Crazy Friday
Here's the short and long version.

Short version: Friday sucked...mostly.

Long version: prepare for useless rant...less you really have nothing to do. =p ...or you're just that interested.

/rant/ Well...it started out Thursday night...when I went with the company to the Lakers Playoff game. You're probably thinking..."yeah it sucked cuz the Lakers lost"...but thats not really it for me. I came to watch a good game...and that it was. Personally...usually find myself as the Anti-Laker... Philly 76ers Baby ^_^. Well...parking we hell. Parked like 3 blocks from the Staples center at $10 and had to "tip" someone from the area to watch my car...after the owner left at 8pm. No pressure he says...although I'm sure he would have been the one breaking windows if I didn't say I'd tip him on the way back. I saw the other parking lots go from $10 to $15...and up to $30 before I even got in the Staples center. Game was fun...chilled with my homie from back in the days...and just caught up. Really good game...although the Lakers lost =p

So anyways, I wake up late Friday. Not usually that big an issue...but yeah. On my way to work, I call in and let them know I'm running late. In return I found out that my most important user/Boss in the office has already called and was looking for me. (anxiety level shoots up). Lets just say that pretty much everything in the office revolves around this man...and tends to want things done yesterday...if you know what I mean. So...as I hear this...I usually drop everything to help him out. Now I'm in the car...thinking/worrying...as I race to work.

Once I get there, I find out that his Sony computer that I'm about to send out for repairs still has his financial (quicken) information on it, information that he currently needs. (Back-story...this is his 3rd Sony computer that has the same recalled power-supply problem. Yes... I have sent all three back, each time it crashed.) Hours on the phone with sony...but that was a different crazy day. Anyways, in order for me to do this, I have to take the machine apart, and jimmy it to another computer. I was able to take the necessary data off and email him (12ish). He wasn't able to check it then, but said he would later that night. Being on the safe side, i suggested I hold the computer till he can verify he got it, as it would likely take a couple days for it to get back. He said, send it out today...and hopefully someone will get to it over the weekend. (not sure if Sony works weekends...but I doubt it).

So...new stress is to make sure box and computer are packed before FedEx comes by. Stress, Stress, Stress. I finish packing it...and realize its about lunch time.

( Geez...this is gonna be long. F-this...shortened version now...if u're really that bored...then u can hit me up online...but trust me...not that interesting)

I order from Denny's. Walk down to pick it up. Come back to the office to realize they gave me wrong order. Going down elevator, hit every floor...cuz i realized I left the incorrect order at the office. Went back to pick it up. Walked back to exchange, realized I left my wallet at the office. Fortunately, they just gave me my order...and didn't charge me. Ate lunch (3ish).

After a tiring/frazzled day, I went to my car, dropped off my office keys and picked up my bowling shoes. We had an company Bowling event that nite, and I was hitching a ride with my coworker. Started to walk to his place, when I get a call from my Boss saying he didn't get the quicken files he needed off the sony computer. Then i realized that I was already a good 10 minute walk from the office...and arrrrr. Yeah...that feeling.

My coworker changes for the evenings event...we drive back to the office, almost try to get into the office without my keys (fortunately my coworker had his), and I send the file. Man...whatta day. But it doesn't end there.

We attend the Bowling event at Universal Citywalk. Cool place...and mostly just hanging out. Got to sport my Simpson's Bowling shirt courtesy of my bro and sis. ^_-. My one office mate was over an hour late...but I'm glad she finally made it. Overall, that was a good time. Got top score (165), but then again...no one else in my company really bowls. Next stop was to hang with my friends at a club in Pasadena.

Yes...i keep a busy schedule. =)

So my friend and i arrive at the club, to meet up with the other 23 people in our group that have already been there. It was "okay". A click2asia event branded as professional singles event to meet other professional singles. Really not a lot going on there. What killed it that nite was when this one girl from my fraternity that I knew from Riverside, comes up and says hi. Then proceeds to talk about how she was drunk and wondered why I haven't called/talked to her in so long. Then she wants to dance. Honestly...i know this girl wants me...but I don't share the same feelings. She goes back with her group...and I danced with her a bit later on during the nite...but nothing much. So yeah...nothing of interest at the club...or anyone that I really wanted to talk to. Kinda wack honestly..but yeah.

oh yeah...the punch to the stomach.

Well…towards the end of the night, the same girl comes up again...bugging me.

PunchyGirl -"you haven't talked to me in soo long. I don't even have your email or cell phone number anymore"
Ray - "oh...thats ok...i don't have yours anymore either"

And there you have it. Right after that I got a punch to the stomach. Not too bad. I didn't reel in pain in the middle of the club or anything...hahaha...well...that would have sucked. I'd blame it on the alcohol...or unrequited interest...either way...it was just the topper for the day of hell./end rant/

Update: Boss gives me the free sony clie...for all my efforts with his computers.


Currently Listening to: Lifestyles of the Rich and the Famous - Good Charlotte
Mood: cheerful.

I've come to a compromise. Rather than starting another blog for the day-2-day stuff, I'll just post those in BLUE...while the "deeper" thoughts running through my head...will remain posted in black.

So I'm sitting here...at my old elementary school...working on their network...just thinking of things...and finding the time to blog.

Ok...installing Win 98...so yeah...sitting doing nothing. =P

Was an ok weekend, think I'll have to talk about it later, since i want to get out of here. Crazy day Friday...everything that could go wrong..pretty much did. Ended up with a girl punching me in the stomach...if that gives you any idea. wasn't my fault...really =p

Oh yeah!
Ok..I was thinking of caving in and getting a Xanga as well...since these posts have become more melodramatic than trival...and wanted something to just shoot the shit. You know? well..I don't think I'll do that...hardly post to this one in the first place. Its ok. Playing with learning HTML again and will just set up a seperate section for the thoughful stuff.


One thing I am happy about though is the Return of REBLOGGER. Yes..my first comment system has returned..and now I can hear your input. (well..sorta hear ^_- ) Also thought about the chatterbox...but I'll have to see if that fits in with the redesign.


Fun Times...Fun Times...More to come later.

Changing Times...Life and APO and me

Started going through my closets today. Organizing what I want to keep and getting rid of the stuff I don't. I found out I have enough t-shirts to last me 3 months, if I changed everyday and didn't wash. Oh man...too much. And all blue, black or white. So yeah...going with this new outlook on life and just living. Cleaning up and cleaning out.

Was in pain most of last week. Remember boys and girls...always stretch before you work out. OUCH!

Saturday ended my term as Section Chair for Alpha Phi Omega. Seemed a bit anti-climatic. I had a great time in San Luis Obispo, learning how to rope an active and even line dancing (ok..sorta learned that one). There were a lot of people there...and from what I hear...my goal of having more and more interchapter stuff is coming together. I was pretty happy about that. I'm also glad that Jack was elected as the next chair. (SUCKER..if you only knew what you were getting into...HAHHAHAHAHAH)...just kidding lil bitch. He's a great guy...and I know he'll get the job done. Many a times he kept even me in check. Just gotta work on a couple things...but you always come thru. =) Best thing...HAHA…now everyone will have to learn how to spell your last name (tulatammagul ...tut tut a magg a gol…or something ^_^) I still remember when I first met him...such a dork...


guess somethings don't change =p

Hahaha...man...that actually feels good. hahah...just kidding Jack. He knows it...and I bet he'll try to call me out on his Xanga. (ps...change your song...getting annoying). But thatz been our relationship...clowning on each other…but when it comes down to it...I can count on him...and he knows I'll be there for him as well. But hey...this blog isn't about Jack...so...back to me. =)

So again...anti-climatic. I had to think about it a while...why have I been in APO so long? I've seen a lot of things...drama...fights...power struggles...friends coming...friends leaving...bitter memories...and sweet ones. I've logged God knows how many miles on my car...driving to San Francisco, Davis, Sacramento, UCLA, UCI, UC Riverside, USC, San Luis Obispo, San Diego, Arizona. Countless Sectional Conferences (Sec 1,2, 4), Regional Conventions (Oakland, San Diego), National Conventions (Arizona, Philly, New Orleans). Met countless brothers in all these chapters. I was there when UCLA and UCI rechartered. I was there when UCR "buried" their Time capsule. Pledge pinnings, Active installs, end of the year banquets. A family line that encompasses multiple schools and pages. Who knows how many APO sweatshirts I've purchased? A bag full of APO t-shirts sit in my room...a ucr pledge class t-shirt all thru Pi class (except for Omicron...no one saved one for me...and hasn't since).

Most of you are probably looking at this and saying...OMG...this guy has no life. All this for some Frat. Well...honestly...thatz pretty much been it. But there is something you have to understand. I'm in APO...because APO is me. The principles, the ideals... Leadership, Friendship, and Service. They are all things that I truly believe in. This organization has given me the opportunity to be me.

Service-Ever since I was young, my family instilled in me the "duty" of service to others. Mainly due to Asian upbringing, it was customary to make sure that you respected your elders, and do what you can for them. In school, I was a member of a Catholic youth group and we did many things along those lines to help the community. It didn't matter how I did it, but there was always a sense of giving back...for all the benefits I have received. APO was just a tool to do that.

Leadership-In this organization, I've seen many leaders come up through the ranks. Given the opportunity, many people can achieve anything...and I've seen it done...and itz amazing. I remember the quietest person in one of UCR's pledge classes become one of the most vocal actives in the chapter. I've seen people organize fundraisers that have raised $1,000+ to charitable groups. I've seen a group of actives give their time and energy to a Senior Citizens home and help them remember what life really was like.( I still remember Ruth from the senior home bringing me to her room to show me the pictures of her kids...the ones that hadn't visited her in over a year). Lots of leaders...just looking for opportunities.

Friendship-Probably the one thing that keeps me here the most..and its not just specific friendships...but all the ones I gain as I continue to be active. Fortunately, I still am able to call and talk with some of my friends that I met when I first started. I was walking across the campus of CSULB on day and actually found one of my lil sibs who I hadn't talked to in over 5 years, and we were able to pick up like nothing. In high school I was more of the nerd (surprise surprise =p) and didn't really have a lot of friends. (*Friendships- thats a topic for another day). I keep up with many of my friends thru AIM, but its odd when you think that although we've been graduated from college for over 5 years, it was this one organization that brought us together. Whatever way you look at it, I'm known throughout California thanks to the pledge test and my visits. Hundreds of people have had to learn how to spell my last name...(yes..there is no "g" in warriner.) My brother and sister are/have been members and leaders in it.

wow..and I am still going.


So..again..why so anti-climatic?

I don't know...


At the final meeting, I made my speech, thanking everyone for coming...and thanks for the 3 years as Section Chair. I showed the rush video then walked into the audience and found an empty chair in the back...all by myself. No big speech. Not sure what exactly was running through my mind...and a week long of crazy travel culminating in that one moment...and in that moment...i felt...hollow. empty. (hence the anti-climatic).


I didn't understand why...and still really don't. It did get better later, when Jack presented me with the Section 1 Distinguished Service Key, the highest honor given in the Section. I don't do this stuff for recognition, but it is nice to be honored. It was nice walking back down, seeing everyone stand up...and given a chance to say something again...to try to say thanks. I started rambling something that I had thought of once...how everyone seeks immortality...thru their children...and how I had achieved it through all of them...by them being my family. (I can see you tearing now =p). Not sure exactly how it came out…but now wondering if it made me seem arrogant. ( I told Kevin Simpson later that all the immortality talk, I may start walking on water. Honestly I did…there were a couple of rain puddles that I swiftly glided thru ^_^ ). I'd have to say my best moment for the day was when my sister came over and hugged me. Samantha has come to mean a lot to me and I am so thankful for her. She is my best friend. (*Another post, for another day).

In all my years with APO, I'd have to say my most memorable moments have been with UC Irvine, Rho Rho. I still remember the first days when I saw this group of people come together huddled on the floor of an apartment. Meeting Clint, the first person I met from the group, who continues to be there for me and invite me out to Basketball games. The cherry tying contest we had at Islands during our first socials.(sorry everyone, still can't do it...need some practice. Anyone? =p ) Kelly knocking out 8 or so in a minute. Practicing for UCR Lip Sync the first time, the stresses of leadership and organizing people, planning for sectionals, PGCPPC, doing the bylaws, etc. The joys...the tears...working...and finally getting it done.


I still remember the Banquet, probably one of the most emotional moments for me. Of all the people they could have asked, they asked me to do the keynote address. I'm usually quite composed...and would have thought out my speech a couple times before I would actually start. Oddly...I found myself overcome with emotion...so much I had to call my sister outside...so I could let it go. (yes...tears). I wasn’t sad...but I couldn't explain it. I wrote once before it was like a parent and child relationship...and they are just growing up. Not away...but just growing up. I guess the reason why I bring it up is cuz I know someone at that chapter knows me better than most.( I suspect who it is...but yeah). The reason why I say that is my most prized possession is not the Chapter DSK they awarded me, but the foam cut out of a key and the "one to grow on" chart that they gave me. On the chart, they marked all the milestones that we had all accomplished and wrote words of gratitude on it.

That is what touches me. Not awards or titles. I honestly could care less about all that stuff. Its seeing how people change...and hopefully for the better. My "awards" have been throughout my term...seeing events like that, watching people grow...and seeing what effect I may have on them...and the potential they have to achieve. Hearing Jack at CPW in SJ say that I was his role model.*tear. You (Jack) may not have thought much of it then...but thatz what moves me. People going out of their way for me, a hand quilted/decorated pillow means more to me than any expensive present. Its never been about money...much more on time and thought.


But yeah...thatz me.

I close with a couple lines from Lord Alfred Tennyson...again on the immortality thing...and moving on to new challenges.
I am a part of all that I have met;

Yet all experience is an arch wherethrough
Gleams that untravelled world, whose margin fades


Come, my friends,
'Tis not too late to seek a newer world.


Though much is taken, much abides; and though
We are not now that strength which in old days
Moved earth and heaven; that which we are, we are;
One equal temper of heroic hearts,
Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will
To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.
- Ulysses

Time for Myself

As I check the span of time it takes me to post to this blog, I realize more and more, that this really isn't a diary for me. Itz more of a presentation...of what I happen to feel and what I want to share. I knew I could never keep up a diary, cuz I'd feel guilty about all the days I would miss, and give up the whole idea. This journal, on the other hand, at least helps me gage what I've been doing, where I've been, what I don't want to have to repeat again and again to all my friends, but otherwise...a way to measure how much I've changed..(or maybe not changed).

Well...things have changed. I got tired. Tired of sitting around...wondering...waiting. Tired of whining ...about when will love happen...when will she appear. blah blah blah Tired...tired...tired....tired of apathy. So i decided...its time for a change.

First thing I had to do..was say ..FUCK IT. (oh...geez...he just cussed on his blog...so...unlike ray). Well...yeah...FUCK IT. If you want something to change...then you have to be willing to change...and be different from it.

I renewed my gym membership...and this time I'm actually using it. =p
I love the fact I can shoot hoops at 11pm at night. Last night it was a good 2 hours running, lifting, and finally laps in the pool. Soreness aside...but thatz all part of the plan.

The nice thing was...I had my phone with me...but didn't feel like answering. Normally, i jump every time my phone rings...but at that time...nope. It can wait. This is my time. All "emergencies"...well...they were your own. My biggest discovery of the evening was a treadmill that actually had fans on it. hella cool. (yeah...hella).

So I'm being selfish...and you know what, I think itz about time. Don't get me wrong...I do what I can to help people (hence the service fraternity...and other extra curricular activities)..but really... sometimes I just want to do my own thing...and sometimes that could actually be choosing to do NOTHING.

Time to live...and live it up. It only happens once...so experience it with all you can. Things are going great...I just need to take the time to enjoy them.


-Excelsior-

Go, go, go, go
Go, go, go shawty
It's your birthday
We gon' party like it's yo birthday
We gon' sip Bacardi like it's your birthday
And you know we don't give a fuck
It's not your birthday!
-50 Cent


Well...guess you can say its my birthday. I tend to go through these every firsts...first of the year...first of the month...but this time I'm really changing things (re-evaluations - not birthdays). I looked at myself and decided to make some changes. Still paying for a gym, decided to get back into it. Not that I was ever really into it before, but at least now one of my friends is gonna be around to spot me and keep me motivated. Cleaning out my closet...getting rid of stuff left behind…changing wardrobes...adding some color. Smarter money investments, keeping track of everything…and even went to an orthodontist for an evaluation (quite and experience). I guess one of the biggest changes is being less inhibited. Starting to say what I feel, and in some cases…just saying something. Being more proactive...getting out there and just doing things.

On the horizon...everything at work, APO, and Anime Expo is looking good. Work wise...things have settled down. Still busy with projects, but everything is manageable. On my final weeks as Section Chair for APO, oddly enough...feels like a retirement. I know I'll still be involved, but lately looking to just take more time for myself, and not worry as much. For Anime Expo, getting real excited about that. Our Kamp is HUGE and right next to the pool. I'm in pretty good with the Senior Staff there...which could play well for me in the future...as they are planning and Anime Expo in Tokyo. If selected, I could get an all expense paid trip there to help set up and supervise the event. Closing out my old credit card and bank account soon...redeeming my Bonus dollars for my Wireless G router...things are looking good (sorry...techie...had to add that in.)