The Blog

Everyday...I Am Thankful

2010-02-25T14:31:00.000-08:00

Every night before I sleep,
I say my prayers and give thanks.

In the morning when I wake up,
I clasp my hands and thank God.

I thank God for giving me another day, to live it with meaning and reason.

I thank God for my parents, My Mom Flora and Dad Irving, They are the most gracious, generous loving parents and wouldn't trade them for anything in the world.

I thank God for my Brother Gil and Sisters Imelda & Monet,
they have showed me over and again, that
blood is thicker than water.
Thank you for always being there for me.

I thank God for Dickie,
through the years he has always been there for me.
I pray every night, every day,
that He bless him and heal him...Please pray for him too.

I thank God for my family and friends,
(You know who you are)
they complete me and keeps me grounded,
I thank them all for life's simple joys and comfort
that they bring me everyday.

I thank God for my pets (Patrick, Bertram, Paris & Pepito)
though they are far from me at the moment
they give me joy and little smiles
everyday.

I thank God for my boss,
He is a wonderful example of
generosity, compassion and kindness.

I thank God for my job,
though it is stressful, I am thankful
to have one.

I thank God for the people who test my patience,
because of them I can practice being kind
and self control.

I thank God for all of the blessings
that comes my way...

...I am thankful everyday
for all these blessings that come my way,
eventhough there are struggles and pain,
burdens and heart aches...

..I am GRATEFUL for the gifts
that most of us seem to take for granted.
If we don't share the love now,
when will you make it happen?

Literacy

2008-01-13T11:29:00.000-08:00

As some of you may know (or not) I love books, I collect hardbound books and treasure my books. Reading is one of the many things that make your braincells function so that it won't short circuit and hopelessly dive into oblivion.

In recent months (years too) several literary pieces (such as; Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, His Dark Materials - The Goden Compass(I) by Philip Pullman and etc.) are being scrutinized by Fundamentalist Christians, some books are said to have rubbed their belief the wrong way and is now trying to do everything they can to ban and yank some beautifully crafted literary pieces in our public libraries!

I have a BIG problem with this kind of attitude especially if a child is interested in opening his or her mind to the adventures that a book can definitely give them. The political correctness this days is not just frustrating but also undermines an individual's intelligence and ability to decide which and what not to read...

...I guess my question is "What the hell happened to Free will?"

As far as I know and as for someone who have studied some Theology in college, free will is God's gift to man, "To be able to choose, decipher, decide & pick what is right and what is wrong" WITHOUT anyone dictating and shoving their OWN opinions down your throat.

Aren't Christians suppose to know that? Do these Fundamentalist know how demeaning it is for them to tell me what I could read and what I can't? What gives them the right? Do they really think that people are that stupid to have no sense to know what is wrong and what is right? Whatever the F*** their reason's are, IT IS definitely not the Christian way or in any means a part of the Christian teachings.

America used to be the best in everything! - Education, Science and Technology & Leadership but now, I am not sure anymore...

...with so much political bullcrap going on and fundamentalist religious people trying to hammer down THEIR OWN opinions down our skulls... I just don't know anymore. Never-Ever mix Politics & Religion...NEVER. Like oil and water, they just don't blend well together.

Freedom is what made this country and I am almost certain that the abuse of this freedom will kill it too.

NOW...

...People are complaining and whining about the literacy problem in this country - already in 5th grade and still can't read...hmmmn?...

...WELL ...

...Blame it all in these religious political BULL CRAP! - The truth is, Children loves to read and will read if they find something that amuse their brains and imagination BUT sadly their interest in reading are halted because certain GROUPS doesn't agree with some author's opinion and point of views - If a child is interested in reading literary pieces LET THEM! dammit!

If you are a responsible Christian parent and raised your child properly "I believe in my soul and with all my heart" that your Children will be able to decipher what is good and what is wrong, kid's are a lot more smarter than what adults give them credit for.

Again, I rest my case, frustrated and annoyed...

...I'll just sit here in our living room and read my book, find solace, comfort and peace.

Challa Bread

2007-12-01T15:25:00.000-08:00

Winter is here! ...and...
...being stuck in the house is one of the many things
that comes along with it,Yes oh Yes...Yes indeedee! BUT
A little snow here and there is not too bad, I love winter,
I sometimes wish that after all the leaves have fallen down to meet
the grass I really wish that It would just snow instantly, like
flipping a light switch...I HATE the fall rains and having 4 dogs
doesn't really help in keeping the house clean -
Thank God for the invention of the mop.

ANYWAY...Back to the subject

As some of you may know, I got this new toy
I really like it - a lot. I bought myself a nice
William Sonoma baking book and attempted a sweet braided bread
called the "Challa" - someone told me that it's the same as
an easter bread.

Anyway - It was a success!
Just look at that picture of deliciousness :o)

Yumm!

2008 Pembroke Welsh Corgi Calendar

2007-10-30T16:25:00.000-07:00

Click here to order:

2008 Pembroke Welsh Corgi Calendar
Order Yours Now!

$20.00
+$5.25 S&H USPS Priority Mail
I accept VISA/MC/AMEX/DISCOVER
or Checks via snail mail.

NOTE: PLEASE CONTACT ME IF ORDERING MULTIPLE CALENDAR

www.sleepylanecorgis.com

THANK YOU!

My new toy :o)

2007-10-26T12:30:00.000-07:00

Today I made my very first French Bread using my newest toy,

A KitchenAid Professional 5 series - Multi-purpose mixer :o)

I can't say anyting bad about it, it has all the attachments, tools and recipe book to help you get going with your culinary/pastry making project! Compared to my old Krups which can only make batter's and mix ingredients, this guy can even knead dough, slice vegetables & grind meat - very versatile!

Love the color as well-sort of eclectic for a country home, I guess it really does say something about the owner...ha ha

Anyway, I wish I could share this yummy loaf of bread with you'all - seriously this is one yummy French Bread - Fresh out of the oven...hmmmmmn!

Bon Appetit!

DEFROSTED & HUNGRY... not that bad

2007-10-19T23:54:00.000-07:00

Finally I'm defrosted!...I tried to freeze myself to stop the aging process but apparently It Doesn't work...I'm thawed and now very cold...lol,

That explains the picture - after seventeen days, I'm very hungry...ha ha, kidding aside...

...It's been seventeen days since I celebrated my 30th, I had a good time to say the least.

Having said that, I guess I have come into terms that being thirty is not as bad as thought It would be, not that I thought it's the end of the world, but as some of you may know, there comes a point in your life where you question everything and WORRY too much about what lies ahead, talk about expect the unexpected flushed in the toilet...lol...

...anyway

We were jabbering away on the phone the other day (My good friend Ruby & I) and the topic of aging and maturity was somehow brought to the table...

...I suppose (for some) maturity really comes with age...REALLY?!...lol, It fascinates me how much I've changed (OK, maybe not so much) specifically about the superficiality that is somehow like an enigma attached to the teen years & early twenties (Is it a racial or ethnicity thing or just upbringing? - I have my opinion BUT I'll let you decide and think about it yourself)...

... For example, when we were in our teens (I am seriously not kidding) especially in High School, most of us could care less about corrupt politicians or global warming, we have our opinions but we don't get too involved, most of the time we worry about the superficial stuff such as signature or designer things - For example; Chanel, Calvin Klein, Giordano, Swatch, Mendrez, Bench, Boy London, United Colours of Benetton, Aspen, Polo Ralph Lauren, YSL & etc. - there may even be a question about your clothes, "where it's made or whether it's an original" ...It's ridiculous but it did happen!

HOWEVER, those were the days when you can't really blame "us", "YUPPiNESS" was a big part of our society *hint*, It is like your pass to belong in that certain age group as well as to have a sense of belongingness and not feel excluded...

...Anyway

These days, I'm your typical blue jeans & t-shirt kind-o-guy, I shop at Target, Wal-Mart, Kohl's, K-Mart and sometimes even in our local goodwill - yes I do. I guess for me, it became more about my comfort level , If I'm comfortable with what I'm wearing whether it's from a designer shop or a thrift store - I'll wear it, don't get me wrong, I still do my occasional "designer splurge" however I can honestly say now that those designer brands "doesn't really matter"(or maybe a little) BUT It is more about me being comfortable of what I'm wearing and being comfortable about myself.

Anyway, I guess maturity really comes with age!(again, for some...lol), Now, All I have to do is stay healthy and most of all...

...become rich and famous...ha ha!

The Hamburger

2007-09-04T18:55:00.001-07:00

Today was a busy day, after having my bowl of cheerios, coffee & a 1/2 of cantaloupe this morning, we left to pick-up our new dinning table set from a liquidating store.

After a couple of trips...

...we were hungry, so we decided to do some serious homemade hamburger and it sure was a treat!

We grilled a couple patties on the BBQ, sliced up a nice and juicy tomato, picked some basil leaves, prepared the condiments and took the hamburger pickles out of the refrigerator, I decided to stray away from the traditional crunch of sliced sweet onion, Instead I sliced a nice Walla Walla Sweet onion into rings, sauteed it in the pan with a drizzle of olive oil until it started to caramelize then I added a dash of Worcestershire sauce and a teaspoon of brown sugar for a sweet and savory finish...

...Yummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm-O

The Hamburger was a hit, almost too much for a normal human being to eat but the flavor was "muy excellente" , I don't want my pickle chips in the burger so I had mine on the side, it was a nice lunch and definitely a nice treat after hauling all the furniture's back and forth the barn ( yes we do have a barn...lol)

anyway, that's all for today....and as for my countdown...

...30 more days to go!

The Corgi Fairy...

2007-08-30T12:19:00.000-07:00

This blog is for the precious Lady George...

We wish her the best and praying for her quick recovery,

we're sending you the corgi fairy to look over you especially when

your Mommy, Daddy & sister Mimi are not around...

...on a lighter note...34 days to go :o)

The Countdown begins...

2007-08-29T16:06:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that August is already packing it's bag getting ready to bid us farewell...last thing you know, we have snow on the ground!,

Around here in the woods, the turkeys seems to know that their time of judgement and of horror is just around the corner, like miniature Velosa Raptors (with useless wings), those herd of big fat turkeys noisily graze our pasture but magically disappears when a human being comes a little too close for comfort...turkeys!

The Gladiolas, Mums & Asters are all ready if not in bloom I predict that within a week or two, all those vigorous plants will delightfully show-off their vibrant colors.

Gladiolas, Mums & Aster = Fall!

This brings me to my countdown...sighhhhhhh!

35 days from now, I have to say goodbye to a very special friend that

I have known for ten good years...

..."The Twenties"...

...35 days from now, I will be...

...leaving 29...

...barely in the number of days in the calendar

...leaving "TW" and switching to "TH"...

...will be 29+1...

... thirty years old... (still not sinking in!...lol)

...I surely enjoyed my twenties, I mean- REALLY REALLY enjoyed it(and going to enjoy it to the last minute!), I learned that as a person mature, you seem to appreciate life more, all the good & the bad, all the lessons you have learned, all the procrastinations that you told yourself you were going to do (some 6 years ago...lol), everything counts, now more than ever I think of how my future will be, what to do, where to be, savings and contingency plans (just in case).

I know that it sounds a bit crazy to be dreading turning 30 but you know, it's just one of those things in life that as you move to a new chapter (or a new digit) you kinda look back and tell yourself...I love that part of my life, it's fun, it's adventurous, it's exciting!..

...looking at the bright side of it, now is the time to make the most of what I've learned and experienced during the happy "twenties" now is the time to move on to a different chapter, maybe slightly different endeavors...yes the twenties is fun, it's exciting, it's full of adventure I'm going to miss it but as I move on to this new chapter of my life, It's time to make new exciting stories, new experiences and most of all, learn a lot more of life's lessons that only time can teach us...

...As much as I enjoyed my twenties, I am ready to move forward and face the...th..th...thir...thirrrr...thirrrtttiesss...lol

Who knows, I'll probably have as much fun (or maybe more) in this new chapter!

...35 days to go!

MEME

2007-08-21T09:10:00.000-07:00

How do you pronounce this?...is it like the fashion shop BEBE pronounced as (bee-bee)?, or is it like Meme like - "Mae-Mae" or like Mimi the corgi?

anyway, I got tagged I'm sorta-kinda-dreading it since I have such a long middle name/full initial , anyway here it goes...lol

1. You have to post these rules before you give the facts.

2. You must list one fact that is somehow relevant to your life for each letter of your middle name. If you don’t have a middle name, use the middle name you would have liked to have had.

3. At the end of your blog post, you need to choose one person for each letter of your middle name to tag.

aight, my middle name is Del Rosario (FYI catholic blog buddies : Rosario means Rosary in Spanish) I want to use my Mom or Dad's middle names but likewise, they're long Spanish words.

here we go;

D - Digital Photographer - I love taking photographs, I think it's something that most of us take for granted. A photograph is a second or minute of your life captured on a piece of paper or in my case in a tinie-tiny little xD disk.

E- eclectic -I easily get bored, my brain needs to be entertained often either by colors, interesting location & subject, reading materials or something unusually unique. I sometimes find the yuppie within me prancing around especially when I'm in an art gallery or "Techie" store.(such as - Apple Store, Camera store & Sharper Image)

L- Love's life - Life has thrown a lot of good and not so good things at me but as I grow older, I learn to appreciate a lot of the things & experience that has come my way. Like what I always tell my friends, "Life without adventure is like life lived in a box" We only have one shot in this world( I wonder If Kittie's really do have nine lives?) so why not make the most out of this once in a lifetime opportunity.

R - Road tripper - I like doing road trips even with the price of gas this days, driving long distance is tiring-yes it is BUT the things, views, places and people you'll meet along the way is an experience that makes the whole trip well-worth it ( Ok...stupid drivers kinda spoils it occasionally)

O- Open-minded - why not? by keeping an open mind you'll be able to practice tolerance, patience and acceptance - HATE is the off-spring of a narrow minded person.

S- sweet - I've been told that I'm a sweet person ...lol, I just hope the ants don't go after me

A - Artistic - I love art because it reveals emotion and expressions.

R- Reality show nut - YES - I am guilty...lol - Top Chef, Amazing Race and MORE!...lol

I like reality shows that showcase talent, creativity and quick thinking, It is very interesting to see them function especially with a time frame to follow...

I- Inquisitive - It is never a bad thing to ask questions or read about about a particular object or investigate something. It keeps your brain cells working!....lol

O- Oh My God - my first three words when I saw our first litter of Corgis being born - it is a wonderful day!

Don’t forget to leave a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

New rule:

Tasty things you like to eat using 1st letter:

D - Dumplings, Donuts...lol

E - "Edamame" - steamed Japanese soy beans, Eggplant ( prepared Japanese style), Eggs ( scrambled, boiled, poached), energy bars ( Myoplex particularly)

L - "Lumpia"-It is an authentic Filipino vegetable spring roll, Lamb (prepared correctly), Legumes

R- Roasted Chicken, Beef, Pork, Duck, Nuts, Raspberry Jam

O-Oatmeal Cookies, Octopus, orange, Olive Garden...lol

S - STARBUCKS :o), Steak!!!, Salisbury Steak, Shellfish, Sashimi, Sushi, Stew ( Beef, Chicken), Salad (Macaroni, Pasta, Chicken), Saffron Rice with Manila Clams and Mussels, grilled Scallops wrapped in bacon, Soup #11 & Spam...lol

A- Authentic Vietnamese soups, antipasti, All of the above

R - Real home made Ice Cream!, Rice pilaf (I was told that I have a killer fried-rice recipe...lol)

I - ICE CREAM!!!, Italian food, Indian Food - Beef & Chicken curry!, "Il Cafe" -coffee

O - more cOOkies.., Ok, enough, I'm getting hungry...lol

Glory Dee, if you're reading this - TAG you're it...he he he

Here we go again...

2007-08-19T14:57:00.000-07:00

This morning while having my cup of coffee, I decided to read the reader's section of the newspaper. As usual the typical political views and annoying local government F**k-ups are expressed by the local newspaper subscribers. Browsing through the whole page of the paper, one particular issue caught my attention...

...Responsible Pet Ownership, this issue has always been a topic that I am very much interested about, don't get me wrong, I am not an animal activist at all nor have any desire to be one. The lady expressed her frustration with the stupidity of some pet owners and their audacity to whine and complain about some neighbors trying to catch their wandering kitty or dog then surrendered to the local humane society...

First and foremost, when you decide to add a new family member to your home, you better make sure to realize that you are adding not just a pet but most of all a RESPONSIBILITY for this new addition. Most people are often caught in the excitement of having an adorable dog or kitty to their new home but later regret the responsibility that comes along with it, it is almost like an obsession to get the cute pet like buying a brand new handbag then later left alone and neglected, the poor creature...hmmm...

...If I am not mistaken last I heard, dogs are not handbags and you cannot just buy one and keep it in your closet.

Second and this is absolutely one of the most annoying and frustrating for me...Responsibility doesn't end at home!!! When you decide to take your dog for a long walk in the park or at the trail...PICK UP AFTER YOUR DOG!!! Trails and Parks are not doggie toilets and there is absolutely no excuse for leaving your dog poops on the trail unless of course you're just a lame-lazy-stupid pet owner, Walking your dog is a good exercise not just for your pet but also for you, why not double the effort and try to stretch your back and reach for your pets poop and not leave it for somebody else's shoe! This is basically the same reason why a lot of our nice parks and trails doesn't allow dogs anymore, It is a shame and lack of respect for other responsible pet owners. Parks and trails are made for everyones enjoyment, please be responsible.

Lately there has been a lot of buzz about breed specific legislation, this means banning a certain breed of pet in a community. I have always believed that there is no such thing as a bad dog only STUPID owners, from the moment that you bring that dog into your life, it is a commitment. Love it, Discipline it most of all TRAIN IT!...if you cannot do any of this, just buy a stuffed-toy doggie in the store, I guarantee you that you are doing a good thing for every responsible pet owner.

Our shelters are getting crowded day by day, Cats & dogs are being bred unscrupulously and irresponsibly by people who think that breeding is a profitable business - If you are a responsible dog or cat breeder, you know that it is not!, most of the time, your loss is more than what you'll gain. If you are a puppymiller who couldn't careless about the quality of dogs that you sell out in the public- then probably you'll gain some money, but to sell an unhealthy dog to someone is something that will eat my conscience through out that dogs life not to mention the heartache and vet bills that you will give that unfortunate family.

If you're thinking of getting a pet, please weigh your options and really think about it before committing to getting one - It is a life long commitment, don't let the cuteness of those pups shadow your logical thinking, unless you are really ready to get one, unless you are certain that you can responsibly take care of one, unless you realize the commitment that comes along with it, then probably you should hold-off before adding a new "living creature" into your life.

P.S.: If you want to support the shelters, donate to your local humane society, don't waste your money to the HSUS, ( Humane Society of the United States) mind you the HSUS people are seating their ass comfortably in a (probably) multi-million dollar leased bulding in NYC, the saddest thing though is they only spend a small percentage of this donations towards the protection of animals...hmmmnn...they probably should stop sending those address label stickers, calendars and umbrellas and just use the money for what it is meant for...darn'it!...

Here are some links that tells about the millions of dollars donated by unsuspecting people to the HSUS, It is easy to get carried away with their propaganda's especially if there is a poor little dog and a sad sad story about him.

http://btoellner.typepad.com/kcdogblog/corrupt_politics/index.html

http://talk.rgj.com/viewtopic.php?t=37505

2007-08-17T12:42:00.000-07:00

Okay, it is now the 17th and no new blog. Neil! Get on over here and give us a blog. And where is what's er name, Goldie-dee, Laurel-lee, you know? I have not heard a thing from your teacher buddy way over yonder on that island.

So, I see there is much to do with Corgi shows and politics. Tsk tsk...the girls are lounging and just rolled their eyes at the mention. Do the other owners get huffy and judges snooty? I hear that these things can and do happen. It sounds so much like admin. at my school district. Maybe they are one and the same, do you think? (gasp-hand over mouth)

Well, are we all going kayaking next weekend? You must let us know--we are slow and old and decrepit...and forget easily these days. So give us notice, gracias.

We are painting this weekend. I don't want to---but it must be so.

Neil....

2007-08-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Neil:
Where are you???? Tacoma, at your Corgi show?

I am stepping in from across the prairie here. What you guys up to? I am home with a tummy ache...sniff sniff...and and the girls are sacked out and and I can't eat a thing., sniff sniff.

So up here in the land of I-dunno, we have had cooler weather and I am much pleased with this. In fact so pleased I actually got outside yesterday and did some weeding and barking. Woof woof...gotcha! Okay it wasn't that funny everybody. Anyway, I put down some fresh bark and got Hubby He Man to get the lawn rig out and make crop circles. It was then we BBQ'd some pork mojo and I think I over did it with the garlic and jalapenos this time. I woke up with a horrendous tummy ache...you know the kind; you're not sure if you should stick around and wait and see where this thing is going...like will I be running promptly to the reading room? So, here I am stuck inside on a gorgeous cool summer day and bored as all get up. I can't believe I just said that because I go back to work on the 29th and counting every precious day at home. So it must be a tummy-ache thing, you know?

I took some quizzes on the internet like a science quiz, are you smarter than a 12 year old quiz....how ugly are you, and I failed miserably. I am now the ugliest and stupidest old lady in the northern panhandle. Not only do I have a tummy ache, I have a headache, so I going to plop my ugly rear end down on the sofa and see if I can remember how to read.

Since I can't remember when you said you were going to the Corgi show, I am going to guess, like on the quizzes, that you are not home and out of town??? Did I pass?

So now you have a new updated posting for your blog. Have a nice day,

The Ugly Stupid Secretary.

Thank You

2007-07-31T13:47:00.000-07:00

I have always believed that even though a deed is as small as a dime, we should never forget to say thanks. Life comes at you and me quite fast, often times because of our hectic schedules, simple but important things tend to be taken for granted.

A couple days ago my good friend Jo & his wife left for Colorado, it was a sad day but they have to move on and take the road they have chosen to start a family. If there are two words that I will always treasure during our conversation, it would be...THANK YOU

"Thank you for your trust, trust is not something you can get just anywhere but it is something that you have to earn."

"Thank you for respect, in order to be respected, one must know how to respect not just another person but also himself."

"Most of all Thank you for your friendship, to open oneself to a total complete stranger is a virtue set on courage, tolerance and acceptance"

Having acquaintances is a good thing but having good friends is not just good to the ear but a comfort for the soul...and I am thankful to have found such many good friends they are God's special angels, they might not have wings but they make your spirits high.

Thank You, such simple words but undeniably have such a great meaning.

Thank You, Salamat, Gracias, Grazie Mille, Domo Arigato Gozaimasu, Danke, Merci, Shei-Shei

May come in any form or language but if it comes from the heart, it is a universal language understood by the soul.

To all my friends, acquaintance and people who have inspired me...,

...THANK YOU

Sitter for a day...or two

2007-07-21T15:39:00.000-07:00

Friday Morning 9:00 a.m. -

Ring, Ring, Ring, Ring, My cellphone is crying out loud calling me...
...it stopped ringing...
...Then it made a couple beeps telling me that someone has left a message.

To make the long story short, the message is from my friend Teresa asking if I could pick-up a couple corgis arriving from Alaska and babysit for the weekend.

...who?!... me?!...babysit dogs?!...

...SURE!!! Our home is always open to good doggies :o)

Saturday morning

I left home around 8:00 a.m., went to AK Airlines Cargo Dept.

" Are you Neil?" asked the clerk," I said "no, I'm Johnny...just kidding...lol, Yes I'm Neil", "I have two cute dogs for you"...got the dogs, loaded them in the truck and drove home.

Aside from my 4 beautiful babies at home, I now have six(at least for the weekend), the best consolation though, is that these guys are very well behaved, everybody is just getting along really well and ran their hearts-out in the yard, so now, I have 6 dogs who are pooped and sleeping.

The best way to babysit corgis...sit under the maple tree and write your blog :o)

P.S.: Having three intact Male show dogs in the house "Priceless", It is a show to behold, A Pee'ing-Marking Extravaganza!...Oh my poor boxwoods!

I bought a lemon

2007-07-20T19:59:00.000-07:00

Sunday:

It was a blistering sunny Sunday, The temperature is up to the nineties, I walked towards the main street to get our mail in our rural mailbox cluster, I know that Sunday is a no mail day, but since I didn't get the mail yesterday (busy preparing for a party here at home) I am just now going to check the surprises in store for me in the mailbox.

Being the curious person as I always have been, I cannot wait till I get home to browse through our mail; junk, junk, junk, catalog, junk, junk, catalog, "Car Auction Sale! Hurry!, Hurry!, while supplies last!"...hmmmm, that caught my attention.

As much as I hate to admit it, my Old Ford Explorer is in its last leg, I have been really really good to it, The first year I bought it, it had a whole make-over, New paint job, Sway-bars, Fender trims, Deflectors, Sound system, I mean the whole creature comfort enchilada, Maintenance is always in check however as nice as it is to look at and with all the additional accessories I added to it, My old '91's internal organs are dying; leaking power steering fluid, a/c blower is shot, aggravating noise especially on the freeway, doors, seats and quite a few more on the list...sigghhhh.

A couple days later...

...Here I am sitting at a Hyundai Car Dealership Office, " How can I help you today Sir?" asked the nice gentleman (Car salesmen are generally nice AND persistent). " I am looking to replace my Ford Explorer, something more up to date", "I got a flyer from the mail last Saturday that you are having an Auction/Used Car Sale today" and the story goes on and on, my Explorer got traded in for a reasonable amount (seriously I almost got teary letting "Ole Fordie" go) but to make the long story short...I bought a Fire Engine Red 2000 Oldsmobile Bravada.

Oldsmobile Bravada's are considered luxury SUV's, it is a step above Chevrolet Trail blazers and GM Jimmy, It ranks the same as a Buick with Cadillac as the next step above it.

The Interior is in Excellent condition, Good A/C, All Power ( Seats, Window, etc.),Auto Trans., and very well detailed. It has all the creature comfort that I could really enjoy and I think the thing that I will like the most is that, there is very little road noise inside when I'm on the road.

Ok, after the negotiations and so many $$$$$$, we finally agreed on a price that meets my budget, this baby is paid in full (ouchhh, my pocket hurts so bad)...It's time to bring the latest addition home.

The following day...

...After running around town for a while, buying groceries and stuff, I felt confident and happy driving this Bravada, it rides and handles really well and again being redundant - there is less road noise, I looked at the fuel gauge to see how much fuel I have left, The fuel gauge says "full", In my mind I thought "Cool, this car is very fuel efficient" thinking about it now, The day I took it out of the dealers lot, the fuel was also full...hmmmnn... After a few more stops, I decided to come home, I was happy and just enjoying my new ride and then it happened...

...The Bravada just stopped...

...What the heck?!, the fuel gauge says full - then half a tank, then zero, then full again...now this is scary, Used car guarantees are different from a brand new car guarantee - based on my research, Idaho Law only protects NEW cars from cases such as this...so...this is a bit scary for me especially after shelling out thousands of dollars for this SUV.

...After messing around with it, I realized that my fuel gauge is broken, with the pointer pointed to full, I kinda have this notion that I'm ok and of course that the fuel is full but unfortunately that was not the case, I called the dealer yesterday and told them what happened...

..."I had to be rescued today, the Bravada just stopped, the fuel gauge has gone cookoo" anyway, They took the car to be serviced and repaired and they called me today asking " Oh, the car's fuel gauge will cost $600.00, are you willing to split the fee?" Ok, I was frustrated and infuriated so I just let this guy have it, I told him "You know what, I don't want to pay another $600 for something that you guys could have prevented, I bought this car with the thought that it is in decent shape and for you to ask me this amount of money is just ridiculous.., I think I'll just get my Explorer back, will that be Ok?!?!?!" he replied "Ahh...let me talk to my boss", the boss called me back and said that he'll take care of everything.

Obviously they don't wanna lose business and I am not one of those guys who will simply keep their mouth shut if treated unfairly, I will report their ass to the BBB.

Sigghhhh...Now I am worried, I traded in my Explorer hoping to get a decent, good-looking, nice SUV, after spending so much money...I am afraid that I might have bought a lemon...Oh gosh, I hope not!

Good Eggs Bad Eggs

2007-05-16T16:37:00.000-07:00

Often times we tend to ignore the little "good" things that our friend, neighbor or even a complete stranger does for us, I guess these days, We live in a society of very presumptuous people who think that unless a deed is of such great magnitude then it doesn't need some recognition...

...Yesterday, as I was happily browsing Costco's enormous grocery aisle (a major wholesale store - it has every s**t possible and available to mankind) going in there is not just a feast to my eyes but also an entertainment to my weird goofy brain, Primarily because of the things that people would buy but honestly doesn't really need (but why should I complain, it's their money not mine)

ANYWAY...I was happily picking out the stuff that "I need" aisle by aisle, corner by corner, I probably enjoyed shopping that much to not notice that my cell phone was GONE!!! (Dag nabbit!!!)

Unlike some people I know...I didn't panick and freak out BUT like most normal people that I know, the first thing I thought about was the last place I've been - re-trace...hmmmm...good question....I know I was just at Costco BUT was my cell phone still with me when I entered Costco?, I remember no phone calls so the next place would be the Gas station, then Starbucks, then Safeway( VONS), then the bank, then the dog park, Walgreens, then the Cemetery( kidding ) and so on and so on...It's infuriating when you just run out ideas or simply can't remember some tiny little details that could possible solve a simple dilemma...signs of aging?...urgh...I hope not

Then the light bulb went on...(idea!)

I dialed my cellphone number and called myself! ( I mean my phone ) the funny, odd and weird thing was, when someone picked up the on the other end, the first thing I said was...."Hey, Do you have my phone? " Now I kinda have this little voice in my head saying.......Duh.............obviously yeah, you just dialed your number didn't you?...eestupeed"...lol
Anyway, this nice little old lady said, "yes" she found my cell phone at Costco's parking lot ( I'm surprised that it was still in one piece - Thank you Lord, Buddha, Allah, Lord of the rings for keeping my cell phone out of harms way!) and then she arranged a time and a place where we could meet at the Hospital ( no, she's not sick or slowly fading away on the face of the earth,...She works there.)

Anyhow...I got my cell phone back and It got me thinking, thankful and made me believe again that although our world is now being populated by idiots, morons and self-centered hypocritical & stereotypical yuppies, amidst these minions of the evil King Kuppa, I am happy to say that there's still quite a few good ones out there, a few good ones in a basket of rotten eggs.
Thanks little ol' lady I hope there's more eggs like you out there.

If you think this post was weird then too bad.... you just read the whole thing, lol....hope you learned something though or you just might as well jump in the basket of rotten eggs...lol

ANYWAY.............................

Where are we going to move?

2007-03-07T16:59:00.000-08:00

The issues of Global Warming has taken a lot of heat not only from the minute "political" scientific community but also from political bureaucrat's who think they know everything. ( I really wish they know everything but unfortunately they just pretend to know everything )

In MY opinion everyone should try to think about Global warming - think about it as the flint that is waiting to be ignited. What can you do to help slow it down?, what can you do to stop it?, what can you do as this planets inhabitant?... what, how and when?

I am not being an alarmist but I'm just someone who thinks that this is an important issue that is being piled under a bunch of political bull crap! Almost 99.9% of respected scientist and climatologist researched, studied and observed the recent behaviour of our planet and I am sorry to say that their diagnosis is not good, a minute minority of Government paid Scientist concluded that there is no reason for concern and of course with the government behind their backs...who could contradict them?, It's just sad.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that : WE as the inhabitants of this world, OUR ONLY PLANET should try to do our BEST to try to protect and preserve what we have, It is not up to this " coo-koo" political scientist and climatologist ( shame on you!!!) to decide what is going on with our planet, just look out in the window, the news and the extreme climate events that is happening in our world...

...If that is not enough evidence for you I don't know what can convince you to act on this matter.

Even a very simple thing such as replacing your incandescent light bulbs with Fluorescent lights can help, carpooling and recycling. Simple things to do but could make a great impact towards the future of our planet, most especially the future of OUR CHILDREN.

To end my rant about this issue, I hope everybody makes a conscious decision about Global Warming, It is real and It is happening - Our world is such a beautiful place, a wonderful place to live in. It is one of a kind in our solar system and In my opinion, the only one with concrete evidence of LIFE...If we don't take care of this earth everything will run out, resources will go dry and I guess that will be the worst of all time to ask...

...Where are we going to move?...

...Don't wait until it's too late, act now!

Our Family

2007-03-06T01:04:00.000-08:00

I just got back from a recent trip to Los Angeles - I always enjoy coming down for a while and spending time with my "Nanay & Tatay"( Mom and Dad ), My siblings, cousins and dear friends.

Visiting L.A. is always fun for me, Our family loves getting together because it is the time where all of us gather under the same roof and share funny and eventful stories on a personal level.

Now that all of us are considered adults, the age barrier of being uncomfortable to share life stories with our family has been torn down and now more than ever I feel that our family is happier with solid bonds between brothers and sisters as well as an openness to accept and welcome other like minded people in our lives...once we get to know them, they are not considered as peers anymore but our extended family members.

Wealth and things of luxury may be a good thing but I am happy to say that my family is not all about that - the things that we value the most are the experiences and knowledge that our Mom have instilled in all of us and "to always think about our siblings and never argue about money"...I guess all those years of Mom reminding us about this has finally paid off - My brother is someone that I will look up to probably till the time that I'm old and crinkly- he's a cool dude, My sisters are always like a ray of sunshine to me, their outgoing and cheerful personality never fails to shine even if they have other things to worry about, I love them dearly and I'll always will.

My "Tatay" (Dad) is a very hardworking guy, at his age now, he's supposed to be retired but instead he decided to keep working to help support our 2 remaining brothers in the Philippines - Dad may not be the warm and cozy kind of guy but we know and feel that he loves us even if he doesn't say it to all of us.( although occasionally he will have his sudden spurt of goofiness...such as picking on my weight gain or giving flattering comments on our self improvements )

My " Nanay" (Mom) is my pillar, I am very proud of her especially for EVERYTHING that she has done for me and for all of us - she's the kind of Mom that every one could wish for, she always puts her childrens need before hers, she always shows her love for everyone unconditionally and for that, I will be forever thankful that I have been blessed with a Mom like her.

I guess the best part of having a family like ours is the fact that although we dream of things of grandeur, wealth and luxury - we always think of each other and look after each other, having the confidence that you have a Mom & Dad, a brother, sisters, extended family and friends who will always be there for you is the best feeling in the world - No matter how things may come or no matter how hard things may be, I know in my heart that they will always be there, always supportive - never negative.

Mom have always told us to live life within our own means and never aspire for things that we simply could not afford...living a low key and simple life is something that I will always remember, "Life lived in simple ways brings a lot of good and order in a household".

The joy of having such a wonderful family can never be measured nor summed in any amount of money, I am very thankful and grateful that I have them in my life.

I feel like our extended family is a big blessing to our family, having people like them around us is a wonderful thing, I hope that in our very own way, we have never made you feel unwelcomed, your friendship and camaraderie will always be a part of us, thank you for your trust and confidence in our familia.

Now for the question Why are family, relatives and friends important?...

...Without them, you are just an empty shell, without them you are no one, without them your life is just a mere example of isolation.

The things that your family teaches you are your foundation to your own growth, the things that you'll learn from your extended family are the ingredients that will make your life experiences more fruitful, the lessons that you'll learn from all of them are the things that will make you the better person that you could become...

...without them...

...your world will be a world of single hues, of little color...

..."No man is an island, no man stands alone"...

...Your Family, Relatives and Friends are a blessing,
Keep them, Enjoy them....

...Treasure them.

HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP

2007-03-06T00:31:00.000-08:00

The EVIL Sugar Imitation

Cereals, Snack Bars, Breads and even those that claim to be "100% Natural Juice Drinks" contain High Fructose Corn Syrup(HFCS). Soda's ( diet and regular ) are one of the worst!, second among the ingredients used to make the thirst quenching drink is..........HFCS.

Now, you maybe asking what the hell is wrong with HFCS?...It makes everything sweet and tasty doesn't it? Well I have one simple answer for it which everyone could easily grasp ( hopefully ) :

High Fructose Corn Syrup Is a chemically altered substance...it is NOT sugar but it imitates sugar, The reason that it is so bad for our body is because, since it is a chemical/product that is alien to our metabolic system, our body doesn't know how to process it which leads our body to store it as fat! and one of the leading cause of obesity and other health problems to all who consume a lot of it.

Here's an article about HFCS written by Mary Glenda

A Critical Care Nurse and Nutrition Enthusiast

Experts are finding that "high-fructose corn syrup" (HFCS) is making us fat. Scientists at nutrition research centers are saying that it's a huge problem. Exactly what is "high-fructose corn syrup"?

Well, it's not the same thing at all as the natural, healthy fructose in honey and fruit. "High-fructose corn syrup" is a highly refined, artificial product. It is created through an intricate process that transforms cornstarch into a thick, clear liquid.

White sugar and "high-fructose corn syrup" are not the same. Industry advocates for corn growers say that they are the same. But nutritional science studies say that there is a big difference between the two. They say that "high-fructose corn syrup" is worse than sugar.

This manufactured fructose is sweeter than sugar in an unhealthy way, and is digested differently in a bad way. Research has shown that "high-fructose corn syrup" goes directly to the liver, releasing enzymes that instruct the body to then store fat! This may elevate triglyceride (fat in blood) levels and elevate cholesterol levels. This fake fructose may slow fat burning and cause weight gain.

Other research indicates that it does not stimulate insulin production, which usually creates a sense of being full. Therefore, people may eat more than they should. Indications also are that the important chromium levels are lowered by this sweetener which may then contribute to type 2 diabetes. Obesity is a contributor too.

Many older Americans are overweight. As we age, our taste buds don't work as efficiently, prompting us to eat more of everything that tastes sweet. "High-fructose corn syrup" is in almost everything.

The dangers of white sugar have been known for a long time. But now the evidence seems clear that "high-fructose corn syrup" is an even more dangerous consequence for our love of sweets. Dietary experts are singling out this fake syrup as one reason for the startling rise in obesity in America and related increase in diabetes.

"High-fructose corn syrup" is not the corn syrup you buy in a bottle at the supermarket to use for baking. It's an artificial additive that's cheaper and easier for manufacturers of sodas and fruit juices to use. If you read labels, you'll find this additive in such products as pizzas, baked beans, candies, yeast breads, sweetened yogurt, baby food, ketchup, cookies, beer, sodas, juices and alarmingly in most brands of manufactured foods. I have to read a lot of labels to find a brand that doesn't contain "HFCS".

If the artificial additive "high-fructose corn syrup" is added to an otherwise healthy food, is it still healthy? If you add a speck of poison to vitamins, are they still good for you? After all, just a speck of poison probably won't hurt you on the spot, but accumulative amounts most probably will. 30 years of these accumulative affects of "high-fructose corn syrup" is evident in the obesity and health problems we have today.

****

Isn't that a very good explanation of this evil substance lurking in our groceries and pantries!

A big KUDOS to Mary Glenda for her brilliant explanation! You could read her whole article on this link : http://www.noweightgaincookbooks.com/worse_than_sugar.htm

Anything that is chemically altered is most of the time BAD for our health. Butter for instance is frowned upon by some health conscious individuals BUT did you know that butter is readily recognized by our body as a natural substance/product unlike their grocery counterparts such as : Margarine, "I can't believe it's not butter ", Blue Bonnet and other cruddy stuff that you spread in your bread.

According to studies Butter used in moderate amount is absorbed by our body quite easily and flushed away in just a few days ( moderation is the keyword here ), Margarine on the other hand will take at least 14 days to a month before our body can flush it off our system ...why?...because our body doesn't recognized the substance and chemicals that is present in our beloved " Country Crock Margarine" which in turns stores it as fat and does a lot of harm to our arteries!

Anyway, a lot of deceitful advertisement is out in our groceries such as 100% wheat or 100% natural, the best way to fight this malicious advertisement is to make a conscious decision for the benefit of your health and your family.

Always look at the Ingredients of the product that you are buying, if the first ingredient of the Wheat bread you are buying is 100% Whole wheat - then it is whole wheat ( don't be fooled by Whole Wheat flour!!! or Bleached Flour...it is not the same! and as mentioned even some breads have HFCS too!) There's a lot of Good Fruit juices out there without HFCS, I know that majority of us doesn't have the time to look at the Nutrition Facts at the back of the box but it is a very simple way to take care of your body...don't wait until it's too late!

What have I learned

2006-10-18T11:16:00.000-07:00

" Mountain Pinks " - They are rare flowers, they bloom around the first week of the wet spring, they are too small, too delicate and the flowers usually wilt and die within a week - a couple at the max.

Anyway, what is the relation of this picture to my blog?, Just read along and you'll find out, One relation for sure is that I am the photographer of this beautiful little cluster of flowers.

I'll start up by saying that it is 11:15 PM already and the date is Oct. 1st, a couple days from now, I will be celebrating that dreadful day ( or maybe not ) another chapter of my life will come to an end and a new one will about to begin...

...A clean slate - to be filled up with something new, eventful and uneventful details of life - happy & sad - exciting & boring - heartwarming & annoying - Intelligent & dumb...

...There comes a point in our life that we question everything, a certain time that we seem to ask Why?- not just once but almost a dozen times, I have longed to find all the answer to my life's question but most of them seems so near but yet so far, all I see are blurred images of things that i wanted to know, so much to do yet so little time.

At times, It breaks my heart to look back on some of the events that happen to me, most especially after college when everything seems to be going the way I wanted it to be and the way I planned my life to be...Excellent job offers from big companies - A fresh graduate with a lot of opportunities - Big time companies with job positions that only a few could dream and imagine...but then...

...I decided to turn my back and go the other route- the road that I had planned for myself is slowly closing it's doors...I turned my back to all this wonderful opportunities, left for the U.S. to gamble into the unknown - It's difficult not having any ideas of what lies ahead, the uncertainty , challenges and disappointments, I've always tried to be an achiever but the task right in front of me seems to be more than what I could handle...

...I left with my family but my heart stayed back home, all the people who are so dear to me - now just a memory that my mind will have to hold on...It's a long flight, almost 16 hours of excitement, sadness and uncertainty...The " what If's, How and When" are racing through my mind...I wish I knew the answers then....but then again - The doors of Opportunities back home are now a mere memory being blown by the winds of time.

It's been a while now since I last looked back, most everything and everybody had moved on, I had managed to find my footings eventhough I stumbled upon many divets and potholes - Every encounter and experience is life's lesson that we have to learn & face along the way...

...It hurts - good enough to break my spirit but I just continued and moved on...

...I would say this now and I'm only saying this because of the experiences that I had " Life without adventure is like Life lived in a box " Life won't wait for us, we have to move with it, disappointments doesn't hold us back - We hold ourselves back after the disappoinments - " It's O.k. to cry, It's alright to cry but we have to move on while we cry " or we will find ourselves stuck in the same place where the tears flowed down and you'll find yourself stuck in agony and pain.

I don't know If I am just a sentimental fool but looking back to all those wonderful years (some good and some not as I want it to be ) made me realize that "Time sure fly"...I can only hope that during those times, I was able to touch somebody else's life...It's nice to live yourlife but it's great when you touch someone.

Now, what is the relation of the Mountain Pinks to this blog? - Although life may seem too short for us to do all the things that we aspire, let's make good use of the moment and try to live it as humanly possible or as we can, the Mountain Pinks only have a couple weeks to live it's life but still in that short period of time the flower showed it's beauty and blossomed into something beautiful and truly inspirational.

"Life is not all about the maps, It's also about the adventures! Go forth and explore but always remember to keep an openmind." ~NEiL G.

Friends

2006-09-26T00:11:00.000-07:00

Friends ( D'LARN )

How often do you meet a bunch of strangers and they end up being your most treasured friends? It is true that we may have a lot of com rads and acquaintances but to have a Friend ( a group of them in my case ) is something unique and special.

I feel fortunate that in my lifetime, I had the privilege of meeting such people, They are those folks who helped me to be who I am now and will always be thankful for all the wonderful years we spent together. A REAL friend is hard to come by...but when you find one or two or three - I mean the REAL ones, Treasure them - they are more than worth your time and money. And honestly, If everything in your life falls apart ( which I hope not )- you will have your friend with you to help you get on your feet again, Always remember, your friend will not only be the person to say "yes and good " all the time, they will also be the person who will tell you the truth and the realities that could sometimes hurt but is necessary for you to gain personal growth. " The truth sometimes hurt, aren't you glad you have someone to tell you about it before you humiliate your self in front of millions?"

I am so glad and delighted that even though things have changed and time has aged all of us ( not wrinkled yet ) We stayed in contact and remained friends. In my opinion the distance that separates all of us became our way of strengthening the bond of our friendship.
" Distance is just a state of mind ", sure, we miss all those times that we hang around the street corner or at Ruby's Patio and talk our way through the night, maybe not talking anything sensible but at least it's a good way for us to express what we feel and a way for us to say it " In our own way and In our own style " I sure miss those "TEEN" years but like time itself - We have to move on.

Most of us have our own families now, some have/had relationships that did and didn't last, we experienced the triumph and struggles of the REAL Life and now most especially We know that money is not that easy to come by yet so easy to spend. The responsibilities that we use to take for granted is now bigger than life, I sure wish I could turn the hands of time back to where everything was simple, but then again - what is the purpose of my life if I won't face the challenges that lays ahead of me. I know my friends faces the same difficulties as I am, although of different degrees and situation but in the end We know that at least someone will be there to catch us in any mishaps or tumble that we may encounter along the way.

Amidst the time and years that we haven't seen each other - a short phone conversation brings so much memories and I mean the special ones.

Now I'm a Godfather to Don & Aida's 5 year old Daughter and so Is Ruby ( a Godmother that is...not the fairy kind ), My best friend Rey and I are still best friends - strong as ever - goofy as always ( I'm so proud of how well he's doing with his life now ) Liezl & Ruby are the same - best friends for life, Chatty as always...lol, Liezl has her own family now as well as Rizza, Although Sharon and Rey's relationship faltered, we're happy that they remained friends. Ruby and I are thousands of miles away from everyone but like what I said - Distance is only a state of mind, having true friends is like having a special connection to everybody no matter where you are or no matter what the case may be.

D'LARN - Don, Liezl, Aida, Rona, Rizza, Ruby, Nante & Neil

Words of Wisdom by Maya Angelou

2006-09-19T20:03:00.000-07:00

I want to share with you guys an e-mail that my sister sent me, I must say that of ALL the e-mails that I have received, this is one that I really enjoyed reading. So sit down and learn, sometimes It's not about the words but the meanings.

Words of wisdom by Maya Angelou :

"I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today,life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow."

"I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/shehandles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangledChristmas tree lights."

"I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents,you'll miss them when they're gone from your life."

"I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as 'making alife'."

"I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance."

"I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitton both hands; you need to be able to throw some things back."

"I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, Iusually make the right decision."

"I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one."

"I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone.People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back."

"I've learned that I still have a lot to learn."

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forgetwhat you did,
but people will never forget how you made them feel."

***
Maya Angelou's wisdom is truly a gift.

There is so much for us to learn yet life seems so short, although looking on the bright side of life, I just have to make the most of what I have and what I've got, I can't dwell upon the things that I don't have but I sure can make the best of the things that I already have...

...and one more thing " Life is not all about the Maps, It's also about the Adventures, go on and explore but always remember to keep an open-mind "~NEiL G.

The Blog

2006-09-18T20:19:00.000-07:00

I want to start this blog in a positive way, knowing myself, I know i could get pretty involved with a lot of things whether it concerns me directly or indirectly, I strongly believe that the only way we could learn and continuously improve is to be able to accept or contradict opinions as well as to keep an open-mind about all the issues and topics being discussed. Often times our emotions supersedes our logical thinking, these are the situations where the saying " Sticking your foot in your mouth" could easily apply. I hope to post, informative, funny, logical, controversial and exciting ideas on this blog...or whatever comes in mind.