Atelier1612 was a company I set up back in the 2008. I have held on to this name for various of reasons; mainly I guess because it has been an entity I have had to fight for and work hard to succeed.

Joining Shane for his indoor track and field meet at University of Idaho was a great experience. It was also one of his former alma maters so I got a little tour there. Bonus was when he gave me a surprise!

Our plan to make my grandparents’ vacant house into our second home in Malaysia was abandoned. I didn’t have a backup plan for lodging so here are all the short term rental woes we experienced.

This post is about Mamadeenee, a Muslim Thai woman we met in Krabi. She cooks delicious and affordable Thai dishes at her small stall in the RCA Entertainment lane. Check her out if you are in the area and help support her.

Shane and I are fortunate to celebrate many festivals in Malaysia as a part of a multicultural families. We celebrated my sister Helen family’s Diwali, an important Indian holiday for the Hindus with scrumptious Indian food cooked by Pati. She is an amazing cook and every dish was made more flavorful and authentic when served on banana leaves.

It has been a year since I was first diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy. Living with Bell’s Palsy has been a challenge emotionally and physically. It has made me questioned what is important for my life and not to take health for granted. This has been a roller coaster journey and I am thankful for moral supports from family and friends.

We build up the excitement of a treasure hunt by sending an invite letter. On the Treasure Hunt Day, Kiel listens to grandpa’s instructions via my phone and with map in hand, he has to bring his 2 year old brother along. They spend about an hour hunting for treasures and more hours playing with new toys. Game teaches listening skill and patience in a fun way.

I have shared this story to just a few customers why I paint rocks. This question and the aspiration to reach out to more people and inspire them has been in my mind since then. Today, I am ready to bring to light my vulnerability and hopefully I could motivate…

Celebrating Aaron’s turning two birthday at Jurassic Quest. Aaron is tentative with the life sized dinosaurs while Kiel knows what he wants and runs straight for the dinosaurs rides and inflatables. Little brother wants to join big brother but he can’t. Grandpa brings him to the toddlers’ corner and he is finally all smile! Happy Birthday, Aaron.

Stayover at grandparents’ house for Kiel means he gets exclusive attention from us. The weather has been good so we have many fun outdoor activities for a 5 year old boy to do. This time the main highlight is riding the big bicycle up and down the street. Then it’s more games with grandpa and gramma to his heart’s content.