What a day, 6 November 2012!

Nov. 6, 2012, an election day, is one of the longest, most meaningful and memorable days in my life.

Morning
Early in the morning, Paul and I drove to Croton-Harmon Station to be on board an express train to Grand Central to meet Yvonne and Willie at East Japanese Restaurant on 210 E 44th Street. Since we were early for our 12:15 appointment, we set out for 1st Avenue to see United Nations (UN) buildings. Paul took several pictures of me with UN as background, to help me to fulfill one of my youthful dreams, i.e., to be an simultaneous interpreter for UN.

Noon
I immediately recognized Yvonne in front of the restaurant, after our quick visit to UN. She is not changed at all, just like herself 34 years ago. In fact, she looked much younger. Soon after Yvonne found us a very exclusive table, Willie joined us. He has changed into a very distinguished registrar at the UN. We exchanged and caught up with our life changing events of 34 years, in a short span. Along with other 600 students (three grades), we spent three and a half years in Congming Island, study and farming. What was our life like? "Just like Navy Seals," Yvonne summed up most eloquently.

Afternoon
A little before 3:00 pm, we finally broke up after hearty laughter, sincere promises and group pictures. Willie showed us how to get to Rockefeller University on his way to his office. Bursting with pride, we saw our niece Wendy in action, performing experiments in her lab. As it was nearing dusk, we decided to return. Wendy is a true NYC resident, knowing all the back streets from 63rd to 42nd. She managed to find us a 4:30 p.m. express train leaving in 4 minutes, even after our pit-stop at a cafe.

Evening through Night
We arrived at our destination about 5:30 pm and visited Mom at her Manor. After putting her into bed, Paul and I spent our memorable night at Ying's, monitoring ever-changing election results, and eating our late dinner and snacks provided by Sue. We were all very philosophical towards the two candidates, therefore no heart-wrenching or hair-splitting political augments among us. After the final result was pretty much confirmed, we suddenly felt dog-tired and dispersed to our respective rooms. Our nephew and niece had been sound asleep, oblivious of what was going on that night.