Journey to Our Wedding Day: A United Nations Affair

P-A-U-S-E

2009-07-23T01:40:00.001-07:00

This blog is temporarily on pause.

Hope everybody has a great summer!

~ A Post Happy 4th of July to all

2009-07-12T02:44:00.001-07:00

Tony holding our baby pal, lil Noah, now 17 days old

2009-07-12T02:26:00.000-07:00

July = Tony's Month

2009-07-12T02:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Reader:

Tony was born in the month of July so this is an UNofficial proclamation by The Future Wife that many of the blog entries for the rest of this month will be about Anthony T. Dondero:

Zodiac sign: Ox
Astrological sign: Cancer
Favorite sport: Soccer
Favorite color: Green
Favorite dessert: Ice Cream
Languages: 1 very well, 2 badly (per Tony)
Biggest pet peeve: "Baby Tu-Ha doing the cosmetology/barbie doll thing to my face."
Favorite book: Too many to list
Favorite recording artist: Miles Davis
Favorite Swim Suit Model: Kathy Ireland
Favorite Snack: Pepper Jack Cheese
Favorite Magazine: Sports Illustrated
Favorite Thai Dish: Chicken Curry ("I used to like the red but now I am more partial to yellow," A.T. Dondero.

~ Some Random, Interesting Pictures

2009-07-05T04:22:00.000-07:00

Why? Well, it's because every blog should have some cool pictures. He, he.

~ Trains: "It's all good -- gotta love them."

2009-07-05T03:43:00.000-07:00

Hi folks - It's late. I am horribly congested and less than thrilled with my allergies due to the pollen in the air, etc. For now, sleeping while sitting upright or standing is not my forte so I am choosing to be a bit more productive.
Loved the trains since I was little. Took a ride from Seattle to Montana and back. Went from Los Angeles to New Mexico and returned. Had a round-trip L.A. to Seattle on the Coast Starlight -- talked to everyone, I mean E-V-E-R-Y-O-N-E on board. Experienced the Seattle to Canada excursion. I can write books about the lives of folks I rode with. Many life lessons shared...
Chose to focus on the engineering prowess of the box cars instead of zoning on their use for negative/destructive reasons in history.
Perhaps, the child-like fascination or love for trains runs in the family?
My niece, Cara, at that time a toddler -- will be 16 this November, once stared at a train set underneath a Christmas Tree in New Jersey. My sister and her husband bought it for her.
My nephew, Andrew once a tiny tyke, now also a teenager loved Thomas the Train Sets.
Oh, you might ask, "What does this have to do with The Wedding?" My answer, "A train ride was involved when he asked and I said said YES. Then he gave me a ring."

Noah's Big Brother, Ben

2009-07-05T03:26:00.000-07:00

This picture may only make sense if you read the blog entry on July 3rd, FIRST...

Welcome to the World, Baby Noah

2009-07-03T23:13:00.000-07:00

Dear Noah:

Your Mommy happily reports that "Noah Louis joined us at 4:56 on June 25th weighing in at 7 lbs, 10 oz and 19.5 inches long. We of course find him to be cute as a bugs ear. I will post pics soon! Thanks for all the love & prayers."

We wish you, your Daddy (Matt), your Momma (Ann) and your big brother, Ben (3 yrs?) a huge congratulations! We understand Ben can not say your name properly yet and refers to you as "NoNo" -- thats precious! That's OK, Ben still calls me "Auntie tuNa" - yes, that's correct "tuNa" -- Ben learned how to switch out the "H" in my name for an "N" -- funny huh?

Can't wait to meet you soon!

Way to go Mommy!

Now you have one for each arm Grandma Susan!! he, he.

P.S. This "reward" is for you Annie because I think you are the only person who reads this blog.

~ In the Spring of 2010...

2009-07-01T02:50:00.000-07:00

...we will plant some succulents under the direction of The Garden Goddess, Linda Newman. By July of 2010, we'll have a good supply of "stuff you can throw at us" after they pronounce us "man and wife."

Hi folks: Remember the last time you went to a wedding? Were you able to blow bubbles or throw bird seeds at the bride & groom as they exited the church at the end of the ceremony?

The church we will be married in does not allow:

Bird seed tossing
Rice tossing
Bubble blowing

As the three aforementioned items are seen as a liability in case someone gets hurt on the property. We love the church, we have no problems with their new rules.

WE SIMPLY CHOOSE TO CREATE A SOLUTION by growing some soft greens that are earth-friendly, not expensive, easy to clean-up and won't hurt anyone.

OK wish our "green thumbs" good luck!

1 year and 3 days ago, WE MET...

2009-06-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

June 27, 2008: There was a swimming pool/potluck at Margaret & Dave Rose's condo right on the water (Lake WA) as part of our church's young adult program. Tiger was swimming with about 10 of my friends. One of only two people who chose not to swim that day, I went over to say, "Hello" after Margaret Irribarra (The Rose's grand-daughter) said, "Hey, come over and say hi to the new guy, Tony." When Tony responded to my friendly greeting with "Hey" I knew that he was the one for me. he, he. Above is a picture of Tiger/Piggy from Jan 2009.

~ For my Tiger...

2009-06-29T02:23:00.000-07:00

Like Judge Judith H. said, "You are a brave man."

You have the patience of a saint. I nuvs you Tiger.

In Tribute to Ed M, Farrah F and Michael J.

2009-06-25T16:12:00.000-07:00

Paying our respects to the families, friends and colleagues of:

Mr. Ed McMahon
Miss Farrah Fawcett
Mr. Michael Jackson

May you rest in peace. Jo Lynn always said, "Deaths in one week. They come in three's." Jo Lynn you are right.

For all others who've passed this year and all others who've passed since year 2000.

To include Paul Newman (2008).

For all of you, in your passing a part of my childhood MEMORIES go with you to Heaven.

You will all be missed. Please accept this tribute to you -- a small gesture for the very huge influence you had in my life.

Kristine D. Hubbard: Maid of Honor

2009-06-25T02:41:00.001-07:00

Kristine is a childhood friend of mine. We've known each other since we were 13 and 12 or 12 and 11 -- nobody really knows for sure. (grin) No matter, Kristine lived off of 100th-something street and I lived on 107th St.
Her father (Bruce) was my basketball coach. Mr. Hubbard also taught high school courses (like psychology, driver's ed, etc) to my older siblings. I am the youngest of five.
Growing up, we spent lots of time @ Lake Sammamish and Lake WA. Tu-Ha remembers Kristine washing her hair in Lk. WA at Grandfather Art's beautiful house on the water.
Large volumes of books can be written about The Great Adventures of KD Hubbard and Gal Pal, Tu-Ha but we will save you "all the details." Laugh!
Kristine is a talented fashion designer. She finished at SPU with a distinction in clothing design. Later, she went to NEW YORK to pursue her advanced degrees in Men and Women's clothing at F.I.T. Fashion Institute Technology. New York and Seattle are to Kristine what Los Angeles and Seattle are to Tu-Ha: "A Tale of Two Cities." Lived, breathed and survived both places.
Currently, Miss Hubbard is a flight attendant with NorthWest Airlines.
http://www.nwa.com/
Miss Hubbard's significant other is named Robert P.

Jyothi Ramanathan-Dondero: Bridesmaid & Another Mrs. Dondero

2009-06-25T02:17:00.000-07:00

Jyothi has accepted a great honor to be a bridesmaid for Miss Piggy/Tu-Ha. She is pictured in the right, front of this portrait. Other folks you may recognize in this picture include: Ann holding a red rose (Tony's Momma), Russ in the baseball cap (Tony's Dad) and Tony with the black polo shirt- far right, background.
Jyothi is a resident of Portland, OR. She and her husband, Jason Dondero, have four furry kids with "9 lives." There is a Momma cat, her son and 2 brand new dark kittens.
Jyothi, sounds like "Joe-Thee." Grew up in India and has her Bachelor of Arts from a school in Oregon and her Master's Degree from somewhere near London, England.
At this writing, Jyothi is the only person in the history of man and woman-kind who has been able to SILENCE "Little Chatterbox Tu-Ha" with her "on fire, hot like blazes" chiles within various Indian culinary dishes. Jyothi & Jason love to eat a medley of vegetarian dishes.
Jyothi, Jason, Tony & Tu-Ha like the food at Pumpkin Ridge also.
http://www.pumpkinridge.com/
So that there is no confusion. Ann is "The Real McCoy" - THE Mrs. Dondero. Jyothi is another Mrs. Dondero. By sometime in the early evening on July 24, 2010 I will become "The Other Mrs. Dondero." (smile)

Juliet A Smith: Bridesmaid (Pictured Far Left)

2009-06-25T01:44:00.000-07:00

Julie is a friend/neighbor from Seattle up until 1999.
Later, Tu-Ha and Julie were friends/neighbors in L.A. from 2000 on.
Julie's Mom (Donna) loves it when I pick at her food from across the table. He, he.
Miss Smith is a decorated musician and resides in Glendale, CA. One of her favorite passions is playing her Scottish Bagpipes. She also loves Disneyland & her GPS device.
She is the classical project manager at The Grammy's - The Recording Academy in Santa Monica, CA.
http://www.grammy.com/recording_academy/
Julie's significant other is John B.

Announcing THE MEN of The Wedding Party

2009-06-24T22:45:00.000-07:00

The Future Groom: Anthony T. Dondero
The Best Man: Jason K. Dondero (Younger Brother of The Groom)
Groomsmen: Lewis T. Griffith (Childhood friend of The Groom) Pictured above with his daughter Lia and son, Thomas.
Groomsmen: Scott V. Hoff (College friend of The Groom)

Jyothi and The Brothers Dondero

2009-06-22T02:15:00.001-07:00

Picture taken in Portland, OR.

From left to right: Jyothi (Jason's Better 1/2), Brother Jason and Big brother Tony

For My Father: Mr. Nguyen V. Giang

2009-06-21T13:46:00.000-07:00

(Pictured above is my father and Erika Nguyen (10 yrs) -- Erika is one of six grandkids of my parents. My mother, Lan T. Pham, 1934-2005, rest in peace Mommy. Please know that this picture does little justice to Daddy from an aesthetic level. He is in his 70's but is still carded by folks at Denny's when he orders the senior citizen meal. Daddy is very striking, handsome. In the hey-day of his time (his youth) and now he is still very much "forever young." An Asian Paul Newman of his generation; an Tom Cruise of my generation. If you've seen the movie "Top Gun" - you know a bit about Daddy's first career as a jet fighter pilot. The magnitude of his life story can not be covered on the small space of this blog, perhaps, not even in a novel the size of War and Peace.)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hi Daddy:

I tried to call you twice today and sent you emails and text messages in celebration of Father's Day. I wrote something for you. I am debating whether I should make it public or simply mail it to you in the U.S. Mail. For now, allow Con to say:

I nuvs you very much.
Hope you are having a great time with my two sister's families in Southern Cal.
I can't wait to see you this summer.
I nuvs you Daddy... Happy hoppy hippy skippy Father's Day!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Happy Father's Day to all The Dads Out There !!

2009-06-21T13:35:00.001-07:00

Happy Sunday to all:

Happy, happy Dad's Day to all current Dads, future Dads and the Dads that went before us.

This weekend finds Tiger and Piglet in Oregon with Tiger's Family.

Yippee! We are having fun visiting with brother, Jason and wife, Jyothi. Also, we had dinner with Russ & Ann (Tiger's Parents) and consumed non-stop Vietnamese food buffet @ Steve's Mom's house. Of course, the star of the show at Steve's Mom's place was little Rhea -- we love you little girl! We love clowning around with you. (See picture above: Lil Rhea and Uncle Tony)

This weekend summarized with 3 words: Fun, Family and lots of FOOD! Yummy!!

~ June 19th: An Important Day

2009-06-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

Mo's Birthday! Happy happy day! You are our favorite citizen in Illinois. Happy, happy job hunting! Every multi-national company and municipality would be lucky to have you!
Commander Tiger -- You are free!
I will find my Magical Strings -- playing music freely!

~ Annie's Baby Shower...

2009-06-11T00:10:00.000-07:00

...for soon to pop out baby boy, Noah.

This makes the future bride wonder, "Will Tony & I be able to afford kids one day?"

We'll cross that bridge when we come to it. For now, allow me to share some pictures of us girls at The Seattle Yacht Club honoring Ann & Noah in her tummy at this writing. he, he.

~ My future husband, Tony...

2009-06-09T03:46:00.000-07:00

... as a teenager and with a beard a few moons ago. Forgive me for this honey but I just had to share with the audience! You are very photogenic - a cutie pie!! he, he.

~ The Specifics on "Gifts"

2009-06-09T02:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends and Family:

First, allow me to say that I know this note may appear to some folks as "premature" and even "presumptive." However, several similar questions propel me to journal this information.

Some folks asked, "Where are you registered?" "What are you going to choose for your wedding registry?" "Can I help you pick out the China or wedding linens?"

The answer: No, there is no wedding registry. There will be no wedding registry.

WHY?

Answers:

(1) The future bride has her "worldly possessions" -if they can be called that- diversified over 4 different residences in Renton, Issaquah, Capitol Hill and North Seattle. She has every small appliance known to people on this planet and the neighboring planets.

(2) The future groom has more than enough "stuff" and 'boxes of stuff" to "go through and simplify" before the wedding day.

(3) In short, the future Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Dondero beg you, plead with you to please do NOT give us anything bigger than a 5 x 7 envelope as a gift if you wish for us to be able to fit in the same adobe together.

It is NOT our intention to sound ungrateful or disrespectful in any way. The simple hard facts are as follows:

We have far too many material items & must live more simply by lessening "our goods" so that we have room for positive air flow (or any air flow for that matter) in our new life together and whatever "new to us" dwelling we are destined for.
Before the wedding, we will do everything in our power to "de-junk," recycle and give away gently used items.
After the wedding, we will more than likely live in a small place.

TO CLOSE, We love everybody and want all to know that we sincerely appreciate all the love and kindness you show to us. However, if you gift is more large than a 5 x 7 envelope please attach a receipt to the box so that we may go and return the item. We do not wish to hurt anyone's feelings but wanted to tell the truth in advance.

You ask: Then what are your suggestions for gifts if there is no wedding registry?

Answers:

To uphold the bride's Vietnamese traditions we will follow an old time ritual that is translated literally as "Saluting of the Tables." Here's how it works. To keep it simple, pretend you have 10 circular tables at the reception. Each table has 10 guests, this gives us a total of 100 guests. "Saluting of the Tables" involves the bride and groom going to each table and saying thank you to each and every guest.
Prior to the Bride/Groom making their rounds, each table selects one person (usually the oldest person or someone who likes to talk in public or both) to be the "main spokesperson." Let's refer to this person as "M.SPOKE." In the old country, it was a great honor to speak in public. For some, it was the last time for them to speak in public before death. OK, now let's get back to M.SPOKE. M.SPOKE's role is quite simple yet significant. M.SPOKE collects cards with money enclosed from each person at the table.
The money is a two-parter gift to the bride and groom to help them (a) pay for the party/reception (b) start a new life together.
When the Bride/Groom make their way to the 1st table, the very 1st M.SPOKE has collected the cards/gifts and prepared a brief and sincere "speech" to deliver to the newlyweds. After M.SPOKE says all they wish to say, M.SPOKE hands to the newlyweds the small stack of cards/gifts. More good salutations are exchanged and the couple moves onto the next table.
Repeat, again until all tables have been "saluted."
Questions? Please call 206.799.6554 or email tonytigertuha@yahoo.com (an email address only for the purpose of answering questions pertaining to the wedding.)
Thank you for your time and efforts reading all this stuff The Bride writes.
Cheerios.

Victoria Day in Stanley Park, Vancouver BC

2009-06-07T10:36:00.000-07:00

A Peachy Flower

2009-06-06T04:45:00.000-07:00

This blog needs a picture now, how is this one? From a garden in Olympia, WA.

~ DONDERO: That's Italian!!

2009-06-05T02:53:00.000-07:00

Dear People of the Earth:

One of my many projects in the last few months = trying to find some folks related to my future husband. There is a much longer story to this but it's all good and for good things. Here are some avenues I've walked down...

On Facebook, there are over 500 people with this last name. The first 5 people listed -- I know and they know me. After two dozen notes to strangers with this last name, FB warned me that they might shut down my account because of suspicious behavior. OK - whatever. Guess I won't be trying to find my friend Aimee Swenson with the same method.
Google: Tells me almost the same info. I found Tony's dad, a singer song writer, an old school and some diamond folks.
A variety of other non-internet related searches proved "non-productive."
Anyone out there with any good ideas on how to find folks?

Weather in Seattle: HOT

2009-06-03T15:51:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am aware that 85 degrees might be nothing compared to The Palm Springs weather (112 degrees) I used to drive in... visiting one client to the next but for The Emerald City -- this is hot. Other times I would get a break in my sales territory in Long Beach, CA -- summertime was only 99 degrees because it was more close to the Ocean.
Maybe that's not the bad part. Perhaps, it is the pollen that drifts like thick, white tuffs of cotton -- looks like puffy snow outside. That's the part that gets to most of us. For some of us, our watery eyes are so itchy that we might want to gouge our eyes out. Non-stop running noses and sneezing enough to go through a medium box of Kleenex per day.
What does this prove? The Ying and Yang of life. For everything good there may be something involved that is not that great and vice versa.
Such is the amateur philosopher in me...Bye for now.

FAQ & Advanced Directives

2009-06-02T13:51:00.000-07:00

Hi folks:

Later, when time permits please allow us to answer these Frequently Asked Questions:

Where and how did you meet? Short Answer: Nearby Lake WA. ** Extended answer later.
Where are you registered for your wedding gifts? Short answer: There is no bridal or wedding registry. **
Why are you waiting so long to get married? Why the extended time from now until July 2010? Short answer: More time is needed to take care of a bunch of stuff. **

Last item for this entry having nothing to do with the wedding but important nonetheless:
Tu-Ha's personal crusade.
A shout out to those who are domestic partners/living together/ on the way to getting married or not going to get married but sticking together. Some brief stuff now, extended info later.

A short story about how I had to get 2 witness' to sign an advanced directive as my mother was in a hospital, Northern Orange County, CA around 2003/2004.
Heaven forbid. If something happened to your partner -- do you know what they want? If they can't speak for themselves - do you have any idea what their last wishes may be?
When the nurse/doctor/medical staff ask you. (1) Are you family? (2) Do you have the same last name? Do you have a piece of paper that says your spouse/partner wishes for you to be by their bedside? Or will you be asked to leave your partner's room because you fail to show evidence that you belong there?
I will expand on this issue when more time allows. For now, please protect your rights and the rights of your partner. Don't wait til the last minute to "sandbag just as the flood waters rush to your feet."

Signing off,
I am,
Tu-Ha

Please read Tony's work...

2009-06-02T13:21:00.001-07:00

At your convenience, please visit these sites and in the search section type in "Tony Dondero" -- from there, you will find a medley of his writings. From sports to education and a plethora in between.
http://www.enterprisenewspapers.com/
http://www.heraldnet.com/ --- That is The Everett Herald.
Both of these entities above owned by The Washington Post. http://www.washingtonpost.com/

~ Found: A place for the ceremony...

2009-06-01T17:03:00.000-07:00

Hooray! Hooray!
Tiger and I put down a small deposit for the wedding venue.
The place where we will say "I do."
Now we have to make a decision on the place for the reception AFTER we find out an approximate number of attendees.
For the safety and security of our guests/family/friends we will not discuss the specifics on this blog. The address & other info will be conveyed in a formal, hard copy wedding card invitation in several months. Cross your fingers -- maybe you might get invited to Our United Nations Nuptials! he, he. Cheerios!!

~ Mr. Bailey Bear, a picture of...

2009-05-30T03:04:00.000-07:00

Hello:
Can anyone read what I am typing here?
"Time will tell but for now this "new posting" is having some technical difficulties." OK, so you may be thinking, "Who's that old guy?"

Some answers:

(a) Real name: James P. Bailey. More Alias: Jimmy, Dadan, Uncle Jimmy, Uncle Minnie, The Irish Prince of Madison Park, Hi-Me Oso, Tu-Ha's "Other Mother" in the form of an Irish Man, Bear, etc.

(b) Formalities: James P. Bailey, Ph.B, JD, Ph.D

(c) Statistics: 83 yrs young. 8 kids, 20 grand-kids, 14 or so Great-Grand Kids. Himself, he is #2 of 11 original kids. Batting average: Almost 500 when he was younger.

(d) Other noteworthy items: Born in the city where Rocky was made famous. Year of the Tiger. Survived The Great Depression. Army Paratrooper WWII. Practiced law from 1951-1991. Clients? "8 to 80, crippled or crazy -- I took care of everybody." The last chapters included Pro Bono work for the Thlingit Indians of the Pacific NW.

(e) As he jokes, "My life is an open book. It's blank on every page." Followed by large fits of laughter... Mr. Bear plays a huge role in the friendship stage, courtship stage and continuing stages of "Our Life Together by Tony the Tiger and Little Baby Tu-Ha."

(f) Forgive me for this. I must reveal one small detail after one big obvious statement.

Statement: It is true, we are only able to invite so many people to the wedding. Our dream would be to have the whole world be present to witness The Nuptial Bliss of Tig & Pig but economic realities humble us.
Small Detail: If you are lucky enough to get a hard copy invitation, you will find that it may say something like this...

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Giang V. Nguyen, Father of the Bride
The Late Mrs. Lan T. Pham, Mother of the Bride
(btw - this is not on the card but fyi -
Vietnamese women do not have to take on their husband's last name)
and Dr. James P. Bailey, Psuedo Uncle
proudly announce the marriage of their child,

Miss Tu-Ha P. Nguyen to Mr. Anthony T. Dondero

the son of

Dr. Russell A. Dondero, Father of the Groom
Mrs. Ann M. Dondero, Mother of the Groom

Picture taken at his daughter (Paula's) home in Houston, TX (December 2008).

Our Fair City / "Next Postings"

2009-05-28T00:11:00.000-07:00

TONY'S PHOTO OF THE FALLS AT SNOQUALMIE. Annie didn't your folks own the radio station or something nearby? I ask you because I think you are the only one who reads this blog. BTW, your blog is fabulous girl. Picture taken a few years ago.

TIGER TOOK THIS PICTURE of *Qwest Field, *SafeCo Field and +Mt. Rainier from Anthony's Homeport Restaurant (Tiger's namesake) a few years ago, maybe 2006. Nice shot, good picture but I still refer to them as * The Two Monstrosities not far from +A Natural Wonder.

To close out, allow us to share with you possible "news clippings" for future postings:

In complete random order...
A walk down memory lane. Yakima, Walla Walla, Sunnyside, WA.
"Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't."
In memory of Shirley. Athena & Pendleton, OR.
Garbage Disposals: Why they don't like eggshells.
The Searles summer tour of the U.S. before heading back Poland.
Annie's baby shower. Honoring Annie and soon to pop out baby, Noah. Auntie Tu-Ha is so happy for you!
Wendy and # 3 kid arrives End of August. Auntie Tu-Ha is so proud of you!
Turkey in November. Is it Poultry or an actual Country?
Food Pictures. Before and after because we love taking pictures of food.
Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs
Our engagement party in Southern Cal, January 2009.
A Cream Cheese Danish vs. A Great Dane
and so much more...We'll also share any late breaking news!
For now, we bid you "Cheerios!"

In no particular order, Thank You...

2009-05-24T04:06:00.000-07:00

Please allow me this time to recognize those folks who we've seen in the last several months...People who touched our lives with their gracious heart, lively spirit and general goodness. Good friendship is hard to earn, even more difficult to find. We are humbled by the many blessings we receive daily. May the world know and welcome the love that we receive each and every day of lives.
PORTLAND, OR. Thank you to Tony's Parents (Ann & Russ) and Tiger's sister in law, Jyothi. Good food inside, lots of pictures outside. Sorry we missed Jason -- next time Buddy! I want to "try out" Pumpkin Ridge someday.
SALEM, OR. Steve, Jen and Little Rhea. We loved spending time with you folks and especially with Rhea. Interesting walk along the water, Rhea laughing, Rhea playing, Rhea Big Hugs... She's my little soul mate. I wish we were neighbors.
VANCOUVER B.C. (Canada). Inspired by Mr. Jack Andrews - my 4th grade teacher. Mr. Andrews thanks for the complimentary pass you gave us. We thought of you many times on the train and at Stanley Park. Your superb French speaking skills could have helped me a good sum. Can you believe? One time, I remembered what you taught me about "parlez-vous francais" and it got me out of tough situation. Can't wait to do coffee with you and Judy.
SEATTLE, WA. Dr. Santosh Sinha (biochemistry Ph.D) A real special chance and honor to meet your wife (from India) and your kids (the successful businessman in Los Angeles and the student at Seattle University - my Alma mater.) Seems like it was "just yesterday" that you and I taught interviewing skills and resume writing together in Irvine, CA.
TACOMA, WA. The Griffith Family. Lewis accepted an honor to be one of Tony's groomsmen. They have a lot of history since age 3. Michelle made an excellent dinner. Thomas and Lia were the highlights - indoors and outdoors. Buddy - you are super sweet.
OLYMPIA, WA. Tom & Anne. I have known you and your sister, Lisa since high school. Your mom/dad and sister, Gina, all The H's are like family to me. Tom is a good person and a generous host. Anne thank you for the thoughtfulness you show to me. You are so beautiful to me, within and without.
Happy Memorial Day Weekend! Let us take this time to thank all those living and not living who fought/are fighting for our freedoms.

~ This weeks life lessons

2009-05-22T05:43:00.000-07:00

Brownies
Taxi cab stuff
Lids on jars
There is more but I will save you the details.
The lessons are not mine.
Signing off, Tu-Ha.

~ Dress On for Tu-Ha, Hats Off to Beth

2009-05-20T00:35:00.000-07:00

Here's the bad news: My favorite celebrity did NOT win "Dances with The Stars" on ABC last night. As Uncle Jimmy would say jokingly, "Too bad, so sad, go tell it to Daddy." Laugh! I only watch 2 TV shows so last night's final was a big deal. Congrats to who won!!

http://abc.go.com/primetime/dancingwiththestars/index?pn=index

The GOOD NEWS: A very gracious person named Beth has given me a wedding dress & veil for The Big Day. How did this happen? One evening at Bear's & my birthday gathering Beth approached me and said something like, "I have something I won't use again that you might like to have."

The Challenge: For Little Baby Tu-Ha to lose up to X pounds to fit more better into this princess gown. This can and will be done.

Hats Off to Beth: Dear Beth (and Tom) please make sure you folks have your "best threads" pressed on Friday, July 23, 2010 because we request the honor of your presence THE NEXT DAY, Saturday, July 24, 2010. You are the first person invited AFTER our immediate families. Thank you Beth, your grace and generosity is truly appreciated. Thank you for your kindness and "paying it forward" style. You are wonderful to the very core of your humanity.

What does it look like? My apologies. According to ancient customs I am not allowed to show an illustration as The Groom is not authorized to see it until I walk down the red carpet to the alter "the day of..."

~ A dog friendly park, Carkeek

2009-05-20T00:30:00.000-07:00

An attempt at capturing Carkeek Park along The Puget Sound @ Dusk.
Also, a neighbor's dog, "Doogie Hauser MD."

Sunset by The Cottage

2009-05-20T00:28:00.000-07:00

A Nice Day @ Carkeek Park

2009-05-20T00:26:00.000-07:00

~ Nearby The Cottage: The Puget Sound, Daylight

2009-05-19T22:32:00.000-07:00

~ Random Thoughts

2009-05-18T03:30:00.000-07:00

Any experienced bloggers? Need to talk to you. I can't figure out an advanced feature. Also, how come this thing won't allow me erase stuff I've written? Like specific sentences, 1 paragraph, here, there...
For Tiger: Sorry I wasn't with you on Sunday morning sweetie. I was feeling pretty miserable with my allergies, etc. I am real proud of you. Way to go Tig, luvs from Pig.
For my Momma (Oct 1934 - Feb 2005) R.I.P.: Mommy I wrote you something for Mother's Day 2009 but didn't think it was good enough to share with anybody. I did find a body of water and I read it for you. Know that I am working on Daddy's card for June. Daddy might come to Seattle this summer. If not, I will try to go see him. I nuvs you Chi Lan, thank you for watching out for me from Heaven.
Hey Charlie. Hi buddy. Sorry that I accidentally erased the whole entry about you and your music. I will try to re-do it. Having lots of tech difficulties with this blogspot.com thing. We still have your red hat and some dinner for you if you want to stop by. No leftovers, just good stuff. Anybody listed below, please write me off-line at tinathwinn@yahoo.com -- thank you. Sorry for "thinking out loud" -- I have to do something to clear my mind.
Erin D. When is dinner?
Karyn B. Reschedule?
Anne H. - Yes.
Kristine - When you get back from ___ ?
Annie M - Asked Kelly to write you.
Vic P - You know.
M. Andrews - Thank you. Pictures later.
Barb L. - Call you later.
Linda - I found my _____ book.
Brett C - Sorry we missed you.
Crystal - Where are you?
Fr. J.W. - new placement?
Janice - found
MB - thnx for talking to ____
Rob P. - will send
Sachia/D&T/R&A - thnx
Sarah - sing
Searles
That's all I remember for now.

~ Gratitude: For Dwight & Trudy

2009-05-16T00:25:00.000-07:00

Dear Dwight & Trudy:
Thank you.
Thank you so much.
Thanks for your kindness, friendship and generosity.

It has been over a decade (images of us riding opposite escalators at The Palomino run through my head - Trudy heading South, me heading North) at least but it seemed as if we just saw each other yesterday. We picked up at the last cliffhanger just fine, as if time stood still. No awkward silence, no jams from life's obstacle of logs. Simply smooth flowing streams of conversation and of course, rip tides of laughter. Trudy, you kept that piece of paper of my "last known address in Renton, WA" for almost 11 years in your kitchen basket. So touched was I that you thought enough of me to hang onto to my contact information.

You did not throw out or recycle that scrap of papyrus because you wanted to have some kind of connection to me. You knew that after some cloudy chapter of my life, I would come looking for you & Mr. O. You were right. I will also give credit to a night a few months ago when my human circumstance was best defined as "non-stop allergy fits that demanded I sleep sitting up or standing up in order to breathe." I laugh now, thinking about how I could not sleep and started to find you through the internet for roughly 120 minutes. Half a dozen phone calls later -- bingo! I found the lady with the best hand-writing in the world who is married to the most gentle, and kind giant. A giant of a man who's heart is three times more large than his house. The guy who's spiritual journey probably has Mother Teresa humbled, somewhere in heaven plus. Oh yes, heaven is for the ordinary citizen, HEAVEN PLUS (scientific symbol Heaven+) is for Mother T and The Like. That's correct, you heard it here first, "Tu-Ha Talk News."

For the Great Lady who taught me to write my first forms of cursive writing. Allow me to share a truth with you. My penmanship is worse than in the 3rd grade but I am typically the only one who has to read it these days. That has changed among many other things in this world. However, it's nice to know some folks don't change. I used to think that you were "good people." With the passing years, I am more inclined to say that you are "great people." Remember way back when you were a kid?

I remember moments of my childhood. Many moons ago, my Mom and Dad said something to me...Something I will never forget. While these are not their exact words, it went something like this: "Tu-Ha. Remember to keep one person from each chapter of your life with you [in your heart] where ever you may go. One person may seem to be a very small number in the millions of individuals who walk this earth. If only you touch the life of a single person, that would be fine because that person is a universe."

Dwight & Trudy, thank you being part of our universe and allowing us to be a part of yours. You were there for me when I sat in your classroom. You were there for me when I accepted my excellence in studying award in Jr. High - I dropped a large piece of cake on the shoe of the man talking to Dwight. You both listened to my growing pains later in High School. Believed in me when I could not talk my way out of a traffic ticket and later gave me confidence to know that I could sell ice to ancient civilizations on The North Pole.

Again, my gratitude.

PS -- It is very early on Monday morning, May 18th but this blogger system is stamping the time as sometime on Saturday - weird.

...Top 10 Things The Minister Said...

2009-05-15T01:05:00.000-07:00

Do not overcomplicate this wedding.
Do what you want because it is your wedding.
Do not get caught up in the spiral of "too many details."
It's OK if you can not invite everyone that you want.
Allow the blending of your heritages to create this portrait of love and a life together.
Yes, it is true. You will not please everyone.
It's OK to blend traditions with contemporary things.
1 of the 3 ministers here can officiate the wedding.
It's OK to have blessings from a medley of different spiritual leaders (i.e. a Catholic priest, Buddhist Monk, etc)
If you have out of town visitors maybe you could hang around to spend MORE TIME (like the day after The Nuptials, Sunday) with them and then go on your honeymoon.

Rhea: On The Slide w/Hollywood Glasses

2009-05-13T10:39:00.001-07:00

Little Rhea, resting...

2009-05-13T02:19:00.000-07:00

Little Rhea: Breakfast Champion

2009-05-13T02:16:00.000-07:00

~ More Pictures of Little Rhea

2009-05-13T02:12:00.000-07:00

Found: Most Tiny Flower Girl, Little Rhea

2009-05-12T19:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends and Family:

We will post a picture as soon as we get past some technical difficulties.

For now, we proudly announce our VERY FIRST TINY, FLOWER GIRL MISS RHEA LOUISA TRUONG. Little Rhea was born in September 2006. On the date of our wedding, Lil Rhea will be approximately 3 yrs and 10 months old. Rhea loves music, books and her dog, Julian. When asked if she wanted to be our flower girl, Rhea replied, "Ookk-kay."

Rhea resides in Salem, OR where Poppa is a medical doctor and Momma is a nurse. Poppa (Steve) went to school with Tony at Whitman College. Steve had more school in Oregon and completed his residency in San Antonio, TX. Momma is from the Philippines and is an extraordinary culinary chef. Rhea's paternal Grandmother makes "out of this world" Vietnamese food!

Please allow me to close with these thoughts:

(1) My nieces and nephews (Cara, Jason, Andrew, Alissa, Samantha & Erika -- ranging from ages 10 yrs to 16 yrs) are by far the most precious people in the world.

(2) The same goes for your children, grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

STILL, don't you think Lil Rhea is such a peachy cupcake? Cutie Pie!

Oh, wait. Barbara Walters is on line 2. "Hi Barbara, yes, uh-huh. Of course, I am going to ask my nieces and nephews to be floral girls, ring bearers and ushers where applicable. When the time is right, I will follow through. I hate to bother their parents since everyone is so busy. I can only ask. I respect whatever the answer may be. Oh, ok Barbara. Have a good time interviewing Brad Pitt. Talk to you next week. Bye."

Alcohol: Opinion & Tu-Ha's Response

2009-05-11T03:01:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers:

I received these candid comments from a very dear, long-time friend.

I shall refer to this person as "Nameless."

A long time ago, I studied Journalism in school.

I hope to share the thoughts from Nameless and my response in a fair way.

Everyone does have an opinion.

Nameless, I do value your thoughts and I have more to share with you in my response.

Thank you for sharing your feelings with me.

Sincerely,

Tu-Ha

-----------------------

--------------------------

FROM NAMELESS:

-------------------------------

---------------------------------

A RESPONSE FROM TU-HA

Dear Nameless:

First, your thoughts and feelings are legit.
Second, I apologize if what I wrote offended anyone. Further, none of my writing intentionally implied that those who drink alcohol are bad people. That was not the message I wished to convey.
Third, allow me this time to clarify some things and share with you what I was truly trying to say.

In my almost 4 decades on this earth, I have lost more friends in alcohol related deaths than to any disease on this earth. Far too many young lives, all kinds of people have been lost to beer, wine...mixed with driving a car, etc.
Many weddings I've been to (Asian and Non-Asian couples) have included "drinking games" where the bride/groom and/or close friends are urged or dared to "drink a good sum." I always hated those games - people pressuring other people to do something just because it's supposedly "fun." Once, I saw a special on Oprah. The show was about these two kids who got tired of hearing people get killed by guns. After some research, the young kids found out that it was actually "the bullets" that killed people not the actual gun. Together the kids created a campaign to rid their neighborhood and other places of "bullets." In other words, "if there is no alcohol provided at an event, the likelihood is less that a person or persons will be pushed into any drinking games or be subject to do anything they do not wish to do under group pressure."
Most of all, in my eyes and the eyes of most of my countrymen and countryWOmen...If a person does NOT wish to come to my wedding because I am choosing NOT to serve alcohol then perhaps our friendship is very shallow. Perhaps, we were never friends. As a wedding goer, I've joined the nuptial celebrations of many family and friends. I attended the weddings because I wanted to honor those and their families being joined in Holy Matrimony. I did NOT care what food or drinks were being served. I cared only that those being married knew that I was there to share their happiness. That's all that mattered to me. Not the beverages available to quench my thirst.
It's almost 90% "for sure" that the place we shall rent for The Big Day will NOT permit alcohol of any kind on premise. Since this wedding is barely getting by on a shoe string budget, it is also for financial reasons that we "cut out of the budget" items that are NOT absolutely essential for the celebration. It is my belief that alcohol is NOT a staple food item.
Lastly, I have some other intense thoughts on this issue but if you remember nothing else from this communique. Please know this. Please know that there is more than one significant member of the wedding party who's medication [they take] can NOT mix with any type of alcohol. For their protection, we have made the decision that we've made. We are trying to eliminate as many "wild cards" as possible. No sense in taking any unnecessary risks. My apologies if I do not believe that it requires a bit of alcohol to make an event festive.

Respectfully and Sincerely Yours,

Tu-Ha P. Nguyen

~ Goodnight, beautiful blessings to all

2009-05-08T01:12:00.000-07:00

This is much easier than...

2009-05-08T01:09:00.000-07:00

...finding words to fill the page.

~ A picture is worth (fill in the blank)

2009-05-08T01:06:00.000-07:00

~ By Tu-Ha's Cottage

2009-05-08T01:01:00.000-07:00

~ Pink Lovelies by the private driveway

2009-05-08T00:57:00.000-07:00

La fleur de la Linda ~

~ More of Linda's Flowers

2009-05-08T00:54:00.001-07:00

You like?

~ Linda: Garden Goddess

2009-05-07T22:25:00.000-07:00

To all the good people of this Universe:

Have you ever met someone who is the salt of the earth? An individual who is literally kind to the very core of their being? We have met and know of such a person.

It is our privilege and honor to announce the name of a gracious friend, neighbor and volunteer.
While this person has accepted this appointment on a tentative basis due to the wedding being 14 months away...We are still delighted to share with you that LINDA R. NEWMAN has made "strong agreements" to be our FLORAL CONSULTANT. Miss Newman's "job" will be to help the bride/groom select a small arrangement of flowers on a SHOE STRING BUDGET, select a dependable florist, manage the delivery of goods to a church and help in some basic arrangement activities.

Oh, wait. Connie Chung is at the door. I will be right back, gotta let Connie in you know? Connie has reviewed my posting about Linda, Garden Goddess. As a curious journalist, she asks, "What experience does Miss Newman have with flowers/gardens?" I replied, "Her grandfather was a gardener and botanists, her father did the same and she follows their footsteps very skillfully. One time I showed pictures of Linda's Work to a Master Gardener. The M.G. was wildly impressed and believed that Linda's work represented the hand of a true Master Garden Goddess. On another topic, we learn a great deal about living a more "green life" through the wisdom of Miss Newman."

Pictures of my favorites in Linda's garden appear nearby.
You make the call. Does she make the grade?
Picture taken May 2009

You need a more big spoon!

2009-05-07T06:07:00.000-07:00

We should all eat orange Jello with a giant spoon! There is so much happiness involved! he, he. By the way, no matter how many times I try to bring the word "we" down to the rest of the sentence...It will not move. Hmmm, the frustrations with technology! Lol! (Taken 3/7/09)

Yummy!

2009-05-07T06:05:00.001-07:00

Tu-Ha says, "Wow, this is so good! Was this made by the owner & operator of Cafe Tulip?" :)

~ Essence of the Emerald City: Green

2009-05-07T05:54:00.000-07:00

Driving out of Carkeek Park, not far from The Cottage. Nearby The Puget Sound. (Pix taken 09/08)

One of the Bride's Most Favorite Photo Subjects

2009-05-07T05:51:00.001-07:00

"The Man" - A Ferry Ride to Whidbey Island, WA. Taken by Miss Piggy on 03/08/09.

Pictures provided by "Portraits by Tu"

2009-05-07T05:35:00.000-07:00

A little bit of purple and red hues nearby Leschi Marina.

Mt. Rainier from Lk. Washington Blvd

2009-05-07T05:33:00.001-07:00

This mountain is very special to us. After our initial meeting in June of 2008, we were invited to a young adult "retreat" on Rainier sometime in August 08. It was here that we talked for many hours. Don't most relationships start out this way? He, he. (Taken Summer 2008)

Peanuts, Alcohol, Smoking allowed OUTSIDE...

2009-05-07T04:32:00.000-07:00

... of ceremony and reception building.

We know. To some of you, this will feel devastating but we wanted "almost full disclosure" on this blog. Your cooperation on these matters are greatly appreciated and perhaps, could save someone's life. Here we go:

No Nuts, no peanuts, no almonds, no "any kind of nuts" at all permitted inside. Ladies and gentlemen, we have not one but at least a small handful of people who are very allergic. There will be "no nuts" in any of the food. We will ask our ushers to gently remind guests, staff, others to look inside their pockets, purses, what-have-you's. If an individual has any snack items "on person" containing nuts of any kind we will ask the individual to dispense of the item in the trash or return the item to their car.
Please folks, we are not joking. The bride used to laugh at warnings like these until someone we know died from a "peanut allergy." Reality of the seriousness of this peanut disease rushed in after that experience. Rest in peace friend.
We will not serve alcohol during the reception, inside the building. Not even champagne. Please forgive us. We wish not to put a damper on the party, however, the future bride and groom have an aversion to alcohol. She does not drink and he is better off without. There are two other "signif" reasons: (a) The building we will choose, more than likely does not allow serving of alcohol (b) We wish to stay away from any liabilities. Besides, if anything bad happened to our guests as they left for home, we could never forgive ourselves. Please try to understand where we are coming from.
Of course, indoor smoking almost anywhere in the State of WA in a community-based or shared building is not permitted. Further, we may have guests who require oxygen due to their geriatric and/or health conditions.

To close, we appreciate your consideration and cooperation in this matter. We will have an outstanding celebration without the aforementioned items. Cheers!

Venue, Disclaimer

2009-05-06T05:31:00.000-07:00

To our wonderful circle of friends & family,

Please be advised that:

We will decide on a PLACE for the ceremony before the end of this month.
We will NOT disclose the exact address or time on this blog.
The aforementioned details will appear ONLY in printed form by way of a hard copy, private wedding invitation card. We hope you receive this in the U.S. Mail or International Mail before 12/31/09.
We had to make an executive decision to open this blog to "the public." From the get-go we started to send "by invitation only" messages to you but there were far too many technical struggles for a good sum of people.
That's how we came around to # 2 above.
In summary, if you feel that many areas of this blog are vague...You are right, we are being vague "on purpose" for the safety and security of all of you and for us.
Any questions or concerns, please let us know.
This concludes this disclaimer. Thank you for taking the time to read our thoughts.

SACHIA, THE QUEEN OF CAKE with a caveat

2009-05-05T21:50:00.000-07:00

Hello Distinguished Family & Friends:

It is our utmost privilege to announce the name of the pastry chef who MIGHT create a magical, elegant yet simple, yummy WEDDING CAKE. Our sentimental favorite, the lady who created an enormous , spectacular, delicious birthday shamrock cake for Tu-Ha & Bear, someone who sits nearby Tu-Ha at St. Therese Catholic Church on "some Sundays"...MISS SACHIA TINSLEY.

Chef Tinsley is our friend & a Seattle Pastry Phenom. She is the main executive pastry chef at The Wild Ginger, a Zagat rated restaurant downtown.

http://www.wildginger.net/our-food/Chef-Profiles.aspx

She and her sister started another magnificent restaurant called Osteria La Spiga on Capitol Hill.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/entertainment/2003619858_leson160.html?syndication=rss

THE CAVEAT: Sachia (The Cake Lady) will marry Scott (The Wine Guy) this year. If, The Cake Lady and The Wine Guy get whisked off to another country to open up a restaurant before June of 2010 and/or start a new life with "Little Baby Cakes" BEFORE "The Union of Antonio & Little Baby Tu-Ha" ... We will have to pick another Cake Chef/2nd runner-up. Not to worry, we have some "ideas" for the 2nd runner-up just in case Our Queen of Cake, Sachia is unable to fulfill her duties at our wedding. Still, it would mean a great deal to us if Sachia makes our cake.

To close, we promise you, if nothing else, "There will be cake at our Nuptial Knot Tie." Who will make the cake? "Only time will tell."

Seattle, WA

2009-05-05T01:28:00.001-07:00

Yes, this is the city & state for the wedding.

For the sake of our guests, we hope to find the place for the service and reception place very close to each other. We've known far too many guests at recent weddings getting lost in traffic for hours. It is our commitment that our guests are saved from traffic jams & having to pull out their GPS devices.

http://www.seattle.gov/html/visitor/

Pictures taken from Rob's Rooftop Condo, 8 stories up: Aug. 2008.

Wedding Date: Saturday, July 24, 2010

2009-05-04T03:58:00.000-07:00

We wish to share with you the announcement of our first day as "husband & wife." Now pray for us as we continue to find the appropriate VENUE for this celebration. The most ideal size, location with adequate parking and resources for the elderly and handicapped are most needed.

Any suggestions [within reasonable financial "dreams"] are welcome. Lastly, it is our hope that a variety of SeaFair events do NOT occur on the same weekend as we would like not to compete with those high volume traffic & people events. The future bride has been on the phone with The City of Seattle for several weeks. Unfortunately, no one at The City will confirm or deny the dates for SeaFair & other summer festivals at this time.

http://www.seafair.com/

KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED OK?

http://www.timeanddate.com/calendar/?year=2010

Picture Taken: End of Aug. 2008: Rob's 40th+ bday party organized by Kristine. Not far from Stewart & Denny, 8 flights up.

~ First Test Msg ...

2009-05-03T05:23:00.000-07:00

...Does this work?

YES.