THE BEST OF TIMES, THE WORST OF TIMES

On September 11, 2008 we remembered the victims of the single most tragic event in American history. Many lives were broken, many pains were suffered by this very unnecessary and evil act perpetuated allegedly by one evil person (Muslim or otherwise). I can't fathom how the families of those who died are coping now. But, in this worst of time come out the heroes--cops, firemen, medics and plain office mates. These brave and hardworking men and women who toiled to right this wrong. Still, it's a very painful feeling when August finally ends and comes September.

In all of these sadness comes joy, at least for me, also to Nette and our friends, Nanie, Agnes and Carrie. And that is when I got the call from Arnel, on September 26, that we would really was going to see him and the Journey perform live in concert. To think that last August, I gave up of ever going to see one of their concerts this year. But, that month was saved by the excitement of my niece's wedding and seeing my family again, also. I'll treasure those happy moments with them.

And when October 1st came and having seen the Journey sing their songs of hope, encouragement and just plain corny feelings expressed in, of all media, rock and rock style, I couldn't ask for anything more. Because the memories--sounds and sights of them, especially, of course, our Idol--still lingers in my thoughts. Tanong nga ni Aggie kung high pa raw ako hanggang ngayon, when we chatted tonight. And I answered without hesitation:"Yes!" But, their US concert tour ended October 5. So that was it, I just have to wait for the Summer of 2009. And indeed I will wait to continue the journey.

But after October 1st came the collapse of Wall Street triggered by the greed and false sense of being of some to what Americans should really be. The excesses of some citizens of this great country--the urge to keep up with the Joneses, as they say. And by their recklessness and foolishness to have it all, to know it all, it ultimately comes to all of us, globally, who will pay and suffer for it. The US government will not be able to solve this problem as one knowledgeable source I talked to said. And to think it started to grow slowly six years ago and nobody was payin attention. All of them wanted some of the goodies of course. Some believe Uncle Sam can fix this mess, but, I believe only the GOD-father and the SON can do the job. All we have to do is pray FAITHFULLY, DON'T STOP BELIEVING IN HIM, BE GOOD TO YOURSELVES AND CHANGE FOR THE BETTER.

And what do we do about those careless Chinese who allowed this "Got (Tainted) Milk! hysteria grow to such monstrosity. Should Uncle Sam do some spanking to his favorite or most favored nation. It's interesting to see how the Eagle battles the Tiger. To wit:"The eagle can fly, but, the tiger cannot eagle." All the tiger can do is crouch! And what does that do? So, does that mean the Eagle will win. Abangan Ang Pagdapo ni Juan "Journior! HOHOHO! I mean: Hehehe! Or maybe Someone's (or Something's) Good Waiting For Me (Us)? And make me feel good again. Winning the lotto wouldn't be bad! I just have to work more on my "The Secret" formulate! LOL. I hope I have lighten up your life.

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.

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY DOC!

After 51 years here on earth, what do you supposed you have something to show for it? Have you been good? Have you been fair? Have you loved and have been undertanding? Have you been helpful and cheerful? Or have you been bad. Or have thought of yourself only? Or ALWAYS frawning?

Lynn has only been good to others and most specially, to himself, courage to do what he think is right and what it is that what really make him happy. He has accomplish so many successes and I'm sure will continue to do so. Okay, let me be truthful--he has on ocassions frawns. But, doctors are also human. They get sick, too. Hehehe.

Because you've been good all these years, my wish is you'll finally see Santa Claus this Christmas. As it is said:"Yes Scrooge, there is a Santa!" Even if I know we were not bought up believing in one, just like in a White Christmas. To you, my favorite kid brother (hehehe) and doctor, a happy and delicious birthday.

On A Clear Day

Shown is the beach off Tamarack Ave. in Carlsbad. Another perfect day in our small paradise, reading a book or just strolling along the shore. But, I have to go back to work. This is a typical weather here, it might be very warm on the weekdays, but, come the Saturday and Sunday, it's almost always changes for a more georgeous climate. Hope you all can come and see these someday.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GAIL

Today is my niece's birthday which sad to say my family wasn't able to celebrate not even once because we are always away from them since she was born. She has grown up to be a responsible and very bright adult which I was seeing that she would be from the time she was in high school abroad. Oh, we saw her once, here in the States when my brother's family visited us during the 90s, but, she was just a small girl, now she's lady with lots of accomplishments. She's a very good writer which she got after my Father who's the most intellectual, followed by my kid brother, in the family. As for me, I am just as trying hard to be. She also a fine photographer, which she got after me--I guess. She also a website designer bar none. I hope and sure she'll continue to reap more successes in her young life.

So, Gail, we want to say Happy Happy Birthday and wishing you more to come and hoping also that we got to spend your special day more often.