HappiLEE: sharon & david

Haiti

2010-09-10T23:22:00.000-07:00

The news about this trip first came to me when my mother told me she was going to Haiti with a missionary group, Back to Eden. The idea of my mother going on her first mission trip in one of the poorest and least developed countries in the world was not comforting to say the least, so I decided to join her on our first mother-daughter mission trip experience together.

Words alone cannot describe the overwhelming hardship the country's people face day to day ever since the devastating earthquake. Even though several months have passed, the harsh reality that has left thousands homeless and barely hanging on is unimaginable. Our thirty minute ride from the Port-Au-Prince airport to the house where we were staying at in Diquini was merely a glimpse of the destruction that was caused by this horrific earthquake. Along the roads, there was concrete rubble everywhere and piles of trash 4 to 5 feet high. I was in shock at the sight of hundreds of tents pitched along a narrow median strip of a busy highway. Often, the highways are so congested with traffic that the vehicles will crash into the tents along the median causing injuries and fatalities. It's extremely sad to think that these people live amongst the most dangerous places just to find shelter, a place to call home.

Although our time was limited to just one week, we managed to set-up a clinic at a local SDA church to provide medical and optical services. Every morning, we arrived at clinic around 9am to be welcomed by hundreds of people patiently waiting to be treated. As part of the medical team, I helped triage patients taking vitals and history with the assistance of our translators. With only one physician (Dr. Lee) on board, patients waited long hours before being seen. Even with the most challenging task at hand to see every patient without a break in between, Dr. Lee showed nothing but kindness and compassion as he thanked every person for waiting so patiently and prayed with them. Majority of the patients we treated suffered from pain (head, stomach, back) and infection (most commonly UTI's) attributed to the earthquake in January. Most of the children were severely malnourished and anemic because they simply didn't have food to eat. In Leogane (the epicenter of the earthquake), we treated a two-year old boy with a parasitic infection. It was so heartbreaking to see him in tears and pain caused by the parasite that was literally living under the skin of his left foot. After treating as many patients as we could in clinic, around fifty to sixty children showed up every afternoon for Vacation Bible School. By the end of the week, they had mastered all the songs and hand motions we taught them. Singing at the tops of their lungs, they would uplift their voices filling the entire church with their favorite song "Hallelujah, praise ye the Lord." Seeing the children so happy with their faces lit up with smiles ear to ear was priceless.

Looking back, I am so pleased with my decision to go to Haiti. Even if it was just for one week, just to be able to make a small contribution and reach out to these people was worth the experience. You can't help but come back with a greater appreciation for everything after witnessing the hardships people face there everyday. Although it will definitely be a long road to recovery, we can only hope for a new Haiti and continue to keep them in our prayers.

I DIE.

2010-07-21T22:38:00.000-07:00

My favorite, the Rachel Zoe Project returns August 3rd!!! I can't wait!!!

The artist in me.

2010-07-16T17:36:00.001-07:00

Stick figure animation is my specialty.

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DANGER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-07-16T07:58:00.000-07:00

NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE STARTS TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Nordy's always knows how to entice their customers to spend their dollars! I got away without doing too much damage (actually, I think David shopped more than me.)

My new Ted Baker wallet.

Come to Mama!

2010-07-12T11:17:00.000-07:00

My new toy!!! Can't wait to play with her!

Perfect for the weather!

2010-07-03T19:23:00.001-07:00

Call me a halmuni if you want but I
love kong gooksoo (cold noodles in soy bean broth.) It is the perfect solution to this intolerable heat!

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2010-07-01T23:58:00.001-07:00

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Bon Anniversaire

2010-06-25T20:29:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe it's been 2 years (June 22, 2010.) Altogether, we've been together for eight years...jeejush. So what's new in the LEE-LEE household? Last September, David was hired full-time at a PDS office in Hemet. Since then, it seems like we've had very little time for traveling (like we used to.) Fortunately for us, we are going to Cabo San Lucas (returning to the RIU Resort) with our good friends in August. If you didn't know by now, we like to travel with company. It just makes trips that much more exciting!

Looking back on the past two years of our marriage, I am so grateful for a wonderful and loving husband, most of all best friend who embraces me for who I am. So happy anniversary to my one and only David!!! I LOVE YOU!!! (*Elena, this is the part where you gag...is this too much PDA for you???haha*)

Married on June 22, 2008.

Two years later...happy wife, happy life!

Reunited!!!

2010-06-24T21:16:00.000-07:00

After what seemed to be eternity (3 months), we were finally reunited! Yahoooooo!!!! We welcomed our dear FOB friend Hyunah back from the motherland while Margie came back for her monthly visit from NorCal.

Some things never change.

To top it off, we celebrated Margie's 27th birthday (our makneh of the group). This would be the marvelous cake that Sarah drove all the way to West LA for!!! It was oh~so~delicious!!!!

Are you READY?!?!

2010-05-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

It's finally here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

New York in less than 48 hours!!!

2010-02-11T16:56:00.000-08:00

After a month or two of strategic planning with Danny, David and I managed to surprise Elena in NYC! What she thought was a weekend anniversary trip to the East Coast turned out to be just that...with an added bonus, of course...the company of friends to celebrate with them!

I could barely contain my excitement knowing that they were going to walk through the hotel doors any minute! In this photo, David and I were sitting on a bench in the middle of the hotel lobby. Elena had to do a double take and squint her eyes to realize that it was really us! We looked like crazies running towards each other across the hotel lobby as if we had been separated for ages. And of course, Danny got the jaw-dropping surprise on camera. High five Danny!

I'd say 95% of the trip was dedicated to our love for food. As most of you may already know, I live to EAT. Here are some of my faves.

Luckily, Elena and I kept track of our exciting adventure in the big city. I'm pretty sure we left nothing out.

Here it goes:

1. Katz Deli (Lower East Side)
2. Rockefeller Center
3. Dean & Deluca's
4. Empire State Building
5. Wolfgang's Steakhouse
6. Mad for Chicken (Murray Hill)
7. Time Squre!!! (Nuts, Toys R Us, falafel sandwich, and we saw David Blaine!!!)
8. Magnolia Bakery
9. Sarabeth's
10. Central Park
11. Bergdorf Goodman on 5th Ave.
12. Trump Tower (Mozzarella Bar)
13. Dylan's candy bar
14. Serendipity (Upper East Side)
15. Subway to Soho ---> Lombardi's
16. Shopping in Soho (Uniqlo & Topshop!)
17. Dean & Deluca in Soho
18. New Wonton Garden in Chinatown
19. Massage in Chinatown!
20. Greenwich Village
21. NYU & local pub to watch Charger's game!
22. Balthazar (Soho)
23. Another massage!!!
23. Boka (East Village)

Wow. Let me remind you this was all done on Saturday & Sunday!!!

Happy 7-year anniversary Danny & Elena! We love you guys!

Where I'd rather be....

2010-02-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'll admit it. I'm a wimpy SoCal girl who doesn't tolerate cold weather. So what?!? With all the rain lately, all I can think of is....

...a much needed vacation!!!

Right NOW, I'd rather be swimming at the beach, laying out and getting may damn tan on! I'm so pale!

One day, we'll revisit this tropical paradise. Bora Bora.

Holiday baking!!!!

2010-01-06T19:52:00.000-08:00

The holidays always inspire me to get into the seldom used kitchen and BAKE like no other.

11 cookie tins, 6 dozen oatmeal toffee cookies, 6 dozen mocha crinkles, and 4 loaves of banana bread.....no joke! The lucky recipients = our families. One tin per family (7 on my side, 4 on David's.)

Here are the mocha crinkles! A delicious combination of coffee & cocoa!

The oatmeal toffee cookies.

http://www.hersheys.com/recipes/recipes/detail.asp?id=6141

(subsitute with brown sugar & whole wheat flour)

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Banana-Banana-Bread/Detail.aspx

(Subsitute with wheat flour & brown sugar)

Thanks to Sarah for all the yummy recipes! The mocha crinkles came from this book....along with tons of other great cookie recipes!

HAPPY 2010!

2010-01-05T20:41:00.000-08:00

Somewhere on my long list of resolutions, one of them is to spend LESS time on Facebook and MORE time blogging.

HAPPY SEPTEMBER!!!!

2009-09-01T18:14:00.000-07:00

2009-08-26T13:38:00.000-07:00

This morning, I made sure to stop by Starbucks for my caffeine fix to get me through the day. It's definitely challenging getting your butt back into work mode when you've been vacationing for a week. Yes, I went on vacation again. David and I joined the rest of our party (17 relatives on my side of the family) for a 7-day cruise to Alaska. I really didn't know what to expect to do on a ship for an entire week, but to my surprise, the trip was so much fun! To sum up the trip, it consisted of EATING (more like binge-eating), sleeping, gambling, sight-seeing, family-bonding, and more eating...haha. Thanks to my mom and her skillful vacation planning, we were able to have an awesome experience in Alaska...pictures will be posted soon. Other than that, I'm looking at my calender trying to figure out how the year went by so darn fast. I can't believe it's almost September. Seriously. 2010 is just around the corner. But for the moment, no plans for vacation any time soon. Bummer.

My new favorite show.

2009-08-26T09:59:00.001-07:00

Weekend in TAHOE...

2009-08-05T21:59:00.000-07:00

...in continuation of JUNE festivities...

One lucky weekend in June, some of us were able to escape the heat from the Inland Empire and experience true, beautiful NATURE far away in LAKE TAHOE!

After our 6-7 hour road trip in my dad's Tahoe, we finally arrived in our cozy 3 bedroom, 2 story condo.

Breakfast at Ernie's (the next morning).

David, Hank, Hyunah, & Jaelim.

One of my favorite parts about the trip: BIKING! We rented the bikes for 3-4 hours making stops here and there all throughout Lake Tahoe. Despite our sore bums, calves, and thighs the next day, it was so much fun!

Something you don't see everyday....a combination of tall forest trees, mountains, and a sandy beach?

Looking at this makes me hungry all over again.

There's nothing like a scoop of strawberry cheesecake ice cream to make your day better!

It takes major skills to eat ice cream and maneuver your bicycle all at the same time.

Our backyard.

Boating on Lake Tahoe! Can you tell just how excited Hyunah was???

So neat! A ring around the sun!

Margie, on the other hand, was scared for her life!

Margie, Hyunah, & I woke up early that morning to make kimbab for lunch!

The boys.

The girls.

While the boys gambled at the casinos, we treated ourselves to hot chocolate, cookies, & brownies at the Nestle Tollhouse Cafe.

The boys getting dinner ready...

We brought CHAM-SOT-GOL to Lake Tahoe with us....hehe.

Time to grub!

Celebrating Margie's birthday later that evening!

What a way to end the trip!

1st Year Anniversary

2009-07-30T22:04:00.000-07:00

I still can't get over the fact that it's been over a year since we got hitched. Where did all the time go? For our 1 year anniversary, David planned a little getaway to one of my favorite places...LAGUNA BEACH. It's always nice to go to a place 10-15 degrees cooler than the I.E.! As our "paper" gift to each other, I got him tickets to see one of his favorite musicals, WICKED in San Diego on opening night and he got me a gift certificate to do what I love best (besides eating) - getting pampered at the spa!

Here are some pictures!

Time to wind down & relax...

The patio...

Enjoying some wine & cheese...

Dinner at Sapphire.

My braised prime short ribs....

Trio of creme brulee (white expresso, chai latte, & orange chocolate)...yum!

It would be OUR DREAM to live here someday...

Mimosas for brunch!

Unfortunately, I didn't get a picture of David's "best omelette ever," but here are my yummy waffles!

Thanks husband for planning a wonderful & romantic anniversary!

Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

2009-07-30T17:24:00.000-07:00

After a season of watching THE BACHELORETTE religiously every Monday night (TWO HOURS at a time!), I was soooooooooooooo disappointed when JILLIAN chose ED. REID, my favorite, even came back to confess that he loved her....but I guess it wasn't enough to sweep her off her feet!

....poor REID....

Although she claims to be MADLY IN LOVE with Ed, I'm still a fan of REID. TEAM REID! I hope he becomes the next BACHELOR!

'til next season!

Who will she choose???

2009-07-24T07:42:00.000-07:00

All of you know by now that I am reality TV queen. Yes, I'm addicted. Luckily, I have had one consistent partner (Angie) throughout this season's "The Bachelorette."

The Bachelors in the Finale....

Ed: The guy who left the show for his demanding career...then returned sacrificing it all and professing his love for Jillian. I don't buy it.

Kiptyn: Buff bodied surfer/businessman from San Diego...great qualities but has always been the "heartbreaker." Uh oh.

Then Reid...my favorite all season: Funny, smart, handsome, all the qualities Jillian was looking for in a guy. When they're together, they look like a match made in heaven. But what does the stupid girl do? She sent him home last week! But there's hope! In a preview for next week's season finale, Reid comes back with a RING! Oh please oh please.....

So who will she choose?

To be continued....

The Motherland

2009-07-23T10:16:00.001-07:00

Things I learned about Korea on my last visit:

1. I could NEVER live there. Maybe a month MAX.

2. 80% of the population (or so it seems) has had cosmetic surgery.

3. I ran into a couple men wearing capris and heels.

4. Almost everyone on the subway is listening to music or either dozing.

5. Korean people are rude. There's no such thing as personal space.

6. Food is relatively cheap. I love it.

7. Girls are so vain. They constantly take pictures of themselves.

8. There is a Dunkin Donuts on every other block in Seoul.

9. A big mac meal is less than $3 between 11am-2pm.

10. I hate mosquitos. One night, my left arm was uncovered and was bitten in six different places.

11. I love shopping in Korea. Bargaining is always fun.

12. It's convenient to have subways, although I did miss driving my car.

13. People drink anytime of the day. One day, I was passing a restaurant and a couple was drinking soju at 2pm in the afternoon.

14. The girls wear short shorts!

15. Why can't they get toilet seatcovers???

June!!!

2009-07-22T12:40:00.000-07:00

All the fun things in June...

Hadn't been to Market Night in a long time!

Spoiled the boys with sweet treats! Sorry Elena!

Elena's birthday junk food fiesta!

Then, we had a SPA day with just the ladies to celebrate her birthday!

All refreshed after KELLY'S SPA.

Lunch at the Mission Inn Restaurant.

COSTCO bought chocolate cake that I decorated with fresh berries!

Celebrating Lakers' victory!

We are the champions!

Twins...

Lina's Baby Shower!

Lina & her firstborn, Aaron...soon, he'll be a big brother!

Congratulations Lina!

Redondo Beach with friends....

I always love CRAB NIGHT!

Celebrating Diane's birthday at Macaroni Grill...

Happy birthday Diane!

The Month of MAY....

2009-07-21T16:51:00.000-07:00

Okay...so I know it's been a while. I wanted to rewind a little and share what's been going on these last couple of months, so here is the month of MAY!

~David's LLUSD Senior Banquet Dinner at the Mission Inn. This is also the same day I chopped my hair off!

His dental clinic group.

Graduation Day!

All our wonderful friends showing their love & support!

Grad Afterparty...wine & cheese!

It was my first time making SANGRIA!

Jacob's 3rd birthday party @ Old Spaghetti Factory!

Happy birthday Jacob!

Jonathan & Julie's wedding!!!

~by Sweet Tooth Cupcakes.

The beautiful bride, Julie!

Moments before walking down the aisle...

It was a perfect day!

Game 4. Victory.

2009-06-12T00:10:00.000-07:00

Hero....

3-1. We got this.

My latest craving....

2009-06-09T23:02:00.000-07:00

Today, Elena and I had dinner together at Red Robin's after a long day at work. As if fries and yummy food at Red Robin's wasn't enough, we found ourselves in the McDonald's drive-thru a couple blocks away. Hee hee. I don't know what it is about those damn McFlurry's but it's like a taste of HEAVEN! Funny thing is, the last time Elena and I had one, we complained about how small the McFlurry's were getting in their portion size (sad, huh?). This time, the first thing I said was "WOW! IT'S SO BIG!" I felt like a little kid as my eyes lit up! Then, the drive-thru lady offered us 2 extra soft serves. She was going to toss them but I think as soon as she saw the excitment on my face, she probably thought to herself "Here are a couple girls that would appreciate a free ice cream!" hahahahaha.

Yum....

Who wants to cook?

2009-06-08T23:03:00.000-07:00

So I've realized that I've been neglecting my husband of home-cooked meals recently. I just lost all motivation for cooking when it came to recent events that took over, (i.e. birthdays, weddings, showers, etc). I really thought I would be better at this. If there was someone to prepare the ingredients and clean up after me, I would cook everyday! Luckily, David's been self sufficient in the kitchen and has managed to get through his meals (usually chicken adobo, kimchi chigae, or kimchi bokkumbab). Maybe what I need is a really good cookbook to get me motivated!

My brown rice fusilli pasta w/ sun dried tomato pesto & baby broccoli.

Happy Belated Mothers' Day!

2009-06-04T23:57:00.000-07:00

This Mother's Day, I spent part of the weekend in Orange County with my parents and the other part in San Diego with David's parents. It was fun hanging out with my family Saturday afternoon. My mom who only accepts gift cards on birthdays, holidays, etc. accepted my invitation to the mall to pick out a handbag. She picked out a cute yellow one, something she wouldn't typically carry, but something that was fresh and different from her collection of handbags. For dinner, we went to a Japanese buffet in Long Beach and stuffed our faces! Then on Sunday (after I got off work), we drove down to SD to visit David's family. I made cupcakes (below) for David's mom, aunt, & Chihye. They were lemon cupcakes w/ fruit buttercream. The next day, we went shopping with the family and had a nice home-cooked galbi dinner. Although the trip was shortlived, I could tell David's mom was so happy to have all her children under one roof. To all the moms out there, HAPPY BELATED MOTHERS' DAY. I truly have the utmost respect for mothers! Especially to all my close mommy friends....you all rock! I hope I can learn from all of you and be a wonderful mother one day! Just like you!

I chopped it off!

2009-06-04T01:27:00.000-07:00

So....after much time & thought, I finally decided to chop it off! After the wedding last year, I thought I was ready to let go of the hair I had grown out for YEARS, but I just couldn't do it. Now that it was May and the hot weather was kicking in, I knew it was time for a change! Even my hairstylist Saejin wasn't convinced that I would follow through. People ask "Did you donate your hair?" I said "Hell no! It was so nappy!" I think the last time I had my hair this short was when I graduated from nursing school in 2003. But even then, it wasn't this short. So I'm glad I finally grew some balls to pull through with it! I like the change although it does require some more maintenance (blow drying, flat ironing, & styling). Everyone except my mom is a fan so far! She was pretty shocked the first time she saw it. I knew she wouldn't approve because she loved my long hair (especially when I curled it). Oh well! Hair grows back! Thanks Saej! I love it!

Before

After

I W-A-N-T her body!

2009-05-19T22:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, I need to seriously post her picture on my bathroom mirror to give me motivation! Melissa Rycroft (bachelorette who got rejected on live televsion!) was on DWTS this season and I couldn't help but check her body out week to week! It's amazing how much her body has become ripped and toned over the season! No joke! When I saw her in this number, all I could think was "Damn, I want her body!"

Too bad she didn't win it. Shawn Johnson did! =)

Check out our cupcakes!

2009-05-12T20:22:00.000-07:00

http://sweettoothcupcake.blogspot.com

Cabo!!!!

2009-05-12T14:04:00.000-07:00

Now that I'm playing catch up, here are some pictures from our trip to CABO in March! There's nothing better than a mini-vacay on the beach with your dearest friends!

Our view from the hotel room.

Our first night in CABO.

Fun in the sun!

Get some sun son!

Getting our TAN on!

J & J.

S & S.

We stayed at the Royal Solaris. Never again.

Damn, she's got some HOPS!

My girls!

Group photo!

Aw...........

with M & M.

We look so short next to the guys!

Sporting the sombreros!

Ayayayayaayayay!!!!~~~

Group photo before leaving the resort....

After days of greasy, deep-fried Mexican food....

....Korean food back at home-sweet-home!!!

What a trip! Twas fun!

.28.

2009-04-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

I apologize for my disappearance these past few months. Like always, there have been so many birthdays, baby showers, and celebrations to keep me busy. Plus, there's always FACEBOOK of course. Anyways, I'm back again and I will keep up with everything this time around! In the meanwhile, here are some pictures from my 28th birthday (in March!)...hahah. 28. sheesh.

~Fleming's~

Don't underestimate me.

My FOB birthday with the girls @ Cham-sot-gol! Thank you ladies! I had so much fun!

No, we didn't plan this.

Now that we had yummy in our tummy, moving on to ROUND TWO of FOB NIGHT! Ding Dong Dang Karaoke!

The delicious cake before destruction.

Need I say more?

Winner.

Vegas, again!

2009-03-11T12:17:00.000-07:00

Another birthday->another great reason to celebrate in VEGAS! A couple weeks ago, we celebrated Hyunah's 26th birthday in addition to Jinju's first official visit to Sin City.

Margaret, Jinju, Hyunah, & me.

Vegas Vets.

Our trip: Checked into Caesar's Palace -> grubbed @ the Bellagio Buffet -> pre-partied in room -> TAO -> late night food @ cafe -> very little ZZzzzzz -> bye bye Vegas!

4 hours is NOT enough sleep. That's fo sho. I don't know if I can hang anymore.

V-Day

2009-03-11T12:09:00.000-07:00

The best part of Valentine's Day is probably the goodies and treats that come along with it...chocolate covered strawberries, candy, cookies, chocolate, and anything else that will most likely rot your teeth! But in the end, it's all about the LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!

Sarah showed me LOTS of love with her delicious baked goods...sugar cookies & chocolates.

A little craft of my own: heart-shaped rice krispy treats coated with white chocolate and sprinkles.

I love V-Day pink M&M's.

My cupcakes - everything is cuter in pink!

Thanks to the dollar spot at Target, I had so many sprinkles to choose from.

We spent the entire day with our close friends Hyunah & Dan. First, shopping at Fashion Island in Newport, then yummy thirst quenchers at Javier's at the Crystal Cove...

Pomegranate Margarita. Yum.

Good times!

I love Javier's! http://www.javiers-cantina.com/

Then...a hearty brazilian meal at Agora Churrascaria in Irvine. I tried chicken hearts for the first time! Ew! http://www.agorachurrascaria.com/

*Below - something funny I found from this website:

http://www.recess.ufl.edu/transcripts/2004/0414.shtml

Two months ago on February 14, Americans celebrated Valentine's Day. Some people feel that this is a ridiculous holiday promoted largely by the greeting card, flower, and candy industries, while others cherish it as a day of love and caring. But both opinions are forgotten by the end of February when the hearts and candy disappear. However in Korea, the tradition of a day of love happens not once a year, but every month on the 14th.

The Korean Valentine's Day is similar to ours in theme, but limited in scope - only Korean girls give chocolates to Korean boys. Girls are returning the favor in memory of a traditional folk character - a poor girl who was in love with a wealthy boy. The boy loved the poor girl, but was forced to part with her because of a parental mandate. Before he left, though, he gave her chocolates, her favorite treat. Today, girls in Korea return the kind gesture of love by giving chocolates to the boys they like. However, while boys don't have to do anything in February, their turn comes in March.

March 14th in Korea is White Day. On White Day, Korean guys give candy or chocolates to Korean girls. Waiting one month to reciprocate a gift takes the pressure off the boys because they have usually figured out exactly who likes them and gave them a gift in February. While it is not required that you give a return gift, that is usually the accepted thing to do. However, guys are not limited only to the people who gave them chocolate. They may give sweets to any girl they fancy. If you received chocolate or candy in either February or March, you take the following month off to plan gifts for the rest of the year. But if you weren't a recipient in February or March, then April becomes a month of singles celebration.

April 14th in Korea is called Black Day. The girls and boys who did not receive chocolate or candy in February and March all come together for a meal of black noodles, noodles with black bean sauce, usually served in Chinese restaurants. This may sound depressing and heart wrenching to Americans, but a Korean middle-school student of mine says that the group usually has a great time together at dinner. It is not a pity party, but a time to come together with other singles.
These series of holidays don't end on the 14th of April. Each month after April resorts back to gifts for lovers and friends on the 14th and are labeled according to the appropriate gift: Ring, Flower, Sock, Money, Music, Kiss, Rose, Yellow, and Silver Day. Exact gifts and holiday names may vary depending on where you are in Korean. So, if you were feeling down about Valentine's Day, you just might find good company tonite with the other singles at the nearest Chinese restaurant serving black noodles.

Pretty interesting, no?

Sarah's Dedication Service

2009-03-11T01:29:00.000-07:00

Wow, how time flies. I remember being a student and inpatiently waiting to start working and make $$$!~ Now, sometimes, I kind of miss being a student....studying in the library or at Starbucks, late night study sessions at Denny's, taking colorful notes in class, etc. But then when I hear Sarah complaining and stressing out about exams, all those thoughts immediately go out the door! Haha. I'm so proud of Sarah though. Who knew we would all end up in Loma Linda, this wee little town? Last month, I attended her nursing school dedication service and it definitely brought back some memories!

February 7, 2009.

The big white nursing cap. Wow. I can't laugh because I wore the exact same thing.

Congratulations Sarah!

Like I said...Wow. Big White nursing cap.

Hopefully, we'll recruit her over to NICU!

Girls' Night Out!

2009-03-11T01:24:00.000-07:00

As you can see, I have a lot of catching up to do. Back in January, six of us (Angie, Tayler, Sarah, Elena, Helen, and I) celebrated Helen's birthday VEGAS-style!

Wining and dining @ Emeril Lagasse's Delmonico Steakhouse. Look at these gorgeous mamas!

Happy birthday Helen!

Emeril's Banana Cream Pie....OMG.

Getting ready for our GNO!

TAO.

Even though the trip was short-lived, we had a blast! Happy Birthday Helen!

13.1

2009-03-11T01:21:00.000-07:00

There is no better time to set goals for yourself then in the beginning of the year, right? That's what resolutions are for, no?

Well, the whole purpose of running the Carlsbad 1/2 in January was so that I could get myself somewhat back into shape with intense training prior to the run. So did I take full advantage of this opportunity to shed some pounds? Nope. With very little training, Christine and I somehow managed to finish without any injuries. Phew.

Do you see me in the front? Haha. Yeah right. We were in WAVE 5...way behind.

Out of all the runs I've done in the past, Carlsbad was by far the best because of the weather! Who wouldn't want to run along the beach?

Finished at 2:33:50.

2nd time running her 1/2 and looking good! Great job Christine!

Yay! We did it!

What do you do after you've finished a 13 mile run?! You GRUB! It was my first time at the Beach Grass Cafe in Solana Beach and I absolutely LOVED it, despite the hour long wait. I enjoyed the best in town's UPSIDE-DOWN PINEAPPLE PANCAKES!

Turkey chorizo, avocado, tomato, spinach, cheddar cheese scramble. Yum.

And to reward ourselves, we spent the afternoon relaxing at the Burke Williams Spa in Orange County. It was the perfect way to end the day!

~Music of the Night~

2009-03-11T01:15:00.000-07:00

Back in January, Hyunah, Dan, David, & I booked last minute tickets to see PHANTOM. It had been so long since I'd last seen the musical as a little child. The performers were awesome and some of their performances definitely gave me the goosebumps! I'm hoping to see the Vegas production sometime in the near future.

Before the show, we went shopping @ the Beverly Center.

@ the Pantages Theater in Hollywood.

Check out those binoculars!

We loved it!

Anyone interested in Vegas? http://www.phantomlasvegas.com/

Limited Edition!

2009-03-10T23:37:00.000-07:00

I love spring makeup! Isn't it purty???

* Laura Mercier 'Gilded Garden' Shimmer Bloc *

Yummy in my Tummy....

2009-03-10T23:04:00.000-07:00

In continuation of my efforts to make myself useful in the kitchen, I decided to make something appropriate for the recent cold weather...쇠고기 무우국 ("soegogimoowooguk") = white radish soup with beef. The funny thing is that David (who has been noticing my nice gestures lately) even asked "Why are you being so nice to me?" PUAHAHAHAH!

Here's the recipe: http://www.maangchi.com/recipes/oisobagi-kimchi

~my new favorite place to shop~

2009-02-17T11:20:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, we went Korean-grocery shopping at H MART in Irvine @ the Diamond Jamboree Shopping Plaza. I've heard great things about this place, but I had to see for myself. Turns out it's HUGE, CLEAN, & they've got a great selection of everything you could ask for...not to mention the food court! This place is THE BOMB! In addition to H MART, there are TONS of other stores to shop and eat at! I think I could spend an entire day alone in this shopping center!

85 C Bakery Cafe
Ajisen Ramen
Ayumi's Japanese Grill
Balcony California Grill & Bar
BCD Tofu House
Beard Papa's with Haagen-Daz Ice Cream
Bibimar BBQ Chicken
Capital Seafood
CeFiore Frozen Yogurt
Crepes De Paris
Greek Islands Mediterranean Cuisine
Guppy Tea House Café
The Boiler
Tokyo Table

It's the perfect ASIAN shopping center!

Welcome to my kitchen.

2009-02-10T23:17:00.000-08:00

Okay, so you all may be surpised to find out that I actually spent some hours in my kitchen cooking traditional Korean food. I was at work the other day when I decided to look up Korean recipes and was inspired to try some of my favorite dishes out. Of course, David was excited more than ever. I told him "You have to tell your mom and my mom I cooked for you so they don't think I starve you!" I've never really been a big fan for cooking from scratch but I realized that it's the only way to learn. I could've easily gotten recipes from my mom or David's mom, but they cook by experience and taste. I don't have that. So that's why I found my recipes on http://www.maanchi.com.

#1 Oisobagi (Spicy stuffed cucumber) - side dish

So I failed miserably on one of the steps where it said "add 1 tbs of sugar." I wasn't thinking and added 1 tbs of SALT! So you can only imagine the panic I went through to try to make it right. I still don't know....haven't tasted it yet. It may look tasty but looks are deceiving, you know? We'll see. http://www.maangchi.com/recipes/oisobagi-kimchi

#2 Mae woon gyeran jjim (spicy steamed egg) - side dish

First of all, there were way too many green onions.

It was okay. Probably could've used some salt (used soy sauce instead). http://www.maangchi.com/recipes/egg-side-dishes

#3 Galbijjim (Beef short ribs) - main dish!

For this recipe, I followed everything to the tee, but had to add some more ingredients (more soy sauce, sugar, & corn syrup) at the end because it was bland. At serving time, it was PERFECT!

Leftovers anyone? http://www.maangchi.com/recipes/galbijjim

#4 Vegetable Kimbap (sushi rolls)

Another one of my projects this week was making kimbap for the first time. I can't believe it took me this long to try to make one of the easiest Korean dishes ever.

I was craving this so badly the night before. It was quite tasty!

David's eyes lit up when he walked through the door and saw this on the table.

And for me, brown rice rolls. =) It's just as good! http://mykoreankitchen.com/2006/10/13/vegetable-kimbab/

Well, stay tuned until next time!

Satisfaction Guaranteed

2009-02-06T10:55:00.000-08:00

OMG. I'm sitting at work and I've managed to somehow get access to http://mysoju.com. I'm currently watching ONE FINE DAY featuring one of my fav's GONG YOO! Anyhow, I just can't get over the idea of eating HOT, SPICY ramen right now! They eat it ALL the time on the drama and I can't stop licking my lips! Plus, it's the perfect weather for ramen because it's raining outside! OMG. What would I do for a hot bowl of ramen right now?!?!?!

Gotta have spicy kimchi to go along with it, of course.

A Night on the Town

2009-01-21T19:53:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, we went to Geisha House in Hollywood to celebrate Danny & Elena's 6th wedding anniversary. The couple took advantage of their opportunity to get out of the house while N&J were with the in-laws. You would think they would want to spend it alone over a romantic, candlelit dinner, but knowing how people-friendly they are, they invited us all to celebrate their special occasion. Of course, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to party amongst our closest friends in Hollywood!

The Lobby.

Me & Hyunah.

Jaelim & Hyunah. I love this picture of them. It's NORMAL!

Us & the boys....David not paying attention as usual.

***Aw. Don't they look so lovey-dovey?

6 years!!!! Wow! How Time flies!

Congratulations! I love you guys!

Walking down Hollywood Blvd.

~Elena & Elvis...where's Danny?

Later that night....

Elena & Danny - Congratulations to your 6 years of marital bliss and MANY more to come!

Photo Log

2009-01-13T16:04:00.000-08:00

Because I've been a slacker, I finally posted some pictures from the various activities that went on in the last month 'til now. It's been a whirlwind but FUN FUN FUN!

Heidi walking down the aisle...

Christine's 28th Birthday Dinner @ JAVIER's in Newport Beach

The centerpieces I created for our 5th annual CKSDA Christmas Party ("Black & White Ball").

He's so not into smiling in pictures because of his braces. Argh.

~w/ Sarah @ our NICU Christmas Party

Weekend getaway @ the RIU Resort in Los Cabos, Mexico

Fun in the Sun!

Perfect weather. 75-80's.

Looking forward to the next trip in March...this time with our friends! Yay!

And yes, I did some baking over the holidays. My peppermint chocolate cookies (recipe by Giada).

I wish I could claim this, but no, it wasn't me. For Christmas, my aunt made a delicious pound cake covered with fresh kiwi, berries, & puree (by raspberry or strawberries?). Doesn't it look beautiful?

~1/2 of the cousins in addition to Isaac & his little baby girl.

And my first time baking from scratch! I made banana bread for New Year's Day for my family including the in-laws.

Also, pumpkin w/cream-cheese filling muffins!

New Year's Eve Bash @ my brother's house.

Celebrating 2009 with all our friends!

~Sarah, Marg, & me~

HAPPY 2009!

~Celebrating William's 26th birthday @ Elephant Bar.

I don't have a picture of the cake but Brit brought PORTOS!

Hope you enjoyed the pictures!

A Must Have

2009-01-11T09:59:00.000-08:00

I love it.

http://www.fresh.com/index.jp?edge=content.category&catCode=hesperides&catalog=534

New Year, New Me.

2009-01-08T18:57:00.001-08:00

2009 Resolutions:

1. Shop LESS & SAVE $$$!

2. Drink LESS Starbucks.

3. Exercise more & LOSE 10 pounds!

4. Eat out less and cook more at home for the hubby.

5. Eat more fruits & vegetables.

6. Work more. Make extra $$$.

7. Watch less reality television.

8. Pray more.

9. Read more.

10. Travel more.

11. Go on more date nights with David.

12. Eat less chocolate and candy.

13. Be a better wife, friend, sister, & daughter.

14. Eventually...start thinking about...

(but most likely a resolution for 2010! Let's not get carried away!)

15. And last...

Oh, and I found this for you, Elena (lover of N.R.)...haha.

HAPPY 2009 & BEST WISHES TO ALL!

2008-12-28T11:59:00.000-08:00

Holiday Candy~

2008-12-28T11:20:00.000-08:00

Did you know that candy canes fight germs and settle stomachs? It's the peppermint! =) Happy holidays!

2008 Biography

2008-12-27T15:10:00.000-08:00

I still can't believe this year's almost over. Is it just that the older you get, the quicker time flies? Without a doubt, I have so many things to be thankful for this past year. On January 1, 2008, David and I celebrated our SIX year anniversary together. Crazy!The next few months kept me super busy with all the wedding planning, the overtime shifts at work to pay for the wedding, sessions at the gym with my personal trainer, baby showers, birthdays, and so much more. On March 2nd, I completed my first-ever marathon. I thought it would be cool to run 26 miles at 26 years old. Yep, this was a ONE-TIME deal, that's for sure. It took me a grueling 5 hours & 11 minutes to complete the run through LA, but I was damn proud of myself. I spent a few days in mid-April in Palm Springs for a mother-daughter retreat. We soaked ourselves in 100 degree+ hot springs water at the spa and of course, my mother shared her words of wisdom and bits of pre-marital couseling with me. Overall, we really enjoyed each other's company and it was nice to be able to have that bonding time after so many years. On May 4th, even after I had tortured myself with the LA Marathon, I convinced myself to finish the "Run through Redlands" 1/2 marathon and accomplished my best running time yet! With one month left 'til the wedding, there was a lot going on in the month of May. My bridesmaids threw me an exciting and adventurous (or should I say "dangerous?" keke...) LUAU bridal shower. On Memorial weekend, my dear friend & sister-in-law Chihye ended one chapter of her life as she graduated from Loma Linda University Medical School and I was so happy to be there for her! She is now working as an Internal Medicine resident at Huntington Memorial in Pasadena. Last but not least, how could I ever forget the bachelorette party in Vegas?!?! With my closest girlfriends around, I couldn't have asked for a better way to celebrate the last bit of my freedom as a single lady! As June finally hit, every day, every hour, every minute of my time was consumed by the oh-so-fun wedding planning and I couldn't have done it without my biggest support group, my girlfriends. I love you all! On June 22, everything that led up to this day finally paid off. I went from Ms. Lee to Mrs. Lee. And no, we're not related. Although our wedding day was probably the hottest day of June, we made it and amazingly, so did the makeup!!! (*witnessed by our cakey, pale faces of course). The next week was spent relaxing on our honeymoon in paradise, first Moorea, then Bora Bora. EXPENSIVE!....but AMAZING! Even though we were miles away from home, we got word via email that our close friend, Jonathan was ENGAGED and is soon to be wed in May 2009. Once we returned from our honeymoon, we vacationed some more with the Saesims, Changs, & Liaos in Palm Springs. Just when I thought things were slowing down, July was just as busy with two weddings back to back (Ben & Jullie 7/20, June & Hyung 7/27). Now that I was a newlywed, I ditched my night shift buddies to become a normal day shifter 7am-7pm so that I could spend more time with David. Although I missed the shift differential ($4 more on nights) and mostly the company of my partner-in-crime, Jessica, I have to admit that the switch was definitely a good choice! I no longer sleep 12 hours on my days off now and I'm a much happier person! =) Ask David! In August, a fairly big group of our friends took a weekend trip to SF & NAPA for wine-tasting and fine dining! A few days later, I invited everyone over and grilled Korean BBQ for David's birthday/housewarming party. Luckily, we somehow managed to accomodate 25+ people in our little dinky apartment. Then, on August 31st, Gina and James finally tied the knot! 2008 was definitely a busy year for weddings! Late September, our CKSDA family visited an orphange in Mexico and made the most out of our one day mission trip (providing medical, dental, and even hair care by BAUHAUS's senior hairstylist Saejin Oh, spending time with the children through arts and crafts, and preparing a nice meal). It was truly a blessing for all of us. By now, in October, I had definitely put on more than needed pounds after the wedding. In an attempt to get back into shape, I completed the Long Beach 1/2 Marathon with Christine (first time 1/2 marathoner). On October 18th, CKSDA threw a benefit concert to raise money for RIO HONDO, a temporary housing facility in Norwalk. With the help of our featured perfomers (FUTURE OF FORESTRY, Lost Ocean, & Colma Clarity), we raised over $5000 donated to RIO HONDO. Sarah and I went kind of crazy this year with our multiple costume outfits for Halloween, but it was so festive and fun! This year, I dressed up a little inappropriately as a devil and tamed it down later as a greek goddess. Who knew Halloween outfits could be so expensive!?!? In November, we visited Phillip (David's younger brother) in Vegas for his birthday. Sarah won BIG in Vegas on a slot machine with $1800!!! And for her birthday, I convinced her to purchase her first LV bag with her winnings. Yay! This year, I had the chance to eat TWO thanksgiving dinners! First, we had a massive CKSDA Pre-Thanksgiving potluck at the Saesims where Danny made his first turkey ever. It was delicious! Then, David & I spent Thanksgiving in San Diego with his side of the family. We had Korean BBQ & turkey! Yeah, I think I'm still trying to put off the extra pounds from those feasts. Finally, in December, I attended the last wedding of the year (phew) for Heidi & James. Congratulations guys! Elena & I worked our party planning skills for the CKSDA 5th annual Christmas banquet, "The Black & White Ball." The weather made a big jump from the first of December, 90 degrees and sunny to mid December, 40 degrees and pouring rain! Just in time, David and I escaped from the dreary weather to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico where it was 80 degrees...perfect weather! We stayed at an all-inclusive resort (RIU) with absolutely no worries and interruptions...just pure relaxation...with the help of many mojitos of course. We returned just in time for Christmas with my side of the family. With 2009 coming around the corner, I'm doing some last-minute planning for New Year's Eve at my brother's house. We've invited all the LL posse and it's definitely going to be a blast as we ring in another year! As I look back on 2008, I am so grateful for all the fond memories, good health, new and old friendships, and most of all, the love and support from all of you! HAPPY 2009!

He's finished!

2008-12-19T18:42:00.000-08:00

Yay! Today was DAY TWO of David's STEP 2's. I am praying that all the long hours of studying PAID OFF! Everyone's been asking me "Where is David?" And over and over and over again, I say "He's studying." It's only a matter of months before he's done with dental school. I still can't believe it. For me, it's gone by quickly. For him, not so much.

In the meanwhile, we'll be gone this weekend to recover from all the madness this past month. You won't find us anywhere, not in the OC, not in SD....

Instead, we'll be here....

An all-inclusive resort (RIU SANTA FE) in Cabo San Lucas. *sigh* The Saesims are also vacationing in Mexico, but in Puerto Vallarta. We'll be together in the same country at least, in spirit. For the rest of you, I'll be thinking of you and enjoy a juicy margarita for you!

ADIOS AMIGOS!

Three Yummy Recipes

2008-12-01T23:42:00.000-08:00

This year, our church had a pre-Thanksgiving potluck at the Saesim's. I was inspired from the Food Network to make 2 out of these 3 dishes. It's really not much, but I take pride in it because bottom line, I don't cook that much. Here's what I prepared:

Paula Dean's Banana Split Brownie Pizza

I don't know why this picture keeps coming up sideways, but pretty much I baked brownie pizza in a 13 inch round pizza pan. (bake brownie according to box instructions - I used Duncan Hines Chewy Mix). Then, the spread (in white) is actually cream cheese mixed with a little bit of sugar and crushed pineapples (drained). You don't want to know just how much cream cheese I used. =/ Anyways, you can pretty much add whatever fruit you'd like. I added sliced strawberries, blueberries, & bananas (w/ a little lemon juice to prevent browning).

Wala~~~~~....I love this dessert because it's quick and easy.

And very fun to decorate! =) After putting on the spread & fruit, I added peanuts and chocolate syrup! =)

It was very fun! I have to admit, I was a bit scared of how it would taste (...never tried it before...) Thank goodness it was a hit! =) I mean...how can you go wrong with brownies, cream cheese, and fruit, right???

Here's the link to this wonderful recipe:

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/banana-split-brownie-pizza-recipe/index.html

Next: Robin Miller's Herbed cheese stuffed bread twists!

1. Buy refrigerated bread sticks. Or if you're gung ho, make your own dough.

2. Dip your finger in water and make a canal.

3. Spread herb cheese through the canal. I used Alouette Garlic & Herb Spreadable Cheese.

4. Then you fold over both sides to cover the spread.

5. Twist the bread sticks and lay it on a pan (spray with PAM oil) or a cooking sheet. Brush bread sticks with egg white and sprinkle with salt & pepper. Bake for 12 minutes or until golden brown.

There you have your herbed cheese stuffed bread twists!

Link to the recipe:

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/robin-miller/chicken-with-orange-sage-sauce-with-herbed-cheese-stuffed-bread-twists-recipe/index.html

And last but not least, my Spring Mix Berry Salad!

Ingredients:

Spring Mix greens
White Balsamic Vinagrette (or any other vinagrettes)
chopped avocado
chopped green apple
dried cranberries
sliced strawberries
blueberries
blackberries
honey glazed sliced almonds
feta cheese cubes

You can pretty much add as much as you want to this salad. It's definitely one of my favorites!

Well, there you go! Three delicious recipes and more to come! =)

this weather calls for....

2008-11-26T00:49:00.000-08:00

i'm laying in bed now and it's about 12:52am. david's sleeping like a baby. it's raining outside. all i can think of right now is an extra hot cup of pumpkin spice latte from starbucks.

i love this time of the year.

damn her.

2008-11-25T23:58:00.000-08:00

Don't get me wrong, I'm happy she won DWTS, but damn....

She has an A-M-A-Z-I-N-G body.
She gave birth to F-O-U-R children.
I haven't even had kids but why can't I have her body?
On top of that, she has a beautiful face and personality!
Damn her.

So please don't mind me as I vent all these bitter thoughts on how F-A-T I am and how H-O-T she is. After the wedding, I've been slacking BIG TIME on my diet & exercise. I try my best, but the motivation's just not there anymore....at least like before. But still....ideally, I would like to lose a couple more pounds and in my dream world, I would like to lose more like 10~! Today, I signed up for the Carlsbad 1/2 marathon in January to get me back in shape! I need to start training so I can get out there and shed those pounds! Thanks to my team, Elena-my diet partner, Hyunah-my workout buddy, and Shonna-my personal trainer, otherwise....it would be OVER!

Typically, I try not to have junk food around the house, but when David goes grocery shopping, it's another story. He comes home with this.

It's so bad, yet so good! Once you start, you can't stop! All throughout the day, I'll be so good, eating relatively healthy all day, until I get home and struggle with myself, "Should I eat it? No!?! But it's so good! Don't do it Sharon! A little won't hurt, just run tomorrow!" Do you feel my pain???

In the meanwhile, I have this to keep me motivated....

True Religion Joey Jeans (dark drifter gold disco)....the damage? $297!

i heart cupcakes.

2008-11-25T22:56:00.000-08:00

Last week, my kitchen was abused like no other. I don't typically cook much, but given all the special occasions lately, I was on a mission to utilize the kitchen. The occasion? Sarah's birthday. We typically bake together (hence ~S & S~ cupcakes) but this time, sans the birthday girl to spare the surprise.

Just getting started...

Unfortunately, I didn't use any of the recipes from these books. It's just for show. =D These were gifts! Next time I will definitely experiment with a cupcake recipe from one of these books. In the meanwhile, Betty Crocker did the job.

My tub full of goodies (frosting tips, sprinkles, etc.)

Before....(bottom left-whipped butter cream, bottom right-whipped cream cheese, & top-creamy cream cheese frosting)

And after food coloring....wa-la~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Having fun with pink fondant.

Put 4 cupcakes together and you get a mini-cake? hee hee. Did I mention? Sarah's an avid HELLO KITTY fan (just like me). We'll never grow out of our Hello Kitty phase. BTW, I got the cute candle from Party America. =) Cute, huh?

I tried so hard to be careful with the frosting. I wanted to impress my teacher (sarah).

You probably can't tell but there's a little bit of *sparkle* that I added onto the cupcakes.

The final product.

Of course, I had to taste test. Yes, they were um...quite DEEEEEEEEELIcious!

Sprinkles! Yum.

More Hello Kitty decorations....

Thank goodness for a cupcake carrier (Martha Stewart!)

So what do you think???

1....2....3....4 babies!

2008-11-23T18:57:00.000-08:00

On July 29, 2008, 4 adorable babies shook the earth with their entrance into the world. Not long after their birth, we experienced a 5.4 magnitude earthquake! During their 2 month stay in the hospital, I had the privilege of taking care of them as one of their 15 primary nurses. We immediately fell in love with the babies (in birth order-Anthony, Michael, Jaileigh, & Jakob) and their awesome parents, Amber & Mike. I've been fortunate enough to keep in touch with the family since they've left the hospital. And here are some pictures from my last two visits to the family that was once 2, now SIX!

This is Jakob. He was the peanut of the bunch when he was first born. Not so much anymore.

Jaileigh got her nails polished by Melissa. Pretty pink. And notice her little bitty bracelet from daddy.

Anthony cuddling w/ Jess.

The family getting interviewed by CBS.

Michael. Mr. Mellow.

Me & Mr. Personality, Jakob.

We tried getting them together for a little photo shoot.....unfortunately, it didn't last long.

Jaileigh was NOT up for it AT ALL. Jakob (top) didn't seem to mind. =)

Jakob's cute little feet.

Bottles, medication syringes, pacifiers, nipples, etc. Can you imagine???

We watched the news clip LIVE on TV! Can you see me???

I think this is Anthony (?)....

The princess finally fell asleep....phew.

New members of the household.

Jess changin' diapers~

How could daddy not spoil her???

Oh boy. Jaileigh goin' a little cross-eyed. She's still so stinkin' cute.

She's thinking...."I know I'm cute. So what?"

Well...Amber & Mike have definitely had their hands full, but they've been blessed with 4 little bundles of joy. I am so happy that all the munchkins are healthy, happy, & strong!

Happy Birthday Sarah!

2008-11-23T00:05:00.000-08:00

On Nov. 22, Sarah turned 21 (again!). We celebrated Friday night @ Elephant Bar with a little bit of help from HELLO KITTY. (More pictures from the party to come!). Most of you may know that we've been friends for a long time now...since we were little teenyboppers that is. Throughout the years, we've had some of the BEST times ever! I am so grateful and lucky for her friendship!

HEPPY BERSDEY MANGO!

My favorite food

2008-11-19T22:36:00.000-08:00

Last week, amongst my friends, I was asked...

"Before you die, what would be your ideal LAST meal?"

My answer:

Mool Naeng Myun.

Don't judge me.

I could seriously eat mool naeng myun everyday for the rest of my life. Even in the cold winter time, for breakfast, lunch and dinner....you name it. If I had to choose, I'd have NOODLES than rice. I'm a sucker for GOOK-SOO! What can I say? So this past weekend, I had....mool naeng myun on Friday (for lunch at home), mool naeng myun on Saturday (for lunch in Vegas), and mool naeng myun on Sunday (for dinner back in LL)....Don't mess with me and my NOODOH!

So yes. I would choose MOOL NAENG MYUN as my last meal on earth. =)

And the best place in town for it? If you're ever in LA, check out Yu Chun. http://www.yelp.com/biz/yu-chun-chic-naeng-myun-los-angeles-2

Shoot! I could eat it NOW!

2008-11-18T22:13:00.000-08:00

So this past weekend, David, Sarah, Tina, James, and I took our uneventful 3 hour road trip to Las Vegas, NV! The occasion? To celebrate my brother-in-law, Phillip's 23rd birthday. Still a baby. =) The last time I had gone to the city was my memorable and best-time-of-my-life bachelorette party with the ladies. Just what is it about this city that makes it that weekend getaway, a place called "Sin City", an excuse to go crazy? Oh yeah....I remember why. =)

Our first night in Vegas, we really weren't prepared to go out-out (due to our late arrival in the city), but that's why Vegas is Vegas....

Please look carefully at Sarah's dress as it makes its transformation. When we were in the bathroom later that night (at Treasure Island), a random stranger (female, of course) went up to Sarah and said "Girl!?!!? Are you going to your grandma's birthday party?!?" At first, we were laughing and enjoying the moment for what it was, until we realized that she wasn't kidding at all. In a matter of seconds, here is this Asian girl we've never met reaching under Sarah's dress, pulling the dress up (from underneath), and knotting the dress at the straps on top. I definitely give her an A+ for pulling a TYRA BANKS like what you see on Top Model, but that was one of the most awkward, yet most hilarious moments of my life!

~James & David~

Pretty.

And not so pretty.

@ Audigier in Treasure Island

I don't know why we do this so much, but it was fun and entertaining at the time.

On our second night out...on our way to PURE @ Caesar's Palace.

The theme was "black & white."

My brother was a good sport and followed through with our dare to go dance with the bachelorette at the table next to our's. I closed by eyes the entire time!

Happy 23rd Phillip!

The beautiful view from the patio upstairs.

What a small world....we actually ran into some grads from LLU Dent school. What are the odds?

Phillip blowing out his birthday candles...

And the next day, just when you thought it was all over.....

Sarah made MEGA bucks!!!! Her $20 turned into $1800! And of course, as big baller of the weekend, she treated us out to dinner! =) Thanks Sarah!

What I realized...

Two nights, three days of Vegas can do the following:

make you gain 5 pounds from all the delicious buffets and late night post-club junk food!
make your legs and feet hurt like no other from walking everywhere.
dry your throat and make you cough all weekend long from the terrible polluted cigarette smoke everywhere!
make you lose $$$ or if you lucky like Sarah, win some!
make you not want to work or do anything for the following week in an attempt to recover from all the late nights.
but ultimately, want to make you go back again because you had SUCH A BLAST! =)

Halloween Part TWO!

2008-11-10T17:02:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's true. The party wasn't over. Another round of parties for the festive holiday.....

Can't wait to see what's in store for next year....

But something I've always wanted to be and will hope to be one Halloween day....

is...

Isn't it genius? I love it!

Halloween NICU Party

2008-11-07T11:02:00.000-08:00

So every year, as you know, I like to be festive and get dressed up for Halloween. Every year (for a few years now), my co-worker Toni & her husband Jeff have thrown the most fun, awesome Halloween parties. Given that we all see each other in scrubs everyday at work, it's always interesting to see what people wear outside of work, esp. on a holiday such as Halloween. So this year, 2 weeks before the official day of Halloween, Sarah and I kind of went crazy with our costumes. Yes, we had to choose the most uncomfortable, constricting outfits ever. Spanx, black tights, strapless bra, black pumps = PLEASE HELP ME! I couldn't breathe in my outfit all night, but for the most part, we had a blast!

My 2 Seconds of Fame!!!

2008-11-04T22:54:00.000-08:00

Check it out!

http://cbs2.com/video/?id=81744@kcbs.dayport.com

Title of video: Quads leave hospital for Rancho Cucamonga

More pics to come!

A Royal Celebration

2008-11-03T13:34:00.001-08:00

A few weekends ago, we were invited to a ROYAL CELEBRATION for Savannah's 1st and Madeline's 4th birthdays. Seriously, all you mommies are my heroes. The effort that goes into all these spectacular birthday parties are inspiring! Who knows how crazy I'll go when I have my own kids....for now, I'll just have my fun as a guest! =)

Noah getting his face painted as "Batman."

I learned a bit watching her paint....it's all about the right paint and brushes!

Ta-Da!!!! Interesting choice, Noah....

And Jacob's choice....

A dolphin! How cute!

Showing off his new TAT....

Even though this picture is blurry, I love it because Noah's actually SMILING and not making funny faces!

A huge production by the Chun family...

Cupcake lollicups! The cutest things ever!

I managed to take a couple home....hee hee.

Time to blow out the cakes.

Look at all the paparazzi!

The Chun Family

This is a cute picture of the family....blowing out the candles together.

Susan looked absolutely beautiful that day! Her dress was so pretty!

Me & Savy~

The boys mesmerized by all the goodies...

Balloons everywhere!

Isn't this the cutest fruit assortment you've ever seen?

Happy 1st Birthday little one!

Showtime!

Love her outfit.

Gotta get a pair of those shoes.

Madeline was her little helper.

"Whatcha lookin' at?!?"

....."gotta get outta here"......

The girls' birthday party was so much fun! Great food, a corner full of candy & treats, cupcake lollipops (my fav!), delicious cake(s), face-painting, balloons, extravagant party favors for the kiddies (which I think even included lunch boxes!), entertainment for the little ones, and it goes on and on and on....it was just FABULOUS! Thanks for having me Susan, Chris, Madeline, & Savannah! Can't wait to see what's in store next year........=)

yum.....spaghetti!

2008-11-02T12:33:00.000-08:00

So about a week ago, I was babysitting the boys and I couldn't help myself but to take these pictures!!! Totally unprepared for their sudden onset of hunger, I scrounged through the refrigerator hoping for something to save me. Alas, a to-go box of untouched ANGELO'S spaghetti! ....sigh of relief....

After a few minutes in the microwave...

"Mo' please?"

Goodbye XANGA, Hello BLOGSPOT!

2008-10-30T21:22:00.000-07:00

Hello friends & family!

I've decided to start all over and create a new blog. It's been a while since the last time I blogged, so I figured, why not just make a new one? This time, I am fully committed to keeping up with my posts and giving you snippets of my life...our lives. As you all may know, David and I got married this June. Although we had been dating for over 6 years before tying the knot, we are both enjoying the beginning of our new lives as husband and wife. Now that the wedding is over, we are back to our usual, busy lives enjoying the company of our wonderful friends and family.

So here's our story....

Before "Sharon & David".....

*David's high school banquet....

*After 5 1/2 years of dating....

*He finally popped the question!

*The Date: June 22, 2008

*At our casual engagement shoot...

*Photos by KAPPA Studios

*My LUAU Bridal Shower thrown by my LOVELY bridesmaids!

*Then, off to VEGAS for my BACHELORETTE PARTY!

*Of course, I had the TIME OF MY LIFE!

*Formal pictures taken before the wedding...

*Gotta love david's MC Hammer pants!

*AT LAST, THE BIG DAY!

It's finally over! Woo Hoo!

And someday.....we plan to build a family....

Let's just pray that this MACHINE was broken, because those kids are FUGLY!

To see a clip from our wedding, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1i3xRxKc-s
and for more pictures visit http://www.xanga.com/sharonsunlee