Tsai Family of Damascus

Megan's Harp Recital

2012-01-26T19:00:00.000-05:00

On a rainy Thursday evening, we drove to Eldersburg to attend Megan's harp recital. Megan played a flawless 60 second piece of the Alphabet Song. There were more than ten students, including some adults performing that evening. The refreshments were very delicious. Good job, Megan, on your first recital.

Happy Holidays 2011

2011-12-18T10:47:00.000-05:00

Dearest family and friends,

At the end of another wonderful year, we once again celebrate our many blessings. Our two oldest children have successfully completed their full-time missionary service. Another child graduated from high school. Li-Fang and Joshua drove to BYU, and the family stayed one month in Utah. In February, we endured one major snowstorm, but we were surprised with a rare early Maryland snowstorm in October. And just for fun, we managed to sneak away to Ocean City during Spring Break.

We offer our individual perspectives and thoughts on our lives during 2011:

	Each semester, I continue to teach a night class at Montgomery College, but this year two milestones were passed. First, I received my 15 year adjunct teaching certificate. Second, the brand new Science Center at the college was completed. So now I have an office that I share with another adjunct professor. This summer, I was pleasantly surprised to meet my old college pal, Paul, in the home of another old college friend, Nelson. It was great to talk about old times and to see other families grow. I am most grateful for a wonderful wife and equally wonderful children. And I am lucky to be living at a very time, when technology is growing, and the gospel is rolling forth.
	I am learning the harp with Megan, but she is getting ahead of me. The harp teacher said that she is very talented. Looking back at the 10 years of teaching piano, it really helped me (and forced me) to learn to be a better piano player and a teacher. I love it. I also just received a new calling as the Relief Society President. I do not know what life will be like in the near future. Wish you the best of the year! Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!
	It's interesting to look back at this year: coming home from my mission, working at home for the summer, and then jumping into an internship (teaching 3rd grade). At times it feels like the post mission life is harder and I want to go back to the mission, but I realize that the mission has prepared me for my real mission. Having my own classroom has taught me a lot as well, but I know I still have much to learn. I see that life is all about learning and progressing and I'm grateful for all these experiences this year that have taught me these valuable lessons.
	I spent the majority of this past year serving as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Melbourne, Australia. Some personal achievements over the course of this year include lots of learning: learning how to study and how to serve, how to speak a little Mandarin Chinese and how to read a lot less, how to cook (kind of) and how to eat (excessively), how to love others (still in process) and how to be patient with myself. Returning home has been a big change, leaving just enough time to readjust before heading out to Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, in time for the Winter Semester of 2012. Wish everyone a Merry Christmas. 祝大家圣诞节快乐!
	This past year for me can be summarized by my last semester of high school, summer job, and first semester of college. Looking back at senior year, all of the rehearsals, shows, college auditions, graduation and saying goodbye, it was quite busy but I loved it. This summer consisted of my working at NIST in helping organize database information and developing a user interface for it. Then Melinda, Megan, Mom, and I finally drove out here to Provo, where I was introduced to BYU campus, the marching band, college work. I love the people here and the education, but there is a lot of work! I can't wait to reunite with everyone back home, but even if we can't reunite I still want to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
	This year has been really great. My favorite part of 2011 was probably the time we spent in Utah during the summer. Utah was better than I remembered--I could actually walk to places by myself and the overall environment at BYU was very uplifting. I love the mountains and people there! Since this school year's started, I've missed my siblings and friends who are out at college, but to compensate for that, Jonathan returned home from his mission, and has been a wonderful chauffeur for me! I'm finally a senior! I'm doing an internship at NIST this year to help me learn more about the work that goes on in the "real world". It's been really educational and interesting for me to study and research just like real scientists! I still continue to play the flute in the school band, though not as much as I would like. I instead dedicate most of my time towards dancing. I'm dancing in Nutcracker again, for the second time at the American Dance Institute, and so far it's been an amazing experience. Performing is just so fun! I honestly can't wait for this year to be over--there are so many things that I am anticipating in the upcoming year! I will, however, enjoy my Christmas and New Year's break very much nonetheless, and wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!
	This year, Melinda and I joined the Jinhua Chorus. We practice and learn how to sing all sorts of songs every Friday evening. I also began the fifth grade this fall, and I cannot wait to graduate from elementary school. For my first period in school, I ride the bus to Baker Middle School to attend the Math 7 Class.

We hope you also have had a wonderful fulfilling year and wish that the next year may bring even more happiness and peace to you and your family.

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year!

The Tsai family,
Ben & Li-Fang, Jessica, Jonathan, Joshua, Melinda, & Megan

親愛的家人和朋友：
又是滿盈豐收、祝福橫溢的一年! 家中兩個最大的孩子完成了他們的全職傳道服務。老大已回BYU繼續他最後一年的大學生涯，老二等待著過完新年也要回BYU繼續他的大二，老三開始大學新鮮人的生活，老四進入高中最後一年，老么雖是小學最後一年，也已每日搭校車到中學上數學課然後再由校車接送回小學與同年級同學上其他課程。

家中平安和諧，生活幸福快樂，我們努力工作，孩子盡心學習。在神的保守看護下安心的生活，世上有比這個更值得去爭取的嗎?“任何成功都不能彌補家庭的失敗”是我們的座右銘。 “家可以成為人間天堂”是我們努力的方向，因為我們深信“家庭是永恆的”!

	我仍繼續工作於聯邦政府並兼職任教於蒙哥馬利學院夜間班。今年，我領到教職15年教學證書。今年夏天，我意外驚喜的會見了大學的老學友，保羅和納爾遜，長聊敘舊，渡過一個美好的下午。我最感激的是有一個美好的妻子和出眾的孩子。我很幸運能生活在科技發達和豐滿福音的時期。
	我跟著致涵學習豎琴，致涵琴藝進步神速。豎琴老師說致涵很有才華。回顧10年鋼琴教學，自己的收穫和學習不比學生少。我喜愛教學。音樂是天國的語言、治癒心靈的良藥。十二月以聖誕為主題的音樂崇拜聖餐聚會，我們已感受到了”正義者的歌唱”是對神的祈禱。衷心祝福您----闔家平安、快樂!
	有趣的回顧這一年：傳道返鄉、暑期打工、緊接著到一個實習課（教小學三年級）。有時覺得好像傳教後的生活比傳教時更難，很想再回去傳教，但我知道，傳教已準備我去面對我今生真正使命和任務。擁有自己的教室我也學習了許多事，我知道我仍有許多要學習的。我知道生活就是不斷的學習和進步，我感謝所有這些經驗。
	過去的一年我大部分的時間是在澳大利亞墨爾本為耶穌基督後期聖徒教會的傳教士。傳道生活的一些個人成就，包括：知道如何有效的學習和為人服務、如何講漢語和閱讀中文、如何做飯（還能吃）、如何快速解決一餐、如何愛別人（仍在進步中）、還有如何對自己有耐心。回國是一個很大的變化，所以離返回猶他州楊百翰大學的時間僅足夠調整和適應這些改變。祝大家聖誕快樂。
	過去的一年對我來說真是忙碌極了，概括高中最後一學期的學業及所有排練和演出、大學術科考試、畢業告別、暑期在聯邦政府國家標準局打工、適應大學新生活。回顧起來雖然很忙，但我很喜歡。今夏，我和致慧、致涵、還有媽媽，一路從馬州開四天的車到猶他楊百翰大學。接受新生訓練、認識校園、步操樂隊集訓，很忙，很辛苦。不過我很喜歡這裏很友善人和學校的教育系統。期待假期回家團圓。祝聖誕快樂，新年快樂！
	今年過得太滿意了!我最喜歡的一件事情就是今年夏天開車去猶他州。猶他州比我想像的還要好─我可以走路就到我要去的地方，楊百翰大學〈BYU〉給我的感覺非常棒，我喜歡那邊的山和那邊的人。自從開學後，我總是想念去BYU上大學的兄姐和朋友，不過自從致琦傳教回來後，那失落感就消失了。致琦也時常成為我的私人司機！這是我高中的最後一年。我早上上學，下午在聯邦政府實習。實習幫助我眼界增長，融合教科書與現實的實際經驗，這真是一個有教育性質的方式，並且能與科學家一起做研究真的很有意思。每天實習後就到芭蕾舞校去練舞。雖然沒有像自己想要的那樣能有多一些時間吹笛子，至少在學校的樂隊也多少有機會練習一下。
	今年，我和姊姊致慧參加了菁華兒童合唱團。每星期五晚上我們學習唱各種不同語言的歌。今年秋天我開始上五年級。我每天乘坐校車先到貝克中學上一堂7級數學，然後校車會專門接送我們五位小學生回我們的學校。

祝你也有一個美好而充實的一年!也祝你和你的家人得到更多的幸福和平安!

聖誕快樂!新年快樂！

蔡家庭

格文、麗芳、致潔、致琦、致賢、致慧、致涵

Thanksgiving celebration

2011-11-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

At noon on Thanksgiving Day, we shared our turkey feast with several of our friends. We spent the whole morning preparing. After they left, the full-time missionaries came over for dinner. We played a fun game of Catch Phrase with them.

October Snow in Maryland!

2011-10-29T11:35:00.000-04:00

The first snowfall of this winter came early on October 29. It was the earliest snow in Maryland for many years. Very little snow fell, but it sure cause a lot of excitement for a short period of time.

Return of Elder Tsai

2011-10-05T19:00:00.000-04:00

On October 5, Jonathan returned home after serving two years in the Australia Melbourne Chinese Speaking Mission. We were so excited to meet him that we canceled all of our prior engagements that night, so that we could pick him up at the airport. Dinner was happily eaten in the car on the way to the home of President Harrison, where he was finally released by the same person who set him apart him as a full-time missionary two years ago. Although it was a difficult transition to accept for the diligent missionary, all good things must come to an end. On the other hand, after one door is closed, God opens another door. The new prospects are ahead for Jonathan.

The following Sunday, Jonathan reported on his mission to the stake council in front of the stake presidency. That afternoon, after church services, a branch homecoming fireside was held in his honor. At 4pm, members came into the cultural hall, enjoyed some crackers and cheese, talked with him, and enjoyed a slideshow of photos from his missionary experience. Our branch mission leader, Peng Lin, conducted the missionary fireside. After we as his parents said a few words, President Shen made some remarks and presented Jonathan with a plaque for his mission. Then Jonathan shared thoughts about his mission with everyone. After a closing hymn and prayer, the fireside was adjourned. The branch provided a beautiful cake to celebrate his return.

Looking at Jonathan, one would not notice anything different from before. In fact, he kept wearing the same missionary outfit for a few days. His demeanor and disposition are about the same as before. His speech and actions appear to the same Jonathan before his mission. But a closer inspection will reveal that Jonathan indeed has changed on the inside where it really counts. His knowledge of the gospel and understanding of life and other people have improved significantly. Jonathan's return resembles that of the sons of Mosiah. "What added more to his joy, they were still his brethren in the Lord; yea, and they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the word of God. But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God." (Alma 17:2-3)

Well done, and welcome come back, Jonathan!

Utah Trip

2011-08-25T11:34:00.000-04:00

During our visit to Utah, we met a lot of old and new friends. We visited the family of a missionary who served in Taiwan in Hsinying. They live in Jordan. We were able to go to church with them.

We had the honor of helping Jessica with her classroom before her school year.

A highlight of our trip was to reunite with branch alumni in the home of Tyler and Annie Thorsted.

Finally, we had a wonderful opportunity to visit my college buddy, Nelson. He surprised me by inviting another of our freshman ward buddies, Paul, and his family. Here is the three of us.

And here we are with our wives.

And here we are with most of our children.

Melinda's Award Night

2011-06-07T19:00:00.002-04:00

We attended Melinda’s Award’s Night, wherein she received the Straight A’s Award and the coveted Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Math and Science Award.

Graduation Barbecue

2011-06-04T15:00:00.008-04:00

To celebrate the graduation of Joshua and 4 of his friends this year, we held our graduation barbecue tonight. We prepared and barbecued marinated chicken legs. Simon came with his brother, Tony. Ada drove all of her siblings here. Alexis took Michelle and her mom. Pearl came with her dad. The whole Zhao family came. After dinner, we held a FHE for the seniors. We played games (unique activities and school trivia emceed by Tony), talked about Who Am I?, and heard testimonials and advice from parents. Congratulations, seniors!

Joshua's High School Graduation

2011-06-02T10:00:00.011-04:00

At the culmination of a distinguished secondary education, Joshua marched with his colleagues during the Damascus High School Commencement. Marked with various tassels on his hood, Joshua accepted his diploma from Principal Domergue. We, his family, willingly sat in the sun on the football bleachers to witness this climactic ceremony. After the ceremony, the family took him to Guapo's for a fine feast. Congratulations, Joshua, on a job well done.

Joshua Senior Awards Night

2011-05-18T19:00:00.008-04:00

At Joshua's Senior Award Night, he collected six awards.

ADI Performance of Sleeping Beauty

2011-05-14T19:00:00.004-04:00

Can you guess what role Melinda played in this ballet?

Final Band Concert

2011-05-09T19:00:00.002-04:00

Joshua's Band Concert

ASCYO Concerts Galore

2011-05-03T19:00:00.003-04:00

Amid a tremendous load of AP tests, school projects, and getting ready for graduation, Joshua still seemed to be able to fit in the rehearsals for the ASCYO and to attend each of the three concerts in the ASCYO Spring 2011 Concerts Series.

The first and most important concert for Joshua was situated in the historic Weinberg Center for the Arts in downtown Frederick on Tuesday, May 3, at 7:00pm. Our whole family turned out for this wonderful event, in which Joshua performed his senior solo from the "Concertino for Clarinet, Op. 26 Allegro" by Carl Maria von Weber. With mentoring from his clarinet teacher, Mr. Robert Fogleman, he played an outstanding 9-minute solo. Check out the advertisement.

Weinberg Center for the Arts

Tuesday, May 3, 2011, 7:00 pm
Weinberg Center for the Arts
20 West Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 21701
(Youth Orchestra performing)

Soloists:
Joshua Boulden - Bass Clarinet
Steven Harris - Violin
Eric Holmstead - Violin
Kenny Hunsley - Trombone
Brian Simon - Clarinet
John Singleton - Violin
Joshua Tsai - Clarinet
Phoebe Tsoi - Flute
Lauren Tucker - Violin

The second concert took place at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre at the Rockville Civic Center Park on Friday, May 6, at 7:30pm. At this concert, Joshua did double duty and played with the Chamber Orchestra.

The third and final concert took place at the Lutheran Church of St. Andrew on Tuesday, May 10, at 7:00pm.

Ocean City Express

2011-04-19T17:45:00.012-04:00

In order to escape the pressures of daily life, we undertook a day excursion to Ocean City. It didn't hurt that Joshua obtained more driving practice. Although it was very windy, we still enjoyed our walk on the beach, carving our namesake in the sand, riding the 6-person bicycle, and cruising the go carts. We climaxed our trip with Bugaboo cuisine.

Snowstorm

2011-01-27T16:21:00.005-05:00

Our only major snowstorm of 2011 left our yard and surroundings white. Shoveling snow is always fun.

90th Birthday Celebration for Sid Foulger

2011-01-09T17:00:00.015-05:00

It is a rare occasion to be able to participate in the birthday celebration of a brand new nonagenarian. But that's exactly what occurred on a frigid winter evening after church. We had gathered together at the home of our beloved friend, Sid Foulger, who would soon turn 90 later this week. At around 5pm, as people were arriving, Sidney Tan first favored the audience with the “Entertainer” on the grand piano. Then a quartet (Megan Tsai on the harp, Emerald on the electronic piano, Melinda on the flute, and Joshua on the clarinet) played “Danny Boy,” one of Brother Foulger’s favorite songs. After a blessing on the food by Brother Sy Tan, everyone had an opportunity to eat the delicious food, which included noodles and spicy noodles, croissant hot dogs, sub sandwiches, Chinese soup, fish, and almond tofu cocktail. We gathered back in the living room with the fire glowing with warmth in the hearth. Sister Florence Tung, Brother Da Zhao, Sister Peifang Chen Zhong, and Sister Betty Azucena shared their personal words of gratitude and love and admiration for Brother Foulger. At Sister Tung’s invitation, Brother Foulger stood up to sing a cheer song from one of his alma maters. Elder Kerby then sang a stirring rendition of “Near, My God to Thee,” accompanied by Joshua Tsai. After Benjamin Tsai read a letter for Brother Foulger sent by Wei, Eva, Sydney, and Mason Chuang, he presented the letter to Brother Foulger and also thanked Brother Foulger for his wonderful example and service. Sister Ann Yu then sang “How Great Thou Art.” Brother Foulger shared with us his testimony and thoughts about serving in the branch. In conclusion, we sang “Love One Another,” one of Brother Foulger's favorite hymns. Brother Frank Chow pronounced the benediction and blessing on the dessert. Immediately afterwards, as everything began singing "Happy Birthday," they rolled out the beautiful birthday cake made by Sister Azucena’s sister.

It has been a great honor to have been associated with Brother Foulger, a man of great accomplishments and a great heart. His amazing deeds, told and untold, have made a great impression upon all of us. His resume includes, just to name a few things, the building of the Washington DC Temple, serving as the second branch president of the Montgomery Chinese Branch, and building a great posterity of 48 grandchildren and over 75 great-grandchildren and counting. But more than these wonderful great acts, the small instances of helping countless individuals and families in need was a constant hallmark of his great love and charity towards all. He taught through word and deed. We love him for the great legacy he has left for his family and his friends. Thank you, Brother Foulger, and Happy 90th Birthday!

Festival of Lights

2010-12-31T20:00:00.011-05:00

On the very last day of the year, we took occasion to celebrate Melinda's sweet 16th with a simple dinner at the Wok Express. Afterwards, we took a nice drive to the Washington DC Temple Visitor Center to enjoy the over 500,000 Christmas lights. Inside the Visitor Center, we viewed the International Christmas trees and nativity creches. After standing in a long line, we were able to watch the 8pm showing of the Fairfax Chinese Dance Troupe. When we finished, we met some of our Chinese Branch friends upstairs, conversed for a long while, and took pictures before going home. Then we went home to watch the Apple fall in Times Square. It was a nice way to end the year. Happy new year!

Happy Holidays

2010-12-18T20:25:00.000-05:00

Family and friends,

As we draw close to another year and decade, we pause to ponder our many blessings of 2010. The short but busy Spring Break trip to Taiwan gave us an exciting journey to enjoy some of the beauties of Taiwan, visit relatives and friends, and to enjoy the delicious cuisine. This year, we were honored to be able to visit the West Wing of the White House, and we braved the Eastern Shore wilderness where we witnessed the wild ponies of Assateague. Our two oldest children have both finished more than half of their meaningful missionary service. We also made quick excursions to Hershey Park and Williamsburg.

Individually, here are our thoughts and summary for this year:

	I have kept busy this year with teaching a night class at Montgomery College each semester and helping with rides to the various school and extracurricular activities The biggest change this year for me personally was the release from serving as branch president at church for the last ten years. It was the most challenging yet most rewarding thing I have done in my life. After adjusting to the change, I have learned to savor the moment for what it is worth (be grateful for everything in life) and do my best to make each moment count (help others in small ways). I am grateful for a wonderful family and for being alive at this wonderful time.
	I am so grateful for being able to keep in touch with my very precious old friends in Taiwan and in the US. My happiest moments are when I receive letters from our children. They show their caring to the people they meet, their love to families, and their trust to God. I quote: “I have No Greater Joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” (3 John 1:4) Anything that belongs to us could be all taken away somehow, except for one thing, our “will,” unless we give it up. To be able to unite us in harmony, we need to have the same goal, that requires our “willingness” to it. Only by the gospel of Jesus Christ, there is no other way that human intelligent could make us all united in heart. I am grateful for the guidance of our Heavenly Father through practice of the gospel principles in our lives that our family may be united in God’s will. Now I can feel the joy of “All things prosper when harmony is at home.” Going on a mission helps our children grow so fast in spirituality. Another quote: “Choose you this day whom ye will serve…, but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15) The blessing of a full joy of heart is greater than anything else on earth.
	2010 has been the best year of my life so far. Serving a mission is such a blessing for me. This year I've served in Littleton (Coalmine Ward), downtown Capitol Hill Denver, and Centennial/Aurora (Piney Creek Ward). I love each area, the people I serve, and the experiences I've had, from walking and talking up and down Colfax Avenue, to seeing the Spirit work within people. I've learned a lot about myself and the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that it is true- that Jesus Christ is our Savior and beckons us all to come unto Him and as we do, we are filled and blessed.
	Just in case someone does not currently know, I have been serving in the Australia Melbourne Mission (previously in the Australia Melbourne West Mission) for the past year in the Mandarin Chinese-speaking program. I've been learning and learning and learning some more; talking to everyone and teaching the gospel and speaking Chinese has been a great experience. I have had the chance to serve in several areas with several companions, learning and learning from every single one (area and companion). I don't really know what else to say. I've had a lot of ups and downs, but in the end, I've learned and felt more of God's love for each of His children and my trust in God has been strengthened immensely.
	This year, I auditioned and/or participated in the All-State Band, the Lion's Band, and the Superintendent Awards performance. I also had the honor of going to the Kennedy Center to receive a certificate of merit. I also performed in the 3 ASCYO spring concerts and in the DHS Spring Concert. I finally received my learner's permit this year. My favorite thing this year was our trip to Taiwan. It was fun meeting up with our friends, the Pascual's, while we were there. Right now, for me and all other seniors, it is college application time!
	Right before the beginning of this year, I turned 15. This may not seem like a very significant year compared to 16, but transitioning from a sophomore to a junior has kept me very busy. During the 2nd half of my sophomore year, I still played the flute in our local orchestra ASCYO, as well as in my school band. I was taking ballet lessons from three different dance studios: The American Dance Institute (ADI), Berrend Dance Center, and the Gaithersburg Casey Community Center. I was taking fairly simple classes at school, thus easily kept my grades up. One highlight of this time period is that I got to see my awesome friend Jelica in Taiwan again! I'm so happy we had the opportunity to go and I can't wait to go back next time! This summer was relaxing, as always, and, as always, I was not necessarily looking forward to this school year. However, I once I finally started, I realized that junior year isn't all that bad after all! I spend the majority of my time focusing on schoolwork and church. I still manage to get very good grades and to take flute lessons to keep my flute playing up as well. I've dedicated most of my extracurricular time to taking ballet lessons five, sometimes six, days a week at ADI, which is an absolutely amazing studio! This is my first year performing the Nutcracker ballet, as a Snow Flake, Spanish, and Flower. I am very excited to be performing this year! It has been very different living without Jessica and Jonathan for over a year now. I know that they've made the right choice in going on a mission, and I know that they're doing what God wants them to. I also know they're having a fabulous time in Colorado and Australia! I can't wait until next year when they both come back!
	This year, I started to take horse back riding lessons at the Potomac Glen Riding School. It has been very fun and exciting learning about horses and to actually ride them. Mom also made a harp for me, and we are both taking harp lessons. My favorite place we visited this year was camping at Assateague National Park. We saw wild horses and deer at our campground! I miss Jessica and Jonathan and can't wait to see them next year when they return.

We hope you also have had a wonderful fulfilling year and wish that the next year may bring even more happiness and peace to you and your family.

Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year to all!

The Tsai family,
Ben & Li-Fang, Jessica, Jonathan, Joshua, Melinda, & Megan

親愛的家人和朋友：

回想我們今年的許多祝福，最讓我們懷念的是趁春假回台灣兩個星期暨興奮又匆忙的旅程。我們有幸看到了阿里山的雲海和日出，美麗極了。更興奮的是能見到多年不見的同學，朋友和親戚。又遊覽了日月潭、九族文化村，可惜沒去成夜市。不過也享受了許多美味佳餚和小吃。也去了高雄的中山大學(西子灣)、拜訪了台南支會和屏東支會，見到了好多老教友。可惜還有好多親戚和朋友無法去看望。

回來後，直奔維基尼亞州威廉斯堡參加致賢和致慧的高中音樂慶典。致賢為學校的合唱團伴奏的優越表現得到裁判的欣賞，在頒獎典禮上竟得了個人才藝出眾獎。除驚喜之外，我們為他好高興。

趁著暑假即將結束之前，我們決定到海洋城去露營，在那裏有野生的馬群，我們目睹自然生態，也享受了一晚的浪濤聲。(還有數不盡的蚊蟲叮咬)

還有一件值得一提的是: 由於格文同事的關係我們今年有機會走訪白宮。

	我還是一樣忙於平日的工作外，並在蒙哥馬利學院兼教晚間一堂課，偶爾幫忙接送孩子參加課外活動。對我個人而言今年最大的改變是卸下了過去十年在教會擔任分會會長的職務，這是最具挑戰性但也是最有意義的召喚。經過短時間的調整和改變後，我學會去抓住並真正的去感激生命中的每一分每一秒（感激生活中的一切），並盡我所能使每一刻更有價值。我很感謝有個美好的家庭。
	我最快樂的時刻之一是收到孩子的信，從字句中流露出對人的關懷、對家人的真情及對神的信任。引用「沒有任何事能比聽到我的孩子走在真理中更讓我喜悅的了」〈約翰三書約1:4〉我們的所有一切都有可能被剝走，只有一樣是誰也取走不了的，那就是我們"意願"。心意要合一就是要建立同樣的目標，就必須有同樣的"意願"。除非藉著耶穌基督的福音，以人類的智能是無法達到”合一”的目標。感謝天父保守我們能藉著遵行福音原則使我們家人的心靈合一。我現在可以體會”家和萬事興”的喜悅。傳教的孩子心靈成長得快。再引用「今日就可以選擇所要事奉的…,至於我和我家，我們必定事奉主。」〈約書亞記24:15〉心中滿足的祝福超過一切。
	到目前為止2010年是我一生中最好的一年。傳教服務對我而言真是個祝福。我服務過 Littleton (Coalmine Ward), downtown Capitol Hill Denver, and Centennial/Aurora (Piney Creek Ward)等地區。我愛每個地區、每個我服務過的人、還有所有在 Colfax Avenue來來回回的與人交談並看到聖靈在人們中所作的工的一切經驗。我從中學習到認識自己和耶穌基督復興的福音。我知道耶穌基督是我們的救主並邀請我們所有的人到祂這裏來，若我們照作就能受到豐滿和祝福──這是真的。
	我目前在澳大利亞墨爾本傳道部服務，在過去一年中以華語傳教。我一直學習、學習、再學習。與人交談、教導福音和學習中文真是個很棒的經驗。我有機會在不同的幾個地區服務和不同的同伴。我從每一個人身上學習(也在每個地區成長) 。不知還要說些甚麼?我有很多的高低潮，不過到最後我總是學到並感覺到更多神對祂所有的孩子的愛，也因此更堅強了我對神的信賴。
	今年，我參與多項樂團──校內的樂隊、合唱團、管弦樂、校外的州樂團、獅子會樂團、聖西斯里亞青年樂團。在聯合高中的音樂慶典上獲得特殊演奏榮譽獎，並由學校推薦在肯尼迪中心(Kennedy Center)接受全國各校精選之音樂才藝獎。我今年最喜歡的是去台灣旅行。我終於得到的學開車的許可證。現在，我和其他所有高四一樣忙著申請大學，入學表格一大堆，時間緊張，還有繁重的功課。不能等趕快畢業。
	年初除夕我剛滿 15，與16歲相比這似乎不是一個非常重要的一年，但高二進入高三的過度期使我非常忙碌。在高二的下半年度我還在聖西斯利亞青年樂團以及學校的樂隊吹長笛。我同時也在三個不同的舞蹈中心學習芭蕾(美國舞蹈協會（ADI）、Berrend舞蹈中心和社區中心蓋瑟斯堡凱西中心)，同時間也能在學校保持良好成績。今年的黃金時間是到台灣再次見到我最好的朋友Jelica！我真高興我們有機會去，也迫不及待地等待下一次再回去！今年夏天跟以往一樣很放鬆，也和以往一樣不希望開學。然而，終究還是來了，還好沒我想像的那麼糟糕!我主要把時間專注在學校和教會。由於我必須花許多時間每天去學芭蕾舞以致今年無法參加任何樂團，只能上長笛的課來保持演奏的水準。到目前為止，我還是能在學校掌握住好成績。ADI(美國舞蹈協會)真是個很棒的舞蹈中心。這是我學舞以來第一次參Nutcracker ballet的演出, 我有三個角色:雪花、西班牙和花。我好幸奮今年的表演! 一年多生活在沒有致潔和致琦的日子很不一樣。我知道他們都做了正確的選擇去傳教，我知道他們在做神要他們做的事。我也知道他們在科羅拉多和澳洲有美好的時光。期待他們兩人明年返鄉。
	今年，我開始在Potomac Glen騎術學校學習騎馬。這是非常有趣和令人興奮的事，不但學習認識馬匹、學習如何與馬交談並了解他們，還能騎馬。媽媽在Kemper弟兄的幫助下做了一座豎琴給我，現在我們一起學豎琴。今年我最喜歡的是到亞薩提格國家公園露營。我們看到野生馬和鹿在我們的宿營地！我很想念致潔和致琦，不能等待他們明年回來。

祝你也有一個美好而充實的一年!也祝你和你的家人得到更多的幸福和平安!

聖誕快樂!新年快樂！

蔡家庭

格文、麗芳、致潔、致琦、致賢、致慧、致涵

Winter Concerts

2010-12-14T19:00:00.000-05:00

Joshua was privileged to participate in the high school Choir Concert on December 13. The very next day, he served as the pianist for the Jazz Concert. On the same night, he played First Clarinet as part of the Band Concert. In conclusion, they played their traditional "The Night Before Christmas"as it was narrated by Mr. Kachadorian.

ASCYO Concerts

2010-12-03T19:00:00.005-05:00

This semester Joshua participated in the ASCYO Concerts on December 3, 4, and 5. The venues were the Weinberg Center in Frederick on December 3, Asbury Methodist Village on December 4, and The Lutheran Church of St. Andrew on December 5. Joshua played in the Wind Ensemble on Sunday, and he played the solo part for the cat in Peter and the Wolf.

Thanksgiving Dinner

2010-11-25T12:00:00.007-05:00

This Thanksgiving, we invited over 20 people to come to our home to celebrate Thanksgiving Dinner. Actually, we started with lunch at noon. After the lunch, we had a small program, including the reading of the Thanksgiving story by Elders Kerby and Lo while the children dressed up as Pilgrims and Indians. We then talked and played and had lots of fun.

Missionary Board

2010-09-18T13:05:00.003-04:00

For the record, here is proof that the branch has a missionary bulletin board, now decorated with news from our two missionaries, who just happened to be our children.

White House West Wing

2010-09-04T14:00:00.007-04:00

Over the Labor Day weekend, we had a unique opportunity, thanks to my colleague at work, to tour the West Wing of the White House. Although the rooms seemed much smaller than on TV, we saw in person the Oval Office, the Rose Garden, and the Press Room. We were allowed to take pictures in the Press Room.

Visit from Wang's

2010-08-20T21:00:00.000-04:00

The Wang family visited us on August 20. We had a fun time at the ice skating rink and ping pong practice hall. We also enjoyed a hot pot meal together.

Camp Assateague

2010-08-19T18:00:00.000-04:00

Our family's first trip to Assateague State Park took place on August 19. We pitched our tent at our campsite G2. At first, the wild horses were grazing there along with a buck, but they went away eventually. The kids went to the beach while we set up the tent. Then we tried to heat up noodles, but the propane stove would not light. So, with so many mosquito bites, we went into the tent and talked. During the night, drops of dew or sea water splashed very infrequently on our faces.

At 5:30am, I awoke and walked to the beach. The scene looked so surreal, like the underground Journey to the Center of the earth, with an orange sun that one could view shining through cloudy skies onto a slightly darkened beach. Later I came back with Megan and then Melinda. We saw dolphins in the distance. We cleaned camp before the 11am deadline. Before going home, the kids rode on their traditional Go Karts and went to the arcade. Then we walked around the Boardwalk and headed home. Thus ended our first camping trip on the Eastern Shore.

Surprise Guest from Taiwan

2010-08-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

An unexpected visitor, an acquaintance of Li-Fang, Chang Lo Shou Feng, from Xinzu, Taiwan, attended our branch meetings on August 15. She came to our home after church. visit us with us.

Fugal Farewell Dinner

2010-08-10T19:00:00.000-04:00

Before the Fugal's moved west, we were lucky to have them over dinner one last time on August 10. Adam and Sophy brought Joanna.

Penne Pasta Picnic

2010-07-26T18:00:00.000-04:00

Josh and I returned from a full day of work at NIST one day (July 26). At the door we were greeted and instructed not to enter in by the front door but to go to the deck. This we did, and to our surprise a simple elegant dinner had been prepared. Megan even prepared a nice menu which featured the main course of Penne Pasta. The weather was perfect, and the food was delectable. What a wonderful evening dinner under the skies!

NIST Day at Hershey Park

2010-07-10T10:00:00.000-04:00

We took advantage of the NIST Day at Hershey Park by bringing the whole family plus Grandma and Uncle Joe and Aunt Tsuifang. The kids had a blast on the rides and in the water park. I even dared to ride with Megan on a couple of the mean kiddie rides (see proof below). Lunch was included in the tickets. We climaxed the evening with a leisurely tour of the famous Hershey Museum.

Fireworks with Rodgers

2010-07-04T18:00:00.000-04:00

Fourth of July fell on a Sunday this year. Coincidentally, the Rodgers family came to visit for a whole week from Ohio. Nick (a former missionary in our branch) & Brittany and their three cute kids (Madisen, Cole, and Ethan) stayed at our home for the week. On Sunday, we all drove up to the Washington DC Temple to enjoy the Visitor Center and the beautiful temple grounds. Then we drove to Rockville to observe the spectacular display of pyrotechnics from the outskirts of Montgomery College.

Group Piano Recital

2010-06-06T18:04:00.006-04:00

On May 25, Li-Fang and Yvonne Spencer held their group piano recital at Woodfield Elementary School. There were a total of 65 performances that evening.

Youth Conference Pilgrimage

2010-05-29T06:10:00.060-04:00

I have been fortunate to have attended a third Youth Conference trip. This time, the stake youth went to Kirtland, Ohio. After congregating at the Potomac chapel beginning at 6:00am on May 29 with a short prayer meeting and breakfast, we rode on three buses all the way to Kirtland. Our branch youth rode on the yellow bus. At a layover in Hiram, Ohio, at a stake center, for about 3 hours, the kids engaged in games of water balloons, Frisbee, and giant soccer. At 4pm, we checked into the Fairfield Inn. After dinner, we proceeded to the Kirtland Temple. Group by group, we toured the awesome Kirtland Temple. While we were waiting to stand in a group photo of the stake youth on the steps of the temple, Da and I saw Jack Shirts, who was coincidentally also visiting the Kirtland Temple but was about to return home. Before the tours, Sister Julie Savage spoke to the youth about keeping journals. We participated in a testimony in the temple. Mark Hendricks introduced the main speaker, Brother Karl Anderson who spoke at length about the temple. In conclusion, we sang “The Spirit of God.” That climax was truly touching.

Back at the hotel in a conference room, pizza was served, and black journals were distributed. Sister Marla Foulger spoke. 11pm was curfew. Da and I took some pizza across the street at midnight to await the arrival of Sister He and Simon. They did arrive, we embraced, and we presented them with our small gifts.

On Sunday morning, the great buffet began at 7:30am for the young men and at 8:30am for the young women. Sister He and Simon joined us. At 9:30am, all of the youth, the chaperones (Da Zhao and Meili Shen), and Sister He congregated in our room, Room 229. After a prayer, I invited each of the youth from oldest to youngest to say a few words on either why they came to Youth Conference or what they have learned so far. In general, they came to Youth Conference to learn about the important revelations and people and to see Kirtland. They learned about the preservation of the temple, peace in the temple, podiums for the priesthood offices, Jesus stood at the podium, angels, strong spirit, God is watching over us and protecting us with power, Church history, no cell phones to distract us, and Joseph Smith was in the Kirtland Temple. Sister He spoke of miracles and the Lord’s purpose for us to be here. We should appreciate Youth Conference. Sister Meili Shen said that being with youth is happiness. Reminisce on memories. Learn church history as background of Gospel and church. There is a connection to church history. Da Zhao said that photos cannot capture the feelings of the spirit. He talked about journals. Kirtland is just a small town, but it is specially ordained.

Our bus first went to the Isaac Morley Farm, where Joseph Smith prophesied that this Gospel shall go into all the world, Joseph and Emma lived here in 1831-1832, Emma had twins here who died, and where Emma adopted the Murdock twins. We learned that all things center on the Savior. (D&C 45:3-5) and to be not weary in well doing. (D&C 64:33) We rode to the Chapin Pond Quarry ten minutes away. Then we went to the Kirtland Visitor Center. Kirtland is not about Joseph Smith. Kirtland is about the Savior and his atonement. At the John Johnson Farm, we took a group photo on the rock. Give all to the Lord. We had an Italian dinner. During the Sacrament Meeting at the chapel, President and Sister Harrison gave a Sacrament talk together, going back and forth. They discussed marriage and the purpose of this life, tribulations and blessings, light and revelation, angels and temples, stripping jealousy, and women’s role in church to support husband and priesthood.

On Monday, we rode on the bus all day back home, only to stop at Breezewood for lunch. We made it back safely to the Potomac Chapel by 4pm. What a wonderful experience this trip was for all who attended it.

Spring Concerts

2010-04-24T20:55:00.010-04:00

This year, the list of concerts and performances seems to have grown longer. Joshua auditioned and/or participated in the All-State Band, the Lion's Band, the Superintendent Awards performance, and in a competition at the Kennedy Center. Melinda and Joshua performed in the 3 ASCYO spring concerts and in the DHS Spring Concert. Melinda performed in the ADI recital. Melinda and Megan performed in the Gaithersburg Ballet recital. Mom coordinated her Group Piano recital.

Dinner at Heaton's

2010-04-18T20:46:00.010-04:00

Robert and Lynda Heaton invited some Chinese friends to their home for dinner on April 18. We were delighted to meet some of our Chinese friends in Virginia.

Wedding Bells for John & Mary Chen

2010-04-14T12:00:00.003-04:00

On April 12, we welcomed to our home Dylan Landeen and his mom, Jennifer, for the wedding of John Chen and Mary Lambert. We were delighted to host the four of them in our home this week. The actual wedding ceremony took place in the Washington DC Temple. John and Mary were married and sealed by President Earl Tingey at noon on Wednesday. Jennifer Landeen, Dylan Landeen, Li-Fang, and Meili Shen were also there. Dylan and I served as witnesses. That evening, we held a reception for John and Mary. We ate hotpot and, of course, the wedding cake. The elders came, along with Andrew & Charlotte Shen, Adam Fugal, and Helen He. Congratulations to John and Mary on their wedding and starting their new family.

Williamsburg

2010-04-08T20:54:00.000-04:00

On April 8, we drove our whole family to Williamsburg for the Band Festival there that weekend. After a good night's rest, at the downtown Williamsburg's Kimball Theater, we watched Joshua accompany three choruses. He did a fabulous job. Later that day, Joshua and Melinda participated in their Band Festival. On Saturday, Joshua and Melinda toured Williamsburg and went to Busch Gardens. That evening at Busch Gardens, they received their school awards. Way to go, Joshua and Melinda.

To Taiwan & Back in a Fortnight

2010-03-24T20:41:00.125-04:00

After more than a decade of absence from the island, our family finally had an opportunity to revisit Taiwan. It was Megan's first trip, but even for our teenagers they had forgotten the previous visit. So with a lot of planning, our trip finally began on March 24.

After a long plane ride, we were greeted by our old friends, the Pascual's. Meeting the Pascual's again was like a reunion with family not seen for many years. Sweet and memorable were our embraces. We only stayed with Pascual's one evening before touring the famous Ali Shan. The trip to Ali Shan was long and tiring. When we arrived there, it was very cold. Luckily the Pascual's had lent us jackets to survive the journey. Despite these challenges, we were able to view the floating clouds at sunset and the beautiful sunrise. The next day, Li-Fang was able to visit her old art teacher and walk onto the campus of her high school. Although many things had changed, she was able to find her old dorms and classrooms. On Sunday, we walked to the Tainan 3rd Ward and attended church there.

On Monday, thanks to Grandma, we took a bus tour of southern Taiwan, including a Buddhist temple, a rice wine factory, an exciting boat ride with oysters and fish, the Tsingtao beer factory, and a Thai village. Then it was good to go back and enjoy a quiet Family Home Evening with Grandpa. The rest of the week was filled with visits and reunions with relatives and friends. We visited with Li-Fang's high school classmate in Hsin Shih, her dad's relatives, her cousin and aunt at the Cafe Grazie Restaurant, he aunt's beach mansion, her coworker in Anping, reunion with several of her classmates, her cousin in a nice restaurant, and her coworker's family at Cheng Kong University.

Then the Pascual family picked us up with their large van. They drove us to Kaohsiung, where we met with Yang Lei and his wife, Ma Tzu Lin, our old friends from Purdue University. They took us to visit the family of Benjamin Chen. Afterwards, Yang Lei treated everyone to dinner at the cafeteria at his university. On Sunday, we went to church at the Pingtung Ward. After church, Li-Fang's classmate, Zhang Li-Ping came to pick us up to go to her home in the country. The home was large in a rural area and had been a pig farm. She fed us bantiao (thick noodles).

The Pascuals drove us to Ri Yue Tang (Sun Moon Lake). The next morning we spent a fun day at the amusement park at Jiu Zu Wenhua Tsun. At the end of day, Li-Fang went to another high school reunion in Taoyuan, while our kids went back to Taipei. On our last day, it was rainy day. Melinda accompanied Jelica to school. We spent the rest of the day in Taipei. Because of the rain and smog, we did not go up the 101. Instead, we enjoyed lunch at a very nice sushi buffet in a department store nearby. The last night we packed and prepared to go home.

We rode a taxi to the airport without saying goodbye to the Pascuals who were still asleep at 6am. At the airport we were surprised by the Pascual family who came all the way to the airport just to say goodbye. We all participated in a long group hug. They accompanied us to the security gate. We bid farewell again.

In less than two weeks, we went up and down one side of the island, visited a dozen cities, saw over 50 friends and relatives, and enjoyed lots and lots of delicious food. So, sit back and enjoy the photos.

Dinner with VA Elders

2010-03-14T20:28:00.059-04:00

On Sunday, March 14, we were privileged to have invited into our home some of the greatest missionaries to serve in Taiwan in the 1970s and 1980s, who live in the Washington DC area. It all started when my wife was looking for the missionaries who served in Hsingying, Taiwan, during her high school years. The two missionaries that she remembered were Elders Cunningham and Heaton. Amazingly she was able to locate these two missionaries through the Kaohsiung Taiwan Mission Alumni web site. We were able to contact Elder Robert Heaton, who is living in Northern Virginia. Both Robert and his wife, Lynda, were able to come to our home Sunday evening.

In addition, we thought it might be fun to also invite other Taiwan return missionaries living in the area. We were lucky to be able to invite all one in night our very good friends and returned missionaries from Taiwan: Tim & Robin Stratford (both are returned missionaries from Taiwan; Tim served as mission president in the Taichung Taiwan Mission; both currently serve as temple workers), Steve Hilton (returned missionary from Taiwan; currently serving as President of the Centreville Virginia Stake) and his wife, and Matt Salmon (returned missionary from Taiwan; currently serving as the branch president of the newly formed Northern Virginia Chinese Branch) and his wife and friend from Inner Mongolia.

We spent time learning about the missions they served and their wonderful experiences. The conversation turned naturally into a discussion about the work of the kingdom and the mission of the church, especially as it relates to the Chinese people. We bid farewell to the Stratfords as they embark on their new adventure in China. Thanks, everyone, for making this evening special and historical.

Snow! Snow! Snow!

2010-02-07T18:48:00.035-05:00

According to reliable sources, the biggest snow storm of the decade in Montgomery County commenced with some snow on February 2 and continuing for over a week. School was canceled for almost 2 weeks. I did not go to work for a whole week, and we had to cancel church two weeks in a row. According to NOAA, record snow falls amounted to over 73" (at Dulles International Airport) for this snow season.

Personally for us, this snow storm resulted in more careful and slow driving, getting stuck on the back roads, Joshua going out with Adam Fugal to help shovel driveways, more bonding time at home with the family, kids playing in the snow, and a lot of shoveling. Half way through the storm, our shovels gave way. It was very difficult to buy shovels during a storm, because they were all out. Luckily, we were able to buy 2 new shovels before the end of the storm. Hopefully, we will not have a storm like this for another decade.

Holiday Wishes

2009-12-09T07:16:00.046-05:00

Family & friends,

Reminiscing through this year's events has reminded us of the bounteous blessings that our family has enjoyed. Here are some of the memorable events for our family this year:

At the beginning of the year, our oldest, Jessica, embarked on an amazing adventure through a Study Abroad experience in New Zealand. In addition to an awesome journey in studying and touring the country, she managed to squeeze in some valuable introspection time to herself far away from the distractions of family and friends.

Meanwhile in March, our youngest, Megan, chose to be baptized soon after she turned eight. Since this was to be the last baptism of our family, we were touched and very grateful that all of our children have entered into this path.

Also, in March, we celebrated Joshua's sweet 16 birthday at Guapo's -- very apropos for the celebrity.

This year we were fortunate to have at least 20 people grace our home with their visits: Cousin Larry and his family, the Chou family, the Theodore family, the Brown family, Brother Yang from Taiwan, and Grandpa and Grandma from California. Each visitor brought us fond memories, new and old.

During the summer, we took advantage of the interest rates and built a family room addition to the back of our home. We love the new look.

One of the greatest blessings in our family has definitely been the decisions of Jessica and Jonathan to choose to serve a full-time mission for the Lord. They worked hard in preparing themselves and now are engaged in the service of their fellow men. Jessica, Sister Tsai, is now serving in the Colorado Denver South Mission. She is loving her mission and working very hard. Jonathan, Elder Tsai, is wrapping up his training in the Missionary Training Center in Utah. He is diligently learning his Chinese so that he can preach the Gospel in the Australia Melbourne West Mission. We are so proud and excited for the both of them and pray for them as they labor to share the Gospel message with others.

We hope you also have had a wonderful fulfilling year and wish that the next year may bring even more happiness and peace to you and your family.

Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year to all!

The Tsai family,

Ben & Li-Fang, Jessica, Jonathan, Joshua, Melinda, & Megan

Taekwondo & Thanksgiving

2009-11-21T19:00:00.001-05:00

Taekwondo

WOW! OOH! AAAAAH! OOH LA LA! Singles learn taekwondo from a taekwondo teacher. One girl and four boys are masters from the taekwondo class. There's a technique, a bad boy, and mostly breaking wood. They concentrate to bring power to break the wood.

By Megan

(We attended the Asian Thanksgiving Dinner on Saturday, November 21, at the Annandale Stake Center. After the dinner, there was a special demonstration of Taekwondo.)

Leaves & Grandmas

2009-11-21T14:00:00.006-05:00

It was cool, comfortable autumn afternoon, one of those rare Saturdays when it was warm enough to work in the yard and when it was not raining. I decided to perform the last rite of autumn by mowing the grass for the last time this year (hopefully). When what to my wondering eyes did appear, not one grandma but two grandmas did suddenly enter the scene with rakes and grass bags and gardening gloves and, yes, a small plastic trash container and a dust pan. Together they raked and gathered for over an hour. The result was 12, count them, 12 large grass bags, chock-full of leaves that had fallen from the three tree in the front yard by the curb. The work was definitely worth the clean cut yard and leave-free yard curb. Now, enjoy the pictures.

A Visitor from Afar

2009-11-20T12:00:00.002-05:00

This past week, we were lucky to have our old friend, Yang Lei, from Taiwan visit us during his stay as a visiting scholar at the University of Missouri at Columbia. After patronizing the Washington DC Temple early in the morning, we drove to the US Capitol for a tour. The one-hour tour was very meaningful because it taught us the importance of the Capitol in the nation's history. The cool thing was that we found the statue of Brigham Young, who represented the state of Utah. Photos were in order.

Halloween in Kentlands

2009-10-31T18:00:00.003-04:00

Despite a drizzling evening, Melinda and Megan decided to brave the weather and join their friends, Emerald and Isaiah, at the Kentlands neighborhood. Starting before sunset, they strolled the streets, trick-or-treating, collecting candy, and admiring the diligently installed decorations of goblins, spiders, and monsters. At the end of the evening, in the comfort of home, the sisters engage in their tradition of sorting and trading their gains of the night. Happy Halloween!

Visit from Brown's

2009-10-01T19:11:00.001-04:00

In October, the Brown family came to stay at our home for a week before moving out West. We had so much fun with them while they were here. On the last night before they left, Evelyn and Megan camped out in the house. We sure will miss them. Good luck, Brown's.

House Addition

2009-09-10T07:37:00.000-04:00

This summer we have been busy adding a family to the back of our house. Here is a review of the progress over the last 4 months in pictures.

Visit from Theodore Family

2009-09-01T08:16:00.000-04:00

At the end of the summer, we were privileged to be visited by the entire Theodore clan, including the cute Oliver. They stayed at our home for a few days while house hunting. Before they left, they insisted on making a dinner for us, which was very delectable. Thank you, Theodore's, for sharing this time with us.

Visit to Wang's

2009-08-28T23:00:00.000-04:00

After visiting the Hershey Chocolate Factory, we drove straight to our friends, the Wang family, who had just moved to Pennsylvania. We had not seen them for one or two years. After dinner, we celebrated a double birthday for Jessica and for I-Ming. Although it was a very short visit this time, we thoroughly enjoyed the time spent together. Welcome to the East Coast again, Wang family.

Hershey Chocolate Factory

2009-08-28T11:00:00.001-04:00

No, we did not go to Hershey Park because we already have been there. But we decided to surprise Jessica on her birthday by driving up to the Hershey Chocolate Factory. To our surprise and satisfaction, the free tour was pretty amazing and fun. We rode in an amusement style car that fit our whole family of seven. With multimedia presentations and lively displays, we learned how chocolate is made from the bean to the bar. At the end of the tour, everyone received 2 Hershey's Kisses. We also had a chance to buy a photo of our ourselves while on the tour, the kind of photo from a roller coaster ride only a lot slower. It was so fun that we rode it a second time. Of course, after the free ride, we entered the enormous gift shop and sauntered around for a while.

Visit from Chou Family

2009-07-06T19:27:00.002-04:00

In July, our family was treated to a delightful visit from Felipe & Petra Chou and their 4 children. As part of their whirlwind cross-country US history and Church history tour, they honored us by staying at our home for a few days. As such, they shared with us the celebration of the birthday of their daughter, Jesse. We shared with them the call letter for Jonathan. On Saturday, July 4, our families went to the National Zoo together in the morning. Since it was their anniversary, we took their kids to NIST to watch the Gaithersburg fireworks, while they went to the National Mall to watch the fireworks. On Monday evening before they left, we shared a memorable Family Home Evening together. Thanks, Chou family, for leaving us great memories of your visit. Come again!

Tsai family.

Jonathan's Mission Call

2009-07-03T17:41:00.004-04:00

Having travailed through an extra week of lab tests and physician affidavits, his mission papers were submitted one week later than his sister's. Nevertheless, the official white envelope did arrive in our mailbox yesterday. After work, Jonathan took a somber walk to our mailbox. When he started to scream, we knew it came. Nevertheless, out of respect and consideration for her sisters and mom, he exercised patience in waiting until today to open the envelope. After the caravan returned from Girls Camp, Jonathan pulled out the envelope. Again, the cameras converged upon the prospective missionary. He opened the envelope and read, "Elder Tsai, you are hereby called to labor in the Australia Melbourne West Mission for a period of 24 months. You are to enter the Missionary Training Center on September 30, 2009." Again our hearts are swelled with gratitude for these mission calls for Jessica and Jonathan, for the opportunity they have to serve, and for the preparation they have shown so far.

Jessica's Mission Call

2009-06-25T23:44:00.004-04:00

When we came home from work today, we were pleasantly surprised by the receipt of a distinct white envelope from Salt Lake City. Although we were exhausted from the day, we could not wait to hear the news. We gathered in our living room, freshly filled with new sunlight from an additional bay window. Two cameras converged on the family, especially upon the reader of the letter. She opens it carefully and reads slowly but distinctly. Jessica reads, "Sister Tsai, you are hereby called to labor in the Colorado Denver South Mission for a period of 18 months. You are to enter the Missionary Training Center on September 2, 2009." We all cheered in excitement. Deep down in our hearts, we are so grateful that Jessica can have this opportunity to serve full-time as a missionary when the Lord wants her to serve.

Concerts! Concerts! Concerts!

2009-05-16T08:15:00.014-04:00

How great and bountiful are the concerts our family has participated in or attended in the last two weeks! Let us count the ways (concerts).

May 2 - ASCYO (Academy of St. Cecilia Youth Orchestra) performance at The Weinberg Center for the Arts in Frederick, MD. What a beautiful traditional theater. Joshua and Melinda participated in this ASCYO concert and in the next 2 ASCYO concerts.

May 3 - Melinda's ballet recital was held at the Cedarbrook Community Church in Clarksburg, MD. This is a picture of her with her teacher.

May 7 - Poolesville Middle School. At the last moment, Melinda was asked by her flute teacher, Mr. Fogleman, to substitute as the flute player for the 2nd annual Spring Concert in the Poolesville Youth Symphony Orchestra. Jessica, navigated by Jonathan, drove Melinda to the school at 4pm to start rehearsal. Luckily, food was provided.

May 8 - ASCYO performance at the Olney Theater Center in Olney, MD. This was a more modern theater. Joshua was first clarinet and acted as the concert master in directing everyone to tune up their instruments before the performance for the Wind Ensemble. Melinda played in the flute choir. Both Joshua and Melinda performed in the Youth Orchestra.

May 9 - Amy Ye's ballet performance. Melinda was able to meet all of her old friends from her old dance centre.

May 11 - Some of Mom's piano students performed their Guild recitals at the Damascus United Methodist Church in Damascus, MD.

May 11 - ASCYO performance at the Kay Theater Center at the University of Maryland's The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center in College Park, MD.

May 12 - ASCYO Wind Ensemble concert at the Damascus United Methodist Church in Damascus, MD. Only Joshua performed in this one. However, it was the wrap-up meeting for the Youth Orchestra members, and Joshua and Melinda were able to recieve their Honorariums.

May 15 - The other half of Mom's piano students performed their Guild recitals at the Damascus United Methodist Church in Damascus, MD. Today Joshua and Megan participated in the Guild recital. Megan received 19 C's and Joshua received 29 C's. Way to go, Joshua and Megan!

May 16 - Melinda's State Solo & Ensemble Festival. She played a grade 4 piece on her flute and recieved a rating of 1, or Superior. Go Melinda!

May 18 - Jessica, Joshua, & Melinda performed Primary songs as a prelude for Mom's Group piano recital at Woodfield Elementary School. Altogether between Mom and another teacher, 45 of their students performed tonight.

These past two weeks have been filled with concerts and recitals galore. Our lives have been filled with the joy and the sound of music. We have been very busy but have grown closer together.

Visit from Cousin Larry

2009-04-25T06:21:00.003-04:00

My cousin Larry came to visit with his wife and daughter from New York on April 25. Larry's parents, my aunt & uncle, came with them as part of their visit to the United States. They were attending Larry's graduation. Here is a group photo.

Full House

2009-04-23T10:27:00.003-04:00

Last night, after long moments of anticipation, Mom and Jessica welcomed Jonathan back from BYU. Megan was too tired and did not make it to the airport, but she was up early the next day, excited and pumped up. After a handsome haircut, Jonathan came with Jessica, Megan, and Mommy to join Dad and Joshua and Melinda for lunch in the NIST Cafeteria. Besides being lots of fun, it marked a historic first time for all members of the Tsai clan to be at NIST at the same time.

Well, the house is now full again, but we can handle the load and the happiness. Just like the good old times! Welcome back, Jonathan!

Jessica is Back!

2009-04-09T13:06:00.002-04:00

On Tuesday, the long awaited day came for our family. On Tuesday at midnight, we sent an entourrage of three highly qualified personnel to pick up and carefully chauffeur the extremely jet-lagged BYU Study Abroad student from the BWI Airport back home. Technically it was Wednesday morning when Mom, Joshua, and Melinda welcomed Jessica home at the airport. The rest of us were slumbering in a deep sleep. Jessica probably did not have much time when she arrived home to enjoy and appreciate the creative welcome home banner made by Megan. Each of us wrote on the banner which now hangs from our second floor stair railing in the front foyer. Being the thoughtful daughter and sister that she is, Jessica spoiled us with gifts from The Land of the Long White Cloud, most noticeably delectable of which is the highly nutritious drink called Milo. She also showered us with things Aotearoa, such as kiwis (the bird, not the fruit) and, of course, tee shirts. We are grateful that Jessica is back safe and sound at home for the time being and that she has grown wiser and more experienced as a result of this semester in a far away land of New Zealand. Welcome back, Jess!

Sweet 16

2009-03-29T10:23:00.008-04:00

Yesterday morning after Melinda's flute lesson, our family picked up Grandma to go to the Rio. We gathered at the designated dining destination. Joshua chose Guapo's, a Mexican restaurant. We enjoyed our delectable meals of chimichangas, huevos rancheros, steak, chicken, and nachos. As an added surprise, the restaurant staff came out with glass of ice cream and a maraschino cherry on top. They gave Joshua a sombrero and sang Happy Birthday and clapped. Then they took a nice photo of him in a sombrero and the lighted candle on top of the ice cream and gave a printed copy for him.

Last night, Megan gave Joshua a puppet show that featured rhyming words with the "oo" sound. Here is the poem she made up:

Happy birthday to you!
Happy birthday to you!
Happy birthday dear Joshua!
Happy birthday to you!
Say oo! "oo!"
Switcharoo, kangaroo, peek a boo, lulluroo, Kalamazoo,
aaaawwwwwwooooooooooooooooooooooo!! Hhhhhhooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!! (jumping animals) aaawwooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!! (wolf comes back jumping!)
HHHooooooooooooo!! (ghost floats away with wolf stays on stage)
(boing!) (kangaroo scares wolf)
(Then they live happily ever after)
(jump off stage)

Now here are the puppet pictures Megan made. Enjoy! Happy birthday, Joshua!

Sweet As

2009-03-17T01:39:00.003-04:00

This is Jessica reporting from Auckland, New Zealand. It is currently 73 degrees Fahrenheit on March 17, 2009- Happy St. Patrick's Day! Unfortunately it doesn't seem to be such a big deal around here, at least not at the school I'm teaching at (Ranui Primary School). But Amy and I (Amy is my roommate, also from BYU) dressed in green for fun because Americans just like to dress up for fun.

Anyway, looking back on this semester, I feel like I've accomplished and learned so much about life and teaching. The first month here we squeezed all of our BYU courses and we were taught by New Zealand professors, as well as our director who came with us from BYU (Dr. Jacobs, we call him Papa J). So from these courses, we got more of an idea of how to teach in the primary schools (that's what they call elementary schools here). After taking the BYU courses, we took a 2 week holiday to the South Island (Queenstown and Christchurch) and then to Rotorua. For a more detailed account, check out my blog. :) And then after the 2 weeks, we began our 6 week practicum in the primary schools. I can't believe I have 1 1/2 of those weeks left and then one week exploring the Northlands, and then back home. Through the practicum, I've gotten a different feel for teaching because the teaching styles here are different than the US. It seems to generally be more laid back and doesn't seem as structured. We spend a lot of time doing art and fitness/swimming, and so far we've done a lot of assessing but not as many lessons as I expected. I like it but at the same time it feels like we're not getting a lot done. But I am grateful to have come and be able to see how another country's schools are run and take what I want to into my future teaching.

I have also just really had time to think about life and be with people I've never been with, and do things I've never done. Life is here, it's going on right now, might as well do things and not just sit there on the laptop or watching TV. that sounds so boring to me once I think of all these other things I can do with my life like go out on walks, go explore the city, figure out the train system, cook with my host family, do aerobics, play with my neighbors...there's so many things to do! why did I always spend so much time on the computer or the TV before? True I am on the computer right now, but to write in here and to do homework. That's what the computer is for anyway, but not to sit in front of for hours. I have also realized how great it feels to do service. Every Sunday at about 6 pm, our host family picks up the Relief Society President and we go to a bakery that closes at 6 and then they give us the leftover bread, because they are just going to throw them away. We bag them carefully (there's heaps! we probably fill up 10 huge bags, bags the size of Melinda maybe) and then bring them to the Relief Society President's house where other people come and bag bread from the bread that we got. We take several smaller grocery sized bags of bread ourselves and only keep a couple. We give the rest to our neighbors. It has become something we look forward to because and so do some neighbors. We get to know our neighbors as well, and there are two adorable Samoan girls who we like to play with and they go to Ranui (well one is too young but the other one goes there). It has been a pleasure serving these people and getting to know them.

Overall, I am so grateful for the opportunity I had to come to this beautiful country, to learn about the different cultures and to live among the people. I love my family and my friends and for everything God has given me. Life is beautiful.

Megan's Baptism

2009-02-22T22:08:00.004-05:00

It finally happened. The event Megan and her family have been waiting for over a year and have been preparing for the last month. Megan was baptized and confirmed today after church by her dad. In attendance were many of her friends in the Chinese Branch plus school friends and other special friends. About 50 people attended the baptism. Megan invited people to give talks, play the piano, conduct the music, and conduct the program. Afterwards, we enjoyed a dinner of curry and noodles. It is a sense of accomplishment and joy to know that all of your children have been baptized.

Band Band All-County Band More Band

2009-02-10T21:39:00.003-05:00

Josh has been taking much time... on his clarinet! This weekend was the All-County Senior Honors Band concert where Josh performed, and he says it was amazing, but regrets that it was not a recorded concert. The pieces were extraordinary, difficult, and expressive, but the band nailed it all. In addition to the extensive rehearsing for the concert, Josh is has frequent rehearsals for pit orchestra for 'Annie', Academy of St. Cecila Youth Orchestra, and studies repertoire in private lessons with Mr. Fogleman to prepare for this year's county (and hopefully state) solo and ensemble festival. Melinda also participates in many of these, and in school they both play in the Symphonic Band, practicing for the upcoming concert.

These Are The Snow Days

2009-01-28T21:31:00.001-05:00

This week we had two snow days. It was aggravating when dad went to work and there was no school. But outside there was ice. It wasn't nice because people get sick, people have to take care of the sick people and not leave their sight, those people get sick too, those people get angry and the previous people who were already get angry too. And sicknesses only get worse. Tomorrow is already scheduled a two hour delay. That's okay, but how could it have been worse. question mark ommitted.

End Of The 1st Semester

2009-01-23T17:13:00.001-05:00

It's finally the end of the first semester for Josh, Melinda, and Megan! Now with exams all over and schedule changes, it's time to be ready for the fresh new year. Unless of course you've already done that. Then just go with it.

Christmas in Swansea

2008-12-28T16:28:00.007-05:00

WE had an early start to our Winter Break because there was a water main break. All schools in Montgomery County got out two and a half hours late. I was sad, though, because we (Josh and I) didn't get to perform our marching band tour at Megan's elementary school.

We were all very excited to go to Uncle Joe's in Swansea near St Louis on Christmas Eve. We woke up at 6 am, and left at 7 am. We drove all the way to Joe's house with two or three breaks for brunch, and linner. When we finally got to his house around 8pm, we all enjoyed a meal of Neoguri and Shin noodles. Uncle Tim's family arrived not long after, and we all met Cousin Ashley for the first time (except for Jessica and Uncle Joe)!

On Christmas day, we all woke up and ate cereal together. We played the Wii and watched many movies. At around 4 or 5, Tsui Fang came and we all had a nice Boston Market dinner prepared by Aunt Joyce and Mom. After dinner, we gathered around the Christmas tree, set up by Joshua and Jonathan, and posed for photos. Then the long-awaited moment arrived. One by one, the names on the presents were read out aloud and passed out to the recipient. It was just fun and exciting opening presents and watching others open presents.

The next morning, we decided to go to the St. Louis Arch. Riding up the tram to the very top and then looking out the observation windows was a very unique and scary experience. We drove to the Galleria Mall, and, in the very crowded and noisy Food Court, we enjoyed our lunch. Then we strolled around the mall for an hour before heading back to Uncle Joe's house.

On Saturday, we had to drive all the way back to Maryland. The traveling was fatiguing and somewhat boring, but the whole trip to Illinois was definitely worth it and was most memorable. Thanks, Uncle Joe, for letting us come to your home to celebrate Christmas and enjoy a wonderful family reunion.

St Cecilia concerts

2008-12-13T15:38:00.004-05:00

Last weekend, Josh and I went to the ASCYO (Academy of Saint Cecilia Youth Orchestra) concerts to perform. We performed at Asbury Methodist Village, Damascus High School, and Clarksburg High School. Here is an excerpt from The Nutcracker that we played: The Dance of the Mirlitons.

We had a lot of fun doing these concerts, and we can't wait to do them next semester.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

2008-11-27T17:37:00.004-05:00

Happy thanksgiving to all!
Today, mom and grandma woke up early to start making our Thanksgiving lunch/dinner. At around 12 or 12:15, company came. First came Apple and her friends, then the elders. We had a good time talking, eating, and, of course, playing with Michelle. After eating the delicious meal, we went down to play ping-pong and watch "The Other Side of Heaven". Board games were played and much laughter was ensued. After eating a delicious pumpkin cheesecake with whipped cream, our guests left. We wish all a Happy Thanksgiving, and hope your Thanksgiving was as fun and wonderful as ours.

Pictures of Michelle playing with us today:

The Spirit Flag

2008-11-26T14:59:00.000-05:00

Today the spirit flag at Damascus High School was flown in honor of Josh! This is for his passing an audition for All County Honors Band (band geek!!) but not All State Honors Band (grr). But still, the only name on the sign was mine, and they pronounced my last name wrong on the announcements, so it was really exciting. Congratulations?...

Happy New Year!

2008-11-26T11:11:00.003-05:00

2008 was another year of new experiences and exciting events for our family. In total, we embarked on 3 trips. For Spring Break, we went to Ocean City to relax for a couple of days. Even though it was cool and windy, we enjoyed the relative quiet of the beach front.
Jonathan and Joshua are in the front seats to provide the needed manpower in propelling this family bike ride up and down the boardwalk. The long 2 mile ride must have been exhausting, but it was fun.
The beach is so awesome that everyone is jumping for joy. Megan is in the air. Our second trip was to North Carolina in the summer during Dad's business trip to San Diego. Jonathan had the opportunity to practice his driving with his new driving permit.
The warm sands of North Carolina must have felt very nice and comfortable. These kids are jumping for joy. Our third trip, we took with Grandma to Tennessee, Kentucky, and West Virginia.
Our trip in Tennessee began at the picturesque city of Gatlinsburg, the gateway into the Great Smoky National Park. Here we pose in front of the visitor center in Gatlinsburg.
We drove up to the parking area at the base of Clingman's Dome, the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
We are standing at the top of the tower on top of Clingman's Dome. From here, we can see a panoramic view of the whole park through the fog, of course.
The survivors who made it to Clingman's Dome pose at the base of the tower.
Our trip would not be complete without the awesome cloud maker, who magically breathes out beautiful clouds with a single puff.
After Tennessee, we visited the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln in Hodgenville, Kentucky. Megan proudly points to the entrance way of the replica of the log cabin in which Lincoln was born. The replica is in the same location as the original cabin.
Here, we were fortunate to call upon the home of our friends, the Fugal's also in Kentucky. Their gracious hospitality and warmth and friendliness made the trip the more enjoyable. Besides our trips, there were several notable events which occurred this year.
In January, we decided to cut down one of our two trees in the back yard.
Our good friend, Brian Johnson, volunteered his chain saw and expertise in climbing and sawing and cleaning up after the tree. This picture preserves one of the last moments of the tree before its final demise. Now the tree stands 5 feet tall.
One of the saddest moments of 2008 was the loss of our dear Toyota Echo. It served well for the short time it was with us. The memory of this prized vehicle will be forever enshrined in this precious photograph.
Megan has lost several teeth. She proudly shows off one of her original baby teeth.
Here is Melinda right before she receives the surprise 8th grade award, only given to 2 8th grade students.
Melinda graduated from John T. Baker Middle School. She stands proudly with her fellow graduate. Way to go, Melinda!
Jonathan finally graduates from Damascus High School. Here we bask in the glory of his accomplishments under a shaded tree.
At the beginning of summer, our lives were blessed with the opportunity to take care of Michelle. She brought a lot of smiles and cuteness to our home. In the summer, Jessica and Jonathan and Joshua all took on summer jobs. In August, Jessica and Jonathan flew to Utah for school. It was Jonathan's first semester at college. Megan started second grade, and Melinda started high school. Joshua is now the oldest child at home and is setting a good example for the younger sisters.

We had a great year this in 2008. Despite all the turmoil in the world, we have been greatly blessed in all aspects of life. We hope that 2009 will grant us more peace and happiness for our family and for yours.

Happy New Year!

Welcome To The Blog

2008-11-26T11:09:00.003-05:00

It's finally here! After much discussion and struggling for just the right blog name, we have bit the bullet and started our family blog. By the way, we actually do not live in Damascus but in Gaithersburg a block away from Damascus. But since most of our lives are spent in Damascus, and since there probably is not another family named Tsai in Damascus, we have chosen this title. Besides keeping up with the Chen's and Wang's in jumping on the bandwagon, we really do have a purpose for occupying up room on cyberspace. We start this blog site to show how richly blessed by the hand of God our family has been in our daily lives. To this end, we would like to share some of our prized accomplishments, miraculous moments, joyful events, thoughtful aspirations and feelings, and incredible ways we have grown.

So, here it goes. Enjoy!

	我仍繼續工作於聯邦政府並兼職任教於蒙哥馬利學院夜間班。今年，我領到教職15年教學證書。今年夏天，我意外驚喜的會見了大學的老學友，保羅和納爾遜，長聊敘舊，渡過一個美好的下午。我最感激的是有一個美好的妻子和出眾的孩子。我很幸運能生活在科技發達和豐滿福音的時期。
	我跟著致涵學習豎琴，致涵琴藝進步神速。豎琴老師說致涵很有才華。回顧10年鋼琴教學，自己的收穫和學習不比學生少。我喜愛教學。音樂是天國的語言、治癒心靈的良藥。十二月以聖誕為主題的音樂崇拜聖餐聚會，我們已感受到了”正義者的歌唱”是對神的祈禱。衷心祝福您----闔家平安、快樂!
	有趣的回顧這一年：傳道返鄉、暑期打工、緊接著到一個實習課（教小學三年級）。有時覺得好像傳教後的生活比傳教時更難，很想再回去傳教，但我知道，傳教已準備我去面對我今生真正使命和任務。擁有自己的教室我也學習了許多事，我知道我仍有許多要學習的。我知道生活就是不斷的學習和進步，我感謝所有這些經驗。
	過去的一年我大部分的時間是在澳大利亞墨爾本為耶穌基督後期聖徒教會的傳教士。傳道生活的一些個人成就，包括：知道如何有效的學習和為人服務、如何講漢語和閱讀中文、如何做飯（還能吃）、如何快速解決一餐、如何愛別人（仍在進步中）、還有如何對自己有耐心。回國是一個很大的變化，所以離返回猶他州楊百翰大學的時間僅足夠調整和適應這些改變。祝大家聖誕快樂。
	過去的一年對我來說真是忙碌極了，概括高中最後一學期的學業及所有排練和演出、大學術科考試、畢業告別、暑期在聯邦政府國家標準局打工、適應大學新生活。回顧起來雖然很忙，但我很喜歡。今夏，我和致慧、致涵、還有媽媽，一路從馬州開四天的車到猶他楊百翰大學。接受新生訓練、認識校園、步操樂隊集訓，很忙，很辛苦。不過我很喜歡這裏很友善人和學校的教育系統。期待假期回家團圓。祝聖誕快樂，新年快樂！
	今年過得太滿意了!我最喜歡的一件事情就是今年夏天開車去猶他州。猶他州比我想像的還要好─我可以走路就到我要去的地方，楊百翰大學〈BYU〉給我的感覺非常棒，我喜歡那邊的山和那邊的人。自從開學後，我總是想念去BYU上大學的兄姐和朋友，不過自從致琦傳教回來後，那失落感就消失了。致琦也時常成為我的私人司機！這是我高中的最後一年。我早上上學，下午在聯邦政府實習。實習幫助我眼界增長，融合教科書與現實的實際經驗，這真是一個有教育性質的方式，並且能與科學家一起做研究真的很有意思。每天實習後就到芭蕾舞校去練舞。雖然沒有像自己想要的那樣能有多一些時間吹笛子，至少在學校的樂隊也多少有機會練習一下。
	今年，我和姊姊致慧參加了菁華兒童合唱團。每星期五晚上我們學習唱各種不同語言的歌。今年秋天我開始上五年級。我每天乘坐校車先到貝克中學上一堂7級數學，然後校車會專門接送我們五位小學生回我們的學校。