To Sharath

I just want to let you know that I'm so proud of you!

I've been there with you to witness the last 3 1/2 years. . .from the change in your career to life's daily struggles. . .you and I have been on this journey together. I couldn't be more happier to know that this day has come.

Congratulations on all of your accomplishments! I'm so excited to see where the next step in your career is going to take you!

St. Paul Travelers is very lucky to have you as an addition to their team! I can feel the excitement in your voice as you talk about starting your new adventure.



As you were there for me on my Graduation Day. . .I wish I can physically be there to share in your special moment along with our friends and family.

I know that your pearly whites will be shining among the thousands wearing the same cap and gown. =) Oh how I wish to see your smiling face as you walk across the stage. Make sure Mom & Dad take tons of pictures.

I Love You, Sharath!

Let's celebrate in Bali when you get here!

I'm Not Malay

Everywhere I go in KL, the locals always speak to me in Malay (the national language and race of Malaysia). It's clear to see that I don't resemble Malaysia's next most common races: Indian and Chinese.

I think that I often get mistaken as a liberal Malay woman. Liberal in the sense that I don't cover my hair, I wear fashionable clothes, and I often walk around with my Laptop bag. Oh yeah an I do drink occasionally.

A typical Malay. . .I'm generalizing here by what I see on a daily basis. . .wears a head cover, also known as a tudong, traditional clothing, and is typically not a business woman. . .and for the ones who aren't in traditional clothing, they're wearing long sleeved shirts and pants. Drinking is illegal and against their religion as well.

Let's go down the check list to see how close I am to passing as a Malay...=)

hmmm. . .Hair uncovered, arms showing, attire - nope.

The picture above was taken in front of the entrance to the mosque in Bangsar.

When I'm spoken to in Malay, I kindly say that "I don't speak Malay" or "I'm not Malay". Sometimes it shocks people and they ask where I'm from and I say "the US". It crazy how many think US is full of blond-haired blue eyed people, and the other race would be black.

Most Malaysians haven't traveled to the US. Mainly because it's very expensive to travel there and most prefer or choose to travel to Europe, or nearer countries like Australia and New Zealand.

You typically don't see many Americans here either. Although I'm not really sure what the reason is, it may be the perception that it's a completely Islamic country.

Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's Day to all the Special Moms in my life...



Mom






Cecile




Inay




Lola




Mom




Tita Bel





Tita Leta, Tita Bel, Mom, Tita Merly, & Inay

Also to Auntie Toy, Tita Ida, Tita Stella, Tita Olive, Tita Rosie, Auntie Ami, Ate Liza, Cherry, Margie, Len-Len, Iza, Trina, Jody & Natalie...oh I hope I'm not missing anyone....(I don't have digi pics of everyone)

Happy Mother's Day to all! I Love You! *Muah, Muah, Muah!*