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There is something at Costco cheaper than a Hot Dog!

In preparation for our next trip, Cindy reminded me to stop by Costco for some Imodium (yes, the anti-diarrhea pill). It’s saved me more than once during international travels, so we're not taking chances even though this trip is domestic.

Last week, I stopped by Costco and asked the pharmacist for it.

“How much?” I asked.

“Ninety cents,” she said.

I blinked. “Wait, ninety cents? That’s cheaper than a Costco hot dog!”

She smiled, “But the hot dog is big.”

Touché. I bought three packs. When I came home to tell Cindy, she did not believe me, so she checked my receipt and said it was an unmatchable value.

On my way out, the hot dog talk got me hungry, so I hit the food court. For $1.50, you get a huge dog - big and long - endless condiments and a giant soda. Like other merchandise at Costco, hotdogs, and Imodium are an incredible deal. Costco doesn’t even profit from it; it’s just an additional service to it’s members.

My doctor often told me: Never travel overseas without it. He’s a globe-trotter, too, and he’s shared plenty of stories, especially about water safety and food hygiene in less-developed areas.

One trip stuck with me: we were on a luxury Far Eastern tour and stopped at a beautiful riverside café in a small rural town run by a Western/local couple. As I sipped my coffee, I asked the tour guide where the town’s water came from. She pointed straight at the slow-moving river below us. I stopped drinking mid-sip and stared straight into the river in front.

I’m not sure if she was right, and I hope the water went through intensive treatment process, but ever since, wherever I travel, I often ask about the origin of water, and I never travel without Imodium. One time, a few years back, one of my siblings adamantly told me that I should not buy edible items from certain regions due to his own experience of getting sick. He said for edible items, we should try to buy items made in America or some safer regions. I advised him not to prejudge, but with my own experience a few times, I think he had a point, and yes, I often carry this $0.99 item from Costco as my lifesaver whenever I travel far.

As an almost four-decade member, I thank Costco for carrying essential items that ease my mind when I travel far.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1M-w4nwN1xkOcmy-BSgfkc7fFIVtXzp30_QEgx55YOGk/edit?usp=drivesdk

Guys, maybe i'm being too paranoid , or perhaps sounding offensive, but this is my personal experience. I was born and raised in a rural, third-world country but I have lived here for nearly five decades, so my perspective may have become biased. Forgive me!

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Wishing you all a blessed and reflective Good Friday!

Today is a day to remember that even in the darkest moments, there is hope. The sacrifice made on this day is a testament to the boundless love and grace that can transform our lives. Let us carry this hope with us knowing that every challenge we face can lead to a brighter tomorrow.

All you need today is love and a Palmier!

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We arrived at the port of call in Puntarenas and spent a day exploring Costa Rica. Our journey took us two hours through several small towns on the way to San Luis National Park in San Ramón, a tropical cloud forest.

Someone mentioned that Costa Rica is the “Switzerland of Central America.” While I don’t know much about either country, the comparison likely comes from their political neutrality and natural beauty. Costa Rica has maintained a long-standing policy of neutrality and famously abolished its military in 1949. Like Switzerland, it is known for its stunning landscapes - Switzerland with its Alps and Costa Rica with its lush rainforests and volcanoes. Additionally, Costa Rica enjoys one of the highest standards of living in Latin America, much like Switzerland does in Europe. In recent years, its political stability and natural beauty have attracted significant foreign investment and tourism.

The bull we see on the way back in Costa Rica, i snapped the best photo if you look closely, seemed symbolic - perhaps a reflection of the country charging forward into a prosperous future - a bull future ahead.

We spent two hours wandering through the cloud forest. People often describe the experience as “walking in the clouds,” but during our visit, there was no mist - just breathtaking natural beauty. It was here that I overcame my fear of heights, crossing a series of suspension bridges high above the forest floor.

On our way back, we learned that Costa Rica’s tropical rainforests are primarily located on the other side of the country. The region we visited is home to tropical dry forests and cloud forests instead.

One interesting sight along the way was a lone Chinese restaurant, King Wah, with large Chinese characters and many descriptive characters around it the name displayed on its front. It made me wonder - do the locals understand what the signs say, or is there a significant Chinese community settled in the area?

Whatever the case, one thing is certain—the hot and humid weather here is nothing like Switzerland!

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Today is a big day in America with the Eagles facing off against the Chiefs. This is America's sport, and no matter which team wins, it’s a victory for the nation - freedom and strength. However, when we idolize a certain player, team, or organization, we often become biased against the opposing side.

I haven't followed sports for a while, but yesterday, I saw a social media post that mentioned the bull doesn't seem to like the Eagles and that person was rooting for the Chiefs. I found it amusing and decided to root for the Eagles today.

In my view, when the Eagles soar high, it's a good omen for the bull. Strong wings above often signal strength below. So, fly high and rise strong, National Birds!

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Today, I walked over 16,000 steps, most of them with Cindy along the trail by the lake. We ventured much deeper into the trail than usual, marveling at the birds resting on the floating blocks in the lake. The scene was already stunning, but it became even more beautiful when wild turkeys crossed our path, seemingly returning from a long holiday with their families.

Our walk took a turn when we crossed the overpass. The sun was shining brightly, but as we entered the shaded trail covered by trees and lined with bushes, the temperature dropped significantly. This sudden change brought back memories of my first failed attempt to leave Vietnam.

In 1978, my cousin organized an escape, and my youngest brother Paul and I were part of the plan. The operation was chaotic and unorganized, involving many people. My duty was to lead a team of twelve, recruited by my cousin, walked to hide in the brush in the dried wetland - I had scouted the area two days prior to ensure its feasibility.

A few hours before dawn, we walked about seven miles from our house in Bac Lieu along the muddy paved path alongside but behind the main road, dressed as locals pretending to chop wood. We hid in the brush for an entire day, waiting for dusk and the signal from a small riverboat to pick us up. When the signal came, we emerged and boarded the small boat, but two larger groups, including the very young and the elderly, also arrived. The small boat couldn't accommodate everyone, so six of us, all young, jumped off to make room and wait for it to come back.

We stayed by the river with three barrels of oil, which we were tasked with protecting and bringing them along when the boat returned. Unfortunately, the boat never came back, possibly due to the retreating ocean water or fear of being caught. My youngest brother, Paul, left with the first group. As dawn approached, we had no choice but to walk back home, feeling a mix of emotions, angry, sad, and fear.

Today’s eerie and endless brush reminded me of that time. The difference is that today, I walked for pleasure and health. Back then, I walked into the unknown, unprepared and scared. I felt sadness for leaving my parents and siblings behind. Mixed emotions of hope for a better future, like my father's journey at fifteen, filled my thoughts. I was scared of the unknown danger, but also grateful for the opportunity to start anew and hopefully to support my family.

Today’s walk was a reminder of the contrasting experiences and emotions that shape our lives.

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Our prayers are with the victims of the firestorms (LA,) snowstorms (SE,) earthquake (SF-BA), and bird flu . In one way or another, nearly all of us have been affected by these natural disasters. In God, we pray and we trust!

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Happy New Year! Last year feels like it was just yesterday. As we journey through life, we add another year to our experiences, but we don’t grow old. As Emily Dickinson said it well, “We turn not older with years, but newer every day.”

Enjoy the moment!

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Yesterday, families across Asia celebrated Winter Solstice, and today, many people of Chinese descent outside of China (my family is one of many) are gathering with their loved ones to do the same. I had completely forgotten about the occasion - until my brother Binh surprised me with his homemade giant boba - Tangyuan (汤圆) or in Vietnamese (chè xôi nước)!

In Chinese tradition, glutinous rice balls, known as Tangyuan, are a must-have for the Winter Solstice. They’re soft, sweet, and strikingly similar to giant boba. More than just a treat, Tangyuan symbolizes family reunion and harmony - a perfect way to honor this special day.

Happy Winter Solstice! This celebration is also a joyful reminder that Lunar New Year is just around the corner. And what makes it even more exciting? It’s the Year of the Serpent (snake - a good snake on a 8 years KS whiskey.) it should be a prosperous year for mankind.

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Halloween is two days away, thanksgiving is coming up in 30 days and then Christmas. This story I posted two years ago about self-reliance and hard work is worth being to.d again as a season of sharing.

God Only Gives One Shoe: A Lesson in Resilience and Self-Reliance

Whether true or fictional, the story of “God only gives one shoe” beautifully illustrates resilience, gratitude, and the importance of self-reliance. It’s a story of a young boy’s journey from hardship to self-fulfillment, and the lesson it imparts resonates deeply, especially in the world of entrepreneurship, where initial ideas or opportunities may only be the first “shoe.” Achieving success often requires determination and hard work to secure the other.

This story is motivational in its essence, embodying a principle found in an old saying: “God is fair. He does not give everything to anyone, and he does not take anything away from anyone either.” Years ago, this story was posted on social media in Vietnamese, inspiring readers with a universal message of perseverance. Here is the tale

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fI5WHe61r-boyAd-Pom_SPQj3GN5PBo5HePaYxbKpZc/edit

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Absolutely emotional! Highly respect!!!

Dr. Bryant Lin’s experience with cancer, despite his role as a clinical researcher at Stanford, is a profound reminder of life’s unpredictability. His illness could be seen as a “rude awakening,” a shift in perspective, and a testament to our shared humanity. Terminal illness can strike anyone at anytime, regardless of age, gender, race, or ~ even in Dr. Lin’s case ~ efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle by avoiding smoking.

Using his personal journey to educate others openly, Dr. Lin exemplifies true heroism. His commitment to raising awareness about lung cancer, despite his challenges, reveals his courage and compassion. His shift from clinical research to personal experience has deepened his perspective, bridging the gap between science and the human experience. Through his openness, he offers invaluable insights, fosters hope, and earns the admiration of many. His resilience and empathy inspire profound respect. He is my hero!

https://scopeblog.stanford.edu/2024/10/16/never-smoker-lung-cancer-class-bryant-lin/

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My recent New York City Trip.

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Is it autumn yet?

Alex, at a nearby Costco, has been greeting me for a few weeks now. I was taken aback the first time I walked in, when he greeted me. While his tone can sometimes be intimidating, it's usually quite fun. Even though fall hasn't arrived yet, Alex reminded me that when it's July at Costco, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas all seem to come simultaneously.

Since then, I've returned a few times, and sure enough, the pumpkins, nutcracker, and reindeer have joined Alex in welcoming shoppers. There's a sense of excitement, especially during the holiday or weekend days, as families with small kids pour through the doors to take photos and shop.

Last weekend, our small town hosted a street fair. I walked along the long, crowded street and eventually stopped by a Safeway. Most of the Overjoyed baked goods, especially the pumpkin Madeleines, which were in high demand, were already gone. I managed to pick up one package to enjoy with my morning coffee, and they tasted fabulous.

On Labor Day, a day after the street fair, I took another walk and visited Trader Joe's and Safeway. Although the street was somewhat empty this time, both stores were bustling with activity.

The season of spooky Halloween, Thanksgiving gatherings, and joyful Christmas is fast approaching, and they are coming fast at once.

As I sit quietly this morning, sipping my coffee and enjoying a pumpkin Madeleine, I reflect on how time seems to move both slowly and quickly, depending on our mood. I hope we all feel good seeing Alex's greetings and make the most of our time.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JrxO1hN7A1HVnLFyxaj-Gmg72Jcvg9o3zGtBrVE9deI/edit

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When I first set out to create products for Costco, Safeway, Starbucks, and other national chain stores, someone advised me to walk through Costco's aisles, Starbucks' bakery case and Trader Joe's to get product inspiration. These places became my sources of inspiration for new and exciting sweet creations. That was about two decades ago; I've continued this practice ever since.

In the early 2000s, Costco began testing some of our products. Safeway soon followed, and Starbucks introduced some of our new bite-sized items. We were the first to create those "bites" that became popular. During that time, Starbucks focused heavily on product quality, taking a page from Costco's playbook. Like Costco, Starbucks centralized certain products but also decentralized many, allowing zone managers to work with regional suppliers, local family-owned businesses, and communities to serve their customers with a focus on quality. Our sales soared with them, and during that time, their stores became a "third place" for many customers ~ a space beyond home and office to relax or work.

However, when the financial crisis hit between 2008 and 2010, Starbucks relied more on centralized data and analysis than on feedback from their regional managers. They consolidated operations, let go of the zone managers, and stopped working with regional suppliers, especially minority-owned ones. This shift hurt us, forcing us to sell and consolidate our food service division.

Earlier this week, I revisited those old inspirations by walking with a friend through various store aisles and a few Starbucks locations. We shared a Safeway sandwich and a pack of Starbucks Madeleines and enjoyed a Starbucks café latte. The Starbucks Madeleine stood out to me, as it shares characteristics with our products ~ slightly caramelized and firm on the outside, a bit crispy at the edges, and soft inside. The most exciting aisles for inspiration are always inside Costco warehouses. It's amazing to see daily staples transform, discover new and unusual items, and even find nostalgic products from my childhood. That day, I walked over 12,000 steps, and I think Costco's aisles were responsible for more than half of them.

On that same day, I received notifications from TrendHunter and Supermarket Perimeter about our release of the Pumpkin Spice Madeleine. I stopped by the bakery a day later, and the supervisor offered me some to take home, asking me to be a taster. It felt appropriate, as I'd been feeling a bit mellow. Paired with my usual café latte, the Pumpkin Spice Madeleine was fabulous.

https://www.supermarketperimeter.com/articles/11591-sugar-bowl-bakery-launches-pumpkin-spice-madeleines-at-costco

Trend Hunter

https://storage.pardot.com/787783/1722024873CHWR2YhK/2025_Trend_Report.pdf

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Xr8260GAoprkkB9nMk05gjwpCCu-fA8cSUC0Y2MRK90/edit

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Going through the years of COVID was difficult, and now the noise of blaming is everywhere. During the last four years, I sipped wine, watched YouTube streams, listened to music and podcasts, and walked outdoors more than I had in the previous 45 years, just to soothe my soul and ease my head.

I happened to read an e-newsletter recently from a friend that featured a song by Stealers Wheel and found myself liking it a lot. It's perfect to read its content and listen to it whenever I'm alone, offering a comforting escape from the chaos around me.

I hope you like it too.

https://youtu.be/ofs_GyQXJ9k?si=7F3knPA_B2TQs_6d

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work hard.stay humble.be kind!

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Given the noise and controversy often associated with politics, I've tried to distance myself and not pay much attention to it.

Therefore, this is not an endorsement or promotion of any party, candidate, or policy.

Several people encouraged me to watch the movie and read the book by J.D. Vance due to his background of hardship similar to mine. It's a fascinating story of a young boy growing up against all odds, chasing the American dream without even knowing what it was.

People used to say that when America catches a cold, the world sneezes. This sentiment was evident when, on the first day J.D. Vance was chosen as a political running mate, his book "Hillbilly Elegy" was translated into Chinese and circulated in Asia. It shows how closely the world is paying attention to us.

We don't know what the future holds, but aside from politics, J.D. Vance's book "Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis" is worth reading, and the movie on Netflix is worth watching. I'm not trying to promote politics here. Since my friends and various news sources have highlighted the book and movie, I felt compelled to share. The story depicts a young man who faced struggles simply because he was born in a place and time that was not ideal for realizing the American dream, similar to my life experiences. However, he went on to serve his country, received an excellent education, married someone outside of his race, and had a female mentor outside of his race ~ if this isn't an American story, what is?

J.D. Vance seems to be an open-minded individual. He calls for greater empathy and understanding of the struggles faced by working-class Americans and advocates for both personal responsibility and systemic changes to address these issues. Let's hope his story can make a difference, bring people together, create harmony among all Americans, and foster empathy for Americans' struggles everywhere.

Let's pray for God to bless America and bring harmony to the world.

https://youtu.be/Mhgz-03M-7w?si=4BRrW039rhtlYdvk

https://youtu.be/iEy-xTbcr2A?si=g6o4xJcHX9chz91a

https://youtu.be/FxseR2CdxK8?si=JR0w7IC5wJEF1J6N

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What a hot day in the Bay Area. Promise to be a fantastic day for the nation’s birthday to get together for the Fourth of July BBQ celebration. As we celebrate the Fourth of July tomorrow, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to this incredible nation I called home. Thank you for your boundless love, sacrifices, and unwavering support.

Here’s my sincere tribute to America on her birthday.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1QmACfRMnGXrH2MlUydANNZLphNJeXim8HQ1UcU6w80Q/edit