Weekend in SF (May 29- Jun 1)

The last weekend of May, a group of friends and I went on a trip to SF, primarily for my friend Bryan’s wedding. I’d have to say it was one of the best weekends I’ve had in quite a long time.
It started out with the group leaving Long Beach Airport. The five of us, Mark, Traci, Jojo, Dao and I decided to take Jet Blue airlines since Jojo wanted to have direct TV. Wasn’t really worth it for the 50 min ride..but still made things interesting. From the get go…we were having a blast. I don’t know..just really didn’t feel like caring about anything. I wasn’t “planning” anything in particular..and was just looking to enjoy the weekend. It started out with Jojo and I hitting each other on the shoulder from across the aisle of the plane. Childish..yes..but still fun. For some reason…I just have a lot of fun when Jojo is around. I got some pretty good punches in…and of course Jojo just smiled..and took it like a lil girl.
We landed in Oakland and picked up the rental car. Tried to spit some Tagalog to the attendant, as she was gonna hook us up with an SUV..but no go. Jumped in the car and off we when to the hotel. (Theme playing – Back to the Hotel – N2Deep). This was only the first day…and people were already looking to crash…but I wasn’t having it. SO of course I call up all my norcal people…and thankfully they were happy to come out and host for us.
We started out by heading to the city, to do some site seeing. There we met up with Christina. After walking around Union for a while…we ended up at Metreon…in the arcade. Hey..it was happy hour…and we were looking to start the week right. While we were there, Biggwould and Steve Lee came by. Of course Steve gave up on Finding Nemo that nite..but I think he enjoyed my company a bit more than the fish.=). Surprisingly, we were there at the club for quite some time..and getting a light buzz. Deciding we finally needed to go…we head out to Brothers Korean B-B-Q. Really good food for a good price. Most of the time I was picking at plates and shooting Soju, till all the food disappeared. The Soju was ok…but Justin then told me about this hot waitress (helen) supposedly at the bar near by called Fizzies. So we proceeded to head to the bar...when my boy from back in the day rando hits me back and says he wants to hang. So i tell him to roll to Fizzies and we all meet up there.

DANG....I tell you...rando...it was soo good to see you again. We've had each others backs since day 1...plus he got me to love the Sixers. We met at my first sysadmin job in LA...and we knew from the get go..that we were bros for life. Course he headed up to the Bay...and I stayed here...but it was like old times kicking it again. =p

So yeah......back to the story. So we're all at bar. Guess the hot one wasn't there that nite...just my luck. The rest of my group decides they've had enough for the day...and proceed to head home....except my boy Mark B. Wow..good times..good times. Called up Vince Ronin from MZ...and it was all over.So there we were...Justin, Mark, Rando, Fred, Steve, Christina, and Vince...saying hi to Jack Daniels, Liquid Cocaine, Remy, Patron....plus a lot of pretzels. Lots of trash talking...but mostly a lot of fun. I really don't remember much from that nite...hahahha. I do remember everyone leaving..and Justin walking Mark and I like 8 Blocks..to go to the other bar...just cuz it had a later last call. Course ..all mark and I got was a purple hooter. Weak... After that..we jumped into Justins High Exhaust Exclipse...and head home. I passed out next to the aluminum cans...and Mark tried to stay awake and talk to Justin..but passed out too. HHAHAH.

End Day 1..please turn your tape to the other side...beep.

So we survived for the next day. Rando hits us up..and we were gonna kick it like before. Hawaiian Breakfast at Puenaheli. Sadly though..that shop has been long since closed. Another restaurant took its place...hawaiian as well..but just not the same. So again...we start the party again. Pretty much took up the whole restaurant. Wasn't too hard since there was no one else there. The original 5, Rando, Christina, Steve, The Ronin bros (yeah Gerald woke up), and Felix and company. It was cool..just chiln mostly. Got our grub on...and proceeded to think of what to do next. After much pondering...it was decided...Haight street.

Honestly..didn't really seem like much to me. A mix of Venice and 3rd Street promenade. We walk thru it...and decided to head home and rest...before dinner and the club that nite. We had decided on Glass Kat for the club..and ended up there for dinner as well. The club was cool...meeting up with old friends....and meeting some new ones ^_-. Best part was Jojo getting molested by a couple of club go-ers =p. He says now he understands what ass is. We ended the nite with some Filipino food at the all nite casino. Dang..only filipinos..hahah.

Day 3...the reason why we came up. Today was Bryan's wedding. We decided to go tp Fisherman's Wharf and get some clam chowder bowls. While we're there we check out the local stores and old carnival area. Mark gets some snap caps and all hell breaks loose. Its funny to see how much enjoyment u can get from the lil things. The best part was when Traci was carrying two on her back...without her knowledge...and accidentally drops it in the ice cream shop, scaring a bunch of people in there. They turned around to blame Mark, but he was soo far away. Oh man..my side hurt it was too funny. After that...we head home and get ready for the wedding.

The ceremony was nice...held outdoors so it got kinda hot. I can honestly say I have never seen a more beautiful and happier couple. It was great seeing a bunch of my old friends again from college. My old roommates Jeff and Chad. Apo peeps Annette, Thi, Theresa, Pansy, Jenn Chan, Christine, Carey, Gideon as
well. Had a lot of fun just chilln. On of the best parts had to be "raving" with Mark on the dance floor. Honestly..just not caring about things is the best way to be. We were just jumping up and down, "battling", on the dance floor..just having fun.

Last Day...Such a fun filled weekend...we weren't exactly sure how to end it. We started by searching for breakfast..ending up at this place called the Squat and Gobble. Thankfully our hosts Justin and now Jen Lee came thru to give us ideas for our final hours in SF. Finally we decided on Japantown. We strolled thru the mall and a number of shops. Cool photo opportunities...as mark and I again battled this time with the cameras. (total 330 from all our cameras in the Ofoto album). We ended the day with Ramune drinking contest and headed back to the airport. Jumped on a plane...started socking Jojo in the arm again..and eventually made it back home safely.
Big Ups to everyone that kicked it with us that weekend. Thanks for being there...and playing host.

Still kinda busy...but had to find the time to write this.
Expect an "update" later on my recent trip to SF (so much fun)..and Traci's Bday party.
until then..u can refer to the pictures on ofoto. (click links above) =)


OK...so what was so important to write about....
well...guess its this recent friendster.com craze. I don’t usually sign up for all these internet hype stuff...but after chilln with some friends in SF...i had a reason. =p
Well...besides being a cool idea...on a really crappy server that cuts out like every 10 minutes...it got me thinking about some things.

I know a lot of people. Thatz a fact. but the question really is...do i define them as friends?

For me...there are varying levels in which I know someone. The majority of the people I know...mostly acquaintances. I don't really have very many friends. So when I started getting requests from people i knew (college, Fraternity, etc)...or people i never really hung out with...had to pause to decide. Funny...simple question you'd think..."are you friends with this guy/girl?"...but not a simple answer. On the flip side, i found a number of people that i know as acquaintances...but wondered if they ever felt I was a friend?.

Really...I'm a private guy. So after a while...the novelty of the idea started to wear off...and some fears actually came up. I never really liked mixing my circle of friends. Each one knows an aspect of me...but what would happen when those boundaries became blurred. I mean really...wouldn't it be weird...if your high school best friend...ends up dating your ex-girlfriend's roommate...that you also know thanks to friendster. If it was meant to be...i'd be happy for them...but i'd also have to say...its still kinda awkward.

The other thing I worried about were people using my name/"friendship" to fuck around with my friends. Yeah...I'd have to say I'm really protective of my friends...girls especially. I'll be the first to admit that guys are dogs... and yes... i may be friends with some of them...but it doesn't necessarily mean i approve of their actions. So...hesitation again on friendster.

In the end... I more or less approved people...just as an acknowledgement that i do know them...but i also left a stern warning on my profile (below). But yeah...if you are on friendster...go ahead and request if you want to be my friend... But if you really want to know where you stand...just send me a direct email. This is not the email I used on friendster.


In response to "About Me":

humm...shy =p... funny (least I think so)... boring (yeah...really)...streaks of spontaneity...listener...protector...friend. I don't talk about myself much...but i really don't have much to hide. I just don't express it much.

-Which brings me to my next thought...I'm not trying to be popular here...but I do have varying definitions of friends. I honestly don't have a lot of friends...but a lot of acquaintances. Friends mean a lot to me...and I pretty much do anything for them. So...getting requests from people I "know"...but hardly know...yeah...kinda a quandary. If you want to go from more than an acquaintance to a friend...thats up to you to take the initiative. I'm always willing.

--on the other hand..if you're expecting to pick up on any of my FRIENDS...cuz you say your my friend...you better not hurt any of them. (I'm very protective...especially of my friends-girls). If you hurt them...expect to get your ass kicked by ALL of my friends. For realz.

Currently Listening to: I want you - Thalia Feat Fat Joe
Mood: protective

wow..new blogger..

and ray actually busy at work..and other stuff.
Things been going well...having fun..so thats good.

much to write about..but not right now. Been crashing at 4am the past few days..so need to catch up on sleep first.

mainly wanted to post on how true this lil article was..

8 ways to turn guys on

Blogging from Texas. Yee Haw!!

Quite an interesting weekend so far...and its not even over yet.

Guess we'll start off with Friday. So I'm sitting at work, busy with different projects and stuff, when I find out that the Server in Texas has gone down. After talking with some people in Boston and realizing that I'm not doing much this weekend, i accept the suggestion to fly out to Houston and work on the server. Of course this is after my previous plans for Sat (AX BBQ and Hot Import Nights). So, I schedule a flight, leaving at 8am on Sunday and am staying at the four seasons hotel. Nice =).

I'm working on the machine right now...just had some time to type while reloading the software.

So...friday nite, my AX friends come in to UCLA to prep for the BBQ the next day. Mostly it was fun...catching up...playing Dos till 2am and drinking boba. This was after a great birthday sushi dinner courtesy of Mark. Big shouts to my lil sib Theresa in Irvine too for planning a family get together and Bday cake for me on Wed...she's soo sweet. (and yes Rachel...she does exist). Lots of fun, but got home late (again) cus I had to prep some Cds for this trip. Work...work...work.

So I wake up on Sat to see that Samantha arrived. I had just learned that she was actually coming. Didn't get to talk to her much...as she needed to leave for a party. I missed her hug...but sam...i understand.

So got ready to go to the BBQ. It was ok...not as good as the last one. Found myself playing basketball most of the time...but that was fun. Afterwards, went to Hot Import Nights. That was cool as well. Ahh..pictures with Aiko Tanaka. =)

I'll have to post more later....but leaving for SF now. See you there! =p

Man oh man...this shit is too funny. I had to walk into the server room to keep from laughing out loud at work. The Rhino and cop/pirate one are the best. HAHAH.(link c/o LYD)

Fun with Cybering

OK...I told you I wanted to see it too. Yeah...what a birthday present that would be. Lana Lane and a birthday cake.
^_^ Speaking of which...

Humm...looking for traditional japanese school uniform for Anime Expo...yet all my internet searches lead to porn. Interesting...yet not exactly what I'm looking for...(right now ^_-).
sample1
sample2
The inspiration - My Sassy Girl

Suggestions anyone? Any help would be appreciated. =)

Travel/Entertainment Plans

Just and FYI...for those interested in hanging out.

5/24 - Cerritos - AX picnic and Hot Import Nights
5/29-6/1 - SF- Bryan Han's Wedding. Staying at Hyatt Regency SFO
6/14 - Davis - Samantha's Graduation
6/21 - Santa Clara - Fanime Con
7/2-6 - Anaheim - Anime expo (AX)

Currently Listening to: California Love - 2Pac
Mood: diligent

Its been an interesting week. Got DSL at home finally. ^_^ Fairly busy at work..so thats occupied much of my time. Some sad things and some scary things this past week also...that make you take a step back and re-evaluate were we all fit in...as far as life goes. They say, it just helps you appreciate things much better. Thinking about things..wondering....

honestly...I'd just have to say fuck it (raises middle finger in the air).

OK...this post just turned.

Now don't get me wrong. I didn't know Adrian at all...but I feel his loss. I felt his loss when my sister first told me...when justin told me he was going to the memorial...and then when I read kelly's blog. Sounds like a great guy...and truly a tragic loss. He was a brother of APO...but that didn't matter...he made a difference in people's lives.

I also know all the girls that were in the car...I heard about what happened....I shudder to think what could have happened. Thankfully, although in pain, they are all still here.

But what I pose to you is this: What do you do from here? Sit around...remember who he was...ponder what he could have been. Thinking what could have happened in that car. Much of our lives are spent....thinking....not doing. Evaluating....but not taking action.

I say its time to start taking action. If you have a life...then really start LIVING it. Does your world revolve around whether or not Clark and Lana will eventually kiss on Smallville? (ok..i wanna see it...but I don't sit around waiting for it =p). Whether or not the Lakers go for 4-peat won't change the fact that you still have to finish school...or go to work the next day.

Find the things that matter to you...and do what makes you happy. The only person you have to answer to is yourself. Stop blaming other people and find solutions...instead of complaining about it.

i don't know people...no one has all the answers for life's mysteries...or even why this rant started. I think now in my more "experienced" years...I've learned more and more that "talking" about something helps...but still lacks when it is not followed by action.

All I would say is live your life...while you still have it...and make it count.

Crazy and fun weekend.


Friday - Met up with Mark, Maureen and friends at Yardhouse. Happy to learn my Sixers are advancing. =p. Headed out to a Pimps and Schoolgirls party at USC. Oh man...the memories of parties being broken up by campus police. HAHAHAHA. I think I'm gonna need to throw a theme party myself one of these days. Ended up in K-town to find something to eat. Gotta love K-town...since it never closes...and Korean girls... ^_^.

Sat - Chilled in Ventura. Watched X2, Serendipity with 3 other guys (don't ask), and 40 Days and 40 Nights. Got a lot of stuff done and just chilled with the guys. Vanilla coke it the shit yo! (damn..sound like biggwould) - (Vanilla Vodka and coke). Happy Bday Mark. Sorry for putting you on blast on Mon.

Sun - Had an anime expo (AX) meeting, that i brought a lot of issues up for discussion. Had one of the best lunches I've had in forever...playing with a Crab Claw at the Crab shack and laughing it up with my AX homies, after only 3 hours of sleep. I'll probably expand on it later...but it also included "flying" to the restroom while wearing a lobster bib as a cape. Dang..just loving life right now..and chilln.

Need to regain focus again...and actually do some work. Happy Cinco de Mayo. WOW..its may already.

Currently Listening to: The Jumpoff - Lil Kim
Mood: chiln.

wow...
thought segregation was over....


PS..
Thanks Milly for freaking me out with that link....ewwwwww
Great after having all these ghostly visions all week thanks to a stupid "The Ring" chain email. I'm not saying I believe it....but I just don't mess around with it. (PS...didn't forward the email...just started that the screen captures too long..)

Currently Listening to: I'm with you - Avril Lavigne
Mood: content

BTW...Since I listen to Shoutcast.com, the currently listening to hardly ever refers to how I'm feeling...just what I happen to be listening to at that time. Got a lil tired of the RnB link, trying the POP one now.

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.)

ok...I'm back.

I was going to wait a bit to upload the pics before I talked about my cruise, but had some time to kill so here it is.

The cruise was beautiful. The islands were gorgeous and the weather was perfect. All in all quite fun. So lets start of at the beginning.

My flight was scheduled for 8:45am, which of course means that I should be at the airport by 7am or so. I kept everything to 2 carry-ons and set everything up the night before. Of course...I end up waking up around 7:15am and find myself racing out of the house. Arrived at airport...enough time...whew...everything cool.

The ship was to disembark at 5pm. My flight arrives at 3:40pm, was told it was only a 20 minute drive to Dock so figured I would be ok. It wasn't till I read the paperwork that said I should actually be at the ship around 3pm. Oh well...I still felt I would be ok.

I landed around 3:40pm, and finally found the cab around 4pm (Delta Airlines SUCKS. Worst Airline Ever). The driver was a bit worried about getting there in time, as there was a county fair. Then we get stuck in traffic. (4:15pm). She proceeds to tell me how she has had about 5 close calls already, getting people to the ship "just in time". I let her know I didn't want to be the 6th one and just to get me there as soon as possible. I really wasn't looking forward to spending a week in Tampa, Florida cuz I missed my ship. We take a couple side streets and are on our way. As we're driving up toward the dock, she proceeds to give me one more shock, as she notices that the ship has already started sailing. (and it was...). Fortunately, it was a different cruise ship. (whew.)

Since it was the end, ran thru the line to get my boarding pass. Got thru the metal detector as they remarked that they would be removing the gangplank soon.(double whew). And finally settled into my cabin and watched as we started to move out. Fortunately, I was able to have the cabin all to myself, as they were only a handful of people enrolled in this particular cruise.

Cruises are fun…but pretty boring alone. If you're ever looking for quality time with a person, "stuck" on a cruise ship is definitely one way to score some brownie points with a loved one. Unfortunately, I didn't have anyone to bring...and not very many “potentials” on the ship where the average age was around 70. Fortunately, I met another solo passenger on the ship named Rick. He was a friend of one of the conference planners and decided to just come along and enjoy the cruise. Really great guy, he became my dinner and cruise buddy for the duration of the trip. Not too sure if he liked being called my "dad" at each of the trips on land (sorry Rick =p), but many times along the way he acted like one to me. =). - in a good sense that is, like a confidant and listener...no...he did not send me to my room when I asked for 2 desserts with ice cream on the side...which yes i did do =p. Most of my vacation was hanging out with Rick, his friend Bernie, and two guys I met from New York (Al and Matt)

I think one of the greatest things about the cruise was the unlimited food. Menus for lunch and dinner, Breakfast sent to my room...midnite buffet and an ice cream bar.....geez...I swear they would have had to roll me off the ship.

The ports of call were interesting: Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Cozumel (Mexico). Wasn't too sure what I wanted to do at each site. Relaxed and walked thru the city in Grand Cayman, took a raft down the Martha Brae in Jamaica, and visited the Mayan ruins in Cozumel. Most of the attractions of the sites were to go scuba or snorkeling, which didn't particularly interest me, as I felt there was only a limited time at each port. Each port also seemed like a watch or jewelry store, cuz thatz all they sold. Nothing really interesting to take home, although I did get some nice ESQ watches at a good price. =)

The days at sea were occupied with classes. Actually kinda glad I had them, cuz if not I'd be hella bored. Remembered the first time I went on a cruise, my brother and I would just run rampant on the boat...hanging out in the arcade and waiting for the midnite buffet. Miss those days of just hanging out with Will. Learned about programming in ASP, even thought haven't started programming in anything really. Our guest speaker Simon Phipps was a phenomenal person from SUN. Pretty cool guy that gave open commentary on technology and its applications. Nevertheless, his presence (and subsequent popularity) boded for much controversy on a Microsoft-vendor cruise (.Net Nirvana). Really interesting to meet such prominent people in the field Simon Phipps (XML, Java), Jeff Procise (ASP), Randal Schwartz (Perl), etc.

Although I was cutting it close to get the ship, I seemed to have scheduled too much time in Florida when I got back. Arrived at 9am, but my flight didn't leave till 7pm. Rather than chance it exploring Tampa Bay, decided to just stay that the airport. Started using my primitive laptop (a spiral notepad) and tried to take care of things. Saw Hulk Hogan, the Big show, Dean Malenko and a couple others from WWF/WWE. Always found the airport interesting. Guess it because I'm a people person, but I love just watching the human interactions and people coming and going at the airport. Always dynamic...always changing. So eventually it was time to leave and come back home. All and all a relaxing trip...but it was good to come back as well.

Many things to think about...but not a lot to say. Just been keeping really busy...so I guess that keeps me from lamenting..or pondering..or just thinking.

work is settling down, as I have been really busy on a project....thankfully its pretty much done! =) I may actually have time to sit and write here in a bit..but mainly wanted to post that I will be out next week.


Remember that time last year, when I told you about winning a free cruise? well...yeah...decided to take the person up on it. Didn't really care what i was "supposedly" gonna be learning..mainly interested in where I would be going. Thankfully got a better job with the ability to take some time off, that I decided to use it now. Come on? Carribean or Mexico?? Wasn't a hard decision there. Oddly enough this will probably be my first real vacation. I'll be heading solo, flying out Sat 15 morning and returning Sat 22. wow. something non-work related, non-apo related, non-family related...and just in time to avoid all the LA rains.. HAHAHAHA. Bringing along the camera for some memories. =)


PS.
Happy Birthday to Grace (2/11) and Steve (2/13). =) Sorry if I miss anyone elses. I love bdays...but can hardly remember anyone's. =p

ok..ouch.

Standing at a public terminal in San Luis Obispo I finally find the time to blog. Yes..I know..and I've heard it...its been a while..but hey..I've been busy.

lot of things going on..keeping me pretty busy. I want to expand on it...and I say I will..but we'll have to see if it really happens. So..here's a brief recap since last post. (oh god..I start writing..and this will take forever.)

Nationals

It was a blast. Honestly.I was really hesitiant about going. Feeling a bit of the APO burn out (wow..can you believe I said that...Mr. APO himself burning out..then again..I'm up here in SLO for a APO pinning..but I digress). So..feeling the burn..and not really wanting to go. So I guess..when you aren't expecting anything..you just enjoy what you get (* a RAYism). New philosophy in life...I'll probably make a bunch of those in the future. I arrived in New Orleans after a long plane ride with Jack. Now Jack's a good guy and all...but I really think he just likes to hear himself talk (haha..take that one lil bitch). Again..I digress...so I mostly slept on the way there. When I arrived..caught up with Robert from Irvine and the touring of Bourbon street began. Pretty crazy. Imagined hordes of people lining the street with boobs and beads all over the place. I arrived on a Thursday..and not Marti Gras..so it was fairly tame. Got introduced to the "Hand Grenade"-drink, so that made it a lot better.
Thanks to Anna for getting me and Sec 1 and 2 a room..plus getting Jack a ticket to Nationals...I really appreciate all you've done for me. So..an enjoyable first day.

Most of the fun started when the San Diego chapter decided to show up the next day (Steve, Helen, Czrena, and Annie). Spent most of my time chilling with them, which was a lot of fun. Crashing workshops, touring the city, or attending the legislation, they kept everything interesting. (Room 2412 Rocks!) Really reminded me of my former UCR day when i felt the members really cared about what happens in the fraternity, as opposed to the sense of apathy I see now. Got to see a bunch of other people I had met thru APO functions and events...and overall had a really good time. (much of this is documented in Steve Lee's blog about nationals.) Met some people from the APO-PHIL delegation and developed stronger ties with them. Missing the whole cultural kinship lately. Nice to talk tagalog to someone again.Actually meeting up with a APO-PHIl brod while up here in SLO. Thinking of going back to the PI sometime soon

Region Xtreme Games in San Diego

Soo much fun packed into one weekend. Congratulations to UCSD for pulling off a region wide event and being successful at it. Everything was well organized and came off very well. I have been really proud of how the San Diego chapter runs everything. I wish the other chapters were that efficient and spirited =/. Our Green team was composed of some really great people (Lewis-captain, Steve, Fiona, Christina, Monika, Ron, Kevin-regionXdirector, and myself..sorry if i missed anyone)..and we all had a lot of fun. Lead all day Sat..somehow lost it on Sun..but fun none the less.Got to see Grace again since the last time I picked her up from the airport. Crazy flippn thru her pictures of europe. Definately need to go there someday. I also was able to see Christina, Richard, Lewis, Fiona and all the other Tau class pledges cross on Sun. Such a great chapter and great bunch of people.

(god..been here over an hour typing. Hands cramping and feet hurting..but must go on...)

VCD making and Ski Trip

Starting the new year I found myself hanging around a lot with my anime friends from Ventura. Cool bunch of guys, I decided to see what I could do to help them out with our annual VCD of the previous convention. they are teaching me a lot about Adobe Premiere..but overall just hanging out with them has been a blast. Together we went to Big Bear for a Ski trip. Decided to try Snowboarding (then again..havent been to the snow since I was like 13.). Soo much fun...I enjoyed myself a lot. Still feeling a bit of pain right now, but I think it was due to the Jackass stunts I was doing the night before we went boarding (Yeah..sledding next to the house..past a tree ..usually...and into the back of another house...ouch)..and it was all on tape. Couldn't get the idea at first..struggling on the bunny slopes.. Took a ride down the Miracle mile..and started praying for it to end at times...but at the end of the night...I went back to carving the slopes (bunny again)...with no problems. Definately want to go back again.=)

Well..I think that is enough for now...(that is if ur still reading this...)..
Gonna go back to chilln on campus...or at least sitting somewhere

I'm off to New Orleans till the 31st.

/insert Internet withdrawals here/

Happy Holidays

This weekend was spent getting all the Christmas shopping done. Surprisingly got without much trouble.
Wrapping up stuff at work, before Xmas, since I'll be gone till New Years after that.
Getting somewhat ready for National Convention. Trying not to expect much and hopefully enjoy myself.
For all the techies...a lil christmas humor.

Got some really thought provoking posts...just gonna formulate it first.
After Xmas I'll likely be offline till 2003....
new year..we'll see what happens.

On heavy rotation at work: www.shoutcast.com/
http://www.shoutcast.com/directory/index.phtml?sgenre=RnB
[Hip Hop Rap RnB Urban] CLUSTER Radiostorm.com: HIP-HOP R&B


Samantha Mumba - "I'm Right Here"


Really..if only it were that easy. My arm would hurt from holding it soo long. =p

PS..sorry for the lyric writer's poor grammer.

Wow...
its been like forever...ok...really a month..
Been wanting to blog about stuff…but not really feeling up to it.

Suffice it to say that yes, I am still alive. =)
So..here's the surface stuff:(mostly)

Work: Been really busy lately, but still loving work. Just came back from company holiday party and had a good time hanging out with my coworkers. My projects are wrapping up, and I'm finding time to clean my cubicle and think about other projects. Of course making time talking to people via AIM . (Still need to put a comment system up...but I guess now you can talk to me about my posts. That is as long as they are conversations...not "Hi I'm susy…check out my webcam) Note to self: Work on redesign. HAHAH...god…when will stop saying that.

APO: Feeling the burn-out of APO. I don't think I can ever be completely burnt out from APO, namely cuz of all the people I meet. I do get tired of the paperwork aspect of it especially with Nationals coming up. Not even really feeling up to it, being that my bro or sis won't be there...and some of the other people i know from APO (cheesy, biggwould, grace)...but I got a ticket and a room (thanks anna)..so I will be there making the best of it.

AX: Hanging out quite a bit with my AX friends. Fortunately since I've started working in Westwood, they seem to come out more often to hang out. I do feel bad that I don't go out to Ventura/Oxnard area, but definitely making plans to do that more soon. With the AX crew, our events can range from Movies, BBQs, Computer show, or bowling and pho. I like the change and keeps things interesting.

Family: Well happy that Samantha is coming home today. Cube is still ruling the house as he seems to be the one in it most of the time. Feeling a bit detached to the extended and nuclear family. Everyone doing something or leaving to go somewhere. Doesn't really feel like anyone is living at the house...just taking a temporary stop over. Feeling especially detached from my extended family. Aunts having surgery, nephews in the hospital, birthdays passing...never really keep track of it all or paid attention to it all. Kinda sad especially in this holiday season and still not feeling any urge to do something about it.

Ironic thing - My mom made me say the dedication at Thanksgiving dinner. I said in the dedication, as I'm looking at my feuding aunts, my single parent aunt, my former neighbor counting his days of cancer and his ailing wife, my parents, and my cousins..and said...thanks for everything we have...but most importantly for family and being there for each other. I just wonder if they were really listening? oh..why is this odd? well..my mom is a die hard catholic...church any chance she can. Yet of all the people she asks to say the prayer...she chooses me...the son who doesn't go to church anymore and feels detached from the rest of the family. ironic. At least I think so.

Holiday Season: Guess it hasn't really affected me. I'm not feeling all warm and fuzzy or anything really. Become so jaded I guess. Work passes the time well....then I sleep. Actually started working out a couple weeks ago. Ok..."started" I said ^_^. I'll get back into it. Funny thing...reason why I got back into it. I'm about to cancel this one credit card, so I actually had to get into the 24 hour fitness to change it to the new card. Been paying forever for membership (it was a good deal...less than $30 for all 24 hour fitness...even sport type), but never really going. SO I WILL BE BACK...since my friend is changing in Feb and I'll have a work out partner.
Need to start shopping for Xmas...but not knowing who/what to by. Not sure myself what I would want. Got to the point where if I wanted it..I would have bought it already. Course..there are the things that money can't buy...

So of course...Relationships: Well boys and girls…thats will have to wait till another day. Not exactly surface stuff…but we may get to it. Or maybe not.

Notes:
BiggWould to SoCal = Count down begins...women and children hide.
Gracie Back to US = Miss ya Heaps too...soon we'll both get Trolleyed.
Anna = Congrats on your engagement ^_^ I'm happy for you.
Cheesy = I'll find some time to come up and see you.
Bro = Miss ya down here...hope to see you soon.
Everyone else too...ttyl.

WOW...what a crazy week at work. Insanely busy..and whatever could go wrong..basically did.
I'd have to say though that I wouldn't exchange it for anything. I love my job...and pretty much working in westwood...so sit back and enjoy the latest chapter in this crazy ride.

Basically, I needed to restore a server on an off-site location. Problems with disks, then eventually the motherboard...everything was pretty crazy. It actually kept me here till late Wed night. So begins the ride.

Normally, Wed nights are bowling nites with my UCLA friends. Most of them were pulled away at a dinner, but my homie Bren and I were still gonna go and just chill. As I'm leaving the building, the door man hands me an envelope and says "do you want these..I can't go...or see if you can give them to someone who wants them."

So I look in the envelope..and see two tickets to the premier afterparty of Friday after Next. Ok..I know its westwood...and I'm usually not starstruck, but hey..free tickets. ^_^. So I ask Bren if he wants to go...he was down....its cool just being so spontaneous. We go into the line..and into Napa Grill, right across from work.

Man...food...free drinks.....great. I asked for a jack and coke..and I swear it was 3/4 Jack with a splash of coke. Got some mini-burgers, ribs...man..it was tight. Hella faded after that jack and coke..but kept going with these lemonades. Got to shake hands with Ice Cube, John Witherspoon, and Mekhi Phifer. Looking at this cast list...remember seeing Terry Crews, Katt Williams..and oh my goodness..K.D. Aubert.

Soo faded..but really fun. And got back to work to check on the server after that...hella funny. Anyways...things were crazy again when I got back...but I'm off to Vegas this weekend!!! Time to just chill and relax. C-Ya

Long time since posting..and it may be a bit longer depending on what happens at work this week. Actually taking a sorta vacation for myself this weekend in Vegas with some friends. If anyone is gonna be out there...let me know. It should be a lot of fun.

Well..just had to post to say big ups to ALAN on his birthday. If he still reads this..just wanted to wish you a happy 21. Sorry I missed it man..but according to justin..the I guess you had a fun time.hahaha.


biGG WouLD: you missed some funny shit

Sasami514: really...hahah..what happen

biGG WouLD: the nite ended with alan saying "iam hung like a black man"

biGG WouLD: funny shit


Thanks for everyone keeping up with me via phone or IM. Yes everyone..I'm still alive. ^_^

Random shout-posts
I do want to say whats up and shout outs to everyone that I have been hanging with. Being in norcal these past two weekends have been cool catching up with friends (cheesy, justin, milly, steve, rosina, vince, alan, and many others).

I do have to give big ups to my boy alan for getting me dinner and the lemon drops on fri..good looking out man. For real that murder/redrum burger was good.

Steve- Cool costume man. Didn't recognize you at first. But I also regret not hanging with you more. Till next time.

Justin - Glad you joined the world of text messaging. Now I can now start sending to you too. Hella fun hanging out...and can't wait till you make it down here.

Milly - One of these days...we'll just sit and about our life long questions and quests. Why are we here and what do we want to do? Until then, guess we'll have to keep meeting each other over shots of whatever happens to be in our glass, and for the moment not really care about it.

Cheesy - Sorry you couldn't sleep last night. I swear I only took the corner of the bed. ^_^

-Anyways. I think its time to sleep. Got that extra hour...guess had time to spend it writing here. Night -

Time for myself
ok...so I'm sitting here...in the glow of my sister's monitor.

Don't really know what I want to say...so just kinda working on that stream of consciousness writing.
Spent most of the day fighting a headache...probably from the vodka last night. The party was a lot of fun (Love ya sis ^_^) and it was great catching up with people. Disappointed I just lost a whole day due to it.

Anyways...actually just wanted to use this time to write. Guess I've been so caught up in things lately...that I haven't taken time for myself. Majority of my time is obviously at work...and its actually been busy lately. Got another project to work on, but I honestly wouldn't change my job for anything.

APO wise, things still busy and thats good. The first section wide event for this year - The intersectional picnic was a success. I passed the ball to Bryan, and he did well. I'll be the first to admit I was really worried to see it come thru...and based on the phone call I got at 2pm, I'm guessing he was too. But in the end, he was able to bring it all together. About 100 people in attendance...and still within budget. Big ups to Bry and Section 1 Staff for coming thru. I hear it was a lot of fun. I feel really bad that I wasn't able to go...but I know it would all work out. Still have to decide on what is coming up in Winter. Had plans for a formal, but don't know if I'll have the time to pull it off anymore. But hey...Thats leadership in being able to roll with the punches. And although cheesy put a lot of time into it...if I push it to spring I'll have grace back to help out ^_^ (miss ya girl).

Anime Expo wise, just starting to finalize some plans and do a lot of the preliminary work. Lot of the team building going on…and general hangin out. Things look really good for next year.

So whats going on with me....I don't know. Guess thats what this post is really about. Got thru all the surface stuff. Honestly just taking this time to think out loud (well..ok..on keyboard). What part of this I'll post and not post I'll decide later. I guess first thing I wonder is where is my time going. FUCK. Its already Oct 2002. I don't really remember much of this year, cuz time just seems to fly by. Been keeping really busy ...sheesh...been at the airport 2 weekends in a row...and going on 2 more. Been lagging on the whole exercise bit, and honestly feeling like I am stagnating. Most like I'm wasting time. I don't really watch TV anymore (even though its always on). My weekly viewings can be all set on 1 six hour tape. I enjoy the fact that get out more often...but again with the stagnating. I used to be a teacher...but even in that position I became routine. I think on my feet and analyze well…make things understandable...but am I myself no longer learning. This darn site...looking back…how long ago I said…"this site needs a redesign" with no changes or knowledge to do so. I guess it is I that need a change.

I want to make a list. A list for myself of things I want to accomplish. I've said it may times before…but writing it now, I'll see if I can start knocking things out. Brainstorming a couple here...lets see. Learn to cook. Read the Harry Potter series. Learn to dance (whatever…hip hop, salsa, ballroom). Learn HTML\XML (yeah...had to put something techie in here). Design my own webpage. Get my own place (the house idea is still ideal, but apt\condo is looking better). Travel (Europe, China, Japan). Guess thats a few of the things I'd add to a list. If anyone wants to join/teach/help me with something...let me know. Its always more fun in groups.

Guess I'm just looking for the simple time. To be able to stop...and just think of nothing and in that time just appreciate the things around me. The smell of flowers, the waves crashing on a beach, the simple art of writing.

My car just broke 200,000 miles.
yeah...I do enough driving.
short post to tell you I'm still alive..but just been really busy lately.
will hopefully write more later...but in the meantime...hangin out in the real world and catching up with people.
I'm happy to hear from all the people I've talked to lately...and hope to contact you others soon.
^_^

Sorry all...been busy at work surprisingly. Still chatting with peeps and seeing how things are going...but here's another quick note to see if Ray is coming to a city/town near you.

10/1 - UCLA Broomball and Ice Cream.- About to tear up the ice again ^_^
10/2 - UCLA Info Night and BOWLING
10/3 - UCI Service (and BasketBall maybe)
10/4 - UCLA Pinning and Clubbing at Monte Cristo
10/5 - Chill with the AX Crew in Ventura and BOWLING again.

Worthy of mentioning
10/19 - Section 4 Conf - SF
10/26 - NorCal with Family
11/2 - Section 1/2 Conf - AZ
11/15 - Las Vegas BABY

Humm...its 7pm…and I find myself at work. Oddly enough this is the one place I've never wanted to be...working on a weekend...but for some reason I find some solace.


Work has been really busy. Had to configure some new products, reset my data back-up procedures, cleaning out my office area... I'm still online chatting...but haven't really had time to blog about events in my life. Ha ha…funny…thats why I never was good with a journal.


Been semi-serious with the whole working out idea. Push-ups and sit-ups at home...up to 40 in the morning and night now. yeah...not a big accomplishment...happy that I'm sorta still sticking with it.


APO stuff keeping me busy too. Its RUSH everywhere...and I have been making chapter visits. Meeting a lot of cool people...and catching up with old friends. Feeling really good about my section staff. They are definitely coming up as good leaders. I get the feeling that there will be a lot of qualified candidates when I pass on the Section Chair position. The chapters are doing well...and the section reps are doing their thing. This will be a good year.


Surprisingly the other thing that has kept me really busy is Anime Expo. Recently I was given the position of Security Department Head. Now...Expo was something I did once a year to hang with some friends that met at the convention. Most of them live in Ventura/Oxnard county, which until recently had always been significantly far away. But now that I work in Westwood (plus sitting online all the time)… I have been making a lot of plans with the AX Crew. Dinner at Curry House…clubbing nights...plans for Vegas. (sidenote: Yeah...you heard...VEGAS BABY....Been a while...and actually pretty random...but anyone who reads this...I'll be in Vegas Nov 16-17 weekend.)
I had always done AX security since I was bored of just sitting at the convention. They turned out to be a great bunch of people...like another family. So now I'm seeing what I can do to keep that spirit throughout the year, before AX...which leads me to my next topic of ...


Bowling


I've developed a new passion for Bowling. You can thank Rich and Angie from UCLA for getting me into it. Starting out as a way to just chill with friends, I know find myself checking out bowling.com and reading articles on gripping the bowling ball. I just bought my shoes this weekend on an impulse buy and am already planning on hitting the lanes twice this week. (Wed with UCLA, Sat with AX Security). I found a replica Bowling shirt of the Simpson's Pin Pals and was pretty close to buying it. Its was too funny.


Anyways...I basically still a straight bowler. Wrist locked straight and down the center. Bowled with family on Sat night and saw my cousin did really well with this funky curve. So...you never know…just re-acquainting myself with the sport. Very inconsistent...but usually above 100 ( 90-160). Its all for the fun of it anyways!


So…any challengers?

Man...I'm really bummed today..and not sure why.

Thanks to Brenden for this link...Funny as hell.

Yoda's twin. The oldest women alive.

Getting your butt licked by Clifford. So wrong on many levels.
I think the Old man and the lil blond girl liked it too much.

A look into my mentality....
Here's whats in the CD CHANGER (10-Disc baby)

1. USHER - 8701 (best tracks 9-11)
2. Eminem - Marshall Mathers LP
3. Lea Salonga - Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal
4. Christina Aguilera - Christina Aguilera
5. Walk in the Park Soundtrack (only hope)
6. Jay-Z -Vol. 2 Hard Knock Life
7. Nsync - Celebrity (selfish...well...I'll admit..most of the tracks are good)
8. Boy Band Mix - Personal mix (yes christina...bsb is there too)
9. Linkin Park - Hybrid Theory (one step closer and in the end)
0. Love Jams - Personal mix

Ok..I had Sam's help on the choices..but they were all my CDs..
soo..mostly hip hop and R&B..but some out of the ordinary favorites too.
and if you're at work...listening at work at www.live365.com : R&B-2002.com channel

Dang..forever and a day since I last blogged.

So we start off.....actually busy at work now. Learning new stuff and one of my supervisors in Boston seems to have a strike against me. I didn't do anything..but thats the way I feel. Otherwise work is still great. Get to learn new stuff and work with cool people.

Been really busy with APO stuff. Helping revitalize the Long Beach chapter and hanging out with USC. Bowling with UCLA. These are the cool things about a Fraternity is hanging with so many people from different schools. Hung out with a bunch of peeps from APO-Phil.

Find myself chatting more often with peeps. Get to tell them all the stories (hence..blog starts lacking)...some I may not even repeat here. (hee hee).

OK..so about the shout out from Steve's blog....here it is....the new mentality.

I've decided to say...

SCREW relationships..and focus on my NBA Career (basketball).


Honestly..its working. We'll..doubt the sixers will be knocking on my door, but just enjoying the moment..instead of thinking of forever. Got picked up by some younger girls (sweet)...and just find it a lil bit easier to talk to people. Got my first dance at a club with someone I didn't already know. (BTW..going to a club with just guys in your group makes it really difficult..gotta bring some girls along). Otherwise trying to focus on a workout/exercise schedule and try to get some BBall in. Tired of being "afraid" of girls. If they don't wanna hang out..their loss....and as I told steve...

BeefcakeGT: just go with the flow, don't overthink things...
and just see what happens


raywarriner: yeah..if you don't get a gf..you at least get a friend


BeefcakeGT: yeah.......................................................





So there boys and girls...is the moral of the story...







PS.steve doen't sit on the keys like that...I needed to do that to even out the names. gotta improve my HTML skills. =/

Dude...
I am soo loving this job. Here's a couple interesting and quick links for you all.

The New 2003 Honda Accord

The Secret Menu at In and Out



PS..
went to check out the 24 hour fitness in Beverly Hills yesterday. Figured it would be some world class ritzy place.
Um..no...ghetto as heck. Too many people in a crowded little room. Had to pay to park (getting used to that in LA).
They did have a Hip Hop class...so you never know...but I'm planning on checking Santa Monica later.

PPS.
Got my business cards yesterday....sooo loving this job. Just reserved for Kings Hockey and Laker tickets.. ^_^

So I'm sitting here...at work of course...eating vanilla ice cream with M&Ms for my chocolate fix. Gonna post an entry (longer one) later...but here's a quick blurb.

1. Vanilla - getting a better appreciation for it. Personally I'm a chocolate fan...almost chocolate freak, but lately Vanilla has tasted pretty good. Why you ask...well its all about Vanilla coke. I really hesitated about that one...but honestly its like drinking a ice cream float. Yumm.

2. IM from work - Gotta love it. Its been busy...sorta...but you gotta love a job where IM is part of the communication structure. Now I have a work sn with my buddy list on it...so I can keep in touch with everyone. ^_^. And I'm on like all day.

3. IM chats - Since CPW, we've had a bunch of IM chats all day long. I heard one even went till 3am. Well..its all about the interchapter love. Hopefully some of it will get people going to each other’s events.

4. AX Security - The current department manager is planning on moving up, and has asked me to become the dept head in his place. I still feel a lil out of place since most of them are like a family (out in Venture/Oxnard) and me out in LA. When the news was announced, there was no reaction. Kinda worried, but individually, people congratulated me. Personally, I just do it for fun...no titles. I just don't like hurting people's feelings.

So a couple weeks ago I went to chill with the AX crew. It was a lot of fun being able to just hang out with everyone. I guess I find my live is primarily work and APO. Anime expo provided for me another outlet to meet people and just hang out. I was hesitant about doing expo this year, only because of certain people or wondering how I would be viewed. I do my job, but I guess some people may have felt as if I was stepping on toes. Either way I was glad I did it. It was great to see old friends again and this year we kicked ass. I was "recruiting" con goers to help regulate the line, met some new people on staff, escorted a japanese singer w/ dancers, and also got a free signed CD from them. ^_^

Magic Mountain is our traditional after-con get-together. It was a lot of fun...although hella hot. Got there and just chilled thru most of the rides. You know...it was all about hanging out. I didn't even remember that there were two new rides opened that I had never been on (and didn't ride that day either). Sam was supposed to go with us, but wasn't feeling too well (see her post about the ear-ache). We rode Roaring Rapids (and this time I did get wet), Riddlers Revenge, Goliath and Colossus. I guess I have always felt like an outsider to this group. Most of them are out in the Oxnard/Ventura area, which is about a hour and a half north of cerritos. They are all from the same anime club and started working as AX security before I joined. I've been with them the past 4 years now...and things are good. Now that I'm in Westwood now...will likely be hanging out with them more.

Thought this might be interesting for all my raver and E-user friends out there. I think the best part of the article was when he states

Psychedelics are a means for adults to gain insight into themselves,
Shulgin says. "The best words I can use are research tools."
article link

Plus the fact that he tests the drugs on himself first. enjoy.

I guess it was just a matter of time before we start seeing more of this.

(Last line in an article by ZDNet regarding Network Security)

Ray Ozzie is chief executive of Groove Networks and the creator of Lotus Notes. You can also access his latest writings on his personal weblog.

Ahh…a quiet day.

Today was a good day at work. No real problems came up. Got good comments on a suggestion I made to the IT Staff...I got a lot of sleep...woke up late...and still made it on time. All in all a really good day.

So now that I have some time...(as I did all day today)...let me hit you with some highlights.

Job/Career - really nice. Type of company I can retire with. No longing for something else...(well maybe different hours).. Secure career, family like atmosphere, good company. Let me put it to you this way. When I park in the parking structure...my wheels squeak because the floor of the complex is just that clean...yeah. ^_^ I already have tickets to 2 Kings games (anyone interested in going?) and was told the company usually buys Lakers tickets for outings (hopefully they'll be playing the 76ers). Really cool group. Besides all this craziness the first week and a half...I was told that was more work than the last guy had in the past 3 years. So I'm hoping things will remain relatively calm.

APO - Came back from SRW in Kansas City. It was really cool. Got to meet a bunch of people...catch up with old friends (iowa/midwestern girls...yeah ^_^) Really good workshops...and just chillin Region X style. Hanging out with the Rabanera Bros and Anna...plus Region X staff peeps. Introduced Kansas City to the Tokyo Tea. Became the life of the party at that bar (of course this has nothing to do with the actual SRW conf...because APO is a dry fraternity). Actually got to hang out at the National Office. That was dope. So much history...in a location behind the local Discount store. (honest) I knew that the first time I stopped by (2 years ago…early plane trip before it opened)...but this was the first time I was actually able to enter. Really cool stuff.


This week will be CPW (dang...all these letters). Now I get to hang with the actives. Kickin it at UCLA. Should be a lot of fun and planning on running wild (hopefully). Cheesy, Anna will be coming down from norcal. Bunch of peeps from SF and Voltaire...New people = new opportunity...err people ^_^. Rich, Jeanne (happy now =p), Francis, Kelly, John, Anh, the Rabanera bros, and many others. I'm running a workshop...and I always make it fun. We're in charge of Sat night’s event...so we'll have to see what happens. Hope were not stuck in the dorms...but either way we're with brothers. Too bad I may be passing up a Sexy Fashion show at a club on Fri night...but we'll see what happens.=(

I’ve started people working on the APO Winter Formal Cruise. That something I have always wanted to have. Checking prices show it can be fairly pricey…but I have three very capable girls working on it (Cheesy, Grace, and Anita). More info on that to come.

Upcoming posts…Magic Mountain with AX Security.

Arrg...I had a post on Fri...but hit the wrong button. Oh well....

So...finally had time to go ahead and update this. For those that don't know...I did get the job. You are now looking at the Senior Technical Operations Support Person for the LA location of Charles River Associates. (www.crai.com). Basically I'm the computer/network guy for the office. Been a crazy first week. Lets see...started out on my day with the network connection to the Internet crashing. Nothing I could do on my part…but not the best way to start the week. Then as I tried to recover thru the week, just a series of other problems came up. The most difficult part about this is that the person I replaced is not around. Didn't get much of a training, so much of this is crash course figuring out how things are being run as well as who to call when things don't work out. Just stumbling thru things myself.

Surprisingly too, No matter when I leave the house...it seems to take at least an hour to get to work. My job hours are 10-7 so it cuts traffic a little...as well as cuts much of my social time. I guess there had to be a trade off for the better job and security.

I miss Orange County. I went to a UCI meeting...and could immediately feel better once I hit that portion of the 5 freeway. A lot more relaxed...i don't know. I just hope that this company eventually moves into OC.

Cube is doing a lot better...mainly thanks to his physical therapist (my sister samantha). She's keeping him under strict guard…but now has him stumbling on all four paws. Not 100% yet...but a good 50-60%.

Still really busy getting used to everything...and stuff going on weekends. I'll update more as I get more time...which hopefully will be soon.
Things to talk about…SRW, CPW (this weekend), Magic Mountain.

Special Shout outs
Grace - Hey...you may not feel it...but you are definitely missed. I hope you're having fun in Europe. Enjoy ^_^..and come back soon.
Justin - Punk...ditching me and CPW...but I know it was for something better (^_^)
Cheesy - See you this weekend.
Al - Update your block Jedi Squire.
Rachel - I'll get your letter to you. Hope things go well in the PI. Check this spot for messages.
Will - Happy Bday...I called you...but figured I'd post here too.
UCLA crew - I'm back in westwood. Let me know whenever you want to hang out.
Anyone else...um...yeah...just watch the spot for more updates.
I need to put up a comment system and ability to email...but something to work on later.

OK..finally got some time to blog...actually should be sleeping right now.

Things are actually going well lately. First off, Cube is doing better. Been visiting him in Doggie Hospital. Doctors say he's doing better (supporting his weight and stuff)...but whenever I see him, he's happy...although still dragging his lower half. Gotta love the fact that his nametag says Will Bite. He's a good dog...well mostly. ^_^

In other news, Things are looking good on the job front too. I'm almost 80% sure of a new career is LA. Been interviewing with this company in Westwood. Initial phone interview was good, followed by a 2 hour interview with the Sr. technician, Principal, and Vice President of the company. This last week I've had phone interviews with the Boston IT guys (1 hour) and Human Resources (30 Min). All that is left is for my recruiter to finalize the offer. More relaxed environment than teaching (although I'll miss it) but still a family-like atmosphere in the office. I'll let you know how it goes from here...but I am excited.

Just a quick blurb...since I need to sleep soon.

I guess good news comes all at one time. I got the phone calls from the Vet this morning about Cube's test and surgery. Everything went ok. No problems. Right now he's recuperating at the vet and going thru physical therapy. (Doggy physical therapy...didn't believe it existed...but yeah.) So things are well with him, as well as the rest of the family.

I also had a phone interview with a company earlier today (july 17). The must have really liked me because they asked for an interview the next day (that would be today now…july 18..past 12am now). So I'll be heading to Westwood for an interview. Pretty prestigious company. I'll let you know how it goes. ^_^

I Guess it Pays to get a Second Opinion.

Well...things are a bit better today. I was a bit resolved and prepared myself for losing my best friend. It all seemed to be a bit too much to bear. Anyways...after talking to my sister and dad, I decided it that we should take Cube to the specialist just to get his/her opinion. So I woke my mom, sister and cousin up this morning and asked them to take Cube to the surgeon.

Well...news is good...at least right now. The doctor diagnosed that the likely cause of his pain is a pinched nerve. He also said it was a common procedure and based on his evaluation Cube would have a 65-75% chance of recovery. The only thing that hit me was the cost...no cheap by any means...gonna have to save up for a while here. When it comes down to it though...I know it will be well worth it. He's not exactly out of the clear yet...but at least my spirits are up a bit. Anyways…how can you say no to this face. (paste link in browser...geocities won't link. Sucks)
http://www.geocities.com/sasami514/pics/acubpic.jpg

Side note: On a humorous side...while I was using the restroom at the Vet...I noticed this norman rockwell-ish painting showing a little girl and a cat. The caption "pussy's picture". Coincidence...I think not. ^_^

A boy and his dog.

Warning…depressing post. I’m not even sure why I am posting this…but it seems to me things become a lot clearer once I start writing about it. This is not a “happy happy” post either, so be warned.

Here begins the story of Cube, my dog. I kinda wanted a dog as I was growing up, but was always told by my parents, “if you can’t clean your room, how can you care for a dog.” I sufficed with that reply, until one day a dog chose me.

It was the summer before my senior year in college (1996). Till that time, I was content with my one loving relationship with my girlfriend (Christine) of three years. We were visiting her cousins when I first met Cube. The two cousins had just gotten him from a friend and didn’t realize how much time it would take to care for a dog, especially since the apartment complex didn’t allow pets.

(Cube was named after the rapper ICE CUBE, their favorite artist. Since then he’s been called Cube, Cubee, Cubosity, Pubosity, Piquito Puppy, and Baby. The name and all different versions stuck, so I never really change it. )

So again, we were visiting Christine’s cousins when first met him. I was just sitting on the floor hanging out, when he jumped up into my lap. He kept jumping up trying to lick my face (soon to be know as a trademark Cube move). Eventually he wore me out and “attacked” with his affections. That was the beginning of it all.

The cousins were going to be gone one weekend, so I offered to take care of Cube. Being that I had a house, it was a lot easier to just bring him there. Soon after all my roommates fell in love with him to. Smart dog with an attitude, Cube did his own thing. Besides that he is cute as hell. He has that genetic trait of broken ear that just makes him look even more adorable. That weekend stay eventually became forever.

When I brought him home the first time, my parents simply responded with “he’ll be your responsibility.” Secretly I know he became as much a part of their life as he is mine. He is the guardian of the house, since he is home more often than any of us. While my sister was going through school, he was the caring friend always happy to see her walk in the door. He loves seeing people, although at times he could be a bit bi-polar. Usually pretty nice, but sometimes he’ll snap at people. He would jump in the car with dad to go pick up people or follow my mom around the kitchen hoping for something to drop. When he first came home, we would have him stand on his hind legs reaching for food and doing tricks. I never really taught him any tricks, but he did learn to fetch on his own. Sometimes he’d bring the ball back, sometimes he wouldn’t (as seen in the tennis balls all over the house.) And at night, he was the one who would jump on the bed, readjust the blankets, and sleep through the night.

I guess its time to come to the sad part of this story. There have been many happy times with Cube and honestly times I wish he wasn’t around. I guess its just like any relationship. (luckily you don’t have to tell a girlfriend not to pee on a computer…at least I hope you don’t) Well overactive dog has enjoyed jumping up on chairs, tables, stairs a bit too much. As of Friday he suffered his third “back sprain” that has incapacitated his hind legs. The first two times, we all got scared, but luckily medication and rest was able to rehabilitate him. This most recent time though, the medication doesn’t seem to be making a difference. I worried about it all the way down from Norcal, so I prepped myself for the worse case scenario.

And I guess its now decision time. Since the medication isn’t working the only other options right now are surgery or euthanasia. Since the damage is in the Central Nervous System, a quick decision is required. Surgery right now will give a 30% chance of recovery even after a year of physical therapy. That is of course if Cube is cooperative with the physical therapist. Euthanasia is obviously more immediate...and more heart breaking.

I see him here, sleeping peacefully in the corner of my room. He acts without a care, continuing to try to jump into people’s laps even with his bad back. Other than the fact he drags his back hind quarters, he doesn’t seem to be in any pain. This is what makes this decision even more difficult. So the question remains, what to do? I’ve been trying to talk to many people to get their opinion. Will he be happy? Am I prolonging the evitable? What will be his quality of life afterwards? How much can I honestly dedicate to him to rehabilitate?

My mind says that letting him go would be best for everyone. No one at home, including myself can dedicate the required time and attention to him, especially for rehabilitation. It would hurt a lot in the beginning, but eventually we will cope. My heart won’t let me do it. This is my best friend. The love of my life. He is a big part of my family. I look at him and don’t want to imagine life without him. I knew at some point in time this would happen…but you still don’t want to think about it. He is so much like me. Its just like killing a part of me.

I’m gonna sleep on this…but even then it won’t make it any easier. I thank everyone I talked to for your time and sympathy. I leave you all with this story to help make things easier. A Precious gift of Life and Love.

Got back from the trip to Norcal with not so good news. I'll save that bad news for a later post.

Norcal Highlights..

Well...its been a while since I've made that drive solo...and thank goodness for Sam being there...to keep me awake. Hey...it had been a long day. Arrived in Davis and passed out.

Staying at my brother and sister's house felt just like that. I try to respect their space...and just keep to myself. Woke up sometime in the afternoon...and went to the mall. Arden Fair Mall..

--tangent blog on Arden Fair Mall--
Man...I couldn't believe this mall...and maybe it was just Sac. So many girlies...but I was seriously bothered. Lil 12 year olds with enough make up and ish to look 30. Oh goodness. And there was this one girl...looked cute...thin as hell...and really I mean thin as hell. I'm serious if she fell, she could have broken something. Girls with tats all over. ewww. really bothered being there.
---end side note----

So that night made it to Christina's party in SF. The drive to SF wasn't too bad. Made it in time for dinner. Cool meeting up with norcal friends (Milly, Biggwould, Steve Lee, Lily, Anita, Denise, Minh, Tony, Alan, Denise, Rox, Anna, Kalen, Elena, and of course Christina). Special thanks to Milly and Justin for kicking with me most of the evening. Its been too long. And milly at your next party...just make sure to invite me...then I'll see if I can come up for it. ^_^

The music was cool (well...in the beginning). Felt good just to be out partying again. Some freaks on the dance floor...nice....although I stuck primarily with the APO people I knew. IT was great just seeing everyone again...and visiting norcal.

So the next day was spent primarily relaxing. Went to lunch with my sister to Ludy's, the traditional place for Ribs for the Iota Phi Close family. I remembered the first time I had been there was right after Will's activation. This whole trip has been a nice time just talking and getting to know my sister better. After that watched Zoolander...and met up with Will, Rosina, Christina, Sara for dinner. Not much to do that day...just relax. It was also that day that I learned the bad news about my dog being hurt.

I spent Sat thinking about my dog at home. Felt bad that he was hurt and I was so far away. Decided that we needed to head home that night. Spent the morning with family. Costco and Ice Cream parlor. Finally got a hold of my friend in Sunnyvale and decided to meet him at work before heading down. I've know Feras for sometime now...met him while I was working at Fry's in Anaheim. He's gone on and cleaned up his act and is now the Department Manager at the Sunnyvale location. Its been a couple years since I last saw him, but I had to do it...since he just got married. I was happy for him and just wanted to make sure I got to see him before I headed home.

When Sam and I finally got to Sunnyvale, he was busy as usual. He couldn't leave from work..so we just caught up a bit before sam and I left...with the promise that he would head down to visit soon.

So overall, it was a nice trip to Northern Cali. Realized I don't like driving over bridges. Spent a lot of time just thinking about things. Subject for a different blog. Otherwise...I think thats all for now. Time to check on Cube.

Oh man..its been so long since I posted. I just looked at this site and I still have posts from May.

Anyways... Anime Expo was really cool. Had a lot of fun hanging with the Ventura Anime Club/Crew and regulating on all the otaku fans. Overall people have been really cooperative. Trust me...lining up over 3,000 people for a limited engagement show is no easy task...so I have to give much props to my crew (SDF1 Type R) and the whole security team for their good work. Plus there were some pretty fine ladies there too.. Got an email. We'll see what happens from there.

Right now I'm taking care of things before my trip. Sucks to get back to work and remember that we recently switched text books. Material is all still the same, just have to find it somewhere. Plus this is a new week and a new class. They seem to be very good, just quiet. I do need to look for something new though because I just realized that since I have been part time, I've lost sick days and maybe benefits.

So where am I going...well...heading up to Norcal for Cheesy's Bday/Grad. I told you I'd do what I can to make it. Why does it have to be on a Thur though? Anyways...I'm gonna try to meet up with my friend Feras also. He just got married and was supposed to visit..so instead I'll head up there.

well...until next post.^_^

Humm..this space has been relatively quiet. Sorry everyone..just been busy working and stuff. Trying to figure things out. I'm actually going to Anime Expo this weekend so I'm probably going to be offline all weekend too. I will write more when i come back. But here I leave you with a few parting gifts.

Happy 4th of July
and
Ray taking Sake Bombs.

Oh Yeah!!! Celebration.


PS..Hi everyone that is gone. Still miss ya.
APO peeps..see you at CPW or maybe SRW.
Grace - Remember no European dwarf women for me. They may fit in the carry-on..but you know my taste in women. ^_^ Have fun.
Thanks to Kelly, Linda and James (and my sister)...for the movie yesterday. Mr. Deeds was cool.
Thanks to my cousin (assistant Manager) for the Sneak Peek for MIB2. It was cool.
Justin and Cheesy..I'm seeing what I can do to get up there next week. Miss ya all.
John...hope things go well with that Job opportunity.
Anyone else I missed...well...sorry..miss ya too ^_^. (really...)

Ok..I'm off.