't that cold! It was only a little after 6 pm and it was already dark. I was never more anxious to get back to the car!

24 Nov (Sat) - Bountiful Temple - It was wonderful to be inside the temple with Sister Jensen and her daughter, Julie.

26 Nov (Sun) - Salt Lake Temple - While visiting the roof garden of the Conference Center with Brother/Sister Jacobs, I took this shot.

The Salt Lake Temple is so beautiful with the lights on:

28 Nov (Wed) - Provo Temple - This temple was easy to find as it was near the Provo Mission Training Center.

Morning in Provo, Utah

2007-12-01T08:44:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, 28 November 2007

Last morning in Utah, for this trip. Rocky mountains are definitely one of Utah's 3 distinct geological features!

Maybe that is why it is cold in Utah because there are mountains here and there! I felt cold even though I had more than 4 layers of clothing! My clothes felt like that they have been refrigerated. My hands also felt like they have been refrigerated, even with the gloves on! I need to get thicker clothing for my 'always cold' body in this kind of season in Utah !

Funny there were snow on the top of this mountain

while there was none on this side.

Great Salt Lake, Utah

2007-12-01T00:38:00.001-07:00

Monday, 26 November 2007

According to Wikipedia, the Great Salt Lake is the largest salt lake in the Western Hemisphere, the fourth largest terminal lake in the world and the 33rd largest lake on earth.

According to the tour brochure, the Great Salt Lake is the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi River. It is currently 75 miles long by 28 miles wide covering 1,700 square miles. Size and depth vary greatly with seasonal evaporation and precipitation. Salinity is too high to support fish and most other aquatic species, however, brine shrimp, brine flies and several types of algae thrive in the lake.

Yes, it is a big lake. Couldn't see the shape of it. Looked like I am looking at a sea or ocean. Thought why I am taking pictures of nothing but water. I am glad I did because they turned out pleasing to my eyes! I love the blue water and the blue skies!

Antelope Island State Park, Salt Lake City, Utah

2007-12-01T00:15:00.000-07:00

Monday, 26 November 2007

This is the largest island in the Great Salt Lake. According to the brochure, Antelope Island comprises 28,022 acres, and is 15 miles long and 4.5 miles across at its widest point.

We saw bighorn sheep last Saturday while travelling to St. George. This morning saw the same kind of sheep in this Antelope Island. Can you see them in the picture? Maybe I should try zooming in next time then I can get a bigger picture of the bighorn sheep. Anyway, I like the surrounding scenery. It is not green but nevertheless uniquely beautiful.

This was a zoom shot of a bison - not bad! According to the brochure, bison are the island's most famous residents.

I don't know how big the buffalo is. Maybe the buffalo statue, behind all of us is of the life size?

We didn't see the other animals that were mentioned in the brochure - bobcats, coyotes, reptiles, shorebirds, waterfowl, raptors, chukars and different kinds of birds.

Conference Centre, Salt Lake City, Utah

2007-11-30T23:54:00.000-07:00

Monday, 26 November 2007

It is big! It can seat more than 21,00 people! Hope I get the chance to attend the church conference one day!

Museum of Church History & Art, Salt Lake City, Utah

2007-11-30T22:57:00.000-07:00

Monday, 26 November 2007

Having learnt the history of the church, this visit enhanced my understanding. How could one not believe after visiting this museum and seeing for themselves the actual writings and other materials related to the history of the restoration of the gospel? I would like to come back and visit this place again.

Oliver Cowdery's original transcript of the Book of Mormon.

The printing press that printed the first Book of Mormon.

Liberty Jail - the letter that Joseph Smith wrote.

Battle of Crooked River: Captain David Patten's rifle

Pioneers - Handcart

Painting of Lehi's Dream

Other Paintings

An Angel

Display of "Italy" nativity

The Pulpit

The Angel "Moroni'

A quilt showing the different prophets

The Birth of Christ, in a manger.

A Pioneer's Log House

This is the Place Heritage Park, Salt Lake City, Utah

2007-11-30T22:23:00.000-07:00

Monday, 26 November 2007

The Monument commemorating the 100th anniversary of the the arrival of the first Mormon pioneers to Salt Lake valley. The Pioneers entered the valley on 24 July 1847.

Surrounded by mountains

Pioneers giving thanks to God

Statistics of the Handcart Companies who arrived at the Valley.

The Visitors' Centre

What a handcart looks like, in miniature size.

Sunday in Salt Lake City, Utah

2007-11-30T21:16:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 25 November 2007

I was looking forward to attending church meetings with Brother/Sister Jensen this day. What we experienced this morning, instead, was absolutely special, and worth the time spent.

We went to the Salt Lake Tabernacle to attend a live 30-minute broadcast of "Music & the Spoken Word" by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir from 9:30-10:00 am. I was actually seeing and listening to the choir live! I loved every second of it. The Tabernacle and the Choir were beautiful beyond words. I could sit there and listen to the music forever.

It was also a special broadcast for the Tabernacle Choir because it was the final time their organist, John Longhurst, was accompanying them. John had been their organist for the past 30 years.

Making this visit special for me, was the company of Brother/Sister Jensen, their daughter Julie and her son.

After the show, we walked across to the North Visitors' Centre, passing display of the nativity. First "The Shepherds who watched their flocks"

Then "The Wisemen"

And the baby "Jesus" with his mother "Mary" and father "Joseph"

We were thinking whether to go to Sunday sacrament meeting at 11 am. Since most of us have not seen the film "Joseph Smith The Prophet of the Restoration" yet, we decided to stay and view the 69 minutes film depicting the life and legacy of the founding prophet. I am glad we watched the film because it had strengthened my testimony of Joseph Smith and the restored gospel.

Cove Fort Historic Site, Utah

2007-11-30T20:35:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 24 November 2007

Cove Fort historic site is in Millard County, Utah. We were shown into the cabin of Ira Hinckley, an ancestor of President Gordon B. Hinckley.

According to http://www.covefort.com/, Cove Fort is the only fort built by the Latter-day Saints in the 1800's that still stands. Very interesting - the walls for the fort were made of volcanic rock and limestones.

Snow at Beaver, Utah

2007-11-30T20:01:00.001-07:00

Saturday, 24 November 2007

Winter is not here yet, officially about 1 month to go. No other places on our way from St. George to Bountiful, Utah, showed any snow except here in Beaver. For the very first time in my life, I am really seeing snow! Looked exactly like the 'snow' in our freezer at home!

and holding it! The ones that had not hardened were soft!

Felt like I am inside a big freezer! There wasn't any snow when we passed the place, on our way home on Wed 28 November.

The Journey from Arizona to Utah

2007-11-30T19:16:00.000-07:00

Friday, 23 November 2007

Wittmann, Maricopa County (Arizona): Visited Nadaburg School where Michael went when he was a little boy.

On the border between the state of Nevada and Arizona, 30 miles from Las Vegas (Nevada), was the Hoover Dam

Bighorn Sheep grazing

I think the mountains are beautiful.

Stake Relief Society Sisters Temple Day

2007-11-18T19:06:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 17 November 2007

Thanks to Mike. If it was not for Mike's encouragement, I wouldn't have join this trip.

There were about 50 of us going on the bus. 6 of us were from the same ward, the rest are from the other wards in Yuma. The other Sisters went in their own private cars. I understood there were altogether more than 100 Sisters participating in today's Relief Society activity. .

My 2nd time to the Mesa Arizona temple. Being Saturday, there were a lot of people outside and inside the temple. These 2 couples were married today!

Except for the tiring 6 hrs bus ride of the day, I am glad I took the opportunity to visit the Lord's house and the opportunity to know other Sisters from the other wards.

and saw grapefruit tree for the very first time! There were a row of the trees in the temple ground! Reminded me of the mangoes in my Mum's garden

Mesa - International Nativity Exhibit

2007-11-18T18:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 17 November 2007

This was my 2nd visit to the Visitors Center of the Mesa Arizona Temple. The bus was not back to the temple yet. It would be 2 hours plus before the bus would return Yuma.

On the grass in front of the Center, facing the main road, are 3 wise men!

The 3 wise men were going to visit the new born baby Jesus!

International Nativity Exhibit said 23 November to 31 December 2007 - I wonder why? It was already opened to the visitors.

United States

United States and Japan (with the gong)

Japan and China

France

Italy

Africa

Mexico

Peru

Germany

Nicaragua

This was not part of the International Nativity Exhibit. It stood alone.

Oakman to Quartzsite

2007-11-04T23:33:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 4 November 2007

The GPS got us out from Oakman on the Route 66 to Highway 95. Mike said I must take a shot of the road sign. I learnt that it was one of the original federal routes and was the longest highway in US, linking Chicago to Los Angeles.

The GPS guided us on the Highway 95 leading to the Lake Havasu resorts along the Colorado river. In July, I was attracted to the site but we were travelling so fast and so was not prepared to take any pictures. Hoping to stop there on our way home from Needles, but the GPS led us on the highway 95, on the California side, as our destination was Yuma.

On this late afternoon the resort didn't look that attractive to me anymore. Maybe because this time there were no activities, no boats, no people on the Colorado river. It was very quiet.

Anyway, I think the Colorado river is a unique sight. It looked clear.

And the mountains - they are special too!

Oatman Arizona

2007-11-04T22:18:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 4 November 2007

In July Mike's mother told us to visit Oatman and see the donkeys. And that was what we did today.

I think the desert, the mountains and the blue sky, along the 20+ miles road from Needles to Oatman, are an interesting sight in their way.

I was told there were over a hundred donkeys living in the mountains. What I saw today were less than 10. They would disappear to their habitat at night. The donkeys come to the town to look for food - they know people would hand out carrots to them. Sliced Carrots were sold at $1 per packet. Luckily Mike was able get a quick shot like this. The donkeys were always on the move!

Initially I was afraid because I thought they might kick me (like I saw in the movies) but interestingly these wild donkey were not afraid of people. It must be the carrots they get. One have to be careful when walking in the street. There were a lot of dried donkey's poo and there were also freshly excreted poo. I saw them!. I stepped on cow's dung when I was less than 6 years old. Yak!

Messages written, near the packed of sliced carrots, at the shops, said not to feed the baby donkeys. I was told that the baby donkeys feed on their mother's milk. Here is a baby donkey following its mother.

I think this is the only street in the town and both sides are souvenir shops.

It is an interesting historical place with the mountains all around it.

There were 2 cowboys live shows on the street. We saw the morning show. There were 4 of them and these are 2 of them outside their business outlet "Outlaw Willie's"

Vidal Junction California

2007-11-04T20:54:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 3 November 2007

Our last visit to Mike's parents in Needles was in July 21st. Back then, we took the highway passing Lake Havasu, which is on the east side of the Colorado river in Arizona state. This time we travelled all the way, on the the west side of the Colorado river, in California state.

And came to this interesting store in Vidal Junction, where we stopped for toilet and drinks.

Primary 2007 Theme

2007-11-02T22:07:00.000-07:00

Friday, 2 November 2007

Being called to the Primary, I thought I better give my support to the activity tonight. I also thought the children were going to give some kind of presentation or something, with respect to the 2007 Theme: I'll Follow Him in Faith" or the October Theme: I show my faith in Jesus Christ when I share the gospel with others. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).

Well, it turned out to be a presentation for the children instead. I am not 'children' but I enjoyed it very much.

Room 1 saw Jesus as a baby with his parents Joseph (Harold) & Mary (Andrea). The baby was real, not a toy. This +- 2 months old baby belongs to this beautiful couple.

Next saw the 3 disciples of Jesus Christ: James (Brother Lemmon), Peter (Bishop Snow) and John (Brother Cook). Isn't that wonderful that the ward's presidency acted as the 1st presidency of the church in the former days.

We then moved to Room 2 where we saw the prophet Nephi (Brother Chris) of the promised land.

Then Mary Magdalene (Sister Camilla).

Then the "Nephites" (Mark, Janis & their daughter Whitney) from the land Bountiful.

Lastly we moved to Room 3 where the prophet Joseph Smith (Brother Blair) bore his testimony to the restoration of the gospel and the Book of Mormon.

I am impressed with the children's reverence during the whole presentation. I am impressed with the cast. I am glad I came. It has been a wonderful and spiritual experience.

Halloween 2007

2007-11-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, 31st October 2007

Mike asked me whether I would like to stay home and wait for the children to come to the house for "Trick-or-Ttreat" or participate in the annual Tri-Ward Trunk-or-Treat at the church park lot, which included dinner.

I thought it would be fun to join the church activity. This would be my first experience with "Trunk-or-Treat". It was definitely a good time to socialise with the members in a different environment, other than the Sunday meetings. Also this would be the first social, since I joined, whereby all the 3 wards (3rd, 5th & 9th) come together and have fun.

Members were asked to bring, if we could, a pot of chili, salad, cookies, or cupcakes. We bought a box of cupcakes from Wal-Mart.

Dinner was fun. There were rolls, sausages, buns, meat, salad, lots of different chilis, cookies, cupcakes, brownies, etc.

After dinner, children walk from one trunk to another for "trick-or-treat".

A young marine giving treats from her magic potion pot.

Come and join me for a free ride to the other world - hearst, coffin.

The haunted house

Spooky trunk

Another spooky trunk

Come and listen to our spooky music

He looked serious? Looking after a spooky car is a serious business otherwise the big boss will come after you!

I wonder how it would feel to drive up behind this truck in the middle of the night, in the middle of the jungle, where there are no other lights except for the light from the moon and the car lights, where there are no sounds except the sounds of the owls and the car engine.

Jack in The Box with his reaper friend.

Green Ripper?

The Hollow Man?

Not the Executioner and Nick the Scream

Skelebones

She is such a sweet angel

Captain Jack Sparrow? And Snow White

Sparky, the Fire Dog

A 'Chinese' American.

Crafted pumpkins on the floor

Be careful! It sways right and left continually, staring at every car that passed the house. It might jump on you when you least expect it!

Pumpkins for Halloween

2007-10-18T12:41:00.000-07:00

Thursday, 18 October 2007

They are huge compared to the ones in Malaysia. Pumpkins sold at Wal-Mart.

Business as usual

2007-10-18T10:57:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, 17 October 2007

It amused me watching Jimmy, Sondra, John and his assistant sitting on the floor, doing business. Can't resist capturing this moment. Reminded of the people of the Asian countries!

The Otts' Visit

2007-10-14T20:19:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 14 October 2007

They were the missionary couple in the Miri-Sarawak-Malaysia branch from September 2005 to January 2007. It is indeed a joy to see them again, this time in their own homeland. Mike & I are honored that they came to our home to stay last night with us and went to church with us this morning.

Look! Elder Ott is wearing a 'Sarawak' T-shirt. Sister Ott is wearing a 'Halloween' T-shirt - Halloween is coming soon!

Didn't expect that I will receive my new calling this morning. What made it special was Elder/Sister Ott were there when the presidency set me apart.

What is the word that the young people say nowadays? Cool! They looked cool in this sports car. Going home. And home is 4-5 hours to go. Love you, Elder/Sister Ott. Thank you for the visit. Enjoyed your company very much. We hope to see you again!!

New Calling - Primary Worker

2007-10-14T20:17:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 14 October 2007

As requested, I have been released as the Ward's Visiting Teaching Coordinator this morning. I wrote to the Bishop that I was not up to any callings for the time being but................

The Lord has a different job for me this time. Guess what? A Primary worker. Well! Maybe I need to be exposed to a different environment for a change.

4 months ago, I was called (3 June) and set apart (10 June) as the 5th Ward's Visiting Teaching Coordinator.

Visiting teaching is my favourite calling in Malaysia. I love to visit with the Sisters and because of that there was a special bond between us. I learnt first-hand knowledge of them and their circumstances. I understand them and the trials they faced. I forgot myself and it taught me to be more sensitive and loving to others.

Visiting Teaching coordinating is different. You collect visiting reports and submit the overall findings. I didn't get to fellowship with the Sisters and until to date I don't feel connected to any of the Sisters in the Ward, except for one. I have only submited one report.

Maybe I am not friendly enough. Maybe I wasn't open and talkative enough in the Relief Society Meetings. Maybe I didn't understand the American culture, the Sisters here and the way things are done here. I do know one thing. I was not as independent as I was in Malaysia - transport-wise. I had the blessing of my own transport to drive myself to visit any Sister there.

18 More Days to Halloween

2007-10-14T19:28:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 13 October 2007

Halloween was originally a pagan festival - night of witches. I prefer it being regarded as All Hallows Eve or All Saints' Eve. Considered one of the most profitable festivals, no wonder the stores are filled of all sorts of Halloween stuff.

The bags attracted me

Ghosts, witches and plenty of packed treats for the children.

Just for the fun of it, we bought a few decorations and a packet of treats.

Field of Sprinklers

2007-10-10T15:35:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 7 October 2007

The field was being sprinkled with water, in preparation to plant ?????? Didn't get a picture of it until the evening when a friend asked if I would like to go with her to take a picture. This is what I got.

Deafening Bagpipes

2007-10-10T14:30:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 6 October 2007

It is unique. I like it. But my ears can't take it when Mike practise in the house!

Hearing recorded bagpiped music from the CD is different from the real thing at home! I had to retreat to a room and admire the music from there when Mike play his bagpipes at home. My ears can't stand - it is deafening to be in the same room where Mike is practising! It is not extremely loud when he practise the chanter but it is still a little too loud for me!

Mike is a descendant of the Scottish clan Matheson. Today he was asked to play "Amazing Grace" at a memorial service at the Yuma Golf & Country Club.

Wellton - POW/MIA Day

2007-09-22T15:14:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 22 September 2007

It was POW/MIA (Prisoners of War / Missing In Action) day for the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 6790 Wellton. Wellton is a town, 29 miles from Yuma. I like the place. It is peaceful.

Michael is a VFW member. He fought in the Korean War when he was a teenager! This morning he played "Amazing Grace" with his bagpipes outside the building and played again inside the building to close the ceremony.

The constitution

A tree of bulbs, with names of POW/MIA on them.

I find these pictures interesting: the different animals that were selected to symbolise the army, navy, airforce, marine and coast guard.

As we were driving away, I saw this. I don't know what it is. Wellton is originally known as a Well Town and history said it drilled water wells to service the railroad.

There is a new sheriff in town

2007-09-22T14:32:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, 19 September 2007

There is a new sheriff in town! The business has been operating for 3-1/2 months and today we have a small opening ceremony in the office.

I didn't like the cake. It was too sweet for my tooth!

Su was happy to cut the cake and Nick is anxious to have a bite!

Jimmy, Ron & Judy enjoying themselves

San Diego - SeaWorld Adventure Park

2007-09-12T15:42:00.000-07:00

Friday, 7 September 2007

Genesis 1:20-21 And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven. And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.

YES! They are some of the wonders of His creation.

Dolphin Discovery, at Dolphin Stadium, was the first show we attended. Her name was Dolly and she could jump! The stadium was already packed and the show was almost starting. We sat down on the first row, on entering, which happened to be the highest. And that suited me. Because the sun was shining hot, I opened my umbrella and it didn't block anyone's view from behind. Not too lucky though because the lady in front kept standing up to take pictures!

Next was the "Clyde and Seamore's Risky Rescue" show at Sea Lion & Otter Stadium. Interesting to watch the 2 sea lions and the big walrus worked with their trainers.

The famous 'Shamu' and the show "Believe" at the Shamu Stadium. It looked like the whales are communicating with their trainers at the back, before the show.

They are saying "Hello" with their tails! Are they smart?

You have been warned! If you don't want to get wet, sit on higher row. The water was cold! Splash!

Now to the best part of the show, at least for me! To see them jump!

There were a lot of stars in the tide pool. We were told to handle the starfish with care, to place them back gently on the bottom of the shallow pool, as soon as we have taken pictures of it. They are uniquely beautiful and soft to hold.

Now the fishes in the Aquarium de la Mer and the World of the Sea Aquarium. They are colorful!

Freshwater Aquarium - Looked like the fishes that I ate back in Malaysia. I am no good with names. I was told that the left side is the Tarpon and the right side is the Tuna fish.

Sharks! We were able to see them swimming above us while walking through the submerged acrylic viewing tube. I don't know how many kinds of sharks are there but I noticed the following 2 are different from their mouths.

I am not sure whether their tails are different. And for the jaws, there is big model of jaw before the exit.

Now the Penguins! The air in the building was cold cold!

These are Jackass (African or blackfooted) penguins! They are penguins too but they don't dwell in the cold!

Flamingo Cove - so many flamingoes and ducks as well

The fourth show we attended - "Pets Rule!" at the Pet's Playhouse. I didn't dare to use my camera after 1 of the trainer push the hydrant and water shoot out. We happened to be sitting in the front row. This was unexpected. There was not warning! Luckily at that time, my camera is inside my bag and I didn't dare to take it out again. I enjoyed the show very much. There were dogs, cats, pigs, and I forgot what else? They were running here and there.

SeaWorld Adventure Park - I wondered why these animals are here. Anyway dogs are my favourite animal and I had a picture of this dog (Shih Tzu? Sky Terrier?) sitting on top of a small platform. Reminded me of my dogs before ........ (they are clever)

Like any other parks, there is not enough time to see all. Maybe next time. These are some of the things that I thought were interesting......

The Manatee Rescue - It was not opened. At least I have pictures of the statues outside

The unique structure on the bayside

The balls hanging from the tree

And the many many strollers parked outside the stadium

San Deigo California Temple

2007-09-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

Friday, 7 September 2007

All the temples are beautiful, whether it is Manila Philippines, Mesa Arizona, Los Angeles. This morning Mike & I were blessed to visit the San Diego California temple. We didn't enter the temple but we were able to see what it is like inside from the pictures shown by a missionary couple, whom we met in the temple grounds.

A view from the parking lot:

A view from a different side of the temple ground:

Just magnificent!

Anaheim - Knott's Berry Farm

2007-08-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

Monday, 30 July 2007

I thought we were going to see real berries at a farm and the process of them being turned into jam. I would like that very much. Nevertheless I like the visit today even though I didn't get to pick any berries. I like the Cowboy and Indian setting of the theme park.

This particular 'farm' that we visited have the same name and claimed as the first America's Theme Park. I think I enjoyed this park more than the Disneyland Park that Mike and I went 2 days ago.

The Grand Entrance

Greeting visitors was a statue of a couple dancing and rotating at the centre above a bucket, squ the belly juices oozing downwards?

I liked the cowboy environment in the "Ghost Town".

Going on the train ride on the "Calico Railroad"

Beware of the 'robbers'

The above actor was also performing at the Calico Courthouse Square

There was a 'shoot out' on the street of the 'Ghost Town'

Catch the performance on the 'Calico Saloon Stage'

An Old School house

and the "school's Principal" waiting for his students to arrive

"Indian Trials" - Mike pointed to where his anceestors were from

A House made of bottles

This is the most enjoyable part of the visit for me - watching Snoopy and his ice skating friends performing at Charles M. Schulz Theatre. It was just superb! The costumes were colorful. The music was lovely.

Another open-air entertainment - the Wild West Stunt Show!

Would be interesting to sit in the stationary wagons and watch the show from there.

Last but not least, visting with our 2 friendly stationary friends!

Anaheim 3rd Ward

2007-08-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 29 July 2007

It is church time again! Grateful for the opportunity to visit the Anaheim 3rd Ward. Beautiful building.

And beautiful Sister Maryanne from Hawaii. We visited each other after the meeting. I told her I liked the lei that she wore and asked her how long she took to string the flowers. Next thing I knew she hung the lei around my neck!

Anaheim California - Disneyland Park

2007-08-02T09:30:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 28 July 2007

Having been to Disneyland Park (Paris) in 1994, I was curious how Disneyland Park (Anaheim in California) would be like. Here goes.......

Outside the Disneyland Park, after disembarking from the Mickey & Friends tram that we rode from the car park.

Ticketing Booth

People entering and going out

The distinctive disneyland building. Nobody will miss this. The first landmark on entering.

On the "Main Street, U.S.A"

A performance

Another group of performers with different kind of musical instruments - trash bins!

End of the street to greet visitors - statue of the founder of Disneyland, Walter Elias Disney and his most famous frictional character, Mickey Mouse.

The fairly tale castle in front of "Fantasyland". A paradise for children. I remembered Lian and Yean were thrilled with the rides in Disneyland Park (Paris): Alice in Wonderland, Storybook Land Canal Boats, Peter Pan, Pinocchio, Snow White, etc. etc. I had fun myself riding with them as well!

I think I enjoyed "Tomorrowland" most on this visit. I got to watch a 3-D movie for the very first time. And the lucky movie happened to be "Honey, I Shrunk the Audience". It was fun on the "Stars Tours"

Visited the "Haunted Mansion" at "New Orleans Square". The big house really looked haunted, with the ravens flying above it.

It was an enjoyable visit. Didn't try as many rides as I did in Disneyland Park (Paris). I think I am not as courageous as I was then. The more older the more fearful I am of heights!

Los Angeles California Temple

2007-08-02T09:10:00.000-07:00

Friday, 27 July 2007

So grateful for this opportunity to escort a family who went to the temple for their very first time. For Mike and me, it was our first visit to the Los Angeles California temple.

The statue of the Angel Moroni standing on top of the temple.

Some of the beautiful landscape surrounding the temple

Sand Dunes and Rocky Mountains

2007-08-02T08:41:00.000-07:00

Thursday, 26 July 2007

It was a different scene in California. Instead of cactus, it was miles of sand dunes. That was the scene on the highway from Yuma to San Diego.

and rocky mountains.

It rained in Yuma

2007-07-24T16:15:00.001-07:00

Tuesday, 24 July 2007

For the first time in 3 months, it rained in Yuma for about half an hour this morning! I wished it was raining dogs and cats. A friend said it only rained once during the past 6 months. It was then at night and it was only a few minutes of drizzle. This morning was a little more than a drizzle and after that, the weather felt like back in Malaysia. It was not hot and not cold. I liked it. Someone said he didn't like it because it was humid.

Lake Havasu City - London Bridge

2007-07-24T15:00:00.000-07:00

Friday, 20 July 2007

I remembered visiting London bridge when I was in London in 1994 and when Mike said we were visiting London bridge in Lake Havasu City I thought he was joking. There is indeed a London bridge in the state of Arizona, US. What I didn't know is their histories.

Visibly from the area, you can see the flags of USA, UK and the state of Arizona, flying next to each other

I am in the City of London!

The pigeons are visiting as well, but on the left side only

I guess to bright or too hot for them since the sun is setting on the right side

Near the bridge - stalls

Dixie Belle, the paddlewheel boat that cruise on the Lake Havasu.

And the other boats

Containers, Mountains

2007-07-23T13:43:00.001-07:00

Friday, 20 July 2007

Container after container passing. A regular sight when travelling between cities. I have been trying to get a picture of it. Either they are too far or I was too slow with my camera.

I think the mountains are beautiful. Someone has climbed the highest mountain in this picture. There is a USA flag at the peak, which I can't capture with my camera :)

This is actually a resort area. There are houses at the foot of the mountains ahead of us. The Colorado river is on the left side of the highway in this picture.

I thought we would be driving back this highway again tomorrow and I would be able to take a picture of the beautiful scenery and the activities on the river. But the GPS had a shorter route for us from Needles to Yuma.

Today we were stopping overnight at Lake Lavasu City.

What amazed me is the difference between the barren mountain and the green green field.