Good Bye Macosur

15th November 1996 Macosur Company officially closed down. Today, the office paid all the outstanding salary to all the staff and workers but without a farewell party.

The sawmill already stopped for half year without new log coming in. Followed by the S4S line shortly after all the remaining raw wood are used up.

17th November 1996 Senior Ramirez came to our house to paid up G65,000 (US$33) he owed us and gave us a warm good bye. After that he carried his 2 bags of all belonging and waited for a public bus by the highway. Moment later he board a bus and with it he left forever.

Senior Ramirez aged 60+ is the oldest office staff of Macosur sawmill who worked for the company almost for the whole life. Now at his retirement age he saw also the company closing down. How much he keep for his remaining life from the company he work for I do not know, but I understanding the intense of his financial difficulty that for the mere US$33 took him half a year to pay up.

And for my whole family, 2 weeks later on 1 December 1996 we started living in a condominium in Ciudad del Este City just 22 Km away. My job continue as usual under the Taiwanese company.

The Paraguay sawmill was later dismantled after the land changed ownership, with only its formal address remain in history record:

MACOSUR S.A.

RUTA 7, KM22,

ALTO PARANA, MINGA GUAZU.

TEL: (595) 064-510

MACOSUR S.A. -

MAderas del COno SUr S.A.

(Timber of Southern Cone)

International and Multinational Private company .. Asuncion .. Manufacturing:

November 15, 1996 (Friday)

Macosur closed. On this day they already paid all the workers.

November 09, 1996 (Saturday)

Went to birthday of Noemi. The celebration was held on their

Evangelican church. Yee and I are the godmother and godfather of

her 15th birthday.

November 15, 1996 (Friday)

Macosur closed. On this day they already paid all the workers.

Normi's quinceañeras

Normi's dresses for quinceañeras (galas for girls' 15th birthdays)

Normi's 15th Birthday

November 09, 1996 (Saturday)

Noemi's 15th Birthday celebration at their Evangelican church. Shirley and I are the godmother and godfather of her 15th birthday.

Quinceañera Celebration - Celebration of 15th Birthday

The Quinceañera is a celebration of a young girl's coming of age (her 15th birthday). In Paraguay, like else where in Latin America, a girl's 15th birthday is considered an important milestone.

This Hispanic tradition dates back to the ancient native cultures of South America.

This rite of initiation, that is rooted in the customs of the Toltec & Aztec, the Maya, the Quechua and other indigenous civilizations, continues today in the traditions of the present-day Hispanic cultures.

In Latin America's Latino cultures, a girl's 15th birthday, (a quinceañera) , marks her passage into adulthood. This celebration often includes a religious ceremony at church, in which the young lady recognizes her heritage and her spiritual journey.

September 15, 1996 (Sunday)

Family picnic in Km 36. We bought fish and barbeque there.

The 2 young brothers played with Xing Xing. Xing bath for few

minutes because the water is so cold.

One paloma died and 2 missing.

At night I cooked steamed fish.

September 08,1996 (Saturday)

We went to Km 65 (Mr.Chens factory )together with Fernando and

Mr Chou Chin for asado. The first time I met Mr. Chou Chin.

At night we went to house of Nelson for birthday of the son. I

gave watch as a gift.

3rd Anniversary

“Do you know what PARQUE is? “ A Taiwanese asked me in Hong Kong.

“errrrr…… Flooring !!? Wood plank for the floor !!?.....” I answered with hesitation but with confident.

I got the job. He became my employer. I came to my new office in South America.

Sunday 6 June 1996 3rd Anniversary of our marriage.

Today is our third wedding anniversary. The past few years have flown by so quickly!

3rd Anniversary mean 3rd year in Paraguay. In less then 3 months after married in Hong Kong, we flew half of the globe to this part of South America. It was just like yesterday, but we are already living 3 years in Paraguay....with a first son born in South America .....time fly.

Shirley decorated the sitting room. Cooked and we have guest for our anniversary celebration meal.

We have guest for our anniversary ....... the mother and sisters of Josephina. And the girl sitting on the 2nd left is the daughter of Nelson, the security guide who is on shift at the factory main gate that day.

Wedding of Emilio and Sonia

June 01, 1996 Saturday

We went to the wedding ceremony of Emilio and Sonia at Church 16Km. We have to be there because we are the god parents of this newly wed.

It was one Monday a month ago (May 06, 1996) Emilio and Sonia accompanied by Jose came to our house and request us to be their godmother and godfather in their coming church marriage ceremony. Shirley delightfully accepted.

"...what should I do as a godfather?" I asked Shirley later.

"...walked her into the church and give her hand to the waiting husband in front the altar...." She is sure of this.

.... And I did that on the day of wedding ceremony of Emilio and Sonia.

Birthday of our teacher. Some brought bocaditos like sopa

Paraguayo, milanesa and others. The cake and cokes we contribute­ed. After eating we had picture taking. I asked them to pay me

1000 Guaranies each after developing and they agree.

TEXT BY SHIRLEY WONG

March 18,1996 (Monday)

My fist day in

Modista class started on 18th March 1996. The first project for the students were uniforms chqueta (chaleco), skirt and blouse.

April 02, 1996 (Tuesday) First time we used uniform. Birthday of our teacher. Some brought bocaditos like sopa

Paraguayo, milanesa and others. The cake and cokes we contribute¬ed. After eating we had picture taking. I asked them to pay me 1000 Guaranies each after developing and they agree.

December 03, 1996 (Tuesday)

I did not go to school. Looking for a house to stay.

December 04, 1996 (Wednesday)

Cleaned the new flat w/ Aida.

December 05, 1996 (Thursday)

Yee and I bought refrigerator and stove from abasto.

Started moving things.

December 08, 1996 (Sunday)

It is Caacupe Day.

Fernando fetch us to macosur. Taking some of our important

things.

February 17,1996 (Saturday)

Yee was making for the cage of the Loro. I painted it with

color green.

I paid 30000 guaranies to the man who cut grasses. It should

be 20000 G. only but we paid extra 10000 G.

At night we Yee and I burned some of the grasses. For the

first time it cleared cut all the grasses in the garden.

We have eaten our lunch and dinner in the garden.

11th January 1996 Late Spring. Summer is approaching.

A lazy afternoon in our side-yard. Chun Xing have fund playing his toy, the horse, with care taker Josephina. While at the back-yard Shirley saw the onion she planted is now growing.

The staff quarter we stay is at the back ground - The water tower, kitchen window, bathroom window, bedroom window, and portion of the front yard. The highway is just 50 meters at the left hand side. This is a typical country house in South America.

This back yard is our open living room we spend our time in spring, summer and autumn.

to see the green snake and

has eaten 2 birds on the guava tree (house made by Peter).

1995 New Year Eve

December 31, 1995 (Sunday).


New Year Eve
31 December 1995 Sunday

Sandra and Ceasar (Guard's son and daughter) came to visit the father.

They helped us in the garden by fancing a plot of vegetable bed using empty beer bottles.

We never drink beer, these bottles were an accumulation by someone from the factory for years. We decided to make use of them.

We put on the hose to water the plants then Xing Xing starts playing the water happily.

Xing Xing was hammering the furniture and playing on the logs yard with earth and wood.

At night was a mini party for New Year. We have two security guards. The families of 2 guards came.

Our factory is patrolled by rifle-toting security guards on day and night shift. The factory manager and we live inside the factory compound.

12:00 midnight, BBQ at the guide house with the family members of the 2 guides.

  Xing was fast asleep while we welcome the New Year.

27th Birthday of Shirley

Km 20, Minga Guazu
27 December 1995 Wednesday


December 27, 1995 (Wednesday) is Shirley 27th birthday.  They had an outing at Rodeo Km.20  while I go to work in Ciuded del Este.

Unsatisfied with the fun, at nigh they continue the birthday party with barbeque in the house of Leonardo.

In Minga Guazu District are 4 rivers : Monday, Acaray, the stream Acaray-mi and Santa Maria. I do not know which river this is but this stream is just 1 km from Macosur factory where we stay. All these friends are from the neighbor hood.

Prize for Christmas Lucky Draw

December 1995

December 10, 1995 (Sunday) In the afternoon were playing volley ball together with Ariel, Sony, Lillian and Nilsa suddenly Marcelo ran and knock his forehead to forehead of Sony.

December 17, 1995 Sunday) Elvira changed the lock of the gate and we do not have the key.

December 23, 1995 (Saturday) Josefina has gone back to her house in Sta Rita for Christmas Holiday.
Only comes back on December 27.

December 28, 1995 (Thursday) Leonardo has a sister who is a nun.  They met today and she gave Shirley a pendant (Maria Auxiliadora).

December 29, 1995 (Friday) Shirley cleared the grass on the garden for planting vegetables. Replanted the white bean from the can to garden.

Strike at Friendship Bridge

Photo above downloaded from Google Image. The view is exectly the same angle view from my office at Panonama apartment building.  This photo dated August 2008 most probable taken from the same building.


A beautiful view of the Friendship Bridge (Puente de la Amistadthat) from Paraguay crosses into Brazil.

I used to walk across this bridge alone. But crossing this bridge for cars is a challenge during weekdays.

Its a two lane bridge  and the traffic moves slow.  On a Sunday day (when all shops closed) a car can get across in half an hour.  But weekdays may take as long as couple of hours to cross.


November 24, 1995 (Friday)
I came back from Brazil but Fernando stayed there because the car cannot pass on the Friendship bridge. The Paraguay people had strike because of the new law of Brazil.


http://library.fes.de/pdf-files/iez/50026.pdf

Ciudad del Este is an Informal international trade center which depends heavily on shopping "tourism."

Brazilians and Argentinians travel to Ciudad del Este just to take advantage of the low import duties to purchase consumer electronics, office equipment, perfumes, whiskey, cigarettes, and other consumer items.

This trade, along with illicit trade through the area, has earned Ciudad del Este notoriety as a smuggler's paradise.

Shopping tourism declined in 1997, the year we left Ciudad del Este for Malaysia.

This is because of weakening economic growth in Brazil and Argentina and stricter controls by Brazilian authorities.

Holiday in Paraguay

Date	Holiday
January 1	New Year's Day
March 1	Heroes' Day	End of the Triple Alliance War
March/ April	Maundy/Holy Thursday	Movable, Lunar Calendar
March/ April	Good Friday	Movable, Lunar Calendar
May 1	Labor Day
May 15	Independence Day	May 14 and 15 for schools
June 12	Chaco Armistice	End of the Chaco War
August 15	Founding of Asunción	Arrival of the Spaniards
September 29	Boqueron Battle Victory	Chaco War version of D-day
December 8	Virgin of Caacupe	Immaculate Conception
December 25	Christmas Day	Jesus's Birthday

November 1995

November 21, 1995 (Tuesday) Went to accompany Vilda and the sister in CDE at the same time took photograph at them.

November 22, 1995 (Wednesday) Josefina and Shirley played volley ball, after playing they played on the sand together with Celia(maid of Elvira), Diego and Marcelo. They covered the body of Josefina using sand and put flag on her top using guava leaves.

November 26, 1995 (Sunday) Shirley went with Vilda and sister (Sussana) to Km 16 Don Bosco to attend the graduation day of Nilsa. Xing Xing stayed with me at home.

After graduation they had bocadito and brought cake.

November 27, 1995 (Monday) Shirley brought Xing Xing together with Josefina and Nilsa and the mama (Juliana) for swimming in Km 21. We rode on a cargo truck. It is quite a nice place. Xing Xing likes to stay very much in the water. He doesn't want other baby to use his salbavida.

Returning home by taxi at 2:30 P.M the rest at about 5:00 P.M.

At night we all went to CDE office for the night.

Josefina came the next day. Not many people in CDE because of strike. The puente close so the people from Brazil can't pass at the same time from Paraguay also.

November 30, 1995 (Thursday) Shirley made a decorative candle to decorate in front of door while Xing Xing was playing.

Shirley cut a feliz Navidad Ano Nuevo decoration with color printer in the CDE office.

I went to Brazil with Fernando and come back at night.

October 1995

October 07, 1995 (Saturday) Went to watch the video of Xing Xing's birthday in the house of Luis.
It was the birthday of Vilda (wife of Luis). She got a Philippines t-shirt from Shirley.


October 08, 1995 (Sunday) In the afternoon we went for a event by the Chinese Association in Cde. There are so many prices like Hi fi set television etc. but we did not won any of them, together w/ us is Nilsa.



October 12, 1995 (Thursday) Shirley has  Sarna (Scabbies) sickness. She  went to Km. 41 alone to consult. The doctor recommends the Benzodermol soap and Benzodermol liquid (lotion).

Josefina took care of Xing Xing.


October 14, 1995 (Saturday) Repaired  the 4 arm chairs made last year holy week. After repairing will make a bed for use in Cde.

Xing Birthday

Sept.18, 1995 (Monday) Had given away the invitation of Xing's birthday.

Sept. 19, 1995 (Tuesday) Went to Asuncion for signature of our cedula and return the next day.

Sept. 21, 1995 (Thursday) Went to office Cde for Eca to clean and washing the clothes of Paul and Fernando.

September 23, 1995 (Saturday) Ordered Pepsi 36 bottle (2 litters) of soft drinks for birthday.

Sept. 24, 1995 (Sunday) The 1st birthday of Xing Xing. It was raining so the party postponed. Marcelo gave the gift to Xing Xing as well as Raul.

September 25, 1995 (Monday) To Asuncion for cedula's signature.

September 26, 1995 (Tuesday) Went to Identification for signing our cedula. Paul has gone to Taiwan in the afternoon.


September 30, 1995 (Saturday) Celebrated the birthday of Xing Xing. It was a nice party w/ decorations and videos. The guests are all happy because of foods of course and surprise gifts.

For the boys cars and chocolates and candies w/ whistling chicken, for the girls dolls chocolate and candies w/ whistling chicken. that some of the mothers asked dolls for them to decorate in their house.

Leonardo to take the invited neighbors here by taxi because it was still muddy because of past rains.

Brazilian Circus comes to Paraguay every year

Ciudad del Este
16 September 1995 Saturday

Sept. 16, 1995 (Saturday) At night we went to CDE to watch circus w/ Francisco family and sister of Elvira.

Brazilian Circus comes to Paraguay every year.

While circuses were already extinct in most parts of the world, in Paraguay we enjoy a round of circus almost every year.

New staff New office

September 07, 1995 (Thursday) We are moving to CDE so we went to cleaned the new office. In the afternoon we started buying the surprise gift for the coming 1st birthday of Xing Xing.

Bought 30 pcs of dolls and 24 pcs. of car.





September 09, 1995 (Saturday)
Paul treats us to restaurant together with the new staff of Prior , Fernando

September 10, 1995 (Sunday)
In the afternoon we went to the house of Hervandro. After we came back to macosur we went to Stroll in the lake together with Nilsa. This is the first time that Xing Xing goes to Lake.



September 11, 1995 (Monday) Moved the computer to New office in CDE.

5:30PM Paul and Fernando and I gone to Asuncion and coming back tomorrow.

September 12, 1995 (Tuesday)

CDE new office is ready. I went to sleep in CDE New office.

September 14, 1995 (Thursday) Shirley and Xing came to CDE office to sleep there.

Its my birthday

2 September 1995 Saturday

My 42nd birthday today.

Shirley prepared her specialty spaghetti while Josefina roasted chicken in the oven.

We eat at the front yard and this would be my 'happy birthday party'

Santa Rita - economical center of agriculture

August 29, 1995 (Tuesday) We arrive in Macosur and giving Pasalubong the next day.


August 31, 1995 (Thursday) Shirley went to Sta Rita to get a maid together w/ Leonardo and Paiva and Eca
It’s a long distance and she paid 100,000 guaranies for the taxi of  Leonardo.
They ate dinner at the prestigious Sta Rita Hotel.



Santa Rita is a district of the Alto Paraná Department.


Santa Rita was founded by brasilian Immigrants in the late 70ies.

The City is located in an highly productive agricultural area of soja-beans and cereals.

60km from Macosur factory where we were staying. 41 Km at Ruta 6.

For a population of 300.000 people, Santa Rita is an economical center of cattle and agriculture.


The Staufenberg Hotel
Santa Rita, Paraguay
31st August 1995 Thursday


Built in the years 1987 to 1989, the hotel unites native guarani art elements with typical european components. Combine solid construction with a maximum of art-effects.

Singapore

August 25, 1995 (Friday)

Our flight left malaysia at 1:00 and reaching Singapore at around 3:00 P.M.
We stayed in La Meridien Changi hotel and it was very nice place.

August 26, 1995 (Saturday) We walk up early in the morning to hurry our flight but we missed it.

We have to stay for an day in Singapore in the same hotel.

Took a  1:00 P.M tourist guide.

Singapore Botanic Gardens
26 August 1995 Saturday


August 27, 1995 (Sunday) This time we came early to airport. This time we left Singapore at 7:00 A.M to Tokyo. We stayed in Tokyo after few hours we transfer to United Airlines going to New York.

There somebody brought us to waiting room and won't allow us to go out by ourselves that even getting hot water of Xing Xing they accompany me.

We left New York at 10:00 P.M and reaching brazil at around 9:00 A.M. from brazil we took American Airlines flight and there first time they gave Xing Xing a present. The bag contains 2 nappies, 1 spoon, a book and others. Finally we reach Paraguay very safe for about 2 days transferring planes.


We go immediately to Japanes Hotel and after reaching we lied down and slept for long hours.

KK city

Kota Kinabalu City
23 August 1995 Wednesday


August 23, 1995 (Wednesday) Dinner at Chin Ka Tins house. Shirley and Xing stayed in the cinema to watch movie.

Kinarut Beach

Kinarut Beach
Malaysia
22nd August 1995 Tuesday


Seaside Travellers Inn, 20km south of Kota Kinabalu City (KK) along the Papar road, in a village called Kampung Laut Kinarut.

MIMPIAN JADI RESORT

August 20, 1995 (Sunday) Going back to K.K.

On the way to K.K we passed to a Taiwanese Hotel.

MIMPIAN JADI RESORT

Tuaran, Malaysia

20-8-1995 Sunday

It was raining when we reach K.K.

Malaysia

August 15, 1995 (Tuesday) The day we left Philippines to Malaysia. We arrive in Malaysia at around 9;00 A.M.

In the afternoon we brought Xing Xing to Doctor for his cough and flu.

In the evening Stella sent us to Doctor Jeremiah for fever.

This is the the first time Shirley met  Stella and Henry and William.



August 16, 1995 (Wednesday) Stella recommended us to another hotel. The hotel we selected was a ‘Cheap’ hotel only for the ‘local’.

So we moved in to New Hotel she recommended  near the Cinema where she has her shop.


August 17-19, 1995 This next 3 days we went to BCCM  together w/ Stella, Henry and William. using the car of William.




August 21, 1995 (Monday)  Uncle Syak Choi family invited us for  dim Sum in the Hotel Shanglila

Leaving Manila

August 12, 1995 (Saturday) Xing Xing's baptismal in Saint Vincent Baguio in the Philippines. After the baptismal we went to Camp John Hay for picnic.


August 14, 1995 (Monday) The day we left Baguio going to Manila by airplane. After reaching Manila we go to Philippine Village Hotel. It is a nice Hotel.

More birthday parties

July 01, 1995 (Saturday) Birthday party of Mariela. They celebrated in the house of  Nelson.

July 02, 1995 (Sunday) Birthday of son of Jose and Maria.


July 03, 1995 (Monday) The temporary maid started on this day. Carlos was the one who  look for maid (Josefina) from km 22.


July 07, 1995 (Friday) It was raining. Have been to Bank Sudameris to withdraw money  for ticket after that to banco Oriental to deposit 1,000 dollars  to Shirley account.

We also went to (infantil) to inject Xing Xing for  hepatitis B. I paid 70000 Guaranies for the hepatitis injection.

Injection at Centro de Salud Minga Guazú

June 22, 1995(Thursday)

Shirley brought Xing to Centro de Salud in Km 16 at 8:00 A.M for free injection of Sarampionosa.
As usual, they called Leonardo texi.

Came back early 9:00 A.m.

Centro de Salud at Minga Guazú is just 5 kilometers away.

Centro de Salud de Minga Guazú

taxi driver's reunion

June 21, 1995(Wednesday) At 1:00 p.m we went to the house of Leonardos mother and brother to get oranges. There are more than 4 bags of mandarine, lemon and oranges. At night Yee and Xing eat a lot of oranges.





June 23, 1995 (Friday) Leonardo invited us to go to taxi driver's reunion tomorrow in Km 21. One ticket worth 4000 guaranies.


June 24, 1995 (Saturday) It has strong wind and it's raining and has also lightning. A few minutes that has no light. We didn't able to go to taxi driver reunion party because of strong rain. Instead Leonardo just sent the food to us.

2nd Anniversary day

June 09(Friday) Our 2nd Anniversary day. We eat in Shangri-la (Lee garden) to celebrate our anniversary. Around 70,000 Guaranies for the restaurant.
Xing Xing always wants to crawl under the chairs and table.

Hernandarias

June 05(Monday) In the morning Lorenie told Shirley that the son of Nelson found and tied the cow.


June 06(Tuesday) I brought the mother and son with me  to Hernandarias after that I collected the photographs of Lilians birthday.

Before going back to Macosur we Passed to Km 16 for check up of Xing (cough).

They give him Nebulization. Yee paid 100000 Guaranies for taxi. We were using that car 1:00 P.M up to 6:00 P.M.

Birthday parties

June 03(Saturday) At night we attend the birthday party of Christian David (son of Paiva). We stayed there up to 10:30 P.M. Xing was very happy looking at the light of Video.

June 04(Sunday) Xing and Shirley attended  the birthday party of Leonardo Ramon (son of Lillian and Leonardo). While I am returning from Asuncion.

The Cow is gone

May 26, 1995 (Saturday) The Cow was gone.

May 27, 1995 (Sunday) The photographer came to give us the photo of Luis mothers Cumpleanos. At the same time Xing also took photographs together w/ us and the puppy.

May 28, 1995 (Monday) Went to Km. 16 for check up of Xing Xing. This time we tried another Doctor (Dr. Caballero) introduced by the driver Leonardo.

Lillian, taxi driver wife,  also brought their children check up (Ramon’s face bitten by the dog). The time for check up of Dr Caballero is afternoon.



May 29, 1995 (Tuesday) Went to Km.19 to see the cow. We went there first w/ Silvina, Caballero, Jose by using the car of Macosur.

 The second time we Went by taxi. We brought the picture of us together with the cow then we realize that cow is not belonging to us.

After that we went Immediately to house of Lorenie's mother and there we found the Cow.

Uchiyamada Hotel

May 24, 1995 (Wednesday) Moved to Uchiyamada hotel. For dinner we eat in Uchiyamada restaurant. We cooked in our Table.


May 25, 1995 (Thursday) Went to park in Asuncion to see the pigeons. We bought corn For the pigeons. We also saw the children living on the squatter area. Gave them orange (mandarin).

Diamond Restaurant

May 22, 1995 (Monday) Went to Asuncion to send Paul.
 It was cold day We slept that day in San martin hotel.

We have dinner in Lee Garden together w/ Marcos after that Marcos  use his car to bring us  to see a painting exhibition.

May 23, 1995 (Tuesday) Sent Paul to airport. We eat dinner in diamond restaurant.

Mother's Day

May 15, 1995 (Monday) Mother’s Day Out to CDE just to eat in the restaurant. We lunch at in Tokyo restaurant to celebrate mother's day. I bought 1 red flower for Xing as regalo for his mother.




May 20, 1995 (Sunday) Today we went to Quintana's factory to attend the birthday of Luis mother. We gave her 20,000 guaranies as regalo.

Opening a bank account in Paraguay

May 01, 1995 (Monday) Today's is worker's day. At night we have asado together w/ Leonardo and Lilian, Luis and Vilda. We ate outside the house.


May 02, 1995 (Tuesday) We went to CDE to open a bank account of Shirley. It's needed in Order to get cedula. The minimum is U.S$ 5,000. We only deposit 4000.


May 04, 1995 (Thursday) Went to Km.16 to get certificate of Police that we are living here in Macosur. Our witnesses were Francisco and his wife Elvisra. We paid 20,000 guaranies for the certificate.

After that we went to Tokyo restaurant for Lunch.

Dinner

April 12, 1995 (Wednesday) It's a non-working day because of Holy week. We just stayed in Macosur for  carpentry works.

April 13, 1995 (Thursday) Holy Thursday.  Finished the shoe shelves.

April 16, 1995 (Sunday) We invited Lillian and Leonardo, Luis and Vilda to eat dinner in our house but Vilda did not able to come. Cooked fried chicken and curry beef and rice.

April 29, 1995 (Saturday) Went to CDE with by texi because  it was raining. We paid the taxi forty thousand guaranies.

 It was Marcelo's birthday we bought toy as regalo for him. We bought also a table chair for Xing worth 169,420 guaranies and some clothes for him.

April 30, 1995 (Sunday) Jose and the wife came and we cooked fish asado. At night we just ate sardines w/ rice w/ Vilda.  

Xing Xing's first time to eat cooked foods

March 24, 1995 (Friday) Today is the 6th months of Xing Xing. We went to km. 41 for his check

We bought thandador for Xing Xing. In the afternoon we went to clinic of Doctor Cardozo to inject Xing Xing.

Xing Xing's first time to eat cooked foods of potato with chicken soup.

cedula and passport of Xing

March 06, 1995 (Monday) Went to Km 41 to get birth Certificate of Xing Xing in Hospital (important for his document). In the afternoon we went back again to Asuncion. We took the 6:30 P.M bus.


March 07,1995(Tuesday) We went to Agency and one of the staff brought us to government department for Identification Card of Xing Xing.

We went there in the morning for Cedula and in the afternoon we went to another department for passport.


March 08, 1995 (Wednesday) We moved to  Japanese Hotel Wednesday morning because it's near to  Agency. There is much better than San Martin. That Hotel has restaurant.

No result about the cedula no. of Xing Xing.


March 09, 1995 (Thursday) We took taxi going to Identification office to ask what is the no. of cedula of Xing Xing but no result yet so we go directly to terminal back to Macosur.


March 22, 1995 (Wednesday) Xing Xing can already say ma-ma. Ana was the one who heard first


March 23 1995 (Thursday) I  came back from Asuncion with the cedula and passport of Xing Xing.

Applying for an IC

March 01, 1995 (Wednesday) Today in non working holiday (no work). I went to CDE to buy ticket going to Asuncion.


March 02, 1995 (Thursday) We took the 9:00 A.M bus going to Asuncion to process passport of Xing Xing and Cedula.

After we reach Hotel San Martin we took a rest and directly going to Agency. We didn’t able to do it because the birth Certificate of Xing Xing in hospital was needed.

In the afternoon Xing and Shirley stayed in San Martin while I went to Limpio factory.


March 03, 1995 (Friday) All of us went  to Dr. Melenie's factory (Limpio).
In the afternoon  went to another factory w/ Marcos while the mother and son stayed in Hotel San martin.

At night we have dinner  in Diamond restaurant.


March 04, 1995 (Saturday) We came back to Macosur and go again on Monday.

First trip to Brazil

January 31, 1995 (Tuesday)    To Cascavel in Brazil following Mr. Manfred.

Cascavel is a city, but Manfred live in the city outskirt. So for the few days in Cascavel, I stay mainly in his area.

He recommended a small hotel. A clean friendly hotel on a hill. Looking out from my hotel room, is a vast green country side similar to the above photo from internet.

Cascavel, the quite part of Cascavel where I stay,  is a clean and comfortable place.

One late afternoon, a small group of local dancers with a couple big drums marched into the small hotel lobby and start beating  the drum and dance.

I did not watch too long and walked elsewhere.  It they could use a small drums with lower noice, I would enjoy the rest of the afternoon with them.

Guava Jam

  January 28, 1995 (Saturday)    Vilda got Guava and cooked jam here in the house.   

  

January 29, 1995 (Sunday)    Xing  Xing's  first taste of food (Nestle in bottle).  He  has eaten 3 spoons of nestle.  

Injection

January 24, 1995 (Tuesday)   Today  is  the  4th months of Xing Xing. We did  not  go  to hospital because I was waiting for Manfred.   

  

January 25, 1995 (Wednesday)     Went  to km 41 (hospital) for the 4th month check up of  Xing Xing. Xing Xing's weight is 5 kilos 650 g. He's 60.5 cm. tall.    

January 27, 1995 (Friday)    Doctor Cardozo came here to Macosur to inject Xing Xing.    He injected triple o D.P.T (Difteria -tetanus- Tos  convulsas) and  also  he injected for Anti-Haemophilus influenza b.  He  let Xing take medicine for sabin oral (Anti polio).     Xing Xing cried a lot because of his leg (injection).

Xing first trip to Assunsion

  January 09, 1995 (Monday)    This morning Yee together w/ Paul gone to Asuncion.    It was raining.

     

  January 21, 1995 (Saturday)     We  went to Asuncion. Xing Xing's first time to  travel.   We slept in San Martin Hotel.  We met Paul in Asuncion to send him off to Taiwan.

     

January 22, 1995 (Sunday)      We took the 1:30 P.M bus back to Macosur.    

Caballero Family

8th January 1995 Sunday

Sunday. Thinking of somewhere for an outing, we thought of Caballero family.

Their small wooden house also served as a sundry shop of the area. The small store is just 5 minutes across the highway. The wife also delivered few months ago. We want to see how their baby getting on.

We sat in front Caballero's shop for a bottle of Pepsi.

Shirley took photos of the family.

Their new born baby is Patricia.

Patricia (baby of Caballero)

        January 01, 1995 (Sunday)   It's New Year   Early  in the morning at around 5:30 A.M Xing Xing fell down from the bed.

    We went at 8:00 in the church but we arrived late because the mass finished at 8:30 A.M.

      January 03, 1995 (Tuesday) Workers started their work this year.  

January 04, 1995 (Wednesday)     Went to Km. 41 (hospital) for the check up of Xing Xing. He's now 3 months and 10 days. He's weight is already 5 kilos and 100 g. The measurement of head is 40 cm. and he is 60 cm. tall.

January 05, 1995 (Thursday)    The doctor said he will come to Macosur  for the injection of Xing Xing but he did not come.  

  

Maria Auxiliadora Cathedral, Minga Guazú district

Maria Auxiliadora Cathedral
Km 20 Minga Guazú district
1st January 1995 Sunday

First day of a new year 1995.  We decided to go for a short outing near by. There is no other batter place near by then this Cathedral.  It is just 1 kilometer from our factory.

Maria Auxiliadora Cathedral, located on top of a hill at Km 20 Minga Guazú district
Iglesia Maria Auxiliadora -Minga Guazu District - Alto Parana

Maria Auxiliadora is the Patroness of Agriculture in Alto Parana. In this district, every May 24th is a holiday for the local people.

On this day all Catholic faithful turns to the Cathedral dedicated to the Virgin of Don Bosco.

Lorenie's church wedding at Maria Auxiliadora Cathedral

10th December 1994 Saturday

Maria Auxiliadora Cathedral
Km 20 Minga Guazú district

December 10, 1994 (Saturday)

9:00AM we went to attend the civil marriage ceremony of Lorenie in their house. Lorenie's house is just opposite the highway 5 minutes walk from our staff quarter.

At night we attended their church wedding at Maria Auxiliadora Cathedral. 
Macosur Manager Jose Quintana, wife Mirta and three children came also.

Photo above : After the church wedding with the three children of  Jose Quintana.

Carrying Xing is Sofía Quintana.

December 09, 1994 (Friday) Shirley went to CDE with Vilda to buy a new pair of shoes to ware during the wedding of Lorenie.
Also bought some Christmas toys for the kids of workers.

A new born and a young cow for Christmas 1994

.........For this Christmas, we have a new born and a young cow ...........

December 06, 1994 (Tuesday) It is a Sunny day.

After lunch, Shirley bath the baby boy first then she herself took a bath  and changed with nice drasses -- a sign of going out for a big function. Yes it is.

Today is the drawing day of  Christmas Lucky Draw and Shirley has been exciting since morning. 

Jose is the one who organized this Christmas Lucky Draw (Sorteo).  The winning prize is a young cow. 

To joint in this game, participant get a coupon from Jose for 5,000 Guaranies (US$2.50). Your name will be written in a piece of paper deposite in a box together with other names.  On the drawing day a piece of name will be picked. That will be the Lucky winner. The winner get the prize -- a young cow.

So Shirley bought 3 coupons for our family of 3 members.

And today is the drawing day.   

During tea break all factory workers get together in front the office ground and wait eagerly.  From the box containing piece paper of names, some one picked up a name and ....... that is the name "Shirley" !

Shirley won the cow!

For this Christmas, I have a first born and a young cow......

December 07, 1994 (Wednesday)

The cow wanted to escape. Its only the secondary day she, the cow, put up with us.

Afternoon I went to Minga Guazu hardware shop to but a thick string to tie the cow.

December 17, 1994 (Saturday)

Morning, I went alone to Ciudad del Este to buy couple dozens of Swiss multipurpose knife as Christmas souvenir for the man workers. Shirley will buy for the lady workers tomorrow.

These are low cost made in China imitation Swiss Knife.

Bought a set of 'Silverstone' cooking utensil for Shirley as Christmas gift.

December 19, 1994 (Monday) Vilda and Shirley went to CDE to buy some more gifts for the children of  worker.  Bought some dolls, cart and car (toys).

December 20, 1994 (Tuesday) Gave out gifts to the workers (mini knife)  and dolls to Lorie, Amelia and Norma.

December 21, 1994 (Wednesday) It is raining.

December 24, 1994 (Saturday)

Afternoon Ya Chin, Ya Ling and their parents and a relative came to Macosur. They brought for us some grapes. They came to see our baby.

Evening, the wife and sister of Jose came here to celebrate Christmas Eve.


They cooked Chipa Guazu, and made Lyrico (mixed fruit with Coca Cola).
We barbequed chicken and pork with cha-sui sauce.



December 25, 1994 (Sunday) stay at home this whole Christmas Day. The baby is too young to being for outing.




December 26, 1994 Monday

  Paul called Macos to come for year end inspection.
  He will come on 29-12-94 and stay 1 night.


December 27, 1994  4:26 PM  Tuesday

  Paul visited Timber Land this afternoon.
  Xing had his afternoon sleep in the office.

  This week factory closed for X'mas holidays.


December 30, 1994  11:00 AM  Friday

  9:00am Marco start stock count.
  11:00am completed calculation.

December 1994

December 04, 1994 (Sunday) We visited Julio and Josefina in their house.

December 27, 1994 (Tuesday) Maria visited us to greet Shirley Happy birthday. She gave birthday gift and gift to Xing Xing also.

December 28, 1994 (Wednesday) Maria started working for Paul. At night we went w/ Sr. Francisco and Elvira to the wedding of Ana and Paiva. It was raining.

Children Friends

Maria

4th November 1994 Friday

Maria, our domestic helper.

November 1994

November 03, 1994 (Thursday) At about 9:00 we watched the eclipse (sun covered by the moon) outside the house.

It was become dark like night. After the eclipse Maria and Shirley went to CDE and I took care of Xing Xing.

November 06, 1994 (Sunday) We only stayed at home because it was raining.

November 12, 1994 (Tuesday)

Shirley and Ana slaughtered the white cock.

Ana sweat a lot. Half of that cock given to Ana.

November 18, 1994 (Friday) Gone to Asuncion. took the 9:00 bus.

November 23, 1994 (Wednesday) Gone to Asuncion .

November 24, 1994 (Thursday) Maria accompanied Shirley to hospital for the 2nd month check up of Xing Xing is now 6 kilos and 640g.

November 25, 1994 (Friday) Doctor came to the house at around 11:30 A.M for Xing Xing's injection. He injected 2 legs of Xing Xing. The payment was 170,000 guaranies.

Came back at around 10:00 P.M from Asuncion.

November 26, 1994 (Saturday) Lorenie came here to watch Xing Xing , Shirley sew her civil wedding clothes, starting 12:00 noon and finished at around 5:30 P.M. 

Babies

October 24, 1994 (Monday) We weren't able to go to hospital For Xing's check up, it was raining
Shirley taught Elvira (Sra. Francisco) how to cook pancit noodle in their house but without meat. Sr. and Sra. likes to eat pancit



October 25, 1994(Tuesday) We rode taxi (friend of Silvina) to hospital vise versa. The weight of Xing Xing is now 3 kilos 750 g. He is 52 cm. and the measure of his head is 36.5 cm. Xing Xing did not cry at all when the doctor checking him in the hospital.

October 28, 1994 (Friday
Xing Xing has difficulty in bowling so when he passed stool he cried so loud.

31st October 1994 Monday

In the afternoon Ana came together with baby son Christian. She asked to take photo of Xing Xing and Christian.

1 month

Oct. 10, 1994 (Monday) Shirley went to Hospital (Km.41) w/ Maria for Chun Xing's 2nd check up. The doctor told to wash Chun Xing w/ boiled Guava leaves and w/ medical soap and creme.

Went over to Supermercado for shopping.


Oct 20, 1994 (Thursday) Maria and Shirley went to CDE it was raining They bought some ingredients for cooking this coming Saturday. We are going to celebrate one month old of Xing Xing.

I stay at home to take care of Xing Xing.


October 21, 1994 (Friday) Shirley busy chopping the ingredients (vegetable) for tomorrow. while I took care of Xing Xing.


October 22, 1994 (Saturday) We celebrated 1 month old of Xing Xing. Invited some friends. Cooked barbeque chasiw and chicken, noodle (pancit) and chicken curry.Sr. and Sra. Francisco asked Shirley to teach Elvira cooking pancit and curry.

It was raining, so we did not eat in the garden but instead we eat in the veranda of Sr. francisco.

First outdoor

6th October 1994 Thursday
In the afternoon we sat in the garden. First time take Chun Xing out the house.



Oct 07, 1994 (Friday) Went to Asuncion for inspection in Dr. Millanies factory.
Mr. Ole came to Macosur together w/ his family.

Admitted to hospital again

Oct. 01, 1994 (Saturday) Went back to hospital to remove Shirley stitches. After removing stitches suddenly vomiting, stomach pain at the same time diarrhea.

Doctor confined her in hospital Saturday 12:00 midday up to Monday morning.


Oct 03, 1994 (Monday) Before Shirley release from hospital CHUN XING has his checkup.

We paid 268840 guaranies for Shirley confine and 15000 guaranies for CHUN XING'S first check up.

HOSPITAL
SANATORIO YGUAZU
27-9-1994 Tuesday

Xing was born

24th September 1994

Wong Chun Xing was born

Baby born

Sept 24, 1994 (Saturday) At 6:00 A.M the sign of labor arrived.

At around 11:15  went to hospital. The hospital is only half day starting to close when we arrived.



At around 7:00 Pm. Dr. Tanaka (Japanese) told us that it's easier  to be caesarian

At 7:42 the baby already delivered and started crying.


Sept.25, 1994 (Sunday) It's already afternoon when we first feed the baby (bottle feeding)


Sept 27, 1994 (Tuesday) The infermero asked us to come back on Saturday.


We're out from hospital and paid our bill and back to Macosur. Couldn’t find taxi so telephoned Sr. Francisco to fetch us and Caballero came after 30 minutes.

Moll trees are laden with berry - Black Mulberry Tree

Sept. 04, 1994 (Sunday) Took the 2:00 P.M Bus going to Asuncion. (Nuestra Sra. dela Asuncion.


Sept. 06, 1994 (Tuesday)

The black berry tree has already fruits.


Sept. 11, 1994 (Sunday) Went to Maria Jose's house for her 1st birthday party.

Sept. 15, 1994 (Thursday) Today is expected date of delivery but no sign yet.


Mr. Ole and me went to Ciudad del este to discuss about the selling of machine


Sept. 16, 1994 (Friday) Caballero sent us to hospital for check up. The doctor asked to come back again on Tuesday if without any show of delivery. We bought 1 sack of Japanese rice and corn for the chicken and cock.

We have a chicken and a cock.


Black Mulberry-Morus nigra

The Black mulberry (Morus nigrais) is a flowering plant in the family Moraceae (mulberry family), tribe Moreae.

A common tree grown in the plain for shade.

The dark purple colored fruit is edible, but is rarely eaten by the local people.


The berry-like fruit of the Black Mulberry  has a very tart, sweet taste.

The Black Mulbery is a medium sized tree usually only reaching 20-30 ft, but has been know to reach up to 70ft tall.

The tree  prefer full sun.

The Mulberry has a long history in Chinese medicine with all parts of the tree, including the fruit, used to treat a wide range of ailments. The fruit is considered to have a tonic effect on the kidneys as well as helping digestive functions and premature greying of the hair.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morus_nigra

Nearby is also a Persimmon tree with fruits no one seem like to eat.

Birthday

Sept.01, 1994 (Thursday) Gave Jose 20000 Guaranies for cleaning the tank.


Sept. 02, 1994 (Friday) My birthday.

My gift from Shirley is a shirt, violet in color.


Mr. Ole w/ a friend from England came to discussed with the Chinese buyer about the selling of the machines.

Hair Cut

Dead mouse in the well

August 26,1994 (Friday) Lorenie discovered that the water was smelly and there's a died mouse on the well.

August 28,1994 (Sunday) Feeling geedy. The whole day sitting on the arm chair. Did not eat anything.

August 29,1994 (Monday) We went to Km.41 for  check up. Doctor checks my blood (Analysis). We'll come back tomorrow for the result. Mr. Francisco sent us and also wait for us.

August 30,1994 (Tuesday) Went back to Km.41 to get the result of Analysis. The doctor said It is fine. But the nurse said his blood pressure is low.

August 31,1994 (Wednesday) Jose cleaned the tank.   

Bush fire

1994 Forest Fire

August 23, 1994 (Tuesday) There's a strong bush fire. The fire was started from the neighbor at 4:00 in the afternoon. At 6:30 it's already in Macosur's land.

The firemen came for three times. I helped Luis (guard) and Caballero to stop the fire going to Ramirez house. We took photograph behind the fire.

Each winter there will be a bush fire in the wilderness at the North of our factory, but this year of 1994 is the most serious according to the local. This happen to be our first winter in Paraguay (We came at Spring last year after Winter) to witness an exciting bush fire that last for 2 weeks. On 23rd August 1994 night fall the fire reached perilously close almost 50 meters to factory building. This is a dangerous zone.

Louis, the security guide with a gun in the photo, called the other 3 factory staff who live just opposit the factory across the highway and together a team of 6 of us (including me in the picture) tried to cut out a line on the dried grass land to stop the fire from advancing toward the factory.

The most valuable assets of this factory are the wood flooring (property of the Paraguay company) and the 4 sets of wood working machines (belonging to my Taiwanese company)

With the help of wind direction, we managed to preventing the fire from advancing, thought the fire stay strong and continued to burn for the next few days.

Fortunately the fire was brought under control, though not extinguished, before it reached the factory. Thanks to the efforts of the Louis, Kabarello and Nelson and his son. Fortunatly they all live near by.

The next morning, the fire around subsided. (photo above), but at the distand field the small fire continue for the next few days.

Where does the fire came from?

On the north of our factory is a maize field of few acares. Before the farmers start their planting each Spring, local farmers usually deliberately setting small blazes to land-clearing. Strong wind and dry weather promote the fire to cover much greater area.

Spring season came after the fire incident on 23-8-1994 and exactly 1 month later Wong Chun Xing was born on 24-9-1994. We named him CHUN XING means Spring Star. (Should have named him Fire Spring).

Now the above group photos of the smiling faces against a background fierce fire bring back so much warm memories of our exciting days in the far distant country Paraguay.

August 24,1994 (Wednesday) Workers worked outside the factory because of too much smoke from the fire last night. It's painful for the eye.

Luis was absent. Jose was the guard. At night the fire started again going at the back of Machimbradora line. Jose called the firemen again. Sr. Francisco rode in the bulldozer to take some water and trying to stop the fire.

August 25,1994 (Thursday) The workers finished their worked at 2:00. They will go to cemetery.

Francisco , Marcelo and us had a walk to take photo of the burned land.

Wooden washing machine

August 16,1994 (Tuesday)

Maria, and us with Caballero car went to Km41 (Supermercado) to buy  wooden washing machine and vacuum cleaner.

August 19,1994 (Friday) The mama of Marcelo was looking for him for how many minutes. They found Marcelo in the house in front of the computer.

August 21,1994 (Sunday) Making a shelf in the store room.

Office renovation

August 13,1994 (Saturday) To Ciudad del Este . Bought the air pot worth 96 U.S$ also a jean cloth for making bag for putting baby's things whenever we stroll.

August 14,1994 (Sunday) Went to Km.41 bought 2 cans of paint (yellow and white). Painted the store room (stripe) while Shirley sewing the jeans bag.

August 15,1994 (Monday) Today has no work(Asuncion Day). Jose, Cabana and Eduardo came to cement the office (red).The wife of Jose and the son also came. Shirley cooked barbeque fish and veg. curry. 

Buying a baby cot

August 06,1994 (Saturday)

Went to Ciudad del Este. Eat lunch in Tokyo restaurant this time is boufey (eat as many as you can )for only 6000 guaranies.

August 08,1994 (Monday) After 5:00 P.M Raul sent us to Km.16 to buy bed for baby and

the baby bath at the same time we also bought our bed. The shop sent us to macosur.

August 12,1994 (Friday) Went to Km.41 for Shirley 8th monthly pregnancy check up. The doctor told to go on 8th or 9th next month. Expected date will be on 15th of September.

Brought the computer set and the table to  the house for Jose to cement the floor.

Going to Assunsion

August 03,1994 (Wednesday) Went to Ciudad again to buy ticket for tomorrow going to Asuncion.

Bought 4 diskette again.

August 04,1994 (Thursday) Gone going to Asuncion with 9:00 A.M bus (Nuestra Sra. dela Asuncion). In the afternoon Maria came to office to learn typing tutor.

August 05,1994 (Friday)

Got my  2000 dollars (salary) and return at night after sending Paul and Howard to Airport.

Puppy

Giving a new look to the bathrooms

August 01, 1994 (Monday) The seller of the fish came. Bought a fish for 20,000 Guaranies (4 kilos). he is coming on Friday to collect the money.

 Jose agreed to paint the 2 bathrooms for 100000 Guaranies. I  paid 50000 Guaranies in advance.

August 02,1994 (Tuesday) Jose started cleaning the bathroom in the kitchen.

Bought CD Mavis Beacon.

Maria learned how to type the fingering.