December 31, 2013
Its 10:30 AM here. Poor Suzy has to work at 8 pm ish and there are LOUD sound checks going on already. This dude is drumming and its like he is on the balcony with us. Jessica Sanchez from American Idol is here to perform and a bunch of great local acts. I am pretty excited.
So I had been thinking of this for awhile and Facebook helped by posting a year in review. So much to go over so I will just touch on the highlights.
First, at this point last year, I was so happy to get rid of 2012. That was a tough year. Other than a great year for me announcing roller Derby, it sucked. I had surgery in September after months of missed diagnoses and pain. 4 months of pain following hadn't helped either.
Then Paxton Bennett invited me to cheer him on at the Miami Marathon in January. Things started picking up. The January race was great and just the distraction I needed to stop feeling sorry for myself. We were pretty active. Got to see Key West, eat some great food... and had 10th row seats to see the Miami Heat. Awesome. Saw a Dude hit a half court shot for 75K and get mobbed by LBJ. The trip to Miami was a great time. 80 degrees Fahrenheit when it is 0 in Iowa is even better. Little did I know that would become my life. . .
February... Suzy and I joined our friends the Rogers and went to the Bacon Festival. Wow! LOVE BACON... Even after eating pounds of it in every possible form. Suzy and I also celebrated our 5 year anniversary of our first date. Great times. and Time Flies.
Somewhere around March... there was a whisper in Suzy's ear to start considering a relocation to the Philippines... I remember getting home from work, and she said, "I have a question to ask..." Wow...
In March we also got to meet our favorite Iowa Energy player, Paul Harris. That was great. We really miss not being able to see the Iowa Energy games.
Fast forward to May... Mother's Day. We had decided to make the move to the Philippines and it was time to tell the parents. Only God knows if we will have children and this was like that moment. Both sides were quite understanding...
I announced my final roller derby bouts until my return in Mason City. What a great time. I announced with a rookie, Scary Jerry, Pros in Joe Malone and stunt rocker and maybe the youngest derby announcer in the nation in Candy Cage. I am blessed. I miss my roller derby family very much.
June... I always love June-- its my birth month. But I had the best Birthday ever as Adam Kempenaar got me a ticket to see the Chicago Blackhawks in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final. Wow! Triple Overtime! Game was over after Midnight in Chicago. I still was work by 10 the next day! What an excellent whirlwind once in a lifetime opportunity. Best birthday ever! We also were able to announce to the world that we were moving!
July... I participated in my last 5K in the states. Paxton destroyed the competition and won the right to throw out the first pitch at the Iowa Cubs game. He was so cool to allow me to take that honor. How awesome. I know 20 people get to this anymore, but its something I always wanted to do, like getting a key to a city, and it was great. Just wish i would not have one hopped the pitch.
The next month seemed like a race to get everything in and see everyone one last time. In hindsight... I wish I could have eaten more pizza and Jethro's BBQ. I miss that the most. I also miss my Wells Fargo friends and people I used to work with at the Attorney General offices.
We moved August 25. The rest of our travails are blogged about so I am not going to detail it...
But what I will say is that I really miss home. I love all of my friends and family back there dearly. I really enjoy living here and I have made a lot of friends here and met some super cool people. It is culturally so different and I will thank Suzy until the day I die for letting me join her on this adventure. When this eventually ends I will probably be really sad for leaving... So if I learned anything, it is keep your chin up, keep doing the right thing and let life take you on its journey.
Next on the agenda... popping some cold ones with friends and celebrating the new year. We live at ground zero for the celebration... I cannot wait.
So. Thanks to all of you for being a part of my 2013... and here's to a great 2014 for us all!
Take care of yourselves...
Chuck
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Monday, December 30, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--Fitness First
Dec. 30, 2013
Almost 2014! I plan on recapping this wonderful year over the next couple days... but first I wanted to talk about a recent workout.
A few weeks ago I was hanging out at Fridays in the afternoon. A lady there hanging out asked if I wanted a 3 day free gym membership to a place down the street. We have an ok workout facility here but I figured what the heck. To get it I had to give her my name and cell #. MISTAKE 1.
After a couple days, I started getting incessant calls. If its not a number that I have programmed in I do not answer. Then the texts came. It was Cecilly (which I thought was just a Grinnell name) the Fitness First lady. They were endless. So finally I told her Id be in. I got there and honestly, it was super nice. I got a tour and the facilities were great. the workout included a personal trainer and I knew then I would have to sit through the hard sale.
I knew I wasnt getting a membership, but I understand they have a job to do. But I had to go through everything. First, a consult. BMI time! Wow-- what a shock My Body Mass is HIGH. NO $#%@!
Cecilly says, "You know why you are here? to lose weight." I wanted to say, "YEP, so you will stop calling me!" She then asks, "What is your biggest problem? Do you drink?" UMMM You gave me this at Friday's. I wasn't having a Mango Smoothie. There';s a reason when I walk in the bartender says, "CHUCK! 1 Liter!"
so It is workout time... My personal trainer was a nice enough guy named VJ. He forgot my name after a few minutes, saying he is bad with names. I said , "It's Chuck. VJ, try to associate the name of the person you meet. Like You are VJ... MTV has VJ's so when I see you I think MTV-VJ. Done, I will always remember your name." He had never heard of that but will try it. I hope it works.
We went to the eliptical for 10 minutes warm up. He was getting to know me and advised I needed better shoes-- I said--"OK tell me where on the island to buy workout shoes over size 13?" Silence.
I also advised him that I run 5Ks. He wasn't ready for that or that I handled 10 minutes on the eliptical while chatting it up with him.
Next the hard part. He went straight to an arms and back work out. My biceps were burning! That was a brutal workout. I appreciate that he was pushing me, but that was a little much. The gym was beautiful though-- they had tons of space, and had a water bar... I could also get tea or coffee. There was guys that got you drinks and wiped off all the machines. very nice. Then I did some squats until my quads were on fire.
After the workout, VJ sat me down and stretched me out. That was good. He then sent me off to talk to Cecilly for the hard sale. Now I know how to say no. Suzy was away so I wasnt going to agree anyway.
The offer... 12 months membership for an initial fee of 10,000 pesos (about $220) and monthly fee of 3700 pesos(about $90) .... I told her no that had to talk to Suzy and her prices were just for me. We had to double all of that. She countered, "Just put it on your credit card." No.
She then realized I wasn't budging. so she left and TAG, in comes the closer. I do not know if it was by design, but this lady had a button down blouse on with very few buttons affixed. I told her the same. we went round and round. They were going to cut me a deal and cut my fees to 7500. NO. "But you can just put this on your credit card." No.
Finally she left and Cecilly came back and led me out. I thanked them as it was a great gym and a good workout.
The next day.... here comes the pain. My Biceps were so tight I couldnt bend my arms.
That took a week to go away.
also the next day came the texts -- "When you coming back? Have you talked to Suzy?"
Those haven't gone away.
No means No.
Almost 2014! I plan on recapping this wonderful year over the next couple days... but first I wanted to talk about a recent workout.
A few weeks ago I was hanging out at Fridays in the afternoon. A lady there hanging out asked if I wanted a 3 day free gym membership to a place down the street. We have an ok workout facility here but I figured what the heck. To get it I had to give her my name and cell #. MISTAKE 1.
After a couple days, I started getting incessant calls. If its not a number that I have programmed in I do not answer. Then the texts came. It was Cecilly (which I thought was just a Grinnell name) the Fitness First lady. They were endless. So finally I told her Id be in. I got there and honestly, it was super nice. I got a tour and the facilities were great. the workout included a personal trainer and I knew then I would have to sit through the hard sale.
I knew I wasnt getting a membership, but I understand they have a job to do. But I had to go through everything. First, a consult. BMI time! Wow-- what a shock My Body Mass is HIGH. NO $#%@!
Cecilly says, "You know why you are here? to lose weight." I wanted to say, "YEP, so you will stop calling me!" She then asks, "What is your biggest problem? Do you drink?" UMMM You gave me this at Friday's. I wasn't having a Mango Smoothie. There';s a reason when I walk in the bartender says, "CHUCK! 1 Liter!"
so It is workout time... My personal trainer was a nice enough guy named VJ. He forgot my name after a few minutes, saying he is bad with names. I said , "It's Chuck. VJ, try to associate the name of the person you meet. Like You are VJ... MTV has VJ's so when I see you I think MTV-VJ. Done, I will always remember your name." He had never heard of that but will try it. I hope it works.
We went to the eliptical for 10 minutes warm up. He was getting to know me and advised I needed better shoes-- I said--"OK tell me where on the island to buy workout shoes over size 13?" Silence.
I also advised him that I run 5Ks. He wasn't ready for that or that I handled 10 minutes on the eliptical while chatting it up with him.
Next the hard part. He went straight to an arms and back work out. My biceps were burning! That was a brutal workout. I appreciate that he was pushing me, but that was a little much. The gym was beautiful though-- they had tons of space, and had a water bar... I could also get tea or coffee. There was guys that got you drinks and wiped off all the machines. very nice. Then I did some squats until my quads were on fire.
After the workout, VJ sat me down and stretched me out. That was good. He then sent me off to talk to Cecilly for the hard sale. Now I know how to say no. Suzy was away so I wasnt going to agree anyway.
The offer... 12 months membership for an initial fee of 10,000 pesos (about $220) and monthly fee of 3700 pesos(about $90) .... I told her no that had to talk to Suzy and her prices were just for me. We had to double all of that. She countered, "Just put it on your credit card." No.
She then realized I wasn't budging. so she left and TAG, in comes the closer. I do not know if it was by design, but this lady had a button down blouse on with very few buttons affixed. I told her the same. we went round and round. They were going to cut me a deal and cut my fees to 7500. NO. "But you can just put this on your credit card." No.
Finally she left and Cecilly came back and led me out. I thanked them as it was a great gym and a good workout.
The next day.... here comes the pain. My Biceps were so tight I couldnt bend my arms.
That took a week to go away.
also the next day came the texts -- "When you coming back? Have you talked to Suzy?"
Those haven't gone away.
No means No.
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines-- Nochebuena
December 24, 2013
Merry Christmas Eve!
First, from Suzy and I, we wish each and everyone of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Whatever your beliefs, religion, etc. I hope this finds you and your family in the best of health and spirit (for those of you who do not celebrate Christmas).
Christmas is just a little different here and I wanted to share. As for us, we will not get to celebrate it like the locals do as Suzy works tonight.
My friends here have explained to me how Christmas is celebrated and it sounds cool. It is called Nochebuena. I have attached its definition from Wikipedia.
"In the Philippines, the traditional dinner comes at midnight after the family has attended the late evening Mass known as Misa de Gallo. Some of the more conventional dishes served for the main course include: lechón, pancit, sweet-tasting spaghetti, fried chicken, hamón, quezo de bola, arroz caldo, lumpia, turkey, relyenong bangus (stuffed milkfish), adobo, steamed rice, and various breads including pan de sal. Desserts include úbe halayá, bibingka, membrilyo, fruit salad, and various different rice and flour-based cakes, ice cream, pastries and fruits, while popular beverages include the seasonal tsokolate as well as coffee, soft drinks, wine, beer, and fruit juices."
Lechon is roast pork and very good. We do have a ham and the fixings for the sweet spaghetti, fruit salad and some of the others. We also will make stuffing.
As part of Nochebuena, presents are after the dinner. Obviously as Suzy is working, our Christmas will be a little more American-traditional. I will call my parents around 9 am my time, we will make a Christmas breakfast casserole, unwrap gifts, and then in the afternoon, have our big dinner.
One difference here is that it looks like all stores and restaurants will be open. Things will open later, but looks like by Noon its business as usual.
So again, Merry Christmas to all,
Chuck and Suzy U.
Merry Christmas Eve!
First, from Suzy and I, we wish each and everyone of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Whatever your beliefs, religion, etc. I hope this finds you and your family in the best of health and spirit (for those of you who do not celebrate Christmas).
Christmas is just a little different here and I wanted to share. As for us, we will not get to celebrate it like the locals do as Suzy works tonight.
My friends here have explained to me how Christmas is celebrated and it sounds cool. It is called Nochebuena. I have attached its definition from Wikipedia.
"In the Philippines, the traditional dinner comes at midnight after the family has attended the late evening Mass known as Misa de Gallo. Some of the more conventional dishes served for the main course include: lechón, pancit, sweet-tasting spaghetti, fried chicken, hamón, quezo de bola, arroz caldo, lumpia, turkey, relyenong bangus (stuffed milkfish), adobo, steamed rice, and various breads including pan de sal. Desserts include úbe halayá, bibingka, membrilyo, fruit salad, and various different rice and flour-based cakes, ice cream, pastries and fruits, while popular beverages include the seasonal tsokolate as well as coffee, soft drinks, wine, beer, and fruit juices."
Lechon is roast pork and very good. We do have a ham and the fixings for the sweet spaghetti, fruit salad and some of the others. We also will make stuffing.
As part of Nochebuena, presents are after the dinner. Obviously as Suzy is working, our Christmas will be a little more American-traditional. I will call my parents around 9 am my time, we will make a Christmas breakfast casserole, unwrap gifts, and then in the afternoon, have our big dinner.
One difference here is that it looks like all stores and restaurants will be open. Things will open later, but looks like by Noon its business as usual.
So again, Merry Christmas to all,
Chuck and Suzy U.
Sunday, December 8, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines-- The Smella in Manila
December 08, 2013
Good day, everyone!
We have been focused on sights and tastes here in Quezon City. There are a ton of them. Things to do, places to see, food and drink to taste. Today we are going to focus on another sense. The Smells. Suzy and I have been brainstorming this one and she is going to give her take first. Instead of describing the sights as one would leave our condo, she will describe the smells.
"Shutting the door and walking into the hallway of the 7th floor, it stinks. Hit the down button and board the elevator. As the door closes, the elevator stinks. Door opens on the ground floor and that doesn't stink that bad. Heading past the front desk, still doesn't stink that bad, until... the doorman opens the door. A whiff of the outdoor air, and its the sweet smell of hamburger and heat.
We will then step to the street so the fun can begin! First, I do not think there are any emissions standards. The exhaust is suffocating. . .and it stinks. Lets take a left and head the block towards Robinson's Supermarket. Ahh a sewer vent. It really, really stinks. then a few feet past is a different kind of stink. Its more of a canal, rotten, rancid water stink. We will walk a little faster past that one and ahhh, the side street adjacent to Robinson's. It is more of a rotten fish stink.
What is interesting, is that Eastwood City is tremendously clean. It is pristine. There are always crews sweeping and cleaning. These smells sneak in from the outside. Manila is dirty. Eastwood City is clean, yet smelly. Taxi cabs-- they all smell basically the same, with a twinge of personal aromas."
All I would add is that there is a fire stairwell. I thought I could walk it instead of the elevator, but all of the doors are locked from the stairwell for safety. Too bad I found that out on the 7th floor. so the stairwell has an oppressive odor and its 120 degrees.
Later tonight, we are going to a nice restaurant with Rolf and his wife. within the confines of a restaurant we should tease our senses with great sights, sounds and tastes.
Take care of yourselves everyone...
Chuck and Suzy U.
Good day, everyone!
We have been focused on sights and tastes here in Quezon City. There are a ton of them. Things to do, places to see, food and drink to taste. Today we are going to focus on another sense. The Smells. Suzy and I have been brainstorming this one and she is going to give her take first. Instead of describing the sights as one would leave our condo, she will describe the smells.
"Shutting the door and walking into the hallway of the 7th floor, it stinks. Hit the down button and board the elevator. As the door closes, the elevator stinks. Door opens on the ground floor and that doesn't stink that bad. Heading past the front desk, still doesn't stink that bad, until... the doorman opens the door. A whiff of the outdoor air, and its the sweet smell of hamburger and heat.
We will then step to the street so the fun can begin! First, I do not think there are any emissions standards. The exhaust is suffocating. . .and it stinks. Lets take a left and head the block towards Robinson's Supermarket. Ahh a sewer vent. It really, really stinks. then a few feet past is a different kind of stink. Its more of a canal, rotten, rancid water stink. We will walk a little faster past that one and ahhh, the side street adjacent to Robinson's. It is more of a rotten fish stink.
What is interesting, is that Eastwood City is tremendously clean. It is pristine. There are always crews sweeping and cleaning. These smells sneak in from the outside. Manila is dirty. Eastwood City is clean, yet smelly. Taxi cabs-- they all smell basically the same, with a twinge of personal aromas."
All I would add is that there is a fire stairwell. I thought I could walk it instead of the elevator, but all of the doors are locked from the stairwell for safety. Too bad I found that out on the 7th floor. so the stairwell has an oppressive odor and its 120 degrees.
Later tonight, we are going to a nice restaurant with Rolf and his wife. within the confines of a restaurant we should tease our senses with great sights, sounds and tastes.
Take care of yourselves everyone...
Chuck and Suzy U.
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--Anecdotes from the last week
December 3, 2013
Good day everyone!
I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving with their family and friends. it was different spending one away from everyone but enjoyed calling my parents at 6 am my time (4 pm mst). Turkey can be found, but without a stove, we stuck to a ham that could fit in our toaster oven. Homemade stuffing, potatoes, ham, YUM. Suzy did great cooking. My sole contribution was crumbling bread. I can crumble tasty like no other.
Here are some interesting observations from the last week--
--I like packaged Ramen noodles -- The grocery store has a whole side of an aisle dedicated to ramen. The noodle cup today came with 2 forks in it. That has to be good luck.
--McDonalds screwed up our order for the first time. We have probably gone there 15-20 times in 3 months. 1st screwup... I can't argue with that. The Ankeny and Newton ones I used to frequent are probably at 50%.
--I have decided to try very hard to speak the local Tagalog language. It is fun to see the locals eyes light up or at sometimes laugh at me. Suzy and I hope after 2 years to be able to hold a conversation.
--My conversational Tagalog so far
How are you-- Koomuhstah
I'm fine--Mahbuti
Thank you-- salamat
You're Welcome-- Walang alamat
--A guy actually held the door for me after leaving a convenience store. I went with "Salamat" -- he countered with, "Anytime, Dude"
--My friend from last week, Florence, said that his hero is Rob Schneider. Well Rob Schneider was just awarded a star in the Eastwood City Walk of Fame. Apparently Rob is a hero to a lot of Filipinos. I tweeted Rob a picture of the star-- to which he replied, "That's VERY NICE! Now more people can step on me! Very honored, Thank you Eastwood City, Philippines!"
--My life is starting to revolve around cable tv and premieres. The new season of Billy the exterminator has just started. So I got that going for me.
--If I see one more ad though for Bonnie and Clyde I think I may re enact their escapades in Stuart, Iowa. It is a little much-- Next Monday and Tuesday when they show it can't come soon enough.
--We got a membership to their version of Costco-- I have gone 3 months without a diet Mountain dew. Hoped they had it there as Suzy had been told they had more American type products. Nope, but at least they also have a whole side devoted to ramen.
--We went to see Frozen. It is cool to hear the kids explain the plot to their parents. We really enjoyed the movie. The snowman stole the show.
--I found out that "The Bourne Legacy" was filmed in Marikina which is a town over from us. I looked to see any familiar landmarks, but no. One thing that wasn't realistic, was the traffic. There is a great chase scene that shows them weaving in and out of 3 organized lanes of traffic on motorcycles. That part is correct, but so is everyone else on a bike, as well as taxis, trucks and SUVs. 3 designed lanes hold 5 lanes of traffic. It is chaos. I cant believe I haven't seen an accident yet.-- on a side note-- there is a huge shoe museum in Marikina I want to go to. It houses a portion of Immelda Marcos's collection. Another portion burned in a fire . . . Talk about a hotfoot.
--Vince turns 5 tomorrow. Wow. Where has the time gone. Happy Birthday, Vinny!
--The following all happened during the last couple trips at Fridays...
1. The song from the dance scene in Napoleon Dynamite came on. I told the bartender Don, that I like this song from the movie. He said, "What is this Napoleon Dynamite?" I will tell you, it is harder than heck trying to explain that movie to the Filipinos. If only Rob Schneider had starred in it.
2. When I walk in, everyone says "Hi Chuck!" and a few of the guy waiters give me fist bumps or high fives. One waiter, Noli, came over and I had not seen him working for awhile. I said, "Noli! How have you been?" "Upstairs." Cue Lost In Translation again.
3. Ive met a guy who lives a few islands south. His name is Rolf. He is from Germany originally and has lived here the last 17 years. This weekend we are going to meet him and his wife at a local restaurant for a dinner. Should be fun. Rolf has a real thick accent that is half Arnold Schwarzenegger and half the guys from beerfest. He has been real helpful in explaining the local customs to me and is fun to talk to at Fridays.
He was explaining to me how the Germans name system worked. I asked him about my last name as there was question if Utech is German or Polish. He explained it was probably Polish. He then also explained how in Germany they did the practice of last names evolving from one's profession. Smiths, millers, etc. His last name is Winkelhausen. He said it is "House of . . .Winkel" Ahh, I wondered about that buddy. thanks!
4. On Monday night, a good 24 hours since Paul Walker's passing, they still thought it was an internet hoax. I had to get online and show the manager that it was real. She was saddened.
--11 years ago today I had major surgery. Helped save my life. Steve Karsten drove me to the Rockford, Illinois area for the operation and 4 days later. Missy Douglas picked me up and took me home. Steve passed away in 2005 following a long fight with Muscular Dystrophy. Missy died in 2008, following a seizure at her job. Not a day goes by when I do not think of them and their sacrifice for me. I miss them dearly.
Until next time everyone! 3 weeks until Christmas! Take care of yourselves.
Chuck
Good day everyone!
I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving with their family and friends. it was different spending one away from everyone but enjoyed calling my parents at 6 am my time (4 pm mst). Turkey can be found, but without a stove, we stuck to a ham that could fit in our toaster oven. Homemade stuffing, potatoes, ham, YUM. Suzy did great cooking. My sole contribution was crumbling bread. I can crumble tasty like no other.
Here are some interesting observations from the last week--
--I like packaged Ramen noodles -- The grocery store has a whole side of an aisle dedicated to ramen. The noodle cup today came with 2 forks in it. That has to be good luck.
--McDonalds screwed up our order for the first time. We have probably gone there 15-20 times in 3 months. 1st screwup... I can't argue with that. The Ankeny and Newton ones I used to frequent are probably at 50%.
--I have decided to try very hard to speak the local Tagalog language. It is fun to see the locals eyes light up or at sometimes laugh at me. Suzy and I hope after 2 years to be able to hold a conversation.
--My conversational Tagalog so far
How are you-- Koomuhstah
I'm fine--Mahbuti
Thank you-- salamat
You're Welcome-- Walang alamat
--A guy actually held the door for me after leaving a convenience store. I went with "Salamat" -- he countered with, "Anytime, Dude"
--My friend from last week, Florence, said that his hero is Rob Schneider. Well Rob Schneider was just awarded a star in the Eastwood City Walk of Fame. Apparently Rob is a hero to a lot of Filipinos. I tweeted Rob a picture of the star-- to which he replied, "That's VERY NICE! Now more people can step on me! Very honored, Thank you Eastwood City, Philippines!"
--My life is starting to revolve around cable tv and premieres. The new season of Billy the exterminator has just started. So I got that going for me.
--If I see one more ad though for Bonnie and Clyde I think I may re enact their escapades in Stuart, Iowa. It is a little much-- Next Monday and Tuesday when they show it can't come soon enough.
--We got a membership to their version of Costco-- I have gone 3 months without a diet Mountain dew. Hoped they had it there as Suzy had been told they had more American type products. Nope, but at least they also have a whole side devoted to ramen.
--We went to see Frozen. It is cool to hear the kids explain the plot to their parents. We really enjoyed the movie. The snowman stole the show.
--I found out that "The Bourne Legacy" was filmed in Marikina which is a town over from us. I looked to see any familiar landmarks, but no. One thing that wasn't realistic, was the traffic. There is a great chase scene that shows them weaving in and out of 3 organized lanes of traffic on motorcycles. That part is correct, but so is everyone else on a bike, as well as taxis, trucks and SUVs. 3 designed lanes hold 5 lanes of traffic. It is chaos. I cant believe I haven't seen an accident yet.-- on a side note-- there is a huge shoe museum in Marikina I want to go to. It houses a portion of Immelda Marcos's collection. Another portion burned in a fire . . . Talk about a hotfoot.
--Vince turns 5 tomorrow. Wow. Where has the time gone. Happy Birthday, Vinny!
--The following all happened during the last couple trips at Fridays...
1. The song from the dance scene in Napoleon Dynamite came on. I told the bartender Don, that I like this song from the movie. He said, "What is this Napoleon Dynamite?" I will tell you, it is harder than heck trying to explain that movie to the Filipinos. If only Rob Schneider had starred in it.
2. When I walk in, everyone says "Hi Chuck!" and a few of the guy waiters give me fist bumps or high fives. One waiter, Noli, came over and I had not seen him working for awhile. I said, "Noli! How have you been?" "Upstairs." Cue Lost In Translation again.
3. Ive met a guy who lives a few islands south. His name is Rolf. He is from Germany originally and has lived here the last 17 years. This weekend we are going to meet him and his wife at a local restaurant for a dinner. Should be fun. Rolf has a real thick accent that is half Arnold Schwarzenegger and half the guys from beerfest. He has been real helpful in explaining the local customs to me and is fun to talk to at Fridays.
He was explaining to me how the Germans name system worked. I asked him about my last name as there was question if Utech is German or Polish. He explained it was probably Polish. He then also explained how in Germany they did the practice of last names evolving from one's profession. Smiths, millers, etc. His last name is Winkelhausen. He said it is "House of . . .Winkel" Ahh, I wondered about that buddy. thanks!
4. On Monday night, a good 24 hours since Paul Walker's passing, they still thought it was an internet hoax. I had to get online and show the manager that it was real. She was saddened.
--11 years ago today I had major surgery. Helped save my life. Steve Karsten drove me to the Rockford, Illinois area for the operation and 4 days later. Missy Douglas picked me up and took me home. Steve passed away in 2005 following a long fight with Muscular Dystrophy. Missy died in 2008, following a seizure at her job. Not a day goes by when I do not think of them and their sacrifice for me. I miss them dearly.
Until next time everyone! 3 weeks until Christmas! Take care of yourselves.
Chuck
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--Doubleheader blog day! I made a new friend
November 27, 2013
I hope everyone is doing well. I can smell the turkey now. Granted there really isn't turkey around here that we have found except for the street vendor (Chef Anton) that yells "U.S. Roast BEEEEEF, U.S. TurKEYYYYYYY." We are going with a Thanksgiving ham. Not sure when we will make it-- Thursday here, or Thursday time in the states-- the jury is still out.
I do not do the November days of being thankful on Facebook, but I sure enjoy reading them from everyone. Mine would be the same... Thankful for health, safety, for my family, for my wife and this opportunity we have embarked upon, and thankful for a lot of other things that may be a little more materialistic compared to what millions of locals endure daily.
I met a local guy today that puts the whole Thanksgiving idea in perspective. The rain has been subsiding so I have been going to the pool more often. The best time is about Noon-three in the afternoon. Mornings are good but the pool is not heated, so it is COLD. It can be chilly in the PM, but at least the sun is beaming down on me and my aqua-robics.
Today at the pool I got in and there were two others who were already treading water. One was an older guy doing laps. Another was a younger, Filipino kid probably 18 or so. He was just walking around in the pool. I got in and exclaimed, "COLD." much to the laughter of the younger pool patron. I did some laps and then took a break by the edge of the pool as another group got in and fought the cold water. The younger kid came by me and asked me probably the number 2 question I get here. Number 1 is, "Is your wife Filipina?" which came later. Just behind it is, "Are you from the U.K.?" He thought I looked just like people from London.
HA! No. I told my new friend, Florence, I am from the U.S. He replied that he just moved here, too. . . from Tacloban (the hardest hit area of the Typhoon). Florence continued on to tell me a ton of stories, some heartbreaking, some funny, some a little far fetched. Even if he was at an 80% truth rate, he told me some amazing things. Among his stories were:
--He moved into his Aunt's condo with his 2 sisters. His Mom and Dad stayed behind to protect what was left of their house.
--The house was devastated by Yolanda. What was left got picked over by looters. Thus, his parents are watching what is left to prevent any more looting.
--His Dad has shot 3 looters.
--They are staying here for 2 months or so and then he is going to college.
--They had advanced warning of the storm, but nowhere safe to go, so they had to wait out the storm in the house.
--He still has nightmares of the sound the storm made. The waves pounding the house, the wind, the water coming in... all images he gets when he tries to sleep. PTSD. The worst he said is the dead bodies he saw floating. Some were friends, some were neighbors, some were just other citizens. He can't forget the bloated bodies. I bet not. That sucks.
--He also was a looter. after a few days of not being able to eat, he went and got fruit for his family. Then, he decided to go to a grocery store. Worried about the rice and other items, he went after anything international as he figured it was safe. He looted can upon can of. . . SPAM! The family stayed alive thanks to Spam.
--I was advised that I need to learn curse words in Tagalog. The locals allegedly will respect a guy saying the native version of "BS."
--Florence said to never, ever eat the Sardines here. They cannot be trusted. Guess I will be tossing my half eaten jar.
--He shares my sentiment that Manny Pacquiao will someday be President of the Philippines.
--There were huge delays in aid because of a political fight between the Mayor of Tacloban and the current President of the Philippines. I explained to him that politics and gridlock happens in America, too.
So, as Thanksgiving approaches here... I am so thankful for Suzy, Vince and our health here in the Philippines. I am blessed to have a wonderful family, great in-laws and the best friends. Suzy and I and the millions here were survivors technically of the worst typhoon in world history. We, however, did not survive like so many others that clung to life. They are thankful for another day on earth.
Take care of yourselves everyone. This Thanksgiving, laugh a little louder, hug your loved ones a little tighter and remember to be thankful for everything we have been blessed with. Enjoy!
Chuck
I hope everyone is doing well. I can smell the turkey now. Granted there really isn't turkey around here that we have found except for the street vendor (Chef Anton) that yells "U.S. Roast BEEEEEF, U.S. TurKEYYYYYYY." We are going with a Thanksgiving ham. Not sure when we will make it-- Thursday here, or Thursday time in the states-- the jury is still out.
I do not do the November days of being thankful on Facebook, but I sure enjoy reading them from everyone. Mine would be the same... Thankful for health, safety, for my family, for my wife and this opportunity we have embarked upon, and thankful for a lot of other things that may be a little more materialistic compared to what millions of locals endure daily.
I met a local guy today that puts the whole Thanksgiving idea in perspective. The rain has been subsiding so I have been going to the pool more often. The best time is about Noon-three in the afternoon. Mornings are good but the pool is not heated, so it is COLD. It can be chilly in the PM, but at least the sun is beaming down on me and my aqua-robics.
Today at the pool I got in and there were two others who were already treading water. One was an older guy doing laps. Another was a younger, Filipino kid probably 18 or so. He was just walking around in the pool. I got in and exclaimed, "COLD." much to the laughter of the younger pool patron. I did some laps and then took a break by the edge of the pool as another group got in and fought the cold water. The younger kid came by me and asked me probably the number 2 question I get here. Number 1 is, "Is your wife Filipina?" which came later. Just behind it is, "Are you from the U.K.?" He thought I looked just like people from London.
HA! No. I told my new friend, Florence, I am from the U.S. He replied that he just moved here, too. . . from Tacloban (the hardest hit area of the Typhoon). Florence continued on to tell me a ton of stories, some heartbreaking, some funny, some a little far fetched. Even if he was at an 80% truth rate, he told me some amazing things. Among his stories were:
--He moved into his Aunt's condo with his 2 sisters. His Mom and Dad stayed behind to protect what was left of their house.
--The house was devastated by Yolanda. What was left got picked over by looters. Thus, his parents are watching what is left to prevent any more looting.
--His Dad has shot 3 looters.
--They are staying here for 2 months or so and then he is going to college.
--They had advanced warning of the storm, but nowhere safe to go, so they had to wait out the storm in the house.
--He still has nightmares of the sound the storm made. The waves pounding the house, the wind, the water coming in... all images he gets when he tries to sleep. PTSD. The worst he said is the dead bodies he saw floating. Some were friends, some were neighbors, some were just other citizens. He can't forget the bloated bodies. I bet not. That sucks.
--He also was a looter. after a few days of not being able to eat, he went and got fruit for his family. Then, he decided to go to a grocery store. Worried about the rice and other items, he went after anything international as he figured it was safe. He looted can upon can of. . . SPAM! The family stayed alive thanks to Spam.
--I was advised that I need to learn curse words in Tagalog. The locals allegedly will respect a guy saying the native version of "BS."
--Florence said to never, ever eat the Sardines here. They cannot be trusted. Guess I will be tossing my half eaten jar.
--He shares my sentiment that Manny Pacquiao will someday be President of the Philippines.
--There were huge delays in aid because of a political fight between the Mayor of Tacloban and the current President of the Philippines. I explained to him that politics and gridlock happens in America, too.
So, as Thanksgiving approaches here... I am so thankful for Suzy, Vince and our health here in the Philippines. I am blessed to have a wonderful family, great in-laws and the best friends. Suzy and I and the millions here were survivors technically of the worst typhoon in world history. We, however, did not survive like so many others that clung to life. They are thankful for another day on earth.
Take care of yourselves everyone. This Thanksgiving, laugh a little louder, hug your loved ones a little tighter and remember to be thankful for everything we have been blessed with. Enjoy!
Chuck
Chilling in the Philippines--Manny Pacquiao fight
Good day everyone! Hope everyone is ready for the holidays!
It is hard for Suzy and I to fathom we have been here 3 months already. In addition, its hard to believe its almost December. We are so conditioned by the seasons, that 90 degrees daily has us thinking its still August. I am ready for the State Fair it feels like.
Last week we decided it would be a great cultural experience to go to a big screen and watch local hero Manny Pacquiao fight. The match was just a couple hours away in China and being shown on Sunday morning. Manny is fighting the local version of the IRS on taxes, but otherwise... he is regarded as a national hero. He is a Congressman, boxer, and the locals LOVE him. I talked to a few people and he embodies the spirit of the common Filipino. He grew up dirt poor and was able to make the most of his life. He brings hope.
The day before the fight, Suzy and I went to the cinema to get advanced tickets. One chooses their seats for this so we thought it was a good time. Our jaws dropped when we saw about 100 people in line. "Oh no!" We figured we would never get tickets. Well it wasn't manny people were in line for. I forgot it was Hunger Games 2 time. We were able to procure our seats and be on our way. The poster said 8 am.. Ok... 8 am fight we are there.
Sunday arrives. I am a little groggy because I was up all night following Iowa beating Michigan. Suzy was groggy because Saturday is a tough sleeping day/night for her. She gets home Saturday AM and its tough adjusting. We head to the Cinema for the Sunday fights and NO one is around. Well I look at the ticket and its actually 9 am. GREAT. We then stumble down from the 4th floor (the mall down escalator was off) and head to a coffee shop. A cup of joe later, we wasted time and it was 9 am.
Trip #2 to the cinema still didnt have a lot of people there. Fights were on and the screen had a countdown until Pacquiao/Rios. What it didn't say is that it was the countdown until the PPV began, not the fight. Now, poor Suzy is not a boxing fan. I like it, but she does not. So getting her there for 2-3 fights was going to be a chore, 2-3 fights and then a full undercard... OH my! I owe her big time.
PPV begins finally and we take advantage of freebies. our 700 peso ticket (15 bucks) also got us a hot dog on a stick and a box of milk. We watched the first fight and ate our hot dog and drank cow's milk in a box. The 3rd fight we caught a break as one fighter said his version of "No Mas" after the 3rd round and quit. by the time of the fight before the main event, it was a full house.
Finally, time for Pacquiao v. Rios. First the United States National Anthem was played. We sure felt a sense of pride. Although we were rooting for Pac Man, it is a big deal. Then the Philippines National Anthem was sung... wow, what an experience. It wasn't Jim Cornelison Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals, but it was cool. People were singing loudly. I could appreciate their pride.
"Let's get ready to Rumblllllllllllllllle!"
The fight itself was fairly anti-climactic. Congressman Pacquiao dominated the whole fight. What was fun was feeling wach punch through the sounds on the screen and the sounds of the crowd. They were over dramatic on each punch. Then came the Chants. "Manny, Manny, Manny!" and "Pac-ee-ow!" That lasted 12 rounds. It was loud.
Finally, after a beat down ... 12 rounds were complete and it was time to get to the scorecards. Manny wins! WHOO HOOO! The crowd went nuts... One lady tried videotaping the screen. It was fun to see an usher swoop in and enforce their strict no video policy. DELETE DELETE DELETE. Whew, because I was going to take a picture of the final results...
The fight was over, it was 1:30 and our nearly 6 hour odyssey had reached its final round. Ding Ding. For a part of the day, I felt as if I was also part of the Filipino spirit. With so much going on... it was nice to see some good news for the people down here.
Take care of yourselves Everyone.
Chuck
It is hard for Suzy and I to fathom we have been here 3 months already. In addition, its hard to believe its almost December. We are so conditioned by the seasons, that 90 degrees daily has us thinking its still August. I am ready for the State Fair it feels like.
Last week we decided it would be a great cultural experience to go to a big screen and watch local hero Manny Pacquiao fight. The match was just a couple hours away in China and being shown on Sunday morning. Manny is fighting the local version of the IRS on taxes, but otherwise... he is regarded as a national hero. He is a Congressman, boxer, and the locals LOVE him. I talked to a few people and he embodies the spirit of the common Filipino. He grew up dirt poor and was able to make the most of his life. He brings hope.
The day before the fight, Suzy and I went to the cinema to get advanced tickets. One chooses their seats for this so we thought it was a good time. Our jaws dropped when we saw about 100 people in line. "Oh no!" We figured we would never get tickets. Well it wasn't manny people were in line for. I forgot it was Hunger Games 2 time. We were able to procure our seats and be on our way. The poster said 8 am.. Ok... 8 am fight we are there.
Sunday arrives. I am a little groggy because I was up all night following Iowa beating Michigan. Suzy was groggy because Saturday is a tough sleeping day/night for her. She gets home Saturday AM and its tough adjusting. We head to the Cinema for the Sunday fights and NO one is around. Well I look at the ticket and its actually 9 am. GREAT. We then stumble down from the 4th floor (the mall down escalator was off) and head to a coffee shop. A cup of joe later, we wasted time and it was 9 am.
Trip #2 to the cinema still didnt have a lot of people there. Fights were on and the screen had a countdown until Pacquiao/Rios. What it didn't say is that it was the countdown until the PPV began, not the fight. Now, poor Suzy is not a boxing fan. I like it, but she does not. So getting her there for 2-3 fights was going to be a chore, 2-3 fights and then a full undercard... OH my! I owe her big time.
PPV begins finally and we take advantage of freebies. our 700 peso ticket (15 bucks) also got us a hot dog on a stick and a box of milk. We watched the first fight and ate our hot dog and drank cow's milk in a box. The 3rd fight we caught a break as one fighter said his version of "No Mas" after the 3rd round and quit. by the time of the fight before the main event, it was a full house.
Finally, time for Pacquiao v. Rios. First the United States National Anthem was played. We sure felt a sense of pride. Although we were rooting for Pac Man, it is a big deal. Then the Philippines National Anthem was sung... wow, what an experience. It wasn't Jim Cornelison Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals, but it was cool. People were singing loudly. I could appreciate their pride.
"Let's get ready to Rumblllllllllllllllle!"
The fight itself was fairly anti-climactic. Congressman Pacquiao dominated the whole fight. What was fun was feeling wach punch through the sounds on the screen and the sounds of the crowd. They were over dramatic on each punch. Then came the Chants. "Manny, Manny, Manny!" and "Pac-ee-ow!" That lasted 12 rounds. It was loud.
Finally, after a beat down ... 12 rounds were complete and it was time to get to the scorecards. Manny wins! WHOO HOOO! The crowd went nuts... One lady tried videotaping the screen. It was fun to see an usher swoop in and enforce their strict no video policy. DELETE DELETE DELETE. Whew, because I was going to take a picture of the final results...
The fight was over, it was 1:30 and our nearly 6 hour odyssey had reached its final round. Ding Ding. For a part of the day, I felt as if I was also part of the Filipino spirit. With so much going on... it was nice to see some good news for the people down here.
Take care of yourselves Everyone.
Chuck
Friday, November 15, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines---Waiting in line
November 15, 2013
Doubleheader blog day!
Hi all! Thanks again to everyone for their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time for a lot of this country.
In the two and a half months here, I am now going through my second cold. This one coincided with running out of my vitamin supply I had brought from home so it was time to stock up. Vitamins, any medications like Tylenol, or cough syrup, condoms, and many other items are all held behind a counter here at either a drug store or the supermarket. For cold relief, per se, one tells the clerk their symptoms and they come back with pills.
I went out on a trip to do some errands... our condo doesn't have an actual oven, just a stove top and the toaster oven is adequate, but not overwhelming. So Suzy gave me a task to do some price shopping for toasters. I made out an index card with a checklist of the features we wanted and included space to take notes on each model from the different shops. Our current toaster cooks at 250 degrees Fahrenheit. We are wanting something with a little more power. Unfortunately, 250 was the high from what I could find. I traipsed all over the mall. If this was a Family Circus Comic PJ's footsteps would have been everywhere. Unfortunately, I was unable to provide any candidates for Suzy. Now that chore has been done, time to go vitamin shopping.
Due to surgery I had over a decade ago, I have been on a daily dose of children's chewable vitamins with extra vitamin C. Wal Mart had a good store brand, but in June it was off the shelves so I had been making do with Flintstones +C. I went the drug store counter of our local Robinson's Supermarket and replied to the obligatory "HI SIR!" with "Hi, Children's Chewable multi-vitamin plus vitamin C please?"
Granted before I got a chance to ask, I was cut in front of. This happens all the time and I really struggle with it. The people here do not think it is a big deal. They do not hold doors for people or thank one for holding the door. Little things I am adjusting to. The lady at the counter said, "Vitamin C?"
"Yes, Children's chewable vitamin plus Vitamin C."
"Yes sir."
The lady goes back and a few minute later comes back with two different bottles. I asked,"Do you have them combined?" The lady sported a glazed over look on her face and replied, "no, sir." So I shelled out the equivalent of $8 for what is usually 5 or 6 in the states. I took my vitamins and before going home decided to go over a block to a place by the cinemas and get a 32 ounce soda as those are a rarity over here. I got a coke light and took respite in an oversized chair in the food court. As I watched people head to see Thor at one of the 6 screens it is showing on, I looked at my new vitamins-- might as well dose up. To my surprise and dismay, I was sold Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C tablets (which taste just like St. Joseph Children's Aspirin) and Vitamin C gummies. I was not sold a multi-vitamin.
I crawled out of the comfortable chair and made the walk of shame over to Robinson's.
"HI SIR!"
"Children's Chewable vitamin, please?"
"Yes sir."
She was glazed over as ever and after a few minutes came back with a children's multi-vitamin. These were $8 by themselves. Yikes. However, at least I am stocked up for the next 60 days and do not have to worry about this again for awhile.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following morning Suzy got home from work and we decided to walk to KFC for breakfast. They have decent breakfast food. For the majority of islanders here breakfast, lunch and dinner consists of rice and something else. KFC does not have biscuits, but has rice with all meals. We got to the line, avoided getting cut in front ofm and was greeted with "HI MA'AM-SIR!"... Suzy got some chicken and I ordered a local sausage platter called Longganisa and a Longganisa burger.
When ordering, whether it be McDonald's, KFC, or Jollibee (the Filipino equivalent to McDonald's--they are everywhere) there is a push to do everything as a value meal first and it is important to say ala carte for sandwich only. I said a la carte to the lady. She then put it in as a value meal with a drink much like the platter I had ordered. I tried to explain what I wanted and then suddenly, a very familiar glazed over look came upon the lady. We finally got things fixed and went to wait in line to pick up our order.
After a few minutes, the counter attendant approached us, "HI MA'AM-SIR! Longganisa burger take 10 minutes--ok?"
"No, not ok. I do not want then."
"5 minutes!"
What? One can barter with the prep time for cooking longganisa patties? Maybe I should hold out for 3 minutes.
"No, please remove."
"OK, Ma'am Sir."
We thought maybe she would reimburse us the 29 pesos (65 cents) for the burger, but I was incorrect. I guess that is the cost of not waiting 10 or 5 minutes.
We got home and of course mine was stone cold. Oh well. I like cold rice.
Could have been worse, at least they didn't give me two kinds of vitamin c there.
Thanks all, take care of yourselves.
Chuck
Doubleheader blog day!
Hi all! Thanks again to everyone for their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time for a lot of this country.
In the two and a half months here, I am now going through my second cold. This one coincided with running out of my vitamin supply I had brought from home so it was time to stock up. Vitamins, any medications like Tylenol, or cough syrup, condoms, and many other items are all held behind a counter here at either a drug store or the supermarket. For cold relief, per se, one tells the clerk their symptoms and they come back with pills.
I went out on a trip to do some errands... our condo doesn't have an actual oven, just a stove top and the toaster oven is adequate, but not overwhelming. So Suzy gave me a task to do some price shopping for toasters. I made out an index card with a checklist of the features we wanted and included space to take notes on each model from the different shops. Our current toaster cooks at 250 degrees Fahrenheit. We are wanting something with a little more power. Unfortunately, 250 was the high from what I could find. I traipsed all over the mall. If this was a Family Circus Comic PJ's footsteps would have been everywhere. Unfortunately, I was unable to provide any candidates for Suzy. Now that chore has been done, time to go vitamin shopping.
Due to surgery I had over a decade ago, I have been on a daily dose of children's chewable vitamins with extra vitamin C. Wal Mart had a good store brand, but in June it was off the shelves so I had been making do with Flintstones +C. I went the drug store counter of our local Robinson's Supermarket and replied to the obligatory "HI SIR!" with "Hi, Children's Chewable multi-vitamin plus vitamin C please?"
Granted before I got a chance to ask, I was cut in front of. This happens all the time and I really struggle with it. The people here do not think it is a big deal. They do not hold doors for people or thank one for holding the door. Little things I am adjusting to. The lady at the counter said, "Vitamin C?"
"Yes, Children's chewable vitamin plus Vitamin C."
"Yes sir."
The lady goes back and a few minute later comes back with two different bottles. I asked,"Do you have them combined?" The lady sported a glazed over look on her face and replied, "no, sir." So I shelled out the equivalent of $8 for what is usually 5 or 6 in the states. I took my vitamins and before going home decided to go over a block to a place by the cinemas and get a 32 ounce soda as those are a rarity over here. I got a coke light and took respite in an oversized chair in the food court. As I watched people head to see Thor at one of the 6 screens it is showing on, I looked at my new vitamins-- might as well dose up. To my surprise and dismay, I was sold Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C tablets (which taste just like St. Joseph Children's Aspirin) and Vitamin C gummies. I was not sold a multi-vitamin.
I crawled out of the comfortable chair and made the walk of shame over to Robinson's.
"HI SIR!"
"Children's Chewable vitamin, please?"
"Yes sir."
She was glazed over as ever and after a few minutes came back with a children's multi-vitamin. These were $8 by themselves. Yikes. However, at least I am stocked up for the next 60 days and do not have to worry about this again for awhile.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following morning Suzy got home from work and we decided to walk to KFC for breakfast. They have decent breakfast food. For the majority of islanders here breakfast, lunch and dinner consists of rice and something else. KFC does not have biscuits, but has rice with all meals. We got to the line, avoided getting cut in front ofm and was greeted with "HI MA'AM-SIR!"... Suzy got some chicken and I ordered a local sausage platter called Longganisa and a Longganisa burger.
When ordering, whether it be McDonald's, KFC, or Jollibee (the Filipino equivalent to McDonald's--they are everywhere) there is a push to do everything as a value meal first and it is important to say ala carte for sandwich only. I said a la carte to the lady. She then put it in as a value meal with a drink much like the platter I had ordered. I tried to explain what I wanted and then suddenly, a very familiar glazed over look came upon the lady. We finally got things fixed and went to wait in line to pick up our order.
After a few minutes, the counter attendant approached us, "HI MA'AM-SIR! Longganisa burger take 10 minutes--ok?"
"No, not ok. I do not want then."
"5 minutes!"
What? One can barter with the prep time for cooking longganisa patties? Maybe I should hold out for 3 minutes.
"No, please remove."
"OK, Ma'am Sir."
We thought maybe she would reimburse us the 29 pesos (65 cents) for the burger, but I was incorrect. I guess that is the cost of not waiting 10 or 5 minutes.
We got home and of course mine was stone cold. Oh well. I like cold rice.
Could have been worse, at least they didn't give me two kinds of vitamin c there.
Thanks all, take care of yourselves.
Chuck
Chilling in the Philippines--How to help victims of Haiyan
November 15, 2013
Good day all!
A lot of you have asked Suzy and I about how to help out here and that is very appreciated. We have been rounding up water bottles, canned goods and other essentials for a local drive. I know some of you have also already sent donations and that is great. I found a comprehensive list from the Christian Science Monitor with links to the different charities.
1. The International Committee of the Red Cross and the Philippine Red Cross are accepting donations and coordinating disaster relief on location. Follow the Philippine Red Cross on Facebook and Twitter for updates.
2. World Food Program, which delivers emergency food aid, is accepting donations online and through PayPal.
3. UNICEF Philippines is accepting donations online to provide children affected by the typhoon with drinkable water, hygiene supplies, food and shelter.
4. Catholic Relief Services aims to provide 100,000 families with shelter, water, sanitation, and essential living supplies. It is accepting donations online.
5. American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee is accepting online donations for addressing survivors’ immediate needs.
6. World Vision is accepting online donations to help 400,000 people meet the most urgent needs of food, clean water, and emergency shelter.
7. Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) is rushing personnel and supplies to provide medical care in the affected areas. It is accepting donations online.
8. The Salvation Army is on the ground meeting the immediate needs of survivors, providing food, water, and shelter. It is accepting donations online.
9. Caritas Manila, a Catholic charity, is accepting donations online and through wire transfers.
10. International Rescue Committee has mobilized an emergency response team to provide clean water and hygiene and sanitation supplies to survivors. It is accepting donations online.
11. Global Giving, a charity fundraising website, is accepting donations to its Typhoon Haiyan Relief Fund to support immediate relief and longer-term recovery.
Thank you all and take care of yourselves!
Chuck
Good day all!
A lot of you have asked Suzy and I about how to help out here and that is very appreciated. We have been rounding up water bottles, canned goods and other essentials for a local drive. I know some of you have also already sent donations and that is great. I found a comprehensive list from the Christian Science Monitor with links to the different charities.
1. The International Committee of the Red Cross and the Philippine Red Cross are accepting donations and coordinating disaster relief on location. Follow the Philippine Red Cross on Facebook and Twitter for updates.
2. World Food Program, which delivers emergency food aid, is accepting donations online and through PayPal.
3. UNICEF Philippines is accepting donations online to provide children affected by the typhoon with drinkable water, hygiene supplies, food and shelter.
4. Catholic Relief Services aims to provide 100,000 families with shelter, water, sanitation, and essential living supplies. It is accepting donations online.
5. American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee is accepting online donations for addressing survivors’ immediate needs.
6. World Vision is accepting online donations to help 400,000 people meet the most urgent needs of food, clean water, and emergency shelter.
7. Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) is rushing personnel and supplies to provide medical care in the affected areas. It is accepting donations online.
8. The Salvation Army is on the ground meeting the immediate needs of survivors, providing food, water, and shelter. It is accepting donations online.
9. Caritas Manila, a Catholic charity, is accepting donations online and through wire transfers.
10. International Rescue Committee has mobilized an emergency response team to provide clean water and hygiene and sanitation supplies to survivors. It is accepting donations online.
11. Global Giving, a charity fundraising website, is accepting donations to its Typhoon Haiyan Relief Fund to support immediate relief and longer-term recovery.
Thank you all and take care of yourselves!
Chuck
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--HAIYAN
November 09, 2013
WHEW what a long week. This was I guess a once in a lifetime experience, but I hope this is the only time.
Monday or so I saw that a Typhoon was on its way and the Philippines was in the path. Haiyan is the international name, locally she was called Yolanda. It looked as if Yolanda was going to go straight over central Philippines, which was already reeling from a 7.1 earthquake a few weeks ago.
Definition time--Per the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) "Hurricanes, cyclones, and typhoons are all the same weather phenomenon; we just use different names for these storms in different places. In the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, the term “hurricane” is used. The same type of disturbance in the Northwest Pacific is called a “typhoon” and “cyclones” occur in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean.
The ingredients for these storms include a pre-existing weather disturbance, warm tropical oceans, moisture, and relatively light winds. If the right conditions persist long enough, they can combine to produce the violent winds, incredible waves, torrential rains, and floods we associate with this phenomenon."
Now, living in Iowa most of my life, I know how to deal with storms. The sirens go off -- duck for cover. Big snow is coming (maybe it does, maybe it doesn't) set out the shovel. It is weird being in the path of the storm 3 days away that is so big that course is not changing a whole lot nor is it likely going to dissipate over the ocean. Suzy and I did our best guess on the path. We figured we were in the way, but not in immediate danger. Suzy, though had employees in Cebu who were more in the danger path... so she had to make sure they were all safe. Typhoons occur often (about 20 a year) and the locals do what they can to prepare. This isn't their first rodeo, even if this is the largest typhoon in history.
When snow is going to hit in Iowa, It is an all out media blitz. People run to the stores, stock up on supplies and generally act as if the apocalypse is upon us all. I am guilty. We may have a full freezer and pantry, but Holy heck-- we may be snowed in for TWO days so I better get to Hy-Vee and buy some bread, milk and water. Here-- nope. A lot of people get food for the day. I do a lot of daily shopping-- its easy when the grocery store is 100 yards away. But with the storm on its way-- No real difference. Just me, getting bread and water (can't trust the milk yet).
Thursday I stocked up and prepared for the rain... Now it rains often this time of year and without warning anyway. Dry season starts next month. But when it started raining I was prepared. The other typhoon that hit, Usagi (aka Odette) a month ago knocked power out a little and cable. It was a category 5. I was ready now. I had a flashlight holstered and made sure Vince was taken out so he wouldn't want to piddle during a deluge.
The rain was survivable and when I woke up Friday, Yolanda was announcing her presence with Authority. She was hammering the Central Islands. The storm was about 1200 miles long and massively wide so we were going to get some backlash. Friday day it drizzled and was just an eerie gray out all day. I took out Vinny around 430 and thank goodness as right after sporadic torrential rain would hit. It was like a wave... pouring rain... drizzle... poring rain... drizzle. Suzy left for work and the wind started whipping up. The rain stayed at a drizzle with 70 mph winds. It was unlike anything I had ever experienced.
We made it through the night... Vinny did not like the incessant rattling of the windows. Either did I, for that matter. Suzy got home and collectively I let out a HUGE sigh of relief. I knew the worst was probably over and we were all going to be fine...All of Suzy's employees were accounted for. The winds stayed crazy until about 5 pm and there were a couple periods of rain. 24 hours of extremely strong winds... No real damage-- some of the palm trees lost leaves, the lamppost by our balcony got a little tilty but it can be fixed. We really saw not a lot of local structural damage. Since this is a newer area, I am sure that the engineering to safeguard against mother nature played a huge role. We have not toured Manila yet to see how the other areas fared. From the looks on tv, not as well. We were lucky. I do want to thank EVERYONE for their thoughts and prayers. When Suzy accepted the move, we knew what we signed up for. I maybe didn't realize we would survive the strongest typhoon in history, but we thank everyone for taking a moment to check on us, to read our updates and to offer encouragement.
This certainly has been a life changing first couple months for me. One learns a lot about themselves when they are in an unfamiliar area experiencing new things. I've made a couple new friends and been able to see things that just aren't in Iowa. One of the servers from Fridays is moving to Canada. I was excited to tell him about snow and to dress warm. Literally he doesn't know what 59 degrees Fahrenheit feels like. Or snow. He will.
Thanks again everyone for your thoughts and prayers. our thoughts go to all of the locals who are coping with loss of loved one and/or loss of property. I hope we never have to live through something like that again, but if we do... I will be prepared.
WHEW what a long week. This was I guess a once in a lifetime experience, but I hope this is the only time.
Monday or so I saw that a Typhoon was on its way and the Philippines was in the path. Haiyan is the international name, locally she was called Yolanda. It looked as if Yolanda was going to go straight over central Philippines, which was already reeling from a 7.1 earthquake a few weeks ago.
Definition time--Per the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) "Hurricanes, cyclones, and typhoons are all the same weather phenomenon; we just use different names for these storms in different places. In the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, the term “hurricane” is used. The same type of disturbance in the Northwest Pacific is called a “typhoon” and “cyclones” occur in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean.
The ingredients for these storms include a pre-existing weather disturbance, warm tropical oceans, moisture, and relatively light winds. If the right conditions persist long enough, they can combine to produce the violent winds, incredible waves, torrential rains, and floods we associate with this phenomenon."
Now, living in Iowa most of my life, I know how to deal with storms. The sirens go off -- duck for cover. Big snow is coming (maybe it does, maybe it doesn't) set out the shovel. It is weird being in the path of the storm 3 days away that is so big that course is not changing a whole lot nor is it likely going to dissipate over the ocean. Suzy and I did our best guess on the path. We figured we were in the way, but not in immediate danger. Suzy, though had employees in Cebu who were more in the danger path... so she had to make sure they were all safe. Typhoons occur often (about 20 a year) and the locals do what they can to prepare. This isn't their first rodeo, even if this is the largest typhoon in history.
When snow is going to hit in Iowa, It is an all out media blitz. People run to the stores, stock up on supplies and generally act as if the apocalypse is upon us all. I am guilty. We may have a full freezer and pantry, but Holy heck-- we may be snowed in for TWO days so I better get to Hy-Vee and buy some bread, milk and water. Here-- nope. A lot of people get food for the day. I do a lot of daily shopping-- its easy when the grocery store is 100 yards away. But with the storm on its way-- No real difference. Just me, getting bread and water (can't trust the milk yet).
Thursday I stocked up and prepared for the rain... Now it rains often this time of year and without warning anyway. Dry season starts next month. But when it started raining I was prepared. The other typhoon that hit, Usagi (aka Odette) a month ago knocked power out a little and cable. It was a category 5. I was ready now. I had a flashlight holstered and made sure Vince was taken out so he wouldn't want to piddle during a deluge.
The rain was survivable and when I woke up Friday, Yolanda was announcing her presence with Authority. She was hammering the Central Islands. The storm was about 1200 miles long and massively wide so we were going to get some backlash. Friday day it drizzled and was just an eerie gray out all day. I took out Vinny around 430 and thank goodness as right after sporadic torrential rain would hit. It was like a wave... pouring rain... drizzle... poring rain... drizzle. Suzy left for work and the wind started whipping up. The rain stayed at a drizzle with 70 mph winds. It was unlike anything I had ever experienced.
We made it through the night... Vinny did not like the incessant rattling of the windows. Either did I, for that matter. Suzy got home and collectively I let out a HUGE sigh of relief. I knew the worst was probably over and we were all going to be fine...All of Suzy's employees were accounted for. The winds stayed crazy until about 5 pm and there were a couple periods of rain. 24 hours of extremely strong winds... No real damage-- some of the palm trees lost leaves, the lamppost by our balcony got a little tilty but it can be fixed. We really saw not a lot of local structural damage. Since this is a newer area, I am sure that the engineering to safeguard against mother nature played a huge role. We have not toured Manila yet to see how the other areas fared. From the looks on tv, not as well. We were lucky. I do want to thank EVERYONE for their thoughts and prayers. When Suzy accepted the move, we knew what we signed up for. I maybe didn't realize we would survive the strongest typhoon in history, but we thank everyone for taking a moment to check on us, to read our updates and to offer encouragement.
This certainly has been a life changing first couple months for me. One learns a lot about themselves when they are in an unfamiliar area experiencing new things. I've made a couple new friends and been able to see things that just aren't in Iowa. One of the servers from Fridays is moving to Canada. I was excited to tell him about snow and to dress warm. Literally he doesn't know what 59 degrees Fahrenheit feels like. Or snow. He will.
Thanks again everyone for your thoughts and prayers. our thoughts go to all of the locals who are coping with loss of loved one and/or loss of property. I hope we never have to live through something like that again, but if we do... I will be prepared.
Friday, November 1, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--At the Movies, Election Day, & the post office
November 01. 2013
Happy All Saints Day!
Hi everyone, hope you all are doing well...
Last Sunday Suzy and I went to see Gravity. In the states we probably went to 6 movies a year, so after being here 2 months, I guess we are on pace. Before reviewing the movie here are some tidbits on our experience. In the Philippines, going to the movies is like going to a ballgame. First, ticket purchasing means choosing your seats. Its not like the first come, first serve in the U.S. They have a seat chart on a monitor and one calls out the seat numbers they want. There are 7 screens in the Eastwood city complex. Screens 5-7 are by us in the 4th floor of the mall and the other 4 are in what is called the Citywalk across the street, also 4th floor. Gravity was at both screen 1 and screen 7 but the difference is Screen 7 is called ULTRA.
Let me tell you, ULTRA means ULTRA. Ive never been so pampered. Tickets were more; They were 400 pesos each. That's about 9 bucks. For 9 bucks... one gets: ticket, unlimited popcorn, unlimited soda. They had 4 different flavors of popcorn to choose from but buttered popcorn was an extra 10 pesos. I splurged. We walked in and I swear the hallelujah choir was playing. It was incredible; 7 rows of stadium seating featuring 10 huge leather recliners in groups of two. These werent seats that merely rocked, these were top of the line Lazy boy style. I kicked out the footrest and relaxed. Before the movie, the Philippine National Anthem played. That was interesting. I think the United States should do that.
Now, the movie-- well after like 10 future attractions. Gravity was intense. We were lower and reclined and it was like all the action was above us. Suzy and I both liked it. It had some twists and turns and both George Clooney and Sandra Bullock were stellar. Great film. The sights and sounds were so state of the art that I was drained after that. We got home and had no energy... We both gave it 4 stars out of 5.
I had so much fun Sunday, I decided Monday night to go see Escape plan starring Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. The late Mike Royko once wrote, "I never went to a John Wayne movie to find a philosphy to live by or to absorb a profound message. I went for the simple pleasure of spending a couple of hours seeing the bad guys lose." Thats like me with Arnold and Sly movies. Kick some butt, and have some fun. Now Sly does have a line that does have some symbolism for today-- he says that in escaping prison there's 3 things one needs: knowledge of the layout, knowledge of the routine, and help from the outside. One can parallel that to life. Enough philosophy... the movie was about escaping a max prison. It was classic action movie. 50 cent was good in it. The ending was abrupt. Other than that, it was exactly what I wished for. I give it 3 stars. It was in Theatre 4... across the street. It was more like what we see at the new theatres in the states. 200 seats that rocked back, and stadium seating. It was pick your own seat so I picked middle center. those tickets were 200 peso and did not include unlimited ammenities. No problem.
Before the movie on Monday, I went to Friday's to have a pre-movie beverage. The manager, Ces advised me that it was election day and there were no liquor sales during election day (or the day before). I had no idea. I like that. I didn't realize it was election day. We do not watch a ton of Filipino TV channels, but I hadn't seen one election commercial. Maybe they could do that in the U.S., too. In the streets of Quezon City and Manila, there were flyers with candidate pics everywhere, but nothing on tv. The flyers looked more like wanted posters. Because it was election day, all government offices were closed and we had received notice on Saturday that Customs had held up a package to us.
My folks and Suzy's friend Kristi both sent us packages 3 weeks ago. It was interesting that when it arrived, my Moms, which included a letter and a copy of the latest Packer Report made it and Kristi's (bills, refund checks, and a copy of Birds and Blooms Magazine) was held up. We have a favorite concierge in our building. His name is Ederick and although he doesn't speak a lot of English, he is quite helpful and cheerful. I enlisted him to flag a cab for me Tuesday AM and explain exactly where I needed to go. On a map, the Quezon City Post Office doesn't seem too far away. It's not far from Smart Araneta arena and I knew that was 20 minutes during brutal Friday traffic. Well Tuesday morning construction is bad, too. It was the longest cab ride I had been on and cost 197.50 pesos (5 bucks). A cab ride begins at 40 pesos. I had seen some poor parts of Manila but most of that was at night and in the rain. This was daytime and sunny. There were areas with glorified shantys everywhere. It was third world. Wow. makes me think.
We made it to the Post office and in true Amazing Race style, I asked the cabbie to wait for me so he could take me home. That post office was interesting. It looked like a fort, and not real big considering it serves millions of people. The ticket I had said to go to window 37. There were 39 windows and each had its own purpose. I went to window 37 and presented my ticket. They then sent me to Window 36 to pay 50 pesos as a pickup fee. Once paid, Window 36 sent me to Window 39 to pick up my package. We bought a couple cards to send back to the states and see how long it takes going the other way. Window 39 sent me to Window 14. Window 14 weighed the items and then I went to Window 15 to buy the stamps. Only 125 pesos total. not bad! Once stamps were purchased, they gave me a container with some putty in it to affix the stamps. Then Window 15 sent me to Window 21 to actually mail them. I felt like I was in a Bill Murray movie just bouncing from one Window to another. My cabbie was still there (Thank goodness) and we headed back. He made a little better time coming back (185 pesos) and I tipped him for his time.
It hasn't been raining as much now as we slowly transition to more of the dry season. Today though, right before Suzy was to go to work, the skies opened up... That will slow up her trip. I will be glad when those go away for the next 6 months. She was already having a tough day, her hair dryer blew up. I guess we get to go shopping for that tomorrow.
The Philippines do not roll their clocks back so central time now will be 14 hours behind us come Sunday. Mountain 15. Whew. It has been fun explaining that to the locals. That seems like a weird concept to them.
Well that is all for now... Take care of yourself everyone and talk to you soon!
Chuck
Happy All Saints Day!
Hi everyone, hope you all are doing well...
Last Sunday Suzy and I went to see Gravity. In the states we probably went to 6 movies a year, so after being here 2 months, I guess we are on pace. Before reviewing the movie here are some tidbits on our experience. In the Philippines, going to the movies is like going to a ballgame. First, ticket purchasing means choosing your seats. Its not like the first come, first serve in the U.S. They have a seat chart on a monitor and one calls out the seat numbers they want. There are 7 screens in the Eastwood city complex. Screens 5-7 are by us in the 4th floor of the mall and the other 4 are in what is called the Citywalk across the street, also 4th floor. Gravity was at both screen 1 and screen 7 but the difference is Screen 7 is called ULTRA.
Let me tell you, ULTRA means ULTRA. Ive never been so pampered. Tickets were more; They were 400 pesos each. That's about 9 bucks. For 9 bucks... one gets: ticket, unlimited popcorn, unlimited soda. They had 4 different flavors of popcorn to choose from but buttered popcorn was an extra 10 pesos. I splurged. We walked in and I swear the hallelujah choir was playing. It was incredible; 7 rows of stadium seating featuring 10 huge leather recliners in groups of two. These werent seats that merely rocked, these were top of the line Lazy boy style. I kicked out the footrest and relaxed. Before the movie, the Philippine National Anthem played. That was interesting. I think the United States should do that.
Now, the movie-- well after like 10 future attractions. Gravity was intense. We were lower and reclined and it was like all the action was above us. Suzy and I both liked it. It had some twists and turns and both George Clooney and Sandra Bullock were stellar. Great film. The sights and sounds were so state of the art that I was drained after that. We got home and had no energy... We both gave it 4 stars out of 5.
I had so much fun Sunday, I decided Monday night to go see Escape plan starring Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. The late Mike Royko once wrote, "I never went to a John Wayne movie to find a philosphy to live by or to absorb a profound message. I went for the simple pleasure of spending a couple of hours seeing the bad guys lose." Thats like me with Arnold and Sly movies. Kick some butt, and have some fun. Now Sly does have a line that does have some symbolism for today-- he says that in escaping prison there's 3 things one needs: knowledge of the layout, knowledge of the routine, and help from the outside. One can parallel that to life. Enough philosophy... the movie was about escaping a max prison. It was classic action movie. 50 cent was good in it. The ending was abrupt. Other than that, it was exactly what I wished for. I give it 3 stars. It was in Theatre 4... across the street. It was more like what we see at the new theatres in the states. 200 seats that rocked back, and stadium seating. It was pick your own seat so I picked middle center. those tickets were 200 peso and did not include unlimited ammenities. No problem.
Before the movie on Monday, I went to Friday's to have a pre-movie beverage. The manager, Ces advised me that it was election day and there were no liquor sales during election day (or the day before). I had no idea. I like that. I didn't realize it was election day. We do not watch a ton of Filipino TV channels, but I hadn't seen one election commercial. Maybe they could do that in the U.S., too. In the streets of Quezon City and Manila, there were flyers with candidate pics everywhere, but nothing on tv. The flyers looked more like wanted posters. Because it was election day, all government offices were closed and we had received notice on Saturday that Customs had held up a package to us.
My folks and Suzy's friend Kristi both sent us packages 3 weeks ago. It was interesting that when it arrived, my Moms, which included a letter and a copy of the latest Packer Report made it and Kristi's (bills, refund checks, and a copy of Birds and Blooms Magazine) was held up. We have a favorite concierge in our building. His name is Ederick and although he doesn't speak a lot of English, he is quite helpful and cheerful. I enlisted him to flag a cab for me Tuesday AM and explain exactly where I needed to go. On a map, the Quezon City Post Office doesn't seem too far away. It's not far from Smart Araneta arena and I knew that was 20 minutes during brutal Friday traffic. Well Tuesday morning construction is bad, too. It was the longest cab ride I had been on and cost 197.50 pesos (5 bucks). A cab ride begins at 40 pesos. I had seen some poor parts of Manila but most of that was at night and in the rain. This was daytime and sunny. There were areas with glorified shantys everywhere. It was third world. Wow. makes me think.
We made it to the Post office and in true Amazing Race style, I asked the cabbie to wait for me so he could take me home. That post office was interesting. It looked like a fort, and not real big considering it serves millions of people. The ticket I had said to go to window 37. There were 39 windows and each had its own purpose. I went to window 37 and presented my ticket. They then sent me to Window 36 to pay 50 pesos as a pickup fee. Once paid, Window 36 sent me to Window 39 to pick up my package. We bought a couple cards to send back to the states and see how long it takes going the other way. Window 39 sent me to Window 14. Window 14 weighed the items and then I went to Window 15 to buy the stamps. Only 125 pesos total. not bad! Once stamps were purchased, they gave me a container with some putty in it to affix the stamps. Then Window 15 sent me to Window 21 to actually mail them. I felt like I was in a Bill Murray movie just bouncing from one Window to another. My cabbie was still there (Thank goodness) and we headed back. He made a little better time coming back (185 pesos) and I tipped him for his time.
It hasn't been raining as much now as we slowly transition to more of the dry season. Today though, right before Suzy was to go to work, the skies opened up... That will slow up her trip. I will be glad when those go away for the next 6 months. She was already having a tough day, her hair dryer blew up. I guess we get to go shopping for that tomorrow.
The Philippines do not roll their clocks back so central time now will be 14 hours behind us come Sunday. Mountain 15. Whew. It has been fun explaining that to the locals. That seems like a weird concept to them.
Well that is all for now... Take care of yourself everyone and talk to you soon!
Chuck
I
never went to a John Wayne movie to find a philosophy to live by or to
absorb a profound message. I went for the simple pleasure of spending a
couple of hours seeing the bad guys lose.
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/m/mike_royko.html#LvhWmKAvoS3x1zTh.99
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/m/mike_royko.html#LvhWmKAvoS3x1zTh.99
I
never went to a John Wayne movie to find a philosophy to live by or to
absorb a profound message. I went for the simple pleasure of spending a
couple of hours seeing the bad guys lose.
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/m/mike_royko.html#LvhWmKAvoS3x1zTh.99
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/m/mike_royko.html#LvhWmKAvoS3x1zTh.99
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--What I have learned here the last 2 months
October 27, 2013
2 months in! Here are some musings of what I have learned: Some of this is new-- some review.
Kit Kats are sold here, but they are not called Kit Kat Bars. They are called Fingers. One can buy a 4 finger Kit Kat or a 2 Finger Kit Kat.
I had never drank formaldehyde before until I started drinking the local beers.
Getting a work permit through Wells Fargo Solutions is an arduous, tedious and potentially fruitless process.
No AC in the gym=the United States Next Fitness craze-- Hotter than Hell Fitness.
For 100,000 people in this 3 block by 5 block area I see hardly any pregnant women. I used to see 5 at work before 9 am... I think I have seen 2 in two months.
People are generally friendly... but thats it... then they clam up.
I still keep clicking the remote as if I have DVR-- not sure how long the premature clicking will continue.
Having 20 US channels tops amongst 80 or so sure makes me appreciate what we do have... and at Least American Pickers is on-- albeit called The Pickers. (Must be a foreign thing)
A Quarter Pounder with Cheese here is called---A Quarter Pounder with Cheese
I was addicted to American Cheese.
Flying 18 hours or so to get here causes a heck of a lot of jet lag.
Being twice the size of most everyone here... I know how C3PO felt when the Ewoks thought he was the "Golden One" --- I guess by all of the repeated stares that makes me "The great big one"
The local meat department has all of its meat in open air. we still can't bring ourselves to order from there.
The Countdown to Christmas and nonstop music begins about September 21.
There are no holiday songs... no "Winter wonderland" --- all songs are about Christmas.
One can tell how much English a Filipino knows easily: Talk for more than 15 seconds, if their eyes do not glaze over, they are well versed in English and know what you are saying. If they off in another world... Not much English, and time to breakout the slow talk and hand signals (that make no sense to them either).
They do not have a big enough rotation of songs that are blasted here on the hour most every day set to the fountains. There is only so much of the Glee cast singing 'Don't stop believin" a guy can take.
Hearing my Mom's voice on the phone following moving here= sweetest sounds Ive heard.
Taxi drivers aren't exactly bad drivers; they are good drivers that are well versed in crazy driving they like to cut in front as much as possible...
and getting cut in front of in a line is quite common... They do not even realize its bad. They view it as their culture. Thats who they are... Cutters.
I'd be a millionaire if I had a 100 pesos for every time I have been asked "Is your wife Filipina?" Granted its when I am out on the town and they have not met Suzy, but still I guess its their way of asking, "So why again are two white people in our country?"
Movie theatres are awesome. 10 bucks gets you in, unlimited soda and popcorn. They have Lazy Boys for seats and state of the art sound. I can get used to that.
Want to spark a riot, Give away free stuff. doesn't matter what-- it could be dental floss... A riot is about to occur.
To get ones attention and draw you in their store or restaurant, employees will yell, "morning sir!" or "morning ma'am!" if we are both walking-- then its "Morning Ma'amsir!"
Buying ham from a market vendor who is asleep is a tricky venture.
When its the outdoor food market and you are the biggest person, all vendors expect you to buy... A lot.
there are signs all over in the commons that say NO PEE or POOP ZONE and NO SMOKING. All I ever see is dog crap on the ground and cigarette Butts. Time to put those in different languages...
Swimming in a pool that isn't full of chlorine is great... until the moment you realize there is no chlorine and 10 kids got out of the pool before you got in.
An addition by Suzy: When they say "it rains everyday" they really mean-- "It rains every effing day."
Having no winter means co-habitating with larger than life bugs. we got scared by a big bug in the elevator today-- I half hid behind Suzy.
Getting mail takes 3 weeks... sometimes it comes through, sometimes one has to go to the post office because Customs opened it.
Writing a blog about this is a blast.
Take care, everyone
Chuck and Suzy
2 months in! Here are some musings of what I have learned: Some of this is new-- some review.
Kit Kats are sold here, but they are not called Kit Kat Bars. They are called Fingers. One can buy a 4 finger Kit Kat or a 2 Finger Kit Kat.
I had never drank formaldehyde before until I started drinking the local beers.
Getting a work permit through Wells Fargo Solutions is an arduous, tedious and potentially fruitless process.
No AC in the gym=the United States Next Fitness craze-- Hotter than Hell Fitness.
For 100,000 people in this 3 block by 5 block area I see hardly any pregnant women. I used to see 5 at work before 9 am... I think I have seen 2 in two months.
People are generally friendly... but thats it... then they clam up.
I still keep clicking the remote as if I have DVR-- not sure how long the premature clicking will continue.
Having 20 US channels tops amongst 80 or so sure makes me appreciate what we do have... and at Least American Pickers is on-- albeit called The Pickers. (Must be a foreign thing)
A Quarter Pounder with Cheese here is called---A Quarter Pounder with Cheese
I was addicted to American Cheese.
Flying 18 hours or so to get here causes a heck of a lot of jet lag.
Being twice the size of most everyone here... I know how C3PO felt when the Ewoks thought he was the "Golden One" --- I guess by all of the repeated stares that makes me "The great big one"
The local meat department has all of its meat in open air. we still can't bring ourselves to order from there.
The Countdown to Christmas and nonstop music begins about September 21.
There are no holiday songs... no "Winter wonderland" --- all songs are about Christmas.
One can tell how much English a Filipino knows easily: Talk for more than 15 seconds, if their eyes do not glaze over, they are well versed in English and know what you are saying. If they off in another world... Not much English, and time to breakout the slow talk and hand signals (that make no sense to them either).
They do not have a big enough rotation of songs that are blasted here on the hour most every day set to the fountains. There is only so much of the Glee cast singing 'Don't stop believin" a guy can take.
Hearing my Mom's voice on the phone following moving here= sweetest sounds Ive heard.
Taxi drivers aren't exactly bad drivers; they are good drivers that are well versed in crazy driving they like to cut in front as much as possible...
and getting cut in front of in a line is quite common... They do not even realize its bad. They view it as their culture. Thats who they are... Cutters.
I'd be a millionaire if I had a 100 pesos for every time I have been asked "Is your wife Filipina?" Granted its when I am out on the town and they have not met Suzy, but still I guess its their way of asking, "So why again are two white people in our country?"
Movie theatres are awesome. 10 bucks gets you in, unlimited soda and popcorn. They have Lazy Boys for seats and state of the art sound. I can get used to that.
Want to spark a riot, Give away free stuff. doesn't matter what-- it could be dental floss... A riot is about to occur.
To get ones attention and draw you in their store or restaurant, employees will yell, "morning sir!" or "morning ma'am!" if we are both walking-- then its "Morning Ma'amsir!"
Buying ham from a market vendor who is asleep is a tricky venture.
When its the outdoor food market and you are the biggest person, all vendors expect you to buy... A lot.
there are signs all over in the commons that say NO PEE or POOP ZONE and NO SMOKING. All I ever see is dog crap on the ground and cigarette Butts. Time to put those in different languages...
Swimming in a pool that isn't full of chlorine is great... until the moment you realize there is no chlorine and 10 kids got out of the pool before you got in.
An addition by Suzy: When they say "it rains everyday" they really mean-- "It rains every effing day."
Having no winter means co-habitating with larger than life bugs. we got scared by a big bug in the elevator today-- I half hid behind Suzy.
Getting mail takes 3 weeks... sometimes it comes through, sometimes one has to go to the post office because Customs opened it.
Writing a blog about this is a blast.
Take care, everyone
Chuck and Suzy
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--Comedy Cartel and Gin Blossoms
October 24, 2013
Good day everyone!
One of the nice things here in Eastwood city is that there are always things to do. Friday-Sunday there is a farmer's market at the mall. vendors are there from 11AM-10 PM. They've had foreign food sampling days, chocolate festivals, shoe sale blowouts, and we are in the middle of Oktoberfest. Each Thursday is called Thirstday with drink specials on import beers. Fridays there are events and the excellent outdoor food vendors. Those foodies are there from 8 pm-3am.
To envision Eastwood City, think of a 3 block by 5 block area filled with 40 story buildings. Split that down the middle. We are on one side, with the mall, the Bellagio-esque fountains, some hotels and a few corporations like Dell and IBM. Occasionally they set up an enclosed stage by the fountains for small concerts and events such as a "Pet Blessing"... On the other side is more businesses, restaurants and a larger open area that a stage is put up for a concert every Tuesday. This is where they have had huge shoe sales and the Oktoberfest events are here, where 10 local vendors sell beer and food. TGI Fridays, my hangout, is literally just across the street. It is nice to have a hangout 200 feet from our condo.
Last Friday, as an Oktoberfest event, they brought in a comedy troupe called Comedy Cartel. The billboard advised they were the innovators of "point of view" comedy here in the Philippines... As one who has been dabbling in comedy since 2004 and have been a member of a "troupe" I was intrigued. I know how hard it is to perform as a standup with 4 others and to do it in a festival setting where ages range from 5-70.
The first comedian got onstage-- I cannot tell you much of his humor... it was all in Tagalog. He must've done one joke on Dora the Explorer since in the midst of his ramblings he said "Swiper no swipey".
Second comedian, spoke English... I appreciate that... I guess point of view humor is like our observational humor,,, Jokes are like "You ever notice how our rivers are polluted?" He did do a joke about the Karate Kid. I take it that is new around here...He had some funny things-- one thing I noticed, was that he talked about old people in their 60s using canes and being OLD. Much like we might talk about being in our 80s or 90s. Well it was pointed out to me that the average age people live to here is 68... scary that it is 16 years less than an American.
3rd comedian... I cannot tell you a whole lot about. he wasn't funny... to me at least. and I was ordering another round of Bavaria beer for me at my table of 1.
4th Comedian... He had some good stuff. I liked it and was laughing out loud. In general he was struggling as people all over were talking. #1 no-no-- there was tons of table talk everywhere, but thats what happens at these festivals... you have these walkers "driving by" others who are there just to drink, and some who just do not care, I was feeling for this guy so I did my best Marc Von Ahnen impression and let out some good loud laughs. I also tried to be vocal when the comedian asked questions. He then spotted me and started asking me questions. I dig it, it works for me. He wants to bring in an American to the act... He wasn't being malicious and it allowed him to get the audience's attention... He had moved on from me, but every time he started losing the audience he came back to me to reel everyone in...
There were at least 1 or 2 more comedians left, but I decided to go to Fridays which is at the entrance to this open area. The 5th comedian was speaking mainly Tagalog and the crowd was becoming increasingly inattentive. Time to hang at Fridays...There I met a guy originally from Australia but now in Katmandu... There are tons of world travelers and it is interesting to hear everyone's experiences. One bonus, I have become friends with the manager, Ces, and she rewarded my repeat business with a free meal certificate if I take a survey.... DONE.
Monday night at Smart Araneta Coliseum was a concert. Sugar Ray, Smashmouth and Gin Blossoms. Tickets were outrageous (even by Filipino standards). Gin Blossoms, though, came here Tuesday, for free. The crews set up the stage all Monday night. Here, there is no down time or even quiet hours. It is always go time. On Tuesday night I made the decision to check out the concert. Unfortunately Suzy had to work. I could have watched everything from the condo, but thought... heck how often does a decent 90s band come down and play right beside where I live?
Seating was only about 150 with barricades around. So one could stand literally 50 feet away to the side and see a free concert (or sit on their balcony) or they could pay 500 Pesos (about 11 bucks) for a greatest hits cd. This got one inside the barricades and a meet and greet with the band. The concert was to start at 630. I got there about 615 and took a seat near the back. In the background playing was the greatest hits CD. They were about 35 minutes late starting, so I got to hear most of all their songs prior to hearing... their songs.
The Played 5 songs (4 and a 1 song encore)-- which it was essentially free so that was cool by me...I knew the words to the songs as not a lot of others did. I didn't mind clapping along. The rest of the crowd had to be coached. They did not play my favorite song of theirs which is "found out about you"... That was interesting. 2 years ago Suzy and I went to Michael Buble and he was a great musician. It was good. Problem is for me, he didn't play "moondance" which is the song that introduced me to him and I think one of his better renditions. For the money paid, I was disappointed. 4 years ago I saw Cowboy Mouth at a bar in DSM and they didn't play a song I requested... that was a huge disappointment after paying good cover to that. So this was tough... they didnt play my song but it was essentially free. I am giving Gin Blossoms a pass. Plus there was a meet and Greet. One was not allowed to have pics taken with the band, but they did allow smalltalk and handshakes.
Speaking with the 3 members that were there, Jesse (guitar), Scotty (guitar) and Robin (vocals) was awesome. I talked about being from Iowa and Scotty mentioned that his parents met at Drake University. That is a small world... They were quite personable and very hospitable with the masses... I appreciate that. They were able to have a connection with each of us. They didn't have to do that. It meant a lot to me. It is something I try to do with folks at Comedy shows or fans at Roller Derby. I feel it is always important to have time for those taking time out of their schedules. I know how busy those schedules are.
After the show, I went and had dinner at Fridays (Using my free meal certificate from Ces) --- I sat next to an older guy from the Miami area who had just married a younger Filipina that day... We see a lot of that... a table over was another such couple and it was amusing to hear couple number one bagging on the age of the gal in couple number two... good times!
Well that is all for now. Take care everyone,
Chuck U.
P.S. Next Blog: What I have learned in the last 2 months here in the Philippines
Good day everyone!
One of the nice things here in Eastwood city is that there are always things to do. Friday-Sunday there is a farmer's market at the mall. vendors are there from 11AM-10 PM. They've had foreign food sampling days, chocolate festivals, shoe sale blowouts, and we are in the middle of Oktoberfest. Each Thursday is called Thirstday with drink specials on import beers. Fridays there are events and the excellent outdoor food vendors. Those foodies are there from 8 pm-3am.
To envision Eastwood City, think of a 3 block by 5 block area filled with 40 story buildings. Split that down the middle. We are on one side, with the mall, the Bellagio-esque fountains, some hotels and a few corporations like Dell and IBM. Occasionally they set up an enclosed stage by the fountains for small concerts and events such as a "Pet Blessing"... On the other side is more businesses, restaurants and a larger open area that a stage is put up for a concert every Tuesday. This is where they have had huge shoe sales and the Oktoberfest events are here, where 10 local vendors sell beer and food. TGI Fridays, my hangout, is literally just across the street. It is nice to have a hangout 200 feet from our condo.
Last Friday, as an Oktoberfest event, they brought in a comedy troupe called Comedy Cartel. The billboard advised they were the innovators of "point of view" comedy here in the Philippines... As one who has been dabbling in comedy since 2004 and have been a member of a "troupe" I was intrigued. I know how hard it is to perform as a standup with 4 others and to do it in a festival setting where ages range from 5-70.
The first comedian got onstage-- I cannot tell you much of his humor... it was all in Tagalog. He must've done one joke on Dora the Explorer since in the midst of his ramblings he said "Swiper no swipey".
Second comedian, spoke English... I appreciate that... I guess point of view humor is like our observational humor,,, Jokes are like "You ever notice how our rivers are polluted?" He did do a joke about the Karate Kid. I take it that is new around here...He had some funny things-- one thing I noticed, was that he talked about old people in their 60s using canes and being OLD. Much like we might talk about being in our 80s or 90s. Well it was pointed out to me that the average age people live to here is 68... scary that it is 16 years less than an American.
3rd comedian... I cannot tell you a whole lot about. he wasn't funny... to me at least. and I was ordering another round of Bavaria beer for me at my table of 1.
4th Comedian... He had some good stuff. I liked it and was laughing out loud. In general he was struggling as people all over were talking. #1 no-no-- there was tons of table talk everywhere, but thats what happens at these festivals... you have these walkers "driving by" others who are there just to drink, and some who just do not care, I was feeling for this guy so I did my best Marc Von Ahnen impression and let out some good loud laughs. I also tried to be vocal when the comedian asked questions. He then spotted me and started asking me questions. I dig it, it works for me. He wants to bring in an American to the act... He wasn't being malicious and it allowed him to get the audience's attention... He had moved on from me, but every time he started losing the audience he came back to me to reel everyone in...
There were at least 1 or 2 more comedians left, but I decided to go to Fridays which is at the entrance to this open area. The 5th comedian was speaking mainly Tagalog and the crowd was becoming increasingly inattentive. Time to hang at Fridays...There I met a guy originally from Australia but now in Katmandu... There are tons of world travelers and it is interesting to hear everyone's experiences. One bonus, I have become friends with the manager, Ces, and she rewarded my repeat business with a free meal certificate if I take a survey.... DONE.
Monday night at Smart Araneta Coliseum was a concert. Sugar Ray, Smashmouth and Gin Blossoms. Tickets were outrageous (even by Filipino standards). Gin Blossoms, though, came here Tuesday, for free. The crews set up the stage all Monday night. Here, there is no down time or even quiet hours. It is always go time. On Tuesday night I made the decision to check out the concert. Unfortunately Suzy had to work. I could have watched everything from the condo, but thought... heck how often does a decent 90s band come down and play right beside where I live?
Seating was only about 150 with barricades around. So one could stand literally 50 feet away to the side and see a free concert (or sit on their balcony) or they could pay 500 Pesos (about 11 bucks) for a greatest hits cd. This got one inside the barricades and a meet and greet with the band. The concert was to start at 630. I got there about 615 and took a seat near the back. In the background playing was the greatest hits CD. They were about 35 minutes late starting, so I got to hear most of all their songs prior to hearing... their songs.
The Played 5 songs (4 and a 1 song encore)-- which it was essentially free so that was cool by me...I knew the words to the songs as not a lot of others did. I didn't mind clapping along. The rest of the crowd had to be coached. They did not play my favorite song of theirs which is "found out about you"... That was interesting. 2 years ago Suzy and I went to Michael Buble and he was a great musician. It was good. Problem is for me, he didn't play "moondance" which is the song that introduced me to him and I think one of his better renditions. For the money paid, I was disappointed. 4 years ago I saw Cowboy Mouth at a bar in DSM and they didn't play a song I requested... that was a huge disappointment after paying good cover to that. So this was tough... they didnt play my song but it was essentially free. I am giving Gin Blossoms a pass. Plus there was a meet and Greet. One was not allowed to have pics taken with the band, but they did allow smalltalk and handshakes.
Speaking with the 3 members that were there, Jesse (guitar), Scotty (guitar) and Robin (vocals) was awesome. I talked about being from Iowa and Scotty mentioned that his parents met at Drake University. That is a small world... They were quite personable and very hospitable with the masses... I appreciate that. They were able to have a connection with each of us. They didn't have to do that. It meant a lot to me. It is something I try to do with folks at Comedy shows or fans at Roller Derby. I feel it is always important to have time for those taking time out of their schedules. I know how busy those schedules are.
After the show, I went and had dinner at Fridays (Using my free meal certificate from Ces) --- I sat next to an older guy from the Miami area who had just married a younger Filipina that day... We see a lot of that... a table over was another such couple and it was amusing to hear couple number one bagging on the age of the gal in couple number two... good times!
Well that is all for now. Take care everyone,
Chuck U.
P.S. Next Blog: What I have learned in the last 2 months here in the Philippines
Friday, October 18, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines-- Banking, haircut, shoe shopping and more!
October 18, 2013
Good day, my friends... TGIF!
Today's adventure... Pay rent, get a haircut, try shopping for shoes again and pick up lunch for Suzy.
Banking is interesting here in the Philippines. to get a checking account, one must live here 6 months... so we just have savings accounts. That does make it tough when trying to pay bills. Since I do not have employment yet... one of my main tasks is paying bills. A lot of bills (cable, internet, phone) can be paid at the Bank. The bank we use to pay bills is always busy... Today I have to pay rent and until we get a checking account... our landlord lets us go to the bank and just deposit into her account. So, I gathered the account info I needed and ran to the bank... There are two armed guards at the front of the bank that do a pat down/bag inspection before one is allowed to enter. Once in they have lines for single or multiple transactions... I was # 12 in single transaction line... Line moved fast today... I was in line 30 minutes... the deposit was smooth... and 2 minutes later I was out... Smoothest transaction at a bank so far...
Haircut time... There aren't a ton of places where a guy can go for a haircut around here. I hadn't had one since arriving so I found a place called GQ Barber shop. It is full service. Now... although back home I use Sport Clips, a traditional barber shop is what I grew up on in Newton. Since I was 4 the Rialto Barber Shop in Newton was where I got my ears lowered. Kendall, Joe, Karla... they took care of me for decades... They knew what the "usual" haircut was. As I walked into GQ, I hoped for a place like that... I was not disappointed. First-- the price for a haircut is 170 pesos (4 bucks). That is awesome. I told the barber what I wanted and he did it. Haircut also included a neck and shoulder massage. I appreciated that he used a straight razor on my neck and side burns... Unlike the Rialto, or Sport Clips, there was absolutely no conversation, which was weird. None of the barbers were talking. I am not used to that. When it was all said and done... I tipped 30 pesos (recommended by them... about 75 cents) and was on my way.
Shoe shopping time... When I came over here I only brought one pair of shoes for everyday, flip flops for the pool and 1 pair dress shoes. I decided I needed another pair for working out. In case you didn't see my experience from last night posted on facebook... here is my synopsis:
"Reebok here is having a sale. Id like to get help with shoes but the staff keeps bypassing me as if invisible im only customer. .. so... im just going to stand here"
I finally did get assistance last night... shoes are tough to buy for me here-- I am size 13. There is nothing my size except for basketball shoes... I found what I wanted but didn't buy. I decided to talk it over with Suzy and then go today. I did check Adidas first. It must be how things with shoe stores work as they just left me hanging, too. This time they just stood behind me and spoke in their native tongue. I finally asked for help; They also did not have anything my size, plus their basketball shoe designs are too crazy... even for me... I then trekked back to Reebok. The same staff was there from last night and very attentive this time... Interesting... I haven't had basketball shoes in 20 years... Bonus-- the shoes were 200 pesos cheaper today than last night. 1800 down from 2000... SCORE!
Suzy wanted lunch from a place called Bon Chon... Allegedly they are in the states, too but I had never eaten there before we got to Quezon City. It is best described as Korean cuisine, I would say... kimchi... chapchae... fish and chicken dishes. Chapchae is one of my favorite things Ive discovered since coming over. It is a basic noodle dish... tasty. I got Suzy some chicken; chapchae and a fish taco for me... and on my way. We do like carry out from places as we do not have to worry about the lack of service at sit down restaurants. We are both craving a good tenderloin or BBQ... That also is nowhere to be found around here.
Tonight-- I am going to see some comedy here in the park they are providing as part of Oktoberfest entertainment. I am interested to see what the humor is like over here... Comedy Cartel is the name of the group. There is also a food market going on there so I am not sure what I will try... Pig ears? squid on a stick? chicken intestines? I might go more traditional... There is still a guy always yelling... U.S. ROAST BEEFFFFFFF, U.S. TURKEYYYYYYYYY.... Maybe I will try that. Turkey is hard to find here. Not sure what we will do for thanksgiving. Afterwards... I will probably hang out at TGI Fridays... The basketball players like to hang there after games and game 4 of the play-offs is tonight.
Have a great weekend everyone and take care!
Chuck U.
Good day, my friends... TGIF!
Today's adventure... Pay rent, get a haircut, try shopping for shoes again and pick up lunch for Suzy.
Banking is interesting here in the Philippines. to get a checking account, one must live here 6 months... so we just have savings accounts. That does make it tough when trying to pay bills. Since I do not have employment yet... one of my main tasks is paying bills. A lot of bills (cable, internet, phone) can be paid at the Bank. The bank we use to pay bills is always busy... Today I have to pay rent and until we get a checking account... our landlord lets us go to the bank and just deposit into her account. So, I gathered the account info I needed and ran to the bank... There are two armed guards at the front of the bank that do a pat down/bag inspection before one is allowed to enter. Once in they have lines for single or multiple transactions... I was # 12 in single transaction line... Line moved fast today... I was in line 30 minutes... the deposit was smooth... and 2 minutes later I was out... Smoothest transaction at a bank so far...
Haircut time... There aren't a ton of places where a guy can go for a haircut around here. I hadn't had one since arriving so I found a place called GQ Barber shop. It is full service. Now... although back home I use Sport Clips, a traditional barber shop is what I grew up on in Newton. Since I was 4 the Rialto Barber Shop in Newton was where I got my ears lowered. Kendall, Joe, Karla... they took care of me for decades... They knew what the "usual" haircut was. As I walked into GQ, I hoped for a place like that... I was not disappointed. First-- the price for a haircut is 170 pesos (4 bucks). That is awesome. I told the barber what I wanted and he did it. Haircut also included a neck and shoulder massage. I appreciated that he used a straight razor on my neck and side burns... Unlike the Rialto, or Sport Clips, there was absolutely no conversation, which was weird. None of the barbers were talking. I am not used to that. When it was all said and done... I tipped 30 pesos (recommended by them... about 75 cents) and was on my way.
Shoe shopping time... When I came over here I only brought one pair of shoes for everyday, flip flops for the pool and 1 pair dress shoes. I decided I needed another pair for working out. In case you didn't see my experience from last night posted on facebook... here is my synopsis:
"Reebok here is having a sale. Id like to get help with shoes but the staff keeps bypassing me as if invisible im only customer. .. so... im just going to stand here"
I finally did get assistance last night... shoes are tough to buy for me here-- I am size 13. There is nothing my size except for basketball shoes... I found what I wanted but didn't buy. I decided to talk it over with Suzy and then go today. I did check Adidas first. It must be how things with shoe stores work as they just left me hanging, too. This time they just stood behind me and spoke in their native tongue. I finally asked for help; They also did not have anything my size, plus their basketball shoe designs are too crazy... even for me... I then trekked back to Reebok. The same staff was there from last night and very attentive this time... Interesting... I haven't had basketball shoes in 20 years... Bonus-- the shoes were 200 pesos cheaper today than last night. 1800 down from 2000... SCORE!
Suzy wanted lunch from a place called Bon Chon... Allegedly they are in the states, too but I had never eaten there before we got to Quezon City. It is best described as Korean cuisine, I would say... kimchi... chapchae... fish and chicken dishes. Chapchae is one of my favorite things Ive discovered since coming over. It is a basic noodle dish... tasty. I got Suzy some chicken; chapchae and a fish taco for me... and on my way. We do like carry out from places as we do not have to worry about the lack of service at sit down restaurants. We are both craving a good tenderloin or BBQ... That also is nowhere to be found around here.
Tonight-- I am going to see some comedy here in the park they are providing as part of Oktoberfest entertainment. I am interested to see what the humor is like over here... Comedy Cartel is the name of the group. There is also a food market going on there so I am not sure what I will try... Pig ears? squid on a stick? chicken intestines? I might go more traditional... There is still a guy always yelling... U.S. ROAST BEEFFFFFFF, U.S. TURKEYYYYYYYYY.... Maybe I will try that. Turkey is hard to find here. Not sure what we will do for thanksgiving. Afterwards... I will probably hang out at TGI Fridays... The basketball players like to hang there after games and game 4 of the play-offs is tonight.
Have a great weekend everyone and take care!
Chuck U.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--Random Stuff
October 16, 2013
I am sitting here watching Game 3 of the Philippines Basketball Association (PBA) Governors Cup Finals and thought it would be a good time to write some more. Not to mention, its raining...
First... Major thoughts and prayers to all affected in the Philippines by the earthquake yesterday. Over 100 have died and I am sure that number will sadly increase. Suzy's employer, Cognizant, has a call center down there that was affected. She was supposed to be there a couple weeks ago. She will be heading there most likely in a week or two... Puts things in perspective...
MORE RAIN-- Last night we had a MAJOR storm, which led to a power outage... Power didnt come on until 3 this morning. The only negative was that the condo got steamy... I am on floor 7. I wonder what floor 28 was like. It was 31 celsius in the condo (86 fahrenheit). That rain was intense.
Taho-- Saturday we tried some stuff called Taho. Its a local treat served hot... It can be best described as a Malt O Meal tasting concoction with little tapioca balls in it like a bubble tea. There is a street vendor by Suzy who serves it and she said that version is better... and less expensive... Granted we spent 35 Pesos on the one we got (75 cents).
Local Tax... Tax on items purchased is weird. 12%... but it is not assessed on items up front. So like when we bought our phones... they were 8,000 pesos each but actually 960 pesos for tax was built into that price... There are signs everywhere saying we have to save all our receipts and it is against the law for a business to not give you a receipt. Im not sure what all this means when we have to pay taxes here ... but we are saving everything.
Taxi service-- I made a friend who is a trainer for the San Mig basketball team. He moved from Portland to here 4 years ago and was helping me with the differences in lifestyle. He advised me of 2 common scams for taxis... Literally, there seems like a million taxis. They are everywhere... most are reputable, some are not. 1st scam... the driver doesnt turn on his meter and just negotiates a deal... That has happened to Suzy once or twice and me twice... I negotiated both times as once it was pouring rain and the other time we had to go during rush hour... My friend Todd advised to stand firm and make them use the meter and then negotiate a tip on top of it. A cab ride is literally 4 bucks and it is easy over here to get caught up in "whats another dollar" but Todd explained it is spoiling them and making it tougher... Second scam... His wife and kids were nearly victim... Cabbie says that he can't go further and to go to next cab--which is a buddy in on the scam. Monday on my way into Manila the cabbie tried to pull that on me... he couldnt go there-- but his friend could in the next cab... I just got out, thanked them all... and kept stepping to a couple cabs down... Each cab ride was 165 pesos (four bucks) and I rounded to 180 (30 cent tip) which seems low, but that is what the standard is.
Tipping in general... I have taken some clothes in to get a button sewn on (50 cents) and that place has a sign that strictly says NO TIPPING. Other restaurants build 10% onto the bill and then we round up like with taxis... Bouncers at the local bar -- the distillery-- they expect a little tip for their effort... not other door man or bouncer has, but they ask...At TGI Friday's the service is good and they have been helpful so I round up and add an extra 20 pesos.
Service at restaurants-- in general, other than Friday's-- it SUCKS. Staff can't get you to order fast enough. but once the food comes out... they disappear. They leave you alone... not all that bad... but getting a check is a chore-- one has to make a production out of it--- the sign that seems to work--once the staff's attention is gained-- is to put my thumb and fingers on each hand together and join them... then make a motion outwardly opening my hands saying "CHECK PLEASE!"
Cheese-- Things that were staples for me in the US... Cheese and lunchmeat are super expensive... I really havent had any lunchmeat... We do overpay for fresh ham from a market vendor (12 bucks for a medium container) but otherwise... any type of sliced meat is way overpriced. I never realized I had an American Cheese addiction, but I do use it on everything...Over here not so much... the cheap cheese (30 pesos) is not a melting cheese... not sure what it is... Sunday I broke down and decided to buy a package of 12 American singles. Kraft was 227 pesos for 12 slices ($5)... I couldnt do it. an off brand from Wisconsin was 137 (3 bucks) ... Sadly we destroyed that package of 12 slices... it is all gone.. but tasty... I will try to not buy it too often but sure was good.
Hoops on Tv-- They say "tune to Channel 5" but here its on channel 4--I do not think I mentioned it in my earlier blog about hoops--- but the the PBA does things different than what we are used to... They have 3 mini seasons annually called conferences. This one is the Governors Cup. Each one is a little different. this one is for guys under 6'5"... There is a salary cap. The next one starts in a few weeks and will be for guys only from the Philippines... So players I am cheering for and have seen in the NBA D League, like Marqus Blakely, Elijah Millsap, and Mario West... will all be heading home after this conference. The other conference is for all sizes and nationalities...It will be fun to follow. Watching the game is easier on mute, due to the fact that the announcers are speaking in both English and Tagalog... Its tough to keep up... but then they rattle off 4 sentences in English and I am caught up.
Well there you go... some random musings... if you have questions for a future blog, let me know! This weekend there is comedy that I am excited to check out... and Tuesday the Gin Blossoms are here!
Take care, everyone!
Chuck
I am sitting here watching Game 3 of the Philippines Basketball Association (PBA) Governors Cup Finals and thought it would be a good time to write some more. Not to mention, its raining...
First... Major thoughts and prayers to all affected in the Philippines by the earthquake yesterday. Over 100 have died and I am sure that number will sadly increase. Suzy's employer, Cognizant, has a call center down there that was affected. She was supposed to be there a couple weeks ago. She will be heading there most likely in a week or two... Puts things in perspective...
MORE RAIN-- Last night we had a MAJOR storm, which led to a power outage... Power didnt come on until 3 this morning. The only negative was that the condo got steamy... I am on floor 7. I wonder what floor 28 was like. It was 31 celsius in the condo (86 fahrenheit). That rain was intense.
Taho-- Saturday we tried some stuff called Taho. Its a local treat served hot... It can be best described as a Malt O Meal tasting concoction with little tapioca balls in it like a bubble tea. There is a street vendor by Suzy who serves it and she said that version is better... and less expensive... Granted we spent 35 Pesos on the one we got (75 cents).
Local Tax... Tax on items purchased is weird. 12%... but it is not assessed on items up front. So like when we bought our phones... they were 8,000 pesos each but actually 960 pesos for tax was built into that price... There are signs everywhere saying we have to save all our receipts and it is against the law for a business to not give you a receipt. Im not sure what all this means when we have to pay taxes here ... but we are saving everything.
Taxi service-- I made a friend who is a trainer for the San Mig basketball team. He moved from Portland to here 4 years ago and was helping me with the differences in lifestyle. He advised me of 2 common scams for taxis... Literally, there seems like a million taxis. They are everywhere... most are reputable, some are not. 1st scam... the driver doesnt turn on his meter and just negotiates a deal... That has happened to Suzy once or twice and me twice... I negotiated both times as once it was pouring rain and the other time we had to go during rush hour... My friend Todd advised to stand firm and make them use the meter and then negotiate a tip on top of it. A cab ride is literally 4 bucks and it is easy over here to get caught up in "whats another dollar" but Todd explained it is spoiling them and making it tougher... Second scam... His wife and kids were nearly victim... Cabbie says that he can't go further and to go to next cab--which is a buddy in on the scam. Monday on my way into Manila the cabbie tried to pull that on me... he couldnt go there-- but his friend could in the next cab... I just got out, thanked them all... and kept stepping to a couple cabs down... Each cab ride was 165 pesos (four bucks) and I rounded to 180 (30 cent tip) which seems low, but that is what the standard is.
Tipping in general... I have taken some clothes in to get a button sewn on (50 cents) and that place has a sign that strictly says NO TIPPING. Other restaurants build 10% onto the bill and then we round up like with taxis... Bouncers at the local bar -- the distillery-- they expect a little tip for their effort... not other door man or bouncer has, but they ask...At TGI Friday's the service is good and they have been helpful so I round up and add an extra 20 pesos.
Service at restaurants-- in general, other than Friday's-- it SUCKS. Staff can't get you to order fast enough. but once the food comes out... they disappear. They leave you alone... not all that bad... but getting a check is a chore-- one has to make a production out of it--- the sign that seems to work--once the staff's attention is gained-- is to put my thumb and fingers on each hand together and join them... then make a motion outwardly opening my hands saying "CHECK PLEASE!"
Cheese-- Things that were staples for me in the US... Cheese and lunchmeat are super expensive... I really havent had any lunchmeat... We do overpay for fresh ham from a market vendor (12 bucks for a medium container) but otherwise... any type of sliced meat is way overpriced. I never realized I had an American Cheese addiction, but I do use it on everything...Over here not so much... the cheap cheese (30 pesos) is not a melting cheese... not sure what it is... Sunday I broke down and decided to buy a package of 12 American singles. Kraft was 227 pesos for 12 slices ($5)... I couldnt do it. an off brand from Wisconsin was 137 (3 bucks) ... Sadly we destroyed that package of 12 slices... it is all gone.. but tasty... I will try to not buy it too often but sure was good.
Hoops on Tv-- They say "tune to Channel 5" but here its on channel 4--I do not think I mentioned it in my earlier blog about hoops--- but the the PBA does things different than what we are used to... They have 3 mini seasons annually called conferences. This one is the Governors Cup. Each one is a little different. this one is for guys under 6'5"... There is a salary cap. The next one starts in a few weeks and will be for guys only from the Philippines... So players I am cheering for and have seen in the NBA D League, like Marqus Blakely, Elijah Millsap, and Mario West... will all be heading home after this conference. The other conference is for all sizes and nationalities...It will be fun to follow. Watching the game is easier on mute, due to the fact that the announcers are speaking in both English and Tagalog... Its tough to keep up... but then they rattle off 4 sentences in English and I am caught up.
Well there you go... some random musings... if you have questions for a future blog, let me know! This weekend there is comedy that I am excited to check out... and Tuesday the Gin Blossoms are here!
Take care, everyone!
Chuck
Friday, October 11, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--Vinny has taken over!
October 11, 2013
Vinny here, or you can call me Vince, or Buddy... I have watched Mom and Dad blog so I thought it was time for MY story to be told... I think people forget that I have an adjustment period moving here, too. Today I will share a day in my life...
First-- about me-- I am nearly 5. I was born in Nebraska and rescued by Suzy's Parents. I am a mix of West Highland Terrier and Maltese. I have a birth brother Max that lives in Nebraska. I was adopted on February 21, 2009. My half sister Lacey now lives with Suzy's parents.
11:00 PM-- Dad is going to bed, so it is time for bed... the key is to jump on the bed first and sprawl out, causing him to be the big spoon.
2:14 AM-- I hear a random noise, so it is imperative to bark incessantly. Who needs sleep?
2:21 AM-- I verify there is nothing out there-- so I can go back to bed--
5:53 AM-- hmmm the distinct sound of keys in the door. Although I know it is Mom, time to BARK! whoo hoo it is Mom... time to go for a walk! I get walked on the roof of a mall which is 5th floor. We live 7th floor, so I have the path down... 30 paces to the elevator. down 2 floors-- and out we go. I like going out now because there arent very many people or other dogs out at this time and they stress me out. the "going out spot is approximately a 100 meter walk. there is a 10 foot by 15 foot area for me. I think it literally is just for me as I am the only dogs that seems to use it. There are signs everywhere posted that this is the spot but dogs are always going in "NO PEE OR POOP ZONE" areas. I am glad to have parents who can read English and respect the rules of the association. Personally I think they are just scared.
6:05 AM-- We are back inside and its time for some Mommy bonding time. Hmm what is on TV? Ghost stories? Billy the exterminator? American Pickers?
7:51 AM-- Dad is up and they are figuring out breakfast... good time for me to take a nap.
9:02 AM-- For people who had never seen Duck Dynasty before they came to Philippines, they sure watch a lot of it... I will just turn over as I do not understand that Uncle Si. I do like that Miss kay is a dog lover.
10:47 AM-- Time for Mom to go to bed-- Hooray! Bedtime again! I love this.
11:15 AM-- You know what, before bed-- lets go on a walk. Dad gets to do the honors-- oh yeah lots of people milling about and it is my JOB to bark at each and everyone. Dad has been working on my manners and working on my bahavior by having me "sit" often to get my attention. I get it-- you want me to sit-- but there is a pomeranian over there peeing in a no pee zone and I need to let him know about it. The only bad thing is now I have to push Mom around on the bed as she is sleeping in MY spot.
1:33 PM-- Random noises! time to bark... Mom doesn't need to sleep.
2:22 PM-- Dad is running to the store for his every other day trek to get soda and water and whatever else. I just need my beauty sleep
4:14 PM--Dad is keen to hearing my scratching at the bedroom door and lets me out so I can run around the condo. Time to go out again... oh great the lady with a yipping Corgi is out there. I hate that Corgi. I am Vince from IOWA-- HEAR ME! Its abo9ut to rain so I better do my business and get inside. It is always raining. YES! FOOD TIME! Let's eat. Mom got me the hook up on foor from a veterinarian. Allegedly otherwise food for me here can't 100% be trusted.
5:21 PM--Time to play! My two favorite toys are caps from 2 liter bottles and paper towel rolls. I love those caps. It is so fun to drop it onto a blanket, then shake the blanket causing the cap to fly... then I chase that cap... and repeat. I have some other conventional toys like a stuffed batman and he is ok, but paper towel rolls and caps are where its at.
7:01 PM--Time for Mom to go to work... better say my good byes... I cant tell time so 11 hours feels like an eternity.
8:07 PM--- Dad is going for a walk. Sometimes he likes to go to the open air market for local cuisine. sometimes he goes to Friday's to have a cold one. Sometimes I do not like it so I will leave him a message on the pee pad. I am generally house trained but occasionally I "forget"
9:16 PM-- Dad is back, and we are going out for a walk. I do not need to go out-- that pee pad is taken care of! But I will make him think he is doing the right thing. A little secret-- I get scared easily by the people who come out of the little hut. I am not sure why they are working in a dark little hut on the roof of a mall, but I will bark at him.
11:00 PM--ahhh storage wars is over-- must be time for bed... awesome! I get to jump on first!
Good night!
Vinny here, or you can call me Vince, or Buddy... I have watched Mom and Dad blog so I thought it was time for MY story to be told... I think people forget that I have an adjustment period moving here, too. Today I will share a day in my life...
First-- about me-- I am nearly 5. I was born in Nebraska and rescued by Suzy's Parents. I am a mix of West Highland Terrier and Maltese. I have a birth brother Max that lives in Nebraska. I was adopted on February 21, 2009. My half sister Lacey now lives with Suzy's parents.
11:00 PM-- Dad is going to bed, so it is time for bed... the key is to jump on the bed first and sprawl out, causing him to be the big spoon.
2:14 AM-- I hear a random noise, so it is imperative to bark incessantly. Who needs sleep?
2:21 AM-- I verify there is nothing out there-- so I can go back to bed--
5:53 AM-- hmmm the distinct sound of keys in the door. Although I know it is Mom, time to BARK! whoo hoo it is Mom... time to go for a walk! I get walked on the roof of a mall which is 5th floor. We live 7th floor, so I have the path down... 30 paces to the elevator. down 2 floors-- and out we go. I like going out now because there arent very many people or other dogs out at this time and they stress me out. the "going out spot is approximately a 100 meter walk. there is a 10 foot by 15 foot area for me. I think it literally is just for me as I am the only dogs that seems to use it. There are signs everywhere posted that this is the spot but dogs are always going in "NO PEE OR POOP ZONE" areas. I am glad to have parents who can read English and respect the rules of the association. Personally I think they are just scared.
6:05 AM-- We are back inside and its time for some Mommy bonding time. Hmm what is on TV? Ghost stories? Billy the exterminator? American Pickers?
7:51 AM-- Dad is up and they are figuring out breakfast... good time for me to take a nap.
9:02 AM-- For people who had never seen Duck Dynasty before they came to Philippines, they sure watch a lot of it... I will just turn over as I do not understand that Uncle Si. I do like that Miss kay is a dog lover.
10:47 AM-- Time for Mom to go to bed-- Hooray! Bedtime again! I love this.
11:15 AM-- You know what, before bed-- lets go on a walk. Dad gets to do the honors-- oh yeah lots of people milling about and it is my JOB to bark at each and everyone. Dad has been working on my manners and working on my bahavior by having me "sit" often to get my attention. I get it-- you want me to sit-- but there is a pomeranian over there peeing in a no pee zone and I need to let him know about it. The only bad thing is now I have to push Mom around on the bed as she is sleeping in MY spot.
1:33 PM-- Random noises! time to bark... Mom doesn't need to sleep.
2:22 PM-- Dad is running to the store for his every other day trek to get soda and water and whatever else. I just need my beauty sleep
4:14 PM--Dad is keen to hearing my scratching at the bedroom door and lets me out so I can run around the condo. Time to go out again... oh great the lady with a yipping Corgi is out there. I hate that Corgi. I am Vince from IOWA-- HEAR ME! Its abo9ut to rain so I better do my business and get inside. It is always raining. YES! FOOD TIME! Let's eat. Mom got me the hook up on foor from a veterinarian. Allegedly otherwise food for me here can't 100% be trusted.
5:21 PM--Time to play! My two favorite toys are caps from 2 liter bottles and paper towel rolls. I love those caps. It is so fun to drop it onto a blanket, then shake the blanket causing the cap to fly... then I chase that cap... and repeat. I have some other conventional toys like a stuffed batman and he is ok, but paper towel rolls and caps are where its at.
7:01 PM--Time for Mom to go to work... better say my good byes... I cant tell time so 11 hours feels like an eternity.
8:07 PM--- Dad is going for a walk. Sometimes he likes to go to the open air market for local cuisine. sometimes he goes to Friday's to have a cold one. Sometimes I do not like it so I will leave him a message on the pee pad. I am generally house trained but occasionally I "forget"
9:16 PM-- Dad is back, and we are going out for a walk. I do not need to go out-- that pee pad is taken care of! But I will make him think he is doing the right thing. A little secret-- I get scared easily by the people who come out of the little hut. I am not sure why they are working in a dark little hut on the roof of a mall, but I will bark at him.
11:00 PM--ahhh storage wars is over-- must be time for bed... awesome! I get to jump on first!
Good night!
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines... my first sporting event
October 09, 2013
Last Friday I went to Araneta Coliseum to see a play-off basketball game. Marqus Blakely was afavorite at the Iowa Energy and his team, the San Mig Coffee Mixers took on the Meralco Bolts. Mario West plays for Meralco. He lives by us and we see him around all the time whether its at breakfast, or at the grocery store.
Araneta was where the Thrilla in Manila was held. That alone was awesome. To say I was at a place where one of the most famous fights was held is cool.
I took a cab. Game was at 7:15 and I left at 5:30. Cabbie was upset about having to go there due to traffic. He relented as we agreed to an upfront price of 150 pesos. (less than 4 bucks). I got there and bought my ticket. Prices were comparable to D League prices we pay in Des Moines for Play-offs. the seats were 12-20 bucks for the 100-300 sections. Above that were less expensive bench seats and standing room only. most all of the 100 level seats were sold out-- I went for 2nd row courtside... 22 bucks. I thought it was 2nd row after the courtside because there was still a vip, but no-- I was second row. Araneta is a dome stadium so that was cool-- it was like a huge version of an old roundhouse like in Marshalltown.
I got to my seat about an hour early so I walked around. time to see what is the same and different about a sporting event in the Philippines.
Food-- There was standard food like hamburgers, fries, popcorn, etc. Taco bell and Pizza Hut had stands. There was a jamaican place that had some sort of taco looking thing. I settled on a hot dog on a stick. they wanted me to put mayo on it-- I declined. At my seat there were food vendors walking around. a person next to me got what looked like a bowl of whole kernel corn with some orange sauce on it.
National Anthem-- At game time the National Anthem played. It was interesting hearing the National Anthem of the Philippines for the first time. Sounded like a hymn. It was a recording. Definitiely no Jim Cornelison, but it was cool.
Referees-- They say a prayer before the game. Players and coaches complain just like in the US.
Fans-- it was more like high school basketball crowd or college football. lots of people dressed up, faces painted, each side had long balloons like the type used for balloon animals and they used them to wave and beat together. Each side also had a drum line. Drums rang from each side of the dome the moment the ball was tipped. It was deafening. Boom Boom Boom. wow. The crowds on each side were yelling at the top of their lungs. They had cheers ... some were the morm-- "D Fense" and some were in native tongue. during timeouts and half they then blared music... mostly early 90s rap. "Whoop there it is" and "Pump up the Jam" "Twilight Zone"
Cheerleaders-- There were no cheerleaders
Mascots-- Meralco's mascot was what I would describe as the Purdue Boilermaker mascot in an orange outfit. San mig-- well they are the coffee mixers so their's was a coffee mug. Elasto Rain and Shine is another team-- and their mascot was there too... not sure why or what that was.
games for fans-- When I was at a Miami Heat Game last November, I saw a guy hit a half court hook shot for 75 k. At this game-- I saw a guy hit a free throw, 3 pointer and half court, all in a row. not sure what he won, but the dude was stoked. they had another where one fan laid in a barrell and was rolled up and down the court, then had to get out and make a shot. That was crazy. fans loved that as the people were quite dizzy.
The game-- Mario west got hurt in the 3rd quarter. That was too bad. Marqus Blakely though had a great game and a couple huge dunks. San Mig won which was game 3 in a best of 5. San Mig also won game 4 to clinch the series and advance to the finals.
after the game... leaving the arena was a free-for-all. People also went nuts for free t-shirts. give your ticket--get a shirt-- I keep my tickets so no free shirt for me. Plus-- the crowd was nuts people cut in front of lines and have no manners. I didn't need a medium sized shirt that bad.
SO... Araneta Coliseum, cool venue. great times. My ears are still ringing.
Take care everyone...
Chuck
Last Friday I went to Araneta Coliseum to see a play-off basketball game. Marqus Blakely was afavorite at the Iowa Energy and his team, the San Mig Coffee Mixers took on the Meralco Bolts. Mario West plays for Meralco. He lives by us and we see him around all the time whether its at breakfast, or at the grocery store.
Araneta was where the Thrilla in Manila was held. That alone was awesome. To say I was at a place where one of the most famous fights was held is cool.
I took a cab. Game was at 7:15 and I left at 5:30. Cabbie was upset about having to go there due to traffic. He relented as we agreed to an upfront price of 150 pesos. (less than 4 bucks). I got there and bought my ticket. Prices were comparable to D League prices we pay in Des Moines for Play-offs. the seats were 12-20 bucks for the 100-300 sections. Above that were less expensive bench seats and standing room only. most all of the 100 level seats were sold out-- I went for 2nd row courtside... 22 bucks. I thought it was 2nd row after the courtside because there was still a vip, but no-- I was second row. Araneta is a dome stadium so that was cool-- it was like a huge version of an old roundhouse like in Marshalltown.
I got to my seat about an hour early so I walked around. time to see what is the same and different about a sporting event in the Philippines.
Food-- There was standard food like hamburgers, fries, popcorn, etc. Taco bell and Pizza Hut had stands. There was a jamaican place that had some sort of taco looking thing. I settled on a hot dog on a stick. they wanted me to put mayo on it-- I declined. At my seat there were food vendors walking around. a person next to me got what looked like a bowl of whole kernel corn with some orange sauce on it.
National Anthem-- At game time the National Anthem played. It was interesting hearing the National Anthem of the Philippines for the first time. Sounded like a hymn. It was a recording. Definitiely no Jim Cornelison, but it was cool.
Referees-- They say a prayer before the game. Players and coaches complain just like in the US.
Fans-- it was more like high school basketball crowd or college football. lots of people dressed up, faces painted, each side had long balloons like the type used for balloon animals and they used them to wave and beat together. Each side also had a drum line. Drums rang from each side of the dome the moment the ball was tipped. It was deafening. Boom Boom Boom. wow. The crowds on each side were yelling at the top of their lungs. They had cheers ... some were the morm-- "D Fense" and some were in native tongue. during timeouts and half they then blared music... mostly early 90s rap. "Whoop there it is" and "Pump up the Jam" "Twilight Zone"
Cheerleaders-- There were no cheerleaders
Mascots-- Meralco's mascot was what I would describe as the Purdue Boilermaker mascot in an orange outfit. San mig-- well they are the coffee mixers so their's was a coffee mug. Elasto Rain and Shine is another team-- and their mascot was there too... not sure why or what that was.
games for fans-- When I was at a Miami Heat Game last November, I saw a guy hit a half court hook shot for 75 k. At this game-- I saw a guy hit a free throw, 3 pointer and half court, all in a row. not sure what he won, but the dude was stoked. they had another where one fan laid in a barrell and was rolled up and down the court, then had to get out and make a shot. That was crazy. fans loved that as the people were quite dizzy.
The game-- Mario west got hurt in the 3rd quarter. That was too bad. Marqus Blakely though had a great game and a couple huge dunks. San Mig won which was game 3 in a best of 5. San Mig also won game 4 to clinch the series and advance to the finals.
after the game... leaving the arena was a free-for-all. People also went nuts for free t-shirts. give your ticket--get a shirt-- I keep my tickets so no free shirt for me. Plus-- the crowd was nuts people cut in front of lines and have no manners. I didn't need a medium sized shirt that bad.
SO... Araneta Coliseum, cool venue. great times. My ears are still ringing.
Take care everyone...
Chuck
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines. Day 29 straight of some rain.
October 1, 2013
Hi Everyone, hope all had a great weekend. We had hoped to go shopping downtown at a market or two, but the weather as well as potential crowds, impeded our efforts... We will try to do that at another time.
Friday I did take a stroll to a beer festival kick off. It was held in the main courtyard of Eastwood City and featured a few bands. It was so crowded that I actually decided to not go inside, just hang out nearby and drink a beer at Friday's and enjoy the music. The people at Friday's are great. I appreciate that they have taken time to get to know who I am. Also, I appreciate that they check in on me whether or not I have ordered food there. We have found out here that once food is ordered... staff disappears. I miss having someone ask if all is ok, if I need anything, etc. Even getting a bill is tough.
Thursday and Friday at the mall was local arts and crafts. I got some wood bowls and some fabric runners to put on the end tables. There was a lot of jewelry and purses and other items, but there were in a lot of cases, no prices. Ive been told that is so one can barter. Id rather at least know where to start from. So I avoided places without tags. maybe down the road I will get more brave.
Sunday at the mall was a food tasting. We went for the Coffee and biscuits round. People there acted as if this free food was the last food ever. pushing, shoving and overall rudeness. Folks were taking handfuls upon handfuls of cookies. YIKES. We decided one round was good and did not stay for the other rounds.
We have room air conditioners in the Living room, and in each of the bedrooms. The living room one has been dripping condensation like no other... Time to call for help. Yesterday, an assistant of our broker who helped us with getting the condo stopped by along with their fix-it guy. He is a cool dude. Very open. He was over one time before to check on the plumbing and openly asked me about my views on government and church and family. Fix-it guy took a look at the AC, said it needs a cleaning, and that he will get his tools and be back tomorrow. Thanks, dude. They are to be over shortly today.
So Suzy leaves tonight for Cebu City until Saturday to do some work down there... I don't exactly like when she leaves... She has no phone as she lost hers so contact isn't good. So its just me and Vinny for a few days and I hate even leaving the condo much when she is gone days at a time like this because if something was to happen to me, no one would know. Its not like in Iowa where people would notice... I am still waiting to hear on getting my work visa so the next few days will be pretty boring. Before Suzy leaves, I will go do some shopping so I have enough supplies for the rest of the week. I did pick up the movie Castaway for a couple bucks from a mall vendor. I will watch that at some time. I can relate to parts. Vinny can play the role of Wilson.
It is really different watching events in the U.S. from the other side. This government shutdown, the shooting in D.C., it isn't covered a lot locally. At least there is cnn and fox news. There is also Al Jazeera, BBC, Australia, and Korean News. It is interesting to see their take.
A big thanks to Donnie for streaming some Team United Roller Derby yesterday. Great to watch and see a piece of home.
Well that is all for now, watching the Rays, Rangers baseball game. That is another piece of home. More to come later in the week. Take care of yourselves, everyone.
Chuck
Hi Everyone, hope all had a great weekend. We had hoped to go shopping downtown at a market or two, but the weather as well as potential crowds, impeded our efforts... We will try to do that at another time.
Friday I did take a stroll to a beer festival kick off. It was held in the main courtyard of Eastwood City and featured a few bands. It was so crowded that I actually decided to not go inside, just hang out nearby and drink a beer at Friday's and enjoy the music. The people at Friday's are great. I appreciate that they have taken time to get to know who I am. Also, I appreciate that they check in on me whether or not I have ordered food there. We have found out here that once food is ordered... staff disappears. I miss having someone ask if all is ok, if I need anything, etc. Even getting a bill is tough.
Thursday and Friday at the mall was local arts and crafts. I got some wood bowls and some fabric runners to put on the end tables. There was a lot of jewelry and purses and other items, but there were in a lot of cases, no prices. Ive been told that is so one can barter. Id rather at least know where to start from. So I avoided places without tags. maybe down the road I will get more brave.
Sunday at the mall was a food tasting. We went for the Coffee and biscuits round. People there acted as if this free food was the last food ever. pushing, shoving and overall rudeness. Folks were taking handfuls upon handfuls of cookies. YIKES. We decided one round was good and did not stay for the other rounds.
We have room air conditioners in the Living room, and in each of the bedrooms. The living room one has been dripping condensation like no other... Time to call for help. Yesterday, an assistant of our broker who helped us with getting the condo stopped by along with their fix-it guy. He is a cool dude. Very open. He was over one time before to check on the plumbing and openly asked me about my views on government and church and family. Fix-it guy took a look at the AC, said it needs a cleaning, and that he will get his tools and be back tomorrow. Thanks, dude. They are to be over shortly today.
So Suzy leaves tonight for Cebu City until Saturday to do some work down there... I don't exactly like when she leaves... She has no phone as she lost hers so contact isn't good. So its just me and Vinny for a few days and I hate even leaving the condo much when she is gone days at a time like this because if something was to happen to me, no one would know. Its not like in Iowa where people would notice... I am still waiting to hear on getting my work visa so the next few days will be pretty boring. Before Suzy leaves, I will go do some shopping so I have enough supplies for the rest of the week. I did pick up the movie Castaway for a couple bucks from a mall vendor. I will watch that at some time. I can relate to parts. Vinny can play the role of Wilson.
It is really different watching events in the U.S. from the other side. This government shutdown, the shooting in D.C., it isn't covered a lot locally. At least there is cnn and fox news. There is also Al Jazeera, BBC, Australia, and Korean News. It is interesting to see their take.
A big thanks to Donnie for streaming some Team United Roller Derby yesterday. Great to watch and see a piece of home.
Well that is all for now, watching the Rays, Rangers baseball game. That is another piece of home. More to come later in the week. Take care of yourselves, everyone.
Chuck
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--Sports, nightlife and miscellaneous
September 26, 2013
I will not be blogging daily... even though I do have time on my hands, there isn't that much to report on a daily basis. But this weekend begins Octoberfest here, a month-long beer celebration and if the weather lets up, we plan to venture further into the city to do some bartering at a street fair, so I reckon its good to write about a few more things now before summarizing the weekend.
My love of sports has been well documented. Here, that is going to be a challenge due to differences in both culture and time. The big sports that are followed here are Basketball, boxing, billiards, and cockfighting. The sports that dominate tv-- the aforementioned as well as ufc, a lot of futbol and rugby. The Australian channel has Australian Rules Football. I can get with that, but unfortunately they changed the uniforms the cool umpires used to wear in the 80s. There is also indoor soccer-- which is literally 5 on 5 on a basketball court and an interesting sport I was advised of to look for-- Sepaktakraw. Sepaktakraw-- picture volleyball -- 3 on 3-- but no hands! all soccer skills. It is amazing to see all the bicycle kicks and how nimble these athletes are as essentially they play volleyball with their feet.
There is no Roller Derby. I am missing that and my roller derby family a ton. I try to follow the local bouts on twitter. There is no American Football on TV, and only occasional baseball games when fox Sports feels like pre-empting soccer. I did see where they are going to show the World Series so that is exciting. I listen to Iowa games and the two Packer games I have streamed, they lost, so who knows if I will do that any more. The hardest part is Iowa is on at 4:30 Sunday morning for me... Kind of a day disrupter. I wish there were more night games as at least it would be on at say 7 or 8 am.
My current hangout is TGI Fridays. I figured it would give a taste of the US and I can then get a handle on the culture. The staff is quite friendly and are great with the questions I ask. Plus this gives me a chance to try to understand the voice inflection of the locals. Years of loud music has my hearing far from perfect, so I am already at a deficit and I hate to continue to ask someone what they are saying-- they think it is them and aren't speaking clearly, when usually its really me, not hearing everything.
I went bowling once and I went to the pool hall once... there are helpers that rack the pool balls for you. weird. I am not used to that. The kid was not particularly a good racker, either. When bowling, there is a person designated to assist in getting a ball for you, signing you in, etc.
There aren't a ton of bars, specifically, but pretty much every dining spot that isn't mcDonalds or KFC serves beer at a minimum. Drinking age is 18. Most also serve wine and hard liquor. One bar is called the distillery. Its the high end spot in Eastwood. It has 40 or so scotches as well as a large selection of European beers. There is smoking in the bar, which is weird. I had forgotten about things like that. there is room for about 50 people at the tables so they seat you at tables with others. Most tables also order a bottle of say jack Daniels or Jose Cuervo and enjoy it as a group.
A couple of things Ive noticed at the bar-- individual groups or tables do not intermingle. Maybe thats because the city is so huge and people keep to themselves-- or maybe its more cultural and folks are just more shy. Also there haven't been any fights or even flare ups that I have seen. Granted, Im not hanging out at closing, but there isn't as much drunken testosterone as there is in the states-- that ive seen in a limited a mount of times. There are bouncers at the distillery and one, Hubert, Ive gotten to talk to a couple times. He always asks where Suzy is and I have to state that she is working. I think it is off custom to go out alone, but I have never had a problem doing that. I then explain whenever I am asked that Suzy is working and she knows I am out.
Bars close at 3 apparently. One thing we have noticed with Suzy getting home at 6 or so each morning and this may be because of all the call centers around here that cater to companies worldwide, is that the area is BUZZING at 7 am. outdoor cafes are packed, restaurants are busy, and generally there is a lot of hustle and bustle. There are probably a lot of people leaving from work or heading to work...
and then there is me, a guy still working on getting a visa so I CAN work.
Well everyone, until next time, which I reckon will be about octoberfest, shopping, and who knows what, take care.
Chuck
I will not be blogging daily... even though I do have time on my hands, there isn't that much to report on a daily basis. But this weekend begins Octoberfest here, a month-long beer celebration and if the weather lets up, we plan to venture further into the city to do some bartering at a street fair, so I reckon its good to write about a few more things now before summarizing the weekend.
My love of sports has been well documented. Here, that is going to be a challenge due to differences in both culture and time. The big sports that are followed here are Basketball, boxing, billiards, and cockfighting. The sports that dominate tv-- the aforementioned as well as ufc, a lot of futbol and rugby. The Australian channel has Australian Rules Football. I can get with that, but unfortunately they changed the uniforms the cool umpires used to wear in the 80s. There is also indoor soccer-- which is literally 5 on 5 on a basketball court and an interesting sport I was advised of to look for-- Sepaktakraw. Sepaktakraw-- picture volleyball -- 3 on 3-- but no hands! all soccer skills. It is amazing to see all the bicycle kicks and how nimble these athletes are as essentially they play volleyball with their feet.
There is no Roller Derby. I am missing that and my roller derby family a ton. I try to follow the local bouts on twitter. There is no American Football on TV, and only occasional baseball games when fox Sports feels like pre-empting soccer. I did see where they are going to show the World Series so that is exciting. I listen to Iowa games and the two Packer games I have streamed, they lost, so who knows if I will do that any more. The hardest part is Iowa is on at 4:30 Sunday morning for me... Kind of a day disrupter. I wish there were more night games as at least it would be on at say 7 or 8 am.
My current hangout is TGI Fridays. I figured it would give a taste of the US and I can then get a handle on the culture. The staff is quite friendly and are great with the questions I ask. Plus this gives me a chance to try to understand the voice inflection of the locals. Years of loud music has my hearing far from perfect, so I am already at a deficit and I hate to continue to ask someone what they are saying-- they think it is them and aren't speaking clearly, when usually its really me, not hearing everything.
I went bowling once and I went to the pool hall once... there are helpers that rack the pool balls for you. weird. I am not used to that. The kid was not particularly a good racker, either. When bowling, there is a person designated to assist in getting a ball for you, signing you in, etc.
There aren't a ton of bars, specifically, but pretty much every dining spot that isn't mcDonalds or KFC serves beer at a minimum. Drinking age is 18. Most also serve wine and hard liquor. One bar is called the distillery. Its the high end spot in Eastwood. It has 40 or so scotches as well as a large selection of European beers. There is smoking in the bar, which is weird. I had forgotten about things like that. there is room for about 50 people at the tables so they seat you at tables with others. Most tables also order a bottle of say jack Daniels or Jose Cuervo and enjoy it as a group.
A couple of things Ive noticed at the bar-- individual groups or tables do not intermingle. Maybe thats because the city is so huge and people keep to themselves-- or maybe its more cultural and folks are just more shy. Also there haven't been any fights or even flare ups that I have seen. Granted, Im not hanging out at closing, but there isn't as much drunken testosterone as there is in the states-- that ive seen in a limited a mount of times. There are bouncers at the distillery and one, Hubert, Ive gotten to talk to a couple times. He always asks where Suzy is and I have to state that she is working. I think it is off custom to go out alone, but I have never had a problem doing that. I then explain whenever I am asked that Suzy is working and she knows I am out.
Bars close at 3 apparently. One thing we have noticed with Suzy getting home at 6 or so each morning and this may be because of all the call centers around here that cater to companies worldwide, is that the area is BUZZING at 7 am. outdoor cafes are packed, restaurants are busy, and generally there is a lot of hustle and bustle. There are probably a lot of people leaving from work or heading to work...
and then there is me, a guy still working on getting a visa so I CAN work.
Well everyone, until next time, which I reckon will be about octoberfest, shopping, and who knows what, take care.
Chuck
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