Good Monday, everyone! I'm still here, around, trying to live and enjoy each day/the present moment simply well, with my Faith. Thank God, we're doing good. Let's bundle up and keep warm, everyone! Winter weather is still with us. Let's pray for those homeless in our midst that they find shelter and comfort. May God bless us all.
How are you all doing, btw (by the way)? Hope you're doing great, in spite of the winter weather we have. I can't complain, though. I'm glad and thankful that we have had a taste of snow last week. Overall, I believe, we received 2-3 inches of snow accumulated in our area. (I took a couple of pictures of the event for posterity's sake.) As of now, we still have white spots in our deck by our backyard, while all the roads and streets are completely cleared of snow.
What's up with me lately? Well, aside from attending Mass on Sunday/s and eating out after Mass with my wife Freny and sis-in-law Rose, I've been engrossed with praying the Holy Rosary almost everyday (to the point that I even invite FB friends to do the same, encouraging them to visit www.comepraytherosary.org), watching some videos of YouTubers (or vloggers as they're called) that I stumbled with. Likewise, I read, and at times share to Facebook friends, articles and insightful photos posted on Facebook and by Catholic bloggers that I follow on a regular basis. I prepare meals for dinner, on most weekdays. I listen to NPR (National Public Radio) almost daily, and watch TV newscast. That's basically it. As I've said over and over, I just try my best to live (and to try to enjoy) the present moment simply well, thankful for all of God's blessings to me and my family.
As a retired veteran US Navy serviceman, since 2005, I just try to take it easy each day and do what I can to be useful to others (despite my having medical/physical concerns/issues). With what I have, I try to enjoy life even if I know that it's not that easy, at times, to do, especially when you're in constant pain or managing a chronic bodily/lower back pain. The present moment is what matters most to me, as I keep on saying all the time. I'm not worried about tomorrow. And neither yesterday, especially. Why? Because I know that yesterday is gone. It's done. We can't undo what happened yesterday, can we? That's true. To me, yesterday is but a passing scene, an adventure, another day that slipped by in one's life with all its perks, problems, and unfulfilled promises. I live now. That's what matters. I have to make the most of today, this very moment. How? By living the present moment simply well, with my faith, with Him, my true friend. Vivat Jesus!
My dear folks ans friends, this is all for now. I thank you for all that you do to make our world safer and peaceful. Take care and have a nice day, everyone! As always, I pray, "May God bless us all!"-chris a. quilpa, 28January2013
Showing posts with label Random Thoughts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Random Thoughts. Show all posts
Monday, January 28, 2013
Monday, December 10, 2012
Monday Musings during (Second Week of) Advent
Good Monday, everyone! How are you guys doing today? Hope you did have a wonderful weekend. I did. Thank you, gracious God! And thank you, Jesus!
This is the second week of Advent. That means we have plenty of time to prepare ourselves for His arrival, our Brother Jesus. Welcoming Him into our hearts and homes is what we've been trying to do since we're all caught up in our day to day business of living life and making life worth-living. As a believer, He is an inspiration in my life. (He gives me hope when I'm down. He lets me see things to test my resiliency and my vulnerability. He inspires me to be good and to do good, not only for my self but also for others.)
So how do we prepare for His coming into our midst, into our life? What do we do to let Him in to our hearts and minds? Let us count the ways...Praying? Praying, praising and giving thanks to God, our Almighty Father for our wonderful life? Asking forgiveness and be sorry for what we've said and done that may have caused or inflicted pain and suffering to others? Attending and participating in church services? Confessing our sins to our pastor? Reading Bible passages and scriptures, articles and books and reflecting or meditating what we've read? Cleaning and decorating our houses? Doing household chores, i.e. cooking, doing laundry, etc.? Volunteering? Donating money, or in kind, to our favorite charitable organization? Et cetera, et cetera...
On the other hand, now, let's see what we did this weekend. Saturday, as usual, I prayed the holy rosary while still in bed. I had a cup of oatmeal with milk for breakfast. Thanks to my loving wife Freny. Then, Freny and I went to a store and bought some goodies, munchies, using her discount coupon. Back home, we had dinner. Then, I read a couple of my favorite Catholic blogs and did research and write something about Hanukkah. Then, watched some of my soaps and videos on YouTube. Thanks YouTube.
Yesterday, Rose, Freny and I attended Sunday Mass at our parish, St. Paul's. Our parochial vicar, Rev. Fr. Chris was our celebrant and homilist. BTW, while in the church awaiting for the Mass to start, Freny and I had the opportunity to meet and talk to a lovely couple Dana and Dave who has a young daughter serving as one of the altar servers. They were sitting in a pew next to us. I came to find out later that Dave isn't a Catholic, yet he's been attending Mass with his family for years? I also learned that their daughter goes to the same Catholic school where our kids went and graduated. Likewise, I learned that Dave was also retired from the US Navy, like myself. See, God works in ways that we come to meet and get to know people of faith or who share common family values, like the importance of a good education for our children. After the Mass, Freny and I thanked Dave and Dana for having met and known them. Then, outside, in front of the church building, I shook hands with our parochial vicar and said, "have a nice day, Father!" Following that, we had a little chat with our friends and fellow parishioners, the Rileys. Afterwards, the three of us went to NEX/Commissary where we had lunch at Subway and did a little shopping there. (I bought some bottles of wine at the package store, after getting gas for our mid-size car.) Then, drove back home...Rose went to her part-time job. Watched a couple of movies while Freny was preparing her stuff for school. Had dinner with that half of my foot-long Subway sandwich I had during lunch at NEX. Continued watching a movie that I started later. Then, went upstairs to bed.
This morning, I prayed my rosary along with a video on YouTube, meditating on the Joyful Mysteries. That is, while I was in the rest room, doing daily routine. You guys know what I mean. Anyway, Mother Mary, pray for us! Thank you, Lord Jesus. Thank you, good and gracious God!
Well, this is all for now. Until next time around, my dear folks and friends. Take care and have a nice day, everyone! May God bless us all always!-chris a. quilpa, 10Dec2012
This is the second week of Advent. That means we have plenty of time to prepare ourselves for His arrival, our Brother Jesus. Welcoming Him into our hearts and homes is what we've been trying to do since we're all caught up in our day to day business of living life and making life worth-living. As a believer, He is an inspiration in my life. (He gives me hope when I'm down. He lets me see things to test my resiliency and my vulnerability. He inspires me to be good and to do good, not only for my self but also for others.)
So how do we prepare for His coming into our midst, into our life? What do we do to let Him in to our hearts and minds? Let us count the ways...Praying? Praying, praising and giving thanks to God, our Almighty Father for our wonderful life? Asking forgiveness and be sorry for what we've said and done that may have caused or inflicted pain and suffering to others? Attending and participating in church services? Confessing our sins to our pastor? Reading Bible passages and scriptures, articles and books and reflecting or meditating what we've read? Cleaning and decorating our houses? Doing household chores, i.e. cooking, doing laundry, etc.? Volunteering? Donating money, or in kind, to our favorite charitable organization? Et cetera, et cetera...
On the other hand, now, let's see what we did this weekend. Saturday, as usual, I prayed the holy rosary while still in bed. I had a cup of oatmeal with milk for breakfast. Thanks to my loving wife Freny. Then, Freny and I went to a store and bought some goodies, munchies, using her discount coupon. Back home, we had dinner. Then, I read a couple of my favorite Catholic blogs and did research and write something about Hanukkah. Then, watched some of my soaps and videos on YouTube. Thanks YouTube.
Yesterday, Rose, Freny and I attended Sunday Mass at our parish, St. Paul's. Our parochial vicar, Rev. Fr. Chris was our celebrant and homilist. BTW, while in the church awaiting for the Mass to start, Freny and I had the opportunity to meet and talk to a lovely couple Dana and Dave who has a young daughter serving as one of the altar servers. They were sitting in a pew next to us. I came to find out later that Dave isn't a Catholic, yet he's been attending Mass with his family for years? I also learned that their daughter goes to the same Catholic school where our kids went and graduated. Likewise, I learned that Dave was also retired from the US Navy, like myself. See, God works in ways that we come to meet and get to know people of faith or who share common family values, like the importance of a good education for our children. After the Mass, Freny and I thanked Dave and Dana for having met and known them. Then, outside, in front of the church building, I shook hands with our parochial vicar and said, "have a nice day, Father!" Following that, we had a little chat with our friends and fellow parishioners, the Rileys. Afterwards, the three of us went to NEX/Commissary where we had lunch at Subway and did a little shopping there. (I bought some bottles of wine at the package store, after getting gas for our mid-size car.) Then, drove back home...Rose went to her part-time job. Watched a couple of movies while Freny was preparing her stuff for school. Had dinner with that half of my foot-long Subway sandwich I had during lunch at NEX. Continued watching a movie that I started later. Then, went upstairs to bed.
This morning, I prayed my rosary along with a video on YouTube, meditating on the Joyful Mysteries. That is, while I was in the rest room, doing daily routine. You guys know what I mean. Anyway, Mother Mary, pray for us! Thank you, Lord Jesus. Thank you, good and gracious God!
Well, this is all for now. Until next time around, my dear folks and friends. Take care and have a nice day, everyone! May God bless us all always!-chris a. quilpa, 10Dec2012
Friday, November 9, 2012
Out of Curiosity
Good Friday, everyone! TGFI, yehey! Thank God. We're alive and doing well! Thank you, Jesus! Aren't we all looking forward to a wonderful weekend, guys? I bet we are. Anyway, I do hope, and pray, that you're in the pink of health. I'm good, as far as I'm concerned. Thank you.
Yes, I, along with my wife Freny, already prayed the rosary this early morning. Thank you, dear and loving God. Thank you, Jesus! Mother Mary, pray for us, always!
This morning, after having breakfast in the hotel, I posted this info on my Facebook page for our FB friends that today, Friday is my "2nd day at the VAST 2012 PDI, with Freny, in [the historic(al), Colonial] Williamsburg. And, loving and enjoying it!" After two to five minutes, a couple of our friends and relatives responded immediately by liking it (the message). And I did acknowledge and thank them, too.
Now, while I'm in the lobby at Willimsburg Hotel, writing this blog post, Freny is busy attending those sessions she chose to participate. Usually, one session lasts for an hour. And that three or four sessions are held simultaneously in different rooms. For a larger audience, session is held in an auditorium or a spacious hall. especially if the key speaker/presenter is well-known educator-professor or a distinguish scientist. Observably, we see these "casually or semi-formally-dressed" participants everywhere in the hotel's first floor socializing, while sessions are going on. Others (who were booked in other hotels somewhere here in Williamsburg) have just come in to the conference/convention hotel by groups of two to four or eight, from different school systems across the Commonwealth. Almost all of them have their conference bags and tags on around their neck, signifying or indicating that they're participants to this VAST (Virginia Association of Science Teachers) 2012 PDI (Professional Development Institute). Some of them were carrying each a cup of coffee, maybe. Nope, they're not automatons. Or robots. They're engaging, doing blah, blah, blahs..(You know what I mean!) as they enter the main entrance to the hotel. Shhh...they're actively babbling. They're as loquacious and very much opinionated as I am, I think so! (Oppppsss...just kidding!)
Yeah, you tell me, we all love to talk, at times, even at the same time! OMG! No one wants to listen, people! Yeah, that's right. Each of us can't wait to say what we want to say ASAP, for Pete's sake! There are exceptions, of course. There are a few, who probably have just woke up and are not "perked up" or "caffeinated" yet! I guess. But I don't want to judge them, for I know that if you're a teacher-educator, you're always talkative. You have to be. That's one of the requirements to be a teacher---to be effectively communicative orally or verbally, most especially. Fluency in (speaking) the instructional language is a must! Especially in the field of education, I believe. That's definitely the most important requirement to be able to teach a multi-diverse population. (Flashback: When I was younger, back in the Philippines, I was bashful, shy, that is. But I overcame my shyness and developed my confidence when I was in or got into college, and into the teaching profession. Honestly, I became bubbly verbose. But, I talk with (common) sense, don't I? With interaction from people of different cultures, and constant practice, and developed speaking skills, I gained confidence and maturity. Much more so when I joined in the U.S. Navy and eventually retired. So, my point is, our speaking skills can be learned, enhanced and developed for good use in our community or structured society.But, of course, we learned that communication involves the message, the sender or messenger and the speaker or responder, the processes of listening and speaking. It also entails the non-verbal processes, i.e, a smile, a nod, a gesture, those signs and gestures learned in public speaking and debate, you know. In a competitive, free and liberated world we live in, we can't be playing silent or dumb-mute, especially here in The Land of the Free World where almost everyone loves to talk, and only some prefer to listen.(One indication is the innumerable talk shows in the TV land and countless DJs in the airwaves! OMG, it's unbelievable!) But, of course, with a few exception/s. Those who have speech defect or disability by birth, and/or due to accidents. I've encountered one or two of them while doing substitute teaching in one of the public elementary schools in a neighboring city many years ago. (At that time, I was questioning myself about the effectiveness of teaching (on my part)-learning processes in the case of this "handicapped" child, or can I say, "mentally-challenged" kid, a child of God, nevertheless? Well, at that time, it's good that the kid had an adult assistant and personal caregiver.) This is one exception to the rule, as far as speaking or language proficiency in teaching is concerned.
Well, moving on...What came to mind this morning, since I'm surrounded by science educators around the hotel? Curiosity. Yes, the word "curiosity" which is so important and very much relevant to today's event at the conference hotel we're in. Haven't I told you that curiosity has led me to other places, like Hawaii, Hongkong, Singapore, Florence, Rome, Italy, Guam, etc. Yes, curiosity has led me to where I am now.
As far I know, I've always been a curious child. Perceptive, and presumptuous, too. My curiosity has led me to places I never imagined and dreamed of. I'm sure you've heard of this cliche or quote: Curiosity kills the cat? I don't even know what that means, figuratively. But, as I continue to live and try to enjoy life, with not-so-perfect health condition, I become more curious, anxious and aware of everyone, everything around me, sideways, both ways, up above and below, here and there, everywhere...
BTW, according to Wikipedia (a very much available/accessible reference in the Internet, notwithstanding other (more reliable?) sources out there, I think and am aware), curiosity is from the Latin curiosus, "careful, diligent, curious," akin to cura, care." It is a quality related to inquisitive thinking such as exploration, investigation, and learning, evident by observation in human and many animal species. It can be an emotion of curiosity itself that "represents a thirst for knowledge, and it's a major driving force behind scientific research and other disciplines of human study."
I am as curious as anybody else in the entire universe. Don't get me wrong, my dear folks and friends. I know what you're thinking. Why didn't you become a scientist, a doctor, maybe? Well, we all have interest, passions, vocations, or calling, in life. As we continue to encounter changes and challenges, we become more curious in and about life to the point that we change (and continue to do so) and try to adapt to changes we'made. In short, our career, profession, vocation is not fixed or permanent for as long as we live. Nothing is permanent, except God, I believe. Our calling, therefore, is a product of so many considerations. In my observation, our being, mood of doing things, thinking, all of us...we're all influenced by so many factors, out of curiosity, in life. You and I can attest to this notion, I think so.
(Note: While engrossed in my blogging, I got temporarily halted or interrupted when one of our friends and Freny's former co-teachers passed by the lobby, on her way out of the hotel, and saw me. She said, "Hi." I reciprocated, saying it with a smile, "Hi, Venecia!" She mentioned she talked to my wife a while ago in one of the sessions they both were attending. "That's good," I quipped. Freny and I have been to other professional conferences/workshops before, in other cities, with Venecia and a couple of their colleagues in the Science Department in their school. She's always that easy-going lady and jolly, you know. In fact, as I remember, she's originally from D-ville where my daughter Tintin currently works.)
My dear folks and friends, I better sign off now. Inquisitive we are, I have to do a little roaming around the hotel. You'll never know what to encounter, huh. Anyway, talk or see you later, people of goodwill. Until next time around. Take care and have a wonderful weekend, everyone! As always, may God bless us all!-chris a. quilpa, 09Nov2012.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
It's Election 2012 in the USA Today!
Good Tuesday, everyone! Hope and pray that you're doing more than okay. I'm doing well, thank you.
Yesterday, I wasn't in the mood to write my blog post. The truth is, I got lazy. Well, you know, my dear folks and friends, that there are times when you feel like not doing anything at all, except to pray and to just loaf, letting the day go by, unmindful of time and what's happening around us.
So, what did I do yesterday? I did actually do something. I prayed my rosary, prepared my bills and mailed them to the nearest post office, and went to the bank to take care of some stuff, and endorsed the check my wife Freny gave me for our anniversary Saturday (which was spent out of town). Back home yesterday, I prepared/cooked something for dinner, using that vegetable ("tabungaw" in Ilokano) that Freny's FilAm friend at school gave her. With it, we have a vegetable stew(?) with sliced onion, leftover sausage and beef, with a can of salmon, and spoonfuls of olive oil and oyster sauce. With steamed rice, of course. For dessert? We have that one medium-size aluminum tray of glutinous rice cake that my sis-in-law Rose ordered from her co-worker and friend. Yummy! And, of course, I always eat after cooking. That's just me. I always savor first what I myself cooked. (By that time, Freny was on her way home from school-work.) After dinner, it was soap opera time for me, on YouTube. From the kitchen, I continued my watching videos upstairs. In our bedroom, that is, where I could just relax and rest until my eyes were heavy and tired. Thank you, God. And thank you, Jesus.
That was my Monday, yesterday, another blessed day for me..
Now, today is Tuesday, it's Election Day in the US of A. This morning, I wrote on my Facebook page, this note: "Encourages all fellow Americans, of all colors and creeds, to get out and vote today, Election 2012," after using the restroom, and praying and meditating the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our heavenly Mother and Mother of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Afterwards, I got stuck on YouTube, listening to Church songs and hymns and music of such composer-musicians/priests/theologians/monks as David Haas, Marty Haugen, (Jan) Michael Joncas, Gregory Norbet, and John Michael Talbot. (As I'm writing this blog post, I've been listening to the latter's music playlist, via YouTube. Thanks to YouTube and to the uploaders of those videos I watched and embedded in this blog post. No copyright infringement intended.)
As far as voting is concerned, I have to wait for Freny when she gets off from school-work this afternoon. We've planned to go together to cast our votes in the designated voting place, our closest is the elementary school which is just a stone's throw away from our house. BTW, our daughter Tintin has already voted last week, she said, on absentee ballot. Meanwhile, for our son Andrew, I learned last night that he's coming home, after work, this (late) afternoon from The Capital just to exercise his suffrage. I don't know if he's gonna spend the night with us. I just heard from Freny that he's going back to DC after casting his votes. What a trip, huh? Well, I understand he's focused in his work. That's good.
Just a thought, this morning: I wonder why is it that on Election Day, especially General Election such as today, there's school and work, for all employees and workers (salaried, especially). If government officials are concerned about voters turnout in the polls, why can't the powers that be declare a special holiday on Election Day to encourage more electorates' participation. My point is that, there's no reason, excuse or alibi why registered voters did not or were not able to vote. Do I make sense here? Of course, I do. If maximum participation of the population is expected, then, by all means, we should have a day off from work, I believe. Except for those states' Election Board registrars, supervisors, canvassers, employees and volunteer poll watchers, if there's any, because this is their show and they have to man polling places and count or tally votes afterwards once the polling places are closed. I understand we have this so-called freedom, whether to vote or not. But as American citizens (by birth or through naturalization, as in my case), we know that it's our duty to select or elect our leaders. We're fortunate to have this right of suffrage, and to exercise it. Not everyone, on Earth, can exercise this right because of varied reasons. There those who committed crimes and have paid their dues for what they did in states, and back to society for their integration but cannot vote. Their voting rights were not restored because of their criminal records. As for me, I personally believe that they should be given a second chance to participate in the election by casting their votes.
Well, my dear folks and friends, I have to sign off now. As an undecided voter, up to this time, I need to do a little praying by asking our loving God to help, guide and enlighten me. My faith, as I've said, comes into play as I cast my vote this afternoon. I am for Life! I hope and pray that I'd make the right decision to elect the right people to lead our country and our city, when my wife and I go to the polls this afternoon.
I know, change is inevitable in life. That's the fact of life. We have to embrace change to be able to live in a digital world. Despite all the changes and challenges we face, we have to move forward if we want to get better in life. Our country undergoes changes to meet/suit the needs of the electorates and the world, as a whole. On the other hand, we believe that nothing is permanent, on Earth, except God, our Almighty Father and Creator of Heaven and Earth.
This is all for now. Until next time around, my dear folks and friends. Thank you for your time with me. Take care and have a wonderful day, everyone! Again, to my fellow Americans, let's get out and vote today, Election 2012. Thank you. As always, May God bless us all!-chris a. quilpa, 06Nov2012
P.S./Update:
Finally, this afternoon, after forty-five minutes of waiting, in a queue of varied voters inside a school gymnasium, Freny and I did cast our vote. Our son Andrew, who drove all the way from DC, arrived home and did vote, too. Now, let's wait and see about the results. We do hope and pray that whoever wins will deliver his/their promises. Congratulations, America! Democracy is alive and well! Thank you, God. And, God bless America!-chris
Yesterday, I wasn't in the mood to write my blog post. The truth is, I got lazy. Well, you know, my dear folks and friends, that there are times when you feel like not doing anything at all, except to pray and to just loaf, letting the day go by, unmindful of time and what's happening around us.
So, what did I do yesterday? I did actually do something. I prayed my rosary, prepared my bills and mailed them to the nearest post office, and went to the bank to take care of some stuff, and endorsed the check my wife Freny gave me for our anniversary Saturday (which was spent out of town). Back home yesterday, I prepared/cooked something for dinner, using that vegetable ("tabungaw" in Ilokano) that Freny's FilAm friend at school gave her. With it, we have a vegetable stew(?) with sliced onion, leftover sausage and beef, with a can of salmon, and spoonfuls of olive oil and oyster sauce. With steamed rice, of course. For dessert? We have that one medium-size aluminum tray of glutinous rice cake that my sis-in-law Rose ordered from her co-worker and friend. Yummy! And, of course, I always eat after cooking. That's just me. I always savor first what I myself cooked. (By that time, Freny was on her way home from school-work.) After dinner, it was soap opera time for me, on YouTube. From the kitchen, I continued my watching videos upstairs. In our bedroom, that is, where I could just relax and rest until my eyes were heavy and tired. Thank you, God. And thank you, Jesus.
That was my Monday, yesterday, another blessed day for me..
Just a thought, this morning: I wonder why is it that on Election Day, especially General Election such as today, there's school and work, for all employees and workers (salaried, especially). If government officials are concerned about voters turnout in the polls, why can't the powers that be declare a special holiday on Election Day to encourage more electorates' participation. My point is that, there's no reason, excuse or alibi why registered voters did not or were not able to vote. Do I make sense here? Of course, I do. If maximum participation of the population is expected, then, by all means, we should have a day off from work, I believe. Except for those states' Election Board registrars, supervisors, canvassers, employees and volunteer poll watchers, if there's any, because this is their show and they have to man polling places and count or tally votes afterwards once the polling places are closed. I understand we have this so-called freedom, whether to vote or not. But as American citizens (by birth or through naturalization, as in my case), we know that it's our duty to select or elect our leaders. We're fortunate to have this right of suffrage, and to exercise it. Not everyone, on Earth, can exercise this right because of varied reasons. There those who committed crimes and have paid their dues for what they did in states, and back to society for their integration but cannot vote. Their voting rights were not restored because of their criminal records. As for me, I personally believe that they should be given a second chance to participate in the election by casting their votes.
Well, my dear folks and friends, I have to sign off now. As an undecided voter, up to this time, I need to do a little praying by asking our loving God to help, guide and enlighten me. My faith, as I've said, comes into play as I cast my vote this afternoon. I am for Life! I hope and pray that I'd make the right decision to elect the right people to lead our country and our city, when my wife and I go to the polls this afternoon.
I know, change is inevitable in life. That's the fact of life. We have to embrace change to be able to live in a digital world. Despite all the changes and challenges we face, we have to move forward if we want to get better in life. Our country undergoes changes to meet/suit the needs of the electorates and the world, as a whole. On the other hand, we believe that nothing is permanent, on Earth, except God, our Almighty Father and Creator of Heaven and Earth.
This is all for now. Until next time around, my dear folks and friends. Thank you for your time with me. Take care and have a wonderful day, everyone! Again, to my fellow Americans, let's get out and vote today, Election 2012. Thank you. As always, May God bless us all!-chris a. quilpa, 06Nov2012
P.S./Update:
Finally, this afternoon, after forty-five minutes of waiting, in a queue of varied voters inside a school gymnasium, Freny and I did cast our vote. Our son Andrew, who drove all the way from DC, arrived home and did vote, too. Now, let's wait and see about the results. We do hope and pray that whoever wins will deliver his/their promises. Congratulations, America! Democracy is alive and well! Thank you, God. And, God bless America!-chris
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Last Day of October 2012 Narrative
Good Wednesday, everyone! And, to those of us who observe/celebrate it, Happy Halloween! For Catholics all over the world, Happy All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day (on November 1 and 2, respectively)!
This morning, as soon I rose up from bed, the first thing I remembered was that I did write a composition about Halloween. And it appeared in our local community newspaper, Suffolk News-Herald, four years ago yesterday. I thought of sharing it with you, my dear folks and friends, so what I did I tried to locate my files about those simple and random imaginings I have had. Eureka! Yes, I found it. Thanks to God. (I do hope you guys had a chance to read it because I did share it to my Facebook friends as soon as I've finished transcribing it as one of my blog posts.)
(As I'm writing this post in our living room, while our TV set is on to news broadcast, our door bell rang. It was five minutes before 6:00 p.m. Guess who were in front of our door? Three kids in their lovely costumes! Behind them was a female adult, most likely the mother of one of the children. I gladly gave them each a Fun Size milk-chocolate candy and candy bars (M & M and Twix) which I've prepared an hour or two ago while I was preparing/cooking for our dinner. (I bought those sweet treats yesterday at Dollar Tree Market.) After giving the kids goodies, I asked the Mom if she won't mind that I take one snapshot at the costumed and made-up kids. She gave a nod and said, "I don't mind, go ahead!" Quickly I grabbed my camera and aimed at the kids who were gracious enough to pose for me. (I hope I can embed in this post later.)
Let me continue my story-telling for today...After using the restroom in our room, I time-checked. Why? I've thought of having breakfast at McDonald's. And it's already 10:50. Hurriedly, I brushed my teeth and changed my clothes. It's five minutes to eleven when I was on my way to the restaurant, driving our van and with my laptop with me. It was a minute before they changed the menu, from serving breakfast to lunch. Gladly and thankfully, I was still able to order a breakfast meal. That was my "brunch" already.
(Blogging Pause or Interruption @ 1838 (military time). The door bell rang. I opened it. Five kids in their costumes were on my front door, in unison, "trick or treat!" I just let them pick out what goodies they want from this earthen sombrero-like container. Their female adult escort from afar, our driveway, asked the kids, "what are you gonna say, kids?" They all said, "thank you!" to me. I'm so delighted to see them in their varied costumes, some spooky, others decently lovely. Then, kids came one group after another. @1845--- 2 kids; @1846---3; @1856---2 kids; @1859--- 10 children; @1903---5; @1906---4 kids; @1907---10 kids; @1911---5; @1913---one female teen; @1921---3 kids. I kept on refilling my "sombrero" container, not a basket, please. I feel good that I bought a lot of candies and goodies. Hopefully, it will be enough for the children coming for trick or treating. It's now 1933 as I continue blogging. No door bell heard yet. That's probably it for the night, with a total of 53 kids who came to my house for trick or treating. This activity ends @ 2000, per the city's regulation. I still have about 30 Fun-Size milk-chocolate candies/goodies left on my sombrero-shaped earthen bowl.)
Now to continue my narrative...While there at McDonald's I did visit Facebook and went back to my blog. From FB, I came across a shared link from one of my FB friends. I was touched by the article and the videos (courtesy of ABC News) about child abuse/molestation particularly of this so-called victim number one of the (infamous) former Penn State football coach who was finally convicted to life imprisonment (by a grand jury) for child molestation/sexual abuse, per media reports. I made a comment for my FB friend, telling her that I've read the article and watched the videos in which victim number one, Aaron Fisher, now 18 years old, was courageous to speak up, tell the truth about his case when interviewed by one of the correspondent-reporters of ABC News 20/20. I also thanked my FB friend for sharing that link to FB.
At that moment, my brain was alert, telling me to go to my blog and so I found myself writing down my thoughts via my blog. As a result, I have this post Wednesday's Thoughts (with the poem Trust No One which deals with a victim of child sexual abuse/battery/molestation and his or her conviction to fight for justice.) But, of course, I shared this post to my Facebook friends.
Having been loafing there at McDonald's for three hours plus, I finally decided to quit. I, therefore, drove back home, brought out our trash bins, the black and the blue and placed them at the designated area, by the curbside, ready for pick up tomorrow, Thursday.
Then, I prepared something for our dinner. I boiled black-eyed peas or beans with bitter mellon or "ampalaya" (from our fridge), and with sliced onion, a can of salmon, and flavored it with oyster sauce with a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. On another burner was a pan with that hot Italian sausages cooked with water until brown with fat or oil from them. And, of course, with left-over steamed rice. That's what's for dinner for us, my dear folks and friends. What have you prepared, by the way? Any simple recipe for dinner that you can share to me? Do appreciate it.
After cooking, you know what I did. Chow time, of course! Yeah, it's time for me to eat. You know me, I always like to eat just after cooking because I want to taste, first of all, what I prepared. I don't know if you agree with me when I say that home-cooked meal is better and healthier. But not all of the time, though. I know. All of us, sometimes or at some point in time, want to also eat out, to savor what this or that restaurant or eatery serves or prepares. Especially if that restaurant is well-advertised or well-known, either by word of mouth or by paid advertisement.
Well, this is all for now. Halloween is over. This is my last day of October 2012 narrative. Hope it didn't bore you to death or contribute to your ennui. Hope not. Anyway, until next time around. Thank you for your time. Take care and have a pleasant day, everyone! As always, I pray, "May God bless us all!" And, God bless our fellow men and women and their families who were hard-hit or badly or grossly affected by Hurricane Sandy. May they find comfort and joy in their recovery, with God's grace and mercy! To all victims of Hurricane Sandy, may they rest in peace. Amen. May their families find peace and comfort in their period of sorrow and grief. My personal and sincere condolence goes out to them.-chris a. quilpa, 31October2012
This morning, as soon I rose up from bed, the first thing I remembered was that I did write a composition about Halloween. And it appeared in our local community newspaper, Suffolk News-Herald, four years ago yesterday. I thought of sharing it with you, my dear folks and friends, so what I did I tried to locate my files about those simple and random imaginings I have had. Eureka! Yes, I found it. Thanks to God. (I do hope you guys had a chance to read it because I did share it to my Facebook friends as soon as I've finished transcribing it as one of my blog posts.)
(As I'm writing this post in our living room, while our TV set is on to news broadcast, our door bell rang. It was five minutes before 6:00 p.m. Guess who were in front of our door? Three kids in their lovely costumes! Behind them was a female adult, most likely the mother of one of the children. I gladly gave them each a Fun Size milk-chocolate candy and candy bars (M & M and Twix) which I've prepared an hour or two ago while I was preparing/cooking for our dinner. (I bought those sweet treats yesterday at Dollar Tree Market.) After giving the kids goodies, I asked the Mom if she won't mind that I take one snapshot at the costumed and made-up kids. She gave a nod and said, "I don't mind, go ahead!" Quickly I grabbed my camera and aimed at the kids who were gracious enough to pose for me. (I hope I can embed in this post later.)
Let me continue my story-telling for today...After using the restroom in our room, I time-checked. Why? I've thought of having breakfast at McDonald's. And it's already 10:50. Hurriedly, I brushed my teeth and changed my clothes. It's five minutes to eleven when I was on my way to the restaurant, driving our van and with my laptop with me. It was a minute before they changed the menu, from serving breakfast to lunch. Gladly and thankfully, I was still able to order a breakfast meal. That was my "brunch" already.
(Blogging Pause or Interruption @ 1838 (military time). The door bell rang. I opened it. Five kids in their costumes were on my front door, in unison, "trick or treat!" I just let them pick out what goodies they want from this earthen sombrero-like container. Their female adult escort from afar, our driveway, asked the kids, "what are you gonna say, kids?" They all said, "thank you!" to me. I'm so delighted to see them in their varied costumes, some spooky, others decently lovely. Then, kids came one group after another. @1845--- 2 kids; @1846---3; @1856---2 kids; @1859--- 10 children; @1903---5; @1906---4 kids; @1907---10 kids; @1911---5; @1913---one female teen; @1921---3 kids. I kept on refilling my "sombrero" container, not a basket, please. I feel good that I bought a lot of candies and goodies. Hopefully, it will be enough for the children coming for trick or treating. It's now 1933 as I continue blogging. No door bell heard yet. That's probably it for the night, with a total of 53 kids who came to my house for trick or treating. This activity ends @ 2000, per the city's regulation. I still have about 30 Fun-Size milk-chocolate candies/goodies left on my sombrero-shaped earthen bowl.)
Now to continue my narrative...While there at McDonald's I did visit Facebook and went back to my blog. From FB, I came across a shared link from one of my FB friends. I was touched by the article and the videos (courtesy of ABC News) about child abuse/molestation particularly of this so-called victim number one of the (infamous) former Penn State football coach who was finally convicted to life imprisonment (by a grand jury) for child molestation/sexual abuse, per media reports. I made a comment for my FB friend, telling her that I've read the article and watched the videos in which victim number one, Aaron Fisher, now 18 years old, was courageous to speak up, tell the truth about his case when interviewed by one of the correspondent-reporters of ABC News 20/20. I also thanked my FB friend for sharing that link to FB.
At that moment, my brain was alert, telling me to go to my blog and so I found myself writing down my thoughts via my blog. As a result, I have this post Wednesday's Thoughts (with the poem Trust No One which deals with a victim of child sexual abuse/battery/molestation and his or her conviction to fight for justice.) But, of course, I shared this post to my Facebook friends.
Having been loafing there at McDonald's for three hours plus, I finally decided to quit. I, therefore, drove back home, brought out our trash bins, the black and the blue and placed them at the designated area, by the curbside, ready for pick up tomorrow, Thursday.
Then, I prepared something for our dinner. I boiled black-eyed peas or beans with bitter mellon or "ampalaya" (from our fridge), and with sliced onion, a can of salmon, and flavored it with oyster sauce with a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. On another burner was a pan with that hot Italian sausages cooked with water until brown with fat or oil from them. And, of course, with left-over steamed rice. That's what's for dinner for us, my dear folks and friends. What have you prepared, by the way? Any simple recipe for dinner that you can share to me? Do appreciate it.
After cooking, you know what I did. Chow time, of course! Yeah, it's time for me to eat. You know me, I always like to eat just after cooking because I want to taste, first of all, what I prepared. I don't know if you agree with me when I say that home-cooked meal is better and healthier. But not all of the time, though. I know. All of us, sometimes or at some point in time, want to also eat out, to savor what this or that restaurant or eatery serves or prepares. Especially if that restaurant is well-advertised or well-known, either by word of mouth or by paid advertisement.
Well, this is all for now. Halloween is over. This is my last day of October 2012 narrative. Hope it didn't bore you to death or contribute to your ennui. Hope not. Anyway, until next time around. Thank you for your time. Take care and have a pleasant day, everyone! As always, I pray, "May God bless us all!" And, God bless our fellow men and women and their families who were hard-hit or badly or grossly affected by Hurricane Sandy. May they find comfort and joy in their recovery, with God's grace and mercy! To all victims of Hurricane Sandy, may they rest in peace. Amen. May their families find peace and comfort in their period of sorrow and grief. My personal and sincere condolence goes out to them.-chris a. quilpa, 31October2012
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
The Day After Sandy's Visit in Virginia
Happy Tuesday, everyone! Bye, bye Stormy Sandy! Thank you for sparing us (in our area) with your wrath, although you left us grounded yesterday to receive your tremendous rainfall. Yes, you dumped us with your unbelievable squalls and downpour that flooded our low-lying areas, saturating our grounds everywhere. Your "Frankenstorm" surged, damaging some roads and houses and businesses elsewhere (but not in our area, thanks to God), delaying and cancelling schools and travel flights, closing our public offices and buildings, but you didn't dampen/damage our spirit. You didn't blow or wash away our hopes, even if you downed some of trees and power lines, and destroyed some of our infrastructures, etc. Not at all, Sandy! Life is more precious, to us, than anything material. We'll survive and we'll see the Light at the end of the tunnel...We're safe and we continue praying. (To those victims of your power and fury, I pray, "may the souls of the faithful departed...through the mercy of God, rest in peace." Amen. May their families find comfort and loving care in their midst of sorrow and grief.)
Yes, Sandy, we're more prepared than ever. We're courageous and resilient, as ever now, to face life's uncertainties. We're hopeful, though, that we can pull through, that our life be back to normal, and that it will get better as we move on living our lives with our Faith and freedom. We're stronger and fearless because we have Faith. We put our trust in the Creator. And we believe in the love, protection, and goodness of our Almighty God, our Heavenly Father. Thanks to God that you're gone, and that (hopefully and prayerfully), you'll find your way out of our radar for good. Thanks, anyway. Yes, the worst is definitely over now in our area, although we're experiencing cold weather. What, winter is here already? No way, man! We need to get comfy! (FYI, I just switched our HVAC unit on from AC to heater today!)
To all of our TV news reporters and broadcasters, media people and meteorologists or weather men and women, and civilian and military personnel who were out there yesterday, repairing utilities and power, maintaining peace and order and security, and those involved in the rescue, cleaning, and administering support services to those affected by Hurricane Sandy, we thank you. Thank you to our doctors and healthcare professionals who have been taking care of our patients, especially our babies and elderly. Thank you to all of our public servants. Thank you for your unquestionable commitment, service and leadership. Kudos to everyone who deserves it. Thank you, good and gracious God. And thank you, Jesus.
My wife Freny, along with her sister Rose, went to work this morning. A little late than usual because of the two-hour delay reporting notification she received (via phone, and from local TV announcement) yesterday.
As usual, while I was using the restroom in our room, I did pray and meditate the Sorrowful Mysteries of the holy rosary (of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our Heavenly Mother to all) along with a video from YouTube. (While praying, I even shared the video I used to my Facebook friends, hoping and praying they did their part.) I also listened to some Catholic music videos by artists such as David Haas and Marty Haugen. I also shared a couple of selected videos from YouTube to our Facebook friends, to give them the opportunity to listen what I'm listening. I do hope you guys had the chance to listen and enjoy those music videos. Thanks YouTube and the video uploaders.
After breakfast, I prepared our bills to be mailed. Then, after getting dressed up, with warm jacket and a cap, I drove to the nearest post office to drop my mail. From there, I went to one of my banks to pay my monthly car payment. From there, I dropped by at Dollar Tree Market where I bought some (inexpensive) wine from Spain and U.S., some Thanksgiving cards, munchies and goodies for the visiting costumed kids who'll be here tomorrow evening. For Trick or Treating!
Remember Halloween? Well, it's a tradition here in the U.S., and other countries, to have candies for these cute, scary kids, you know. Yap, I'm ready for Halloween tomorrow evening. Nope, I'm not gonna be wearing any costume. Been there, done that, man! I remember, Freny and I used to bring our two kids, young Andrew and Tintin (in their Halloween costumes) in the mall and going from door to door in our neighborhoods to receive candies and treats. Arriving home, with bagful of goodies, we'd all be munching sweets while watching TV or doing their homework.
Well, what's for dinner, my dear folks and friends? I just cooked some sausages and green beans, and steamed rice. (Today, I decided to use our new rice cooker, with warmer. Freny and I bought this at NEX last week because we gave the old one to our son.) Thanks to God that we didn't experience any power interruptions in our area. I hope and pray that the millions of people (who have been in the dark since yesterday) in other states like New Jersey, New York, and up there will have their power/light restored soon. And that they can start their recovery and repair, and clean up of whatever that were damaged, etc.
Folks and friends, this is all for now. Until next time around. Take care and Have a wonderful day, everyone! May God bless us all, always!-chris a. quilpa, 30Oct2012
Yes, Sandy, we're more prepared than ever. We're courageous and resilient, as ever now, to face life's uncertainties. We're hopeful, though, that we can pull through, that our life be back to normal, and that it will get better as we move on living our lives with our Faith and freedom. We're stronger and fearless because we have Faith. We put our trust in the Creator. And we believe in the love, protection, and goodness of our Almighty God, our Heavenly Father. Thanks to God that you're gone, and that (hopefully and prayerfully), you'll find your way out of our radar for good. Thanks, anyway. Yes, the worst is definitely over now in our area, although we're experiencing cold weather. What, winter is here already? No way, man! We need to get comfy! (FYI, I just switched our HVAC unit on from AC to heater today!)
To all of our TV news reporters and broadcasters, media people and meteorologists or weather men and women, and civilian and military personnel who were out there yesterday, repairing utilities and power, maintaining peace and order and security, and those involved in the rescue, cleaning, and administering support services to those affected by Hurricane Sandy, we thank you. Thank you to our doctors and healthcare professionals who have been taking care of our patients, especially our babies and elderly. Thank you to all of our public servants. Thank you for your unquestionable commitment, service and leadership. Kudos to everyone who deserves it. Thank you, good and gracious God. And thank you, Jesus.
My wife Freny, along with her sister Rose, went to work this morning. A little late than usual because of the two-hour delay reporting notification she received (via phone, and from local TV announcement) yesterday.
As usual, while I was using the restroom in our room, I did pray and meditate the Sorrowful Mysteries of the holy rosary (of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our Heavenly Mother to all) along with a video from YouTube. (While praying, I even shared the video I used to my Facebook friends, hoping and praying they did their part.) I also listened to some Catholic music videos by artists such as David Haas and Marty Haugen. I also shared a couple of selected videos from YouTube to our Facebook friends, to give them the opportunity to listen what I'm listening. I do hope you guys had the chance to listen and enjoy those music videos. Thanks YouTube and the video uploaders.
After breakfast, I prepared our bills to be mailed. Then, after getting dressed up, with warm jacket and a cap, I drove to the nearest post office to drop my mail. From there, I went to one of my banks to pay my monthly car payment. From there, I dropped by at Dollar Tree Market where I bought some (inexpensive) wine from Spain and U.S., some Thanksgiving cards, munchies and goodies for the visiting costumed kids who'll be here tomorrow evening. For Trick or Treating!
Remember Halloween? Well, it's a tradition here in the U.S., and other countries, to have candies for these cute, scary kids, you know. Yap, I'm ready for Halloween tomorrow evening. Nope, I'm not gonna be wearing any costume. Been there, done that, man! I remember, Freny and I used to bring our two kids, young Andrew and Tintin (in their Halloween costumes) in the mall and going from door to door in our neighborhoods to receive candies and treats. Arriving home, with bagful of goodies, we'd all be munching sweets while watching TV or doing their homework.
Well, what's for dinner, my dear folks and friends? I just cooked some sausages and green beans, and steamed rice. (Today, I decided to use our new rice cooker, with warmer. Freny and I bought this at NEX last week because we gave the old one to our son.) Thanks to God that we didn't experience any power interruptions in our area. I hope and pray that the millions of people (who have been in the dark since yesterday) in other states like New Jersey, New York, and up there will have their power/light restored soon. And that they can start their recovery and repair, and clean up of whatever that were damaged, etc.
Folks and friends, this is all for now. Until next time around. Take care and Have a wonderful day, everyone! May God bless us all, always!-chris a. quilpa, 30Oct2012
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Weekend's Journal
Yay, it's rainy, stormy, windy in Hampton Roads! We're feeling the pinch of Hurricane Sandy from the Caribbean since yesterday. Prayerfully, we hope that everyone is safe and ready for any eventuality. To those victims of Hurricane Sandy in Haiti and other islands in the Caribbean, may the souls of our departed brothers and sisters, through the mercy of God, our Father, rest in peace. Amen. (The latest local news update we have in some parts of Hampton Roads is that there are flooded areas in Norfolk, Hampton, and other neighboring cities. Hopefully, water will recede in those flooded areas soon.) May God spare and deliver us from any crisis relevant to this weather (disturbance) system! God bless and keep us always! We trust in your care and love for us.
Yay, I couldn't believe it last night! I was writing my blog post, from our kitchen and continued to our room upstairs, when all of a sudden---BAM! it's gone! I was on my fourth or fifth paragraphs when my left pointing finger unconsciously or mistakenly pressed a key on my laptop, and everything was erased! Mind you, my dear folks and friends, I was so tired and feeling sleepy last night but I thought I could finish my post prior to going to bed. In a split of a second, everything was gone! So, I gave up my blogging since my bed has been waiting...
Referring to my Composition Book, here's what I recalled from what I've written for my blog post last night...
27Oct2012 (Saturday)
My thoughts after waking up:
@0847---Prayed along the rosary with a video on YouTube while I was using the restroom; Used a video uploaded by lovetrinity8; Meditated on the Joyful Mysteries.
After using the restroom and praying my rosary, I went back to our bedroom and surfed the 'Net. I came across a video or two on medical issues by certain certified/licensed doctor-lecturers. One of them was speaking about Human Fetal Circulation. Cardiology was the topic of the other doctor-lecturer who works in one of the well-known universities in California. These videos were so educational and highly informative, especially for those medical-nursing students. I did check on other video uploaders whose topics were about medicine and pharmacy or pharmacology. They're very interesting. Anyway, I had to stop my video-watching on YouTube because my wife just brought up a cupful of hot oatmeal with milk for my breakfast. Thanks a lot to my loving wife Freny.
At first, I was adamant to go with her but I gave in yesterday afternoon to Freny. Despite the (unwanted, unpleasant) weather disturbance swirling somewhere in the tropics and heading towards the Northestern U.S or Eastern Seaboard, i.e, Florida, the Carolinas, Virginia, Maryland, we went out to a neighboring city where we attended the one-year death anniversary of our friends' Mom. (We did attend their Mom's funeral last year, same month, and from then on we became closed friends. We even visited them, and stayed overnight in their house when we were on a week's vacation to California in mid-August, this year.) Lots of food, with guests/visitors present. We had the opportunity to see our friend Boy who came all the way from California, just to be with her two sisters and their remaining folks and relatives in Hampton Roads. We came to know one of their guests, Greg who informed us he came to the US first as a postgraduate student in physics. He also introduced us his visiting Dad, Viktor, who wasn't fluent in English. per Greg's account, he's married to one of our friends' nieces. And having bought their house in Norfolk, they've been married for two years, with no children yet. Currently, Gregory is working in one of the physics laboratories in another city. I did say this to Greg: You could be a physics teacher for they need Science teachers in school. But he was quick to answer: No, Chris, I'm more into research. Then, we continued our conversation in our friends' family room while their TV was on a Filipino cable channel (which I didn't mind because we were engrossed in eating and at the same time engaging in intermittent chat with Greg and our friend Boy. We didn't have the opportunity to talk to Greg's Filipino wife who was somewhere around the house with her fellow cousins and aunts? There was a group of our friends' guests/visitors who were playing cards in the kitchen, while some were in the living room chatting. Such occasion was truly an opportunity to meet new acquaintances and friends, making connections and interactions, engaging in conversations/discussions with topics ranging from economy, the forthcoming General Election 2012 in the U.S., etc.
From our friends', Freny and I went to NEX in Norfolk to buy a replacement to our old rice cooker that's inoperable already. Rain continued, on and off, intermittently. In short, the ground was wet yesterday (and even today, Sunday).
After dinner last night, I started watching music videos on YouTube. Then, after an hour or two, I started blogging. I continued it upstairs in our room, while TV was on. Then, in a split of a second, BAM! My blog post was gone! Nothing was saved when I tried to go over...Bedtime followed.
28Oct2012 (Sunday)
Awakened to the sound of our alarm-clock-radio that's always set on NPR (National Public Radio) at 6:00 a.m. everyday, I rose up from bed @ about 7:00 this morning, while Freny was still asleep. It was Bob Edwards Weekend on the radio. And Mr. Edwards's guest this morning was "Goosebumps" book author R.L. Stine. My thoughts (which I scribbled on my Composition Book) at that moment that Mr. Edwards was interviewing the author...
Then, it's the call of the restroom. Afterward, I prepared myself for Mass. I woke up Freny so she could prepare, too. I thought that Rose, my sis-in-law, was already preparing also in her room.
It continued raining, this morning, as we got out of the house for Sunday Mass at St. Paul's. But, of course, we dressed up appropriately for the weather. Freny was scheduled to serve as volunteer Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC) today. No, I wasn't on the list. But, lo and behold, I was called to fill in for someone who didn't show up because of inclement weather probably (or possibly). I'm game, Lord, I said to myself. I'm ready, as always. Rev. Fr. David, our pastor for four clustered parishes including St. Paul's Catholic Church, was our priest-celebrant. The Gospel, he read, was according to St. Mark. It spoke about Bartimaeus, a blind man, hearing Jesus called out loudly, "Jesus, son of David, have pity on me!" Jesus summoned him and, seeing his faith, cured him. Bartimaeus followed Jesus.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. David talked about Bartimaeus who didn't mind those people who prevented him to speak up by asking Jesus to help him see. Fr. David connected this experience to everyone who has something to say but s/he is probably feeling unworthy to say it or share such knowledge or skill/s to others. His main point, to my understanding, is that we have to be embolden to share whatever ideas/thoughts or experiences we have, especially on religious issues that may be useful to the whole parish or community of faith.
After the Mass, we had an opportunity to shake hands with friend-parishioners like Mike (Myrna's husband), Paul, and, of course, Rev. Father David. As I was about to put my cap and about to shake hands with Father David, he said, "I love your hat!" Thanks, Father, I replied, as I removed my hat just as I was about to descend from the steps of St. Paul's. (I bought that one in C-ville, a year ago, I think.) Now, at that moment, I told Freny that I have an idea what to give to Fr. David for Thanksgiving Day or Christmas. I hope I'll be able to find the same model or style, somewhere in any malls in the area. I doubt if they carry that style I have in the NEX. Well, we'll see.
We went to NEX after the Mass, had brunch there at this chain restaurant. Then, afterwards, we just roamed around the store. I bought a bottled of red wine, locally produced in Chesapeake. (It tastes good, for I've tried one before. Excellent, inexpensive table wine, though!) I also bought a soft-bound book, about Declaration of Independence and other writings/articles by 16th U.S. president Abraham Lincoln. (I paid the book ahead of time, while Freny and Rose were still window-shopping, I guess.) Yap, I've got to feed my mind, not only my belly, you know! I don't know about you, folks and friends, but I like/love books. I like to be enlightened and educated, like everybody else, I guess.
Arriving home, we found out that my red wine was missing! Freny phoned NEX. They have it! She told Andrew (the NEX employee whom the former checked the shirts and whatever merchandise she has out and paid) that we'd be there in an hour. BTW, Rose went to her part-time work. She'd be home at 6 p.m., I think so.
After changing clothes, from church clothes to casual wear, Freny and I found our way to NEX. On the road, we listened to songs of American Idol 2012 season 11 winner Phillip Phillips, just to keep us going amidst the inclement weather. Just to get our red wine we left off or forgot at the check out register awhile ago, we're back at NEX. From there, we proceeded to the Commissary store where we bought some stuff again. Over a hundred buck we spent right there just for the groceries.
Yeah, man! I did try to cook chili beans for dinner. Actually, I just wanted to try cooking this, because I found that chili from Wendy's a challenge for me. So that's what gave me an idea, from that chili beans Freny and Rose bought when they went to pick up Tintin at D-ville last weekend? Good! I did my own version of chili beans. After cooking, you know what I usually do, folks and friends. I tasted or ate it, with Freny. The latter decided to go to our friend Myrna's to share some of my cooking and that rice cakes that Rose bought from her co-worker today. (We dropped by to pick it up, from the store where Rose is working part-time, once we were on our way home.) That's what Freny did. I didn't go out with her, this time, because I decided to stay put and to start my blogging. And that's what I've been doing since Freny left and even when she arrived minutes ago. So, I think, I have to sign off now, my dear folks and friends.
Until next time around. Take care and have a pleasant Sunday, everyone! We have to get ready and brace ourselves with this weather disturbance that forecasters have predicted to be a powerful storm? (Yes, we just learned that Freny doesn't have school/work tomorrow. Since last night, one of the universities in Hampton Roads has already announced they don't have classes tomorrow, Monday. No classes tomorrow. Yup, classes are cancelled because of the incoming Hurricane Sandy in our area. That's good, I think. So we have to be prepared to be safe and to do what we have to do with whatever comes our way. We can always pray, though.) As always, May God bless us all!-chris a. quilpa, 28Oct2012
Yay, I couldn't believe it last night! I was writing my blog post, from our kitchen and continued to our room upstairs, when all of a sudden---BAM! it's gone! I was on my fourth or fifth paragraphs when my left pointing finger unconsciously or mistakenly pressed a key on my laptop, and everything was erased! Mind you, my dear folks and friends, I was so tired and feeling sleepy last night but I thought I could finish my post prior to going to bed. In a split of a second, everything was gone! So, I gave up my blogging since my bed has been waiting...
Referring to my Composition Book, here's what I recalled from what I've written for my blog post last night...
27Oct2012 (Saturday)
My thoughts after waking up:
Everyone prepares
for the coming of Jesus
to welcome Him home.
After using the restroom and praying my rosary, I went back to our bedroom and surfed the 'Net. I came across a video or two on medical issues by certain certified/licensed doctor-lecturers. One of them was speaking about Human Fetal Circulation. Cardiology was the topic of the other doctor-lecturer who works in one of the well-known universities in California. These videos were so educational and highly informative, especially for those medical-nursing students. I did check on other video uploaders whose topics were about medicine and pharmacy or pharmacology. They're very interesting. Anyway, I had to stop my video-watching on YouTube because my wife just brought up a cupful of hot oatmeal with milk for my breakfast. Thanks a lot to my loving wife Freny.
At first, I was adamant to go with her but I gave in yesterday afternoon to Freny. Despite the (unwanted, unpleasant) weather disturbance swirling somewhere in the tropics and heading towards the Northestern U.S or Eastern Seaboard, i.e, Florida, the Carolinas, Virginia, Maryland, we went out to a neighboring city where we attended the one-year death anniversary of our friends' Mom. (We did attend their Mom's funeral last year, same month, and from then on we became closed friends. We even visited them, and stayed overnight in their house when we were on a week's vacation to California in mid-August, this year.) Lots of food, with guests/visitors present. We had the opportunity to see our friend Boy who came all the way from California, just to be with her two sisters and their remaining folks and relatives in Hampton Roads. We came to know one of their guests, Greg who informed us he came to the US first as a postgraduate student in physics. He also introduced us his visiting Dad, Viktor, who wasn't fluent in English. per Greg's account, he's married to one of our friends' nieces. And having bought their house in Norfolk, they've been married for two years, with no children yet. Currently, Gregory is working in one of the physics laboratories in another city. I did say this to Greg: You could be a physics teacher for they need Science teachers in school. But he was quick to answer: No, Chris, I'm more into research. Then, we continued our conversation in our friends' family room while their TV was on a Filipino cable channel (which I didn't mind because we were engrossed in eating and at the same time engaging in intermittent chat with Greg and our friend Boy. We didn't have the opportunity to talk to Greg's Filipino wife who was somewhere around the house with her fellow cousins and aunts? There was a group of our friends' guests/visitors who were playing cards in the kitchen, while some were in the living room chatting. Such occasion was truly an opportunity to meet new acquaintances and friends, making connections and interactions, engaging in conversations/discussions with topics ranging from economy, the forthcoming General Election 2012 in the U.S., etc.
From our friends', Freny and I went to NEX in Norfolk to buy a replacement to our old rice cooker that's inoperable already. Rain continued, on and off, intermittently. In short, the ground was wet yesterday (and even today, Sunday).
After dinner last night, I started watching music videos on YouTube. Then, after an hour or two, I started blogging. I continued it upstairs in our room, while TV was on. Then, in a split of a second, BAM! My blog post was gone! Nothing was saved when I tried to go over...Bedtime followed.
28Oct2012 (Sunday)
Awakened to the sound of our alarm-clock-radio that's always set on NPR (National Public Radio) at 6:00 a.m. everyday, I rose up from bed @ about 7:00 this morning, while Freny was still asleep. It was Bob Edwards Weekend on the radio. And Mr. Edwards's guest this morning was "Goosebumps" book author R.L. Stine. My thoughts (which I scribbled on my Composition Book) at that moment that Mr. Edwards was interviewing the author...
We love to wear masks
to live our fantasy world
we love to pretend.
Then, it's the call of the restroom. Afterward, I prepared myself for Mass. I woke up Freny so she could prepare, too. I thought that Rose, my sis-in-law, was already preparing also in her room.
It continued raining, this morning, as we got out of the house for Sunday Mass at St. Paul's. But, of course, we dressed up appropriately for the weather. Freny was scheduled to serve as volunteer Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC) today. No, I wasn't on the list. But, lo and behold, I was called to fill in for someone who didn't show up because of inclement weather probably (or possibly). I'm game, Lord, I said to myself. I'm ready, as always. Rev. Fr. David, our pastor for four clustered parishes including St. Paul's Catholic Church, was our priest-celebrant. The Gospel, he read, was according to St. Mark. It spoke about Bartimaeus, a blind man, hearing Jesus called out loudly, "Jesus, son of David, have pity on me!" Jesus summoned him and, seeing his faith, cured him. Bartimaeus followed Jesus.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. David talked about Bartimaeus who didn't mind those people who prevented him to speak up by asking Jesus to help him see. Fr. David connected this experience to everyone who has something to say but s/he is probably feeling unworthy to say it or share such knowledge or skill/s to others. His main point, to my understanding, is that we have to be embolden to share whatever ideas/thoughts or experiences we have, especially on religious issues that may be useful to the whole parish or community of faith.
After the Mass, we had an opportunity to shake hands with friend-parishioners like Mike (Myrna's husband), Paul, and, of course, Rev. Father David. As I was about to put my cap and about to shake hands with Father David, he said, "I love your hat!" Thanks, Father, I replied, as I removed my hat just as I was about to descend from the steps of St. Paul's. (I bought that one in C-ville, a year ago, I think.) Now, at that moment, I told Freny that I have an idea what to give to Fr. David for Thanksgiving Day or Christmas. I hope I'll be able to find the same model or style, somewhere in any malls in the area. I doubt if they carry that style I have in the NEX. Well, we'll see.
We went to NEX after the Mass, had brunch there at this chain restaurant. Then, afterwards, we just roamed around the store. I bought a bottled of red wine, locally produced in Chesapeake. (It tastes good, for I've tried one before. Excellent, inexpensive table wine, though!) I also bought a soft-bound book, about Declaration of Independence and other writings/articles by 16th U.S. president Abraham Lincoln. (I paid the book ahead of time, while Freny and Rose were still window-shopping, I guess.) Yap, I've got to feed my mind, not only my belly, you know! I don't know about you, folks and friends, but I like/love books. I like to be enlightened and educated, like everybody else, I guess.
Arriving home, we found out that my red wine was missing! Freny phoned NEX. They have it! She told Andrew (the NEX employee whom the former checked the shirts and whatever merchandise she has out and paid) that we'd be there in an hour. BTW, Rose went to her part-time work. She'd be home at 6 p.m., I think so.
After changing clothes, from church clothes to casual wear, Freny and I found our way to NEX. On the road, we listened to songs of American Idol 2012 season 11 winner Phillip Phillips, just to keep us going amidst the inclement weather. Just to get our red wine we left off or forgot at the check out register awhile ago, we're back at NEX. From there, we proceeded to the Commissary store where we bought some stuff again. Over a hundred buck we spent right there just for the groceries.
Yeah, man! I did try to cook chili beans for dinner. Actually, I just wanted to try cooking this, because I found that chili from Wendy's a challenge for me. So that's what gave me an idea, from that chili beans Freny and Rose bought when they went to pick up Tintin at D-ville last weekend? Good! I did my own version of chili beans. After cooking, you know what I usually do, folks and friends. I tasted or ate it, with Freny. The latter decided to go to our friend Myrna's to share some of my cooking and that rice cakes that Rose bought from her co-worker today. (We dropped by to pick it up, from the store where Rose is working part-time, once we were on our way home.) That's what Freny did. I didn't go out with her, this time, because I decided to stay put and to start my blogging. And that's what I've been doing since Freny left and even when she arrived minutes ago. So, I think, I have to sign off now, my dear folks and friends.
Until next time around. Take care and have a pleasant Sunday, everyone! We have to get ready and brace ourselves with this weather disturbance that forecasters have predicted to be a powerful storm? (Yes, we just learned that Freny doesn't have school/work tomorrow. Since last night, one of the universities in Hampton Roads has already announced they don't have classes tomorrow, Monday. No classes tomorrow. Yup, classes are cancelled because of the incoming Hurricane Sandy in our area. That's good, I think. So we have to be prepared to be safe and to do what we have to do with whatever comes our way. We can always pray, though.) As always, May God bless us all!-chris a. quilpa, 28Oct2012
Friday, October 26, 2012
Friday's (Reflective) Thoughts
Happy Friday, everyone! TGIF (Thanks to God, It's Friday)! And we're looking forward to a wonderful weekend, in spite of an impending weather disturbance (storm or hurricane Sandy?) that's brewing somewhere in the southern tropics and heading off to the Eastern seaboard. Weather TV reports remind us that Storm/Hurricane Sandy will be felt/here in Hampton Roads by this weekend, if not Monday?
Well, whatever happens, we're living now---the present moment! This moment in our life is the one that matters now---my writing this blog post, sharing and communicating with you my thoughts, ideas. Carpe diem! Life is short and fleeting to be worrying, under stress. Let's keep and maintain our cool, my dear folks and friends! As they say, live life one day at a time. And, trust God and have faith. He'll deliver us from all of our angst and uncertainties. Smile and try to be happy! Peace!
Friday. TGIF! It's praying time for me while using the restroom this morning. Yes, dear folks and friends, I prayed along the rosary with a video from YouTube. It's Sorrowful Mysteries of the Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our Mother Mary and Queen of Heaven and Earth, and Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, our Savior, for all of us believers. Again, thanks to the video uploader and to YouTube. Thank you, good and gracious God! Thank you, Jesus!
Now, while surfing the 'net, after using the restroom and praying the rosary, I came across Halo Series videos uploaded or published by MachinimaPrime. Kinda cool, man! This sci-fi live-action video (war) games, on YouTube, are entertaining, and fun to watch! I find them educational, useful and influential, despite the fights and violence portrayed in them. The military-action drama in them are real and human, with all the robotic gadgets employed. You can just imagine how technology shapes and influences our lives and our future nowadays. How powerful our minds are when confronted with conflicts and uncertainties that are inevitable to occur even if we try to live a normal, peaceful life. Just wondering what's going on in our world of reality and fantasy! Let's accept the fact that there will always be war, wherever it may be, because we're humans and imperfect. With all of our wildest imaginations and crazy ideas, we're adventurous and exploratory, at the same time. We love to conquer and dominate. We're risky and explosive, at times. We're challenging and overwhelming, because we're thinking human beings.
Well, watching these videos reminded me of my son's old video games he has played with his classmates-friends before. I didn't pay so much attention to these videos before but now I'm beginning to like them. I know, I have a lot to catch up but I'm on my way there, slowly but surely. I maintain an open mind, you know. I believe there's always something to learn anew when you continue to explore and find out what's in, up, out there.
Anyway, my dear folks and friends, I just wish that you're doing well in these tough, but fun, times. For all we know, we're done with the Election 2012 and that we're back to normalcy, if ever there's normal life that we're longing for. But we have faith. And a family to count or depend on when necessary. That's all that matters.
As Proverb 3:5-6 states: "Trust in the Lord with all your might. and lean not unto thy own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy path." Fear not, my dear folks and friends! If God is with us, who can be against us?
This is all for now. Thanks for your time and patience and understanding. Until next time around. Take care and Have a wonderful Friday and weekend, everyone! May God bless us all! Always...chris a. quilpa, 26Oct2012
Well, whatever happens, we're living now---the present moment! This moment in our life is the one that matters now---my writing this blog post, sharing and communicating with you my thoughts, ideas. Carpe diem! Life is short and fleeting to be worrying, under stress. Let's keep and maintain our cool, my dear folks and friends! As they say, live life one day at a time. And, trust God and have faith. He'll deliver us from all of our angst and uncertainties. Smile and try to be happy! Peace!
Friday. TGIF! It's praying time for me while using the restroom this morning. Yes, dear folks and friends, I prayed along the rosary with a video from YouTube. It's Sorrowful Mysteries of the Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our Mother Mary and Queen of Heaven and Earth, and Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, our Savior, for all of us believers. Again, thanks to the video uploader and to YouTube. Thank you, good and gracious God! Thank you, Jesus!
Now, while surfing the 'net, after using the restroom and praying the rosary, I came across Halo Series videos uploaded or published by MachinimaPrime. Kinda cool, man! This sci-fi live-action video (war) games, on YouTube, are entertaining, and fun to watch! I find them educational, useful and influential, despite the fights and violence portrayed in them. The military-action drama in them are real and human, with all the robotic gadgets employed. You can just imagine how technology shapes and influences our lives and our future nowadays. How powerful our minds are when confronted with conflicts and uncertainties that are inevitable to occur even if we try to live a normal, peaceful life. Just wondering what's going on in our world of reality and fantasy! Let's accept the fact that there will always be war, wherever it may be, because we're humans and imperfect. With all of our wildest imaginations and crazy ideas, we're adventurous and exploratory, at the same time. We love to conquer and dominate. We're risky and explosive, at times. We're challenging and overwhelming, because we're thinking human beings.
Well, watching these videos reminded me of my son's old video games he has played with his classmates-friends before. I didn't pay so much attention to these videos before but now I'm beginning to like them. I know, I have a lot to catch up but I'm on my way there, slowly but surely. I maintain an open mind, you know. I believe there's always something to learn anew when you continue to explore and find out what's in, up, out there.
Anyway, my dear folks and friends, I just wish that you're doing well in these tough, but fun, times. For all we know, we're done with the Election 2012 and that we're back to normalcy, if ever there's normal life that we're longing for. But we have faith. And a family to count or depend on when necessary. That's all that matters.
As Proverb 3:5-6 states: "Trust in the Lord with all your might. and lean not unto thy own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy path." Fear not, my dear folks and friends! If God is with us, who can be against us?
This is all for now. Thanks for your time and patience and understanding. Until next time around. Take care and Have a wonderful Friday and weekend, everyone! May God bless us all! Always...chris a. quilpa, 26Oct2012
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Wednesday's Post
Happy Wednesday, everyone! How's the weather in your area, my dear folks and friends? Well, here in Hampton Roads, we have a beautiful, mild Fall weather. Plenty of sunshine, no sign of shower, with little breeze. Leaves of trees appear to be changing their colors as they start slowly falling down. In some areas, we've seen some already on the ground, like some scattered pumpkins displayed in specific areas. Looks like Halloween is undeniably forthcoming! Enjoying this weather, I am. And, I don't have any reason at all to complain. Thanks to God, life is good!
As usual, this morning, I prayed my rosary while still in bed. Since it's Wednesday today, I said and meditated on the Glorious Mysteries of the Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our Heavenly Mother. These are: 1) The Resurrection of Jesus 2) The Ascension of Jesus 3) The descent of the Holy Spirit 4) The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and 5) The Crowning or Coronation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
After doing my daily routine in the morning, I took my medicine for blood pressure maintenance. Then, I prepared myself to go out. (I kept putting it off. I got so lazy to go out of the house even if I were ready since yesterday to go and mail our bills to the nearest post office in neighboring city. Well, that's me. If I don't feel like going out, nobody can force me to do so, you know.)
I only had an apple on my way out to the post office. But while our van is warming up, I did bring out our trash bin by the curbside for tomorrow's pick up. Not much garbage in it, though.
From the post office, I drove to the Commissary to buy groceries. Arriving there after 15-20 minutes, I decided to fill up gas on our van prior to going to the Commissary store.
Pushing my grocery cart from one aisle to another, I bumped into a friend, Harold, from Holy Angels'. He was there shopping, too. We had a brief conversation. Just like the old times when we were attending Masses at Holy Angels' years ago. He asked how's my family. I told him we're doing well. I mentioned him about my two kids who are both working now, in two different places. When he asked about my wife, I told him, "she's busy in school, as usual." Anyway, we had to continue our shopping.
I couldn't believe it. I ended up paying more than $150 for the groceries! Well, what can I say but that's the way it is when you're shopping for food supplies for a week or more. Even if you stick to your shopping list there are times when you buy some stuff that come along in the process. At least, we have provisions for a week or two. Thanks to God!
On my way back home from the Commissary, I was enjoying my cinnamon swirl bun with water. I'm aware of my driving that I did drive slowly below the speed limit. I've come to realize now that there's no need to beat the speed limit or over because we'll get to our destination anyway in time. Yes, safety is everybody's responsibility. And, that we have to stay focused and not to get distracted by anything. (I know there are drivers out there who are reckless and crazy or "tarantado" and "kaskasero." They try to cut you off, overtake you, provoke you, etc.) We have to keep or maintain our cool, man! It's not worth having an accident that could be so destructive or fatal, you know. Again, safety is everyone's responsibility.
Now, you ask me, what's for dinner, my friend? Well, before I answer that (question) I have to unload my grocery, okay? And, after that, I nuked that one slice of leftover pizza from D-ville for my late lunch. Okay, I'm ready to prepare something for dinner. My dear folks and friends, I'm proud to tell you that I cooked beef stew and steamed white rice. In addition, we still have that leftover blackeye peas with "alokon" yesterday. Still tastes good, you know. Yes, we're ready to set the table. (Actually, as I've revealed to you before in my previous (older) post, I don't need to wait for my household once I've cooked a dish. I always eat after cooking because I feel like the food is better once it's newly-cooked. You know what I mean.) Ah the red wine, bring it on, man! I need it. I always have a good appetite, I don't know why. I love eating. Especially if I were the one who prepared the meal. Yay, my pants are getting tighter! Yap, I'm getting full. I don't think I still have (room or) the stomach for that dessert. Thank you anyway. Thank you, good and gracious God!
Well, this is all for now, my dear folks and friends. Until next time around. Take care and Have a wonderful day, everyone! As always, May God bless us all!-chris a. quilpa, 24Oct2012
As usual, this morning, I prayed my rosary while still in bed. Since it's Wednesday today, I said and meditated on the Glorious Mysteries of the Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our Heavenly Mother. These are: 1) The Resurrection of Jesus 2) The Ascension of Jesus 3) The descent of the Holy Spirit 4) The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and 5) The Crowning or Coronation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
After doing my daily routine in the morning, I took my medicine for blood pressure maintenance. Then, I prepared myself to go out. (I kept putting it off. I got so lazy to go out of the house even if I were ready since yesterday to go and mail our bills to the nearest post office in neighboring city. Well, that's me. If I don't feel like going out, nobody can force me to do so, you know.)
I only had an apple on my way out to the post office. But while our van is warming up, I did bring out our trash bin by the curbside for tomorrow's pick up. Not much garbage in it, though.
From the post office, I drove to the Commissary to buy groceries. Arriving there after 15-20 minutes, I decided to fill up gas on our van prior to going to the Commissary store.
Pushing my grocery cart from one aisle to another, I bumped into a friend, Harold, from Holy Angels'. He was there shopping, too. We had a brief conversation. Just like the old times when we were attending Masses at Holy Angels' years ago. He asked how's my family. I told him we're doing well. I mentioned him about my two kids who are both working now, in two different places. When he asked about my wife, I told him, "she's busy in school, as usual." Anyway, we had to continue our shopping.
I couldn't believe it. I ended up paying more than $150 for the groceries! Well, what can I say but that's the way it is when you're shopping for food supplies for a week or more. Even if you stick to your shopping list there are times when you buy some stuff that come along in the process. At least, we have provisions for a week or two. Thanks to God!
On my way back home from the Commissary, I was enjoying my cinnamon swirl bun with water. I'm aware of my driving that I did drive slowly below the speed limit. I've come to realize now that there's no need to beat the speed limit or over because we'll get to our destination anyway in time. Yes, safety is everybody's responsibility. And, that we have to stay focused and not to get distracted by anything. (I know there are drivers out there who are reckless and crazy or "tarantado" and "kaskasero." They try to cut you off, overtake you, provoke you, etc.) We have to keep or maintain our cool, man! It's not worth having an accident that could be so destructive or fatal, you know. Again, safety is everyone's responsibility.
Now, you ask me, what's for dinner, my friend? Well, before I answer that (question) I have to unload my grocery, okay? And, after that, I nuked that one slice of leftover pizza from D-ville for my late lunch. Okay, I'm ready to prepare something for dinner. My dear folks and friends, I'm proud to tell you that I cooked beef stew and steamed white rice. In addition, we still have that leftover blackeye peas with "alokon" yesterday. Still tastes good, you know. Yes, we're ready to set the table. (Actually, as I've revealed to you before in my previous (older) post, I don't need to wait for my household once I've cooked a dish. I always eat after cooking because I feel like the food is better once it's newly-cooked. You know what I mean.) Ah the red wine, bring it on, man! I need it. I always have a good appetite, I don't know why. I love eating. Especially if I were the one who prepared the meal. Yay, my pants are getting tighter! Yap, I'm getting full. I don't think I still have (room or) the stomach for that dessert. Thank you anyway. Thank you, good and gracious God!
Well, this is all for now, my dear folks and friends. Until next time around. Take care and Have a wonderful day, everyone! As always, May God bless us all!-chris a. quilpa, 24Oct2012
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
The Past Weekend, Yesterday and Today's Journal
Saturday, 20 Oct 2012---I was one of about 30 participants who attended an eight-hour class related to Driving Improvement Program in a neighboring city. (This is in connection with a speeding ticket I got sometime last month, one Sunday morning on my way to church. My very first time to have a driving-related ticket, yay! I was lucky that day!) Fee to this class was $65. Terry, the instructor, tried his best to make the class interesting by: 1) sharing some of his life experiences with his family 2) discussing issues about safe driving 3) showing videos and discussions followed 4) asking us why we're there attending his class.
He treated us with pizza for (late) lunch. I got to know a few of fellow class participants like Robert and Eric. Both are in the construction business/industry. The former has a speeding ticket. The latter, who I learned as the class progressed and the day went by that he's attending the class on voluntary basis and has just decided to join the local police force lately. When I asked how long is his police academy class before he becomes a police officer, he said it takes six months. I also learned that he's a veteran Sailor, having served nine years as an aviation mechanic. He has two young children, wife who's an ER nurse at a local hospital.
Every hour, in the class, we have ten minutes break---to stretch out, to use restroom, etc. Before 3:00 pm, we had a brief review or recap of the lessons (which are very educational and informative) about safe, responsible driving, Alcohol and Impaired Driving, Drinking and Driving, Car Crashes Incidents related to DUI (Driving Under the Influence), Emotions and Driving (road rage), Driving Emergencies, Ultimate Driving Challenge, etc.The last part of the class was taking a 20-question test. Then, the test was administered by Terry. At the end of class, Eric and I had handshake and wished each other Good luck! I got my Driving Improvement Program certificate for the completion of the class. (I will present or show this to the judge on my appointment next month.) Lesson learned: Observe rules and safety in driving, at all times. And slow down, observe speed limit! In my Composition Book, I wrote this My Thoughts: Safety is everyone's responsibility.
Sunday, 21 Oct 2012---Tintin spent the weekend with us. She's back in Hampton Roads because she's scheduled to play piano for a Christian church in a neighboring city, every other Sunday of the month. And she gets paid $100 for her playing piano for the Sunday church service. So, we attended that 9:00 a.m. Mass in our Catholic Church, at St. Mary's in another city, each time Tintin is home on weekend. But most of the time we go to our parish at St. Paul's in another neighboring city. Our pastor (of the four clustered parishes in our area), Rev. Fr. David, celebrated the Mass with us. Church attendance was full at St. Mary's, which is smaller (building-wise and attendance-wise) compared to St. Paul's.
After the Mass, I've wanted to attend the coffee-doughnut fellowship at St. Mary's multipurpose center. But we have to go for Tintin's piano church service. We drove to another city where Tintin played piano in that Christian church. Churchgoers there, I noticed/observed, were mostly seniors or retired.
After the church service attendance, we drove back closer to home and had lunch at our favorite Seafood Restaurant.
After lunch, we went home, prepared to bring Tintin back to D-ville where she works. It takes 3 1/2 hours drive, one way. With us, on the road trip, was our friend Myrna, a retired nurse and wife of Michael, our friend and fellow parishioner at St. Paul's. Myrna just wanted to see for herself the place.
We had one rest stop at a convenient store where I bought bottled iced tea for four of us. I like the strawberry-flavored versus the lemon-flavored tea. Arriving in D-ville, we passed Tintin's apartment because we decided to show Myrna the public high school where Tintin works. And also the only Catholic church and school in the city.
Then, we drove to Tintin's place. (BTW, my wife Freny did the driving, as usual for long trips. And, on the way, we refueled our van even if it has half-full tank.) Her apartment mate and fellow college advisor was already there. She's also a UVa graduate, like Tintin.
We left D-ville at about 8:30 p.m. We had one rest stop, at Pizza Restaurant, where we bought two large pizza for $23 plus tax. I bought two because we'd give one (pepperoni pizza) for Myrna and the other one (sausage pizza) for us.
Irresistible because it's newly-baked and the smell was so good, I ate one slice of our sausage pizza. Freny had one, too, while driving. When offered, Myrna said she's okay. She decided to munch pistachios. She said she was still full having eaten roast beef sandwich and fries (we had them from Arby's, next to the gas station/convenient store where we bought a gallon of milk and a loaf of bread for Tintin).
Arriving in Hampton Roads, past 11:30 p.m., Freny and I brought Myrna back to her house where Mike was waiting for us. They thanked us for the pizza we gave them. We both said "Good night!" as freny and I headed back home. Thanks to God, we arrived home safe and sound, before midnight! Tired we were. I went upstairs to our room, while Freny was downstairs with Rose, her sister, my sis-in-law.
Monday, 22 October 2012---I had these thoughts, written/scribbled on my Composition Book, prior to doing laundry. Yes, it's Laundry Monday for me! I haven't had laundry of my accumulated stuff, used unwashed church clothes, for months! I tell you, I can go on attending any occasion with one-time use of my clothes, without washing them at one time. Not to brag but the truth is that I have enough clothes (new and slightly used) to wear a lifetime, man! Thanks to God! I don't know about you but I love wearing my wardrobe. Especially those casual wear, you know. Lots of them. So many that our closet is too small to accommodate them all! Yay, I can't believe how much we've accumulated through the years! I need to do something about it. I know what to do. Yes, I know; we're kinda guilty of this thing called "hoarding?" But not as bad as others I see on TV, though, to the point that their house is already too messy and disorganized and unkempt. We're doing fine, I believe. Lesson learned: Material things will pass. We, human beings, wanderers on planet Earth, will one day have our turn to pass this life to the next, like our ancestors did.
But let me get back to my original thoughts. Here's what I've noted on my Composition Book yesterday. It's untitled:
Tuesday, 23 Oct 2012---I prayed the Holy Rosary along with the videos on YouTube, while using the restroom in our bedroom. Since I used the restroom quick, I wasn't able to finish my rosary. So, I continued it in bed, with my laptop on one of the videos on YouTube. Then, after that I watched/listened to another video on praying the rosary, focusing/meditating on the Sorrowful Mysteries. I was still feeling groggy and sleepy at that time.
While still snuggling in bed, (I like this Fall weather!), I did listen to some Catholic church songs on YouTube. Then, afterwards, while browsing the videos on the right side on my screen's laptop, I happened to come across this video uploaded by steve silvia (from San Diego, CA). Anyway, I got stuck on one of his video which he titled Salvation through the Catholic Church, the Bible alone teaching is a lie, with a background music "Come to the Water," sung or performed by St. Louis Jesuits. I tried reading the notes on his video and also the comments. He started by asking, "Did you know that religions go by the name of their founder?" That's when I learned something about Martin Luther, the so-called founder of Protestantism?, John Calvin of the Presbyterian religion, and John Smith of the Mormon Church. Silvia noted that the former was a Catholic priest "who fell away from the Church through pride, and married a nun" and eventually excommunicated because "he was the first to raise the standard of rebellion and revolt against the (Catholic) Church of God." Comments about the video were aplenty. I read some of them and Silvia tried to share his thoughts and ideas, too.
Well, I continued listening to Silvia's music videos (Catholic Church songs) even while I'm downstairs in the kitchen, finding out what's to eat for my "brunch" and at the same time preparing something for our dinner. There's one video of his that I'd like to share to my Facebook friends but I don't know if it's possible. The artist is Anathema and the song is titled Anyone, Anywhere? It's very touching. I like the melody, too. Sort of very mellow but dramatic. It has this them about homelessness. Yes, we have homeless in our midst, that's the truth. It's a global, societal issue that you and I have to face, like poverty and sickness, and crime.
For "brunch," I had that leftover roast beef sandwich from D-ville, and a cup of coffee, and that peanut butter-strawberry rhubarb preserves (from D-ville) sandwich. Pretty heavy, huh? Anyway, here's what I've decided to cook for our dinner: purple hull peas or black-eyed beans with some left-over sausage and left-over baked scallopini pork chops, and a can of salmon sardines, and a bag of frozen dried vegetable (from the Philippines, I don't remember the name, at the moment. It's not "malunggay." Yes, I know now. It's "alokon" in Ilokano.) How's that, huh? Yummy! For flavoring, I used a tablespoon or two of oyster sauce. Bon appetit! I know for sure that someone will be happy when she gets home.
So, without further delay, my dear folks and friends, I've got to sign off now. You know that I have something to do. (I still have to watch my International soap on YouTube! Probably later on, after cooking and eating dinner. Sounds like a good plan to me.) Enough of my blogging, this time. Until next time around. Thanks for your time. Take care and Have a terrific Tuesday, everyone! And, as always, I pray, "May God bless us all!"-chris a. quilpa, 23 October 2012
He treated us with pizza for (late) lunch. I got to know a few of fellow class participants like Robert and Eric. Both are in the construction business/industry. The former has a speeding ticket. The latter, who I learned as the class progressed and the day went by that he's attending the class on voluntary basis and has just decided to join the local police force lately. When I asked how long is his police academy class before he becomes a police officer, he said it takes six months. I also learned that he's a veteran Sailor, having served nine years as an aviation mechanic. He has two young children, wife who's an ER nurse at a local hospital.
Every hour, in the class, we have ten minutes break---to stretch out, to use restroom, etc. Before 3:00 pm, we had a brief review or recap of the lessons (which are very educational and informative) about safe, responsible driving, Alcohol and Impaired Driving, Drinking and Driving, Car Crashes Incidents related to DUI (Driving Under the Influence), Emotions and Driving (road rage), Driving Emergencies, Ultimate Driving Challenge, etc.The last part of the class was taking a 20-question test. Then, the test was administered by Terry. At the end of class, Eric and I had handshake and wished each other Good luck! I got my Driving Improvement Program certificate for the completion of the class. (I will present or show this to the judge on my appointment next month.) Lesson learned: Observe rules and safety in driving, at all times. And slow down, observe speed limit! In my Composition Book, I wrote this My Thoughts: Safety is everyone's responsibility.
Sunday, 21 Oct 2012---Tintin spent the weekend with us. She's back in Hampton Roads because she's scheduled to play piano for a Christian church in a neighboring city, every other Sunday of the month. And she gets paid $100 for her playing piano for the Sunday church service. So, we attended that 9:00 a.m. Mass in our Catholic Church, at St. Mary's in another city, each time Tintin is home on weekend. But most of the time we go to our parish at St. Paul's in another neighboring city. Our pastor (of the four clustered parishes in our area), Rev. Fr. David, celebrated the Mass with us. Church attendance was full at St. Mary's, which is smaller (building-wise and attendance-wise) compared to St. Paul's.
After the Mass, I've wanted to attend the coffee-doughnut fellowship at St. Mary's multipurpose center. But we have to go for Tintin's piano church service. We drove to another city where Tintin played piano in that Christian church. Churchgoers there, I noticed/observed, were mostly seniors or retired.
After the church service attendance, we drove back closer to home and had lunch at our favorite Seafood Restaurant.
After lunch, we went home, prepared to bring Tintin back to D-ville where she works. It takes 3 1/2 hours drive, one way. With us, on the road trip, was our friend Myrna, a retired nurse and wife of Michael, our friend and fellow parishioner at St. Paul's. Myrna just wanted to see for herself the place.
We had one rest stop at a convenient store where I bought bottled iced tea for four of us. I like the strawberry-flavored versus the lemon-flavored tea. Arriving in D-ville, we passed Tintin's apartment because we decided to show Myrna the public high school where Tintin works. And also the only Catholic church and school in the city.
Then, we drove to Tintin's place. (BTW, my wife Freny did the driving, as usual for long trips. And, on the way, we refueled our van even if it has half-full tank.) Her apartment mate and fellow college advisor was already there. She's also a UVa graduate, like Tintin.
We left D-ville at about 8:30 p.m. We had one rest stop, at Pizza Restaurant, where we bought two large pizza for $23 plus tax. I bought two because we'd give one (pepperoni pizza) for Myrna and the other one (sausage pizza) for us.
Irresistible because it's newly-baked and the smell was so good, I ate one slice of our sausage pizza. Freny had one, too, while driving. When offered, Myrna said she's okay. She decided to munch pistachios. She said she was still full having eaten roast beef sandwich and fries (we had them from Arby's, next to the gas station/convenient store where we bought a gallon of milk and a loaf of bread for Tintin).
Arriving in Hampton Roads, past 11:30 p.m., Freny and I brought Myrna back to her house where Mike was waiting for us. They thanked us for the pizza we gave them. We both said "Good night!" as freny and I headed back home. Thanks to God, we arrived home safe and sound, before midnight! Tired we were. I went upstairs to our room, while Freny was downstairs with Rose, her sister, my sis-in-law.
Monday, 22 October 2012---I had these thoughts, written/scribbled on my Composition Book, prior to doing laundry. Yes, it's Laundry Monday for me! I haven't had laundry of my accumulated stuff, used unwashed church clothes, for months! I tell you, I can go on attending any occasion with one-time use of my clothes, without washing them at one time. Not to brag but the truth is that I have enough clothes (new and slightly used) to wear a lifetime, man! Thanks to God! I don't know about you but I love wearing my wardrobe. Especially those casual wear, you know. Lots of them. So many that our closet is too small to accommodate them all! Yay, I can't believe how much we've accumulated through the years! I need to do something about it. I know what to do. Yes, I know; we're kinda guilty of this thing called "hoarding?" But not as bad as others I see on TV, though, to the point that their house is already too messy and disorganized and unkempt. We're doing fine, I believe. Lesson learned: Material things will pass. We, human beings, wanderers on planet Earth, will one day have our turn to pass this life to the next, like our ancestors did.
But let me get back to my original thoughts. Here's what I've noted on my Composition Book yesterday. It's untitled:
I'm a sinner
I know
I'm not a saint
But I want to be one
Someday.
Today
I believe
I have a chance
I have an opportunity
In living with His Word
In doing good
In thinking no evil
In dying a good, simple, humble life
For Him and others.
I'm a sinner
But not forever.
(c) 2012 by chris a. quilpa
While still snuggling in bed, (I like this Fall weather!), I did listen to some Catholic church songs on YouTube. Then, afterwards, while browsing the videos on the right side on my screen's laptop, I happened to come across this video uploaded by steve silvia (from San Diego, CA). Anyway, I got stuck on one of his video which he titled Salvation through the Catholic Church, the Bible alone teaching is a lie, with a background music "Come to the Water," sung or performed by St. Louis Jesuits. I tried reading the notes on his video and also the comments. He started by asking, "Did you know that religions go by the name of their founder?" That's when I learned something about Martin Luther, the so-called founder of Protestantism?, John Calvin of the Presbyterian religion, and John Smith of the Mormon Church. Silvia noted that the former was a Catholic priest "who fell away from the Church through pride, and married a nun" and eventually excommunicated because "he was the first to raise the standard of rebellion and revolt against the (Catholic) Church of God." Comments about the video were aplenty. I read some of them and Silvia tried to share his thoughts and ideas, too.
Well, I continued listening to Silvia's music videos (Catholic Church songs) even while I'm downstairs in the kitchen, finding out what's to eat for my "brunch" and at the same time preparing something for our dinner. There's one video of his that I'd like to share to my Facebook friends but I don't know if it's possible. The artist is Anathema and the song is titled Anyone, Anywhere? It's very touching. I like the melody, too. Sort of very mellow but dramatic. It has this them about homelessness. Yes, we have homeless in our midst, that's the truth. It's a global, societal issue that you and I have to face, like poverty and sickness, and crime.
For "brunch," I had that leftover roast beef sandwich from D-ville, and a cup of coffee, and that peanut butter-strawberry rhubarb preserves (from D-ville) sandwich. Pretty heavy, huh? Anyway, here's what I've decided to cook for our dinner: purple hull peas or black-eyed beans with some left-over sausage and left-over baked scallopini pork chops, and a can of salmon sardines, and a bag of frozen dried vegetable (from the Philippines, I don't remember the name, at the moment. It's not "malunggay." Yes, I know now. It's "alokon" in Ilokano.) How's that, huh? Yummy! For flavoring, I used a tablespoon or two of oyster sauce. Bon appetit! I know for sure that someone will be happy when she gets home.
So, without further delay, my dear folks and friends, I've got to sign off now. You know that I have something to do. (I still have to watch my International soap on YouTube! Probably later on, after cooking and eating dinner. Sounds like a good plan to me.) Enough of my blogging, this time. Until next time around. Thanks for your time. Take care and Have a terrific Tuesday, everyone! And, as always, I pray, "May God bless us all!"-chris a. quilpa, 23 October 2012
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Thoughtful Thursday
It's Thursday, everyone! Plain and simple. Hope and pray that you're doing well. I'm okay, just to let you know. Thank you, good and gracious God, for I'm alive!
I prayed my rosary (with Luminous Mysteries in mind) while still in bed, this morning. After probably thirty minutes, I rose up from bed to use our restroom. While waiting for the time, I decided to watch on YouTube that German soap (with English subtitle) that I've been watching for months. Again, I'm amazed at the role social media, like YouTube, plays in information dissemination and education. That in a split of a second, you'll see, hear, watch what happened or what's going on in the world.
After my restroom use and watching videos on YouTube, I arranged our bed, then went downstairs in my pj. To have breakfast and to figure out what to cook or prepare for dinner. But while downstairs, I found myself walking out into our backyard where I took care of scattered rubbish weeds, under the morning sunshine. I was about to put a bag of garbage in the black trash bin that's in front of the house by the curbside but it was already emptied. So I did bring that black bin back into our backyard, while the other blue bin hasn't been emptied yet. FYI, the garbage collector truck comes once a week, and that is, every Thursday.
I was sweaty when I came in the house. I removed my clothes, except my underwear. With my clothes in one hand, I went upstairs to change. Then, I went downstairs in the kitchen, but this time with my laptop. Logging on into the Internet, I went straight to YouTube and watched videos. First, I watched a video about Islam. The, after ten minutes, maybe, I came across a video of an advocate-activist/YouTuber who claims to live in his private SUV vehicle for months. Wow, he's got lots of videos on YouTube, with different topics or social issues he talked about! A Californian, he seems smart, engaging, passionate, and insightful and entertaining, too. He seems angry, and very much disappointed and frustrated, at times. And, one thing more, he's an advocate for LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender). From his talks, he denounces the two-party system and advocates the alternative party candidate for this coming Election Day on November 6, 2012. He seems to make sense in what he's talking about. There was also that video in which he talked about socialism and capitalism, etc.
Anyway, while watching his videos and discussions, I came to realize that there are people out there who live in their vehicles for whatever reasons they have, just as there are homeless everywhere. This time, I recalled what I have written in one of my previous blog posts that deals with homelessness and poverty in America.
It's disheartening to find out why things happen the way they are, yet we have choices and freedoms living in a democratic, free-loving society like the U.S. My mind is filled with lots of questions that I don't know the answers. I keep on wondering why do we have such and such problems, etc. Hay, the more I come to know something, the more I get confused and with doubts, even about my faith, sometimes. Ah, life ...so complex and complicated, can be confusing and demanding, can never be fair, to my knowledge and observation. Why is it so, dear God? I need to pray for guidance and enlightenment...
This is all for now, my dear folks and friends. Until next time around. Take care and Have a nice day, everyone! Peace! May God bless US always!-chris a. quilpa, 18 Oct 2012
I prayed my rosary (with Luminous Mysteries in mind) while still in bed, this morning. After probably thirty minutes, I rose up from bed to use our restroom. While waiting for the time, I decided to watch on YouTube that German soap (with English subtitle) that I've been watching for months. Again, I'm amazed at the role social media, like YouTube, plays in information dissemination and education. That in a split of a second, you'll see, hear, watch what happened or what's going on in the world.
After my restroom use and watching videos on YouTube, I arranged our bed, then went downstairs in my pj. To have breakfast and to figure out what to cook or prepare for dinner. But while downstairs, I found myself walking out into our backyard where I took care of scattered rubbish weeds, under the morning sunshine. I was about to put a bag of garbage in the black trash bin that's in front of the house by the curbside but it was already emptied. So I did bring that black bin back into our backyard, while the other blue bin hasn't been emptied yet. FYI, the garbage collector truck comes once a week, and that is, every Thursday.
I was sweaty when I came in the house. I removed my clothes, except my underwear. With my clothes in one hand, I went upstairs to change. Then, I went downstairs in the kitchen, but this time with my laptop. Logging on into the Internet, I went straight to YouTube and watched videos. First, I watched a video about Islam. The, after ten minutes, maybe, I came across a video of an advocate-activist/YouTuber who claims to live in his private SUV vehicle for months. Wow, he's got lots of videos on YouTube, with different topics or social issues he talked about! A Californian, he seems smart, engaging, passionate, and insightful and entertaining, too. He seems angry, and very much disappointed and frustrated, at times. And, one thing more, he's an advocate for LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender). From his talks, he denounces the two-party system and advocates the alternative party candidate for this coming Election Day on November 6, 2012. He seems to make sense in what he's talking about. There was also that video in which he talked about socialism and capitalism, etc.
Anyway, while watching his videos and discussions, I came to realize that there are people out there who live in their vehicles for whatever reasons they have, just as there are homeless everywhere. This time, I recalled what I have written in one of my previous blog posts that deals with homelessness and poverty in America.
It's disheartening to find out why things happen the way they are, yet we have choices and freedoms living in a democratic, free-loving society like the U.S. My mind is filled with lots of questions that I don't know the answers. I keep on wondering why do we have such and such problems, etc. Hay, the more I come to know something, the more I get confused and with doubts, even about my faith, sometimes. Ah, life ...so complex and complicated, can be confusing and demanding, can never be fair, to my knowledge and observation. Why is it so, dear God? I need to pray for guidance and enlightenment...
This is all for now, my dear folks and friends. Until next time around. Take care and Have a nice day, everyone! Peace! May God bless US always!-chris a. quilpa, 18 Oct 2012
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Tuesday Thoughts
Happy Tuesday, everyone!
Last night, I went to bed late. I don't know about you, dear folks and friends, but there are times that I don't feel like sleeping early. Especially if I'm doing something that's so interesting that I couldn't refuse but to finish it. I'm talking about watching a movie on YouTube. What's so interesting about this movie that robbed me of my sleep? Well, it was kinda dark, surprisingly historical, but brutal and fatal. At first it didn't seem to be gory but it was. In the end, though, the protagonists survived the ordeal.
The film, though it claims to be fictitious, has something to do with college fraternities. Prior to watching the movie, I have found out earlier, or early evening last night, about this "ragging" (the psychological and physical torture inflicted by senior students to new students or "pledges" in school), while I came across a video about it on YouTube. That was my first time to come to know the term, which is similar to bullying or hazing in schools or colleges. Later on, I learned that it was employed by the military to build unit or team cohesiveness. Somehow, after World War I, these military personnel who survived, returned home from war, and eventually went on to college to further their education, were the ones who introduced this activity in school/colleges/universities they attended. Little did I know then that ragging was rampant in countries like Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh (from Wikipedia). (I ended up reading a report about this topic by a certain Indian organization which advocates the ban on ragging in colleges and universities.)
Anyway, I was wondering if ever there's benefit/s derived from ragging. What good is there about ragging? If there's nothing beneficial about this activity, then why does society condone its practice? Just wondering, though.
Well, this is one interesting thing about the Internet, specifically YouTube, which I'm becoming an aficionado, so to speak. You'll never know what you'll find out while using the Internet. That's why I've mentioned before that the power of the Internet continues to amaze me, while I continue to learn things. (Thanks YouTube, Google, Blogger, Wikipedia, and Facebook.) And, at times, you'll never know who or what to believe from the ones you've read or viewed or watched. At times, confusion is the word that comes to mind, in stead of enlightenment. That's why I have to be cautious. I have to try to weigh things before I make decisions or judgement. That'w where my Faith comes into play. I try to pray to our Almighty God for guidance and enlightenment that what I've said or done is the right thing and not the other way around. Although I'm aware that I'm a sinner, like everybody else, I try to stay the course to a faithful life, one that keeps on trying to do good and to do His will. Now, you ask me, how do you know if you're doing God's will? That's between me and our Almighty Father, you know. He knows that I've been trying to follow His commandments, be an honorable and humble man, and law-abiding citizen.
This morning, I prayed my rosary (contemplating on the Sorrowful Mysteries) while in bed. Mother Mary, pray for us, your children! Then, I did use the restroom (doing routine, elimination of waste, that is!). Afterwards, I'm herewith writing this blog post while still in our bedroom. Outside, it's sunny and bright, with clear, blue skies. No, I don't see any Canadian geese on the school's playground this moment. They must be somewhere else this time. I see cars parked on the school's premises. The atmosphere is kinda calm, quiet and peaceful! Thank you, good and gracious God, for such a beautiful, nice and wonderful Fall weather! Thank you, Jesus!
This is all for now. Until next time around, my dear folks and friends. Take care and Have a terrific, turbulent-free Tuesday, everyone! As always, I pray, "May God bless us all!"-chris a. quilpa, 16Oct2012
Last night, I went to bed late. I don't know about you, dear folks and friends, but there are times that I don't feel like sleeping early. Especially if I'm doing something that's so interesting that I couldn't refuse but to finish it. I'm talking about watching a movie on YouTube. What's so interesting about this movie that robbed me of my sleep? Well, it was kinda dark, surprisingly historical, but brutal and fatal. At first it didn't seem to be gory but it was. In the end, though, the protagonists survived the ordeal.
The film, though it claims to be fictitious, has something to do with college fraternities. Prior to watching the movie, I have found out earlier, or early evening last night, about this "ragging" (the psychological and physical torture inflicted by senior students to new students or "pledges" in school), while I came across a video about it on YouTube. That was my first time to come to know the term, which is similar to bullying or hazing in schools or colleges. Later on, I learned that it was employed by the military to build unit or team cohesiveness. Somehow, after World War I, these military personnel who survived, returned home from war, and eventually went on to college to further their education, were the ones who introduced this activity in school/colleges/universities they attended. Little did I know then that ragging was rampant in countries like Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh (from Wikipedia). (I ended up reading a report about this topic by a certain Indian organization which advocates the ban on ragging in colleges and universities.)
Anyway, I was wondering if ever there's benefit/s derived from ragging. What good is there about ragging? If there's nothing beneficial about this activity, then why does society condone its practice? Just wondering, though.
Well, this is one interesting thing about the Internet, specifically YouTube, which I'm becoming an aficionado, so to speak. You'll never know what you'll find out while using the Internet. That's why I've mentioned before that the power of the Internet continues to amaze me, while I continue to learn things. (Thanks YouTube, Google, Blogger, Wikipedia, and Facebook.) And, at times, you'll never know who or what to believe from the ones you've read or viewed or watched. At times, confusion is the word that comes to mind, in stead of enlightenment. That's why I have to be cautious. I have to try to weigh things before I make decisions or judgement. That'w where my Faith comes into play. I try to pray to our Almighty God for guidance and enlightenment that what I've said or done is the right thing and not the other way around. Although I'm aware that I'm a sinner, like everybody else, I try to stay the course to a faithful life, one that keeps on trying to do good and to do His will. Now, you ask me, how do you know if you're doing God's will? That's between me and our Almighty Father, you know. He knows that I've been trying to follow His commandments, be an honorable and humble man, and law-abiding citizen.
This morning, I prayed my rosary (contemplating on the Sorrowful Mysteries) while in bed. Mother Mary, pray for us, your children! Then, I did use the restroom (doing routine, elimination of waste, that is!). Afterwards, I'm herewith writing this blog post while still in our bedroom. Outside, it's sunny and bright, with clear, blue skies. No, I don't see any Canadian geese on the school's playground this moment. They must be somewhere else this time. I see cars parked on the school's premises. The atmosphere is kinda calm, quiet and peaceful! Thank you, good and gracious God, for such a beautiful, nice and wonderful Fall weather! Thank you, Jesus!
This is all for now. Until next time around, my dear folks and friends. Take care and Have a terrific, turbulent-free Tuesday, everyone! As always, I pray, "May God bless us all!"-chris a. quilpa, 16Oct2012
Monday, October 15, 2012
Monday Musings
Good Monday, everyone!
Here we are again, as we begin another week of living life with Faith and Love! As I'm writing this blog post, I'd like you to guess where I am at the present moment. You betcha, I'm at McDonald's where I just had my breakfast or "brunch?"
Before I go on, I'd like to tell you that I did pray my rosary (Joyful Mysteries) this morning while still in bed and while our alarm-clock-radio was on since 6:00 o'clock am. (It's regularly or automatically set at that time, for my wife Freny who goes to school-work before seven.)
Before leaving our house this morning for McDonald's, I did also continue a little bit of that laundry chores that my wife left off last night. I folded the clothes that were in the dryer and put the ones that were washed (but not dry) in the dryer. In the meantime while waiting for the clothes to be done, I did a little walk around in our wooden deck, by our backyard overlooking the school playground. Guess what I saw from a distance at the school playground? About fifty Canadian geese! They're congregating in that elementary school playground. And unperturbed by a lawn maintenance crew, mowing the vast playground with his noisy lawn mower. Anyway, I had a bit of vitamin D from the sun this morning.And, fresh, crispy cool air from trees nearby our neighborhood. What a feeling of relief! Truly a blessing to be alive and well! Thank you, Almighty God! And thank you, Jesus!
Now, as I continue developing this thoughtful narrative, I've noticed that more and more people are coming in to dine here at McDonald's. Well, it's lunchtime, that's why. Besides the place is almost always occupied with intermittent diners from different walks of life. Such is business, especially in the fast food industry. Blue and white-collar employees, military personnel on lunch break, ordinary workers or wage-earners, come to eat or enjoy their bites out of the fast food restaurant's famous burgers and fries, and either McCafe or whatever beverage the customers prefer to drink. It's for convenience, Man! In about ten-fifteen minutes, these customers are done, having enjoyed their "eat" while resting their stomach for a while before they go back to their respective work. Such is life in the fast lane, huh? Fast food with fast service, with a smile at times, from uniformed McDonald's employees. And to each his/her own, unmindful of other's business.! At least, that's how I look at it, each time I come here not only to spend less than five dollars for breakfast or "brunch" but also to just chill out and have that so-called "slice of life" outside of my house. As I've mentioned in my previous posts, I'm just trying to enjoy life now, living the present moment well and letting time takes its course, while managing my chronic lower back pain, etc. It's true, life is too short so I don't want to make it shorter by doing foolishness that endangers my one and only life. No, I won't succumb to such and such foolish idea or thought that's against my Faith principle.
BTW, before I forget, I just had this "total baldness" haircut since Saturday. My FilAm barber at NEX didn't believe me when I said I wanted my head to be an all-out clean or complete shaved off. When he handed me a mirror showing me what he did, I disagreed. I reiterated what I said: clean head, please! He had no choice/option but to redo my "haircut." But I gave him a reasonable tip he couldn't refuse. "Thanks, Man!" he said as my wife and I were leaving the shop for the Commissary that Saturday afternoon (this past weekend).
Yesterday, Sunday, as usual, my wife Freny and I and my sis-in-law Rose attended the second Mass at St. Paul's. Freny and I were scheduled as volunteer Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. We did Cup 3 and 4. That is, we gave out or distributed the consecrated wine (the Blood of Christ) to our fellow parishioners. Rev. Fr. David, our pastor of the four clustered parishes, officiated or celebrated the Sunday mass with us. He reminded us about the Catholic Church's observance of the Year of Faith, from October 2012 to November 2013, the ways in which we deepen our Faith and our role in the New Evangelization of the Church. (I did try my best sharing some articles {related to this issue} from Catholic links to our Facebook friends last week, with the hope that they've had a chance or opportunity to read them.)
Well, I better sign off now. Until next time around, my dear folks and friends. Thank you for your time. Take care and have a nice day, everyone! As always, "May God bless us all!"-chris a. quilpa, 15Oct2012
Here we are again, as we begin another week of living life with Faith and Love! As I'm writing this blog post, I'd like you to guess where I am at the present moment. You betcha, I'm at McDonald's where I just had my breakfast or "brunch?"
Before I go on, I'd like to tell you that I did pray my rosary (Joyful Mysteries) this morning while still in bed and while our alarm-clock-radio was on since 6:00 o'clock am. (It's regularly or automatically set at that time, for my wife Freny who goes to school-work before seven.)
Before leaving our house this morning for McDonald's, I did also continue a little bit of that laundry chores that my wife left off last night. I folded the clothes that were in the dryer and put the ones that were washed (but not dry) in the dryer. In the meantime while waiting for the clothes to be done, I did a little walk around in our wooden deck, by our backyard overlooking the school playground. Guess what I saw from a distance at the school playground? About fifty Canadian geese! They're congregating in that elementary school playground. And unperturbed by a lawn maintenance crew, mowing the vast playground with his noisy lawn mower. Anyway, I had a bit of vitamin D from the sun this morning.And, fresh, crispy cool air from trees nearby our neighborhood. What a feeling of relief! Truly a blessing to be alive and well! Thank you, Almighty God! And thank you, Jesus!
Now, as I continue developing this thoughtful narrative, I've noticed that more and more people are coming in to dine here at McDonald's. Well, it's lunchtime, that's why. Besides the place is almost always occupied with intermittent diners from different walks of life. Such is business, especially in the fast food industry. Blue and white-collar employees, military personnel on lunch break, ordinary workers or wage-earners, come to eat or enjoy their bites out of the fast food restaurant's famous burgers and fries, and either McCafe or whatever beverage the customers prefer to drink. It's for convenience, Man! In about ten-fifteen minutes, these customers are done, having enjoyed their "eat" while resting their stomach for a while before they go back to their respective work. Such is life in the fast lane, huh? Fast food with fast service, with a smile at times, from uniformed McDonald's employees. And to each his/her own, unmindful of other's business.! At least, that's how I look at it, each time I come here not only to spend less than five dollars for breakfast or "brunch" but also to just chill out and have that so-called "slice of life" outside of my house. As I've mentioned in my previous posts, I'm just trying to enjoy life now, living the present moment well and letting time takes its course, while managing my chronic lower back pain, etc. It's true, life is too short so I don't want to make it shorter by doing foolishness that endangers my one and only life. No, I won't succumb to such and such foolish idea or thought that's against my Faith principle.
BTW, before I forget, I just had this "total baldness" haircut since Saturday. My FilAm barber at NEX didn't believe me when I said I wanted my head to be an all-out clean or complete shaved off. When he handed me a mirror showing me what he did, I disagreed. I reiterated what I said: clean head, please! He had no choice/option but to redo my "haircut." But I gave him a reasonable tip he couldn't refuse. "Thanks, Man!" he said as my wife and I were leaving the shop for the Commissary that Saturday afternoon (this past weekend).
Yesterday, Sunday, as usual, my wife Freny and I and my sis-in-law Rose attended the second Mass at St. Paul's. Freny and I were scheduled as volunteer Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. We did Cup 3 and 4. That is, we gave out or distributed the consecrated wine (the Blood of Christ) to our fellow parishioners. Rev. Fr. David, our pastor of the four clustered parishes, officiated or celebrated the Sunday mass with us. He reminded us about the Catholic Church's observance of the Year of Faith, from October 2012 to November 2013, the ways in which we deepen our Faith and our role in the New Evangelization of the Church. (I did try my best sharing some articles {related to this issue} from Catholic links to our Facebook friends last week, with the hope that they've had a chance or opportunity to read them.)
Well, I better sign off now. Until next time around, my dear folks and friends. Thank you for your time. Take care and have a nice day, everyone! As always, "May God bless us all!"-chris a. quilpa, 15Oct2012
Friday, October 5, 2012
Random Thoughts of Yesterday and Today, TGIF!
I've just finished using the restroom and praying along the Luminous Mysteries of the Holy Rosary of our Blessed Mother Mary, Mother of Jesus, our Savior (via a video on YouTube), yesterday morning at about 9:00 o'clock, when my cell phone rang. At that very moment I was engrossed watching/listening to a video, which I happened to come across, explaining why a certain "holy" man or follower of God, a so-called "evangelizer" was not what he claims to be. (FYI, I've come across a couple of videos of this uploader on YouTube before and he seems very convincing and as if he knows what he's talking about because of his unquestionable research about such and such topic, especially pertaining to true Catholicism.)
I let the video on YouTube continue running while I grabbed, flipped through and answered my phone. It was Andrew, my young adult who currently works in The Capital but resides in The Land of Mary. He called me to inform that his car, parked outside of his apartment-house, was broken into. That the passenger glass window was broken and that his GPS (Global Positioning System) unit was stolen or missing. As a parent, I sort of "interrogated" him to get facts, asking a couple of questions as to how did he find out, how did he think happen, and why. Eventually, I told him to call the police to report what happened, if he hasn't done so. And, to call our car insurance, too. I was about to remind him to call/notify his work but he said he already did. "Do what you have to do and update me, okay?Take care and be safe." That's what I said to him prior to hanging up my cellphone.
In the course of event, I kept communicating with Andrew to find out if there's any new development about the incident or the breaking-in of his car. He said the police were there and took info. He said he already notified his work, contacted our car insurance, has an appointment in the afternoon to go to the nearest car window replacement shop, arranged by our car insurance agent, for the window replacement, and that he has to pay $50 or $60 only. The rest is taken care of by our insurance. That's good, I said. From him, I learned that he has to go to his work first, driving his car (before going to his appointment) because it's his last day, yesterday, to meet one of his classes there at work. And he has to be there. Again I said, "do what you have to do, Son, and keep me posted." He said yes, and "thank you, Dad."
Fast forward. Yesterday morning, I also called my young adult daughter Tintin to find out how she's doing since it's her first day at work yesterday in D-ville. I left her a message in her cellphone when I couldn't get hold of her. I supposed she got there at work safely (via her first time driving independently) and that she's getting orientation of the work, etc.
Although I heard or knew something already before about the person under discussion in the video, I continued my video-watching/listening on YouTube. I also checked on another video uploader whose video has a similar topic, but with a guest who tried to clarify some points about the concerned person.
Before 11:00 o'clock yesterday morning, I was having my McBreakfast sandwich, with a cup of coffee with cream and sugar, at the nearest McRestaurant. While enjoying my "brunch," and reading yesterday's edition of the local community's newspapers (which I used to be an active letter-to-the-editor writer turned regular volunteer or unpaid (guest) "columnist" in 2008), my wife Freny phoned me, as usual, from her school-work. I told her where I was and what I was doing, and where I've planned to go and do next. She usually calls me during that time of day to find out how am I doing, and where I am, etc. How loving, how sweet, huh? (Initially, I didn't mention at all to her about what happened to Andrew's car. I don't want her to worry, though.) She said she's going to eat her (home-cooked) lunch. "Go for it," I said. "I also bought you and Rose (my sis-in-law) that 2 for $3 McBreakfast sandwiches." She asked me if I already called Tintin. I answered yes and "left her a message. probably she's busy at work." I assured her to call her (Tintin) back again. After exchanging that routine three important words, "I love you," we hung up each other's phone.
While still at McRestaurant, I've noticed or observed people arriving to the restaurant for lunch, by groups. I saw this family, sans a Dad, with two young middle or high school-aged boys with their grandma, Mom, and another female, presumably a friend of Mom. They were occupying a round table of four or five while waiting for their food. I overheard the Mom saying to her two sons to just go to the next table next to them.
BTW, as soon as I saw them coming in the thought of school came to mind for the two boys. And it was only Thursday yesterday. Not a holiday or no classes in schools, both public and private, to my knowledge.
Curious, and concerned (I thought) I was, I asked one of the adults or the boys if they're home-schooled. The grandma said they are. My forethought was answered. I was clarified or enlightened. I was about to ask a couple more questions about home-schooling, i.e., requirements/qualifications, if any, as to home-school teacher, how long have the boys been home-schooled, whether or not if and when the boys are allowed to participate in public school sports activities, testing/monitoring progress of learning, U.S. Department of Education guidelines with regards to home-schooling, etc. But, I hesitated when they were busy enjoying their food.
Aside from the uniformed military personnel coming in for lunch, there's this woman with young girls and a baby on a stroller waiting for their food also, while occupying a rectangular table on my right side. They appeared to be the same people that I saw walking around the neighborhood when I was driving along the community and on my way to McRestaurant. But without a man , or a father, with them. Man, that was a long distance stroll! I was right! They were the ones strolling around slowly under the sun. I said Hi and introduced myself to the young black woman, probably in her early thirties. I offered our van if ever they need a ride going back to our subvidision. The woman said they're okay. And added, "thank you."
After my "brunch," I did what I've planned to go and do: bought and mailed/sent a "Get Well Card" for one of my sisters in California who recently visited the hospital for chest pain.There was one thing that I modified with one of my plans yesterday. Instead of going to pay personally my cell phone bill in the office as I usually do for the past six months, I've thought of just mailing it (while I was half-way to their office but dropped by a Driving Improvement School for inquiry). That's exactly what I did, after I've mailed that "Get Well Soon" card for my younger sister, and after pumping gas to our van at a nearby gas station-convenient store.
At home, I called Andrew on my cellphone. He said that he's having lunch closed to where his car is getting fixed or repaired. Again, I reminded him to update me. Then, I got a text message. It's from Tintin. "Busy@work." That's the entire message. I tried to phone her. I got lucky, this time, to talk briefly to her. Briefly, I say, because I know she's busy at work, being her first day yesterday. I was glad and thankful to hear from her that she's arrived safely at work and doing well. At that point, I told her the news about her brother's car. She was surprised, as expected. I reminded her about safety, to "do this and that" check in her car, to never leave anything visible out there in her car that's a target for, you know, break-in and/or robbery. Well, I know and am aware that she and her brother are now grown up and starting to try to live their life independently. But as a parent, I feel obligated to still share my thoughts and to remind them of things that they may not have thought of or that they may have overlooked. That's me.
One time, years ago, I told the two, especially Andrew, that I won't give advice unless they seek one from me. You know, I've learned and got used to let them go to explore the world, and learn more about life on their own. Yes, I, for one, want them to go out of their comfort zone, since they started college, to experience life. There's one thing, though that I always tell them: You are responsible and accountable for your action/s, now that you're adults. Yes, I let them decide for themselves what they want to do in their life. After all, that's their life to live. And I, as their Dad, am always there to support them in my capacity and whatever I can. As for my wife, Freny has a different view about parenting, dealing with our two children. I understand her for that maternal/motherly instinct. (At times, we have sort of disagreement or argument about matters pertaining to our children. I try to be always that logical or rational, though. I don't wanna say if I make more sense, the fact that I believe in my heart that I'm more open-minded and more experienced in other aspects of life. I am upfront when I say that I've known, experienced, and lived life the hard. And I'm not ashamed to tell the whole wide world about my life story, for it's an open book.)
Okay, while I was watching a British soap opera on YouTube, with our TV set in the family room on one of the local TV channels airing a long standing TV soap or drama, Freny called informing me that she and Rose were on their way home from school-work. That's the time that I decided to tell her about Andrew's car in which the latter's GPS unit was stolen. Surprised, and worried, she was? Of course, definitely, as expected! Well, she was already telling me that we've got to buy him a new one, that we're going to see him this weekend! "Helicopter Mom," I uttered. And then, I remarked, "whatever you decide, 'Mang," I said. BTW, we call each other 'Mang (short for Mamang or Mommy) and 'Pang or Papang (for Pappy or Poppy?). Our two children call us Dad (from Andrew) or Papa (from Tintin) and Mama.
Last night, while Rose, my sis-in-law was in her part-time job (four hours work) at a clothing store, and Freny was taking a nap, after the two have eaten their sandwiches from McRestaurant, I was preparing something for dinner while our TV was on for newscast. I thought of cooking pasta with hot ground sausage and, of course, tomato-based pasta sauce. First, I checked to make sure I have the ingredients for my recipe which I have had the, fortunately. I brought them all out and then started cooking. Two burners were on at the same time. One for the pasta and the other for the frozen, uncooked ground hot sausage. In thirty minutes, I was done cooking! Half of the cooked sausage was mixed with that casserole of boiled pasta (mixed whole wheat grain) with pasta sauce, and the other half was set aside. That leftover sausage can be eaten with boiled rice, you know.
But, of course, I tasted/ate what I cooked, not bothering to wake up Freny. I know, she's tired from her teaching yesterday afternoon. Plus, I doubt if she got enough sleep last night. Anyway, as soon as I was done, I continued watching other European soap that I've started watching and following on YouTube. (I tell you, folks and friends, how glad and thankful I am for having a laptop from my nephew Tony. And, I still have that old one that Andrew used in college, six years ago? as a back up. It's slow but it still works.)
No, I didn't have the time to write my blog post yesterday. I was not in the mood but overwhelmed with minor house chores. I wanted, too, but I was too tired already when I went upstairs in our room. That was after nine last night. At that time, Freny already woke up. I told her I already ate my dinner and if she wanted to eat, the table was ready. I mean, the food was ready on the table.
Upstairs, I did read a couple of Catholic blogs from the ones I've been following, and did visit briefly Facebook. That's when I read Andrew's stating that his car got broken into. I read some of his friends' comments, too. I did comment, too. I wrote, "thanks to God that your car is (already) fixed. Be safe and vigilant, as always! And learn a lesson from this experience, ok, son? May God bless you always!" After a few minutes, Freny also commented. In this connection, Freny and I had a chance to talk to him, knowing he's already back in his apartment-house.
TGIF! (Thanks to God It's Friday!) Well, this early morning at 3:39, I woke up to the sound of Freny's hands typing on her laptop computer (loaned from her school). She said she's doing her lesson plan. At this time of the day? At dawn? So, she hasn't been to bed, yet? I rose up, walked my way to our restroom, in our bedroom, to take a leak. Then, I went back to bed. With the distinct sound of the laptop keys being constantly pounded by Freny's fingers, I could hardly get back to sleep! (As you may know, folks and friends, my ears are that so sensitive to sounds, I tell you. Though my visions are faltering me, especially my right eye that's always constantly tearing, my ears are too sharp for any slight whisper or silent talk? Really!)
So, I did turn on my laptop and read some Catholic blogs, and researched on a couple of topics in Wikipedia. As I keep on saying, the internet technology continues to amaze me with so many stuff in it to digest or just pass it on...Freny was snoring when I was doing my reading. She came to bed almost 4:00 o'clock A.M!
I went back to bed when our alarm-clock-radio (set at 6:00 o'clock a.m., daily, and on NPR), sounded off. Thirty minutes after, Freny has no choice but to rise up and prepare herself for her school-work.
I felt kinda tired when I walk up this morning. I know, it has something to do with my unusual sleeping pattern today. But, I'm thankful to be alive and see and hear the sights and sounds of our world. I can still manage to smile and laugh, though. And, praise and say thank you, Lord! Thank you, Jesus! Mother Mary, pray for us! Blessed Mother Teresa and Blessed John Paul, and all the Angels and Saints who have done Your will, pray for us, sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. Thank you, YouTube and Google and Blogger, and Facebook, and Wikipedia.
Here I've got to sign off for now.Until next time around, my dear folks and friends. Take care and have a fabulous Friday and a wonderful weekend, everyone! Thank you for your time. Thank you, God and thank you, Jesus! As always, I pray, "May God bless us all!-chris a. quilpa, 05Oct2012.
I let the video on YouTube continue running while I grabbed, flipped through and answered my phone. It was Andrew, my young adult who currently works in The Capital but resides in The Land of Mary. He called me to inform that his car, parked outside of his apartment-house, was broken into. That the passenger glass window was broken and that his GPS (Global Positioning System) unit was stolen or missing. As a parent, I sort of "interrogated" him to get facts, asking a couple of questions as to how did he find out, how did he think happen, and why. Eventually, I told him to call the police to report what happened, if he hasn't done so. And, to call our car insurance, too. I was about to remind him to call/notify his work but he said he already did. "Do what you have to do and update me, okay?Take care and be safe." That's what I said to him prior to hanging up my cellphone.
In the course of event, I kept communicating with Andrew to find out if there's any new development about the incident or the breaking-in of his car. He said the police were there and took info. He said he already notified his work, contacted our car insurance, has an appointment in the afternoon to go to the nearest car window replacement shop, arranged by our car insurance agent, for the window replacement, and that he has to pay $50 or $60 only. The rest is taken care of by our insurance. That's good, I said. From him, I learned that he has to go to his work first, driving his car (before going to his appointment) because it's his last day, yesterday, to meet one of his classes there at work. And he has to be there. Again I said, "do what you have to do, Son, and keep me posted." He said yes, and "thank you, Dad."
Fast forward. Yesterday morning, I also called my young adult daughter Tintin to find out how she's doing since it's her first day at work yesterday in D-ville. I left her a message in her cellphone when I couldn't get hold of her. I supposed she got there at work safely (via her first time driving independently) and that she's getting orientation of the work, etc.
Although I heard or knew something already before about the person under discussion in the video, I continued my video-watching/listening on YouTube. I also checked on another video uploader whose video has a similar topic, but with a guest who tried to clarify some points about the concerned person.
Before 11:00 o'clock yesterday morning, I was having my McBreakfast sandwich, with a cup of coffee with cream and sugar, at the nearest McRestaurant. While enjoying my "brunch," and reading yesterday's edition of the local community's newspapers (which I used to be an active letter-to-the-editor writer turned regular volunteer or unpaid (guest) "columnist" in 2008), my wife Freny phoned me, as usual, from her school-work. I told her where I was and what I was doing, and where I've planned to go and do next. She usually calls me during that time of day to find out how am I doing, and where I am, etc. How loving, how sweet, huh? (Initially, I didn't mention at all to her about what happened to Andrew's car. I don't want her to worry, though.) She said she's going to eat her (home-cooked) lunch. "Go for it," I said. "I also bought you and Rose (my sis-in-law) that 2 for $3 McBreakfast sandwiches." She asked me if I already called Tintin. I answered yes and "left her a message. probably she's busy at work." I assured her to call her (Tintin) back again. After exchanging that routine three important words, "I love you," we hung up each other's phone.
While still at McRestaurant, I've noticed or observed people arriving to the restaurant for lunch, by groups. I saw this family, sans a Dad, with two young middle or high school-aged boys with their grandma, Mom, and another female, presumably a friend of Mom. They were occupying a round table of four or five while waiting for their food. I overheard the Mom saying to her two sons to just go to the next table next to them.
BTW, as soon as I saw them coming in the thought of school came to mind for the two boys. And it was only Thursday yesterday. Not a holiday or no classes in schools, both public and private, to my knowledge.
Curious, and concerned (I thought) I was, I asked one of the adults or the boys if they're home-schooled. The grandma said they are. My forethought was answered. I was clarified or enlightened. I was about to ask a couple more questions about home-schooling, i.e., requirements/qualifications, if any, as to home-school teacher, how long have the boys been home-schooled, whether or not if and when the boys are allowed to participate in public school sports activities, testing/monitoring progress of learning, U.S. Department of Education guidelines with regards to home-schooling, etc. But, I hesitated when they were busy enjoying their food.
Aside from the uniformed military personnel coming in for lunch, there's this woman with young girls and a baby on a stroller waiting for their food also, while occupying a rectangular table on my right side. They appeared to be the same people that I saw walking around the neighborhood when I was driving along the community and on my way to McRestaurant. But without a man , or a father, with them. Man, that was a long distance stroll! I was right! They were the ones strolling around slowly under the sun. I said Hi and introduced myself to the young black woman, probably in her early thirties. I offered our van if ever they need a ride going back to our subvidision. The woman said they're okay. And added, "thank you."
After my "brunch," I did what I've planned to go and do: bought and mailed/sent a "Get Well Card" for one of my sisters in California who recently visited the hospital for chest pain.There was one thing that I modified with one of my plans yesterday. Instead of going to pay personally my cell phone bill in the office as I usually do for the past six months, I've thought of just mailing it (while I was half-way to their office but dropped by a Driving Improvement School for inquiry). That's exactly what I did, after I've mailed that "Get Well Soon" card for my younger sister, and after pumping gas to our van at a nearby gas station-convenient store.
At home, I called Andrew on my cellphone. He said that he's having lunch closed to where his car is getting fixed or repaired. Again, I reminded him to update me. Then, I got a text message. It's from Tintin. "Busy@work." That's the entire message. I tried to phone her. I got lucky, this time, to talk briefly to her. Briefly, I say, because I know she's busy at work, being her first day yesterday. I was glad and thankful to hear from her that she's arrived safely at work and doing well. At that point, I told her the news about her brother's car. She was surprised, as expected. I reminded her about safety, to "do this and that" check in her car, to never leave anything visible out there in her car that's a target for, you know, break-in and/or robbery. Well, I know and am aware that she and her brother are now grown up and starting to try to live their life independently. But as a parent, I feel obligated to still share my thoughts and to remind them of things that they may not have thought of or that they may have overlooked. That's me.
One time, years ago, I told the two, especially Andrew, that I won't give advice unless they seek one from me. You know, I've learned and got used to let them go to explore the world, and learn more about life on their own. Yes, I, for one, want them to go out of their comfort zone, since they started college, to experience life. There's one thing, though that I always tell them: You are responsible and accountable for your action/s, now that you're adults. Yes, I let them decide for themselves what they want to do in their life. After all, that's their life to live. And I, as their Dad, am always there to support them in my capacity and whatever I can. As for my wife, Freny has a different view about parenting, dealing with our two children. I understand her for that maternal/motherly instinct. (At times, we have sort of disagreement or argument about matters pertaining to our children. I try to be always that logical or rational, though. I don't wanna say if I make more sense, the fact that I believe in my heart that I'm more open-minded and more experienced in other aspects of life. I am upfront when I say that I've known, experienced, and lived life the hard. And I'm not ashamed to tell the whole wide world about my life story, for it's an open book.)
Okay, while I was watching a British soap opera on YouTube, with our TV set in the family room on one of the local TV channels airing a long standing TV soap or drama, Freny called informing me that she and Rose were on their way home from school-work. That's the time that I decided to tell her about Andrew's car in which the latter's GPS unit was stolen. Surprised, and worried, she was? Of course, definitely, as expected! Well, she was already telling me that we've got to buy him a new one, that we're going to see him this weekend! "Helicopter Mom," I uttered. And then, I remarked, "whatever you decide, 'Mang," I said. BTW, we call each other 'Mang (short for Mamang or Mommy) and 'Pang or Papang (for Pappy or Poppy?). Our two children call us Dad (from Andrew) or Papa (from Tintin) and Mama.
Last night, while Rose, my sis-in-law was in her part-time job (four hours work) at a clothing store, and Freny was taking a nap, after the two have eaten their sandwiches from McRestaurant, I was preparing something for dinner while our TV was on for newscast. I thought of cooking pasta with hot ground sausage and, of course, tomato-based pasta sauce. First, I checked to make sure I have the ingredients for my recipe which I have had the, fortunately. I brought them all out and then started cooking. Two burners were on at the same time. One for the pasta and the other for the frozen, uncooked ground hot sausage. In thirty minutes, I was done cooking! Half of the cooked sausage was mixed with that casserole of boiled pasta (mixed whole wheat grain) with pasta sauce, and the other half was set aside. That leftover sausage can be eaten with boiled rice, you know.
But, of course, I tasted/ate what I cooked, not bothering to wake up Freny. I know, she's tired from her teaching yesterday afternoon. Plus, I doubt if she got enough sleep last night. Anyway, as soon as I was done, I continued watching other European soap that I've started watching and following on YouTube. (I tell you, folks and friends, how glad and thankful I am for having a laptop from my nephew Tony. And, I still have that old one that Andrew used in college, six years ago? as a back up. It's slow but it still works.)
No, I didn't have the time to write my blog post yesterday. I was not in the mood but overwhelmed with minor house chores. I wanted, too, but I was too tired already when I went upstairs in our room. That was after nine last night. At that time, Freny already woke up. I told her I already ate my dinner and if she wanted to eat, the table was ready. I mean, the food was ready on the table.
Upstairs, I did read a couple of Catholic blogs from the ones I've been following, and did visit briefly Facebook. That's when I read Andrew's stating that his car got broken into. I read some of his friends' comments, too. I did comment, too. I wrote, "thanks to God that your car is (already) fixed. Be safe and vigilant, as always! And learn a lesson from this experience, ok, son? May God bless you always!" After a few minutes, Freny also commented. In this connection, Freny and I had a chance to talk to him, knowing he's already back in his apartment-house.
TGIF! (Thanks to God It's Friday!) Well, this early morning at 3:39, I woke up to the sound of Freny's hands typing on her laptop computer (loaned from her school). She said she's doing her lesson plan. At this time of the day? At dawn? So, she hasn't been to bed, yet? I rose up, walked my way to our restroom, in our bedroom, to take a leak. Then, I went back to bed. With the distinct sound of the laptop keys being constantly pounded by Freny's fingers, I could hardly get back to sleep! (As you may know, folks and friends, my ears are that so sensitive to sounds, I tell you. Though my visions are faltering me, especially my right eye that's always constantly tearing, my ears are too sharp for any slight whisper or silent talk? Really!)
So, I did turn on my laptop and read some Catholic blogs, and researched on a couple of topics in Wikipedia. As I keep on saying, the internet technology continues to amaze me with so many stuff in it to digest or just pass it on...Freny was snoring when I was doing my reading. She came to bed almost 4:00 o'clock A.M!
I went back to bed when our alarm-clock-radio (set at 6:00 o'clock a.m., daily, and on NPR), sounded off. Thirty minutes after, Freny has no choice but to rise up and prepare herself for her school-work.
I felt kinda tired when I walk up this morning. I know, it has something to do with my unusual sleeping pattern today. But, I'm thankful to be alive and see and hear the sights and sounds of our world. I can still manage to smile and laugh, though. And, praise and say thank you, Lord! Thank you, Jesus! Mother Mary, pray for us! Blessed Mother Teresa and Blessed John Paul, and all the Angels and Saints who have done Your will, pray for us, sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. Thank you, YouTube and Google and Blogger, and Facebook, and Wikipedia.
Here I've got to sign off for now.Until next time around, my dear folks and friends. Take care and have a fabulous Friday and a wonderful weekend, everyone! Thank you for your time. Thank you, God and thank you, Jesus! As always, I pray, "May God bless us all!-chris a. quilpa, 05Oct2012.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
What a Wonderful Wednesday!
A wonderful Wednesday to all of you, dear folks and friends! With a gorgeous Fall weather over Hampton Roads, it's such a great or perfect time to be out there, enjoying a 30-minute stroll around the neighborhood this morning at about 9:00 o'clock. Nice, mild weather, with clear, bright, sunny skies, is so conducive to good health, doing even simple physical conditioning such as stretching and brisk walking. Amazing feeling! That is, after praying the Glorious Mysteries of the Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
After my stroll this morning, I accompanied my daughter Tintin to do her driving so she'll get used to her new car and rules on the road, prior to going to her new job assignment in another city in the State this weekend. As I've previously mentioned in one of my blog posts, she needs a little polishing in her driving. She needs to do a little practice driving around so she'll get used to it. BTW, she has had her driving license since third year college. But she didn't have a need to drive around their Univ campus because she lived in one of the college dorms.
While on the wheel, she got a word from me to drop by at the nearest McDonald restaurant. There, we had breakfast. After breakfast, she resumed her driving with my guidance. She drove to Interstate highway, practiced changing lanes, etc. While on the road, my wife Freny called informing me she has just left school and now on the road (because she took a half-day off just so she'd accompany me to an appointment in downtown). In about 20-30 minutes, TinTin and I arrived home. Freny was by our driveway, still in the car, with engine on. She was taking a nap! She was surprised when I woke her up.
After taking a quick shower and getting dressed up, I, along with Freny, went to my appointment in downtown. Tintin decided not to join us.
What an another learning experience for me to have gone to that appointment downtown today! First, Freny and I got to see the new building in downtown for the first time. (It's good that we were in the old building early this afternoon, only to be redirected to go to the new building. We were never notified of the closure of the old building.) Secondly, I realized I wasn't the only one who had that appointment, but some showed up to take care of something, too. Third, I became more aware of something that involves slowing down, not speeding, while retired, and taking time or trying to enjoy life in the fast lane or busy world we live in.
Arriving home after the appointment, we're glad to see or have two packages from my sisters in California. One of the packages contained bags of glutinous rice flour, main ingredient for baking "bibingka" or rice cakes. For the other package, we have vegetables like string beans, squash, okra, banana-type(?) pepper, bitter melon or "ampalaya (Filipino) or "paria" (Ilokano), and eggplants, long (Japanese kind?) and small or mini, for "pinakbet." All the California produce were wrapped in local Philippine newspapers in the Bay Area. Neat!
For all of the goodies we received today, we called our sisters to inform them that we've received the packages, and, of course, thanked them for their thoughtfulness, goodness and generosity. Thank you, gracious God, and thank you, Jesus!
Well, this is all for now. Until next time around. Take care and have a wonderful day, everyone! May God bless us all, always!-chris a. quilpa, 26September2012
After my stroll this morning, I accompanied my daughter Tintin to do her driving so she'll get used to her new car and rules on the road, prior to going to her new job assignment in another city in the State this weekend. As I've previously mentioned in one of my blog posts, she needs a little polishing in her driving. She needs to do a little practice driving around so she'll get used to it. BTW, she has had her driving license since third year college. But she didn't have a need to drive around their Univ campus because she lived in one of the college dorms.
While on the wheel, she got a word from me to drop by at the nearest McDonald restaurant. There, we had breakfast. After breakfast, she resumed her driving with my guidance. She drove to Interstate highway, practiced changing lanes, etc. While on the road, my wife Freny called informing me she has just left school and now on the road (because she took a half-day off just so she'd accompany me to an appointment in downtown). In about 20-30 minutes, TinTin and I arrived home. Freny was by our driveway, still in the car, with engine on. She was taking a nap! She was surprised when I woke her up.
After taking a quick shower and getting dressed up, I, along with Freny, went to my appointment in downtown. Tintin decided not to join us.
What an another learning experience for me to have gone to that appointment downtown today! First, Freny and I got to see the new building in downtown for the first time. (It's good that we were in the old building early this afternoon, only to be redirected to go to the new building. We were never notified of the closure of the old building.) Secondly, I realized I wasn't the only one who had that appointment, but some showed up to take care of something, too. Third, I became more aware of something that involves slowing down, not speeding, while retired, and taking time or trying to enjoy life in the fast lane or busy world we live in.
Arriving home after the appointment, we're glad to see or have two packages from my sisters in California. One of the packages contained bags of glutinous rice flour, main ingredient for baking "bibingka" or rice cakes. For the other package, we have vegetables like string beans, squash, okra, banana-type(?) pepper, bitter melon or "ampalaya (Filipino) or "paria" (Ilokano), and eggplants, long (Japanese kind?) and small or mini, for "pinakbet." All the California produce were wrapped in local Philippine newspapers in the Bay Area. Neat!
For all of the goodies we received today, we called our sisters to inform them that we've received the packages, and, of course, thanked them for their thoughtfulness, goodness and generosity. Thank you, gracious God, and thank you, Jesus!
Well, this is all for now. Until next time around. Take care and have a wonderful day, everyone! May God bless us all, always!-chris a. quilpa, 26September2012
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
On Praying and Beyond
Happy Wednesday to us all! How are we doing so far? That's good that we're doing well. Thank you, God! And thank you, Jesus!
This morning, with my rosary beads and laptop on, I prayed the Most Holy Rosary of our Blessed Virgin Mary, our Heavenly Mother. I was in sync with the video and following the praying of the rosary, with Glorious Mysteries in mind today. Know what? I'm not proud to tell you that I was using our restroom when I prayed the rosary. Well, there's no better place than the restroom in our master's bedroom upstairs, for me, to pray the rosary. I don't know why but each time I have the urge to use the restroom, especially if I've just drunk water in the morning (mind you, I do believe in water therapy!), I think of praying the rosary already. That's kinda automatic for me. In less than 20 minutes, I'm done. Just like this morning. It was relieving and liberating. That's my feeling. This morning. (BTW, I should state that No copyright infringement intended for using the video which I embedded with my blog post today. As always, I thank YouTube and the uploader of the video used here. Thank you, Google and Blogger, and, of course, Facebook.)
Now, why I do have to pray everyday, you ask me? My dear folks and friends, I believe in the goodness and healing power of prayer, be it short prayer or long, a simple "thank you" prayer or a prayer asking God to forgive me and my sins. I confess, I pray everyday. I pray not only for myself but also for others. I pray for a good or better life, a better, safer world we live in; I pray for our departed, be it my family members or distant relatives. I pray for those victims of different local, national and world events. I pray for our sick and injured and wounded in our midst, everywhere around the world. I pray for my family, folks/relatives, friends (personal and virtual), even my enemies, if there's any (which I doubt or don't think so because I don't want to have enemies, as much as possible.). I pray for peace in my heart. I pray for world peace. I pray for the homeless and poor among us. I pray for those who are up there for their safety and well-being. i pray for our church leaders and world leaders, and the ordinary people, like me, who are trying to make a living and succeed in life.
I can't keep this thing forever in me but I have to tell you this: I have seen a number of the fruits or what I call "products" of my devotion in praying to God, to Jesus, to our Mother Mary. I'm not convincing you to believe me but I believe that my previous prayers have been answered, consciously or unknowingly. Man, I've seen and heard a number of people recovered from their injuries, surgeries, and hospitalizations. I prayed for them as soon as I heard, or found out, that they're in critical condition because of different reasons, such as traumatic brain injury, attempted assassination, random shooting or violence, etc. Some of these patients have been beyond treatment or recovery, scientifically and medically-wise. As a believer, or specifically a Catholic Christian, I believe in miracles just I believe in mysteries. Yes, miracles do happen, I know. I firmly believe that as I've said. In my prayers, I've asked the intercession of a number of our Venerables and Blesseds, and Saints. And, ultimately the intercession of our Savior Jesus Christ.
In my years of existence on Planet Earth, I've come to the realization that there are things that science can't find answers to questions or phenomena that are beyond explanations by experts or so-called authorities in such and such field of knowledge. You know that and I do, too. There are unexplained circumstances, with unexplained good news results, especially on a case-to-case basis. And, I believe and am aware that we have a physical and spiritual life. We live, we die, physically. But spiritually? That's where our belief comes in. Our faith in God is what keeps us altogether, in Heaven, in His Kingdom, when we die physically on Earth. I do believe we'll be reunited with our beloved 'loved ones and Our Almighty Heavenly Father, when it's time for us to go. But when it is not yet time, we have the opportunity to make peace with ourselves and others, to make amends, to rebuild, repair, restore, reform our stained or tainted life that have gone astray or wayward because of environmental-social influences and our abusive, excessive undoing and learned lifestyles. Yes, when it's not time for us to go where we hope to be, we're given the chance to become like the newly-born babies who are pure, innocent, adorable and loving, but helpless and hapless. That's where we rely on the love and goodness of our Lord and Jesus Christ through the people whom we come in contact with and eventually rely to take care of us when we're in dire need of help.
Well, my dear folks and friends, this is all for now. Until next time around. I thank you for your time with me. Take care and have a nice day, everyone! As always, I pray May God bless us all!-chris a. quilpa, 19September2012
This morning, with my rosary beads and laptop on, I prayed the Most Holy Rosary of our Blessed Virgin Mary, our Heavenly Mother. I was in sync with the video and following the praying of the rosary, with Glorious Mysteries in mind today. Know what? I'm not proud to tell you that I was using our restroom when I prayed the rosary. Well, there's no better place than the restroom in our master's bedroom upstairs, for me, to pray the rosary. I don't know why but each time I have the urge to use the restroom, especially if I've just drunk water in the morning (mind you, I do believe in water therapy!), I think of praying the rosary already. That's kinda automatic for me. In less than 20 minutes, I'm done. Just like this morning. It was relieving and liberating. That's my feeling. This morning. (BTW, I should state that No copyright infringement intended for using the video which I embedded with my blog post today. As always, I thank YouTube and the uploader of the video used here. Thank you, Google and Blogger, and, of course, Facebook.)
I can't keep this thing forever in me but I have to tell you this: I have seen a number of the fruits or what I call "products" of my devotion in praying to God, to Jesus, to our Mother Mary. I'm not convincing you to believe me but I believe that my previous prayers have been answered, consciously or unknowingly. Man, I've seen and heard a number of people recovered from their injuries, surgeries, and hospitalizations. I prayed for them as soon as I heard, or found out, that they're in critical condition because of different reasons, such as traumatic brain injury, attempted assassination, random shooting or violence, etc. Some of these patients have been beyond treatment or recovery, scientifically and medically-wise. As a believer, or specifically a Catholic Christian, I believe in miracles just I believe in mysteries. Yes, miracles do happen, I know. I firmly believe that as I've said. In my prayers, I've asked the intercession of a number of our Venerables and Blesseds, and Saints. And, ultimately the intercession of our Savior Jesus Christ.
In my years of existence on Planet Earth, I've come to the realization that there are things that science can't find answers to questions or phenomena that are beyond explanations by experts or so-called authorities in such and such field of knowledge. You know that and I do, too. There are unexplained circumstances, with unexplained good news results, especially on a case-to-case basis. And, I believe and am aware that we have a physical and spiritual life. We live, we die, physically. But spiritually? That's where our belief comes in. Our faith in God is what keeps us altogether, in Heaven, in His Kingdom, when we die physically on Earth. I do believe we'll be reunited with our beloved 'loved ones and Our Almighty Heavenly Father, when it's time for us to go. But when it is not yet time, we have the opportunity to make peace with ourselves and others, to make amends, to rebuild, repair, restore, reform our stained or tainted life that have gone astray or wayward because of environmental-social influences and our abusive, excessive undoing and learned lifestyles. Yes, when it's not time for us to go where we hope to be, we're given the chance to become like the newly-born babies who are pure, innocent, adorable and loving, but helpless and hapless. That's where we rely on the love and goodness of our Lord and Jesus Christ through the people whom we come in contact with and eventually rely to take care of us when we're in dire need of help.
Well, my dear folks and friends, this is all for now. Until next time around. I thank you for your time with me. Take care and have a nice day, everyone! As always, I pray May God bless us all!-chris a. quilpa, 19September2012
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