Awesome #1
Making every TTC Connection without waiting!
In today's era, everyone, I mean, pretty much 98.25% of the population is on some sort of fanatical time schedule. We eat, sleep, and play on some sort of cruel time slots that causes us to stress, panic and even sometimes go hysterical! Having said that, now that I am a "seasoned" TTC patron, I must confess that the one time or very few times that you hit every connection (in my case today, 3 connections), you can't help but bust a serious smile on your face and feel like hey, in this big metropolis of ours, the TTC might just be the better way! Awesome!
Awesome #2
A shimmering moonlight
amidst the black sky, you have illuminated in its beauty a shimmering amazing moon! Into the wee morning hours, in the backdrop of a cool summer's breeze, I'm reminded of how richly we are blessed with God's many gifts of beauty to us. Awesome!
Italia 2012
Roman Colosseum & Ruins. Rome, Italy
Cycling on Hvar Island, Croatia
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Awesome à la Camping Style
Destination: Killarney Provincial Park
Cast of Characters: SYH, jdV, KW, LW & Sophia!
The many moments of awesome were seen, heard and felt in our adventures of hiking, canoeing, portaging and roughing it out in the backcountry of Killarney.
Fellow Companion trekkers
The five of us adventurers have never taken a trip into the wilderness together! After 4 days of roughing it in the elements, I feel SO proud of our accomplishments! I mean, how can you complain when you have people you can trust, paddle, hike, get bitten all over by mosquitoes, snap (a lot) of photos for one another & hike all the way to the top of a 543m peak...and get this, go with you in the dark to the thunder box???
Smells of nature
Sights of nature
Sounds of nature
How can you go wrong when the group of individuals you trek with are ones you can count on, laugh with, freak out with, & genuinely enjoy the outdoors with? Simply, AWESOME
Cast of Characters: SYH, jdV, KW, LW & Sophia!
The many moments of awesome were seen, heard and felt in our adventures of hiking, canoeing, portaging and roughing it out in the backcountry of Killarney.
Fellow Companion trekkers
The five of us adventurers have never taken a trip into the wilderness together! After 4 days of roughing it in the elements, I feel SO proud of our accomplishments! I mean, how can you complain when you have people you can trust, paddle, hike, get bitten all over by mosquitoes, snap (a lot) of photos for one another & hike all the way to the top of a 543m peak...and get this, go with you in the dark to the thunder box???
Smells of nature
Sights of nature
Sounds of nature
How can you go wrong when the group of individuals you trek with are ones you can count on, laugh with, freak out with, & genuinely enjoy the outdoors with? Simply, AWESOME
Friday, July 9, 2010
The Lil' Things...
Recently, my friend, KW, got me a book entitled, The Book of Awesome" by Neil Pasricha and I was so delighted to discover how much I really, really liked the book! Too much of life is depressing, rushed and stressful. I think that when we make deliberate attempts to find the smaller things in life, moments that we can treasure, smile and enjoy, life would be so much more positive, with rays of sunshine streaming in to counter the sometimes, thunderstorms in our lives. In my sometimes worry-wort and flustered kind of state, I also want to remember to practise the presence of God because I know that He walks with me through every moment of my life.
So to that effect, I want to try to practice seeking and finding moments to give thanks for and to just soak and be grateful for those moments:
An Unexpected Gift
Today, a good friend of mine dropped by to pick-up something and to my surprise and delight brought me a bottle of wine as a housewarming type gift. That was completely unexpected, uncalled for, and definitely much appreciated! Now, I can add joyfully to theYee Wine Cellar! Haha!
This thing of unexpected gifts is uniquely special because of the thought that's involved. I appreciate the thought more than the actual gift because the thought and that mere moment of thinking of me is precious in of itself!
There's a SALE on something you want to buy!
I'm not much of a shopper unless it's for groceries! However, there are the odd times where I'll be eyeballing something and choose not to buy it and wait. Then, when you least expect it, you return to the store only to find out that there's a sale on the product! It's such a wicked steal especially when you're on a budget and tight on spending!
To be contd...
So to that effect, I want to try to practice seeking and finding moments to give thanks for and to just soak and be grateful for those moments:
An Unexpected Gift
Today, a good friend of mine dropped by to pick-up something and to my surprise and delight brought me a bottle of wine as a housewarming type gift. That was completely unexpected, uncalled for, and definitely much appreciated! Now, I can add joyfully to the
This thing of unexpected gifts is uniquely special because of the thought that's involved. I appreciate the thought more than the actual gift because the thought and that mere moment of thinking of me is precious in of itself!
There's a SALE on something you want to buy!
I'm not much of a shopper unless it's for groceries! However, there are the odd times where I'll be eyeballing something and choose not to buy it and wait. Then, when you least expect it, you return to the store only to find out that there's a sale on the product! It's such a wicked steal especially when you're on a budget and tight on spending!
To be contd...
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Worth the Wait
Dear: Brother,
On your graduation day, being me, I didn't let a tear release from its duct although I knew that they were lining up trying to get out! I can't say enough to adequately express how extremely proud I am of your accomplishments on becoming a firefighter! I'm so proud to say that my brother is a firefighter!
During the course of your life, there were many highs as there were lows, with its many triumphs and defeats. Like many of us, we often head down a myriad of different paths and sometimes take longer to get to where we want and need to be. Sometimes, it even takes us one more extra mile to achieve our dreams. Regardless of the journey, we never quit and we always fight for what we want and for our dreams. Brother, you never quit...congrats!
It's humbling to serve others but I can only imagine in your profession, the safety of the public & of property are in your hands. Your job will be arduous, challenging, fulfilling and I'm sure, at times, heartbreaking. But, as you begin a prosperous career, know that an entourage of family and friends are here to support, pray and encourage you. And, among the pack, will be #3 cheering you on!
Be safe, be smart & be well!
Your day to shine...
"The LORD bless you and keep you;
the LORD make his face shine upon you
and be gracious to you;
the LORD turn his face toward youand give you peace."
Numbers 6:24-26
On your graduation day, being me, I didn't let a tear release from its duct although I knew that they were lining up trying to get out! I can't say enough to adequately express how extremely proud I am of your accomplishments on becoming a firefighter! I'm so proud to say that my brother is a firefighter!
During the course of your life, there were many highs as there were lows, with its many triumphs and defeats. Like many of us, we often head down a myriad of different paths and sometimes take longer to get to where we want and need to be. Sometimes, it even takes us one more extra mile to achieve our dreams. Regardless of the journey, we never quit and we always fight for what we want and for our dreams. Brother, you never quit...congrats!
It's humbling to serve others but I can only imagine in your profession, the safety of the public & of property are in your hands. Your job will be arduous, challenging, fulfilling and I'm sure, at times, heartbreaking. But, as you begin a prosperous career, know that an entourage of family and friends are here to support, pray and encourage you. And, among the pack, will be #3 cheering you on!
Be safe, be smart & be well!
Your day to shine...
"The LORD bless you and keep you;
the LORD make his face shine upon you
and be gracious to you;
the LORD turn his face toward youand give you peace."
Numbers 6:24-26
Monday, May 3, 2010
CN Tower Climb - April 17, 2010
A few weeks ago, I did my first CN Tower climb in support of the WWF! Like many things in my life, if I've never done it, I can develop a frantic uneasiness about it. Although I can say that I also genuinely look forward to journeying onto new frontiers and exploring new waters, I think that in the back of my head, I'm always wondering, what if I can't???
I think that despite practically playing sports my whole life and trying to be fit by pursuing athletic endeavors, I still feel that nervous panic that seems to grip my psychological sense and confidence of attempting to achieve a new physical feat!
The day of the CN Tower was Saturday, April 17. I had risen out of bed that day at 4:30 am! Growing anticipation was burning in my bones as NK & I registered, checked in our bags, jackets, & went through security. I must say that I was also a bit anxious because this marked the very first time I was going to attempt this challenge. Before the climb, I had set a very humble goal of achieving a time under 1/2 hr. up the 1,778 steps. Then, my competitive side kicked in and I said to myself, I'll aim for under 20 mins.! When Nisha and I began the climb, she said, "feel free to pass me." That was the last thing we said to each other until we reached the top in exhaustion!
The first 10 flights or so were probably the most psychologically challenging! I was trying to stay right behind Nisha but since she just zipped right on ahead, I soon realized that I was losing control of my breathing and there was no consistent rhythm. This out of control breathing alarmed me. I quickly decided to take a little off my strut and began to settle into a more comfortable pace. As a result, my breathing became more stable and controlled which brought me great relief. I maintained this consistent pace. Going around and around with people passing me and me passing others was a tad dizzy! With the sweat dripping off my brow and me checking my watch I knew that I needed to push onwards. With every other level having a paramedic smiling at me, playing his video games, reading his book or newspaper, I said to myself, "I sure could use that oxygen!" that was at the ready should anyone require it's revitalizing powers. HA!. After I passed the 100th level, I knew that I was coming to the home stretch. People had stopped ahead of me to catch their breath, stretch out or just take a break. I was going solo trying to maintain that same rhythm although at that particular point, my lungs were crying out in pain and I was seriously feeling it! Despite the physical rigor, I knew that I couldn't and wouldn't stop and that I could not give up! I was also very encouraged by the children's drawings that were posted on the wall as I made a final push up those last final flights of stairs. They somehow seemed to encourage me along as I kept climbing with heavy legs and burning lungs. As I approached the 140+ level, I could hear voices above me along with people cheering on the finishers. My steps were much more laboured and each step took great conscious effort. I knew that the end was near and that I was almost there. FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT..when I was at level 143, I could hear someone saying, "one more", "one more"...I mustered all the juice I had left and made a final sprint like finish up those final steps! I didn't have the strength to go around people that were in my way or I would have probably shaved a few seconds off my time. FINISH TIME: 18 mins.05 secs.
The CN Tower Climb was a memorable and challenging experience. Another test of a physical feat that can be accomplished when we push our bodies to the max. I exceeded my goal of under 20 and I was so ecstatic in accomplishing that! WooHOO!
I think that despite practically playing sports my whole life and trying to be fit by pursuing athletic endeavors, I still feel that nervous panic that seems to grip my psychological sense and confidence of attempting to achieve a new physical feat!
The day of the CN Tower was Saturday, April 17. I had risen out of bed that day at 4:30 am! Growing anticipation was burning in my bones as NK & I registered, checked in our bags, jackets, & went through security. I must say that I was also a bit anxious because this marked the very first time I was going to attempt this challenge. Before the climb, I had set a very humble goal of achieving a time under 1/2 hr. up the 1,778 steps. Then, my competitive side kicked in and I said to myself, I'll aim for under 20 mins.! When Nisha and I began the climb, she said, "feel free to pass me." That was the last thing we said to each other until we reached the top in exhaustion!
The first 10 flights or so were probably the most psychologically challenging! I was trying to stay right behind Nisha but since she just zipped right on ahead, I soon realized that I was losing control of my breathing and there was no consistent rhythm. This out of control breathing alarmed me. I quickly decided to take a little off my strut and began to settle into a more comfortable pace. As a result, my breathing became more stable and controlled which brought me great relief. I maintained this consistent pace. Going around and around with people passing me and me passing others was a tad dizzy! With the sweat dripping off my brow and me checking my watch I knew that I needed to push onwards. With every other level having a paramedic smiling at me, playing his video games, reading his book or newspaper, I said to myself, "I sure could use that oxygen!" that was at the ready should anyone require it's revitalizing powers. HA!. After I passed the 100th level, I knew that I was coming to the home stretch. People had stopped ahead of me to catch their breath, stretch out or just take a break. I was going solo trying to maintain that same rhythm although at that particular point, my lungs were crying out in pain and I was seriously feeling it! Despite the physical rigor, I knew that I couldn't and wouldn't stop and that I could not give up! I was also very encouraged by the children's drawings that were posted on the wall as I made a final push up those last final flights of stairs. They somehow seemed to encourage me along as I kept climbing with heavy legs and burning lungs. As I approached the 140+ level, I could hear voices above me along with people cheering on the finishers. My steps were much more laboured and each step took great conscious effort. I knew that the end was near and that I was almost there. FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT..when I was at level 143, I could hear someone saying, "one more", "one more"...I mustered all the juice I had left and made a final sprint like finish up those final steps! I didn't have the strength to go around people that were in my way or I would have probably shaved a few seconds off my time. FINISH TIME: 18 mins.05 secs.
The CN Tower Climb was a memorable and challenging experience. Another test of a physical feat that can be accomplished when we push our bodies to the max. I exceeded my goal of under 20 and I was so ecstatic in accomplishing that! WooHOO!
Sunday, April 4, 2010
When a Mom ♥ Her Daughter...
Everyone says that their mom is the BEST mom on the planet. I'll go further than that & venture to say with certainty, that my mom is the best mom in the whole entire universe!
In my family, there are 4 Yee kids...Sue, Jeff, and Yvo. When we were young and growing up, there must have been some Book of Yee Lore (oh yeah, Sue's memory!) that was created to chronicle those especially crucial '80s that saw us learn, grow and play! Things such as "hand-me downs" & sermons preached repeatedly about, "when I was young, I used to walk for miles with my own two feet before I got to school and you want a bike???", being annoyed about who would be in the bathroom at the exact moment that another needed it, the girls of the house complaining about the only boy who "thought" he was king!, being assigned chores, weekly Mandarin classes and delivering the FAT Saturday Star newspaper at a neighbouring seniors home!
Yes, I went through all these emotions and even often felt absolute injustice at how the way my parents dealt with us girls compared to our brother. However, one thing that I'm reminded about regularly is despite my perceptions and thoughts, my mom loved each of her children tremendously. I can't begin to explain just how much because it cannot be measured and I'm learning to be more & more thankful for the blessing of her. She is such an incredible gift...one that I much too often take for granted.
It was tough for my mom to raise 3 of us at first and then came Lil' Yvo...we were quite the handful...Some pranks, funny things, including my brother and I pulling the building alarm - [funny, how he's a firefighter now!], a lot of bickering n' arguing, some TKOing & WWF DDTs [thanks Jeff!], we all turned out okay!
As I was growing up and even now, I sometimes question many of the things that my mom says or does just as she questions her # 3 (Haha). However, there's one thing that I know with truth and without a shadow of a doubt is that I'm certain of my mom's love for me and for my sisters and brother.
Things that I remember very, very fondly...
• When my mom used to work the 3-12 shift @ the cookie factory, she used to make dinner before she left and set aside a plate of food for my dad and each of my siblings!
• She would sometimes pack me a lunch that she prepared just before she left for work and sometimes, I would get a lovely little note on it that said, Sophia, your lunch
• Beef such as steaks would often be in the house because my mom thought about us and not about herself because she doesn't eat beef
• She would lug and carry heavy groceries - food that was for us and not necessarily her and I would be a little upset or feel a bit inconvenienced to have to go down to the car to get it (I'm ashamed!)
• When I was away in Taiwan in 2005-2006, she sent me clothes etc. half way around the world because I was her girl and she always thought about my needs
Growing up, I was always called the "Little Mom" because I loved to take care of everyone, organize and clean things up, as well as cook food when my parents were out. I owe my love for food to my mom as she always, always modeled delectable delights in our household while we were growing up - the colours/presentation, taste, texture, etc.... I appreciated her example because I've grown up to not only love food but to also to enjoy cooking. I would also always be my mom's sidekick , grocery shopping with her and helping to hold the bags [*NB. I also asked for some treats knowing that as her helper, she would get me something from the store! Smart girl, Sophia!]
Because they're 4 of us kids, I've always desired for my parents not to have to worry about me and give them the comfort of knowing that I could take care of myself and that I'd be okay. However, when I was in Taiwan, I asked my mom if she still worried about me and her response was, "of course I do, how could I not?". That's a typical loving response from my dear mom!
For these great memories and for the many small and not-so small ways in which my mom loves me, I love her! . I'm often overwhelmed by her goodness towards me because her actions are always grounded in her loving thoughts and kindness for her kids.
When I think of my mom, I think of how good God has blessed me in life to have her. I'm touched and reminded of God's love that he gave me the gift of her.
My mom is the best cook in the world (just look at me!) and even though I'm out of the family nest, I still have little treats, told about weekly grocery sales about eggs (haha!), or nagged to come home to take the rest of my stuff!
My mom is the best because she always thinks of others beyond herself and she loves her family unconditionally! I see how she cares for each of my siblings and I'm touched each time I witness her love in action or in thought!
My mom has taught me so much - to care and love others, to be generous and considerate, to respect and value others...I love her because although I don't deserve her amazing love, she loves me still because I'm her #3!
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! I LOVE YOU MAMADUKES!
♥ Your Sooya 8)
In my family, there are 4 Yee kids...Sue, Jeff, and Yvo. When we were young and growing up, there must have been some Book of Yee Lore (oh yeah, Sue's memory!) that was created to chronicle those especially crucial '80s that saw us learn, grow and play! Things such as "hand-me downs" & sermons preached repeatedly about, "when I was young, I used to walk for miles with my own two feet before I got to school and you want a bike???", being annoyed about who would be in the bathroom at the exact moment that another needed it, the girls of the house complaining about the only boy who "thought" he was king!, being assigned chores, weekly Mandarin classes and delivering the FAT Saturday Star newspaper at a neighbouring seniors home!
Yes, I went through all these emotions and even often felt absolute injustice at how the way my parents dealt with us girls compared to our brother. However, one thing that I'm reminded about regularly is despite my perceptions and thoughts, my mom loved each of her children tremendously. I can't begin to explain just how much because it cannot be measured and I'm learning to be more & more thankful for the blessing of her. She is such an incredible gift...one that I much too often take for granted.
It was tough for my mom to raise 3 of us at first and then came Lil' Yvo...we were quite the handful...Some pranks, funny things, including my brother and I pulling the building alarm - [funny, how he's a firefighter now!], a lot of bickering n' arguing, some TKOing & WWF DDTs [thanks Jeff!], we all turned out okay!
As I was growing up and even now, I sometimes question many of the things that my mom says or does just as she questions her # 3 (Haha). However, there's one thing that I know with truth and without a shadow of a doubt is that I'm certain of my mom's love for me and for my sisters and brother.
Things that I remember very, very fondly...
• When my mom used to work the 3-12 shift @ the cookie factory, she used to make dinner before she left and set aside a plate of food for my dad and each of my siblings!
• She would sometimes pack me a lunch that she prepared just before she left for work and sometimes, I would get a lovely little note on it that said, Sophia, your lunch
• Beef such as steaks would often be in the house because my mom thought about us and not about herself because she doesn't eat beef
• She would lug and carry heavy groceries - food that was for us and not necessarily her and I would be a little upset or feel a bit inconvenienced to have to go down to the car to get it (I'm ashamed!)
• When I was away in Taiwan in 2005-2006, she sent me clothes etc. half way around the world because I was her girl and she always thought about my needs
Growing up, I was always called the "Little Mom" because I loved to take care of everyone, organize and clean things up, as well as cook food when my parents were out. I owe my love for food to my mom as she always, always modeled delectable delights in our household while we were growing up - the colours/presentation, taste, texture, etc.... I appreciated her example because I've grown up to not only love food but to also to enjoy cooking. I would also always be my mom's sidekick , grocery shopping with her and helping to hold the bags [*NB. I also asked for some treats knowing that as her helper, she would get me something from the store! Smart girl, Sophia!]
Because they're 4 of us kids, I've always desired for my parents not to have to worry about me and give them the comfort of knowing that I could take care of myself and that I'd be okay. However, when I was in Taiwan, I asked my mom if she still worried about me and her response was, "of course I do, how could I not?". That's a typical loving response from my dear mom!
For these great memories and for the many small and not-so small ways in which my mom loves me, I love her! . I'm often overwhelmed by her goodness towards me because her actions are always grounded in her loving thoughts and kindness for her kids.
When I think of my mom, I think of how good God has blessed me in life to have her. I'm touched and reminded of God's love that he gave me the gift of her.
My mom is the best cook in the world (just look at me!) and even though I'm out of the family nest, I still have little treats, told about weekly grocery sales about eggs (haha!), or nagged to come home to take the rest of my stuff!
My mom is the best because she always thinks of others beyond herself and she loves her family unconditionally! I see how she cares for each of my siblings and I'm touched each time I witness her love in action or in thought!
My mom has taught me so much - to care and love others, to be generous and considerate, to respect and value others...I love her because although I don't deserve her amazing love, she loves me still because I'm her #3!
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! I LOVE YOU MAMADUKES!
♥ Your Sooya 8)
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Rays of Sunshine & Drizzles of Delight
The past little while has been immensely joyful. In fact, I've been overjoyed primarily in witnessing some powerful movements that my students have made in their overall performance at school, be it academics or behaviour. To any teacher, I think it's safe to say that when you see children begin to transform, heading down the right path, making those steps towards improvement and reaching higher planes towards discovering their potential, one cannot help but to be overwhelmed with indescribable JOY. Of late, my heart has been overwhelmed with this gleeful feeling and I'm thankful for the encouragement because it motivates me to push and encourage my students even more. Actually, the best word would be I hope to instill inspiration, motivation and aspiration in the lives of these young people. I have passion for teaching and I was affirmed of that greatly today as I shared my feelings with my grade 5 students. I told them how proud I was of each of them, to see them be able to make a purposeful decision to give of their best in all that they do. If there was an inkling of inspiration or even a fragment of motivation in my speech, I would have done my job. Sometimes, I feel that these children need to have a fire lit from underneath them before they get rolling...sometimes it takes awhile and at other times, it takes a shorter period of time. Some children work faster and progress and develop faster than others. With so many variables to consider, I still firmly believe that hope needs to be extended to children and certainly opportunities for them to find success need to be provided. As I was sharing with them this afternoon and affirming there good work and encouraging them to push even more, I got the sense that some were emotionally moved and maybe a few were getting teary-eyed! One thing that they know about their Ms. Yee is that I'll never mix mash my words with my students and the truth will always reign supreme.
Another reason for my giddy joy is in recognizing the many simple gifts in life: family, friendship,the joy of food and cooking, smiles and laughter. I give thanks because each is like a breath of fresh air that pulsates the daily rhythm of my life. I'm learning to count my blessings & to acknowledge every good gift that comes from the Father. If I don't practise this habit routinely, I can get lost in an environment of negativity & hopelessness can often suck me right in where I can become a part of grimness and darkness and not of the light.
I believe firmly that teaching is my passionate calling in life. And, this past week, I was affirmed with great JOY, an overwhelming satisfaction & the gratifying feeling a teacher can have when there's change, no matter how big or small. The smiles on my boys and girls, their jokes and innocence (okay, okay, maybe even sometimes their not-so-innocent selves), as well as their laughter, can completely drive me nuts but make me realize how thankful I am to be so privileged to be a part of their education and lives.
Until next time I'm gripped to write the next episode of my journey in teaching...Thanks for reading!
~S.
Another reason for my giddy joy is in recognizing the many simple gifts in life: family, friendship,the joy of food and cooking, smiles and laughter. I give thanks because each is like a breath of fresh air that pulsates the daily rhythm of my life. I'm learning to count my blessings & to acknowledge every good gift that comes from the Father. If I don't practise this habit routinely, I can get lost in an environment of negativity & hopelessness can often suck me right in where I can become a part of grimness and darkness and not of the light.
I believe firmly that teaching is my passionate calling in life. And, this past week, I was affirmed with great JOY, an overwhelming satisfaction & the gratifying feeling a teacher can have when there's change, no matter how big or small. The smiles on my boys and girls, their jokes and innocence (okay, okay, maybe even sometimes their not-so-innocent selves), as well as their laughter, can completely drive me nuts but make me realize how thankful I am to be so privileged to be a part of their education and lives.
Until next time I'm gripped to write the next episode of my journey in teaching...Thanks for reading!
~S.
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- Jack-of-all-Trades ~ Clients: Children