Merry Christms everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas. As for me, it came...and went. It was fun spending time with my parents, and the little time I did with my sister and her family. It was a lot of fun seeing the kids opening their gifts. Our house was clean, and once they came, all hell broke loose....gift wrap, toys, ribbons, boxes...everywhere. But it was a lot fun.

Christmas was a little ehhh this year for me. As I said earlier, its just been exhausting with work, Christmas shopping, that I didn't really have time to soak it in and enjoy it. And it sucked to have to leave Christmas night to work the next day. Well, I only showed up for a couple of hours on Tuesday, but man, there's barely anyone at work, it makes me not want to work. If there wasn't a stupid Broadway musical at work, I'd probably ask for the week off. Oh well...at least there's another three-day weekend. Thank you everyone for the presents...they were really cool.

Went shopping yesterday at Sport Chalet, and bought myself a new snowboarding jacket and a new goggle case. Gotta prep up for the big Tahoe trip. I got a good deal on this Ride jacket. Normally it was $150, then Sport Chalet had a 30% off sale, then I had another $25 off coupon, so I got it for about $80. Not too shabby. The only problem is that I wanted another color. And the only place that had it was back in Oxnard last month when we went black Friday shopping. I've been to 5 local stores (South Coast, HB, Foothill Ranch, Irvine, and Mission Viejo) and none of them have it. I'm still gonna check the Laguna store and the Brea store. If they don't have it, then blah! I'll just keep what I have.

I'm getting pretty excited about the trip. I stopped by the Spectrum after Sport Chalet, and just watched people ice skating on the outdoor rink. Reminds me of the fun time we had last year, ice skating at high elevation at freakin freezing temperatures. What's also cool is that, we wont be working a full week of work until the week after we come back from Tahoe! See...this week is a 4 day work week cuz of Christmas, next week will be cuz of New Years, the week after, we leave for Tahoe on Friday, so that's another 4 day week, then we come back on Monday, which would be another 4 day week. Awesome!

Anyhow, two more days until our after-Christmas party, then we celebrate the New Year and of course, the Rose Bowl game: USC vs Michigan. I can't wait! Happy New Year everyone! GO BLUE!!

I can't believe Christmas is just around the corner. I honestly don't really have that 'Christmasy' feel this year. I guess part of the reason is its been so busy at work, there's not time for me to enjoy it. Then after work, I'm all stressed out shopping for Christmas gifts. And I guess knowing that I have to work the day after Christmas, kinda blows. My sister and her family will be coming up, but they'll be arriving Christmas day, which leaves me just a few hours with them before driving back down to work. So, we probably can't stay up late, watch movies, enjoy some wine, or wake up the next day to do some shopping. Kinda sucks, but I'm making the most of it.

Last week was pretty fun, went to Belle and Lou's place and helped decorate their first Christmas tree in their new home. That night's episode of The Office was hilarious, probably one of the best episodes ever. The following night, Karen and I decided to check out Disneyland. We finally had time to go, but unfortunately it was just way too crowded. Despite the crowd, we had fun. Here are some random shots I took.

Just like Lou, I'm getting really excited for our Tahoe trip this year. I guess anytime I get to fly on an airplane, I get excited for some reason. The cabin I booked is really nice: 3 bedroom, nice living room, 2 car garage, 2 car driveway, front porch, back porch, and a hot tub! I can't wait to get in the hot tub. In fact, I'll probably jump in the moment we get there. Well, probably after unloading, getting anything from the groceries, etc. But I'm exciting cuz I'll be with the best friends in the world. It would be perfect if everyone can go, but its all good. I'm just praying that the weather will cooperate this year, and be perfect so we can all have a blast. And like Lou, I still remember the final run we did at night at Squaw. It was cold, clear, and no one was around. You just feel the cold air breezing against you while you carve down the mountain. It was perfect...until I freakin ate it and busted my lip. HA! Well, hopefully that wont happen this year. There's about four feet of snow at Tahoe right now, so I'm hoping between now and MLK weekend, there would be at least 8 feet of fresh powder. But we'll see.

Been trying to get some last minute health stuff taken care of before my benefits end for the year. Got my new bridge replaced this week (I had a skateboarding accident when I was young), and I'm trying to get my eyes taken care of. Apparently, I have some kind of inflammation in my left eye, which is keeping me from getting a new prescription for glasses. My doctor says it might signs of pink eye, which blows, but we'll see how things go. Nothing too serious though. Stupid eyes.

Anyhow, here are some random shots I took this week at my work and surrounding buildings. I was just killing time before Karen's shift ends. Have a good week and good luck shopping!

Tahoe cabin is finally booked!! Oh yeah!! We've officially booked our flights, rented our SUV's, and now the cabin is booked!

I can't wait! I can finally drink a nice cold beer in a hot tub in the middle of a cold, winter night!

I finally hit the stores today for some Christmas shopping and got some gifts for my nephews and other people. I still have a long way to go, but I'm finally starting. I hope to get some more done tomorrow and hope to be halfway done before the weekend hits. Late night shopping is pretty cool...avoids the crowd, traffic, and long lines at the counter.

Anyhow, weekend wrap...went to the Laker game on Friday. It was a bitch to get to cuz of all the traffic. Even the carpool on the 110 was packed. I parked at the infamous lot and paid freakin $10. It's never been that high ever, but I forgot the LA Auto Show was going on. Anyhow, got hooked up with some suite tickets. Kobe didn't play, but the Lakers still won against the Hawks. I like the whole 'lights out' thing...focuses more on the game. There were only 8 of us in the suite, and they all left early. So Karen and I just took a bunch of pictures.



Saturday, didn't do crap, and Sunday all I did was play softball. We lost again, but whatever. I hate that league. Stupid rules, stupid umpires, a bitch-ass scorekeeper, a fugly field. Hopefully, the Cerritos league in the spring will be better.

Tahoe is getting close and I'm getting excited. I wanna start packing already. More snow is going to drop this weekend also! One more month to go!

Had a good weekend. Most of it was helping celebrate Joe's birthday. Happy birthday roommie! Friday, Cat made some sushi and we had Belle, Lou, and Ryan over. Played a little bit of Scene It and drank sake. Had a lot of fun...but just woke up with a little bit of a headache! Then Saturday, got to see USC loose to UCLA I was so happy. It gave me hope for Michigan to win the #2 spot, but that ended later that night when Florida won. I'm okay with Florida facing Ohio State. At least Michigan comes to the Rose Bowl to beat the living crap out of USC. I can't wait. Then later at night, we surprised Joe at Ocean's in Laguna Beach and finished the night off with some late night carne asada fries again!

I got another gift to cross off my Christmas list. I can't wait to get paid already so I can just get my holiday shopping over with.

I'm getting pretty excited as Tahoe is around the corner and we have a lot of committed people going. We all booked our flights into Sacramento and are ready for people to book the SUV's. My co-worker, Natalie, is coming along and Karen, her, and me keep talking about Tahoe everyday! The cabin's almost booked, just trying to get everyone to decide which cabin they want. Decide people! =)

I really can't wait for Tahoe! Just needs to snow a little more.

Okay, I started Christmas shopping. Sad...its not even December and I've already started. Well better late than never. I'll probably do more this week. I got two gifts so far, and a lot more to go.

Its starting to feel a lil more like Christmas with this freakin cold ass weather. Its been awhile sleeping with pajama pants. I'm not complaining...I love it!! Snowboarding's just around the corner!

Just scored some free suite tickets to next Friday's Laker game against the Hawks. I can't wait...free food and booze!

Ahhh...back from a nice Thanksgiving break. It's been kinda crazy at work, trying to work on multiple things at the same time, and trying to finish everything during a short week. I really needed some alcohol so the weekend began with some sake shots and grub at Shin Sengumi with the roomies, Cat, Ryan, James, Anna, Lou, and Belle. The food was okay, it tasted good...just not enough to get you full. But the sake did its job. We were all feeling good.

Karen and I left Thursday morning for Oxnard to spend Thanksgiving with my parents. Karen's parents and younger brother also drove up for dinner, meeting for the first time. It was pretty exciting as after 3+years that Karen and I have been dating, they finally met. The grub was sooo good! Had turkey, prime rib, pancit palabok, honey-baked ham, stuffing...the works. And yes I shitted a monster.

Karen and I also did our Black Friday shopping, waking up at 4am and heading to Best Buy. It was madness, as I didn't pick anything up worth waking up for. I just got Entourage Season 2 on DVD. Afterwards, we made stops at Office Depot, Sport Chalet, Circuit City, and Target. Picked up a small LCD widescreen t.v., a new coffeemaker, some compression running tops, and a new knife set. Got done shopping around 9:30, then just felt tired the entire day.

Saturday morning, Karen and I left for Irvine to drop off our stuff, then met up with my parents at my sisters and had Thanksgiving all over again at her house, since she couldn't travel to Oxnard. Got to grub again, drink a couple of glasses of Ramey Chardonnay, hung out with the kids, played baseball and basketball with my oldest nephew, watch the freakin Trojans beat Notre Dame and move into 2nd place (they so don't deserve it!), then headed home and knocked out.

Sunday, Karen and I slept in. We watched Tenacious D at the movies (a lil bit of a disappointment), then met up with Lou, Belle, Ryan, and Tommy for some sushi. Very eventful weekend, yet went by so fast. Now its back to work. Boo.

Its finally getting cold, and I'm getting excited for snowboard season to start. I saw this cool Ride jacket at Sport Chalet that I'm eyeing on for the season. I also got a new Camelbak to use on the slopes. Our annual snowboard trip is almost set, and we're heading back to Tahoe City again...at the same exact cabin...hopefully =) I checked, and its still available, so I'll probably book it soon.

Oh yeah, the new Incubus CD is pretty dope! I'm very impressed with it. Each song sounds very different which is really cool. Just shows the variety of talent in the group.

Quick things I'm thankful of/for:

My family, my friends, my loving girlfriend, my job (tho it doesn't pay much, i'm just happy that I have a job), my shoes, my Michigan Wolverines, my Ipod, and my XT and lenses. The end.

Busy weekend today. First and foremost, I'd like to welcome my new nephew, Joshua Nicholas to the world...


Isn't he cute??


I woke up Saturday morning and received a phone call from my brother-in-law. Congrats to my sister and her husband on their new baby boy.

Anyhow, Friday night, Karen, Cat, Joe, Tommy, Ryan, Cicely, Jay, Lou, Belle, Romeo, Jen and Cesar came over to chill, drink, and celebrate Belle's birthday. Hehe, I guess drinking jaeger-bombs with friends in a quiet environment is a bad idea: people start laughing and Red Bull starts flying out of people's noses. Well, its not exactly what happened. But, what a funny moment! (gulp, gulp, gulp, gulp!!)

Saturday, after finding out about Joshua's arrival, we all headed to Lou and Belle's for an afternoon of football and bbq. We got to watch most of The Biggest Big Game of the year, and headed to the park for some flag football. And although Michigan lost 42-39, it was still a great day, as my team (THE BEST IN THE WORLD BLUE TEAM) won 4-3 (or 28-21, however you wanna describe it). After playing, Karen and I drove down to Mission Viejo to visit my sister and Joshua for about two hours, then headed back to Lou and Belle's. Hehe, I don't think I had late night Mexican food in such a long time! Carne Asada Nachos!!! Mmnmm!!

Here are some pictures of Belle's Birthday bash and Joshua.

Sunday, Karen and I went to our co-workers' wedding. Pretty cool, they had an Alice in Wonderland themed wedding in Orange. Pretty fun, it was just too freakin hot! But anyhow, here are some pictures of the wedding. And softball....it was fun in a losing effort. =) Good job everyone.

And now, I'm freakin beat. I've drank everyday this weekend and I'm so tired. I'm so glad this week is going to be short with Thanksgiving around the corner. This has got to be one of the greatest weekends ever. It would've been perfect is Michigan won, but I can live with it. Here's to good times!

(photo courtesy of John Biever of Si.com)

On the eve of the Biggest Big Game of the Year, Michigan loses their former head coach, the winningest coach in Michigan history, legendary Bo Schembechler. Rest in Peace Bo!

The game is finally here. My #2 Michigan Wolverines will play their archrival, the #1 Ohio State Buckeyes. This is the oldest rivalry in college football, dating back 103 years, but they haven't met like this before; both ranked #1 and #2 for the first time. Both have 10-0 records. One will play for the National Championship in January, the other will play in the Rose Bowl.



GO BLUE!!

Pretty cool weekend. Went to dinner with Karen last Friday and had a nice bottle of '04 Cakebread. Such a good chardonnay!! We got pretty tipsy and watched Wynton Marsalis jazz it up at my work.

Saturday, I watched the Michigan game and also watched USC loose! Whoo hoo! Then later that night, Ryan and I decided to celebrate our 22nd and 24th birthdays respectively with some friends at D&B's. I didn't wanna do anything originally but Ryan and I just did a lil last minute deal. Thanks to everyone that came out! Had a lot of fun. And thanks Karen for giving me one the best gifts ever....








The Jordan IV Retro in White/Military Blue/Neautral Grey!

I've stayed away from the shoe scene lately, but two of my favorite shoes were retro'd this year. I hope to get the other shoe sometime soon! Thank you very much again Karen!! I love it!

I've been fortunate receiving some special gifts on my birthday from a variety of people. I don't ask for anything, hint anything, or make some kind of wishlist. But of all the gifts I've received, and not to take away from others, I think this happens to be one of the best:




Yes it is my beloved Kings jersey!

Here's a litte story. Back in 1999, the Staples Center opened and both the Kings and Lakers moved from the Great Western Forum over to the newly built Staples Center. John Halog, Tony Dimaano, and my friend Alan planned on getting tickets to the opening night, however all tickets were sold out in minutes, so we decided to go to the second game of the season against San Jose. Anyhow, after parking at the infamous lot off of 9th and Francisco, and walking towards the Superstore, John and I noticed the new Kings jerseys that people were wearing. It was first year they wore those jerseys after changing from the old silver and black Gretzky era style. He asked me which jersey I liked the best of them, and I told him that I liked the purple one. I just liked the dark/midnight shade of purple they used, along with the silver and black tones. It has a hint of the vintage 1960's version with a touch of the silver and black era, but still representing the new era.

Anyhow, we got into the arena, sat upstairs in the 300 section which was freezing cold since the air condition vents were above us and for some reason were at full blast. John had brought his navy Nike jacket with him, but I noticed he took it off after the 2nd intermission and was freezing his butt off. I didn't really think of it at the time, just really excited that I'm actually in the Staples Center watching a Kings game.

So, a couple of weeks pass, my birthday comes up, and he presents my gift he helped arrange with some friends, along with a card. I have the card somewhere and it read, "This is why I was freezing at the Kings game." I unwrapped the gift and there was the jersey. I was freakin shocked. He apparently went to the Team LA store during the 2nd intermission, bought the jersey, and wrapped it with his jacket, and hid it the rest of the night.

Every time I look at that jersey, I always remember that day we went to the game, and the day he presented it to me. I have two more Kings jerseys with Gretzky embroidered on the back of them, and with the whole new era with the Kings, I wasn't sure who's name I'd get embroidered on the back.

Little did I know that the following January, God would take John from me and the rest of us. So later that year I made my decision who's name I wanted on the back:




Until this day, I still don't know exactly what happened with John and why he had to go. But every time I pull this out of my closet and wear it to the games, I'll always remember that day John and I went to Staples Center.

Crap, I really want to travel right now. I had lunch with my old co-worker today and he's taking a quick trip to Chicago for Halloween (quick, as in leave Monday and coming back Wednesday). Good news though, because he said Jet Blue will be flying out of Long Beach to Chicago in January. So yay, I'm going to Chicago (hopefully) and New York (praying) in 2007.

I murdered my fantasy opponent this passed week 140.38-105.3. I am now 2-5. I'm pretty confident with my lineup and hopefully I can take advantage of my opponent's bye issues and get back in the standings. My fantasy hockey team has also been picking it up lately, and I'm currently winning 9-1.

Got a flu shot today, the first since I was in elementary. I don't get sick often, but took advantage since it was free at work.

Ski Dazzle is coming up! Gonna look for a new jacket, maybe. Nothing wrong with my current jacket, but just wanna have a different 'look' this season. I haven't had a true snowboard jacket yet, so maybe I'll get one this season.

Good god, the LA Kings are so aweful! It's gonna be a long season! Possible suite tickets next week vs. the Penguins.

I hate credit card bills. It doesn't help that I want new toys and want to travel.

On a happier note, my sister seems to be due soon. Her contractions are picking up and it seems like she will deliver her 5th child soon. Good news: A new baby boy on the way. Bad news: A bigger dent in my wallet come Christmas. Haha, just kiddin.

I finally won my week in fantasy football! I made some trades and picked up some players through waivers and now my team is decent. I'm 1-5, so hopefully I can get a couple of more wins. How bad is my team? I have Randy Moss, that should say enough.

Heroes...freakin awesome show! Honestly, I can't remember Monday's this exciting, especially during this time of the year...yunno the weather is getting colder, and it makes it harder to wake up for work and start the week. Sure, there's Monday Night Football, but for me, that was pretty much it. And now Heroes is on right after, then Studio 60. I love it!

But yeah, Heroes is getting a lot more interesting and making Lost almost seem a little boring and slow. Of course its just the first season and we're discovering things like we did with the first season of Lost, but man, its pretty exciting. I think the only thing I don't like are the mediocre, unattractive actors/actresses. Unlike lost, these people aren't good looking. Well yeah the chick from Vegas is pretty hot, but other than that....blah. And that guy who can fly annoys the crap out of me for some reason. Bad acting or a confused character? I dunno what it is, he bugs me though.

Back to Monday Night Football, as Jon said on his blog, it just isn't the same. I don't like the presentation and it seems like its getting way too 'pop culture.' I don't care about guest celebrities appearing in the booth, nor do I care about the world premier of Jay-Z's video. Just stick to football please, it only happens once a week. We arleady have MTV and the E! channel, thank you.

My Michigan Wolverines are now ranked number 3 in the nation. I'm still wondering why USC is number 2 in the BCS when they keep struggling to win games. I'm getting excited though because if Michigan stays undefeated and beats Ohio State, they could play for the national championship. If they loose to Ohio State, they would come to Pasadena and play in the Rose Bowl...which in turn could lead to possible free tickets! =) Regardless, its a win-win situation for me.

Oh yeah, if you haven't checked out 30 Rock, its a pretty funny show. Tina Fey is pretty hot...which reminds me of Lou's post about women being hot in business attire rather than in a bikini. This reminded me of Tina Fey especially watching Weekend Headlines on SNL. She's pretty hot in them business outfits. Tina Fey...hot.

SNOW SNOW SNOW!!

Whoo hoo!! Its snowing all across California! Tahoe is getting a big dump of snow. And the local mountains might be starting to open as early as Halloween. Well, this is from the news reporting from Snow Valley, and even though I think it isn't the greatest place to go, it does bring exciting news that winter in general is around the corner!

Freak, my body is sore from softball. 0-1, but I think we'll be more competitive this season.

Dodgers...oh well next time.

Michigan Wolverines...#4 in the nation!

49ers...beat the now 0-5 Raiders!!

Fantasy Football...I lost by 1.03 points. Can you freakin believe that??

Hockey season has started! Whoo hoo.

Remember this name: ANZE KOPITAR



6'4" 220lbs 19-year old phenom for the Kings.

Yunno what commercial pisses me off?

That one Gap commercial with Audrey Hepbrn. I know a lot of people like it, and its not as if I don't like Audrey, she's cool and all, but it just gets me annoyed. Maybe cuz they keep playing it all the time, and maybe its cuz she's skinny, and wearing all black, something like a mime would wear. I can't really pin it, but it bugs the crap out of me.

Finally, Lost is here!! Jack is such an a$$hole.

Oh yeah, I checked out Northstar's website and its already starting to snow up there!! And they're set to open November 18th. My snowboarding co-worker and I are getting excited!!

Busy weekend...

Friday, was a little emotional and we wished Chels goodbye. No worries, cuz we'll see her, but just not as often anymore. Then, Karen and I went to my God-bro's wedding in San Clemente. My pictures turned out blurry, so I'm not sure if I'll post those. But we had a lot of fun. His wife, Becky, is one of 11 chidren. Yes, 11!! Crazy? God, I hope my sister doesn't have 11 kids. Number five is coming in November and she's having a boy! Anyhow, the reception was at her parents 2 million 5 bedroom-5 bath home. This family knows how to throw a party...they had 90 bottles of $350 30 year-old bottles of Dom Perignon. So if you do the math, that's like almost $32,000 on just champagne! Plus they had an open bar. So yeah, I had like 4 glasses of those, and a glass of red and another glass of white...both tasting soooo good...like melted butter after you sip it. I think it was the first time I've ever gotten pretty faded with my pops. Good times!

Saturday, Karen and I hung out with Belle, Lou, Ivy, John2, Jevon, and Millicent at D&B's and watched Little Miss Sunshine. Man, it was HILARIOUS!! I was literally crying of laughter. It was cool cuz I noticed they shot the end at Ventura Beach. I used to work right behind the hotel where they had the pageant so it was a trip to see places I drove through when I lived in Oxnard in the movie.

Sunday, practiced softball for a bit, then Ry and I headed to the Oakland/Angels game. And freak...we were so close!! How close??? This close...



2 rows behind the Oakland dugout! Here's more proof...



Pretty freakin crazy! And of course they were free!! Thanks to my co-worker for hooking it up! Sucks cuz I meant to bring my XT, but I forgot it at home. At least I had my SD450 with me. Ryan and I had a couple of chances to catch a couple of balls the A's threw to the fans, but we had these little Oakland fans in front of us so they ended up with two of them. Ryan actually had the ball in his hand once, but dropped in front of him. Oh well!

Fantasy football....blah, my team sucks, 0-4. I had my hockey draft tonight and pretty proud of it. Dana, if you're reading this, I drafted Andy McDonald for you!

Time for another week. Studio 60 is freakin awesome. And can't wait for Lost to finally start! And shit, hockey starts this week too! Plus the Dodgers are in the playoffs!! And we start softball on Sunday! Go Shockers!!

Here's to a great week!

Pretty awesome weekend...

Friday I checked out my co-workers musical down in San Juan Cap. It was pretty cool, despite being a low budget production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown." It was a fun night hanging out with Chels and Bobby for the evening.

Saturday, drove up to Oxnard to visit the folks and to shop at the Nike Outlet for running gear. Unfortunately all they had were a couple of compression shirts and no shorts to my taste. But I bought a couple, after they were only $15 each. Then I blew another $60 at the Kenneth Cole store and bought some pants and socks. Freak, I'm such a Kenneth Cole whore.

Karen drove us back to Long Beach that night and we all knocked out at Jay and Jovan's for Sunday's Nike Run Hit Remix. Such an awesome event! It was really fun...finished the 5 mile race in just over an hour. The bands were pretty cool. Young MC: dope, Vanilla Ice: blah (I stayed for a minute. He had a bunch of ugly,sweaty, female runners on stage, and he was pouring water on them with his water bottle, asking "Who Loves Sex?" So I just left), Coolio: dope, Digital Underground: WTF? De La Soul, AWESOME! I only saw a few minutes of De La cuz I went to look for Karen at the finish line. She never showed up so security told me to leave where I was at and I decided to look for her in hopes to cross the finish line with her. But after walking back towards the Digital Underground stage and noticing no one was running, I came back and found out she actually arrived even before I got to the finish line to look for her. Good Job Karen!! Black Sheep was also there, but unfortunately I only heard them from outside the Coliseum. Oh well, still such a great day to run!! And congrats to Karen, Lou, Belle, Cicely, Jay, Ryan, Glen, Jovan, Jennifer, and everyone else who particpated!


(Karen and me in front of Young MC's stage. Photo courtesy of Lou Lavarro)

Hopefully this will inspire me to run more often and participate in more events. Chicago is having a half marathon on October 1st which would've been cool. Hmmm...maybe that'll be a good excuse to travel...run around new cities and just exploring the cities while running an event. Hmmm...

Sweet, went to Chicks recently, and noticed they had their snowboarding gear up already for sale. Can't wait already!! And I found another co-worker I can ditch work and go snowboarding with Karen and me! Whoo hoo!

Boo, 0-3 in my Fantasy Football league.

Tuesday was full of shock...still shocked that the Dodgers came back to win with 4 straight homers on Monday.

And also, shocked to learn one of my closest friends is leaving work. I'm very happy for her because she does have a bright future ahead of her and this is just the beginning. It'll just be sad to not see her around work anymore.

Tough loss to swallow...in just a matter of days, my relationship with another person changes, and then now I'm losing a close friend. Well, we'll still hang out, but she's just one of those people that can put a smile on your face when things are down. Gonna miss her, dearly.

One more day till the season premiere of The Office!

It's been crazy for some people the last couple of days at work last week with the opening of the new concert hall. On Thursday, Governor Schwarzenegger stopped by the new hall and took part of the Ribbon Ceremony. Check out the pictures. I still see him as the Terminator and not the Governor of our state. Friday, was the night of the opening of the hall which included a symphony concert with Placido Domingo. It was a lil crazy, sorta reminded me like prom, with everyone preparing for this big black tie event, guys wearing tuxes, girls wearing gowns, caterer's preparing the food, red carpet rolled out, bartender's getting the champagne ready. But it was cool. Here are some pictures from the night.

There were a few celebs that night including Luka from ER and astronaut Buzz Aldrin (who I helped escort to the correct door to his seats, even though I didn't know it was him till later). No one really significant from Hollywood showed up, but no big deal. So all I did was just escort guests in, making sure they were heading in the right direction, then had a free meal at the Wyndham, watched the fireworks show, and partied it up that night at the Center Club with some free alcohol. I had a blast that evening.

The rest of the weekend was just enjoying football, especially my Michigan Wolverines pounding on Notre Dame. Although I was hung over and wasn't able to cheer and scream while watching the game, it was still quite entertaining. The Dodgers are now in 2nd place, but hopefully things will change. Fantasy football, I'm down by 24 points with 3 players playing in tonight's game. Let's see if I'll win.

Going back to the whole gala and that evening, we had a lot of fun, but I'm getting to realize that I'm outgrowing this place. Afterall, I've been here ever since I got out of college with three different positions and I think I'm close to moving on. In all honestly, I'm finding out that I can't work with certain people, even with those I'm okay with. I guess I've done all I could and I guess sometimes things don't really turn out the way you wished it would, whether its with my own position or with certain relationships with people at work. So, maybe a change would be good for me. Dunno if it'll happen soon, but its the first time where I've really considered it. I wanted to stick around at least until the hall opens and at least have 2 years under my belt with my current position. And now that it has happened, there's nothing really to look forward to. So we'll see what happens.

Time for more football and baseball...

GO BLUE!!!



BEAT THE IRISH!!!

First off, just wanted to say Happy Anniversary Karen!! Wow, three years and counting!! Thanks for everything you've done for me the past three plus years. They have been probably the best years of my life and I thank you for being part of it.

From year one:


all the way up to today:


You are the best thing that has happened to me. I love you!! Happy Anniversary!!

Weekend wrap up:

Friday, watched Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at my work and it was freakin hilarious!! I kept laughing throughout the show! Saturday, woke up to run 4 miles for the first time ever with Lou, Belle, and Ryan. They ran 12, so I met up with them during their last 4 miles. Man, I was tired! But it felt great because I've never ran that far before. I'm still out of shape, but hopefully that'll change soon and I'll be fit for the Nike Run Hit Remix. Watched some college football and the US Open Women's final. Later that night, Karen and I had dinner at Blue Water Grill. Yeah, not the most romantic place, but I was craving their Cioppino so I was happy! Then for some reason, I guess the run made me really tired so I knocked out at 11. But thank you Karen for the new Disney passes! Whoo hoo...more churros, ice cream, and prime rib at the Blue Bayou!

Sunday, pretty much spent the entire day with Ryan and Karen. Went shopping for running shoes and found the Asics Kayano XI's for only $70 at Finishline. I really wanted some New Balances, but after slipping my feet in the Kayano's, man it was heaven for my feet. Oh, and what's crazy....this was my first pair of non-Nike/Jordan shoes I bought in almost 10 years. Crazy huh? Man, even my hockey skates are Nike and softball cleats are Jordan brand. Shocking isn't it? Well I know Nike doesn't make the best running shoes, so I was sold on getting New Balances. But man, those Asics Kayano's feel soooooooo freakin comfortable, I had to get them. It gives my feet orgasms every time I walk.

Then the last part of the night, we met up with Chelsea at work and watched Dirty Rotten again. Busy weekend, but had a lot of fun. Thanks Ry for helping me find some shoes. I can't wait to break em in already!

Anyhow, today marks the 5 year annivesary the 9-11 attacks. Where was I at?? Well I remembered Rozanno's phone going off early in the morning and hearing him saying there were bomb explosions somewhere. I was half asleep, so I woke up later and saw the news on t.v. Pretty shocking. I still had to go to work, and it was such an erie feeling driving up the 405. The freeway was empty and because of the attacks, there were no planes landing at John Wayne. Sucks cuz everyone in the surrounding buildings and our administration were allowed to leave work, however I still working at the Box Office, and we had to remain open. Boo huh? So much for our personal safety.

Have any of you seen this before? This was televised I believe six months after the attacks. It was suppose to be a documentary about a rookie firefighter joining the New York City fire department. On the morning of 9-11, they get a call for a gas leak in the streets. And as the the 1st plane hovers below them, the cameraman tilts his camera just in time to see the first plane hit the towers. They also have coverage of them being inside the towers when they fall. It is truly an amazing documentary, yet very sad.

From another nerdy sports standpoint, two scouts of the Los Angeles Kings were on United Flight 175, the second plane from Boston that crashed into the World Trade Center. So as a Kings fan, it hits me a little.

We live in one crazy world. Okay, to make myself happy, I think I'll watch Team America or listen to the soundtrack. Here's one of my favorite songs from the movie:

Blah, I got irritated at work earlier...about sports.

So I'm having an A and B conversation with one of my co-workers, talking about this weekend's college football games. I talked about the UCLA game and how dope Ben Olson played, and mentioned I saw a little bit of the USC game, but cared less about them so I changed the channel.

And then I hear this person yell out, '55 points, they scored 55 points, that is amazing.' yunno, trying to rub it in cuz she knows how much I dislike SC and proclaims herself an SC fan. And this person freakin doesn't even watch sports. She just likes SC cuz her mom went there or something like that. She probably doesn't even know who the SC's quarterback is. So just the fact she butted in from her office and yelled out that crap, I responded, 'I could care less!' And she just shut up. We're all a bunch of SC haters in my department, so before last year's BCS Championship game between SC and Texas, she was all saying 'SC this, and SC' that, SC's gonna win, etc.' And yeah, she was dead silent the day after SC lost the lead in the final seconds to loose.

Damn, I hate it when people think they know freakin sports but can't back anything up. Especially freakin bandwagon fans! I hate those! And I know this person is such a bandwagon fan!! People just can't stay loyal to their teams and instead, cheer for teams that are just doing good or winning games/championships.

As for me, I'm a loyal Los Angeles Kings, Lakers, Dodgers, Michigan Wolverines, San Francisco 49er, and UCLA fan. When they win, I love it. When they do bad, I stick with them no matter what. Hell, I've been a Kings fan since 1991 and no Cup yet. And I know this season doesn't look promising, but I still will cheer for them on. I'm not like these other people that start cheering for teams just cuz they're winning games. It drives me nuts.

Being a Dodger fan here in Orange County, I get a lot of hate from the local Angel fans here. I accept it, its expected. They dont' understand though cuz they all think I was born and raised here and that I have to cheer for the local team. They don't get it that I was raised about 50 miles north of Los Angeles so by default, I became a Dodger fan. Now yeah, I did watch the Angles when I was young, but that was only when the Dodgers weren't on T.V. And even when I was young when they went to the AL Championship series against Boston in 1986, I still didn't cheer for them.

So whenever people see me cheering for the Dodgers or rooting against the Angles, I get a lot of crap. They can say all the want, I have plenty of reasons to back mine up.

Earlier this year when I went to the Dodgers/Angels game at Anaheim, I was wearing my Dodger jersey and looking outside the team store at a replica championship trophy displayed in a window. Then this bonehead Anaheim fan sees me, and yells out while walking by, 'Geez, when was the last time the Dodgers won a World Series?' Being smart and not wanting to start a fight I just said to myslef, '1988, but we have six World Series rings to your one.'

But I just hate it cuz even though I moved to Orange County in 1997, there were no Angel fans around. It wasn't until they won the World Series a few years back that a flood of Angel fans came out of nowhere...people wearing hats, stickers/license plate frames on their car, etc. I'm not baggin on EVERY Angel fan, I know a few loyal fans, but geez, don't tell me you're an Angel fan just cuz they won the World Series and that you were a fan since 2002. And I'll admit, I was cheering for the Angels that year, but for one good reason...they were playing the San Francisco Giants, the arch-enemy of the Dodgers.

Same thing when the Ducks went to the Stanley Cup Finals. Hockey barely exists here in Southern California, so when the Ducks went to the finals, people at work and all of Orange County started jumping on the bandwagon and saying 'they're gonna win, blah blah blah.' So once they loose in 7 games, the Pond had a hard time selling out games the following year. Shoot, the Kings had a worse record the following season and still sold out more games. Yeah granted it is Los Angeles and not Anaheim, but I think a lot of it has to do more with how loyal fans are. That's just my opinion.

Some people have the 'cheer for the local team' rule, but I don't really believe that. I believe in rivalries and that true fans stick with their teams through thick and thin.

But I'm not disrespecting Anaheim teams. There's a lot of talent on both the Angels and the Ducks and they are capable of winning many games and are Championship worthy. It's these bandwagon fans of the OC that get to me. Dont call yourself a fan if you can't even name people on their roster or just because they're winning. Hell, I can probably name more players on the Ducks roster than a lot of people who claim themselves Duck fans at work can.

Okay that's my nerdy sports moment.

Pretty busy Labor Day weekend. Friday, checked out the Pacific Syphony's dress rehearsal at the new concert hall. And although it isn't 100% complete, it looks really beautiful at night. The rehearsal itself was a little boring, in which Karen, Solomon, and I left early. Haha it was funny cuz right before the sympony was going to perform with this opera singer, Solomon's phone went off. And it happened right before the first note, ad the singer was inhaling for his first notes. It was freakin hilarious cuz everyone heard it! Afterwards, we went to Claim Jumper and enjoyed my first Ore Cart. Mmmm...ribs!

Saturday, Tommy and I met up with Belle, Lou, Ry, and Sherwin after their run for lunch at Denny's. Then afterwards, we (minus Tommy) went to check out Belle and Lou's future home. It looks really nice and is coming together pretty quickly. We also checked out some milion dollar model homes in the neighborhood, which made me a lil depressed cuz I don't know if I'll ever own a house. The models looked pretty nice, especially this one with a basement that had a game room and their own home theater room. Pretty damn nice, yet depressing!

Sunday, we all took off to San Diego for Lou's birthday weekend to watch Belle, Lou, Cat, Ryan, Tommy, and John John skydive. Although it was fucking hot, it was pretty cool watching them suit up and drop 13,000 feet to the ground. Pictures to come....

After that just spent the entire weekend chillin...visited Cat Soriano's new place, checked in our hotel at the Embassy Suites, had dinner at the Yard House and met up with Cat, Caren, and some other people, had drinks, walked around Seaport Village, ate at this crappy fish and chips joint, took some pictures, and ate some desserts at Extraordinary Desserts.

Had a lot of fun hanging out with the best people in the whole world. For some reason, I just love getting away and staying at hotels with them. Just a year ago today, we were all in Chicago having a blast. And although we just drove an hour south, it sorta brought some memories of Chicago. Dunno why, its just always good times. From doing stupid stuff like jumping on the bed (pictures to come) to just making fun of Sherwin...all that stuff just creates the best memories you can have with friends. And although not everyone was there, I'm glad I got the chance to spend the weekend with the best friends in the world. Happy Birthday again Lou, and thanks to everyone for a wonderful time!

Pretty busy weekend.

Friday, celebrated Jevon's 27th birthday at his sister's. It was Star Wars themed, so most of us got decked out in Star Wars gear. It was pretty cool, most people got creative in their own way making their costumes. I went in as George Lucas, decked out with a fake beard, flannel shirt, jeans, sunglasses, a fat gut, and a cap. The beard was a little too long, but whatever. Had a lot of fun that night. Here's the picture of Colonel Karen and me...




Happy Birthday again Jevon!

Saturday, Karen and I met up with Lou, Belle, Sherwin, and Ryan for lunch at Wahoo's after their run in Irvine. Then later on that night, my parents came down and we watched this Beatles cover band perform with the Pacific Symphony Orchestra at the Verizon...yes of course for free. It was actually pretty cool, they sounded like them and also acted like them. Now it wasn't like fans screaming at Dodger Stadium and girls throwing their underwear on stage. Instead, we were mostly with the old fogies with their granny pants and Depends. However it was a lot of fun. I found it incredible listening to Beatles music live on stage, instead on a CD for a change. Imagine, hearing "All You Need is Love" performed live with the symphony in the background, with strings and that trumpet solo in the end. It was really awesome. My parents really enjoyed the show, which made me smile. I'd turn to my dad, and he'd be singing along. None of us will ever see the actual Beatles in concert, but this would get as close as it would get. It was cool during 'Hey Jude' when the crowd of over 12,000 whipped out their cell phones and started waving them. It created a cool luminance in the darkened amphitheater. The last song they played was 'Twist and Shout,' the perfect song to end with the crowd dancing and singing along. That night was probably one of the best nights I had with my parents in a long time.

After the show, Karen watched 16 Blocks which we Netflixed. Sunday, kicked it at Son's house for a bit for an afternoon bbq, then hung out with Kristine at night.

Today, my co-worker and I got free LA Times suite tickets to tonight's Dodger game against the Reds, but we both decided not to go. He went to all 3 games of this weekend's Angel/Yankee series and was just tired from all the baseball. So we decided not to go, which was fine since I got to play softball. It might be the last time with my co-workers, since people are going back to school. As a result, the team I played on won, and I finally tasted victory for the first time in softball! Go me!

Crap, just found out today Canon released a couple of new products.

First, is the new Digital Rebel XTi (the 400D).




From Canon's website, this new camera is an upgrade to the Digital Rebel XT (350D) which boasts a new 10 megapixel CMOS center, a 2.5 in LCD screen, a nine area autofocusing system, and a new dust reduction system.

Now I'm currently happy with my XT and its specs, but man, it sucks to invest in something, then a couple of months later a, new upgrade comes out. Damn, technology! Oh well, I still love my camera.

Another thing that came out is the new 70-200mm f/4L IS (Image Stabalizer) lens.



This is gonna make it difficult to purchase my future telephoto lens. According to dpreview.com, this will cost about $1250 when it is released in November. Now, I had my eyes set on the the regular 70-200 f/4L non-IS lens for under $600, but now this bad boy had to come out. What sucks even more is deciding between this or the f/2.8 non-IS version which is just about the same price as well. Hmm...IS vs faster lens. What to do?? I can solve my problems and just get the 70-200mm f/2.8 IS but that sucker costs about $1600.

Damn it! I decided to get f/4L over the 70-300mm IS since the L series is known for its quality, but man now they HAD to come out with a new IS version of the f/4 right before making a purchase. Great...now I have to make ANOTHER decision!

Pretty busy weekend. Friday night, got to hang out with Cicely and Jay. Had dinner and went to the Earth, Wind, & Fire concert at The Verizon. As usual, it was for free. It was a lot of fun, and suprisingly packed. The entire venue was a party, except our area. We had the boring, 'I don't wanna stand up, cuz I'm too cool section.' But still, we had a lot of fun. Thanks for the fun night, guys! And thanks for dinner Jay, even though I was suppose to pay! ('listen to what I say. Why don't just go lay down by the bay, make things out of clay, what do you say?')

Saturday, checked out Wicked at my work again. Karen wanted to see Elphaba's understudy and she sang great. Went to a birthday party afterwards then just chilled for the rest of the night.

Sunday, drove up to visit my parents and to celebrate my mom's birthday. Didn't do much, just ate and did laundry. But as usual, its always fun to see the parents.

Anyhow, I came across someone's blog and found out how much more of an idiot he/she is. Have you seen those spam comments on people's blogs or chat box?? The one's that say,

'Your are Excellent. And so is your site! Keep up the good work. Bookmarked.' - Anonymous.

Haha, this person actually responded to them saying thanks multiple times! Haha, it cracks me up.

'wow. seriously? thanks. i will be sounding repetitious with my comments but is this the same person or another? thank you again!'

Here's another one...

Anonymous said: 'Your site is on top of my favourites - Great work I like it.'

Response: 'thank you! much appreciated keep on reading . . . ! '

Yeah I know, its mean, and yes I'm going to hell. But it's not my fault that this person is such a fuckin 'tard. =)

I got my new toys (flash and new bat) last week. Flash is pretty cool, but learning how to get used to it. Got to make use of my bat today and it hits pretty clean. Still gotta get used to it also, but I get a lil more power than with other bats.

And yeah, my loosing streak continues. I have yet to win a softball game...ever. And I'm talking about 3-4 years ago when I still working at the box office...Never won. Last season in league play.. never won (but damn, I've never had more fun losing). And after three games playing with co-workers this month, never won. Frustrating?? Not really. Of course winning is always nice, but playing in general is fun.

Eventful weekend...played broomball on Friday and got to use my hockey stick. Scored two goals in a losing effort 11-7. It was a lot of fun though. Kristine's goal was probably the best goal scored that evening...can't explain it really, but man, it was just awesome! Good job Kristine!

Watched V for Vendetta on Saturday and it was ehhhhh.

Sunday, went to the LB house and kicked it with a bunch of dudes with 'J' as their first name and Cicely. Then had a nice evening with Cat, Joe, Belle, Lou, and Karen. Had dinner at Maggiano's and watched Wicked at my work. I've seen it in Chicago, and even though it didn't have as good of a cast, it was still good. Sitting closer in Orchestra than upstairs helped a lot. And plus I was more wide awake than in Chicago. It was a great night. Just too bad it was Sunday and had to face work today.

Anyhow, in Wicked, there's a lil love thing going on with the sexy bo-hunk Fiyero and Elphaba, who is the witch with green skin. With that, I couldn't help but being reminded of a lil portion of Eddie Murphy's classic stand-up, Delerious. He goes on and asks...

"Anybody got cable?

I've been watching a lot of cable lately cuz I've been so mad...the only good show on TV now is Star Trek. That's some good shit!

I like Captain Kirk and shit. Captain Kirk would fuck anybody. I seen them beam him down on the planet...ever seen that episode when he fucked this green bitch?

You gotta be a horny mother fucker to fuck a green bitch.

I mean, I aint no racist, but if the bitch is green, there's something wrong with the pussy."

Okay, I'm gonna get busted now from Karen. Bye!

Wow, its already August. This year is definitely going by too fast. It only felt like yesterday the entire gang was counting the days for our massive group trip to Chicago during Labor Day weekend last year. I think it was about a year ago today I bought new luggage just for the trip along purchasing tickets for Wicked. This year...for myself, nothing really to look forward to. I guess the only significant thing is the opening of the new concert hall across the street from work, (which for some reason I feel wont be ready, even though it has to). And its not as if I have something to do with it or better yet is going to affect me in anyway. It's not as if we're going to get a huge paycheck once it opens. Just another building to stare at...and practice taking pictures of too. I went on another tour of it with our reps from Cox Media. It really looks impressive, but I just have this weird feeling it wont be done. Here's a sneak peak of what it looks inside.




Seats are installed, but still got a lot of work to do. There's still scaffolding throughout the building and the landscaping outside is no where near complete. Although, they do have that $7 million rusted wart growing out of the ground, as depicted in Karen's blog.

Didn't do much this weekend, although had our first double date with Cat and Joe. We watched Talladega Nights, and man it was so hilarious. I can't spoil it for those who haven't seen it, but there so many lines in that movie that just make you crack up. I'd definitely watch it again instantly!

After that...nothing huge. Went to Hawthorne with Karen and went out to dinner that night. Watched The Girls Next Door for the first time...the reality show about Hugh Hefner's girlfriends at the Playboy Mansion. It's actually quite entertaining. Other than that...blah...

Sorta went crazy shopping on Friday also...ordered my flash and diffuser for my camera, and also spent over $100 on a brand new softball bat. I dunno why, but I just had this high to spend spend spend. I guess since we got that bonus check, I felt rich, even though it wasn't much. I easily spent almost $400 in a matter of minutes, which is huge for me since I'm not much of a big shopper. I don't even know why I freakin bought a bat. Maybe cuz it was worth over $250 and got a good deal of it. I'm not much of a power hitter, but maybe it'll help me get some power. I used a similar Easton Synergy bat once during league play last year and hammered the ball pretty deep. I'm hoping this Easton Stealth model will do the trick, since its almost the same thing.

Speaking of softball/baseball, them Dodgers are looking pretty freakin awesome...10 straight wins. Them trades are really paying off. Oh yeah, so last week I called my account exec for tickets for this weekends Giants/Dodger series. She emailed me back today saying that she got free tickets for Sunday's game and she was going to put it in the mail immediately. I thought to myself...what the heck is going on this weekend? I know I have something planned. Then after 10 minutes I finally remembered...

Wicked

Crap, of all days to get free tickets to the Giants/Dodgers series, had to be on the same day I couldn't go. Sucks because the original time was set at 1:00pm but they moved it to 5:00pm since it will be broadcasted nationally on TV. If it wasn't the case, I'd be able to watch the game then get back in time for dinner with the gang and the show. And what sucks is that Greg Maddux is scheduled to start. Crap! Oh well, hopefully something will turn up Saturday. At least I scored free LA Times suite tickets later this month against the Reds. I love the word FREE when it comes to tickets!

Taco Tuesday tomorrow!! Whoo hoo!! $5 24oz Corona's!!

Freakin crap!

Anxious to see Greg Maddux's debut as a Dodger, I turned on the T.V. at home to find out there was a rain delay at the start of the game, which turned out to be no rain.

So, I'm watching the entire game on T.V. and the guy is throwing a no-hitter....

Until the bottom of the 7th inning, where actual rain forces a delay in the game for about 45 minutes or so.

So now, they're about to re-start the game but they're taking Maddux out.

Dude! If this game started on time without a rain delay in the beginning, who knows...the game could've been over and Maddux would've probably pitched a no-hitter!

Boo on rain-delays! Boo on the decision to take Maddux out for Joe Biemel!

Oh well, go Dodgers!

Crap, I haven't blogged in awhile. Maybe cuz its been so hot lately that all I do when I come home is the usual: check my email, browse espn.com, flickr.com, and then just watch t.v. or crash for a bit. I dunno...I don't have anything really interesting to blog about so you can just go to your next desired page to look at.

And for those who've continued to read, thanks for staying.

Nothing new on my quest for a vacation. Still undecided. I really really want to go to New York, but still debating. Its pretty expensive hotel wise, so that's what's setting me back. We'll see what happens.

Also, haven't done really anything exciting the past few weeks. Although I did watch the Dodgers lose to the Cardinals last weekend. Hopefully, with their trades they made today they can push for the division title. Can't ask for anything more for free Dodger dogs and free tickets. Thanks again Jay (and Alpine) for hookin it up!

Started playing softball which is the first time I've done anything athletic, besides snowboarding if that really counts. Ankle feels fine, yet I still use my brace as a precaution. I'm still scared to run fast, but I guess I should just start running more often. Started playing with co-workers and even invited Ryan to play tonight. Regardless of having the longest losing streak ever, I'm having a blast playing, and that's what counts. I was really close to see Karen play in any type of sport. She did pinch run though, so I guess that counts. Can't wait for two more weeks to play again. Stupid Box Office staff has a staff meeting next Monday. Boo.

Let me rephrase...Stupid staff meeting (not stupid Box Office staff...well some of them are stupid. Oh, what? =P)

Week started out pretty cool also, receiving a bonus check through work. There were rumors that it wasn't gonna happen, then someone leaked and said that it was a possibility. I still kept it in my mind that it wasn't gonna happen, but it feels pretty cool to get a nice check without expecting it.

Now what to buy.....a new flash? a new tele photo lens? or should I save it for vacation wherever I go? put it in savings?? hmmm...

Ahhh fuck it...I'm going shopping. This is a bonus check, I guess I should splurge on myself. We get paid three times in September so I can always use that extra cash for my vacation.

Happy Birthday Tommy! Sucks you had to be at USC this weekend. But at least we got to hang out at Cat's for the night. Got to eat some great pasta, watch Entourage, and eat some Godiva Cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory. Mmmmm...

Have a great week!

I'm a little bummed right now, finding out that Barbaro's chances for survival now our pretty slim. It was about two months ago we all saw the 3 year old colt break his leg in the Preakness. He looked good and seemed he was gonna pull through, but they're saying on ESPN that his chances of survival are poor. Feel pretty sad about the colt, but hopefully by some miracle, he'll survive.

Anyhow, I've been thinking about traveling lately. And I've sorta narrowed my options...

1) Chicago at the end of October
B) New York in December
III) Hawaii in December

I wouldn't mind visiting Chicago again, there was a lot we could've done while we were there, instead of eating overpriced sushi the last night we were there. Places like the Shedd Aquarium, Navy Pier, I'd still want to check out. Hmm...possibly a Blackhawk game or a preseason Bulls game at the United Center might be an option. Then i'd get to take my picture with the Michael Jordan statue. The food there is freakin awesome, and the people are friendly and helpful (even this bum helped us get back on Michigan Ave). I could probably also hang out with Karen's relatives for a bit also. And after looking at a $200 roundtrip plane ticket during the last weekend of October, I'm very tempted.

New York...I've always wanted to visit that place in the winter when its all decked out in Christmas decorations. And plus, I really wanna lace up the skates at the Rockefeller Center in front of the huge Christmas tree. Hmmm...maybe I can check out a Ranger game there too...or attend an 18,000 seat comedy club (aka a Knicks game at MSG). I could do all touristy stuff, maybe watch a show or something (haha possibly Hairspray or Avenue Q again! Oh, or maybe The Wedding Singer or Spamalot!). But then again...NY is freakin expensive.

Hawaii...I haven't been there since I was in the 4th grade, but I remembered how much I loved it there. It'd be a little more different than Chi-town or NY as its a lil more relaxed. My best friend lives out there and I promised to visit him. Plus, it'd be offseason there, so not as much tourists. However, we all know how pricey Hawaii can get so it's still a question mark.

Don't get me wrong, there a bunch of places I'd want to visit...Canadia, Seattle, Philly, D.C, Boston...but these three places have been on the top of my list lately.

Decisions, decisions, decisions. Anyone have any suggestions? Right now I'm leaning towards Chicago cuz its cheaper and its closer to date. I'm just so anxious to travel now because I probably wont be able to travel till next spring or summer (stupid Broadway shows and new concert hall!)

Help meeee!!!

I'm in need of a vacation. A lot of my friends have been on trips lately, and its making me jealous. Kinda sucks though, because I'm not sure if I can take any week long trips this year because of the new hall opening in the fall. And it seems like starting in September, there will be big shows every week, so its not as if I can take off anywhere. Well, I might be able to in November or December, and I'm undecided on where to go. I'm still praying that we can go to New York, but also looking into maybe Hawaii if possible. And this time...I want to spend multiple nights, not just during a 3 day weekend or anything like that. Hopefully a week. But we'll see...I'm in need of one, and after working 12 of the last 14 days, I know Karen would like one also.

Since Karen and I had to work Saturday, the weekend was pretty short. We had our Broadway Seat Sale open house that morning which went okay. Afterwards, we headed to Long Beach for Jovan's birthday with another night of playing Guitar Hero. Still trying to master some of the songs in expert level. Can't wait for the 2nd version to come out in November!

I hope this week goes by pretty fast.

Pictures from the weekend:
Broadway Seat Sale
Guitar Hero at Jovan's

Happy belated 4th everyone!!

Didn't get to enjoy the weekend like some people did. I had to work on Monday, so it was more like a weekend and a day off sorta-type-a deal. However, still had a nice weekend. Went to a birthday party in Carson on Saturday and got to finally see Nacho Libre for free and enjoy some free popcorn and drinks (thanks Klarisse!) Sunday, got free suite tickets to the Dodgers/Angels game at the Los Angeles Angel Stadium of Anaheim of Los Angeles, California with some friends. I had a set of four in the club level and another pair in the suite. And thanks to my Account Exec from Cox Media, I was able to get my friends in the suite with Ryan and me. Free food, free drinks, free alcohol, away from the heat....would've been perfect if the Dodgers won. Here are some pictures from the game and suite.

Monday went to work which was pretty dead. Then enjoyed the holiday at Jay's for a day of chillin, about 9 hours of Guitar Hero, some swimming, poker, and some bbq. This year's festivities didn't include any fireworks, although we can hear plenty around the neighborhood as well as some flashes from the distance. Other than that, not much fireworks. It was cool cuz back in my old apartment, they used to launch fireworks the next block over. So basically, just walk out the front door, and you have the show right in front of you. Oh well no fireworks this year. Here's some pictures from the day.

Not looking forward the rest of the week as we get ready for our annual Broadway Open House Seat Sale. Its pretty much an opportunity for my psycho's to come inside the theater and pick out available seats for the Broadway series. Shouldn't be too bad, but just sucks working on a Saturday. Boo on that!

Back from Vegas! It was cool, actually pretty chill. It was actually freakin hot, around 111 degrees or so (On the way home, Baker was at 124!!). So for the most part, Karen and I stayed indoors in our hotel. Went to the pool twice which felt good and went outlet shopping in which no one was there because they didn't wanna walk around outside. We had some coupons and deals, so we took advantage of the 2-for-1 offer and went up the Eiffel Tower at Paris to snap some pictures. We got there a lil late so the Bellagio fountain show were done for the day. Check out the pics. Also grubbed at the Seafood Buffet at our hotel twice. I can't believe I stuffed myself with so much lobster and crab legs. It's not as if I eat lobster often, so it was all worth it. I wanted to walk around the strip, but it was still too hot at night. Gambled a lil, but lost. Oh well. Karen won on some slots so that was good for her. But for the most part it was just a relaxing trip...no rush into getting up early or trying to dress up and get into clubs and wait all night.

It's pretty cool now that Harrah's is partners with Bally's, Paris, Ceasar's, and of course Rio. They have a complimentary shuttle now that runs to each hotel, so its pretty convenient. And plus they give you deals and coupons within these hotels, so that was pretty helpful cutting down costs. Only regret was probably not being able to take more pictures...maybe next time when the weather is a lil cooler.

I also got to visit my uncle which I haven't seen in years. He's home alone while the rest of his family are in the Philippines. His house is pretty nice...a 4 bedroom house at the base of the mountain (the one you see on the east side of Las Vegas) which back in the late 90's he bought brand new for $119,000. Can you believe that price!!?? Irvine charges half a mil for a 3 bedroom attached condo. Kinda makes me sad, cuz the way California prices are going, I wont be able to buy my own house. Shit, I hope I'm not stuck with IAC for the rest of my life! That would suck.

Okay...time to eat.

Had a chill weekend. Went shopping really late (about 10:15pm) on Saturday at Robinsons-May at Mission Viejo. I needed some new dress shirts and had to take advantage of the 15-hour Father's Day Sale for myself. Also discovered Guitar Hero (thanks Kristine) and played that for a bit that night. It's pretty addicting. Sunday, went to Oxnard to see my dad for Father's Day and just hung out at home. I also waited for my sister and her family to drive up, which wasn't until 10pm. So I chilled with them for an hour before driving back to Irvine. I wished they came earlier that way I could hang out with my neices and nephews more. Its pretty rare that we all get together in Oxnard. My sister, her husband, and their 4 (soon to be 5) kids, its pretty hard to make the drive up from San Clemente. Lucky, they get to stay there for a week while I slave away at work.

Good gawd its been so busy and crazy this week at work. Wicked finally went on sale on Monday and it was pretty crazy. Check out this line (from front to back)









Look at these jackheads. This was taken about 11:00 that morning. If you can notice the line wraps all the way around and back. That guy in the pink is the last one in line at that moment. And that line would not end...from what I heard it was a 6 hour wait for those that stayed in the line. The box office was suppose to close at 6, but had to stay open until 9:30pm. Can't forget about the 2300 or so calls over the phone, which jammed our phonelines (we couldn't make outbound calls), plus the idiots that jammed our website to purchase tickets. A lot of pissed off people...finding out nothing close was available and waiting all day. I've seen the show in Chicago...its good, but it aint the best thing in the world. I've heard people as far as Utah were trying to get tickets.

Now, I don't work at the box office anymore which is great...I don't have to deal with these people. But it just brings back memories of doing on-sales that were crazy, but not as crazy as Wicked, and all the mayhem involved (Mamma Mia, Rent, Phantom, Les Miz, Mariah Carey, Clay Aiken, Jethro Tull, etc.). I felt sorry for those that had to deal with these patrons and their anger for not getting tickets. One patron actually got as far as speaking with one of the Vice Presidents about their anger of having to wait so long and not being able to buy tickets.

I think this week kinda just made my week crazy and kinda made me really irate with just people in general. I've heard people were literally crying because they couldn't get tickets. Bitches, grow up...shit, its just a damn musical. But yeah, it made me want to kill people. This week for me is officially named I Hate People Week. But yeah, a lot of shit going on, not just with Wicked, but other stuff both work related and not.

Let's see what else makes it I Hate People Week...The damn Miami Heat winning the NBA finals (I still can't believe it), the Dodger pitching staff fuckin up, found out the musical I hate the most is coming back to my work, and other stuff.

Highlights for this week....going to Vegas to get away from all the bullshit from this week, my new passion for Guitar Hero. and scored some free tickets to the Dodgers/Angels game next week.

Calgone, take me away!

Watched Les Miz for the final time and it was pretty cool. Man, I've seen it four times and good gawd, Cosette's voice is freakin awful. Everytime I've seen the show, her character has the worse voice. This time it was freakin whiney and annoying. Damn, they should've killed her off and kept Eponine cuz her voice was the best. Speaking of Eponine, I had to keep myself from cracking up after hearing Jovan's story in the car when Eponine was singing "On My Own." And when she started singing higher and louder, I started to sweat cuz it was so hard not to bust out laughing. But dude, the show was long...I guess watching a musical in the middle of the week can be so tiring. But we had pretty dope seats and nothing beats watching it with good friends. Thanks Cicely for getting the tickets and Jay for driving.

Got my Tamaron lens and I'm loving it. Hmmmm...what's next? A new flash?? A new telephoto lens??

Damn, its been warming up lately. It was only a month ago since we went snowboarding. Gotta love this picture...





Thanks Keno for making this dope video of us at Mammoth!!











Check his pictures as well as Cicely's pictures from that weekend.

I'm not gonna post any of my pictures from the Fundoo party since a lot of them were blurry...but here's a picture of us playing Super Bomberman. Gotta love everyone's outfits and expressions as Belle and Cicely battle it out against Jovan and Sherwin.


As evident through Belle's expression, Jovan and Sherwin won!! Good times!

Awesome...

Just watched the beginning of game 3 of the Stanley Cup Finals between Carolina and Edmonton. The game is in Edmonton and during the national anthems, the crowd was actually singing the United States national anthem. What was even really cool was halfway through the Canadian national anthem, the guy who sang the anthem stopped and just let the crowd sing the rest of it. Pretty awesome, and much respect to the Edmonton fans. I'm always ehhh when it comes to hockey and Canada, but that was really cool of them to even sing the American national anthem and then go all out with their own. I remembered one time it was either in Toronto or Vancouver where they booed the American national anthem once. That kinda ticked me off cuz that was disrespectful.

Up to now, I'm not sure who to cheer for. I sorta want Edmonton to win just because they're the first 8th seed to ever make the Finals. But they were sorta the rivals of the Kings during the whole Gretzky era. And I also wouldn't mind seeing Carolina win just because its one of them cities in the US that doesn't really favor hockey as much as Northern cities and Canadian cities do. If they win, hopefully it'll just spread a lil more awareness of the sport in the States.

Dodgers are finally in 1st place by themselves (but for how long??)! US lost to the Czechs in World Cup play (boo!)

Didn't do much this weekend except go to the Fundue party at Cicely and Belle's, witnessed a freakin suv smash itself into the wall on the 5 freeway on the way home, and clean our room and apartment. Oh yeah, and finished season 2 of Entourage...again.

The scene: A Tavola Ferranelli Restaurant, Dana Point, CA

6:45pm: Enjoying my first Jack and Coke
7:00pm: Enjoying my second Jack and Coke
7:30pm: Eating Caesar Salad
8:00pm: Devouring my medium rare Filet Mignon
9:30pm: Eating a 3 sampler dessert plate of Tiramisu, Cheesecake, and something else.
11:00pm: leave for Irvine

12:30am: In bed trying to sleep...starting to feel really nauseous
3:00am: Ran to the bathroom and threw up everything I ate for dinner.
3:05am: More yacking.
5:30am: More yacking.
8:00am: Emailed I wasn't coming in to work because of Food Poisoning.

THIS FREAKIN BLOWS!! Of all days, I get a free Filet Mignon, the best ever and I yack it all up! I think it was my leftovers from lunch. Oh man, I hope this doesn't develop to more sickness! Time to lay down again. Entourage Season 2 would've really helped right now.

This was the first weekend in awhile that I had nothing really planned, which was actually good. Getting short on fundage and also been tired from all the traveling...San Diego, Mammoth, Vegas, etc. So it was good to just relax a lil.

Saturday, Karen got her new ride and it looks oh so beautiful. Just a lil worried cuz its her first big investment so I hope she'll be okay with money. I wont spoil the story so just check her blog out once she posts. Dude...it was scorching that day! We were mostly indoors at the Rancho Santa Margarita dealership so it was nice to take advantage of the AC, but outside was ehhh! But congrats on your new purchase Karen!

Sunday, Karen and I took a spontaneous trip to the Pantages to see Hairspray. Honestly, I think its become one of my favorite musicals...the music is cool, dancing is pretty nice, and the story is non-stop entertaining. It sucks, it doesn't have the credentials like Phantom or Les Miz, but I highly recommend it. This was my second time watching it and I think it was the most fun. It had a lot of energy and I guess being surrounded by an L.A. crowd, just made it so much fun. Watching it in Orange County, you don't get the loud cheers, the loud laughs, etc, during the show or after a song. This time around, they were into it, so it made the show that much better. And plus, they were making a lot of L.A. references, like this one dude got chicken and waffles from Roscoe's, even though the setting is in the 60's in Baltimore. It's playing at the Luxor in Vegas, so maybe I'll check it out sometime. Highly recommend.

Anyhow, I'm stuffed and have food coma. Just got back from God-brother's engagment dinner in Dana Point (who is also my sister's husbands younger brother). It's crazy cuz the bride is the 5th child or 11 children! Freakin crazy, and they were all so outgoing and friendly. The menu...oh man...a choice of filet mignon with ravioli and lobster sauce, sea bass, or filet mignon. I chose the filet...I mean heck it was free anyway (along with the cocktails before dinner)! But I had a lot of fun, got to meet my new people, and possibly some future relatives. Dude! I'm gonna have white relatives!! Not that its bad or anything, but dude, I'd never imagine!! At least we wont be that blood related....imagine shopping for 11 kids for Christmas?? oh man, that's too much for me. My sister has 4, working on 5, and that's already too much!! Sheesh, props to white people with big families!

Big day tomorrow...Entourage Season 2 on DVD!

So yesterday at work, I took these pictures of the new Renee & Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall during our tour, and now our Public Relations Director wants to use them for our Revue magazine, which is our quarterly calendar magazine we mail out to our patrons. Yeah, I know they're not the greatest, and I don't know how much truth is behind this, but man, that would be totally cool! He told me I'd get recognition/credit for the photo(s). How freakin awesome that would be! I just hope he's referring to the exterior photos, cuz a lot of the indoor photo's are blurry.

Thanks Jon for letting me borrow the lens! I'm for sure gonna buy one soon!

Wow!! What a weekend!!

It couldn't have started off better after receiving a phone call Saturday morning on the way to Vegas. At first, I looked at my caller ID and split second thoughts ran through my head, which included...

"Why are you calling me this early in the morning?"
"Aren't you suppose to be sleeping somewhere in San Diego next to your girlfriend. You must be gay, dude."
"Are you lost? Because you have 784640340769 navigation systems in your car."
"Are you calling me for the Dodger score or any sports score?"

Anyhow, after hearing the news, I couldn't be more happier!!! Congrats to both of you. You guys are the perfect match for each other. And I totally lost my bet with Karen cuz I thought this other couple was going to get engaged first, no offense or anything. Boy, I was wrong, and Karen was right. Luckily money wasn't involved.

But seriously...the news had already made the weekend awesome! And we weren't even in Vegas yet! Congrats again. I love both of you.

Anyhow, Vegas was nice and chill. Started drinking early once we got to Stateline. Drinks were so cheap there too! A lot of people were at Vegas, which meant tables were full, so I didn't gamble. Plus I only brought $40 on me cuz my old ass forgot to go to the bank the night before. Oh well, kept me from gambling and possibly losing more money. But I figured I'm going back in a month, I can gamble then. Checked out Avenue Q and man was it hilarious!! I was laughing so hard at times it hurt!!

We also, grubbed at the Aladdin for dinner and at Gold Coast for Sunday brunch (dude, its so good at Gold Coast!! Not bad for a $13 brunch!). Checked out the Shark Reef again for Mr. XT, but freakin pictures came out too blurry. Also did some shopping at the outlets, which I didn't buy anything. Only stayed for a night, but had a lot of fun and we were able to avoid the Monday traffic. It was possibly the least expensive trip ever to Vegas, yet we had a blast. Can't wait for next month again!

Monday, slept in, went to a couple of car dealerships with Karen and had a bbq here. Thanks Joe and Cat for bbqing!

Okay, time to start shopping for a new lens. Oh yeah!!

I KNOW HER!! I KNOW HER!!!

Sorry Belle, gotta spread the love!!

BELLE IS FAMOUS ARTICLE

Pictures from Sea World & San Diego

Ahhh....what a dope week! Checked out Stomp at the Pantages this past Wednesday with some good friends. As before, such an awesome show. Different cast, but just as talented, and maybe even better. Too bad it wasn't as packed as expected. That show is freakin awesome.

This past weekend was spent at Mammoth for one last snowboarding trip of the season (or is it??....dun dun dun!!) Snow was nice, a lil icy at first but pretty smooth during the afternoon. This was probably one of the chillest and maybe the best trip ever at Mammoth. I dunno why, maybe it was a combination going with a smaller crowd, not a lot of people at the slopes (literally just walk on the lifts), the weather, the food, our location, etc. Ankle was hurting a bit at first, but that was just cuz of my brace I wore. I switched braces during lunch. But after that, we went on a tear on runs, probably did at least 10 runs easily. Later that night, had a nice meal of spaghetti (thanks to Jay and the others that helped out), and watched Remember the Titans on T.V. ("What is pain??? French Bread!!!")

Had an opportunity to board again on Sunday, but stupid rain/snow/wind had to roll in overnight. Oh well, had a blast regardless. No pictures, but hopefully Keno and Cicely will post some soon.

Other highlights of the week...Dodgers swept the Angels (destroying them 31-7 total runs scored), the Oilers are beating the Ducks 2-0, eating a pastrami sandwich and wet fries from The Hat, discovering Super Bomberman and laughing until it hurts after Mammoth for two hours, and the Kings hiring Marc Crawford as their coach.

Lowlights of the week: work, getting sick, watching Barbaro break three bones in his legs (I don't watch horseracing, but love animals. Seeing that horse in pain during the Preakness really made me sad), and finding out a personal unwanted guest coming to my apartment while I was at Mammoth. Oh well what can you do.

Another weekend of fun this week...hitting up Vego and watching Avenue Q. Time to grub at the Aladdin buffet, laugh ourselves till we hurt, then consuming mass amounts of alcohol. Oh yeah!

I didn't realize until this weekend how much fun San Diego can be. Usually, I'm there just to visit family, but sight seeing-wise its freakin awesome. Friday, Karen and I celebrated her birthday first at Sea World. Although the weather wasn't great, mostly gloomy all day, it was really cool. We didn't hit up any of the rides cuz we were there mostly to see the animals. Damn, sea lions are fuckin mean ass animals. You think they're all cute, especially watching the sea lion show, but then you walk across the way where you can feed those bastards, and they can be the meanest sons a bitches ever. There was one that got all jealous and started yelling at one cuz he was being fed. Like little kids or something fighting over candy. Everything else was cool...Shamu, Dolphis, Manatees, Sharks. It was funny cuz we went to the dolphin exhibit, where Karen, me, and this family of 3 got fuckin drenched by a dolphin that swam by. Karen and I didn't get it that bad, but dude, the little kid, probably like 7 years old, got it real bad! He started crying real loud and said, "I got some in my mouth!!" Haha!! It was hilarious!!

Afterwards, we checked in at our hotel at the Westin which is such a dope place because its within walking distance to everything. Later that night, we went to eat at Ra Sushi, drank, then headed back to the hotel. Saturday was a beautiful sunny day, so we visited Balboa Park and went into a couple of museums, drove down to Coronado Island where we walked along the beach, went window shopping, and also had a nice romantic dinner outside along the beach and watched the sun set and the downtown lights turn on. It was awesome! Later that night, I remembered I forgot my dress shoes in irvine, so we just walked around, then ended up at Ra again and drank and ate more food. Yummy! Sunday, walked around next door at Horton Plaza, left for San Clemente to visit her family, then had dinner with Karen's family for Mother's day.

Pretty busy weekend, but I had a blast celebrating Karen's birthday. Happy Birthday again!

Oh yeah, I got to play around with my new dSLR. I'll post some pictures later. I took almost 500 shots so I have to edit some of them out before I post em up.

I had my final physical therapy session today and it went well. There's not much the therapist can do anymore so its all on me. Overall, the ankle feels good, I've been doing some light runs. It doesn't feel the same still, and I dunno if it will ever be. But I'm just glad I can do simple things like walking.

Hmmmm....another free concert that might be on the horizon....check it out.

I might have to dig out my Cross Colors shirt and my Air Jordan IV's for this one!

pics of San Diego to be posted later....

Happy Birthday Karen!!!!

Just got back from the Boyz II Men concert last night, and it was pretty tight! Took me back to my high school/early college years. It kinda sucked that we had to stand the entire time, but hey, it was free! They actually still sound really well as a trio now. As stated earlier, Mike McCary left the group in 2003 because of scoliosis. I remember back in 1998 when I saw them at the Forum, Mike had to just sit on a stool on stage. Pretty sad. But they still can harmonize really well without Mike. They played most of the old school stuff along with some new stuff from their upcoming album that will be out this fall. One of my favorite songs they sang was "Please Don't Go" which is probably my favorite song from the Cooleyhighharmoney album. For some reason, it just sounds dope live. Some of the songs they sang were cut down in length, so in a way that kind of sucked. But I'm glad I got to see them again and knowing that they can put on a good show in front of a sold out House of Blues.

It kinda sucks that they tailed off a bit. I kinda blame the whole pop movement during the late 90's. Yunno, like Brittany, Christina, and those gay-ass boy bands like 'Nsync and Backstreet. (Sorry fans....ahem....Ryan....ahem). j/k!! They took over the airwaves and fans and I guess r&b itself has tanked the past few years. Well, in my opinion. I'm sure they're still good r&b out there, like John Legend and Alicia Keyes, but not much.

Come to think of it, I don't listen to the radio that much anymore in general. Well, for the exception of Kevin & Bean. Probably cuz they play the same shit over and and over again. Today's r&b isn't the same, so I still stick too my high school roots on my Ipod...Shai, Troop, BBD, ABC, Mint Condition, Tony Toni Tone, New Edition, Jodeci, Boyz II Men; and female bands like En Vogue, SWV, TLC, etc. Those were the good old days. Today's r&b isn't just the same anymore (yah, shuddup I'm old!) It's weird, cuz you can listen to these groups and say, 'damn i remember when this song came out.' But some of the stuff they have on now, you probably wont remember it 10 years from now. Again, that's just my opinion.

Here are some pics from the concert. I have some video clips, but I'm feeling lazy right now so I'll post em later. Pretty lucky I got my camera in since I was suppose to check it in after getting searched. But there was a line and Karen was ready to go in already. So we just said f' it, and went in.

As you can see, most of them are blurry, which sucks. With that in mind, I've joined the dSLR club. Hopefully I can take better shots (maybe not at a concert) and wont have to deal with anymore blurriness. But crap, I gotta learn how to use this bad boy.

Oh crap...I just found that my sister is pregnant....AGAIN!! What the eff woman!!?? Slow down!! This is her 5th kid and she's only 33. Good gawd! I swear!! Ever since 1997 with her first child, every two years she gets pregnant. But don't get me wront, I love my neices and nephews, they are the best! They are sooooo cute!!! But man, when they heck are you guys gonna stop!??

Okay, off to San Diego for the weekend. Happy Mother's Day to my mom, sister, grandma, aunts, and all the mothers out there!