A GATHERING OF FAMILIES AND SPECIAL FRIENDS

What would Christmas be without families and friends to spend it with? Shown are the Aguiluz Family, the Callanta Family and the Hopkins Family. Known whose family is missing? My family. Wishing would we could be together again on this joyous day.

CHRISTMAS EVE 2007

This is the view from the front gate, the back patio and the colored lighted peach tree. It's just amazing to look at these lights which goes well with the full moon and the chilly night's air. These are the times we feel blessed that of all the places to live, we ended up here--an almost perfect site and good people.

A MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM SUNNY OCEANSIDE

A Merry Merry Chrismas To Al My Love Ones! This greeting comes from us here in Oceanside, California. Home of the US Marine Training Base-Camp Pendleton, the largest such facility. It is also here that you can find, actually about 3 miles from our house, the San Luis Rey Mission, the largest mission church established by the Franciscan priest in 16th century. The photos shown is that of the Oceanside Marina and Harbor, just southwest of Camp Pendleton. There are small quaint retail stores and covered picnic tables near the Pacific Ocean. After a dip in the water, Kuya we can bring you to the Joe's Crab Restaurant which famous for their shrimp and seafood fares in a pirate's hideout setting. With year-round sunny weather even during Christmas day, Oceanside, being the first city you'll reach in San Diego County, would be the best start when you visit us. But, there's more to see like the Oceanside Pier that extend about a mile from the downtown area. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip and we'll be your hosts. Have a bright day any day.

WINTER SUNSET

This was taken this year along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) 101 in Cardif-by-the-Sea, next to Encinitas where we stayed temporarily shortly afer arriving from the R.P. way back in 1987. It was an autumn day when I took that shot and it will be winter starting December 23. This is our winter sunset which made Bing Crosby sing about longing for "I'm Dreaming of a White Chistmas." The song was in reference to weather in San Diego during this time of the year. Have a Merry Christmas where ever you are. For Christmas is in the heart not the gifts, although, I must admit it's nice to have both.

The very very tall Christmas tree at South Coast Plaza near John Wayne Airport in Irvine, California

A wreath near the living room

"When I was small and Christmas tree was tall", as the song goes. Well, our tree is smaller than any of us.

The giant Christmas tree in front of JC Penney at the El Camino Real Mall, now Westfield Plaza, in Carlsbad

CHRISTMAS IS HERE TO STAY

Our parol blinking bright as a star

IT'S BEEN A WEEK

Is it already a week since I last posted an entry in my blog? Pardoname! Pardon me!
Excuse my absence from your presence. There's no essence for such thing. It's just that we are busy decorating the house or busy driving around the stores for the cheapest bargain on Christmas items. It can be pretty overhelming, overdreaming and overbudgeting. Last Saturday, we went to the Apple Store at South Coast Plaza in Irvine, about 70 miles from home and you'll get what I mean. All the latest gizmos are there like the IPhone, ITouch, the Touchscreen GPS systems and I touch my temple cause I'm starting to have a headache. Next we went to IKEA. We looked at the Christmas decorations which Nette was planning to buy. Then, we went home a 2:30 and late in the evening, the three of us planned to see Will Smith's "I Am Legand." Only to find out it was showing yet in the theater near us. So, we went to Jack in the Box for Gino's Cookies n Cream milkshake. So, we just watched "Dreamgirls" on HBO at home. Next thing we know it's the sun had set. And all in all, right there is where our whole day went.

And Sunday was spent with me pruning and trimming the flowers and trees around the house. And putting up more Christmas lights at the back patio and the left side lawn. All of which I have to do in the morning, while Nette went to work, because the San Diego Chargers football team are on TV vying for a playoff spot. I cannot miss that one for this might be the year they'll be finally win the Super Bowl. America is really a sports nation the whole year round. If you're a sports fun, you'll love living here. As the NBA slogan goes:"I Live For This!" and is true. At least for me, even while I was still in the R.P., I was watching oval car races and rally car races on TV even if I didn't have a car yet. And when I finally had one to drive, there was no stopping me. There and especially when I got here. As one singer would sing:"I've been to many places in my lifetime, I"ve sung a lot of songs that made some bad rhymes." I driven to many places here and listened to many music along the way. And it wasn't a bad trip after all. Not at all.

Monday is work, work, work. So are Tuesday and Wednesday. And in the evenings are rest, rest, rest. And writing and dedicating more Christmas cards I forgot do and sent. Even though my apologies to those who won't be receiving one this year. So you see ten days is not that long. If my days are longer and my night shorter, maybe then I would be able to spend more time with you. But, even if I don't, be sure to know I'm thinking of you all always. Till we meet again.

TATTOO OR NOT TATTOO, TOO

"To tattoo or not tattoo." That's the line I have been seeing the past months. Whether to have one or not. Whether you want a clean body like a blackboard without any writings because you don't know the answer. Or a body like a mural of canvas like that of Juan Luna's Spolarium. If you want one, how many do you want? If you know how many, what part of your body you want them put on? If you now know where you want them, what's the design you want? A face--of yourself or that of a fish or somebody you idolize. Or any design you fancy or worship or any object to protect you from harm, like a rosary, a snake or sword. If you know what design you want, will be in black and white or in high definition color? Lastly how big or small would them to be? If you now know the answers to all of these, go ahead and have them. You're the Master of your Body.

I just have one question to ask: Oh,are they going to be permanent or just stick-on?
Is it more harder or painful to have them removed than when they were done the first time you decided to have them? But, as they say:"No pain, no gain." You're a man now. We can decide for ourselves. But, now is the point of no return. But, also be proud of yourself for having the guts to tattoo. To me, this is still a question. "Tattoo or not tattoo, too."

Hey guys, I mean no pun intended, I was just playing with words, whether those words have wisdom or not. Just the same, I love you. So don't be surprise if one day, one place you see me with ..... Wait for my next post(s) on these.

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.

No Words, Just Chat

No words, just signs to tell us what or what not to do. No words are enough to let them know how we feel, even if i try hard. Nor no words are needed to make others change if they don't want to. A little chat, a little type, a little emotion icons are some to make us feel better. I did feel... Have a chat, join a conference. If you fall asleep, no words are needed. Sleep weel. Have nice weekend.

Got Food?

Belated Happy Thanksgiving Day to all of you. Most of all I want to thank God that He made me come down (or be born) and be a member of this family. I feel blessed that you and my love ones, good friends and extended families alike are part of my life. I couldn't ask for a more perfect members, not like some families I know who constantly fight with each other. The only fault I can find, though, not that very serious, is our love or too much love of food. And that's explain our happiness on expecting birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and soon next year the wedding of my niece. Or the togetherness we share when we all go out for a simple lunch or dinner.

That's why I haven't had time to post is because I can still taste the turkey, stuffings, mashed potato, gravy and cranberry juice we had last Turkey Day. And there's some more left-over in the fridge. Though I don't get too big, unlike some people I know (guess who? Hehehe!) even if I over-eat, I made it a point not to eat a lot. That's because it's got to do with my metabolism. Got to do with my age. And most of all, it's got to do with my doctor. There's some health parameters that's a litte high. And most of all, it's got to do with my wish to spend more time with you all.

But, sometimes I cannot help it. Got some food? Some wise old man said: the way to live healthily is--Eat like a king at breakfast, eat like prince at lunch and eat like a pauper at dinner. That maybe true, but I don't have time in the morning. (Gino doesn't even breakfast.) Lunch at work is limited for I have to take my power nap. (while Nette doesn't eat lunch, depending if she has a tour to do) That leaves me a dinner I look forward to especially when I can compete with you guys on who eats the most during Chat Friday.

So what's for Friday? Got Food? Pork chop, tempura, shimps or batchoy? Whatever it will be, just take care of yourself and exercise. And after that let's go to Hana or Asian Buffet. As Pinoy, we say: We live to eat, not, eat to live. To all--TGIF= Thank God It's Food! I'll see you at this same table.

BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY & ADVANCE HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Gwen, I'd like to greet you a belated Happy, Happy Birthday. I remembered it when it's the 14th here, so, late na. As they say: Better late than later.I'm sure you all celebrated it well. May all your wishes come true and the future be more fruitful and more success come your way. Belated Happy Birthday also to Argenie, who is like my own daughter, who I had the great chance to take care of. If only her grandma wouldn't be so selfish as to let Argenie forget us others who love her just as much. Your Mom and me miss you a lot. One day we'll meet again. I still remember the last I saw you: we ate with your Mom, Tita Nette and Gino at Homestyle Buffet at YOUR birthday also. Gwen (and Gail), I may not have had the time to spend your many birthdays with you, but, that doesn't mean I love you less. It's just that we don't have the means to do so before. Now that we have, let's party on till and enjoy the moment that I've missed all these years. Though, I have to practice my two left feet or take up ballroom dancing. Yabang ano?

Lynn, so I won't forget to greet you. I'm greeting you advance Happy Birthday. I may not have been in touch with you often before we discovered the internet. But, you are dearly missed by me and my family. I appreciate what you have done to help Mom and Dad financially and emotionally. I know it was of great sacrifice on your part. During those times when they needed someone, you and Kuya were there. As much as I wanted to be there, too, I couldn't. I hope you understand. Kuya, huwag ka nang magtampo, this goes for you, too. We're a brotherhood of three men and one sister. Hehehe!

The Box Has Landed

Just a while ago this evening, Lynn texted me that the balikbayan box have been delivered at their meatshop in Pasig City, not PASAY City, as I mistakenly wrote in the waybill. I'm very sorry, but, at least it wasn't lost. This maybe a good thing--this day being closer to December--the items that we sent might be considered our Christmas gifts to all of you guys. Hehehe! I hope you like the stuffs we sent especially the cameras and the Ralph Lauren POLO shirts.

I inquired at the shipper's office here and was told that it might have been delayed because of the Barangay Election and the November 1st All Saint's Day long holidays. But it has taken longer for it to get there that I was afraid somebody else is enjoying and very happy with such good fortune to have an early Christmas gifts. Patay kang bata ka. Well, I was wrong and now know that I can still trust my shipper and the goodness of people.

It reminds me of the time that Ferdinand Marcos was flown out of Malacanang Palace by American pilots during the People Power days in 1986. Marcos was asked where he and his family wanted to go. He said:"Paoay". The pilot said:"Okay Mr. President". When the plane landed at the airport, Marcos asked:"Where are we?" "Welcome to Hawaii, Sir". Patay kang bata ka! And now, as far as I know, the President's body is preserved in the place he'd always wanted to go back to- in a museum named after him in PAOAY, Ilocos Norte, not Pasay or Pasig.

The New Me, Part 2

This is what became of me after the Halloween. After a facelift and frontal enchancement, do I look like somebody you know? I know what you're thinking--he looks like Nette. You're right. I just wanted to look like just like her. Who wouldn't want to? She's the most cheerful and friendly person I know. And most of all, husbands and wives tend to look alike as they live together longer. Though, I couldn't say that with my own parents--so, maybe that's why all their children--that us-don't look somewhat the same, too. I look like a Chinese, Lynn and Mabelle look like Indians and Kuya, well, he looks like Ariel Ureta or Rico J.

As some people get older and their faces look older too, today, there many ways to recapture lost youthfulness and one of them is to go to a dermatologist or a face surgeon. Michael Jackson comes to mind. And it doesn't make them any happier. More famous, maybe. For the wrong reason. For me, except for chubby cheek, chinky eyes, a big nose and being a dark-skinned face, I can accept what God has given me. Just don't judge me by my face. Hehehehe.

a seagull near Coast Highway 101 in South Carlsbad

A Greener Landscape Ahead For Mabelle

Baby What A Big Surprise

After a stressful last weeks of October caused by the fires in paradise and the first two commemorative days of November. Now comes in sight the view of a much greener pasture,a much enjoyful life, a much better life for one of our own. The breaking great news was revealed to us yesterday evening that for a while we didn't believe what we were seeing. And after showing us more proofs that everything was for real, we knew that it was the truth. And who could be more happier than my kid brother and me (and later I'm sure, my whole family here and abroad). So, without further ado, stand up Mabelle and family, accept our greetings of congratulations for an accomplishment that you should have deserved a long time ago. You really did a great job on this one. I assure you that it is so, because unlike me, you did it without asking so much help from anybody. It may have taken for both of us to finally get this, I say it was worth the wait. And we can proudly say that we stayed true to ourselves and the respect that comes with it. I can even say that I felt more (a little bit) happier with this than when we got ours. I can only imagine what you are feeling now and the coming weeks. I say this should put a big smile everytime on your face for a long time.

I know from experience that this is only the start and a lot has to be done. And this thing is NOT the only way to make us to be really happy, but, it's definitely a big help. Don't you agree? But,I'm sure you know that also by now. We all learn from our mistakes, correct them and stand up stronger after we fall. Let the past be our guide to a better future. Good things happen to good people and who ask for help from God. Even if we fail sometimes, we will receive what His mercy will give us and return stay true to his teachings. Am I sounding too corny already? I can't help it I have to put down my reading glasses which is starting blur out with tears. Tears of joy and relief for who better feel and understand than me who saw you grow from an innocent girl to a more mature mother and wife. I may not have been there for you when you needed me. But now, I'm just a TXT away, so to say. I will always remember this important day, too.

Now it's time to drive into new and greener pastures, time to see the world and time to hug and meet (again) those people that really matters to you. Without fear and without shame. Holding your head high and be proud again. Holding again those warm hands of our parents that have all our lives all meanth unconditional love and unending comfort while there is time. For I've seen too many 80th birthdays and I envy those people in those ocassions. Don't worry we will celebrate one in the near future and we will happily be waiting for it.

I also know that you have many plans or many responsibilities or many worries that come with this achievement, let these take care of itself. (Like what I used to say to myself when we going through the same situation:"Everything will work out well. Everthing will eventually turn out good for us." And it has. And I am grateful for Him. And I'm thankful that everything's still turning good for us. Got to go Mass tomorrow. Mommy always tells you and your family's always in her prayers and now I believe her. Why don't you call her yourself? That would really make them happy. And hear the words:"Baby, that's a big surprise!" A wonderful one at that. I can only add:"It's a wonderful world." Afterall. Love you all!

The New Me

The me you saw last Halloween is the new me. After I have my face done by Dr. Vicky and Dr and Dra. Calayan! What do you think? Was it overdone? As they say:"Beauty is the eye of the beholder" Oops! I guess I'm having a bad dream again. Seriously, I would like to look like Boyet de Leon. But, what can I do. I like how I look like, now. At least at one time in my life--high school days--they said I look like Jay Ilagan!!! Funny, huh?

This Is My Halloween

After a week of tragic events in San Diego county, as I've seen for myself, the residents were not in the mood for a Halloween celebration. I cannot blame them. Many people have lost everything they own. They have lost happy memories, treasured belongings, a loved one or even a beloved pet. The furthest thing on their mind is to don a costume and have a party on October 31. To them the images of the raging and deathly fire is wildly scary enough to think of anything else. But, somehow life goes on for others, especially for those who were not directly affect by the fire.

Although we didn't have time to decorate our house, we did had candies for children who might come treat or tricking. Nette cooked corned beef spaghetti and garlic bread for our dinner. Not long before after sunset, there wasn't anybody walking through our front door, but, soon, there were a group of costumed small children who came with a parent and I happily gave them different kinds of chocolate candies. And they thanked me for being kind. Then, nobody came and we still had a lot of candies and after about 8 pm only, we knew no one else is coming anymore.

And this is time I took picture of how I looked like that night. Boo! Did I scare you? I would be if I were you. Don't worry I locked the front gate already. But, I see you next year with the theme song of "Phantom Of The Opera."

Now, our patio is party-ready. It's clean and enviromentally firendly again. Whether it's Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year's Day or even for good friends passing by our house tomorrow. Or specially for relatives coming for a long visit. You're always welcome. Be our guests. Relax your souls and bodies in entering our doors. We invite you.

...And Prties--Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and Others

I Have Seen...

If one song can describe what I've experienced in almost a week in our small paradise here in San Diego, my all-time favorite of James Taylor certainly is the best one. It's titled: "Fire And Rain":

I've seen fire and I've seen rain
Ive seen sunny days that I thought would never end
I've lonely time I could not find a friend
I won't make it another day.
But, I've always thought I'll see you again.

Just yesterday morning I know you were gone
And know when the cold wind blows
But, just look upon me Jesus to make it another day
Just this music coming down around this time now.
But, I've always know I'll see you all again.

Fire And Rain 2

This morning I woke up at 10 and this was what I saw outside our patio door. The patio was so dirty, the chairs are dirty and ashes all over--the covered garden set, the covered grill and the covered wheeled cart. And I know it was time to clean-up whether I like it or not. It must be done now, but, not the usual way--sweeping it and all. Ash dirt is better cleaned if hose down a little with water and swept with a broom and a dustpan and put in a garbage bag. I know it was going to be a messy job. So, I got my nose mask and a black Palos hat and started the task of cleaning from the top (trellis), to the tables and down to the floor.

And what do you know, it started to rain. Good! That made my job easier and cleaner. I dusted the surfaces and hosed down the patio and patio furnitures and front door and door mat and floor with water. After 2 hours I was done. Our ourside was a lot cleaner, it is still raining till now. I watered the flowers also and I had to take a picture of this rose. After that I was ready to eat lunch of crab torta, fried chicken and, of course, rice. It has been literally, fire and rain. Am I sounding like James Taylor. Well, I used to look like him when I was younger. Only, he's more balder than me. Yabang ano? Joke lang!

Fire And Rain

October 26, 2007; Friday:

Yesterday, our world here seems to be on fire, this morning looks like cold ice--a winter day, even, complete with fog and visibility was less than a mile. It was actually a marine layer, like you would see in San Francisco almost everyday. Less ash rain during the day and the afternoon was a lot colder. Funny things going around here these days. I was just glad it's TGIF (Thank God It's Friday) already. I went home looking forward to our chat and to Saturday a chance for me to clean up the mess the fire created around our house.

Carlsbad Sunrise

October 25, 2007; Thursday:

Yesterday, the fires were still burning, but, I was went to work and was busy cleaning up around our workplace the whole. I had to wear nose mask, though, while I'm outside for just don't want to feel the effect of ashes and debris raining, years from now. Nette stayed at home the whole day while northbound and southbound I-5 was closed. I told her to pack our valuables, some clothes and our van ready just in case. Nothing happened to us and the day passed while glued listening to the radio for updates.

This morning at about 7, this was how the sun look like and seems today wasn't going to be good. It's so strange the sun looks like this in Southern California. But, fortunately, it went without any more fires starting. Ash was still falling the temperature at the 88's in the afternoon. All conversations centered on the wildfires.

My Red Car's Turning Black

At about 9:30 a.m., this how my car looked like. You image may not show the white and black ash rain that have started collecting on it. But, it's already 1 p.m. and I'm sure I don't need the faded red color repainted caused it would turned in black by now. I'm sure you're not surprise, having experienced the Mt. Pinatubo eruption there. I'm still watching for more developments and I'll keep you informed. Pray for us and thanks to Christine Meneses for calling me from Houston this morning.

On my way back home at about 8:30 a.m., the sky suddenly turned slightly dark and was sun was like an orange moon in the morning. The wind was cold and there were ash rain already. It was so surreal, but, I know I was driving slowly down a city street. What's next?

Last night, we went to bed and pray that we would wake up next morning safe and out of danger inside our house. I pray also and hope for the best for those that were affected by the fires. One of them was Larry Himmel, a friendly long-time sports TV-Radio announcer for CBS Channel 8 who saw his house in Rancho Bernardo gutted to the ground for himself. And yet, he continued giving reports LIVE from his community. We were safe alright the next morning, 10-23-07 and we got ready to go to work. But this image was what I saw.

Ash rain has started overnight and as I drive until I got to my office. And the air was becoming unhealthly to breathe in and thank God I bought that nose mask! The cities and freeways look like a ghost towns. At 7:20 a.m., this would a rush hour traffic ride. Our dealership have no customers at the service department. The writers and the manager as I was changing into my uniform when they told me the store would be closed and we were to go home. Nobody would want to work, especially outside, in a atmosphere like this. Our lungs would collapse even if we wear masks the whole day.

My Mazda MPV (Most Pinoy Van) is ready to go.

And that's Gino trying to help by being a firefighter himself. As the night set in we didn't know what would happen for the next two that we have to endure. Ash rain wasn't visible set outside. And I still had time to trim and wet the grass and the flowers. I would go inside the house thinking what to do tomorrow or even this night. Watch TV all night or just trust God that we wake safe. But, the fires are not letting.

The whole day Nette and I did what the preparedness expert said on TV: To get these things ready: Important papers, valuables, radio, batteries, bottled water and some ready-to-eat food-just in case we have to evacuate Oceanside. And watch TV all day. Lucky for us, we didn't hear the announcement to do so. But, the fire continue to grow bigger because of the strong swirling Santa Ana winds in the mountains and was threatening to move west to the coast, where we live near. The Fallbrook fire got bigger and the sky became dark early at 5 pm and this was how it looked like. We were ready to move if needed. Nette has all her shoes, me with my portable PowerStation (jumper cable-tire inflator-lamp combination). And also Gino's laptop and silver watch. Hehehe.

Monday morning, we woke to the TV news that fires became 8 full blown firestorms spread along Ramona, Rancho Bernardo, Chula vista, near the Mexico border, Scripps Ranch, San Marcos and Fallbrook. And Fallbrook is the nearest to us, being 20 miles away only.

It was a work day, so, after I dropped off Gino at Ralph's, I passed by a nearby Lowe's Lumber and bought a 5-pack nose masks as I listened to my van's radio for the lastest news about the fire. The radio announcers and local officials were advising the people to stay home and off the road. Then, as I droved by Highway 76 west, I noticed the usually very light traffic at this 7 am morning was becoming heavier. I later learnt that the Interstate Highway 15 was closed from Freeway 78 up to Freeway 56 and motorists are taking 76 to I-5 North to downtown San Diego. After passing the Freeway 78 bridge, I decided to just drive back home after seeing several fire trucks from Los Angeles and that's when the traffic was started to back up. What more when noon and afternoon come, it would be a mess and I was right. After calling my office and calling Nette, who was still at home, I let them know I was heading home. Nette would later know hers too that she's not coming in.

By late Sunday evening as we were settling in for the night, watching the GMA's "Magpakailanman", the reversed 911 Emergency Notice sounded from the television, announcing mandatory evacuation from the whole of Ramona area This was what it looked like from that one single fire. At least six fires were raging around San Diego.

The Fire That Would Not Die

It started as a small fire in Santa Ysabel area, next to Julian, near the Pala Casino in northeast North County, to the east of I-15. That was Sunday afternoon at about noon, so, what I did, as I usually do, was just watch Pinoy TV's SOP and I was pretty much relaxed as there was nothing to do. And Nette had left that morning to go to work. This would change after she came home as we watched the local evening news.

As You Requested

I'm posting this to fulfill my promise to Mabelle. She said she missed the yummy burger and french fries that they make. Actually, two of the only four items they sell. But, over here In-N-Out is very popular, since it first started in Los Angeles. The same way McDonald's started in San Bernardino, California, next to L.A. County. It's always a treat eating in and mostly because it's just a mile walk from our house. When you come here, we'll eat there everyday. That's a deal.

Ready For Monday

Tonight I have prepared my lunch and break foods. I'll have Mesquite Chicken with vegetables for lunch and Boiled Egg With Mayo for my snack. I've put my spoon and fork in my lunch bag, checked the oil, washer fluid, coolant and tire and tire pressure in my van. Having vaccuumed the vehicle's seats and carpets and detailed the inside, I feel better knowing that I'm prepared to face the real work this Monday again. Also, I've taken care of the lawn and cleaned the garage--taking out the 2 bikes we're giving Nette's Mom together with the two heater I've retrieved from the attic. And just before I posted this, I've written checks for the neverending bills that we pay everyday.

As you see, every Sunday I have done this routine for many, many years to make sure I'm ready for Monday and the week ahead. It's not that hard. It only takes discipline and taking on what has to be done to be a responsible man. And I have to say that we've done a good job. I may have problems and times hard times, but, with prayers and faith in God, we did fine. And I'm thankful for that.

If you think you have a lot of problems, don't worry about it, pray for ways to solve them. And think that you're not alone. And feel better tonight that your Monday will be alright that when Friday comes, you'll be happily be looking forward to Saturday and on Sunday will just be a doable day again.

Sa akin kasing palagay, kung mayroon akong kailangan gawin. Ito'y dapat nang gawin ngayon, kasi kung hindi ko ito gagawin ngayon baka hindi ko na nagawa bukas. Kailangan lamang tayong mag-pursige. Huwag mawawalan ng lakas ng loob. Ako'y naririto.

Naghihingalo Na

Ngayong araw ako'y nalulungkot ako sa mga nangyari sa akin. Dahil ako'y naging masyadong abala sa aking trabaho, nakapunta lang ako para ipasuri ang problema matapos akong makapananghalian. Hindi na nga ako masyadong nakakain dahil gusto ko nang malaman kung malulunasan pa ang mga simtomas na lumalabas. Pagkain ng chili con small hotdog, dali-dali akong lumabas ng opisina at tuloy-tuloy sa aking kotse. Kinabahan ako ng sumakay ako sa ito-- madalas itong nangyayari--sapagka't ako'y nag-aalala baka hindi umandar, lalo na't napakainit sa labas. Sa awa ng Diyos, isang pihit ko lang ng susi at umarangkada na ang aking Accord.

Ewan ko ba kung bakit pa ako nagmamadali ay napakaraming mga istorbo sa daan--mga ciudad empleyado na nagkukumpuni ng mga lubak-lubak sa daan, mga kotse na akala mo'y may patay at mga maraming mga pulang ilaw sa kanto. Nakadagdag pa aking inis ng ako ay maligaw dahil sa direksiyon na ibinigay ng aking naka-usap sa telepono. Imbis, ako ay napunta sa building na tabi ng tindahan ng karne, yun pala ang gusali na aking hinahanap ay malapit sa gasolinahan. Ay naku! Kung kelan pa ako nagmamadali. Mabuti at ako'y nakakita ng espasyo na pagparada kaagad. Sinusuerta pa ako--sa isip ko.

Nguni't pagpasok ko sa pinto nila wala akong nakausap kaagad kasi ang mama sa counter ay nasa telepono. Iminuestro na lamang sa akin na pumunta ako sa susunod na lamesa na di kalayuan. Matapos na siya at lumapit sa akin at tinanong ako: "Ano ba ang problema?" Sinunod ko siya at binuksan ko na at ipikita ko sa kanya. Sabi niya marami na siyang nakitang mga ganitong problema. Hindi lang ako. Mabuti pa raw na palitan na lang kesa sa buksan pa. Magagastusan pa ako ng malaki. Sabi ko sa sarili ko: Mabuti pa nga yata kasi malaki na ang simtomas. Naghihingalo na ito. Hindi magtatagal pa at ganoon rin ang resulta. Lalo akong sobrang namighati at muntik nang maiyak. Gusto ko na sanang umalis na lang sa aking pagkatalo. Umalis akong malungkot dahil wala na akong magagawa pa. Siyanga pala--ako ay palabas ng Laptop Plus.

Isang Pagbabago

I have been posting entries in Englsih so I will be understood by all. Now, I don't know if I'm really doing that. So, in my future posts, I'll be writing it in Filipino (with some translations). Some maybe lost in translation, but, I'll try to make myself clear. This way I'll be able to teach and reach others who are more comfortable in reading in their native Tagalog. So, watch for my next entry. Sabi nga nila: Abangan ang susunod na kabanata! Wait for the next chapter. Mabalos! Give my regards to your family!

A Day In History

September 21, 1972, a infamous date in Philippine history when President Ferdinand Marcos declared martial law so he can remain in power. Infamous cause it started the decline of the quality of life of most Filipinos. Before Marcos, the Philippines was on the way to prosperity under President Diosdado Macapagal, father of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the present Prez. Martial law resulted in many problems that is felt even up to now.

I was four month out of high school and have been admitted at the University of Santo Tomas. I was eager to learn more at a higher level and was beginning to know other people such as my new found classmates, especially of the opposite sex and teachers that would guide me later on with my studies. I remember watching on television the Liberal Party Convention at Plaza Miranda in Quiapo, Manila. And as the politicians spoke, a bomb exploded and confusion and carnage folowed. And later that night, Marcos issued the suspension of writ of habeas corpus and Martial Law folowed. The next day there soldiers roaming the whole of Metro Manila in search of Marcos oppositions. And things became scary that all of us stayed away of the streets and later on, also, a curfew was enforced. And this experience made Filipino wary and afraid of policemen and soldiers and the notorious METROCOM.

I was thinking, how can this be happening. I just graduated and was full of life and eagerness to finally better my life. What will the coming years be under this sad condition of supression and corruption of the illegal administration. Life continued everyday as people went along with Marcos. There were some improvements, but, ultimately, the changes were cosmetics and the people were tired of what they've seen and acted to free themselves that led to the famous People Power in 1986. And that's another story.

As this date come every year, it is not celebrated, but, on the other hand remembered. Remember those who died, those hundreds who disappeared and are still not known what happened to them. More importantly, it's a day to remind us to be vigilant of our freedom and democracy, of someone who would just take advantage of us for their own evil intentions. And in the end, good will triumph over evil.

The Rich Have Hills

This is one of the many beautiful views found in what can be considered what started as a small hamlet called Rancho Santa Fe in San Diego county. Now, it's the most expensive address in the U.S. For a while there I could hear Maria (hope it was my sister) singing "The hills are alive with the sound of music." I always love driving by these roads, very excited what beautiful and big houses will appear on each turns. One beating the next in size and vast expanse of their lands. I'll even give you a free sightseeing tour of these area. It will always be a delight to show you this place.

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.