Little Man

Music

2012-01-25T21:29:00.000-08:00

"Where words fail, music speaks" so goes a quote that I found while surfing the net. Music has been my savior of sorts as I and my family go through a major crisis in our lives. Funny thing about it is everyone is happy at home and it seems there is no crisis at all.

However, the weary need to rest. I have not had a vacation in a long time and have been silent and out of the loop in my circle of friends.

I am tired, impatient, and frustrated over the waiting game I again have to play as the year of the dragon starts.

As they say, time is gold and I have always tried to buy time at a very expensive cost.

Well, there is nothing more I can do but wait. Meantime, I hold my chin up and do what needs to be done to survive. As I always say, this will be over soon.

Blues

2011-10-01T20:27:00.000-07:00

In an anniversary party of our company in 2003, I hired famous Filipino Reggae band "Tropical Despression". I have been following this band since the 90's as aside from knowing their front man personally, their former bassist was a band mate in high school.

After their set, they hurriedly left the venue telling me they had to catch the gig of Juan Dela Cruz lead guitarist and rock icon Wally Gonzalez. I couldn't believe what I had heard as Wally was out of the music scene for more than 15 years.

A week after, cutting a long story short, I had followed Wally's gigs at his band's home, Chaquico's formerly Kiko's bar and at other bars when my tight schedule allowed me to.

Every time I watched his gigs, I had this desire to ask him to play even one song to make my dream come true to play with my idol. Unbelievably at a product launch last night, that dream came true.

It was "Halo Halo Special" as my friend called the band named "The Manila Blues Experiment". A collection of great musical talents from well known rock and jazz bands in Manila: Kat Agarado of Sino Sikat, Louie Talan of Razor Back, Vic Mercado of Rivermaya and Bamboo, Wowee Posadas, session keyboardist and drummer of several great artists, and of course the rock guitar god and my idol...Wally Gonzalez.

Fortunately, good friends made the request with slight hesitation from some of the band members but the 2 of my favorite "Wally Songs" : Wally's Blues and JDLC original Beep Beep were approved by Wally so the jam went on with Wally's Blues coming in first. Powerful at the build up, unforgettable in the end. And it was most fulfilling after your idol gives you his sign of approval with a high five.

Another JDLC song came in second but it was more of a fun segue to the first song as we all did not take it seriously being sung by a friend who had a drink too many. Fast forward, I requested to sing "Beep Beep" while playing the drums. I felt the entire band was worried as they thought it was going to be a train wreck. Well, I proved them wrong. The song was sung an played in the format of the original version in the "Maskara Album". And what was so rewarding was to see seasoned musicians looking at you while we played as if saying something through their instruments. It was tight and heavy till the end.

That's one off my bucket list. Amid all of life's hardships, there are always moments that lighten you up. Surely one for the books that I will never forget till the end of my days.

Thank you Manila Blues Experience for one of the best experiences I have ever encountered in my life. I look forward to more.

Bright Idea

2011-09-28T00:13:00.000-07:00

I have not stopped using my imagination to come up with a new concept for this new project I have been working on for months.

With the goal of having my own "brand", I have exhausted everything I can to come up with at least 3 alternative concepts just in case the one I chose does not get accepted by my partners.

In as short as 10 minutes into my explanation, I was happy to see their faces light up with their big nods of approval.

So here we go again, moving forward and thinking of ways to mix good taste and affordable price with a concept that will come in with a bang!

I hope I can open this with the budget I estimated with in time for the holiday season. It would help my family a lot and it would give opportunities to my brothers as well.

Taste test is in the making......Let's get it on!

BER

2011-09-07T00:42:00.000-07:00

We have now reached the "BER" months. That means, in 3 months, people will get crazy again and celebrate Christmas season. The time of the year when you eat what you are not supposed to, there are parties almost every week, and people wait for you to give them a little something to spread the cheer so to speak. Good for those with deep pockets, dangerous for those who have none in them.

Well life has been too exciting lately and I'm hoping the excitement mellows a little bit so I can rest. I mean, I'm not complaining but sometimes a guy needs some R&R.

It would be great if I could buy a bike though. I miss biking and racing.

I hope to be able to do it soon.

Moving On

2011-07-11T22:56:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I last posted in this blog of mine and there are times I have already forgotten it even exists.

Another boring day so I decided to put something new today.

Yes, it was a big opportunity as I mentioned in my last post, but little did I know that it would turn out into a big headache. Real colors of people you knew and did not know started to show, and the circus came to town. You got crooks, Mr. know it alls, button pushers, big talkers.

But life went on, on a positive note, and I am proud to say that the team towed the line. From a very optimistic and enthusiastic start to survival mode, admittedly I have sort of fallen in love with the challenge.....why? I have no idea.

I am just fortunate to have partners that are honest, a very supportive and loving wife, and friends who come to your rescue whenever you need them.

I write from the point of view of the circle within the business. Outside that circle lurk the critics who judge and preach their quick fix tips even though they have zero experience in this type of business. The holier than thous who think like they are some kind of well known food critic but the truth is, they do not even know their food.

On the other hand there are the advisers, each word of advice they give you is a treasure that you will learn from. Their kind words inspire and give you the strength to move on day after day.

Whatever it is, I hope in that in the end, the workers are taken cared of. All the bad eggs have left and the ones who stayed behind are all deserving of a better future.

Like the greeting I received last New Year's eve from a dear adviser, May you be more blessed this year so that you may share your blessings with the ones you love.

I surely wish the same for our workers and everyone who put in his and her heart and soul into this venture. Good luck to us.

Here We Go Again

2010-09-14T19:25:00.000-07:00

I posted a very positive statement in my status bar at FB last Monday morning. Reason for this was another big opportunity for me as I embark on a new business venture, the fruit of a spur of the moment conversation with a friend I needed to catch up with.

Based on the meetings we had....so far so good and things are looking bright for this new project, my fourth for the year.

I have a good feeling about this as there has been no negative vibe since the day we started. As I posted the next day "This is it! Point of no return!". I was full of excitement and enthusiasm. Everything felt right from the place, to the decor, to the land lord.

Like all the business ventures I have gotten into, I really don't have an idea of what is in store for all of us who put in our money for a better future. I just wish everyone all the best as we start a journey into the unknown.

Keep 'em coming

2010-09-07T20:49:00.000-07:00

Since my trip to the City of Pines almost 4 months ago, a lot of things have happened. I seemed to have disappeared from the face of the earth in the eyes of "normal" people as I have been immersed in training since then.

A lot of obstacles have been hurdled as far as personal and business matters are concerned. And my goal to finish another IM 70.3 was fulfilled 19 minutes better than last years time.

My wife and I were able to sneak a mini honeymoon at the beautiful Caramoan Islands and everything good has been happening since despite the pot holes that I normally encounter in life's never ending road.

Yesterday was a time for long lost friends. I had a blast after a long vacation from partying. Based on my calendar of events, there are more meet ups and mini reunions to come which is nice as I will be seeing my classmates once again.

It has been an uphill climb for me as usual. But the funny thing is, the opportunities keep coming and keep getting better. A good sign that I am constantly moving forward which is my mentality in any race.

Today I hit a big pot hole but the options are still there. So keep em coming as I keep moving forward to deal with every obstacle the lies ahead.

The City of Pines

2010-05-25T22:56:00.001-07:00

It has been awhile since my last visit to the Philippines' "Summer Capital". The last time I think was like 5 years ago with my scooter club.

Last weekend was different as we went there as a family. Family meaning, almost the entire clan, my mom, wife and kids, and close family friends.

It turned out to be a reunion of sorts as we met and lived with family friends we had not seen for decades. Aside from this, it was a first time for my youngest son to see the place, a promise I was able to fulfill after years of wishing and planning.

To cut a long story short, we had a blast doing all the touristy stuff any regular Baguio visitor would try to stay away from. Sad to say, I saw how the place had deteriorated and how it had changed from a quiet little city, green all around to a congested polluted, and traffic filled city.

We used to buy native souvenirs when we were young as well as snacks and anything ethnic Baguio had to offer. Now its second hand clothes, military surplus, and an array of junk.

The man made lake at Burnham park was colored dark green. An incentive to all boat passengers never to fall in the lake. Not to drown but to die of all the bacteria the lake water had to offer.

I enjoyed the run I did with my wife though. It gave me a glimpse of what Baguio used to be and the smell of pine filled the air in the area where we ran.

I look forward to our return trip this December. I hope the entire family can be there so we can enjoy it more.

Loss

2010-05-14T01:26:00.000-07:00

In the past years, I have experienced tremendous losses : financial loss in the field of business, loss of pride and ego due to money matters. Well to sum it all up, it is always losing money or money is always not enough. This is almost normal to me, routine to say the least.

All the years that I have lived and supported my family as a sole bread winner has made me tough in facing these challenges which I should say are part of the game.

Last month I suffered one of the biggest losses in my life when my father died unexpectedly. Many decades were peaks and valleys for him. The same goes for my relationship with him which was quite a roller coaster ride.

For some strange reason, things started to fall into place a little over a year before he passed. He was happier, relaxed, fulfilled. Our conversations were longer, happier, meaningful.

I was even able to record one where we went on for almost 2 hours.

It was painful to see him go that way. He was in good health and could have lived a longer life. But life is like that and we are not in control of what can happen as we live this difficult life.

I have many could haves : I could have bought him new shoes, could have taken him out to lunch, could have played golf with him. But obligations and work usually get in the way and before I knew it he was gone.

Many changes in the family have transpired since his passing. Changes that have made the family better and stronger in terms of relationships.

These are the signs of the times : we are vulnerable and we are getting older.

We can say life goes on and we have to move on. Board that cart wheel and continue the rat race that we started since the day we were born.

But I miss him and I hope to see him again.

Excited

2010-03-03T21:21:00.001-08:00

I took a leave today after a very tense filled week. Not to rest but to work on a project that came from an idea from an overseas trip last year.

It seems to be moving as planned and tonight, we get to present it to the man who will either give it a thumbs up or its back to the drawing board.

Whatever it is, I do hope it works out as I dreamed it to be : an idea I came up with turning into a business venture that brings me back as an entrepreneur, a chance to work with my wife, a chance to help those who need a break like me.

I have very high hopes and expectations for this and I am very excited about it.

I'll tell you more about it soon.

Hope

2010-02-08T00:03:00.000-08:00

Former Singapore PM Lee Kwan Yew once said that religion gives hope to those who believe which is a good thing.

In my case, hope is when you keep trying and thinking of ways to make your life better. You need patience and tenacity to be able to pull this off otherwise you become hopeless.

Just the other day, an idea entered my mind and I did not stop at it so I sent a proposal to a friend. An mere idea now gives hope to my family in these tough times.

I just "hope" it works. But by the way things are going, there is light at the end of the tunnel. A brainstorming weekend and a research and development session also turned out into bonding time with my family which is a wonderful thing.

It is tiring sometimes to get over each hurdle day by day. But when something like this comes up, it seems so easy to overcome each hurdle.

We have exactly 3 weeks before we go through the final test. Funds are dwindling, resources are limited, but hopes are high......very high.

I keep telling myself that if I will be able to pull this off, I will help those who are in need in my family.

Good luck to us all....

Of Door Stoppers, Friends to the End and Starting the Year with an Anxiety Attack

2010-01-05T20:16:00.000-08:00

The year ended quietly and simply ( for my family that is), issues between families were settled and problems were forgotten while the holiday vacation lasted.

New years should always be started right, so the entire year runs well. On the contrary, mine started with a "BANG" initiated by our problem star of the show "Mr. Anxiety Attack". His problems need to be the whole family's problem, his sleepless nights are our sleepless nights as well. Now he needs to see a psychiatrist at PHP 3,500 a pop?

For someone who barely does anything in life, he is too expensive to maintain, financially, emotionally, psychologically. Come to think of it, I should be the one to see a shrink? No way, not the type to give up as I see these are all flavors my life has to offer me and all I can say is it could have been worse.

Another flavor is the so called "friend to the end type", the one who seems to care but waits for the benefits you can bring him whatever it may be. Sometimes to the point of being his clown. But in the end, I am the one laughing the most.

At the time I needed help most, was the time this character of a person trades me for an expensive door stopper. You know what door stoppers are used for....stopping doors from closing or opening. For him that is, but this one could have tied me over a couple of months without having to "down grade". Well I guess spreading the sunshine doesn't exist after all. Even if you have no use for the damn thing.

Honestly this year seems like a tough one for me. But in the end, I will come out of this smiling again. Just like the past years. At least now I know who I should be with.

Bring it on!

Alive and Living

2009-12-15T20:10:00.001-08:00

It is quite ironic to see people close to you, in their retirement age, doing nothing. Putting myself in their shoes, a lot of "things to do" would come to mind ( bucket list not included as I believe these things are to be accomplished as you go on in life).

But like my wife put it : "They are not like you so....."

Anyway, just for opinion's sake, if only I had that kind of time and resources in my hands, I would:

1. Keep doing triathlons till I'm over 70

2. Do an epic bicycle ride

3. Plant herbs, vegetables, and fruits in my little farm

4. Write poetry

5. Write a book about my uncle who died in the 60's

6. Learn to play a new instrument

7. Keep playing the drums and percussions and form a classic rock band

8. Paint a self portrait

9. Teach in high school preferably about Philippine History

10. Trace my roots

11. Learn how to cook and develop signature dishes for friends and family to enjoy

12. Make my own wine

13. Perfect my method of making pickled mangoes

14. Learn a craft like motorcycle repair, welding, etc.

15. Continue blogging about anything under the sun

........and the list goes on

Sad to say, these people, despite their time, resources, and talent would choose to stay at home and do nothing. Because of this, they become grouchy, unpleasant, engage in gossip, and stare at nothing waiting for other people to make something happen.

The sucks and honestly I can't do anything about it because it's actually none of my business.

So back to the daily grind where we get in that rat wheel and run run run, eat sh%t, sleep, wake up in the morning, and do the same things over and over again until we reach the point where we need to think of what to do.

That is the reality of life, and I will enjoy running the rat race till its time to stop. And stopping means not doing anything but doing what you want, when you want to do it.

Something to really look forward to.....it just makes life more exciting.

Year End

2009-11-25T20:26:00.000-08:00

For some strange reason, I visited my own blog after a long long time. Based on my last entry, almost a year since I last posted anything.

Last topic was "The Toughest Sport in the World" and I guess, without going over the post, I talked about how I planned to do this and do that.

Well, do all of them was more like it. In retrospect, I thought it was going to be a bad year for me. I lost a business that was generating good income for the family so things were rough after the second half of this year, but in the end, its been all good.

I finished 2 major triathlons ( Subit and Camsur Ironman 70.3), and I am so far in the best shape of my life.

I've joined a lot of 5, 10, and 21k races, a mountain bike race, another mountain bike race this weekend, and next week, the year ender : The EXTRI

On the business side, I was able to invest in a trading company, might even open a store before the year ends. I was able to visit Australia, a beautiful resort in Bicol, and have more resorts to visit in the months to come.

My kids are all OK to say the least, and my wife and I are falling deeply in love more and more.

What else can I ask for?

........more money? Maybe just enough to make ends meet will make us all happy

With all these good things and bad that happened....I look forward to the coming year.

The Toughest Sport in the World

2008-12-17T10:08:00.000-08:00

I visit my blog after months of not posting anything. Last post I think was August and after that, I have not written anything since.

My life has changed since my last post as I have indulged in a new and very challenging sport: Triathlon.

This all started when I was allegedly over training and getting slower because of my strength training so I had to drop everything and switch to swimming for my upper body. Since I have already been running for over a year, swimming was the only discipline I had to learn to be able to try out this sport, a sport that I have been dreaming to do for many years.

Fortunately, I found out that one of my friends was also getting into it. We never trained together but through constant text messages to each other about training and race schedules, we finally joined our first event in August...and the rest is history.

I didn't think I would get to like it as the demands of training was taking a toll on my body needless to say my social life. In fact, I tried to squeeze in a party that almost put all my training in the trash bin.

So to cut a long story short, I ended up at a fun tri or try a tri at UPLB. I had so much fun, I wanted to up it a bit and join a sprint tri and loved every moment of it. I was using a mountain bike then, so to improve my time, I purchased a road bike and fitted it with aerobars and a tri seat, thanks to a good friend who supplied me with them.

Train was all I did, and I felt great. I also felt that anything that got in the way of my training was a hassle that set me back major. All my problems became a blur and everything in life just passed like nothing happened. I can say it was working for me and I was like an evangelist telling everyone I knew to take up the sport.

It infected all of them like a virus to the point that a team was formed with a captain, training coaches and an event that would launch the team. Well, that event that was held a few weeks ago would become one of the memorable events for all of us. The team won 8 medals in different age group categories and third overall. Not bad for a launch.

Lately, I have been finding myself wanting to train more. As I write this blog, I deprive myself of much needed sleep as I type and wait 30 minutes more to call a stupid customer service rep who messed up one of my orders. Situations like these saden me as I value my much needed zzzz's but that's life and I have been there and done that so enough of feeling sad. What needs to be done should be done as I try to keep my customer happy for a delivery that I promised to be completed before Christmas day.

It's tough loving this sport and trying to balance your day to day with training and family life. Funny thing is you get to work everything out when you need to and everything falls in place.

In a few more days, I will be spending 2 days alone with my wife and kids. No training, just bonding and I am so anxious because I want the 2 days to be perfect in the sense that I will not receive a work related call. It will be my first vacation in a long time and just thinking about it makes me smile.

So back to work again for me at 2:41am, there is a problem and it needs to be solved at once. I have a strong feeling it will as I forget about it at the beach sipping my cold drink in the company of my loved ones. Life can't be any better than that can't it?

Marked for Life

2008-08-28T18:52:00.000-07:00

My son came home last night with a tattoo on his forearm. I had mixed reactions but to tell you the truth, I did'nt mind at all.

I was more worried about thequality of workmanship and the effect it might have when he tries to find a job.

I admire him for being brave enough to be himself. Unlike me, I made sure my tattoos could not be seen when I wore business clothes to play safe just in case.

It shows that he wants to be himself and I wish all the best for him in the future.

The fruit definitely does not fall far from the tree.

I'll post a picture of it soon.

Bring it On!

2008-08-13T23:39:00.000-07:00

I has been a while since I've posted anything here. The last post according to blogger was April 14 where I wasn't in a good mood.

The feeling was described in one word "numb". Well things have not changed much but my attitude towards problems has changed a lot. Although I have not forgotten what had happened in the past, I have done what I could and things are starting to shape up.

I did what I could focusing more on what can be done rather than cry over spilled milk so to speak.

Now I am excercising more with the goal of finishing a beginner's triathlon 15 days from now, and a sprint triahtlon a month from now.

It is a joy to be able to swim well for almost an hour and be able to bike simoultaneously. This morning I biked and ran, and the other day I did 2 becnhmark work outs one long swim, and a long run.

While I am at it, I have this big smile on my face especially when I am in the last 2 or 3 laps in my swim, or my last kilometer in my run. For biking, there is always a big smile on my face as biking is and has always been an exhilirating experience particlularly when you are riding in a group.

Well, there is no turning back and I hope all the tips I have gathered will pay off come race day. I am excited and anxious about all this. I am tired of the daily training routine leaving me 2 days of rest a week, and I am wondering why by belly has grown bigger the past 2 weeks that I have been at the peak of my training plan.

The bottom line is I am living a dream and my wife and kids are behind me in all this.

Life is short so I have decided to just go for it.

I definitely will tell you about it soon. Meantime, I rest tomorrow and hit the trails again with my buddies.

The coming weeks will be harder in terms of intensity, distance, and time.

Numb

2008-04-14T21:15:00.000-07:00

These trying times have made me stronger physically, mentally but very numb emotionally. I have this automatic switch that makes me feel ready for a big problem to come and I have learned to become more patient in dealing with tight situations.

It is tiring to get mad, and it is a waste of time and energy. Better to focus instead of what lies ahead and the tought that really keeps me going is that this will be over soon.

Best to stay away from people with negative vibes most especially the ones that are related to you. If they won't do you any good, reserve that time instead with your family and swap funny stories over dinner.

I like seeing my kids smile when we trade stories. It makes my day complete and I learn a lot from them. Last night I got carried away when they asked me who Don Corleone was. Well they listened and enjoyed my short tale.

Being numb is good. Amidst the crisis that I and my family face, it doesn't seem like there is a crisis at all.

It is mid-April and I long to have that long awaited vacation at the beach with my wife and kids.

When it rains it pours

2008-03-27T01:52:00.000-07:00

I have been going through a streak of major setbacks for the past 2 months now. Added to the year long betrayal problem is the annual tuition fee, mortgage payments, and bills that don't stop coming in the mail.

A friend said through a YM message that everyone goes through this and we are given problems that we can solve. Well that's a fact and his advice was very encouraging.

This morning I received one of those "faith" emails with a dumb story about a professor and his famous piece of chalk. I could'nt stop myself from replying so I had to give him a piece of my mind regarding his lesson on faith.

This afternoon I had a wonderful lunch alone at this cheap Korean fastfood outlet. Having the need to carboload for tonight's run, I had chicken barbeque, rice and ramyun. I guess that was the only highlight of the day aside from hearing about other bad news on how I was supposed to get paid by my brother's swindler friend and partner, and how the appraisal of my house went as people there stood by to the computation of the bank's appraiser with no objections at all!!!!

I am still happy, in good health and as strong as ever. I write to say that I will just put this all behind and run tonight to the tune of Tom Petty and the Hearbreakers, Steely Dan, and Manfred Man's Earth Band.

The reward is a runner's high, and hopefully good sleep tonight with the thought of being at the trails again in a day. It just makes me smile. It just keeps me going.

It is the best thing to do because stress can make you sick, burn you out, or even kill you.

These things will be over soon. I say this to myself again as I look forward to seeing the beach soon with my family...even just for two days...please.

Broken Promises

2008-03-03T00:36:00.000-08:00

I am on my nth week of being worried about the outcome of a year old problem. Last week, words were exchanged between my brother's wife and I.
In trying to solve the problem, my brother made up a story using me as the main character. Instead of solving the problem, it made it even worse. It created a chain reaction from his wife, the most beautiful member of our family when she called my client, and even my in-laws.
Going with the saying that the truth will set you free, I think it did in a way for me. But for the problem, it didn't.
I just woke up this morning mad as hell again having to follow up with those who are supposed to be doing the task of cleaning up this mess.
I am caught in between, I am treated unfairly, I am not getting any support from the ones who are close to me.
I echo my father's words over the weekend, that "whatever has been said and done is over. Past is past and we should be helping each other solve this once and for all". Very well said, if only the concerned people can hear.
They promised me, but did not deliver.
Who is on my side? No one.
Meantime the best way to escape is to run away from the problem. Literally run. I did that this morning and tonight, I might just do it again.
Just to be able to sleep well.
I hope they read this. I am innocent but treated as if I did wrong.
Where is justice in this life?
What happened to honesty?
To family?
I just keep telling myself that this will be over soon and I will be able to rest.
I no longer have faith, and I am condemed by those who are supposed to support me.
I don't care, I'll just keep trying everyday for as long as I can....

Alone?

2008-02-18T19:52:00.000-08:00

There are days in your life when you feel great. And there are days that suck. Yesterday topped them all.

In my efforts to solve a year long problem caused by my brother, I ended up making a wrong turn. I consider the move a made a wrong turn in the eyes of those who were affected but to me I thought of it more as teamwork where together everyone is supposed to achieve more.

Based on the response I got, I believe nothing will be achieved so I tried seeking advice from close friends only to get unanswered calls that I hope will be returned soon.

So there I was all alone with no one to extend a helping hand or a kind word of advice.

Instead of feeling sorry for myself, I called my wife and told her that I was on my way home to talk to her about the problem.

I got home early yesterday only to see her on her way out. While waiting, I put on my running gear and did 5 fast laps out of 10 and decided to call it a day. It cleared my mind, and while I was at it, it gave me the thought of not quitting and finding a solution for peace of mind's sake.

I woke up this morning only to hear more bad news. But I was determined to pursue my own plan today with the help of my wife.

Sometimes I keep telling my self that this will be over soon. Good or bad, it will end and I will be able to get my much needed rest hopefully in the company of my wife and kids.

Sometimes we feel alone because we look for happiness elsewhere forgetting the fact that the people you love are just there waiting for you to tell them about your bad day.

Last night my son lent me his iPod so I could listen to his newly downloaded tunes and it helped me relax a bit. While my youngest son was watching me savor the music, my wife's arms were wrapped around me.

I was not alone, and I think I never will be.

The Beginning of Greater Rides

2008-01-23T23:10:00.000-08:00

I am posting for the first time this year. After reading my last post, I want everyone who reads this to know that great rides have not ended but have lead to the beginning of even greater rides.

My love for the sport exceeds my hate for past events. I can't say wounds have healed, but I can say I easily forget and mountain biking is the best solution for you to forget your problems, whatever they are.

In restrospect, last year was a good year for me, my family and my friends. For business, it was a lot better than the previous year. For my home, we just had a new room done, and 4 new members added to my family of 7. So we're now 12 in all.

I also bought a new Vespa and there are a lot of opportunities that lie ahead.

There is a problem though, a big one that I still have to solve, with a deadline to boot coming in a few days.

Since my new year's resolution is to think positive. Life is shortso enjoy the ride, I say I just have to deal with it.

One of my main goals for this year is to REST. I need a break, a break from all of this. Work, money, exercise, and a host of other things one can't do without.

I have also made a vow to spend more time alone : go to the spa, window shop, listen to my favorite tunes while sipping coffee, or talking long walks around the city.

Last but not the least is to spend more time with the kids. I've actually done that during the Christmas break but there are better ways of spending time with them. Doing something simple, quiet, intimate like the time we went to the beach last summer snorkling the whole day, feeding the fish.

Hope I will be able to take a step back soon. Re-energize and take on whatever comes my way this year.

The End of Great Rides?

2007-10-08T21:31:00.000-07:00

I just realized that I have not posted anything for a whole month. I normally write about good, happy, memorable events.

This time I write with a heavy heart. I had just been betrayed by my own brother at the start of the year. Wounds have not healed yet and now I just found out that a biking buddy did the same last week.

Fortunately, I have friends who told me about it. Now I am burdened with the task of dealing with this issue. It has taken a toll on my health, work, relationships, and one of the loves of my life...mountain biking.

If you back read, I need not explain further. Last Saturday was the first time in my biking history that I will have to painfully admit, I lost my appetite. The zeal was no longer there, the excitement was gone.

At the end of the day, it all boils down to money...money the true god of everyone. Money, the one thing everyone desires.

I have decided to sell my bikes this week : a giant reign and an old school specialized M2. a friend just called to try to convince me not to go ahead with this. although it pains me, I cannot bear to have to put up with people I cannot trust, especially in the trails.

Sometimes it is difficult to understand life. You work and strive to become a better provider to your family and later on, you discover that people try to steal your livelyhood from you. Confronted they say they did not intend to do so. They merely wanted to show me how to earn more.

Good intentions? I think not. This is what you call dog eat dog. But the irony of it all is that dogs are not even like that. Part of my family are 2 dogs : a Pitbull named Bruno and the Shi tzu named Missy. They are a bundle of joy, hard to manage but definitely do not eat each other as the saying goes.

I think the saying should be : man eat man. Sad to say, this is true even among family members, friends, relatives, co-workers.

So never let your guard down or you get punched in the face.

So will this be the end of great rides? I really don't know.

The answer lies in how I will feel towards the people around me within this week.

Sad....

The Meeting of the Spirits

2007-08-28T01:45:00.000-07:00

After searching "John MacLaughlin" at youtube.com last week, one of the results yielded a song entitled "The Meeting of the Spirits". It showed a performance of the then Mahavishnu Orchestra with Jean Luc Ponty on the violin.

It made me wonder what a meeting of spirits meant, last Saturday, I began to realize what it meant.

After four weeks of band rehearsals for the upcoming silver Jubilee of Batch '82 of our highschool, I had a chance again to play infront of a big crowd after a long vacation from my musical hobby.

The rehearsals were great, well...most of them, but I forgot the feeling one gets when a big crowd is watching.

Soundcheck was scheduled at 2PM, so I had my wife drop me off at my regular scooter shop to enable me to get my scooter. I then proceeded to the venue to check the equipment and how we sounded as a band.

To my disappointment, 2 band members did not show up on time. But when they did, we proceeded to run through the hardest songs to make sure everything was in place. My band mates told me we sounded great and that I should put in 100% more power to my drum playing, (according to our lead guitarist), a thing that would surely happen when I see a big audience.

And happen it did. We had to get home to freshen up, but due to the terrible traffic caused by the heavy downpour, I was stuck for more than an hour.

On the way driving, I thought heavily about the possibility of my youngest son watching the event. I went on to focus more on getting us there together on time.

I got there a few minutes later than the agreed time but it was OK as everyone was busy registering and greeting long lost friends, classmates, etc.

The rest of the guys showed up and voila, we were ready to set up and we were given the signal that we were on in 15 minutes.

Band leader freaked out, our bassist was missing. I called, and gladly got the good news that he was a few minutes away.

My next worry was my youngest son. Remembering his anxiety to see his pop play on stage for the first time in his life, I sent a text message to my wife that said : were on in 15.

Upstage, I sent a last message to her that said : starting in 5.

Then, my bassist friend, gives me a big smile and lifts a cold can of beer to sort of say..."enjoy the party". That did it all.

I was loaded before the show started ( to say the least), and according to our keyboard player...he was flying. Out in the parking lot, my son was flying too, running as fast as he could to catch our first number.

The rest is history. I can't say that the performance was flawless, but I can definitely say that the energy was superb, and all out.

While we played, I experienced the "Meeting of the Spirits". The smiles on the faces of my band mates after each song we played, the high fives and handshakes from the audience after the performance, and most of all, my sons embrace after I had just gotten off stage.

While I was changing to a fresh shirt from my sweat drenched shirt, he said "Pop, you were good". I guess during the 9 songs we played, his spirit met with ours too.

Testing My Endurance

2007-08-21T01:29:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, after a fruitful meeting with a friend, I played sucker to an invitation to join a "24 hour mountainbike race".

Having a finger pointed at my face by someone who does not bike regularly, I gladly gave in to the invitation to a race that was to be held the following morning.

"Its only 15 laps per team member", I heard them say. And..."this is what we train for", we very convincing words from the "more experienced" guys in the group.

I picked up my wife from her brother's house, a stones throw away from our home. I told her about what was in store for me the next morning and she said "do well".

It sounded more like a sarcastic remark rather than words of encouragement. I could not blame her.

I woke up at my own pace. Still tired from 2 work outs at my home gym, a 5 km run, and a 21km bike ride the other day. I loaded on carbs, bananas, pineapples and lots of water.

At around 10:30am, I proceeded to the event site. Instructed by our "manager", I had to drop by their shop in Alabang for some instructions only to find out our "guru" was freaking out again because we were late.

Having no choice, I decided to buy some gatorade and bananas just in case.

When I got there, the place was festive and filled with mountainbikes of all kinds. Parking was limited and there was a city of tents surrounding the area.

Fortunately, I was able to locate my group and I was able to find a good parking space. Then off I went to suite up and get ready for the race.

The occasion was eventful. Just right after the mad dash at the starting gate, a rider bumped me and my friend. We attempted to try to help him up and say sorry, but we ended up eating all the bad words the guy could muster. My friend gladly returned the gesture.

At 1PM, I did my first three laps consecutively. One lap in 20mins, the next one in 23, the 3rd one in close to 30mins.

My computer's temperature gauge read 40, so I guess that was what slowed me down. I was then advised to stop and rest to allow a teammate to do his laps.

To cut a long story short, the scenario was the same for the next 13 hours. Bike...rest...bike...rest

My other teammate quit and went home with his promise that he would return the following day. The other one ( we were a 3 man team) showed up late in the afternoon and did his 4 laps and that was it.

We were all required to do 15 minimum, or our team would be disqualified. Well being the non-quitter that I am, I finished at 4am, my 2 other mates weren't quite lucky. One was a now show and the other one had to quit after doing another 4 laps the next day.

This was a first for me. I have never worked out till 4am the next day. Feeling tired, sleepy and fatigued from the long work week, I was surprised I made it.

I had a sore throat, and a big mouth sore that became even bigger during the race. I was biking in total darkness with only a weak light to guide me through.

What helped me finish was the help of friends. The guy who offered me soup every time I'd stop to rest. The chilled apples, the bananas. The story telling from the guys who did not race but supported us. The classic rock music from the ipods friends lent us to get us by during the night.

The cheers from fellow competitors and most of all, the words of encouragement from fellow rider friends who volunteered to accompany me at night while we all fell in ruts, slipped through muddy single track trails, jumped over ditches, and pushed our bikes up un-ridable hills.

Bottom line is "I get by with a little help from my friends"...and I made it. No trophies, no certificates. Just my dirty number and a picture of my cyclocomputer that reads 87km in 8 hours.

Will I do this again? Why not.

Ambushed by a Jesus Freak and Saying Goodbye to Aja

2007-08-09T19:59:00.000-07:00

Not all of my scooter rides are great. In long rides there are breakdowns, at the track there are crashes or all sorts.

On the other hand, I can always say all my mountainbike rides are great whether solo or in a group, at any trail in any weather condition.
The worse ride I can probably remember was when I used my hard tail bike and by rear derailieur got eaten up by my spokes. Had to go home after doing only 3KM but still enjoyed every bit of it.

Last week, I experienced what I call the worse ride of all. The first part was the real ride that I enjoyed immensely. The second part was when we were ambushed by an over zealous, holier than thou preacher who told us that : If we do not have faith, we will go to hell.

The first part of the ride was a great new adventure. We rode fire rodes with long climbs on rocky lose terrain. The rest was all rolling at exciting speeds, with good company.

All of the 27kms. we did was a blast to say the least and was one hell of a workout for me that day. Until.....

We had to go back to the farm for lunch, and a desert that we all would never forget.

To cut a long story short, it was the best example of someone shoving it down your throat. The best hard sell salesman I have ever encountered in my entire life.

To end the story...I did not buy what he was selling. And, if that was his condition of getting to heaven, then his heaven must be a very lonely place.

I asked him a theoretical question where a man who is morally upright who lives in the bundoks, loves his family but does not know Jesus vs. a man who dresses like Elvis, knows the bible by heart but fools around and sells drugs...who will go to heaven ? I said.

His answer folks is Elvis is going to heaven.

I'd like to forget about that ordeal and instead remember a bike that I had to let go for family reasons.

Last night she was picked up from my house by her new and rightful owner.

I dreamed about owning a GB400 years ago. My dream came true when I found Aja at a shop near our place.

Well...that's life, there a certain things that you can't keep forever.

Aja is one of them but I am happy that it was for a good reason and that she is now in good hands and in a new home.

Heaven

2007-07-25T21:37:00.001-07:00

It's my wife's birthday today and we both celebrate it with a simple lunch at her favorite pizza place. Sunday, we go out with the entire family to enjoy Yakitori at a resto I found online.

Last night, I kept texting her from a studio where a band rehearsal was going on for a highschoool reunion scheduled for next month.

It was actually our third and most fulfilling one as compared to the first two sessions that I can rate a 2 out of a perfect 10.

It has been almost 15 years since I have really played and rehearsed for a gig. The line up last night was a combination of rusty old musicians and professionals who play regular gigs. There was rythm guitarist and vocalist Jorge Marco, an old bandmate from highschool who is actually responsible for all this, and myself who I both consider the rusty old ones in the group.

The rest were the pros: my old bandmate Warren Norton who played lead guitar and sang back vocals, Patrick Choi played keyboards and back vocals, and Alan Dichoso on bass and back vocals. All play for a classic hard rock band called Grind Stone.

I came in late being skeptical and all about the outcome. Upon arrival, excitment filled the air and I was alive again.

Hearing them tune their instruments gave a hint of the good old days and how pros would really play. It was a totally different experience for me as the warm up jamming songs turned out to be kick ass versions of classic rock covers.

Each tune one would propose by playing parts of the song would be answered by a drum roll, bass lines, and mean guitar riffs followed by vocals and a tight jam would be the end result.

I was challenged because I found it hard to sustain shuffle beats to songs like Steely Dan's "Reelin in the years" and Toto's "hold the line".

As everyone said, at the end of the day we all had fun. Speaking for myself, I felt this scarry feeling whenever I would experience playing good music. It is the kind of feeling when your spirit lives, flies, and you start to loose yourself amongst the colors and notes and sounds that come together from people playing around you, two of which I have played for the first time.

I remember hearing an Indian who asked a jail guard in the movie "The Green Mile". Before his execution, he asked..."I wonder what would heaven be like?" He then shared a story about himself and his wife when they were still young and they would make love beneath the stars. After which he remarked " I hope heaven would be like that".

I personally don't believe in the concept of white coulds, and angels with wings, and everyone wearing white.

For me, there are moments in our lives when we experience heaven and when we look back, we just smile and cherish the moment. These are all archived in our brain and subconscious and it does not leave until the day we die.

Last night was one of those moments. Today, being my wife's birthday, my girl of 27 years...I look forward to more.

On a side note, that cool looking Ludwig Vintage drum set from the 60's with a 17 inch bass drum is one of my dream sets.

Who knows, I might be able to own one soon. It could be a good gift to my youngest son who now shows interest in playing the drums. If ever he does get into it seriously, I do hope he experiences heaven the same way I did....

Rubber Legs, My Own Mortality, and Getting Back In Shape

2007-07-18T00:01:00.000-07:00

The last time I posted anything in this blog was 3 months ago. That was a month before the much awaited run bike run race I was supposed to join at Filinvest scheduled for the second week of May.

Due to the numerous distractions from my regular routine, I missed it. There was a race at the Carmona track 2 weeks before the duathlon that I had decided to join. Unfortunately, I crashed my newly painted Rudy Project Vespa twice during the practice rounds.

The first crash was a lowside crash when I miscalculated my braking at a long and sharp turn. Minor damages incurred and no injuries to my body.

The second crash was a highside crash when my throttle got stock in the process of shifting from second to third gear coming out of a chicane. I was thrown off my scoot, and I injured my left foot. With a swollen foot and big toe, I still managed to finish the race in last place. Not to mention the third heat was completed with a flat rear tire for the last 2 laps.

What a comeback! I tried racing again at my own club's trackday, but things were never the same for me. Have to shake off those butterflies in the stomach and get back to the old racing form.

This set me back major. Due to the injuries sustained, I was not able to join the duathlon and all my hard work and mileage gained during my running and biking sessions faded away.

Some say it was bad luck because I was assigned the number 13. Some say I was too eager. I say I lacked practice and my bike was going cookoo that day.

Anyway, being the tenacious person that I am, I trained as soon as I got well. My biking was again at par with my standards but my running had to improve further.

Then June came. I call it the party month. This was even worse than Christmas itself and I found myself drinking like a fish again.

At one party, about 10 of us downed 5 bottles of the dreaded agua.

To cut a long story short, I saw my fitness level fly out of the window in such a short span of time.

The coup de grace for me was when I got sick a week ago. Too much stress, lack of sleep, and to much effort to keep up with training intensity took a toll on my health.

Imagine being able to train at 60 to 70% of max HR and having a resting HR of only 48BPM? It was depressing to say the least.

Well, next time I will choose the parties that I will go to. Next time I will listen to what my body is telling me and I will apply the one step backwards two steps forward approach.

I write today to inspire myself to train again and reach my old fitness level.

I've already started running with rubber legs but with much desire to improve. Tomorrow I bike and on Saturday, I hit the trails again or probably do a reverse palace in the sky just in case the trails are wet.

I find myself lucky. At my age, I am still able to do these things. The other day, I was again reminded of my own mortality.

Our messenger died in his sleep at age 52. I still think that was a good way to go. But at 52, there are so many things to enjoy...like mountain biking, watching your kids grow, and making love to your wife.

He won't be able to do those things anymore that's for sure. But he is definitely resting in peace.

I'll post a picture of my banged up Vespa soon so you can compare it to my old photos.

Time for a paint job......

North-Zagaray

2007-04-02T00:22:00.000-07:00

I feel a bit fatigued after doing only 30 kms. at a new trail north of Manila. The place is called Norzagaray in Bulacan...not North-Zagaray as my friend would say in his text invitation.

I found the terrain quite exciting offering us a lot of surprises as we went by each trail. I liked the sudden drops the most making the ride a test of nerves as well as a test of endurance. Looking back, the weekend rides and occasional down hill escapades proved worthwhile and served as our training sessions for events such as these.

Another part of the trip that I enjoyed was the mahogany forests that provided shade amidst the blistering heat from the mid-day sun.

The heat coupled with the un-ridable uphill climbs where we had to push our bikes up were the two main factors that contributed to most of the group's exhaustion.

The third factor that I forgot was hunger, as most of us did not bring food in the trail thinking the trip would be over by lunch time.

Well the bottom line is this was another one for the books in terms of fun, adventure and improved riding skills.

As I always say, I again look forward to the next one.

Great Rides

2007-03-18T21:46:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, I rode 42Kms. on my mountain bike. I estimate it was 85% single track at the trails of Sta. Rosa, Laguna and Silang, Cavite.

I started out too fast playing a racing game with a Thai rider who out raced me in the first climb. We ended up laughing about it after exchanging high fives, a gatorade and a buko juice.

The rest of the ride was uneventful except for a flat tire, a broken chain, and an injured forearm of an American rider who fell on a barbed wire fence and probably needed stitches.

My climax of the ride was when I was thrown off my bike when I picked a wrong line at the coffee trail. The result was scratches on my left knee and dust all over my left arm and shoulder. Nothing to worry about except being left behind by the fast pack.

This is what I always look forward to. My big day, Saturday. The day when I have to hit the trails and enjoy a great ride. I have been doing this for 3 years now. I have stopped counting the rides because I can no longer remember where I stopped counting. What I can remember though is that all of them are great rides.

This what I love doing, and I will keep doing this until I can. This is why I hate parties, wakes, overnight affairs, and out of town trips. Call me anti-social, I don't care...I just want to ride my bike on Saturday, run -hit the bag-lift-do ab work on Monday and Wednesday, bike again on Thursday, back to the trails on Saturday.

Next month, I look forward to the long holiday. This means more time with the family and more time to ride...ride...ride

The “Rudy Project” Vespa

2007-03-14T22:00:00.000-07:00

Almost 5 years ago, I was a victim to my own frugality in having my Vespa painted. After 3 years of daily use, and 6 months of racing at BRC, I decided to have the paint job done by a friend for only PHP 6,500.

Being very busy at that time, and running on a very low budget, I had him do the honors. To my dismay, we did not get the paint color right for everything, and the outcome was horrific to say the least.

It was a combination of pale yellow ( as opposed to the old Italian yellow), with charcoal grey cowls, front fender, and horn cast. A far cry from what I had in mind.

Having no choice, I rode it to Banawe with Kawasaki eliminator mirrors. Coming back from the ride, I decided to have the left cowl air brush painted with my favorite band – Steely Dan. The air brush artist did a good job but painted it with enamel. To cut a long story short, in my next ride to Vigan, gasoline dripped on the artwork drawing tears from the eyes of the two Steely Dan members.

Saving factor – I said to myself, better paint the cowls in matte black, then I’ll put a front carrier in black and match it with a rear carrier with the same color. Voila! It looked better, a more utilitarian look this time but it resembled a PLDT service vehicle.

This is how my ride looked till August of 2006. After years of commuting, racing, and joining several long rides, all its battle scars were telling me it needed a paint job real soon.

Looking back, my Vespa was a looker when I just bought it. It was Italian yellow, with a black Vespa script sign on the left leg shield, and a mod target sticker on the right. All its rubber was white and it sported original continental white wall tires ( front, rear, and spare). The seat was covered in Tan, it had a Vigano rear carrier in chrome, and a rear mudflap in black and white with a Vespa script.

Moving forward, I wanted to try a sportier look having tried retro, mod, and utility, racing was my choice this time.

With a wife and 4 kids to support, a mountain bike hobby, and many bills to pay, the time was not right. One day, I had a meeting with the country manager of Rudy Project Philippines who asked me to do their online store. That was when the idea of having a Rudy Project Vespa came into my mind.

It was a good brand association, both brands being Italian. Good exposure for Rudy Project, great look for a sporty Vespa.

With that objective in mind, I rushed to my computer and did my research work taking a look at several items from their online catalog.

What caught my attention was an offroad/ downhill helmet that had spider web like stripes all over it. It had a Rudy Project logo, and the peak had “Rudy Project Racing” on it.

It did not take long for me to make a decision and I said to myself, this is the look that I want.

Having said that and having no second thoughts whatsoever, I called my good friend Nani “Dr. Scoot” Juarez to do the design concept. He finished it in a day or two then sent me an email with a drawing of how the bike would look. We both then went to Sabak sports where a drinking session of close friends was in progress, we gathered several opinions, and we came up with the final consensus of having the bike done according to Nani’s design.

To cut a long story short, I delivered the scooter to 2211 Works early August, upon receipt of the approval from Gabriele Boschi of Rudy Project Philippines.

It was a painstaking process of disassembly, preparation, cleaning and painting. Then the decals were installed and my final approval was sought.

I gave the go for the top coat to be done and lo and behold, my Rudy Project theme Vespa was finally finished.

It still had my old shaved stock Piaggio seat, Vitto side mirrors, and my old worn out signal lenses. Having studied what was needed to complete the final look, I decided to sell some of my accessories to raise cash for the stuff I needed to buy : a racing seat, a tune pipe, and round side mirrors in black.

The outcome gave a big smile to my face and as my coup de grace, I had a Rudy Project emblem sticker installed at the center of the back of my racing seat.

Future plans include upgrading to bitubo shocks, and more goodies for my engine. Meantime, I am very happy with my “Katy”, the name I gave my Vespa in 1999, and we both look forward to many more adventures.

Many thanks to : Gabriele of Rudy Project Philippines for funding the project, Nani “Dr. Scoot” Juarez for the design and implementation, the “Sabak” boys for their input, and my loving wife for giving it a thumbs up.

Pinoy Rock Icon

2007-03-13T22:55:00.000-07:00

I was supposed to post this tomorrow but had some free time after finishing my usual late lunch of 6 bananas and pineapples.

Haven't had the time to go and watch Wally Gonzalez at Chaquico's. My commitment to myself and my 3 sons to watch him play at least once a month has not been followed since January this year because of "priorities" hehe, the best excuse in the world.

It is always a blast seeing him play. The music, the ambience, brings back memories of how as a young boy, I learned to appreciate Pinoy rock music.

It was the reason why my grandfather promised me a set of drums if he won at the casino 30 or more years ago...and win he did.

He saw me beating a makeshift drum set that consisted of ice cream containers, a chinese checker board for a snare drum, and fita biscuit can covers for cymbals, playing to Juan Dela Cruz music : Super Sessions Album.

After collecting his winnings, Lolo took me to Raon in Sta. Cruz to shop for my dream drum set. To cut a long story short, our house was then filled with long haired guitar playing people. And the rest is history.

I have not played for more than 10 years except when we celebrated our company's 2nd year anniversary at the old San Mig Pub at El Pueblo in Ortigas. Tropical depression was our entertainer then, and the singer was a college schoolmate from DLSU Taft. Fortunately, he allowed me to jam 3 songs to the crowds delight. We didn't play reggae, it was the stones and a song from the clash.

Not having the time and energy to play again, Wally Gonzalez in the closest thing to playing. The best way to hear good old Pinoy Rock the way it used to be.

I love it when the notes start getting together with the groove and I start losing myself in the process. Closing my eyes, it leaves a smile on my face that makes me feel I am 13 years old again, beating ice cream containers, fita biscuit can covers, and a Chinese checker board snare drum while a vinly LP plays the Great Pinoy Antiquities.

Wally has played all the favorite tunes I can think of but he has never played the Great Pinoy Antiquities.

I will find time to go and watch with my 3 sons within the month of April, afer I finish racing my Vespa at the Carmona Race Track and afer I finish the Duathlon organized by the Sabak boys.

Maybe I should send him a text message as a request and hope that he gives in to it not realizing that it is one of my dreams to see him play this song live on stage.

I can't wait to see them play again.

Seasons

2007-03-13T20:13:00.000-07:00

It's audit season this month, followed by lent, then the dreaded rainy season.

Not sure what the reason was for putting me last in line in a long line up of companies that will be subjected to a final audit today.

Anyway, I do hope everything goes well as I always say to myself that "this will be over soon". I always say that to myself nowadays that my faith has faltered and I have found myself all "prayed out" so to speak.

So lent will be a different story this year simply because it will not be observed...speaking for myself that is.

During the days when I still believed in all the mumbo jumbo the priests have put in my mind about the catholic faith, lent was observed the way it should be : church visits, confessions, stations of the cross, and all that.

Now it will be quiet time with the family and biking up in the trails. Non of the skip the meat, walk around the village at 3:00am thing which I find silly and a waste of time and energy.

Besides, I have not eaten meat regulary for almost a year and a half so what else is new.

I have learned to believe that God is not up in the heavens. That if you sin against God you will be punished. If you do not repent, even your children and your children's children will all suffer. You will get hit by lightning and worms will come out of your eyes.

This is all cow dung to me now because I believe that God is not up there, God lives in the hearts of men. He lives there because he is the God of love.

Lenten season should be the time to reflect on the ultimate act of love a man can ever do. If we could only share this love in our homes, and everywhere we go then this world will definitely be a better place to live in.

Dreaming of Owning One

2007-03-12T22:39:00.000-07:00

A year ago, my wife and I had one of our regular lunch dates. While at the mall, she pointed out a book to me that she wanted to buy for one of our kids. To her surprise, I could not read the text from where we were standing.

She pulled me to a nearby optical shop and had the optometrist ( is that the correct title?) check my eyes. This time I was surprised when the lady told me that I needed to wear glasses.

My choice was a pair of cheap but stylish frame in brown tortoise color. I had the lenses fitted in an hour then I went back to my office wearing my first pair.

I did not stop looking for another pair after that. So I ended up buying another one at ebay via e-2-door.com at a landed price of PHP 1,500. It was a blue reebok sports frame that my wife really liked, again because of its stylish look. A pretty good deal for a good brand and unique style.

The 3rd pair was not such a great deal at all but I loved the way it fit me. Simple and comfortable in a wire frame with black color.

Ideally, I should have a pair a day. Five pairs in total for each working day. All my glasses were square and rectangular so I thought I should have something round for a change.

After searching the internet, I found my dream pair : Rye handmade british eyeglasses frames in amber havana color.

The price is quite steep selling at USD 165.00 shipping not included.

I make it a habit to visit eyeglass.com to take a peek at least every week. Who knows, in a month or so, I might post a new blog with my picture wearing a pair of my dream spectacles.

Tell you about it later...

Public Masturbation

2007-03-12T21:08:00.000-07:00

This is my first post and in all honesty, I find it hyprocritical to be doing this...posting at my own blog.

A very close friend of mine once said that blogging is like "masturbating in public". I agreed to this definition so here I am...masturbating in public.

If that's what he considers it to be then so be it. There are so many thoughts I have in my mind especially at night and I'd love to tell friends and family about them but I normally forget or simply can't find the time to do so.

So I guess that is the best reason for doing this. Share my thoughts and hope you enjoy them.

For starters, since we are in the topic of masturbation, I read in a book that God will punish you if you masturbate. It says that your hands will be turned into little wings so you can just fan it a little.

A magazine article on the other hand says that guys who are at least 40 years old should do it 5 times a week to prevent prostate problems or I hope they meant you should be able to "release" at least 5 times a week whatever the method may be because this is good for your health.

Well I suggest you show this to your wives for assistance or if you are denied, then you will have to visit the massage parlor section of manilatonight.com for "outsourcing" possibilities. The last alternative is the do it yourself method that I find hard to imagine for a man over 40.

Tell me about it so we can laugh together