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Whenever there is a beginning, there is an end. It is not what came before or how things ended but what happened in between that makes life exciting - do not change the heartaches for they are colors in your own painting called My Life. Let them be vivid and bright!

Monday, November 17, 2008

Pecan Pie

Thanksgiving Day is just over a week away or so. And boy had I had the craving for some luscious crostata pecan pie. The one I love the most. Yummers!
I have searched high and low for a pecan pie like this wherever I go and only in Southern California can I indulge myself of this particular kind. It is a you-gotta-try kind of pie. I am more of a pie person than a cake person (well, there is one cake I would never say NO to). Crostata - is a term used for making the dough or type of dough. It is not much of a floury dough but more like butter shortbread type of dough is used to complement the molasses and the excellently well-roasted (still crunchy even if it is submerged in all that molasses) pecans. It is all organic ingredients.
I like this crostata because it is a well balanced mixture of taste (sweet molasses and saltiness of the dough) and texture (syrupy and yet crunchy).
I love the experience it time. I can only eat one slice per day, but the first day I got the pie, I gave myself a big chunk just to get my craving out of the way. Man, was it ever so good.
I am telling you if you have a sweet tooth, your tooth will be happy with this.
See ya!

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Pizza and Salad...California Style

This is a San Diego Pizza by Pat & Oscar's. The dough is soft and perfect. The toppings to die for namely cheese, feta cheese, pesto sauce, red onion rings and last but definitely not the least wedges of avocado (ergo - San Diego). I mean this baby is very good. One thing that could top this is to have it with a nice cold mug of beer. But that would be too much indulgence in one night. Read on...
I guess after a long absence from California, my taste buds are dominating lots of my food choices since I got back in California.


To the right is a picture of a small (but served 2 people aplenty!) salad from the same food chain called (non-typical only-conceived-in-California) Pat & Oscars. Missed the place while I was in Buenos Aires thus my trip to this place as soon as I was able to. "M" wanted some ribs so that is the best ribs in town! And we have found it here. abck to the salad, yes....that mound of white stuff is FETA cheese, the real stuff. Something I still have to find in Argentina. Some beets (red round objects bottom right of the pix) and then a bed of iceberg lettuce (crunchy and very good), peperroncinis, kalamata olives (thus the name - GREEK salad), loads of red onions, sweet, vine ripe cherry tomatoes, cucumber rings, and an out of this world house dressing. I mean, I missed this pleasure food. Good stuff! The ribs were "M"'s and was wiped out before I can take a photo. It was at least a 5burp meal. It was so sinfully good, and good for you!!

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Snapple Green Tea

So far this Snapple drink flavour has been my lastest fave non-soda (carbonated) drink. Looove, love, love it. All natural, real tea flavor and antioxidant. How great is that?! It has all the ingredients that's good for the body and with very small amount of sugar. And it does not even taste sweet at all.
Argentina does not have this flavour but since I was introduced to this drink, I am hooked! If you are in the USA give this Snapple flavour a try. Real thirst quencher without the guilt. You can't beat that deal. My grocery always runs out of this stuff - meaning IT IS THAT GOOD!

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

My Tuesday evenings with Eli Stone

I am guilty, yes. I have been watching him closely since last year. For several months there I did not see him at all. I dread Tuesday nights when I was not stateside and I do not see him. Here it goes... I am talking about Eli Stone (in real life known as Jonny Lee Miller). I mean, WOWEE!
The man is eye candy - sweet mary mother of love. He comes on every Tuesday on ABC (sigh). My tuesdays since I got back in the US have been glorious. I miss my "R" do not get me wrong here but Eli is my new love.
I just so freakin' love the show the first time I watched the pilot episode last year. What is there NOT to like?
First there is Eli, then V. Garber (of Alias), then my all time favorite sidekick, you want this girl to be on your corner - Loretta Devine - as Eli's personal secretary, then there is Julie Gonzalo who plays Maggie - Eli's love on and off interest.
The show is brought to us by G. Berlati and M. Guggenheim and if that is not enough, The executive producer and director is Chris Misiano, the very one, yup!, who gave us the pleasure of watching The West Wing. How yummy is that.
I love the show even if I am a sworn CBS girl. I love my CSI through and through but I have this "affair" with ABS only on Tuesdays. Eli Stone is worth all that. You can take my word for it. If you have not had the pleasure of "experiencing" Eli - I am so sorry to say, are missing alot!!
The show is fresh, imaginative, good casting, very good acting, very organic in the cast's chemistry, the whole Eli Stone show is exciting, the storylines are intelligent (of course!), and for the first time since CSI, have I experienced pure clean fun of watching a TV show. You get comedy, drama, some legal terms (one might need to look up the day after), suspense and you cannot help but root for Eli.
And man when George Michael came in there (as himself) in the first episode, I was sold. I mean it was a musical, and you know what that episode worked. I loooove this show.
Jonny Lee Miller, I could never understand what he saw in Angelina Jolie to have married her in the past (he is her first husband) but by golly, I can see what she saw in him.
Eli is a lawyer who is in a mission and everything revolves around "visions". James Saito plays Dr. Chen in the show - a good yin to Eli's yan.
I have not been this excited about a show since I first laid eyes on Grissom and Brown on CSI Las Vegas and that was 7 years ago. I am sorry but it takes a lot to get me this excited about - anything!!
You gotta see Eli Stone. It always leaves me thinking and that my friend is what I like about my shows, and of course, my eye candy. Yummy!
You might be a season behind but who cares.

Monday, November 10, 2008

MEDICUS - it is service, care and more...much more

Disclaimer: This is based on my own experience.
I never endorsed any products, service or brandname in this blog. I believe I am always leary about people just jumping in and pouncing on various levels should I endorse a very specific product or brand, let alone a service.
For one, I am very hard to please. Quality counts for alot for me to be loyal to a service provider but most of all I want everyone in all levels to show me they care, that they respect me the person and not just the money I give them for the service they provide. I just do not want to be another number.
I like lots of very good company names, products and brands. I like customer service, excellent customer service at that - and consistency on this is very important to me. I am sure it is for you as well.
Then, I went to Argentina and met a Medicus Rep. She was honest, transparent and clear, to top that she was kind and courteous. Wow, what a treat in Argentina - but she is. She is always there when I do need anything. Note that my spanish is horrendous, but she made it a point to explain and re-explain insurance cost and services covered in my plan. I knew I made the right choice with Medicus, when I met Mrs. B Tort. She came very highly recommended to me. I was impressed.
My coverage is very good. I know of others who pay more than I do and they are not with MEDICUS and they do not get a great service , like I do.
Medicus is not paying me squat to say these nice things about them, nor will they be able to pay me to shut up, if I was duped and unsatisfied about their service. So there!
My coverage includes international coverage. I never get sick when I am traveling (nothing a tablet can fix) but from BsAs I was traveling with an ear infection, a recurring thing for me for the past couple of months. Nothing major. My ear just itches like crazy and when I take a shower and water gets in there, it starts to drip endlessly for days. Ergo, and ear infection. Now what am I to do, you might ask. My coverage is in Argentina with international coverage. WOW! I called a number off their website, a very nice, calm and concerned lady from their Florida number answered my call and after a couple of questions from her, and confirmation of coverage I was off to see a doctor. The phone connection at first was not that good, so she asked for my location phone number and she called me back. The doctor's visit I did not pay a cent. All I had to do show my insurance cards and ID, for Medicus already faxed to the doctor's office my pre-approval for the coverage. I just paid for the parking meter $2.80. I opted not to park at the clinic's garage for free because I did not like the dark location a block away from the building. The clinic I went to was wonderful. The doctor was great. Medicus authorized for the ear culture that the doctor wanted. I will need to go back for a final visit before I leave back for Argentina. How excellent is that?
Medicus has always been very good to me. I know they cost alot for the coverage but with a nasty ear infection even thousands of miles away they made sure I was okay.
Just now as I was typing this post my phone rang and Medicus wanted to know that I am okay and that the doctor visit was to my approval and liking. I mean if you are going to Argentina and looking for medical coverage, email me and I will hook you up with Medicus. You will not be disappointed. I am not.
I am not making a cent out of this post. I just call a spade, a spade as I see it. For all the parents whose young fresh out of college kids are headed to Argentina, contact me and I will give you my Sales Rep's number. Medical coverage is important to have at all time.
Since I am traveling all the time, I thought it prudent and wise to get international coverage (ask for effective dates after BsAs departure, I think it is 60 days or something), for here I am having been attended by a doctor with ear drops and tablets to take to rid of my infection.
Medicus, thank you very much. I really feel the concern and care.
Kudos to Ms. T and everyone that is affiliated with Medicus. BRAVO!

Saturday, November 8, 2008

Hodge-Podge

I mean REALLY! The price of gas today was $2.29/gallon. I mean if my gas tank was empty I would refill in a heartbeat. Prices of gas never looked so good as it did today. The demand for gasoline in the US of A is actually down that the prices of gasoline is going south with it. Imagine that!
One time there the price of beer was less than gasoline...and you can think of all the jokes you can conjure up with that idea.
Today, I got spammed. I hate that! And I do not want to mention names but I am starting to hate that person. She does not know me, and I do not know her from squat or squack and I opened a page in her site and BAM! I got spammed. It bums me out. Oh heck!
Carl's Jr. - I have missed my Western Bacon Cheeseburger for 6 months or so and today I had one. It felt good to indulge.
Looking forward to the weekend but it looks like rain is in the forecast. What the...? Oh well rain can be good.
Ciao. Talk to you guys tomorrow.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

days after the 2008 USA Presidential Election

Okay so I have now fully recovered from the election of '08. It was a long and herculean task for me to decide on whom to vote and prospositions "yes or no". I did it and now I am glad I did it, and it is over with.
Barack Obama is President-Elect, Oprah cried on TV, Jesse Jackson did the same, Joe the Plumber is back to oblivion, Palin is back in Alaska, and Proposition 8 will still be entangled in the courts for months if not years.
Phew! that was an ordeal not just for the candidates but for the voters as well. Wall Street is still struggling...one thing good I can say is the price of gas is down, so far today it was $2.37/gallon. Yipee!!!
I am enjoying Southern California, really and truly. I saw my BFF today and she looked great, the hubby is great and the little ones (not so little anymore) are fabulous. I love Miss! She tells me exactly that my hair looked great (and she knows I hate short hair) and that my makeup is fantastic and that my eyeliner is great. Miss will give it to me straight, she is a straight shooter. I email her when I am away but it is never the same. She looked great I give her that, after two kids (and one husband -jajaja) she is still like the way she was before her first baby. I am jealous :-)
I will definitely see her again before I leave. Miss, an honest BFF, rare as a gem, nowadays.
In other mattters...
I am enjoying pomegranates in California. If you haven't had these red, luscious seeds - you are missing something. They are my antioxidant - in the natural form. Delicious!!
And then I am enjoying the cosmetics here - if I could marry these things I will!
My aquafina water - I mean I have died and drank my way to heaven. Just pure water not minerals no nothing, pure unadulterated W-A-T-E-R! Hmm.
Ben and Jerry's ice cream - hello!! Cherry Garcia and all the flavors, just making one choice is making me gain weight. Cookie Dough anyone?
Like I said...I miss my "R" but I am enjoying California. Tomorrow, I go out and get myself a bottle of Chardonnay. I will keep a glass chilled just for you, k?
See you all guys tomorrow.
Pictures are coming....Ciao!

Friday, October 31, 2008

4 days until election day...

So, today I have finalized my vote on all the propositions on the California Ballot. But please do not ask me who I am voting for President. the jury is still out on that. Still!
Now today is Halloween in the USA. I saw adults dressed up as a viking, a poodle, a nerd, a mermaid...funny how one day a year adults really can act like children, and get away with it :-)
Not much trick o treating happening around here; the malls are a great way for kids to keep cool (AC) and still get their sugar fix. It has been hot here lately.
Oh, oh, oh...this is the first time I am going to the polling place that is noted on my sample ballot. I always wondered what is inside a Lutheran place of worship. I will update on Nov. 4th.
Well, my "R" has stuffed or runny nose and I always feel bad everytime he is under the weather. He is so good and takes very good care of himself that germs like to attack him. He is too clean I guess (if there is such a thing)!
The weekend is here and I will explore the stores that I used to haunt months or even years ago. I am sure one of them is still around and I plan to go there this weekend.
I miss Argentina, not Buenos Aires though. I miss my "R".
But Southern California is fun too. My "M" is here so I am not too bad.
Enjoy and be safe. See you all next week.
Ciao.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

You scream, I scream, we all scream for Ice Cream

It was sweltering hot in Southern California today. If I am capable of sweating I am sure I would have seen some beads of sweat on my forehead (at least) today, it was that hot. Bottled water and iced tea is a constant companion for me. I am sure I will never die of thirst, drowning maybe but thirst, NEVER!
Today after a hot morning and a bad craving for something chocolatey, lo and behold I passed by a Baskin Robbins. It was like a sign ....that it was ok for me to have a scoop of ice cream and not deprive myself (notice the self convincing language...) of this little bit of indulgence.
So I made that u-turn so nicely and then pulled up to the parking lot of a strip mall and there it was Baskin Robbins, it conjures up images of that pink spoon..and sinfully tasty Jamoca Almond Fudge. ...(drool)...
So, I entered the ice cream parlor and I was the only one there. The server was a nice young man eager to help a lost soul like me....haven't had ice cream for over 2 weeks now.
So I thought let me try a very popular flavor before I consider my "old" faves. I tried the Apple Pie. It was good with real chunks of apple but "ala mode" as they call it was not to my liking. I passed. So there I was considering the green pistachio beckoning my weak sense of self control, but NO, I came in for my Jamoca Almond Fudge and that is all I am going to get. One scoop, please.
I thanked the young man who helped me and took my one scoop to go, pink spoon and all.
I got home and the ice cream was exactly as I had remembered it. For the last time I stepped into this same ice cream parlor was 6 years ago, and it was as finger likin' good as I had remembered it. Happy memories. Good taste and very good ice cream.
Not as great as Munchi's nor Persicco but Baskin Robbins hold a special place in my heart. And for that alone, it was delicious.
Now I do not feel as hot anymore. If you are ever in the California give this ice cream parlor a swirl - a try. Just once, and they still have 31 flavors. I am sure if the memories that goes with it is as sweet as my own, it would be worth remembering, forever.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Home stretch

I am wondering if I am alone on this. The fact that here we are close to the Presidential Election of 2008, days away, down to the wire, close to the home stretch and yet...I have not decided who I am voting for President. I have been undecided since day one and will still be to the last day. It is not that I am hoping I choose a candidate that will win, that is not why I am voting but I am still undecided who of the candidates IS qualified to resurrect this once glorious country back to it's full glory. (sigh)
I am not voting because of race, never entered my mind. I am not voting because the party has a WOMAN as a veep candidate, I am not sexist either, never entered my mind.
I wanted Hillary C. , there I said it.
Now I have to settle for second-best. But why?
Nader is really starting to look very appealing now that we are close to November 4th.
Where is Ross Perot when you need him, huh?
I will go to the polls, do not get me wrong. There are propositions that I am strongly against. And I want to make sure my vote is counted against those propositions that are just plain wrong.
But for president, I think I would need a moment of clarity to make my choice. I was so clear and so decided when I voted for Bill Clinton. I want that experience and so far, no hits.
Oh well, I guess, I go and vote and wait for the next time when Hillary runs for President again, and this time, the democrats will know better.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Halloween

Growing up in the Philippines, Halloween was never a major holiday. It evokes images of ghouls and all the things that are scary. I liked the idea of getting candy and dressing up with face painting but again, it was never that big when I was growing up.
But when I came to the US and had a toddler who was never introduced to candy until he was couple of years old, it was only then that I got into the tradition of fixing up the house and the lawn in preparation of the trick o' treaters. Kids would come from blocks away just to get candy. Often times i would see "older" kids trick o' treating. When my own punkin' grew up, we nixed the Halloween idea. Trick o treaters still came but it was not much fun anymore. It became too much hassle really. Living in a house meant more preparation for these types of holidays than living in say a condominium. You get less kids walking up to your door in a gated community.
That said and out of the way, I remember my own punkin's sheep outfit that was a blast. That was an all time fave.
Then there was the Power Ranger outfit and a very good friend dressed as Princess Jamine o some princess like that - made a lovely costumes. Again all in the past and the dinner my cousin and I feasted on while the kids were out trick o treating was something we still speak about to this day.
Halloween hold different meanings to different people, I guess. For me I just love to think about kids being kids and TP-ing your house if you do not give out good treats. And then egg-ing a house if they do not give candies at all. I never trusted those who gave raisins or apples or popcorn balls for treats. I mean, geez, give us a break and buy a bag of real chocolates!
Now as I sit here decades later, I am just content to wear my Happy Halloween tshirt with a nice orange pumpkin design on it and look festive, and still act my age. :-)
Happy Halloween. Stay safe during trick o' treating.

Monday, October 27, 2008

My visit to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles)

Lots of jokes and comedies have been written about the DMV but I found that my experience with it here in Southern California has all been positive and very efficient.
Yes, you have to stand in line (ONLY if you did not get an appointment online or over the phone) but you always have that option. And I love options!
So there I was, waiting for the line to inch along, as I had decided to finally update my DMV file with my new address (old NEW address). So I was behind a lady who probably forgot to put on some sunscreen coz she was all wrapped up in a jacket under the hot, blazing California sun. So we were moving along and then in less than 20 minutes, it was my turn and I spoke with a "techinician" at the front desk and she gave me a form and a card to fill out and BAM! I was done. I mean efficiency was never spelled easier than how I did it today at the DMV. Gotta love the USA for that.
Lots of people standing in line with some agenda in line and the "techinicians" know that time is money and MONEY is time. That line was moving like a well greased machine. One after the other, forms all handy, pens handy, questions and answers and all the time the DMV people handing out information, forms and booklets were with a smile on their faces and concern in their voices. Wow, I thought, I miss this kind of service. (sigh) Some places can really learn alot from this place. And DMV has improved since the last time I got my license 2 or more decades ago.
You have to hand it to them, they know where the money is and they treat you well in there. Now that is service. I mean people dole out their cash for fees without even feeling the pain since dang it - service was great!
It was hot, the line was long but who cares, they took care of my needs. Kudos to the DMV.
I love the comedies and jokes about the DMV but I know what my reality is - service was great.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

2008 General Election (Proposition 8 in California)

Well, here we are less than 2 weeks before we head to the polls and do out civic duty and exercise our right to choose. The Presidential Election of 2008 is just around the corner. I pretty much know whose name I am filling in for President and Veep. So that is that!
But as I go over my Sample Ballot and trying to be up to speed with the various propositions that are on the ballot, I find that more and more issues are turning up and they are getting bizarre each election period. There are an astounding 11 Propositions on the ballot and four more - Prop A, B, Q and R. I am talking State and County of San Diego propositions here. Man, my head starts spinning on the verbage and what "no" really means and a vote for "yes" does not really mean a YES. Got that? Good, coz so far I have read this thing twice and I still have to figure out what my NO really means.
Let us take Proposition 8, a proposition placed on the ballot in California to address the recent approval of same-sex marriage. Of course, Prop 8 is against same-sex marriage.
It is so stated, that Propositon 8 "eliminates right of same-sex marriage couples to marry".
Meaning there will be a constitutional change (State of California) for this amendment. It is also said that at present time only marriages between a man and a woman is valid and recognized in California.
This proposition has only fueled a good number of gay people getting married before the election.
So once and for all, the good citizens of California will decide if a marriage between 2 men or 2 women can be recognized as legal in this State. I believe the issue is just that - legality. The government is never really into the morality issue of things, or have they?
If the marriage between same sex couples are seen as legal then it follows that all the benefits a spouse is supposed to have each one gets; and remember they pay taxes too as a couple, should they choose to be. I think, it is about time we really think of this particular proposition as what it means in legal terms. My vote will come down to the wire. The ads on t.v. are real nasty and if I get fed up with one, I will for sure choose the other. What that means, I do not know. I have heard of some lawn signs disappearing and being vandalized.
This is a historic vote I guess, for those who are physically present in California, I mean; and can vote in local issues, because once and for all we are part and will partake in voting in for a constitutional change. For either way it goes, things have happened in the last few months in the State level on this issue that will define how we will move forward as a nation and as a State.
Change is now and we are in it. Every single one of us. What a country, huh?
No matter what they say about the great olde USA, there is no country better than this one. And California, though times are tough here, it is not as bad as they have it in Michigan. My dreams became a reality here, my next generation is here and the hope of the future is still in the youth of this county and millions of them will go and cast their ballot on November 4th, 2008. What a great country!

Saturday, October 18, 2008

What is Southern California like this time of the year?

It has been hot/ dry heat since I arrived on the 14th. Southern California is sunny. It is cotton Tshirt and jeans (and open sandals) type of weather. I love it! What is there NOT to love right?
I love California, REALLY. People can say whatever they want and bash this place but you know what I live 6 miles to the beach and I know the best Japanese restaurants that make tuna sushi and chirashi and I am good. For bonus points I know the best makeup stores around, the best jewelry store in town. I know the best vietnamese place, thai place and mexican burrito place.
I have been enjoyin every moment since I arrived. I have not been here for 6 months and I miss it. My friends are here and after all these errands I need to do, I will enjoy their company and share meals with them. Customer service is EXCELLENT.
Okay, so why am I saying this you might wonder. I like Argentina but I am not too crazy about the city of Buenos Aires. I love the open country and in Southern California, it has been laid back here lately. I see more people in restaurants at my spa and of course at the grocery. I am not sure what recession people are talking about, but people are spending money in places that I have been going to. The car lots were full of prospective new car buyers. I had to wait for awhile at the service department at a local car dealership. Not sure why there was a lull (supposed) in the economy 2 months ago but the buying public is out en force. Target has lots of shoppers, Walmart was packed, Nordie's had a long line, MAC make up store was by appointment only. I mean people have money and they are spending it. Maybe not as much as before, but women are spending money. I have never seen so many women driving 2009 brand new E Class cars and swanky Beemers, more than ever.
Shoe stores are packed, electronic stores are packed and most especially Apple stores are full of people. Victoria Secret did not have a sale but women came in droves. The parking lot of my favorite mall was full.
Halloween is here (almost) and lawns are decorated as always to welcome the trick o treaters on the last day of October.
Southern California is great this time of year, it is hot but the heat is dry. My makeup stays in place a very important thing for me.
Cotton clothes and shirts especially, I just love wearing bright colored clothes.
Argentina is hot now as I have been told, but there is no Jamba Juice Argentina. My guilty pleasure this last 3 days have been MY BEER. I cannot tell you what it is. I take it with a wedge of orange in a nice frosted iced cold thick beer glass...HEAVEN ON EARTH.
California...people have come from all over the world to see this place - I like it, and I am sure you will to.
Ciao. See you another day, k?

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Flying with DELTA Airlines

I left Buenos Aires airport heading to the Northern Hemisphere on Monday, a holiday in Argentina. There were lots of people (passengers) but unlike even a year ago, the travellers from Buenos Aires to the USA are diminishing in numbers. Say what you want but being a passenger in a large plane with lots of unoccupied seats says something - you decide what it means.
Well, I flew with DELTA, and considering that I still had my reserved seats on the first leg of my trip was pretty good. I sat next to a guy who was sweaty but after the AC kicked in it wasn't that bad. He did not snore nor talked too much (an added bonus). He was polite and got up only once to go the lavatory. Pretty much he did his reading and went to sleep. I never liked airplane food so I do not eat them and so I have nothing to complain about. I got half a cup of water and a sip of ginger ale and pretty much that was my meal for the 10 hour flight. I slept alot, I give you that. I just zonk out and I make a point that I do that. I am tired but at least I look fresh because I slept. Delta airlines has always treated me kindly. They change my seats and switch me around but who cares, if they do not care about me, why should I care about them. I just am passive about it all. Service was so-so. Nothing too exceptional to write about. The stewardesses were not rude or anything. They are doing their job and as a passenger, I just try to stay out of their way and let them do their job and I just sleep there on my seat. Now if I am flying business class or something fancy like that, I am sure they would treat me better, but I am not, so no biggie! REALLY.
So then I got to Georgia and then caught my connecting flight it was all on time the arrival and departure and I got to the West Coast safe and sound. The ginger ale was a nice touch, I wanted just a small amount and I got exactly what I wanted with one cube of ice. Perfect.
I am not one to complain when I am travelling. I think those that travel expect too much.
It is a confined space with loads of people, what would you expect Hilton service? C'mon?!!
So as long as I catch all the flights and should be there - great.
In other words, Delta got me to where I wanted to go. No bells, no whistles. Thanks Delta.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Northern Hemisphere

Well, today is the day that I leave for the US for a short 5 week or so visit. I am excited and my "R" has said the proper goodbyes.
I am coming back to Argentina soon. But I will not think about that right now, I have a trip to get ready for and I will concentrate on that for now.
Am I excited? Yes, I am. I love the USA and I enjoy California. I miss my Southern Cali friends and their kids. And doing lots of the things on my TO DO LIST.
This past few months here in Argentina has been most exciting for me. I have learned to cook Argentinian food with Alejandra's help. And I have seen "C" a couple of times. I have watched the fence around the house go up (por fin!!) and the planting of some lingostrina on one side of the house. I have also seen the tables that a very nice carpenter (older gentleman) made as per our request, I have attended mass with the locals of this small city, I have dared to drive several times to Capital Federal. Wow, those were loads of new things for me, and I enjoyed every second of it. I have also started a very good workout schedule. I love it!
Now that I am headed to Cali for a few weeks, I look forward to seeing my "M" and the SantaFe,
having my beer of choice, some tacos and burritos, some burgers, authentic japanese food, thai food and driving to the malls. I know I will have a great time.
"R" is very kind to allow me to go to the US to see what needs to be taken cared of. Sometimes things are off balance but be it in the Southern Hemisphere or Northern Hemisphere, I love both places not because of where I am really as much as who I am with.
Thank you for such a great few months, for keeping me company in here.
I wish I had some stories to tell about tango and milongas and parties in Buenos Aires, but I am just plain homebody who loves to try new stuff but keeping it within the REAL kind, like friendship, culinary and relationships stuff.
I wished I am learning tango but I am not. I know people who love and die for it, it is just not me. I would rather cook and learn new recipes with a local and learn the language and drive around in search of a better verdulero or a carniceria..that kind of stuff. Oh and having a great time at the local panaderia, when I try to practice my castellano.
I will miss you all but I am sure I will post from the US.
I know, I still owe you guys a photos. I will work on that for the next few weeks.
Chau. Until another day.
Take care.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

A little bit of this, a little bit of that and little pat of butter....

I am serving a hodge-podge of stuff today, yeah, just like always.
We finally got the alambrado up and "por fin". After a long and frustrating experience with those that are supposedly pro at this the ones that were recommended to us at first we just alhambrado guys from hell. The one that is right of the PanAmerica was a*****e supreme. He did not want to give us back our deposit after lying to us for one full day on why they were not able to show up to install our chainlinked fence. Well, story short the a**hole, had to give us back our money and we moved on, after telling a few very relevant people of how he "almost" wanted to screw us. The gall!
Well, like I always say, things always work out for the best - and today we got the best installation we could ever hope for. Perfect job, very good owner, and the workers were detail-oriented. We are happy to say the very least.
I have been learning to shop, prepare and cook loads of Argentinian dishes. Today was an exceptional experience, if ever you are in the market for a recipe with spinach and fish, I have one to die for. Email me and I would love to share the details with you. D'lish!!
And next up is my trip to the US in a few days or so. I am excited to see my "M" in there. It has been awhile since we saw each other, I am sure he has grown. :-)
With all the rumblings and slowing of the economy, I am sure things will be slower but I look forward to a change in pace , even just for a few weeks or so. Then we will have to see what my return to Buenos Aires would look like. With the visa fee that I am expected to pay, I am not even sure what my next step is...but let me think about it for another day.
Ciao.

Thursday, October 2, 2008

April showers bring May flowers...oops..wrong hemisphere!

Spring is here in Buenos Aires. It began Sept 21st. Load of sunny days after the first day of spring but on the 28th, it rained. A much needed rain. The land around the ourskirts of Capital Federal have been dusty and arid lately, the rain was a relief to them I am sure. And today it is the 2nd of October, it has rained on and off for the last couple of days. The car is dirty, heck most cars are dirty. But today, God bless us all the sun is out - glorious!!!
So if springtime begins at the latter part of September, when do the May flowers show up I guess, this month? I was so glad to remember this ryhme when I was in the US because I know when is what..now..rains in September bring October flowers...nah...! does not sound good..you know what I mean...oh well..,.
And then...let us talk for a second about the beef in Argentina lately..I mean I would never talk bad about the beef in Argentina, but a few years ago, they have been so good and so...what is the word..perfect?! But lately now that I know a couple of carniceros in my neck of the woods (literally) I am disappointed to see the not so great quality of beef that I have been admiring in the years past. I thought now having a kitchen and cooking at home, it would provide the best ingredients in the meat department - but surprisingly I have been not so happy with it. There is the perfect carne picada especial and all that but the bone with the meats kind of cuts - what happened to those. I see almost second rate beef cuts flooding the market..where have all the good cattle gone? Up in smoke when all the ranchers are not growing soy? Just asking.
Here is another doozy one for you....today coming in Capital Federal, we had to take an autopista (toll road) and there are several lanes Pase (for cars with toll passes), Manual ( where you can pay with any denomination if you want change back) and then there is the Pago Exacto (pay EXACT toll - meaning do not expect the toll keeper to make change). But as always there are some drivers who just get on the wrong lane and do the wrong thing. I mean, would they let me get away with that if I did that? Why are the locals setting a bad examples to the foreigners like me? So if they throw trash out the window and I know it is wrong, but hey, he is a local and he does it - that means it is okay for me to do it as well. As they say...when in Rome, do as the Romans do.
I do not get the whole rebel without a cause kind of attitude around here. Remember that the rebel, James Dean, did die in a car accident.
Cuing on the PAGO EXACTO for a 2.20peso toll and then waiting for the change for a 5peso, is mind boggling. Why do something like this and then you hear people honking their horn because 3 idiots ( I got tired of being nice here) decided to do this. I mean come on people. You want all the visitors of your country to behave better than you and you trash and set bad examples. What gives?!
The honking to another car is just plain imbecile behaviour. There is really no excuse for pressing that horn. Be patient. For a country that hardly does anything on time, there seems to be a lot of people in a hurry to do what - NOTHING! Hilarious in a pathetic kind of way, come to think about it. BUt hey, it is your country, trash and cheat as much as you want, if you do not care, why should I right?
I follow your lead. And be warned that if you do anything stupid, that does not mean I will follow you. I will just adapt to your ways to make my life easir, just like you do.
I know I will be happier. Have you counted how much "I" have used the pronoun in the last paragraph. Tells you that id rules here, and alot!
Then let us go and visit... new TV Season...in the US...I am excited to see what I can catch and what I have missed in my shows ...would you believe I made a concious effort not to have a TV or cable here in Buenos Aires and believe it or not, I can live without it.
Things are good between me and "R", he knows I love him and I know he loves me. And for now that is all we need to know.
Ciao y'all.
Another day. Take care.

Monday, September 29, 2008

And then...

Man, a lot of things can happen in 15 days.
I apologize sincerely to the few people who really follow my blog :-) for my long absence, things are just in a lull lately and there is my spanish class to study for and other "stuff" to keep at bay.
Well let us see...there is today's bailout plan that failed in the US Congress, there was that news of Scarlett J. Reynolds being married to Ryan, there was the passing of Paul Newman and the plummeting of the stock markets worldwide...what a melange of events, and I would like to say that most of these happened in one day or 3 days tops. Wow, indeed.
I do not like to state my politics overtly because I leave that to the pundits who really know who or what they are talking about or can really fool us to think that.
I am just now certain more than ever that November's election is very important to me because my child's future is hanging on the balance here. The next working generation might not know it yet but if Mommy and Daddy do not vote this time, forget a "future" financially, we are going down the drain - literally.
I might live in Buenos Aires majority of the year but deep down I am still an American citizen. There is no use denying that. My child is there, born and raised in the US of A. I am a Filipina by birth and love that country still but I think I know where I really want to be.
I am not saying anything bad about Argentina, it is just that I am still learning the country and its people, it might take me sometime to do that, but I am willing and able. But at this moment, USA is my country of allegiance. People who speak ill of that country only define it by the bad governing of some and they fail to see how wonderful and kind people there can be. After all, I do have friends there that I care very deeply about. People I do not talk alot about but keep in constant communication with because there is a connection that distance cannot separate.
The chaos in the US, please allow me to say this is a self-correcting process that has to happen to remind everyone that when things are not what should be, nature will take its course and correct what needs to be straightened out to keep the balance of things. Monetary, financial or government wise. There is always a time for everything and everything has its time. I think more sacrificing is in the way. What the US feels now is also felt around the world because whether we like it or not the market has been global for quite sometime and when one major player falls ill everyone catches the fever.
Christmas is coming, I hope people who had thought so much about themselves lately would think about others for a change. And maybe we can all avoid this mess we are in right now.
Well....and then reality kicks in...money you know is not the root of all evil but it IS THE LOVE for money that is the root of all evil.
Do we really think that Argentina does not feel the ill effects of what happened in the US?
I thought for a moment there the stock market here in Buenos Aires also went down. But maybe I too am mistaken.
Another day...sooner, I promise.
Ciao.

Sunday, September 14, 2008

The Quest for Happiness and Forgiveness

This weekend was extra special. "R's" best friend, "C" came over for dinner, spent the night and then cooked asado for us the morning after. If it was any other person, it would have just been a simple sleep over (though at this age, I doubt it if they call it that anymore) but since it was "C" it meant extra special to "R". I am not going into the details of the friendship but I too have only known "C" by association. All these years I have a special spot in my heart for "C". He embodies a virtue that I would only wish to achieve (a quarter of) in this life time, and that he finds perpetual happiness in every little thing even the darkest moments that life can throw him. Like a cat, no matter how you throw and toss the cat around, they always land on their feet - "C" is like that. He is always generous with this smile and the warmth in this hugs and his soft, kind and tender words; all in spanish of course. Everytime I think of him and how he is one of the few people in my life that when I hug and I say, I missed you or that I love you, I really mean it from the bottom of my heart. There is no lying with "C". He is so true to me as "R's" lady that I can not help but reciprocate the "realness" that is in him. He left in the afternoon after a sumptous lunch, "R" took him back to the city. I never hesitate to tell "C" that I want him to know that I love him. Life is so short and that you never know when that person might ever see you again. He is one special person and in his heart he always has that smile.
One thing I really have been drawing some spiritual strength from lately is my church. I go to church at the city close to our house outside of BsAs. At first I decided to start going to church because I have always done it as a little girl and then during my stint in the US, I would attend it during Thanksgiving, Christmas and birthdays. But when I found this church in the outskirts of the city in the suburbs, I knew I found what I was looking for. It was always in me, the need to connect to a more spiritual level. I went to school run by nuns most of my academic life. I grew up in a Catholic home. The first few times I went to this church ( remember I am still learning spanish) I copied everyone in what they said and what they did. Prayers pretty much are universal and the celebration of Holy Mass has taken on a new meaning for me, lately. Church is my refuge when I am about to loose control of myself during situations that bring me sadness and verge of frustration. I went to church today. Knowing I needed it more than before. I went to bed the night before (Saturday) thinking I will attend Mass the next day. But the morning of, I knew I had to go badly. The day was not starting out right as I had thought it would. So before I could say anything I would regret, I took a deep breath and decided to get ready for church. The best decision I have made today. I needed to feel and dedicate the sacrifice and hear the affirmation that as long as I can I will make the sacrifice for the love that is good.
Sometime now, "R" and I would be in a situation that we are not both happy at the same time. Church has been very good for me and my spirit. I like going alone. I need that connection for myself and so far "R" has been very respectful of this request of mine.
I pour my heart out in prayers. I feel at home when I am in church. My sacrifices and self control has more meaning and are validated. I see the bigger picture now, even if others around me do not. I understand better why I have to be the one to make the sacrifice and not expect others to make them for me. Today the sermon after the Holy Gospel was about Forgiveness ( how appropriate is that !) . It struck a cord in me and in my heart when I was listening to this and I understood every word the priest was saying. Forgiveness is an act of love, he said. Those who do not ask for forgiveness when they have done you wrong - do not really love you. And unless they do ask you for forgiveness, those people only love you conditionally. Love like what we hear about in church is unconditional. And when you truly love someone you have to learn to forgive. People only quest for THEIR happiness and everytime you do something wrong, it displeases them and that makes them unhappy. And unhappiness likes company. But who thinks about you? Love that is shared in the celebration of Mass, has made me understand that my happiness does not depend on another person, it is within me. And I have to be happy to bring happiness to others. I have to know how to forgive so when someone comes and asks for forgiveness I would know what to give and I too shall know how to ask for forgiveness. Whom you forgive is not important. You have to forgive those that have hurt you. That is the only kind of forgiveness there is.
Today, I have for the first time my thought was confirmed that people who are around me do not define me, I define me. There are people out there that cannot stand me to be happy, they find ways to create some unhappiness in my life. I have forgiven then, for not to forgive them is weak. And I am not weak. The attribute of forgiveness is for the strong, Gandhi stated that. The feeling of jubilation when I learn lessons that enlighten my thinking, fulfill my life are precious. I have found a home for my body but I my life will be enriched that I have found a home for my heart and spirit. Moments like this make any burden I have in my heart lighter. Wow, I thought, how perfect could going to church be. It was like my prayers and my seeking for guidance was heard and here I was sitting in the last pew at church and the sermon is addressed to me. Talk about divine powers!
This weekend was very good to me because I went to church.
I could not wish for a better way to end my Sunday.
Ciao.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

The devil is in the details!

The weekend - it was a learning experience. My "R" and I are good, very good. We have "hiccups" in our relationships every now and then, but it keeps us both real. I learn from what any heartache I go through and I am sure he does as well. Forgiveness is the pillar to any relationship, I have read somewhere. And as long as there is the true and devoted love we have to each other (not to anyone else -but to each other) I am sure it would take a lot to dissolve this relationship of ours! He and I, rock! So there, forgiveness, sacrifice and understanding can really go a long way.
Then today is Thursday - though it reminds us all of the Sept 11, 2001, I conquered a big task today. I drove from the burbs to the City of Buenos Aires (Belgrano); all by myself (and 2 CDs on the player!). I made it. Unbelievable. And yeah, it was raining, did I mention that? It was.
All I can say is - it was great. I never liked driving much but today was an adrenalin-pumping trek. I loved it! I called "R" after I had gotten to my place and the car is safely parked at the parking garage around the block. Boy, was it great. The traffic is as usual but I had a great time with it. It kept me alert and driving in safe speed made the travel good.
Now the sun is out. After a very grayish morning it is sunny at 2pm. Today is a memorable day for me, I was able to go to the city and drive through the labyrinth of traffic and fast and slow cars and get here to my place - what a day. I loved the challenge and a little fear helped me immensely. It was a test and I hope to repeat the experience tomorrow.
"R" would be so proud. And I kept hearing the voice of "R's" Dad, saying years ago that I can do it and that I have no fear. I do but it served me very well. I was driving as I know I would. Oh yeah and it helped that in the Philippines people sort of drive like the same way here :-)
Well, that is my update for now. Diet is going well, missed 2 days of yoga but will make up for one tonight and tomorrow I do the stairmaster.
Veggies are great and I eat just a tad bit of meat now; but I still love the cheeses and fruits.
See you another day, k?
Ciao.

Friday, September 5, 2008

When it rains, it pours....

Not sure why I titled this post as such but I think it is relevant to what I am going through right now. When it is aches we are talking about I have had a deluge of them lately, but when good things happen, it also comes in abundance...so when it rains..it pours..
Thank you very much, but my lunch was so good. A very good crispy but sweet pear and some slices of mortadella with pistachio and a good (5) selection of hard cheeses. Lunch was very good! I had water. Laterly, my lunch has been going through a major overhaul because of the diet I am in. Lunch is to be filling but not carb heavy at all. Sometimes I have steamed veggies, good too with some grated reggiano parmesan...yummy!
Oh, last night as I was steaming some very crunchy asparagus, I thought, people who think they are stuffing themselves with pastries, cakes, candies, bread and soda are having the most of life, they are so wrong...now I know that. It is not inexpensive to go on a life altering diet. Veggies, cheese, tofu, good chicken (with out skin) and good beef and excellent fruits cost money. I was thinkning if people had more money they would be on a diet. Don't you think?
I am not here to tell you that having a svelte body is the reason I went on this diet. My doctor of a father wanted to make sure I was doing it for the right reason (notice, I did not say, reasons). And I am, for health reason only. Now that I am on this diet, and excercise regimen, I have more energy for longer walks and not sleepy in the afternoon. I can concentrate more when reading and I sleep better. And I thought it was great that I started this diet in Argentina, because the selection of fruits and veggies here (and very good quality - at least from my own verdulero) is optimum to my goals. The sweet cravings was something I was worried about but with oranges and mandarin oranges that are sweeter than sweet, who needs alfajores?! And then I do not have the craving for soda, since I have been off them for 3 years and then one day I picked up a Pepsi and I was downhill from there 2 months.
Well it is Friday and we are off to the burbs. I am looking forward to quality time with my "R". My skin feels great and looks great, the countryside will surely help me more on that regard. I promise to relax this weekend, and not let anything get between me and the good time I will have with "R".
My meals for the weekend are pre-planned and that is the best way to go about dieting I think. Pre-plan so you do not end up eating whatever is handy and those usually are not very good for me. I do not have any cookies, crackers or sweets in the house. Don't have them, won't eat them, you know?
So, let us see what the next few days bring. I miss my "R" and I know he misses me - he tells me. So here we go...I am sure being together in one house will help our predicament. I will just try to focus on what I need to do for our UNIT and get that stronger and things will fall into place. Things always work out for the best, you know.
It will be good I know, it surely could not be any worse than being away and apart from each other. Coz for two people who so belong together, we have been spending alot of time apart. Not good, not good at all. So here we go..
See you Sunday? Another day, y'all.
Ciao.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

For a Wednesday, it was not bad; it was pretty good, if I might say so myself.

Wednesday was a pleasantly full of suprises.
Well, I started fairly early, got up and did the yoga for 15 minutes and then shower and then some "work". Emails, homework, etc.
"R" was kind, very kind to ask if I think there is something on the Fujisan restaurant on Mendoza at Chinatown that would suit my diet, and after a couple of seconds, I said "yes" and so off we went to Chinatown. We took el colectivo 15. It stops right in front of the restaurant from where we took the bus. The resto "cerrado" was actually open. We sat and enjoyed a very nice and peaceful but sweet (lovely) lunch together. He seemed to like his food and I had to give him my rice (not allowed in my diet) and then some extra here and there. My te verde frio was actually good but he liked his Oolong iced tea better (rojo frio, the called it on the menu). Then to top that lovely lunch we went to the Chinese store across the street from the resto to look for his Oolong tea. Well I made this suggestion to go to our usual Chinese Store, well they did not have it there too. I ended up getting alfalfa sprouts, dill and then 1/2 of a small cabbage - salad ingredients and some for stir fry veggies.
Then he took me home and we did a quick errand together, I had to go to the store to get some meat for dinner (and maybe lunch for the next day). And then we said "adios, chau, bye".
He left and I headed back home and finished my homework (spanish), well when I looked up the clock it said 6pm or something a little past. I had to text "R" to ask if I am seeing him today coz tomorrow is a very crazy busy (his terms, not mine) day. There are furniture to be delivered and received at various locations. I am not seeing him tomorrow coz of this, so for Wednesday it was not bad , it was pretty good if I may say so myself.
I am happy and tomorrow is another day.
Ciao. Take care. Toodles!

Updates..

Hi y'all. So far the diet is coming along very well, have good energy during the day, not lethargic in the afternoon, no craving for sweets or chocolate in mid-afternoon and I sleep much better, now that I am eating healthier. And for good measure, I threw in a 15-20 minute yoga stretching routine in the mix. I feel very good before that morning shower. There is nothing like a very good sweat before a nice cooling shower.
There is one 'indulgence' I cannot quite get rid of - morning coffee. Well, no cigarettes, no bread, no sweets of any kind, no pasta, no soda, no alcohol - and others, at least a cup of coffee in the morning is okay - for now... at least. All my eating modification (diet) successes in the past always included coffee, my body I think is fueled with coffee and not blood..jajaja..
Now, regarding my "R" and our "situation" (notice how all are in quotation marks?) well, there is nothing to update, we are at an impasse. Not forward but not backwards, and definitely nothing sideways. Status Quo - I am not too fond of this stage on anything that pertains to life. As a Pisces, it is not my nature to standstill. Born under the sign of the fish, I never actually "swim" backwards, always forward. Vamos a ver! We will see what progress we will have this week.
Now for my spanish class - it was wonderful a delight, the positive thing lately that has happened to me. I did this long essay type homework, and I did it all by myself. My professor was very pleased with the effort and my writing style. I did not stick to simple sentences, I elaborated and was successful at it. I made some simple mistakes but I was able to use some " big words" that were outside of my comfort zones but loved every moment of the writing process; I had fun writing it (I am a journalism graduate after all) and sharing it with my teacher. We both had fun learning about his particular topic of my homework, the city of Manila.
Oh, I spoke with my father in the Philippines, needed to hear his voice and love. He is the only person that loves me without if, ands or buts about it. I am stronger today because I spoke with him yesterday. There is something to be said about people who loves you and does not ask any questions or declares statements that make love conditional. My father is the greatest!!
Well, that is all for now. I am working on tomorrow's homework, lots of reading and memorizing, but I have some very good music on and no interrruptions. Then lunch and then maybe a longer than usual walk around my neighborhood.
Hoping that "R" does not ask to visit me today. Just much better if we take our time and wait until we have real longer time together than just a minute here and there; not so nice feeling on my part when as soon as he arrives, he looks at this watch and figures what time he needs to leave. Again, I am just hoping "R" does not ask to visit me today. But if he does, I am sure he will be quick, so no prob. I have loads of reading and studying to do, in all honesty. And tomorrow, I know I will not see him, he is off to the burbs.
I cannot even begin to plan for the weekend, it is only Wednesday. Friday is a couple of moons away.
I liked the goodtimes better than the badtimes we are having right now. What we have no suck, big time. (sigh).
Another day...
Ciao.

Monday, September 1, 2008

Heartache shared is half the pain, but happiness shared is doubled!

It has been a tough day. A nagging thought will not go away. I tried to go to sleep last night but cannot shake this thought. Today, Monday marks one week since I decided to stay in the city for a little bit longer than desired. My "R" and I hardly spent 6 full hours together in the last 8 days.
Where is all this going? It could not be good for the "unit". We are falling apart in the seams. Being apart is never good for any relationship.
There is enough blame for everyone to share on this situation, and I am sure even "R" will agree with that.
Not sure what solution will be taken this time. I leave in a few weeks.
That nagging thought just will not go away. (sigh).

Sunday, August 31, 2008

August 31st 2008

I have 1/2 an hour left before this month is over and I thought I should take a quick peek in here to tell you all that Buenos Aires n August 31, 2008 was a wonderful and warm day. It felt like spring, it was lovely. I had jeans on and a blue and yellow top with no jacket. It was fabulous day.
Well, we will see what next month brings (tomorrow). I hope no mosquitoes (Swatted my first one tonight!). But no worry - FUYI is here to the rescue.
I promised myself that for the rest of the year, I will do what makes me happy. Life is too short really to dwell on things that make me miserable. I just seige the day and make it as positive and fun and good. If people want to dwell on negative, they can do that at their own time - without wasting any of mine. Hooray for the 31st of August it was a splendiforous day!!
Thank you "R" for spending some time with me. I am one happy Mama.
See ya another day. Ciao.

Saturday, August 30, 2008

..and the process continues...

Well, well, well. Did you all see what happened yesterday? I mean McCain choose a woman Veep. And an Alaskan Governor to boot, at that. Now this is the "shot in the arm" this race needed, something juicy and heartracing event like this makes the idea of looking forward to veep debates and preez debates more...exciting?! We will see...I almost had so much fun with the news yesterday, that I just had to go ...oh yeah,baby!! Obama or McCain, Biden or Palin, not sure but I wanted a woman in that mix in there somewhere. I have a "copla" months to think about it.
OK...next topic. I am going on a diet, low carb diet. Loads of fruits and veggies, strike the white bread, corn, potatoes (fries like chips are potatoes, I was told!), anything with crust and dough, breaded pieces of meat, desserts are OUT but low carb fruits are in, I must have 3x of that each day. Fiber, potassium and a tad bit of sugar (to avoid body sugar lows). My body was telling me it was time to loose some extra weight and salt is mostly the culprit since the food in BsAs are loaded with salt and for a woman my age, I retain everything except information for my brain.! The only consolation to the whole diet I am in is the fact that pasta (tad bit only and 2x a week only!) and butter are allowed. No margarine allowed. Olive oil is good. And balsamic vinegar rather than salt, can be added to make salad dressings. Meats are allowed but not in the evenings. No creamy sauces EVER!! Loads of water and no fruit juices, since Argentina juices are loaded with sugar in various forms. Rice is okay but 2x a week as well and never on the same day I have pastas. No carbonated drinks at night and no more than 2x a week as well. So far I have been on it for 2 days, my energy level is up, I am not lethargic and best of all, I sleep so well at night. I will keep you posted on this cleansing, weight reducing diet of mine. There is no real deprivation of any kind of food here, just management and moderation of things that if I eliminate from my food list I would crave and binge on. Not good, so it is an okay diet, for my body's need and considering my age.
Then...I would love to say nasty things about the "la vereda" that was dug up, some cable lines were run through it, cemented over and then now it is pending completion (uhuh!) on Monday, but....since it is from my ever so adorable Macri doing this, all is well and okay with me. Just do not leave that mess in there for another week, coz I would definitely send you an open letter, know what I mean, fella. Love and respect there!
Well, the weekend is here and I am excited about my diet and my walks and my work. Something good is happening for me in the future, I do not have a clue what it is but, I love being pink and happy today - so there.
See ya another day, 'kay? Take care ya all.
Ciao.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

The more you learn..the more you forget....

I like my spanish teacher very much, but this post is not about how great she is but how much I have to memorize in learning a new language.
Oh, I love the spanish classes coz it is one to one but man oh man, the things I have to memorize ...is simply - ALOT! Just when I thought I have the easy ones down, BAM!, another one comes along and I totally black out on what I had just learned..ah..two minutes ago! It is a very humbling experience, I tell you. The decision to take lessons was my own, so I do not seek out someone to blame for my hmmm...difficulties in class right now. I believe in studying effectively and not necessarily studying hard or harder. I read and do exercise for my language class everyday,a nd I sleep with the books, workbooks, my pencil, my notebook, etc.
My brain is just gawd dang lazy now adays...(or for the last 20years). I have a hard time remembering what I had for dinner last night let alone trying to remember and use in sentences the conjugated verb "decir" (to say). Irregular verbs are the pits!
I do not remembering complaining so much when I was taking English classes in grade school, well complaining would not have done me any good anyways with Sr. Maria Paz and Sr. Lydia and the ever present, chair looming at the corner for punishment was enough incentive for me to take the conjugation and tenses as they are told to me. No questions asked.
But now as I am "older" (from grade school, I mean) my brain cells take a longer route to connect and make sense of the things I am reading and comprehending (okay, TRYING to comprehend). But you know, the best part about learning a new language is the part that I get to practice my spanish 101 with the people I meet.
Argentinians (those outside of Buenos Aires) think my accent ( I can only imagine how horrendous I sound) is "raro" and one girl even said "me encanto" to my intonation. I thought that was a barrel of laughs when she said it, but I do not give a care, I love to practice and so far everyone has been kind to correct me when I use the wrong tense or gawd forbid, I use the wrong word - happens alot, jajajaja....
But learning and being able to get the courage to learn something difficult and good, very good for you, gets me enraptured with this feeling of accomplishment. It provides growth both brain and attitude. It makes me see things in perspective. As to how I will fare in class today, let us see, I did my homework, have been reading my notes from the last 5 classes, practiced reading the homework out loud and then have my pen sharpened, I am ready. Bring it on!
Tell you another day what Professora Garcia will say about my performance today.
Oh, btw, I also have to do the "verbos pronominales..better get crakin' at that. Ciao.

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Emotions...

It is raining outside. In Buenos Aires it is not uncommon to get a bad weather day now and again even after 5 days straight of "almost like spring" weather during winter time. It was bound to happen...cycle of nature, you know. You have to take the rainy days to enjoy..to fully enjoy, the sunshine filled ones.
Times have been tough between my "R" and myself lately. Adjustment is a constant changing challenge and so far, we are hanging in there. We have a long history and a very good frienship foundation to see us through these rough times. I have confidence that things will work out for the best in the end. I have believed in that since I was a little girl, I just do not know anything else different than believing that you might want to push something one way but if the peg does not fit, find another. I love with everything I have. I get hurt so deeply because of that but to love a man, there is no half-way about it. It takes the whole and everything of one to love another or you are not in love at all. I have lived my life by being true to who I envision myself to be. I do not lie or pretend when things are not in good order. I wear my heart on my sleeve and some people do not like that, but again this is ME, the REAL ME. And like it or not, this is who, what and where I want to be. Never in my life have I been willing to sacrifice the reality of my person. I will not compromise that. I will never live my life to please another person or sacrifice my life for the reassurance of another. I only get one shot at this thing called Lifetime. The plan is to live my life to the fullest of what GOD had given me, so not to waste and disappoint a gift so precious as life that was molded and formed just for me with His love, grace and forgiveness. My gratitude is manifested in making sure that I use all the talents and wisdom I have to make the most of my very short stint in life.
Sadness, anger, fear and gladness are very basic emotions. Regret, I was told is a combination of the first two. And to think that love should be the main steering force in our lives sometimes though like a thief in the night, fear takes over and eventually at the end the result, we get, regret.
I do not wish to lie in my deathbed later in life and wished that I did something differently. Regret is something that is hindsight with a big smack on the forehead. No one can foretell the future, that is true; but if you do something with pure love without stains of fear and sadness, it is as good as guaranteed that you will not regret such a decision.
We get angry and frustrated about people and things in our life we do not have any control over. I am learning that lesson every single day and it is not easy. I can only control me and my reactions, and I do not want be controlled by sadness, fear nor anger. The thought of someone holding my emotions hostage for their reassurance is a sad and tragic event in anyone's life and should never be allowed. We love because we care and we care because we love. There are moments that tough love have to exercised.
I will be alright in the long run no matter what happens with my "R" and I. I hope that being temporarily miserable is a better option than being permanently miserable without each other. Loneliness can still be there even if you are not alone. I only wish "R" happiness. His father would have wanted it that way.
I do not know how my "M" will take such a blow, but it will prove once again that people in our lives come, stay for awhile and leave. Maybe he is right. We have to wait and see.
I will try to hold on as long as I can. My love for "R" will see me through this but something will have to happen to sort this out for the best for everyone. I wish everyone luck on that.
The rain has stopped for a litte bit, it gives us respite. The sun is tryin' to peak past the gray clouds but more rain is in the forecast. Now there is lightining and thunder from a distance, it is not unusual to get a soggy day like today. It washes the dirt off the streets and the leaves look greener from here. It is not all that bad. I cannot wait for that sun shiny day again though.
Do not forget to stay warm and dry. I 'll see you another day.
I will be fine.
Ciao

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

My vote goes to...

I have voted in the glorious US ofA every single time since I became eligible to do so. I voted for city mayors, council members, replacements for ousted council members, sheriffs, City Attorney, Senators, Representatives both state and federal and on and on and on....Oh I of course voted for several presidential elections in the past, I am honored to be able to exercise such a right. I value it close to my heart. I say that if you do not take the time to vote, you then forfeit the right to complain - and boy, do I love to complain. Think of it this way...if you want to look good (and people might just complement you on your great looks) you take the time to fix yourself. You vote, when things happen that you do not like, you have the right to rag, rant and rave. Simple really. Some people say, what is one vote anyway? And these same people state, that my vote does not count - I am an American Citizen and will wear the honor and distinction proudly. I vote for whom I want and for this alienable right I have no one but me to influence whose name I write on that (okay..to chad ) ballot. Now that I have said that, I am in a quandry as to whose name to write on that ballot...Obama or McCain?
I am a confessed Democrat. I align my political affiliation with the personal principles I have. I do not have the qualities prevalent and evident in Republicans. That does not mean I NEVER voted for a Republican - because I have. Local elections are not divided by party line but one tend to know which party the candidates are alighed with, you know. I would like to think that the political party comes in second to being an American and I vote for the best American for the job. I will try to do that again this coming November 2008.
There are certain things that happened this year in the Democratic Party (campaign and convention) that I did not like and cared for. I am disillusioned about what this Presidential election will turn out to be. The next US President will heal the nation after the wars, pain and agony of everyone red, white and blue citizen of the US of A, especially after the 9-11. There are droves of people and family who will never heal their wounds but at least hope for a President who cares and listens to the right people will take us out of the war and strive to better the economy because by golly, I might be in Argentina and deep in the trenches but the dollar is what we live on, and lately it just has not been good. I do not want it to be the same as before (do not like lingering in the past) but at least better the present circumstances of the economy and financial world we live (or try) in.
So,there is McCain, the Republican and all that being a Republican entails and then there is Obama, the Democrat that is supposed to defeat McCain and all the Republican's Glory and Pride it represents. I do not know who will get my vote. I know 2 other people in this family that will vote for (at least I think I know) one who will vote for Obama and the other one who will vote for anyone but Obama. Where does that leave me? I have read and heard (some) of the usual spiel, rhetoric, lies, blah-blah-blah of each party, but still NOTHING for me. This election lacks the excitement that I had once felt when I voted for previous Presidential elections. The choices are so limited and neither one I really want to vote for. Do I choose the lesser evil of the two? But how do I really know? Both are putting on their best faces. Do I go for the Political Party choice? Do I just take a dart and see whose name it lands on and vote for that person? Never done this in the past, but there is always a first time, they say. There has to be a better elimination/selection process than that, but so far it is just - BLEH for me or maybe more of an MEH (shrug shoulder included) feeling. It lacks excitement adn enthusiasm on my part and the last time I felt this, the Republican won
I do not like the braggadocious character that Obama has take since Hillary C. (was my choice, to be honest) is no longer on the picture. McCain, well I do not really know what he is talking about most of the time, but I guess it is more of the same promises to all of us just to get him voted in to office and then for the next 4 more years, more of the same pain and heartache because of the state of the country and the money affairs. I used to feel all the gaga about an important event like this. Not this time.
Now, let me tell you what I am willing to do, should Obama be able to talk Hillary C. (did I tell you she was my Prez choice) and get her to agree to be his Veep, he gets my vote. Hands down, no questions asked. Done, sealed (even Kissed) and delivered.
I know he would have no time to read this blog of mine (jajajajaja) but you try to think about it and think about some more. Imagine the Democratic "POW" power of that. I am sure Hill (my own nickname for her) can be cajouled and convinced to take the post (just thinking about such a ticket sent a jolt through me). I am thinking maybe not though - I think Hill will wait until 2012 and give this Prez run another go. I like the thought THIS Clinton woman behind that desk at the Oval Office.
And if Obama doesn't get her- he doesn't get my vote. There I said it.
Well, hold on, a minute, I am not sure McCain will it be for me, but I wonder if that Nader guy is running again. I should check out his website...will advise.
Go out and VOTE, you cannot afford not to.
See you at the polls.
Another day....

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Is it okay to look?

It is very nice and sunny outside (though frisky and crisp cold air abound) for a winter's day. Mind you, it is August, not some Christmas months like November or December, in Argentina when they have winter during opposite North Hemisphere's summer. So lately, when it gets really cold inside that means I have to turn on the heater and make sure that the receptable that collects the drippings of the said AC/Heater is properly collected in a bucket outside in the balcony. Okay, sometimes I forget to check it, shoot me! But today, I didn't. I stepped outside the balcony and as the rays of the sun hits my right arm, it felt nice and warm..hmmm...so unusual to have this kind day in winter but anyhoo...I head towards the south portion of the balcony just a few steps from the access door and checked the blue bucket under the AC/heater fan unit. Bucket is all good, almost empty so I'm set. I always linger a bit and as I looked to the west of me, across the street, where some more apartment units are and I see more the same balconies facing mine. Being on the 5th floor it gives me a birds eyeview of a lot of things. I like it up here. So I was scanning the street directly below me and I saw a few people here and there that I recognize, but did not holler for it is rude to do so. I looked to my right and saw that my neighbor still has their (a couple) roller window down. And to my left, it is the same pretty much. Directly across me is a creature unknown to me (some weird/odd dude) who loves to step out into his balcony with just his drawers on - always orange in color; no shirt or anything just underwear - not sure what that is all about but I will need to post something about that should something else untoward happen when he is out there, albeit summer or winter, when this guy feels like having it all hang out there (haha) - he steps out into his balcony with his boxer (breed of his dog) and him in his orange drawers and pace back and forth. Ok, so I looked. Is it bad to look? He can do this inside his house, why does he do it outside then? So those of us who have eyes, look, no?
Now right infront of my unit across the street is a lady I know and she is very nice and very friendly, to me at least. Not sure why that is but people have told me, that she is nicer to me than to anyone they think she knows. Well, I like the canaries, she feeds and her husband is nice man, and the plants in her balcony are very homey. I like her.
Now, we get to the part where I dare ask myself, if it is okay to look and look longer than just a glance when you think the person in question wants and begs to be seen? Let me put it this way, a voyeur looks and looks to see and watch when the person they are looking at does not see them. What about if the person being watched wants to be watched and be seen, is it still ok to look then? Let me tell you about this young man (in his mid20s) who lives a building across the street but to the left off where my building is. We are on the same floor level, so that makes him at my eye level. He does not have any drapes to secure his privacy and he never draws the roller windows down. He turns the lights on at night, I see him, we all see him (from across the street). If he is an exhibitionist and I look, does that make be an audience or a voyeur? Is it really ok to look? Inquiring minds wanna know.
For a few weeks now, when the weather is nice I step into my balcony (be it daytime or nightime) to watch the hustle and bustle of the street below. I already said, I love to watch people. So that is what I do regardless or not he is out there - we will call him "Capuano" for this story sake - or not. Most of the time he is not home. Since I work from home, I have the liberty to take in a minute or two of the outside and step away from my desk. So, lately ( last 3 weeks) I have noticed that "Capuano" have been having a series of different girls stop by any day of the week. I do not see much of what happens really but I know that the one who came two Mondays ago had short hair and the one that came 2 days later had much longer hair (blonde,this time) and the one that I saw there on most Fridays is a newer one with the darker and longer hair. I do not see their faces mostly, but the one that stayed over from Sunday evening to Monday noontime, is the IT girl lately . I watch and I wonder ( best part) if these girls knowingly come (no pun intended!) without knowing who else this guy is playing "spin the bottle" with. I see him amusing these girls with animated stories ( arms moving and body swaying) and then dine them and wine them (delivery from a near by Italian restaurant) and then the listening to the music and looking at some kind of album or something schtick ..then the usual..attack the prey scenario happens, this guy is funny really. Let me stop here for a second to chuckle. OK. Now that I got that out of my system...the story goes like this.. one night (2 weeks ago) as I was watching a DVD, I noticed that the lights across the street (at his place) were still on...of course this cat goes and checks out the light...DVD still going, hey it was a 2 CD video..took me until the wee hours of the morning to finish.. but I digress...so there he was still talking to the girl mind you...I mean, kiss the girl already, I thouhgt. What the heck is he waiting for? I have loaded the second DVD and they were still in the same position sitting across each other 2 1/2 hrs ago...enough of the chi-chat already - I laugh at this guy's get-the-girl style. I mean the girls have to sometimes almost jumps on him and he is still passive as can be. I mean, I took the time to load a DVD coz no real action is happening across the street and when something is about to happen there, the girl is the one who initiates the whole thing! Funny! I mean Lothario "hello"!! Get them hands busy...but I am getting ahead (hmmm..) of myself here.
So this weekend, he had this girl there, right.. - please do not think that I sit there with a beer on one hand and a ciggy on the other waiting for the story to unfold before me. Nope - I have better methods than that. Not gonna tell you - just read on...
There they were on the white couch with their backs towards me and facing his entertainment center that is against the wall and between them I can see a coffee table and 2 sofa seats across each other perpendicular to the said white couch, so there they were still talking ( insert yawn..here) and then the girl scoots over, a tad bit closer and then she turns and her head dips and for awhile you do not see her head, where did she go... and then her head starts bobbing - I would venture a guess but let us keep this "G" rated for others. Well that was the end of it for me...good but could have been better story line really, the plot took too long to unfold... And then the guy starts sliding lower down the couch and I can hardly (huh!) see his head (another - huh!) , then as I blinked (my bad!) the lights are off and I do not see them until the following day, afternoon, looking out the balcony towards where I am.
I look. My thought is coz if they or at least he did, not want his activities to be of public consumption he would have the decency to put up some drapes or something - at least for the girl's sake. I've seen the girls, the various girls he gets to take up there in his place and what they do, nothing I am sure they run to Mama and tell her about. Just wondering if each one thinks of the others, I bet they don't, coz they do not know. But I know he knows that someone across the way knows. Not the names but the different faces, I know. Boy, do I know ever!
It does not faze the people that know "Capuano" does this, portero of his building admires him almost because guys at his age think of all the women he gets to bed as a notch on his belt, a conquest and badge of (dis) honor, macho and all that...but the girls are all doe-eyed and sweet looking (notice how I did not say innocent looking) but they all know they are just to occupy "Capuano" for the time being. A guy like him (moola galore) not good looking per ser, but not bad looking either. He can wear a suit and look good and be cool about it in jeans and shirt, nice shoes, very clean shaven, clean cut ( short hair), great pad/apartment, marvelous location for it, and he is young. But as long as he does not have drapes up, I will keep looking and sometimes I just know when to turn away. I do not feel bad for the girls really, because I am sure they know what they are doing, the thing is they do not know for sure why he is doing them! Whoa!
Looking is human nature. Look but no touching has always been a very good rule. If there is something to see, I watch but otherwise, I just turn to my DVD for better entertainment and escapism. Sometimes, real life stuff like this is plain novelty but can get old and boring fast. I think I will stick to the DVDs for now. And if I blinked I can always rewind or fast forward if I feel like it. It has been a good viewing but more of the same really. Will defintely tell "R" about it when he gets back- don't worry he knows about this guys shenanigans. We will have a very good about it.
See ya another day - I will keep my eyes open.
Ciao

Monday, August 18, 2008

Customer Service ala "Joe"

Well, the best excitement I had today came a minute ago when I had to call the United States of America (USA) to renew a service provided to me. I mean, I knew I was calling the great company that I have learned to love and like sooo much because of the fabulous customer service. They hear from me once a year when I renew the said service they excellently provide for me but I am always happy to speak with them - yup, I said speak - when they help me go through the process. I mean the information, the manner of speaking, the clarity and the all around thoroughness of it, just marvelous. Now we get to the part about "Joe"...
Joe is a technician there and this is his name, really. I called a number to the main office because somehow I am not able to connect to their site on line. I am in Argentina so nothing surprises me on this matter - no connection and all that. So, as I was saying, Joe was the one who picked up the call/service when the main switch board forwarded my call to the appropriate department.
There I was spelling out my name and more security checks and balances, and then it occured to me that a certain kind of feeling comes over you (as a customer) when you get this kind of focused customer service attention, wow, I felt so special. So, on we went and tried to figure out first why I am not able to log on into their website ( this is a technical support question) and lo and behold I was told someone is trying to get in and access my site. Imagine that!! Little old me and my "other" website being hacked. I was promised the engineers of my website provider will get to the bottom of this and use all their might to prevent any hacking of any sort. To the wanna hackers - your attempts are hilarious in a sad sort and infuriating kinda way. My website is simple site, it is business of course but nothing of important of covert information in there. I mean give me a break! There is nothing there. And I am sure some pervert is trying to get to I do not know what with it! Lay off will you!
So, Joe assured me that in a couple of days an update will be sent to me on this matter. I have correspondences and read newspapers from all over the world and maybe a "worm" aka "virus" got in there and now I have the "flu". Darn it!
I am so glad Joe helped me. He was so nice and that was technical support - not the real customer service or sales department. Imagine that, service with a smile.
I am not saying anything about service or customer service here in Buenos Aires, that would be like comparing sweet luscious and crisp red American Gala apples with oranges - not the same caliber. There! But in fairness, customer service OUTSIDE of the city of BA can give the US some competition (not stiff but competition nonetheless).
Joe, whoever you are, THANK YOU very much.
I hope whatever bug that is tryin' to worm itself into my website, you squash it like the bug that it is, and if it comes from a third world country sort of bug, take a guess where that would be? Arghhh!
But it is inevitable coz it is part of living a portion of ones life over the internet. And I am just so fortunate to have Joe standing in my corner to help me out on this one.
Thanks and thanks again. You know who you are Joe and it was nice of you to help me - with a laugh and a smile. Good customer service jsut like Joe would service...it is a very, very good thing.
You want the best service provider for a website, email me, I'll tell ya! And tell Joe, I sent you
Another day...Ciao

Saturday, August 16, 2008

You can take the...

You can take the Filipina out of the Philippines but you cannot take the Philippines out of this Filipina.
How true that is! Today I found out that though I have lived in the US for more than half my life, I still long for the Filipino food that I grew up with. I do not know what the heck they are called but I cooked that dish today ( pork, soy, garlic, oil and a tad bit of sugar, bay leaves) and I cooked rice - I mean Yummers!! The dish is sweet (uh - duh! there is sugar!!) but it was great.
I have been thinking more about the Philippines lately. My family is still there and part of my heart is still there. My father is still there and I miss him more each passing day.
Being in Argentina, makes it a tad difficult to be in so many places at one time. I have "M" in the US , my father in the Philippines and then my "R" in Argentina (though he is traveling at this time). I am trying to make it here and it can be tough at times like today. It is never simple and it is never easy when your heart is torn with the uncertainty and it being pulled in all directions.
Hmmm....I have been missing the Philippines lately that cooking has been a good source of solace for me. I have the aroma envelope me and I feel being at home again...as a little girl, feeling so secure and life is not as complicated as it is today. I miss those days. The innocence of it all.
I live in Buenos Aires because my "R" lives here and I am trying to get some work done here myself. It is just harder on some days, you know. Adapting to the US when I first came from the Philippines was not this hard; I had cousins with me for one, I had a job, I had a car, I spoke the language. I am a social and mobile person - well here -it can be tough. I do not know...my food smells very good as it is cooking....I wish you can smell it. My grandmother used to cook this for me when I was a little girl, she knew I liked this dish a lot and serves it with steaming hot white rice. I can close my eyes and hear the sounds at the dinner table almost, I can hear her coming to the table and dishing out the food and she always served me first. Yes, I can hear the water filling my glass and the cluttering of the utensils..I can hear a faint closing of the casserole in the kitchen and a loud sound of the chair being dragged away from the table - my brother sits to the left opposite me from the table, he always dragged the chair when pulling it away from the table...my father is home and he is headed to the kitchen to wash his hands before dinner. ....
I miss that feeling of innocence...no worries about life, no responsibilities, no pain, no heartache...I will always be there even when I am not and I will always wish I was there but they also say that "you never really come home again" and that is true, my grandma is gone, my own Yaya is gone, my mother is gone and we are all grown with families of our own - it would never be the same "home" again. I wish for purest of times. And the truth is I will never have it back....and boy am I glad I so enjoyed those times so much that I can relive it in my mind and heart just by closing my eyes...Memory lane always starts with so much fun and then reality sinks in...I mean really sticks in to you...I love it then and I love it now...I just live and live...I like to think about the past but I am definitely living for the present, for there is not telling what tomorrow brings.
And that is one thing I enjoy about life, there are no guarantees and you never know how this life story will end - I think that is the most exciting thing of all. The unknown is as positive as you can make it or as negative as you want it to be.
My "R" is busy working I know so I know that he will be with me soon and I can create new memories with him and one day, as I am old and grey, I will think of these memories we have together and not wished or regret that I never did make any with him - that would be a sad ending to my life story.
So until another day - keep busy making those sweet and loving memories for tomorrow, today.
Ciao.

What am I doing right now?

making a list of topics to post this week

Future Topic for Another Day

  • 2021 The Great Resignation
  • Grief defined
  • What makes a family?
  • Toxic work environment

Book List

VOGUE 120th special anniversary issue