WINTER HOME

From St. Malo to our Murray Ridge house, did I tell you how amazing this city is? Three weeks ago we can see the snow on top of Laguna Mountain on a sunny day at 5 pm in the city. And the following morning this was how in looked like, an ice covering my car's roof and windshields. So hard I had to scrape it off and pour some botlled water, just so I can see when I drive. And it was 51 degrees F. But, nothing compared to Lansdale, Pennsylvania or Flint. Michigan. The world weather has really changed. I guess we should have listened to Al Gore.

WISH I WAS THERE

North County in San Diego is very interesting mix of places where one can seem to be in a certain place at one time. And later minutes away be in a place out of yesterday. An example is a community called St. Malo in Oceanside. Built in the 1920s, the houses are of different sizes, but all of them cottage-style, big and small which easily be found in France or England. I somewhat thought a horse was going to pass by me. It's refreshing to feel that for a moment you are away, yet, is actually still in America. But, both near the ocean after the rain had stop. As they say here: "Only in America'.

Elaine's Birthday Album

Jason, Veronica and Elaine

A DAY WITH CINDERELLA

Never in my life I imagine I would see Cinderella in person. But, last February it happened at a first birthday party of Nette's cousin's daughter Elaine in Monrovia, in the northern suburb of Los Angeles. Needless to say, everybody-from the grandparents ,the parents, relatives and friends and most especially the celebrant-- had a great time. And even Gino which don't, but, later did after we passed by KFC so he can have his dinner. Enjoy the pictures.

BREAKFAST WITH MY FAVE SISTER-IN-LAW

After attending Sunday Mass, we ate breakfast at Mimi's Cafe, a New Orleans motif resto in Oceanside.

MY BIRTH DAY

In my 53 years in this world, I have celebrated my birthdays mostly in a quiet way exactly like the way I am. No parties, no many guests and no dancing or singing. I would go to Mass in the morning and to to school or work. And later in the evening I prefer to share it with my immediate family with a cake we buy near the Quiapo church in Manila. And I am happy that way. But, since I got married we celebrate my birthday sometimes with a little party-with karaoke singing, but, no dancing and sometimes only with Nette and Gino. And it is the latter that I decided to share my day this year. A small cake, a tall and tiny candle and the usual blowing of it. And I am happy that way--a simple remembrance shared with those that matters most to me. It could have been better if you were here. And that I wish later.