Fiddle Heads & Dilly Beans

Bet you can't guess what these curly suckers are! Yup, you guessed it! The Almighty Fiddleheads!

On our weekend adventure to Cabot, Vermont, my friend's family served these amazing greens called fiddleheads. Not quite sure if they're written as a compound word, but I must say, they were deee-licious! (That is, if you're into veggies like me. Roar!)

Fiddleheads seems to be a wild, forest grown vegetable - a cross between an artichoke, an asparagus and bean. Pick before it uncurls, and you've got yourself a tasty treat. It tastes buttery and nutty. Some say that fiddleheads are everywhere, but I have yet to find one growing in my backyard. The Amazing Fiddly Fiddleheads only existed in rare areas during a short period of the year. Thanks to the Daniels' Family, they gathered and picked the very last of the freshest bunch.

Veda Bee and me will not give up our search in the Greater Boston area - rubber boots...check! Flashlight (check!), basket (check!), treats and Wild Plants for Dummies - check, check! (Wait says we need three bags of treats? VEDA! Dah dah!)

But what about the Great Dilly Beans, you ask? Well, they were delicious as well, but I liked the fiddleheads better. Beans, beans...good for the heart. The more you eat, the more you...well, you know. Let's just say that beans are beans especially if they are pickled. A bit tangy and one can't consume too much without having to shovel a large pile of lasagne or glass of water to quench the tang of your tongue. So enjoy the Great Dilly Bean one small delicate bite at a time!

What are your favorite vegetables? (Miss Lou: Artichokes, fiddleheads, kale, ice cream, pea sprouts, brussel sprouts)

What are your least favorite? (Miss Lou: green bell peppers, alfa alfa sprouts)

Which ones do you wish would just go extinct like the dinosaurs? (Miss Lou: Okra - bleh!)

For all those who don't get enough greens for your genes, you best be making up for the vitamins, minerals and chlorphyll elsewhere, or BEWARE!

Miss you all & be good to the body!

Miss Dr. Healthy Heart

Dim Sum for Everyone!

It's Sunday! And the perfect day for a family dim sum hang out. Where will you go? Fremont? San Jose? Sunnyvale? Oakland or San Francisco Chinatown? What is your favorite dish?

Dim Sum is literally translated to mean "a pinch or dab of heart" and the light dishes are served with Chinese tea. The meal is consumed in the morning until noon (or two o'clock for some places.) It's like the equivalent of a Chinese-style brunch. The dishes are stacked in bamboo bowls. Shrimp dumplings, pork dumplings, rice noodles, onion pancakes, chicken feet, fruit, sweet or salty buns are some of the many examples for dim sum.

My fondest memory is meeting all my relatives in Oakland Chinatown for a Sunday dim sum. My dad would order a few main dishes, pour the tea and us kids would point to all our favorites. I loved the rice noodles with shrimp and all the vegetable dishes (go figure!). My dad loved the duck and oily pork. My mom would gnaw on the oxtail soup bones and my brother would eat anything. Though I was a picky eater, I still inhaled those chicken legs and spit out the bones all all once. Man, it's been a long many years since I've done that! And to be honest, I don't really miss it.

I love to go to Sunday dim sum on occasion, but not often since the food isn't necessary all that healthy. But just like ice cream parlors, fast food and all-you-can-eat buffets, it's the fun of eating and the happy family get-togethers...

Hope you're enjoying this beautiful, hot Sunday - dim sum or not day.

Boston Marathon

Is this not one of the coolest athletes ever? On that gloriously gray April day, thousands of participants braved the challenging 26.2-mile stretch. There was a little rain, but it was almost perfect weather for a nice long run across the city of Boston.

I took this photo at the last five miles because it simply brought tears to my eyes. It reminded me that anything is possible with hard work, dedication and lots of passion - just like our athletes: Bryan, Kat C, Osi, Samuel, Andrew, Felix, Jake and all you others playing tennis, wall ball and basketball.

If you're ever feeling down, know that there are so many people working extra hard to get to where they want to be. Know that can, no matter what. You can and you will.

Miss Lou is always so proud of each and every one of you as you embark on a new journey.

Enjoy and send me photos to post!

Michael Jackson is DEAD...

Shocking, sad, predictable, or are you mad at the media for not protecting this once child star from all the craziness and fame?

Michael Jackson dies at 50. Last night, "The King of Pop" was rushed to the hospital after five decades of hard work, fame, lawsuits, possible drug addictions, too many plastic surgeries gone wrong and lastly, failed rescue from a collapsing cardiac arrest.

The Los Angeles hospitals tried to perform CPR, but Pop Star was not able to recover from the heart attack. Some say it was too much pill-popping, his delicate health, or trying too hard to get back in shape for his upcoming concerts. Some just say it's time. Most people are sad and mourning his too early death.

Fifty years of irreplaceable child talent now gone.

In honor of his death, I have added a few of his most memorable...and a few other perspectives.

-Time: His past, present and future
-Young Michael Jackson, a true performer
-More on Michael oh, wait...that's not...
-The New Michael? Or Beatles?
-Mini Michael
-A Different Kind of Mini Michael

We'll miss you, kid genius!

Go Bry! Future Gold Medal Champ!

Congrats Future Olympian!

Bryan might attend the North American Challenge Cup race in Los Angeles, California. As his fellow number ONE fans, we cheer him on! However, if Bryan doesn't make it, he will be going to Hawaii for a Western Zones race. Either way, it doesn't sound too shabby for a young, hard working swimmer.

After all these races in August, Bryan will be off for some down time away from the chlorinated waters to visit relatives in China.

We're proud of you, Bry and will be cheering for you the whole way!

Keep us updated!

Music & the Art of Race Meditation

All athletes take moments of downtime to focus, go over race strategies, stretch, hydrate & meditate. This young athlete pops in his iPod and listens to his favorite tunes in preparation to win it all...What is Bryan's favorite tunes before a race? Can you guess which race he was preparing for? What were his results? Does he ever sing those tunes when he streams through the clear water?

Wait to find out!

Go Champ!

Guess who is swimming?

Hey!

No

cheating!

Guess

before

scrolling!

Nope! It's not Bryan...

...he doesn't have this much facial hair yet. Before that happens, Bryan is already well on his way to becoming the next Michael Phelps. Mr. Phelps looks pretty satisfied in this shot.

All photos have been a courtesy of Frank S. Thanks Bryan's Dad!

Amazing photos!

Rain, rain...go away!

Sun-starved Veda Bee is tired of the rain. It's been raining none stop for almost two weeks! Since she hates the cold and getting wet, Veda has been hiding under down comforters and barking at the sky. You can't blame her, right? It's JUNE, for goodness sake. It's supposed to be summer!

Drizzle, drizzle, drizzle...but at least this is Miss Lou's favorite kind of weather. Gray, grey skies, thick bloated clouds and wet sidewalks make her smile and appreciate life. This kind of weather is perfect for a long run along the Charles River, hot chocolate with lots of cinnamon, reading on the couch with a great book (Check out "Hunger Games!") and of course, writing writing writing!

What would you do on a rainy day? Listen and download your favorite tunes? If so, make a request and I will add it to our list of 401 Favorites on the side bar! (Thanks Jordan and Claire for your requests!) Or do you prefer reading? If so, start a list of 401 Reading Favorites and your request is on demand. It's amazing what dogs can learn to do when they are bored to death.

Any thing else you recommend?

I'm off for my longest run of the season - 11 miles! Wish me luck that I don't fall flat on my face!

Miss you all and comment soon!

Fremont Gossip Girls (Asian-Style)

If I could write the Asian version of the middle grade Beacon Street Girls, or the young adult Gossip Girl Series, I would most definitely have faces to put on the cover. Phani, Amanda, Kat, Char and Alyssa are far more sweet and caring, but what personality they all have!

I hope all of you are enjoying your summer and tell me your plans!

Zzz...Alyssa, wake up...and comment below!

Miss you all!

Happy Father's Day!

Hi Kids!

I hope all your dads and fathers and babas and blah blahs are having a great time with you. You didn't make him take you out to eat and then force the poor guy to pay, did you? Shame, shame! But I guess you'll make it up later when you become rich or famous or successful or have a job and a salary to pay for a boba tea or movie or something.

My dad is sadly more than 3000 miles away, but I did manage to still surprise the old guy. Since my dad goes to Peet's coffee EVERY morning for coffee and croissants, this plan was easy. I warned my mom to make sure to let him order. This is how it went at the coffee shop...(or at least what he told me after the fact).

Dad: Two medium coffees, an almond croissant. Oh yes, and an apple turnover for my wife, please.

Coffee Barrista Guy: Here you go, Mr. Chinese Harry Potter.

Dad: Thank you. How much will it be? The usual?

Coffee Barrista Guy: No, no. It's FREE today.

Dad, speechless: Whaaat? What is this?

Coffee Guy: Your daughter already paid for it. Happy Father's Day! And here's a $20 gift card for your next visit!

Mr. Chinese Harry Potter, (a.k.a my dad): What? But she is all the way on the other side of the...huh?

C.B.G: Hahaha...Enjoy!

So yes, I called the really accommodating assistant manager (named James) and he let me prepay over the phone with my card. What a nice guy! If you're ever needing an extra jolt,...okay, maybe if you're craving a whipped cream and hot chocolate...you know where to go!

According to the US Census Bureau, there are 64.3 million fathers in the US; 1.8 million of those are custodial single fathers. There are millions more fathers who don't live with their children every day but are actively involved in their lives. All of these dads deserve our love, honor and respect for all they do.

Happy Father's Day to all those hard working papas, babas, da das and blah blahs...you rock!

Enjoy!

Yum, yum...yum!

Hi again,...

I've made a few changes as you can clearly notice. Since you have all moved forward in YOUR academic careers, I've decided this website needs to do some growing up too. Sigh. What do you think about the new design and colors and fonts and styles and gadgets and photos and...?

Let me know if you want a different color. If you have a blog, be a follower! Add your favorite song and stay awhile for a friendly game of Sudoku.

See you soon and don't get into too much trouble,

Enjoy!
Miss Lou

First Official Day of Summer!

This is Miss Lou and Veda Bee. For my first official week of summer, my friends and I drove to Vermont to visit David Macaulay's art studio, eat ice cream and spend the weekend in a big, big cabin in the forest. Hooray! Congrats on completing yet another successful year!

What are YOUR plans for your first official day?

First off, I would like to assign homework if that's OK.

Assignment 1: Check this blog.

Assignment 2: Stay up late to

a) Watch a great movie
b) Read a fantastic book
c) Listen to music or talk with a friend
d) Spend quality time with the fam
e) Stare in the mirror and laugh hysterically

Assignment 3: Do all of the above.

Assignment 4: Go outside and take in the fresh afternoon air.

Assignment 5: Comment on this blog.

Assignment 6: Get sick eating too much ice cream or chips.

Assignment 7: Try to make up for eating something healthy.

Assignment 8: Play with your dog or cat. (Borrow one!)

Assignment 9: Gather up your friends and play b-ball.

Assignment 10: Swim, laugh, hang out, daydream and eat!

Enjoy your first days of freedom!

Miss Lou

Summer Suggestions

1. Update on Oldie but Goodie News Coverage

2. Fun Stuff

3. Have any other suggestions?

You are about to...

embark on a new journey...

School is done! Where will you go now?

The next challenge is up ahead!

The road feels long, unfamiliar and kind of...haunted!

You feel scared, but courageous and somewhat excited.

Get on your bike and check it out!

Are you brave enough to continue,
or will you wait for the next moment?

Will you take a friend, or go alone?
Who is brave and fun enough to go with you?

Will you plan first, or just go and see what happens?

Enjoy the journey and return safely!

What will you do this summer?

Some of you will make art, origami, crafts...

...some will garden....







while some will just stare in space and daydream.

Many of you will travel and explore new things either at home or away,


But of course, some would just rather be left alone and sleep....zzzzz!

But regardless what you do...

Keep searching for what makes you feel strong and happy!

Last Day Countdown!

Smile!

I know this is the Last Day before some of you will say good-bye to Forest Park forever. (Andrew...I said SMILE!) Okay, maybe some of you are feeling a bit sad, scared, happy, angry (not sure why you would), stressed, remorseful (why?), grateful, relieved, confused…(anyone have a thesaurus?).

Questions to Comment:

What is your greatest memory of your FP experience?

What is your worst memory?

I won't ask your favorite teacher since that's obvious...haha. But I will
ask what you hope to take with you when you leave. For those of you
with a one or a few more years left, what do you want to do next/last year
at this fabulous school?

My greatest memory of Forest Park is the 8AM morning runs around the school with our bright yellow shirts and music breakfasts. I remember when our dear friend J had to move away and how we call made these wonderfully kind speeches to her (and ate lots of junk food - in honor of her). I enjoyed the Talent School try-outs and hosting for the parents and student body. I loved sitting with all of you during lunch to make sure you were all eating healthy foods...(but of course, even the teachers crave junk sometimes!) Most of all, I miss listening to your everyday stories, dramas, watching you athletes playing basketball, listening to music and laughing with you all.

My worse memory is...those times when emergency Circle Time moments had to take place. I didn't like seeing others feel angry or sad, but I just remember how well we openly discussed our problems and anger and craziness. (Even Miss Lou has plenty of those moments.) And then we would go out and play for extra recess!

In hopes we will continue to keep in touch and thanks for all those students still writing me to catch me up with your lives (JH, AS, DC, ED, CY, KJ, CC…)

Congratulations to ALL graduates of Forest Park 2009!

Always,
Miss Lou

A Picture Tells A Story

Each student received a piece of construction paper with a code written on it. When I shouted BEGIN, the students opened to a photo and wrote a 5-minute reflection piece. It could be a description, a narrative, a fantasy or realistic story, notes, song, poem or letter. Here is a beautiful example of a fabulous 5th grade writer...
__________________________
Title: The Typhoon
Author: Alyssa

"Dear Diary,

I was at home taking care of my 6-month little sister. Mother and Father were at work and I was hoping they would bring home some yummy crab. Then I felt a sudden draft. Cold wind isn't good for babies so I walked around looking for the open window.

"A typhoon is coming!" screamed someone. I didn't give it a second thought because last time they cried out a typhoon, it turned out to be a light rain. Besides, we learned that there hasn't been a typhoon in over 50 years. I picked up my sister and walked outside. There I saw a huge wave towering over us. Katie started crying but I could hear nothing. Suddenly, it went down. I ran as fast as I could.

On the way, I saw people running to the boat shack where extra boats are stored. I prayed to God hoping that my parents will make it to safety. I know that a small canoe couldn't stand a chance but all I could do was to hope. I reached the boat shack. Katie looked up into my face as to ask where we were headed, or if she counted on my to help us survive. I pulled out a narrow, long boat. There was some back up food and a bucket of water. I grabbed two oars and put Katie on the seat. So far, the village was just lightly flooded, but the water was still coming down strong. Only two feet of water hugged my ankles as I started to row toward the waters. I wanted desperately to find my parents.

"Don't go there!" shrieked the neighbors, but I kept rowing. A huge wave came when I realized what I was doing. I tried to row back, but the current of the barreling waves got too strong. I grabbed my sister and held her tight. As the waves continued to splash harsh against my face, I made sure Katie's eyes and mouth were closed. I pinched her nose to keep the water from drowning her. Everything blurred from the burn of the water clouding my sight. As I came up for more air, I checked to make sure Katie was still alive. I saw a large boat. I waved. I screamed for help and that is all I remember.

Next, I woke up looking into Mother's kind face. She was holding Katie who was fast asleep. Then Mother told me father was dead. I cried and cried. This horrible typhoon took the innocent life of my father. My mother took my hand and gazed at me with her sad, tired eyes. "You have always been my brave little girl. You saved Katie's life and I am so proud of you." It's hard to think about what I could've done for my father, but I am praying everyday that God is taking good care of my father as He is taking care of us.

I will keep writing because it is the only thing that helps me keep my mind clear."

3 More Days!

Thanks Kevin, Kat and Jordan for keeping me updated.

In the last days of Forest Park, you have:

1) Baseball Game (Go Teachers!!?)
2) Basketball Tournament (Go..?)
3) 501 Idol (Go 401'rs!)
4) Cleaning out your desks (ew)
5) Returning textbooks (Good riddance?)
6) Signing yearbooks (Hooray!)
7) Saying goodbye to teachers and Mr. Ford :(...
8) Making summer plans - bbq, parties, trips
9) Exchanging e-mails, phone numbers, etc...
10) What else?

Summer is almost here! Veda Bee plans to sleep, eat,
sleep, play, sleep, eat, nap in the sun, hide from the
rain, eat, run in the park, take road trips on the
east coast, sleep, eat...

We miss you all and congrats on your last days!

9 More Days?!?!

So,..a little bird tells me there are only a short number
of days left of school. Those leaving Forest Park must
feel a rush of giddy excitement as well as melancholy
sadness, maybe hopeful, maybe scared, maybe free?

Despite falling off the 401 Virtual world, Miss Lou
still thinks often about you all. I am keeping count
of the days left and wonder how life has been.
If you get a chance, tell me what's on your
mind...are you looking forward to summer? Do you
have big plans? Are you wishing Mr. Ford a happy,
happy retirement? I hope so.

Send me a comment!

Always,
Miss Lou

Mood: Happy
Temperature: 62F with a chance of rain