All Kinds of Crazy!

Financial Literacy Workshop!!!!

2009-07-28T13:32:00.001-07:00

It's crazy how things work out sometimes. I just blogged about needing a financial literacy workshop for folks.... and BAM! I received this email from a fellow UCLA Alum. today. Sometimes we just gotta throw thoughts out into the universe... ha. (or just cyberspace. ha)...

"Nosizwe Chimurenga will be going over the 'bricks for a strong financial house' and what people should be looking for when investing and spending their money. The workshop is designed for people at all incomes and stages in life."

FINANCIAL LITERACY WORKSHOP
with Nosizwe Chimurenga
Wednesday, July 29th @ 6:30pm
Citi Building @ Marina Del Rey
12731 W Jefferson Blvd, Los Angeles

Upcoming workshops and events:

RACE & SEXUALITY POLITICAL DIALOGUE
Thursday, August 27th @ 6:30pm
Community Coalition @ South LA
8101 S Vermont Ave, Los Angeles

Summer Sounds

2009-07-21T16:43:00.000-07:00

let's get to know her a little bit more..

and let's read about her a little bit more..
Zee Avi

She's cool. She writes her own lyrics too. haha.

Concert Date: Aug 27.

Understanding recent events in US/Global Economy

2009-07-21T16:05:00.000-07:00

(use these clips in your gov't/econ. classes as starter points!)

I just got back from Day 1 of an economic summer institute seminar I signed up for. The focus of this seminar is the connection of the current financial crisis with history--drawing comparisons with the Great Depression (though we call today's crisis a "Great Recession" instead...not quite sure why...).

Anyway, I have to admit that I was truly fascinated with the topics we discussed and learned about in the seminar. We began class with this Frontline video clip (Part 1-3). I was a bit reluctant to even go to this seminar bc our HW reading, Krugman's The Return of Depression Economics, was a bit dense for me (I have trouble understanding financial terms bc it is so confounded). So I entered the class feeling a bit intimidated by my financial illiteracy.

We started the seminar with this Frontline clip and I was hooked. All the questions/confusion I had regarding these gov't giant bailouts in 2008 such as with Bear Stearns, were explained thru this clip and thru this seminar.

I realized that it is highly important to gain this financial literacy. For instance, what exactly is meant behind subprime mortgage lending? Yes, we may understand the basics that it is a loan given to a borrower who might be less likely to repay a loan (yet is given the loan anyway with the belief that when housing market picks up, the borrower can refinance or pay off mortgage by selling the house in the future), but to understand why this subprime mortgage loan had such a sweeping impact on particular regions such as CA, we would have to understand that the subprime mortgage lending was tightly interconnected/interweaved with other investors and financial institutions that it was just difficult to "unwind." This applies to Bear Stearns, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, Lehman Brothers, etc. Our own personal money was tied up in this messy web when we "deposit" money into the banks or when we take out mortgages...etc. etc...... This interconnected mess is termed, systemic risk. This is why even though the probs. may have been caused by decision making in Wall Street, we felt the affects on "Main Street" (which would be us...the people).

Anyway, this seminar provided me with a deeper interest in Economics and feeling a sense of urgency on becoming more financially literate. Financial terms are fully loaded and will guide folks on money management (or just being smarter with our money).

I think it's important that this type of financial literacy class/seminar is accessible in working class communities. We work hard for our money. It would be nice to know other options/opportunities to invest/save our hard earned money for long-term benefits for our families and our own communities. It almost appears that it is limited just to the elite....
hmmm...

(500) Days of Summer

2009-07-20T01:26:00.000-07:00

I saw this film today. Not too sure how to explain my liking of the film, but I'll try to explain my after thoughts: I think I like it. I liked it for it's soundtrack. It started off with a song I really like from The Smiths (so that's a plus). I liked it for it's simple story-telling format (nothing new or groundbreaking, but defn. suitable for the storyline). I liked it because it isn't the typical "love-story" we all are accustomed to seeing in Hollywood films (though I believe this is an indie-type film). I liked it bc it is a story of a young man who falls " hopelessly deeply in love" with the young, independent, "free-spirited," and unique woman (usually it's the other way around).

But this is where I have trouble: I think I don't know if I can say I fully liked the film bc I didn't know how to feel about the young free-spirited woman and her actions with the young man. I want to defend her and say that this young woman is not at fault for any pain involved bc she was upfront with her feelings and intentions the entire relationship/interaction with the young man. I want to say it is the young man's fault for deciding to pursue the young woman with the knowledge of her feelings. However, I found myself disliking the young woman for contradicting her own words and "misleading" the young man.

But this is where I begin to see the reality of this situation and begin to appreciate the film as well. I appreciate it because as much as we dislike or disagree with this young woman for "misleading" the young man, I realize that we all have experienced this situation before, whether we were the young woman who is upfront with our feelings/intentions yet contradicts with our actions at the expense of another's feelings; or we are the young man who, despite the knowledge of the young woman's intentions, go thru with "gray areas" of a relationship. Gray-area meaning there is no official label, we say we are friends, but we carry on an intimate romantic relationship.

I guess by watching this we either confront ourselves with how we are when we deal with other people's feelings in romantic relationships/friendships, or we just remember our past experiences and our old ways.

Anyway, I also appreciate the film for it's message on fate/destiny and "the one." I know we all have our own opinions on this topic, but without spoiling the rest of the film, I do want to say that sometimes the brutal truth of futile relationships is that maybe that one other person was never able to find/feel what you may have felt for them; and as much as that other person tried so hard to feel it (bc he/she really wanted to feel what you felt) by giving it time or putting in time (which most times causes frustration, pain, agony, confusion for both parties), sometimes both parties just have to accept the truth in the end that it just won't work out.....

....and that there is somebody else out there more compatible and this "somebody else" could just be anybody.

BOTTOM LINE: I RECOMMEND THIS FILM! It is cute.

This is what happens when you're DONE.

2009-06-24T13:59:00.001-07:00

"Notorious A.I.G"

2009-03-26T10:09:00.000-07:00

Another slow-jammin the news...

"AIG likes it rough." ha

So much for a "free-market" enterprise type of system.

President Barack Obama comes to the school I teach in!

2009-03-16T23:22:00.001-07:00

'nuff said.

HA. More updates on Thursday..

Whack status #1: We won't be able to attend the townhall, even if it's in OUR VERY OWN SCHOOL! EVEN IF WE, TEACHERS, AND STUDENTS, bust our asses everyday to provide the best education for the students... where's the justice in that?

ESPECIALLY when Pres. Barack Obama serves as the epitome of hope for many of the students who come from single-parent working class families...... He is a hero to many of the students at MC.

This "ticket-only" business has got to go! PRIORITY SHOULD GO TO STUDENTS.

Student Walkout in support of teacher layoffs

2009-03-16T22:46:00.000-07:00

It was nearly 10am and I heard screaming outside my window. I knew at that moment students walked out to protest the massive pink-slip deliveries this past weekend. I looked at my young 9th graders and half of the class looked scared and the other half got up and left.

I walked to my door and saw the majority of the students walk out of the classrooms. I must say it was a beautiful thing.

Students came up to me asking what they should do. All I could tell them was: "If you believe in what you are doing, I support you. If you believe in the cause and understand the cause, then I support you."

So I walked back into my classroom to my young 9th graders who were scared/worried. I could tell they wanted to go, but they were afraid of what their parents would do. I looked at them and told them that one day, if they feel they have ever been wronged--or if they witness injustice and they are passionate about this injustice, they will know when the right time is to stand up against it and do something.

They nodded quietly... And I could hear my students out on 3rd street...What beautiful noise it was...

Wish I was able to see the students... But hearing them was enough...Though many left the classroom for the hell of it, it makes me happy to know that they care...it makes me happy to know they took the initiative to stand up against the lay-offs...

It amazes me how they all planned this thru massive text-messages and myspace. This brings me hope that the movement will continue...

The seniority system is questionable. The younger and innovative teachers shouldn't go. Education should be the very last on the list to be cut or should NEVER be cut. LAUSD could cut on so many wasteful spending and save teachers. It is ridiculous to "offer" the 1st and 2nd year teachers substitute positions---basically having full-time in classroom teachers now holding an on-the-call position. We won't be able to file for unemployment bc that technically being a sub is still being hired under the district, so what option does that leave us?

As we are bumped out of the classroom, other teachers from other schools or even the district office (who have been in the district longer, and may not have taught in a classroom for years), will now enter the classroom setting. How the hell will that look like?

There has got to be a better solution, and cutting teachers is NOT the solution. The seniority system is unfair and unjust. We should cut out WASTEFUL SPENDING (like btsa or periodic assessments).

And more on a national scale... what makes me most upset and DOES NOT MAKE ANY SENSE TO ME is how the gov't was willing to bailout corporate giants like AIG ($170 b in taxpayer's money) BUT can't even bailout our Education System. We could save so many teacher positions with $170 b. AND... what pisses me off the most is that these AIG top executives are receiving up to $10m in bonuses? WTF for? Don't they know they were "bailed out" for a reason? Doesn't make sense AT ALL. It doesn't make sense when service groups across the US and esp. in CA are willing to take paycuts and DOUBLE ON THE LOAD. Where is the justice in that?

This system is flawed and this system does not work.

Student Walkout

AIG's Bonus Pay

Why I LOVE Flight of the Conchords:

2009-03-06T00:39:00.001-08:00

Season 2 is on!

This particular episode is amazing. I have a million things to comment on, but I would just leave it to the viewers to just see it all!

Instructions for this video:
1. Watch and enjoy the first time around
2. Watch over and over looking for the intricate details of the video that make it so creative... you'll appreciate it even more!

But I do want to say this: the way the video is shot and edited is FRIGGIN' creative. The song lyrics itself is clever. The "guitar" is hilarious and dope. haha. And I can just go on and on..... (don't forget to check out the other clip right below this one)..lol.

AND------ KOREAN KARAOKE? LOL. HI-LARRY-OUS! Who comes up with this shieeeeet? haha. (And Mel, the girl on the bench, is FRIGGIN' great) haha.

Drinking straight from the river, WHAT!?

2009-03-06T00:16:00.000-08:00

Introducing...the LIFESTRAW:

Apparently this Danish-inspired invention will assist people in Third World Countries (or "developing countries") who may not have access to clean drinking water. One can simply just dip this plastic flute-like straw into a river and suck----just like a straw. This straw then filters out and kills the bacteria---providing the people with clean drinking water.

Sounds like a great idea.. but tooooo crazy for me! Will this really work? How do we get these straws out to the people? Apparently these straws will be sent out from organizations here (ex. environmental groups).... But these straws aren't recycable, so how sustainable is this solution? We need a solution that will be sustainable for the people.....We need to have clean drinking water accessible to the people...

Check it out: LifeStraw

Thanks to my environmental students who shared this information with me... Prime example of teachers learning from their students.

Slow Jam the News!

2009-03-06T00:02:00.000-08:00

The Roots rock the show! Flavaaaaaah!
Imagine if we received political updates this way everyday:

Mic check...one two, one two..

2009-03-05T23:53:00.000-08:00

I AM BACK!

I can't believe it is MARCH.

Time is flying by so fast... Didn't realize my last blog was January.

I mean, from my last entry, Barack Obama was "President-elect."

BUT...now...

He is PRESIDENT Barack Obama.... Damn! Too much time in between my blog entries...

Guess finishing out 1st semester got toooooooo allkindsofcrazy!

Anyway, second semester is more chill. So I should be dropping by ever so often...

Body Image: Self-Perception/Deception

2009-01-07T16:19:00.000-08:00

Now this clip is allkindsofcrazy!

Thanks reye, for hookin' it up with this clip.
It's important to include friends in lesson planning! They can bring in so many ideas/resources.

Music to look forward to in 2009

2009-01-02T00:57:00.000-08:00

Wholesome.

What a beautiful song. Love the keys. I appreciate the way this video was shot and edited.

PS. I love Blue Scholars! ha.

2009: A Look Into the Year

2009-01-02T00:33:00.000-08:00

After much reflection on the past year, I decided my themes/foci of the year would be the following:

1. Cultivating existing relationships.
Since 2008 was focused on THE SELF, I would like to refocus on my loved ones
and community by improving/maintaining healthy relations with the people I
deeply care for.

One of the ways I will do so is by practicing the lessons I learn from
Thich Nhat Hanh's Teahings on Love.
This book is WOW. It's so practical/tangible/applicable. It's real talk.

For
example, I want to work on active listening and really taking a loving and
genuine look into a person and into what they are saying or doing. And as I do
this, I need to remember to be mindful of people's backgrounds and experiences
before I easily pass judgment. I know this sounds like "Duh, chris,we all know
this." But we tend to forget these important interpersonal skills. In
addition, I love the way Thich Nhat Hanh articulates these simple
acts of kindness and love, because it makes anyone reading the book feel like
its possible and easy to do! I think that's why sometimes it's hard to build
healthy relations with people: we make it difficult, or we think it's more
complex than how it really is.

I want to work on patience and understanding for others.

2. Being mindful and resourceful.
Since the US will be going through some tough times with the economy, I want
to make more of an effort to be mindful of the resources I have and the way
I use them. I want to be more creative with what I have and discover multiple
functions to what was initially a singular functional object.

3. Live healthy. Cook. Cook. Cook. Eat in moderation. Run. Run. Run weekly. After my run, I really felt good---internally and externally. I felt my perspective and understanding of things around me were clearer. But after this past month of unhealthy living (eating whatever was in sight), I definitely feel BLEH! I feel sluggish. My pace is slower. I feel lazier. I lost discipline and focus. I want to go back to feeling invincible. I must start again from the simple steps of being mindful of what I put into my body. I need to discipline and motivate myself to push as I run. I miss flying.

Go 2009!

2008: A Year in Review

2009-01-01T23:34:00.000-08:00

Wow.

2008 was such an interesting year. I remember I ushered in 2008 with so much uncomfortable anxiety and uncertainty. I remember I had no idea how I was going to celebrate the 2008 New Year and with whom. I remember feeling "lost" and "lonely." I was worried that those anxieties foreshadowed the upcoming 2008 year. I was grateful that I was able to spend it with my mom and Inang----my roots, my home. So, in a way, I think that's why 2008 was themed "Year of the SELF"--going back to who I am. So it was meant to be that way...

Then 2008 began and it was definitely rough. I had to figure out if my past could be my future...and learned eventually that some things are meant to be left alone in the past and that some things are just irreparable. I had to learn the art of letting go and making things happen for the present. I had to put faith into faith...and most importantly, understand that only I can make things happen. But in order for me to make things happen, I knew I had to work on myself.

2008 was such an important year of my life (so far).

2008 was THE year I had to focus on myself.

2008 was the year I constantly self-reflected.

2008 was the year I needed to appreciate time on my own.

2008 was the year I needed to explore life on my own.

2008 was the year I learned to listen to my needs.

2008 was the year I had to be disciplined and patient.

2008 was the year for many "first[s]":
a) shot and edited videos using final cut (which was first inspired and
motivated by my Inang's late brother)...
b) trained and ran a half marathon (all mental discipline)
c) started a blog (opening myself up)
d) attended a Maxwell concert! (oooohhh la la) hahaha
e) got my tattoo (declaration to the world on my philosophy of life)
f) made efforts to invest.... (a necessity of life and living)
g) voted on an historic election

Thus, 2008 was the year I felt I grew the most ever.... internally...

And by the closure of 2008, I have to say it was one of the most memorable and worthwhile years in my life (so far)....

And I'm looking forward to continue to grow and refine myself in 2009.

One thing I did learn is that I wouldn't have been able to grow this much alone. Thanks to my family and close friends who supported me.

"Poor thing, she needs that perfect man to fulfill her happiness"

2008-12-29T00:28:00.000-08:00

....or so these films make women think so....

Being back home in good ol' Riverside affords me ample time in front of the television. I practically spent the entire day watching random movies on TBS and HBO. By the time I finished the 3rd or 4th movie I felt upset!

These are the movies I watched in order:

1. Because I Said So (I liked this movie. ha)

2. Never Been Kissed

3. 27 Dresses

4. Sweetest Thing

I must admit that no one forced me to watch these movies. It was strictly voluntarily and I was definitely entertained and into these movies.

HOWEVER, after the 4th movie, I began to feel pathetic! Now let me clarify things first. No, I did not feel pathetic because I spent the entire day in front of the TV watching these movies (as a matter of fact, I cherished every moment of it!)

I felt pathetic because all these movies were about ONE THING AND ONE THING ONLY: a broken-hearted and bitter/helpless/hopeless woman who is in search of that perfect man to sweep her off her feet...and the "perfect ONE" happens to be the "guy next door" whom she doesn't initially notice.

Therefore, identifying myself as a woman and watching these women in the film made me feel pathetic! Damn. These movies are different in storyline but have the same bottom line theme.

So I started to think about movies that portray independent and empowered women that have nothing to do with men "sabotaging" their happiness. I COULDN'T THINK OF ANY! I still can't think of any. How would that look like?

Then I started to think about if the script was flipped and it was centered upon a brokenhearted man who is bitter/helpless/hopeless and is in search of the perfect woman. NOPE! COULDN'T THINK OF ANY MOVIES EITHER. How would that look like?

Anyway, this is problematic! It's problematic for both men and women. It's problematic for the men because they look like the villains and it's problematic for the women because they look like the helpless romantic victims. It makes women think that their sense of self-worth comes only with the validation of a man's attention.

( I need to be more productive with my time in River)

20/20 Vision

2008-12-29T00:04:00.000-08:00

Wish I was able to take a picture of the city today and post it on my blog to share with you all what I saw differently today.

For some extraordinary reason, my vision today was crystal clear. As I was driving down the 10 to downtown LA today, everything around me looked so crisp and the world looked so much cleaner and brighter. I looked towards the northwest and for the first time ever I was able to read the "Hollywood" sign from afar. It was as if the pollution parted ways and the trees gave way to the clear skies. I took the entire view in, since I knew it wouldn't last.

As I neared downtown off the 10fwy around 4-5pmish, I looked at the downtown buildings. Damn. It was a dope sight. The pinkish skyline reflected off the windows of the buildings and it looked like I was staring at mixed media of anime and reality.

Everything looked so clear and every edge of the buildings and trees around me were well-defined. It's crazy because it wasn't my own eyes that made things look crystal clear for me. It was everything in my eyesight that cleared up for me.

I guess it was just one of those special days when you walk out of your home and you see the world differently for just a moment.

Sometimes we just need to take a step back from our hectic lives and breathe in our surroundings....or at least be more aware and mindful of our surroundings. Maybe our days would be much better if we practiced this daily.

Heck, who would have known that the route I drive everyday of the week would look differently to me today.

Love Lasts...

2008-12-27T01:45:00.001-08:00

One of the sweetest things that makes the world smile and makes my day.

Great film: Slumdog Millionaire

2008-12-26T00:09:00.000-08:00

Finally got to watch the film, Slumdog Millionaire. I have to say that it is one of the greatest films I have seen in such a looooonnnng time.

The form and content of the film was harmonious and enriching. I appreciated the way the storyline was conveyed in the film---interweaving from past to present to understand the main character's life. I appreciated the way the beginning scenes were intricately cut in such a way that we were able to get a feel of the main character's community and way of living. One could definitely see and begin to understand the political, economical, and cultural struggles the people of India face. As I watched the film, I rewinded back to the time when I was in the Philippines back in 2005. Life in India is like life in the Philippines: from the young kids hustling and playing in streets barefoot...rummaging through the "smokey mountains," to the brutal sharp contrast of the "developed" and "affluent" cities... Even the culture---"pop" culture of spin-offs from American TV shows, "Who wants to be a millionaire" was an integral part of people's lives.

I think the film did a good job in portraying the different sectors of society in India (socially, culturally, politically, economically, and religiously).

It was a bit romantic and poetic, but not the sick-type of romantic. It was pretty deep. I must admit, I liked the scene where the characters, Jamal and Latika were in the kitchen and she asked him, "What will we live off of?" and his reply, "Love."
ha. That's deep......Now, at first, if you haven't seen the film, you may think that's cheesy. But if you take that scene into context and understand that these two grew up on hustling/poverty/nothing...that line was deep.

Something else I kept thinking about as I was watching the story unfold:
TRUE KNOWLEDGE COMES FROM EXPERIENCES. Sometimes the "uneducated" is the most educated amongst us all.

The film was all kinds of ironic...

1. The main character, who did not receive a formal education his entire life becomes a millionaire.

2. He becomes a millionaire strictly based upon his experiences---which, has become his alternative education.

3. He becomes a millionaire based upon the American TV show, "Who wants to be a millionaire." America, a capitalist nation based on corporate greed and entertainment and the belief that in order to become "rich and wealthy" is to be "educated."

Anyway, thank goodness for a good film.

Freakonomics' Levitt approves... so should I not worry as much?

2008-12-16T19:10:00.000-08:00

So just when I was getting a bit critical of Obama's choice for NSC [Robert Gates (boo), and Hillary Clinton, James Jones], maybe his choice for Education is hopeful...?

Obama just announced his appointment for Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan. [check this link out, interesting read on 'reformists' and 'traditionalists.'

I must research more on this feller.... But at least he has experience in the third largest school district in the nation. Not sure if that is necessarily a good thing, but coming from LAUSD, it's good to know that he is aware of the problems that plague big inner-city school districts.

In addition, as a fond reader of Freakonomics, I hope that Duncan remains critically conscious (culturally, socio-politically) when making major education 'reforms' and policies in the upcoming years.

Bush STINKS! But, has great reflex!

2008-12-16T18:36:00.000-08:00

So one thing I do give Bush props for--- his sharp reflexes. LOL.

I love it.

PS. on TIME's December 15, 2008 issue:

"I think I was unprepared for war." ---George W. Bush, AKA "the sharp reflex man".

what a mathafacka.

Seniors' Choir Hip-Hop

2008-12-08T17:42:00.000-08:00

Another reason why I love seniors. They're gangsterrrrs.

Thanks ceeeeg.

Music that makes you FEEL

2008-12-01T23:12:00.000-08:00

..and smile inside.

When was the last time you listened to a song that sounded so HEARTFELT it made you almost want to cry?

I can honestly say the last time was back in december 2007...when i listened to a song by nujabes--luv sic pt. 2...

But this dude, Nitsua-----is off the hook! I listen to these songs and others on his myspace (specifically "no one like you")and i just FEEL the SOUL in the songs he produces..

Enjoy. and check out his myspace too.

"Snow Walk"

It's like my soul is revived... I can't explain it. It's like when you see something so beautiful, you feel a tear coming on.. ha.

"Morning Horizon"

"Sun is Loud"

When the vocals drop on this... DAMN!

Schwarzenegger and Obama??

2008-11-20T22:06:00.000-08:00

For REAL?! hmm.... what's going on... is this just preliminary talks or what?...California is in a fucked up state. Our budget deficit is atrocious and it's definitely affecting everyday people. I'm especially upset with the recent news regarding the Cal-State system and the UC-system. This is definitely hard times and I worry about my seniors applying for college. As their teacher, I see how stressed out they are applying to college. They already do not have faith in themselves that they will get in. Now this big hit on education is a blow to them. Fack that! I even attended a UTLA meeting and learned that teacher's health benefits and salaries are threatened. So how the fuck are we supposed to pay for an increase in our co-pay while get a slash on our salary? Doesn't make sense...Thanks Arnold. Thanks. So is this "working with Obama" talks really true? OR does it just mean that he is willing to work with him? eh. Semantics. Guess we'll find out soon. In addition, I don't know about President-elect Obama's offer to Senator Clinton as Secretary of State.

Simply Wholesome

2008-11-20T21:19:00.000-08:00

A health food store and restuarant.
4508 West Slauson Ave
LA, CA 90043
323.294.2144

Everyone should check out this healthy soul food spot off of Slauson in Los Angeles.
The food is definitely made with soul. The music is classic. If you like artists like Delfonics, Isley Brothers, Curtis Mayfield, etc. etc., this place is just for you. Not only is the food fresh, light, and delicious, the music definitely complements the whole entire satiated experience. You will leave full...but it's a good type of full. It's not the "sick to the stomach---I can't walk" type of full. It's the "Yum, I feel great and healthy and cultured" type of full. ha.

What I love most about this spot is that the folks who run the restaurant and health food store are genuinely friendly. They will go out of their way to welcome newcomers and instantaneously make you feel at home. They will actually ask for your name and make you feel like part of their family.

It feels really good to see community members owning and running their own businesses...and it's really good to see immediate community members patron the restaurant and health food store. It's just good to know that the money is circulated back to the community.... That's how it should be...

I think it's important to also have the health component integrated with the community. Especially if we look at the socio-economics & food politics behind fast food joint locations (usually in predominantly low-income, people of color neighborhoods), which virtually offers no other healthy alternative but for folks to purchase "affordable"--UNHEALTHY food.

Simply Wholesome not only is that healthy "alternative" but it also provides literature on herbs, diets, exercise, etc.... It provides folks natural care products as well. WHAT A HOLISTIC EXPERIENCE!

Try the Nubian Tacos. YUM!
Try the B-Hold Shake! YUM! YUM!

Yes we can!

2008-11-18T22:01:00.001-08:00

1:54:30
Official finish time for the Half Marathon.

Personal Goal: To finish between 2:00:00: to 2:15:00

Mission accomplished...plus I did better than I had expected.

Post-marathon thoughts:

Running the half-marathon was a life-changing experience in many ways. But this life changing experience did not occur over one day... It was the actual training/process of preparation for the run that changed my life...

#1. I learned to eat and drink in moderation. The saying is true, "You are what you eat." Ever since I began to watch what I ate for the run, I felt so much healthier and lighter. I also noticed that my runs felt like I was simply gliding/flying through the city. Sounds all kinds of crazy, but that's the best way I can best describe it. In addition, the burn felt even better when I ran. I didn't feel sluggish. It definitely had to do with the fresh foods I was cooking.

Here's a few things I switched up on my eating habits:
A. I cooked more than ate out. By cooking, I had more control of what I ate because I was in control of deciding what to put in my dishes (more fresh veggies and lean meat)
B. FRESH VEGETABLE dishes. I realized I frequently bought fresh spinach, tomatoes, red onions, and green beans
C. Cut down on meat (especially red meat---I pretty much cut it out completely); I began to buy extra lean turkey as a substitute
D. Cut out sweets (well, almost completely); I substituted FRESH FRUITS (oranges and apples)---Vitamin C--gotta watch my health too!
E. Ate a lot of whole grains/whole wheat---bread, oatmeal, brown rice, pasta, etc.
F. Took multi-vitamins
G. Drank TEA: White-ginger & pomegranate Green Tea every morning and evening (Republic of Tea Brand from World Market)

I must say... after a month and a half, I felt renewed...I felt better...and had a bit more energy. I noticed that once the crazy meat and sugar was cut, I no longer felt like I was dragging my body when I ran.

#2: Mind over Matter

I truly believe anyone can run. Just like it is for everything in life, running is like 95% mental; 5% physical. I just kept telling myself that it will get easier.... and the more I trained...the more I made it part of my weekly habit, the easier it got. Next thing I knew, I was improving on my form and time.

I also found my form of meditation--running distance. I never understood the concept of meditation (free of thoughts) until I finally experienced it in my run.. Especially when i began to focus on the rhythm of my footsteps...I reached that point of meditation... It was cathartic...which was especially helpful during the stressful two months of teaching.

#3: Continue Healthy living
After the run, I felt a great sense of accomplishment. Like I could conquer the world or something (not in an imperialist kinda way).... Initially I wanted to binge eat (Oinksters, Big Tomy's, cookies, etc. etc.), but I felt the benefits of eating well...and it was a hard task to change the old eating habits. I did NOT want to just throw it all away. It's so easy to get back to the habit of eating nesty! Instead, I want to eat in moderation.

Overall, this experience was a challenge of the self.... A self-refinement---of mind, body, soul (cheesy, but true).
It goes beyond the run...

Few pics. before the run and after the run:

Pickin' up the bibs

Eating carne asada fries and a california burrito with mom, inang, and sister

7 Years

2008-11-07T23:38:00.000-08:00

2001: My first year as an undergrad at UCLA. I was just one click away from sensual feelings.

But then I stopped. I thought to myself, how am I going to get there??? I don't know anyone who can drive me from campus to heaven. Plus, I didn't want to get into any bus or taxi in LA at the time (give me a break, I just came from isolated suburban/rural Riverside...public transpo is NOT a norm over there).

So I figured, eh. He'll come back soon. I'll catch him again.

One year passed me by...

Second year passed me by...

Third year passed me by...

FACK!!!

Fourth year passed me by..

and then.

I gave up.
I regretted that day in 2001.

2008: 7 years since he was here....

MAXWELL AT THE SHRINE!!!! NOVEMBER 1ST.
The best effen show ever.
The eruption of women as they screamed for Maxwell on the floor made the whole entire Shrine auditorium VIBRATE. No joke.

And when he entered with "Get to Know Ya.." IT WAS OVER!

And just as I imagined, PANTIES DROPPED AND WERE THROWN ONTO MAXWELL. (Wish I threw mines...or hell, wish I threw myself onto him!)

But what really got me was his encore performance... WHENEVER WHEREVER WHATEVER... It was such a beautiful version----the sound of hearbeats... wow. I was blown away.

The lighting was beautiful too... I loved the contrast between him "sepia" (ha) and the blue....

Check out the video CG and I captured (that white "towel" on his behind is actually some big mama's underwear. lol)

I LOVE HIM. Best show in 2008. Now I just have to find out where in LA Maxwell lives.

PS... I love how Maxwell has some swagger. NIIICE.

Obama-hood

2008-11-07T23:34:00.000-08:00

I wish I can take credit for discovering this video, but I must give credit where it's due. Thanks C to the G for sharing this hilarious, creative, and fun video.

"Vote Obama" by TI$A (Kanye West, Jay Z, Travis Barker, Shepard Fairey) @ Yahoo! Video

The World Breathes Again

2008-11-07T23:16:00.001-08:00

New Delhi, India

Kogelo, Kenya (Obama's Step Grandmother)

Indonesia

Manila, Philippines

The World Breathes Again

It’s amazing how emotional this election was. It’s amazing how one was able to capture the hearts and minds of the world. I know he is not the first. I know he comes after those who paved the way for him. But I know he is the first in my lifetime to move millions of people, and I am one of those millions.

I was fortunate enough (thanks to Anneli), to have been able to experience the sunrise at the Hyatt. It was an exhilarating feeling to share the moment we’ve all been waiting for all our lives: the announcement of President-elect Barack Obama. The entire room erupted with elation. It was insane! Everyone danced in pure happiness and hugged strangers. It was at that moment that nothing seemed to matter----the prejudices people had of others…..the “natural” segregation of communities based on “likeness” seemed to have disappeared at that moment, and we felt the oneness… We all just wanted to share happiness together. He sure knows how to bring a cross-section of communities together.

Unfortunately, that feeling of “oneness” and “prejudices aside” was sucked away at the discovery of the passage of Prop. 8. And to think I was naïve to believe that people would just know better by now that Prop. 8 is an outright discriminatory measure and that it would not gain enough support to pass. Unfortunately, we can’t “win it all” huh? But I guess in some way Obama’s election gave us another wind of strength and hope to fight this injustice.

I flash back to the beginning of this school year. One of the very first introductory units to World History was on democracy. I recall asking my students to write a 1-2page essay on several essential questions throughout the unit, “What is democracy? What type of government structure do you think we have? Is it working? Why or why not?”

After reading all 100+ papers, I was disheartened and angered. I was disheartened and angered because most of their responses spoke of their truth. And their truth goes something like this:

“I don’t know much about the government, but I can tell you about
my experiences here. I don’t think the government cares about us, only
the rich whites. I wish the government can help the immigrants and
understand that we are not here to cause trouble. We are here to make
life better for ourselves. I don’t think it’s fair that some of us work
really hard and we still barely make enough to pay the bills. I think
our government could be better.”

These common responses made me think: Damn, they really don’t have any faith or trust in the government. They are really jaded. They have no hope in their government. And to be honest, I don’t blame them.

Now I fast forward to Election Night. I’m standing in front of the big screen as I listen to President-Elect Obama deliver his acceptance speech. And as he opened up:

Hello, Chicago.

If there is anyone out there who still doubts that
America is a place where all things are possible, who
still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive
in our time, who still questions the power of our
democracy, tonight is your answer.

It hit me. Could this be the hope and change that my students have been longing for and screaming for in their papers? Could this be the time in which they can restore their faith in this government?

And after the acceptance speech was said and done, and as Anneli, Aylene, Marking, and I walked back to the car in the sharp crisp cold air, I felt a sense of renewal. I felt a sense of new beginnings. And I felt nothing but genuine goodness around me.

The world breathes again.
And they too smiled and cheered when Obama was announced the next President of the United States.

I'm Alive.

2008-10-28T23:53:00.000-07:00

and well.

just a check-in.

Be back soon...

ps....

Girl Talk puts on a gawt damn good show. His blends/"mash-ups" are effen cray-cray. He's freakin' cray-cray himself! I must say that was prob. one of the most exciting and fun shows I have been to in a long time. (thanks CG)

I'm looking forward to my lover, Maxwell on Saturday. hahaha.

3 musical artists I want to see before I die or before they die:

1. Stevie Wonder
2. Prince
3. Maxwell

GOOD NIGHT.

I Miss Her

2008-10-07T20:48:00.000-07:00

So...I was LPing for Womyn's Studies...(doing a unit on Voice and what being a Woman of Color means...) and I stumbled upon a woman who I grew up listening to...and looking up to....

I remember chillin' with my "homegirls" back in middle school and playing "Next Lifetime" over and over in one of the homegirl's bedroom....we would sing it with our eyes closed, head tilting side to side--- acting as if we were really feelin' Badu's soul. lol.

classic.

I always wondered how she had two cool brothas in her life, Dre and Common... and they let her go...or she let them go...or it was mutual.. or she's just cray-cray like that... that's always a mystery.

Next question for you all:

Which do you think was a better album:

A) Baduizm
B) Mama's Gun

I'd have to say that I slightly like Mama's Gun better... Although I love Baduizm... But for some reason, I can really play every single track through on Mama's Gun.... and really say, "ugggh... yeeeahh.." (as every track drops) haha.

off topic: Obama just knows how to break down complex issues in a way that everyone can understand and connect to.

Budget.

2008-10-05T15:27:00.000-07:00

As much as I don't want to admit this... LIFE is about budgeting.

And in the midst of the financial crisis in this country and within this state, budgeting is the only thing we can do right now...

(Which, by the way, in my opinion, proves capitalism, the economic system that the US prides itself in since its inception, failed us...has been failing us...and has not been brought to "public attention" [aka gov't attn.] attention until the top 10% is feeling its claws)....

Crazy as this sounds, if one does not budget some time to do some budgeting, one will realize how crucial the conscious act of budgeting is! ha.

For the past months, I have been trying to budget. This is a difficult task, but is most definitely imperative in adult living!

I hate to see the end of the month. I hate to see the end of the month because I slowly see my monthly allowance deplete... My regular utility bills and rent take an early bite and I eat fairly well during the beginning-middle month...and then my hungry ass loan takes the biggest bite in the end of the month... I see how my meals begin to differ from the beginning of the month to good ol' PB & jelly sandwiches or tuna. Luckily I don't mind it, I actually dig the PB & Jelly...and tuna.... But I realized I really need to be much more mindful of my spending... Scraping off a few dollars here and there goes a long way...So I just need to be smarter... I even changed my calling plan just to save an extra $20. I really need to stick with grocery shopping and/or cooking throughout the weeks rather than going out to eat...

Which then brings me to another dimension of budgeting. But before I go there, I want to talk about something else real quick. ha.

This lifestyle, though I know others/most have it worse than I do, is what makes Obama appealing and the candidate of choice. His platform, his rhetoric, speaks to folks with this dilemma. How can one NOT gravitate towards his platform? At this point, in light of our economy, how can one NOT want change?

Ok...back to budgeting on a personal level.

Cooking is also another aspect of budgeting. I've got to budget that time to cook. Cooking indeed is cathartic (which, is also important for crazy ass workaholics like myself), but it does take time to clean and prepare food, wash dishes, etc. etc. Of course cooking is a lot healthier and cost efficient, but not as time efficient... But I guess I really have to budget time for that!

Health. So to maintain a healthy living, I need to budget time for running again. I have not been able to find a consistent schedule of running since school started. This is also crucial. But where can I fit running before the sun goes down? I stay after school to grade and LP...by the time I get home it's dark... I'm tired.. and if I want to cook... where on earth can I budget time?

Friends. I love my friends. I miss my friends. And one must budget time for that. I know I have not been so great at that for the past month. And one way I can spend time with friends is sharing a meal with them, which of course again is usually/always is going out to eat... Which again brings me back to my first dilemma of trying to cook... But if we're tired from working, going out to eat is the best option...

Budgeting, a necessity, but a challenge. Anyone have any tips?

The 'hustle': 1st month check-in

2008-10-04T09:26:00.000-07:00

Damn.

It's been a month since the 1st day of school. It kicked my ass in many ways. I've been trying to figure out why this first month of teaching seemed more challenging than my other two years of teaching. I thought teaching was supposed to get "easier" by the 3rd year. Apparently I feel that I got worse...or something like that. I find myself lesson planning up until the bell rings... I find myself making copies during lunch...I find myself lesson planning to the end of lunch... I just find myself STRAIGHT HUSTLIN.

Day after day I've been reflecting why my days feel like I've been constantly trying to pull myself out of quicksand. Day after day I reflect upon why I feel like I'm not teaching to my potential. Day after day I reflect upon why it feels like "learning" is not happening in my classroom....Day after day I reflect upon what makes this first month different from my other "first month" the past two years.... and all I can come up with is that I friggin teach 4-5 different subjects. This is insane.

I start off my day with a 9th grade advisory class where I teach the adorable young "fresh out of middle school" students "the 'path' to a successful high school career." I feel like this is a crucial class because I've noticed that the 9th graders really do take in everything the teacher says as gold. I am ultra-conscious of "setting a good example" for these students... I am ultra-conscious of following through with my instructions and discipline...bc I do not want them to cont. high school thinking they can slack off. This class I really have to make sure I'm on point. Basically, I have a different "AD-ult" mind set with the 9th graders.

Then within the 5mins. passing period I have to switch my mindframe from 9th grade teacher mode to 10th grade Honors World History. This is where I now need to go from "life skills" mode to "critical problem-posing the world" mode. I defn. need to meet my students needs. They signed up for honors. They want to be challenged. They want to think critically about the world. And we do. And it's great.

Then within the 5mins. passing period, I switch to my "regular" World History class (x2), which of course I continue the "critical problem-posing the world" mode, but now I deal with apathy, lack of motivation, silence, blank-stares, and slight behavior problems. So I need to switch it up and throw in some 'disciplinarian' mode. grr.

Then lunch comes along. And now I'm preparing/lesson planning/making copies for my AP Gov't class and Women Studies class.

Then AP Govt begins right after lunch. Then I have to go from global to local...It's defn. exciting to teach AP Govt during the election season. It's just challenging to keep up with everyday politics in the elections... at the same time finding ways to integrate the elections to understanding the way government and politics work within the election framework. YES. it's cool to discuss the debates...to discuss the issues...to discuss the candidates... but how do I go about explaining/integrating media biases, the electoral college system, primary election system, why the bill failed in the house (structure of congress)... etc. etc....as we talk about the updates of the elections? sure it is defn. more exciting and relatively easier in the season, but at the same time, there is NO TIME. we can literally sit in the classroom and discuss our thoughts and analysis of the financial crisis, mortgage crisis, etc. etc. which can take the whole entire period.. BUT... WHERE IN THE WORLD WAS I ABLE TO FIT IN teaching the framework of governance in which all these topics fall under? EH. HUSTLIN. PLUS... they need to know this for their AP exam...

Then I have 5mins. to switch my mind set to WOMYN'S STUDIES mode. This of course is waaaaay different from any of the classes I teach. This is a deep/complex course. This is a course none of the hs students ever took or will ever take in their lives. Now I must be ultra gender sensitive... be able to discuss feminist issues.... deconstruct misogyny, sexism, objectification, etc. etc. ... I LOVE IT.. But i realized.... that it's challenging to be switching mindsets and roles over and over everyday...

I feel like my students are receiving the short-end of the stick this year. I will not give up though. (Sounds cheesy).... But I refuse to be defeated with my schedule. But at the same time, this is INSANE and no teacher should be teaching this many subjects.

I hope and believe that these next months will get better...and I will figure out to work with my schedule.. and not feel like these multiple persons....and sleep early.. or get a good night's rest.. I hope to feel one.... like all these subjects just work together seamlessly... But again, these subjects bring in different maturity and behavior levels... which will always offest things.. ahhh...

Happy 85th Birthday, INANG!

2008-09-21T15:04:00.000-07:00

"Thanks for the balloons, CG!"--Inang

"Thanks for coming out, everyone!" --Inang

"Thanks for the flowers, Jane"--Inang

"BAM! HOW YOU LIKE ME NOW?? I'M 85!"--Inang

She was born in 1923. Think about everything that happened in the world, in this country, in this state, in this city, in this community, in this household, and in our life since 1923...She's experienced through it all!

I applaud Inang for everything she has experienced in her life so far... And I'm excited to share the upcoming years with her.

Based on observations, I think her secrets to a long life are:

A) A witty sense of humor & laughter
B) Compassion
C) Humility
D) Love
E) Generosity
F) Courage

And lastly (hope this makes sense).....

The ability to be PATIENT on cultivating the land (of all kinds, and in any type of weather), planting seeds, and watering the earth to bear fruit to feed the family for generations... (I mean this in every literal and figurative sense)....

On Marriage

2008-09-14T00:01:00.001-07:00

-Kahlil Gibran

You were born together, and together you shall be forevermore.
You shall be together when the white wings of death scatter your days.
Ay, you shall be together even in the silent memory of God.
But let there be spaces in your togetherness,
And let the winds of the heavens dance between you.

Love one another, but make not a bond of love:
Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.
Fill each other's cup but drink not from one cup.
Give one another of your bread but eat not from the same loaf
Sing and dance together and be joyous, but let each one of you be alone,
Even as the strings of a lute are alone though they quiver with the same music.

Give your hearts, but not into each other's keeping.
For only the hand of Life can contain your hearts.
And stand together yet not too near together:
For the pillars of the temple stand apart,
And the oak tree and the cypress grow not in each other's shadow.

(Now that is how I imagine love and marriage to be...Kahlil Gibran knows whats up!)

Love so simple and wholesome.

2008-09-13T22:26:00.000-07:00

Simplicity is often taken for granted and overlooked. But today I just witnessed and experienced one of the most beautiful and heartfelt weddings... And the best part of it all was: simplicity.

Every aspect of the wedding ceremony was just so peaceful and centered. To be able to smell the scent of the trees that served as the natural backdrop of the brides, to be able to hear the chirping of the birds that flew in the afternoon sky, to be able to see a squirrel crawl through the tree branches as the brides exchanged vows, to be able to listen to the soothing voice of the woman who married Dahlia and Ant, I could not help but be moved. With such an intimate amount of people, I definitely felt the love vibrations transcend from the couple and through us...

I loved how everything about the wedding was so unconventional but a true, honest, and raw reflection of the love Ant and Dahlia share for each other--from the songs selected for the aisle walk... even for Ant herself! It was not the traditional song brides use when they walk the aisle.... Each song was just pure old school soul songs. It was dope!! I enjoyed the poets that came in to share their piece. I enjoyed the transference of love by lighting each attendees' candle while Caldwell's "The Light" played in the background.

I loved how the reception was at the same location...and it felt like a community center... Which is central to livelihood... and central to the brides. But it was decorated so elegantly.. and again, so simple.

Lastly, everyone present had such a good energy. This was defn. a wedding to remember.

So here are some interesting facts about this wedding:

1. I sat right next to Karen Marley. My dumb ass didn't realize it and I introduced myself to her and and asked for her name. No wonder she chuckled a little bit when she said her first name. I still didn't get it. But now that I look back after learning who she was, I could see why she chuckled. I laugh at myself as I type this. But she is beautiful. I think her partner was the DJ of the party... another beautiful woman!

2. Bobby Brown attended the wedding as well. I stood right behind him at the cocktail line. I didn't want to act like a crazy fan. So I played it off like I did with Karen (but only this time I really did recognize Bobby Brown). Bobby (we are on a first name basis now since we did attend the same wedding and all... lol), is dating a woman who happens to be friends with Dahlia.

3. One of the founding moms of Kappa was at the wedding and made a dope slideshow. She works with Ant and Dahlia.

4. I'm really starting to dig soul/funk house music more and more...

and... i love how they gave out plant/flower seeds as parting gifts.. and i came up on SUNFLOWERS!!! yay! can't wait to grow them.... too bad i don't have a house. fack!

Students makin' ME cry!

2008-09-11T19:06:00.001-07:00

Subject: World History

The journal entry question was:

"What type of gov't system do we have? Does it work? Why or why not?"

After a good 10minutes of my students passionately speaking about how they feel the gov't is unfair and that it's all "white rich people" representing them..... I asked a follow-up question:

"Why do you always blame white people? Why are they the first to blame why you're unsatisfied with the govt?"

Students' response:

"Because if you look at the TV, that's mostly what you see."

So I ask:

"Then how did that happen? Why is it always white people that you see?"

Then after a few minutes of back and forth discussion, a student raises her hand and says,

"Miss, the reason why we say white people all the time is because we're not racist or anything. It's just that if you look at the government, if you look at who's in the White House, if you look at who's in power in the US, it's mostly white people."

At that moment, I was blown away. Damn, she's good.

Then I asked, "Then how did this happen?"

Another student said:

"Miss, maybe bc they've always had it. Since history. Since when they came. I mean, look back during the early times of this country.... Who owned the slaves? Who owned the people of color? The whites."

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is why we study history.

Class...DISMISSED!

Makin' Students Cry

2008-09-11T18:35:00.000-07:00

Womyn's Studies Class: On Gender Politics

Objective: To provide a safe space for the ladies and young men to share their experiences in class.

Since the beginning of the class (last week), we covered the terms MISOGYNY AND OBJECTIFICATION (fully loaded terms). We analyzed music video, song lyrics, and ads. I realized many of the young ladies do not speak as much as the young men. This is of no surprise, since I find this common in all my classes. But what is interesting is that the young men are far beyond outnumbered in the class, yet still dominate the conversation in class.

Aware of this, I wanted to split the young men and ladies up for an activity. I had the young men go to one room (supervised by a male teacher) and the ladies stay with me.

The topic question for the students to discuss for the day was:

YOUNG MEN: What do you want the ladies to know or understand about you? (Can be personal &/or general).

LADIES: What do you want the young men to know or understand about you? (Particular to the general).

After all students actively wrote out their responses, I collected all the male responses and put it in one pile. I collected all the female responses and put it on another pile.

Then I set the ground rules:

"Young men, you are to take this pile anonymously written from the ladies and read each response. But as you read this, do not be on the defense. Read it with understanding and compassion. In order to do this, you must read it by trying to understand what the ladies are going through. They wrote from experience, so please honor that and be mindful of why they feel the way they do."

(Then I nominated a student whom I know will facilitate a discussion amongst his male classmates.)

"To the ladies: the same rules apply.... Be mindful of where the young men are coming from."

So I sent the young men off and the ladies stayed with me. We set up the classroom in a circle---to form more of an intimate discussion setting. (**side note: When I checked in with the males, they were all huddled by the marker board sitting on top of the desks and writing what looked like a "game plan." It was kind of cute--bc they looked all serious...But, I bring this up bc their set-up was totally different from ours..) I gave each of the ladies a response from the males and we read each one. The majority stated this:

"Not all guys are assholes. Some guys are really sweet. It's not fair that if you had a bad experience, you assume we are all like that."

We (the ladies and I), honored that.

Then something happened as we all started discussing what the males wrote... We got into our struggles as women... And we began to talk about our fears.... then all of a sudden, young ladies started to look away and cry... One STRONG WOMAN spoke up about something she experienced... and the next thing I know, half of the women were crying...Some ladies got up and ran out to the bathroom, and I was touched.

I was touched bc this young lady used her voice and for the first time spoke about her experience. I was touched bc the other ladies were crying either bc they experienced the same thing, or bc they empathized with her bc of the shared struggles we face as women.

I was touched bc this would not have happened if we did not separate the males and the females for this particular exercise. I was touched bc they finally felt safe to speak about deep issues...

I was touched bc I felt this strong sense of support for each other...And half don't even know each other..

I was touched bc that experience in class reemphasizes the importance of having a Womyn's Studies class. It reconfirms why providing a safe space for women (esp. young women in HS), to speak....

And to the young men, I heard they had a good discussion in their room. I heard some of them admitted to their faults...and were identifying (as they sorted through what each of the females wrote) the following: A) What women need/want. B)How a women should be treated.

..More on this tomorrow... I will have a follow-up discussion with them.....

"Life is a gamble."

2008-09-07T23:56:00.000-07:00

.....as the saying goes...

had a conversation with my dad regarding life insurance (yes, good ol' pops having an adult convo. with his 25-yr old daughter-lol). As he was breaking down the different types of life insurance (termed, real, whole), I could not help but conjure up slot machine/vegas-table images in my mind. After a good session with my dad, I realized that Life Insurance is like gambling--you're placing some type of bid on your future based upon probability and predictability, hoping (in an odd way in this context) to get the best outcome.

btw--Sunday was Grandparents' Day! Hope you all honored your grandparents! (How do I know this random info?) MY MOM TEXT ME! haha. she's funny. she even busted out the calendar to show me. Sure enough, it said, "Grandparents Day" for September 7, 2008.

Good night.

Back to the grind.

2008-09-03T20:45:00.000-07:00

Summer has officially ended.

And I must say that Summer 2008 has been one of the most fulfilling summers I’ve had in such a long time. I think one of the main reasons why it has been the most fulfilling is because I came into this summer worried that I wouldn’t know what to do with myself! I mean, I wasn’t about to teach summer school, and I tried to take classes at a JC for pottery and Spanish, but the summer session overlapped with my high school’s schedule and my Japan trip, so I didn’t sign up for any classes. Folks still had their 8-5 shifts.. so I was a bit nervous initially…..

Luckily, this summer ended up being a summer of spontaneity. I loved how each day was unexpected, and I loved how I was able to spend it with people I care about and I met some really cool folks along the way. I also thought that I’d be in this drought of music, but this summer was also a summer of music madness sharing (well, folks hooked me up with music from all kinds of genres…….and I didn’t have anything they wouldn’t have-lol). Nonetheless, folks were happy to share their music because music is meant to be shared and listened to anyway!

Highlights of the summer:

1. Japan Trip
2. Bay Area trip (last week of August)
A) time with Liza & DJ Undfine
B) Sat in on Ate Allyson Tintiangco Cubales’ Fil-Am Literature class
C) Ran into an old high school friend whom I haven’t seen since he graduated in 1998 at Poleng
D) Enjoyed the sun at “Doin It at the Park” in Golden Gate Park while drinkin’ REAL Sangria
E) Ran through Golden Gate and had my ass kicked by the homie, Matt.
F) Spent time with my close homegirls
3. Random LA shows---especially the one on top of a rooftop in downtown LA
4. GLOW in Santa Monica with my girls(I dig the concept of chillin’ on the beach while listening to music)
5. Riding my bike around by myself.
6. Red Mango---the best yogurt!
7. Running the Ptown 5k/running in general.
8. Attending Ant’s bachelorette party
9. Attending my cousin’s cousin wedding and reconnecting with my cousins and cool Canadians (esp. my bfff) from my last trip there in ’98 (?)
10. Picking up a cool guest-roommate.
11. Celebrating summer bdays
12. Attending the live taping of ABDC—Janet Jackson challenge
13. Caring the soul….introspective space and time….reflecting constantly…. And finally felt a new sense of liberation.

So in light of all this reflection and introspective summer, I must say that I am blessed, and I am truly grateful to be surrounded by genuinely good people.

Samurai Champloo AMV: Gang Starr-Battle & More!

2008-08-31T21:13:00.000-07:00

Check it out!

This is craaaaazay! I love it! (I know, some of you have been on this for a while now).

Anyone wanna chill and watch Samurai Champloo all weekend long? Let me know! haha.

NUJABES (one of my fav. music producers) got me curious about Samurai Champloo.

Check out the opening credits to Samurai Champloo. Now that's hip hop!

and...another one... i love this song... i love the keys.. i love the artwork... i love the hip-hop undertones..

so check out episode 1, pt. 1 (the first few sequences are dope...i know the DJs would appreciate the "rewind/fastfwd" scratching part and the scene changes.....)

and...for the bboys/bgirls--i know you would appreciate the fighting scene...

McCain's Palin. Not a surprise.

2008-08-30T08:37:00.000-07:00

Despite the media coverage and the crazy somewhat but also true observation of the commodification of Obama in urban pop-culture (come on, we see his face on T-Shirts in Urban Outfitters---like, it's fashionable to rock him [and i'm not hating on that, it's an effective campaign tool, yet also he's becoming an icon like Che)... Obama is not that much ahead of McCain in polls.... It's a close race... And that makes me nervous.

After attending the viewing of Obama's DNC acceptance speech at the Hyatt in SF and feeling so alive in the room (because the room was crazy loud), I must say I was moved. I want to attribute that feeling to the environment I was in and the intro. video of Obama's life, but I also want to give him credit in his gift in public speaking (but Michelle Obama is friggin' amazing! She beats her husband in public speaking by far in my opinion!) After that night, I did feel excited and hopeful....

and then.....

BAM! McCain officially announces his Vice Presidential running mate, Sarah Palin. Good one, McCain. Good one. Is this his stunt in trying to win over the die-hard Hillary Clinton fans? I understand this isn't the first time a woman has been a VP running mate... But given the context of the 2008 election, this is totally different from the 1980s. And on the superficial tip, it doesn't hurt that she's an attractive woman. YES, I SAID IT!

Youth Rise!

2008-08-18T13:30:00.000-07:00

So....I finally finished my submission for Illuminating Voices!

Please check it out on www.bakitwhy.com.

Title: Youth Rise!

Never underestimate the youth!

People always ask me why I teach or what inspired me to go into teaching. If only I had a whole day to explain my purpose in teaching, or deconstruct the oppressive education system the youth are in, or take people into my classroom for a day--but even then I wouldn't know where to begin. I could start off my answer with any of the following (all of which are very much true for me):

A) "Because I believe in the power of the youth."
B) "Because they speak the truth."
C) "Because I learn so much with the youth. We critically analyze the world together. And ultimately, we teach and learn as a collective."

Or.... I can simply just say:

D) "Here, watch this video. You'll be able to see, hear, and feel why I became an educator/facilitator. This is why I am inspired each day, and I hope that you too, will feel the urgency to change this society for the better."

Marvin Gaye, Olympics, Nike, Dope Beat.

2008-08-13T09:38:00.001-07:00

So my guest roommate introduced this video to me...... I was moved. The BEAT of the song is DOPE too..... Someone should sample that beat and flip it!

But while I'm on this Summer Olympics tip, I have got to watch the opening ceremony. I saw bits of it and it just seems all kinds of crazy!

Though I am an avid viewer (and have much to learn about the logistics on the various events and competitions), I must say that I can't help but think about the story behind the Olympics. I can't help but think about the hundreds and thousands of people displaced, the homes demolished, businesses terminated, etc. etc. just to "beautify" and "modernize" China in the past several years---and just to accommodate strangers from all over the world. The people of China were witnessing their own landscape changing---making them feel strangers to their own neighborhoods--communities. It's even crazier to think that the Chinese people gave up their EVERYTHING (homes, businesses, jobs,etc) for the Olympics that last for weeks, and most can't even AFFORD to attend the games themselves! Now that's some shet.

Water of Life. Mother Earth. Fertility. Loyalty.

2008-08-08T17:21:00.000-07:00

Katapara[ng] (baybayin): Loyalty. This year so far has been a year in review. A year of reflection. A year of looking back and learning from my past experiences. A year of realizing and feeling with such intensity the importance of loyalty. Loyalty to one's family. Loyalty to one's companions. Loyalty to one's principles. Loyalty to one's beliefs. Loyalty to one's goals. Loyalty to one's ambition. Loyalty to one's purpose. Loyalty to one's community. Loyalty to one's heart. Loyalty to one's service. Loyalty to one's actions and & words. It's more than just a word to me. It's this crazy passionate goose-bumpy feeling that guides my life. (lol..sounds crazy..but I don't know how else to explain this word!)

check out Blue Scholars' Loyalty song. http://lyricwiki.org/Blue_Scholars:Loyalty

Water design: Refer to Paulo Coelho's, By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept.
Source of Life. Essential to Life.
Feminine face of god.
Pure.
Powerful---nothing can break water apart....and even with an interruption of
rocks or pebbles, it reconnects and continues to flow effortlessly.
Mother Earth----mostly composed of water in all different forms and feeds life.
The earliest civilizations were formed near the waters..

(the left side is a "softer"design of water--which, relatively and geographically speaking, relates to Tagalog region....)

(the right side is a "rougher" design of water---which relates to the harder land of the Ilocos region.........the region in which my family is from)

Fertility Symbol: Womanhood. Womb. Place of origin and development. The sacred power of being able to give life. Historically, a source of "threat" to the oppressor/imperialist/colonizer, but spiritually, a symbol of honor, respect, and divinity.

Red: Potent. The color of bloodshed (and.. our regla! ha..which is also part of being a woman!). and.......SERVE THE PEOPLE.

Left-arm: you know what's crackin'!

I love me some old people working out.

2008-08-08T00:04:00.001-07:00

this shet is HI-LAR-IOUS!!!! HAHA. I LOVE IT!

Go Metro! Go Green!

2008-08-07T08:47:00.000-07:00

..is the catch phrase these days.

So my bestfren from PSP2005 spontaneously came up with the idea of exploring LA through the Metro (subway). Of course being the ultimate "vacationer" of all time, which my profession affords me, I was all for it!

To my surprise (as a regular automobile driver), folks actually do use the Metro! ha. (I know....I know...this bit of reaction on my end exposes how NOT of a public transpo person I am).... In my perspective, as a "first-timer," I felt like I discovered an underground culture---literally and figuratively! ha. BUT.... alas, this "underground culture" has been in existence or in use since for quite some time now (well, at least for the sublines, its been in operation since the 1990s).

It was interesting taking the subway station in LA. I was a bit fascinated throughout the entire experience for the following reasons:

1. The modernized architecture of each station, especially my starting point of Vermont & Wilshire.

2. The unique art (different types) found in each station.

3. The relatively diverse (in age, race, class), yet calm and collected community that created a warm and non-aggressive environment within the subway cars... (bc the freakin' surface streets are a whole different story!)...

4. The subway stations appear to be operating under AN HONOR SYSTEM. Not once have I been checked for a ticket, nor did we have to insert a ticket in any gate..... (So in some way, this is good for the working class folks who are using the subway lines to get around, but I wonder what $ is being used for maintenance..)

5. I felt like a tourist.

It's kind of crazy how perspectives and experiences change with the type of transpo one uses. The stops we took and the streets we walked are areas that I usually drive through....And it's crazy because as an automobile driver, I just pass right through (trying to avoid traffic, and never really take the time to look around). As a public transpo commuter on foot, the world was seen upside down. I felt more invested in the different communities I was exploring---perhaps it's because traffic was not an issue for me, and walking around afforded me to just relax and appreciate the people and the streets.

6. I want to take the metro all the way to Long Beach next time.

Addicted....

2008-08-02T11:15:00.000-07:00

to RUNNING/JOGGING!

so... i just realized that i think i'm addicted to running. all i do is think about running/jogging. i get worried when i make plans with folks and wonder: where can i fit my run? lol.

Last week my twin and i decided to run a different route. To our surprise we ended up running around 6.5 miles or so.... We just kept on running!......and RUNNING! (I know for some crazy runners, 6.5 mi is "nothing", but... that's a big improvement for us!)

what's going on here?

twin and i just finished the 5K in PTown. It was a really good experience for the following reasons:

1. I got to see familiar faces---folks from UCLA that graduated before i did.......and a few after....
2. I got to run on the streets that I walked for the JFAV Parade since I was an undergrad at UCLA.
3. I got to hear the community cheering all of us on----folks standing outside their storefronts and homes....smiling and clapping for us...
4. I got to see a little kid (prob. around 5 or 6 years old) cheer his other 5-6year old friend on as he ran ahead of us.....
5. It's cool to see filipinos of all ages come out and walk/run. Filipinos that appear to have come from all over..
6. I met a stalker. wtf? (it's hard to "run away" from a stalker when you are in a run. lol) WHICH, makes me think.... is this the best way to stalk someone? Since... the person could only run faster (which is challenging...or slow down, which could also be challenging...there is no way of avoiding someone there!)

AND....FINALLY.......

7. I got to see Al, Mr. PCORE himself. lol. That always brings a smile to my face or a chuckle in my life!

Shameless Ad:
The weekly gals and I want to make running a part of our lives. If you want to join us, please let me know! We are adding it permanently into our schedules.... Plus, you can save on a gym membership!

LL Cool J and the Elderly

2008-07-31T23:39:00.000-07:00

I had to post this ASAP.

So I just watched MTV's America's Best Dance Crew (my guilty pleasure....my obsession..) and had a kick watching the MTV commercial on LL Cool J's video with the elderly!!!!! LOL. I LOVED IT! I mean, one part was kind of scary where LL started to rub one of the old woman's thighs, but hey, whatever makes her feel young again! haha. jp

Anyway, besides being blown away by Fanny Pak's performance, I was actually just blown away by LL's pool party video with the elderly!!!!!

The skinny gramz with the pink cap and floral one piece is CRAAAZY! haha.

Damn. Now that's some crazy stuff!

I am now posting the youtube link so you all can see it......(Well, this version is not exactly what I saw on MTV since this is a commentary "behind the scenes" video)....

Enjoy!

oh! ps.. I also updated my photobucket with a couple more albums---one including the "YOUTHFUL ELDERLY".... I'll bring that in tomorrow with a discussion about it bc that album explains why I came back super hardcore into running and staying in shape and being healthy.

here's the youtube link!

LL Cool J MTV Behind the Scenes

or

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rh_W-4sCc7E

O.P.C--Meet the 1st Generation!

2008-07-28T22:00:00.000-07:00

Picture on top far right: "Mamang" (Villarin's grandma-L) and Inang (my grandma!-R) at the Desconso Gardens...
This is the first day they
ever met. So cute! I luh!

What is O.P.C?
OPC is an acronym for Old People Crew.

What is the purpose of OPC?
The purpose of OPC is to get all the old people together (our homies---our lifelong friends and partners, etc.) and hit up all the senior discount festivities that this "great nation" has "offered" the elderly. For example, OPC must take advantage of all senior discounts on movie tickets, restaurants, museums, etc. etc. The purpose of OPC is to LIVE. The purpose of OPC is to LIVE STRONG. The purpose of OPC is to LIVE YOUNG. Age is also mental. So OPC must think young to feel young! Finally, OPC serves as a support group/network for all the elderly. OPC must be present for each other because aging can be lonely if we allow ourselves to be lonely. As an OPC member, we should not allow ourselves to be stuck at home! We should be outside to enjoy the sun! Having other fellow OPC members around could make that effort to get up that much easier....... and together help each other live longer!

What is the ultimate mission for OPC?
The ultimate mission for OPC is to be "pro-life," meaning, we are all about staying alive!!!!! =) So we are flippin' that term, "pro-life!"
In order to make it as an OPC, we must take care of our health NOW!!! In order to be active, we must exercise regularly and be more careful of what we eat! What we do now affects our future and the strength of OPC!

How do I become a member of OPC?
In order to become a member, you MUST take a symbolic vow NOW to take care of your health, so that you can live the age of "qualification" to become an OPC member. In addition, think about the community in which you want to live in. I'm sure you would want to form a community with your lifelong friends and partners, so that our kids could grow up together and be surrounded with strong principled folks.....and we continue to live and grow and support each other when we get old! =)

Is this OPC legit?
Oh hell yeah. hahaha. For all of you that know me, you know OPC is going to happen! The pictures above and below is the 1st generation of OPC! They made it! haha. They made the qualifications!

PS---
If you have any lolas or lolos hanging around that you know, let me know! Let's get them together once a month!
....and..... I will be posting the rest of the pics that day with Mamang and Inang on photobucket soon...

Japan Photo Albums

2008-07-22T16:07:00.000-07:00

Alright..... So, this is my first time that I ever used photobucket or any photo host sites... I didn't know that it takes forever to upload.... I have many more albums to go, but here are just a few to get a taste of Neck and Chres' adventures.....

Instructions:

1. Please click on the link below or copy and paste.
2. Once the window pops up for this address, please click on "japan" on the left side under albums. The pictures that will load up are pictures in Aizuwakamatsu (Amber's "hood")...
3. After you do that, other albums will pop up. If you don't know where to begin, check out the Yoyogi Park and Harajuku album first..... I thought it was a really fun and interesting day... You'll see... and then go ahead and look through the other albums at your leisure.... I will be adding more.... Enjoy.

http://s354.photobucket.com/albums/r425/chres_ten/

Top Ten Reasons why Japan had an impact on me..

2008-07-22T13:26:00.000-07:00

First, I want to introduce my pal, Neck. We
shared this experience together. What a fun
travel partner. (Arrival day).
We went to Aizu, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Second, I want to introduce the main reason why I visited Japan sooner than I thought:

Meet Amber. She was on the JET program. She taught in
Aizuwakamatsu (which is North of Tokyo).

Top Ten Reasons why Japan had an impact on me:

1. The undying Genuine politeness, friendliness,
courteousness, and generousness the Japanese
shared with us---everybody.

2. The youthful and strong elderly

Climbing to the Kiyomizudera Temple.

3. The cute, spirited, and fearless children.

4. Their sense of "Communal Solitude"--respecting and sharing space, while enjoying the silence (usually in trains, buses, etc.)

5. A hearty and healthy meal. (oops. Imagine this pic. flipped rightside up). haha.

And the ceremony of drinking TEA!

6. Dedication to preserving historical monuments.
(Rokuon-Ji Temple/Golden Temple)

In Kyoto..

7. Their conscious effort in being eco-friendly.

In every possible way.....

8. Honoring NATURE.

(found in Fushimi Inari)

On the walk back down from Kiyu Temple..

9. Their sense of creativity and bold expression through various forms of art.....

Hip-Hop emcees at Yoyogi Park
(I'll upload their performance soon...)

Japanese Greaser?

Random street art..

A painter who air scratches and dances?! check out his equipment!
(I'll upload his performance too. haha. It's crazy!)

But most of all........

This guy beats all "Harajuku gals".. What is this!? haha. I love it!
That's crazy!

10. Their innovative, daring, well thought-out, and functional architectural design.

Kyoto Station. The craziest! Has a mall, a sky garden, movie theater, and hotel! What?! Now that's CRAZ-AY!

11. (ok... ok... I said top "ten" but I NEED to squeeze in the 11th):
Their EFFICIENT, ORGANIZED, and Punctual Public Transportation system! It's so mind bloggering how it's on time, crowded... yet organized! (Organized Chaos)

JR passes. A MUST! DON'T
LEAVE U.S. WITHOUT ONE!
TOOK US EVERYWHERE!!

Japan, Part I

2008-07-22T13:04:00.000-07:00

It's been tough to accurately describe my experience in Japan. It's been difficult because it was such a transgressive and transformative experience for me. How can one really explain a photo like the one you see here with words? I promised all of you (dear friends of mine!), that instead of attempting to do injustice onto this world by describing Japan through words, I will share my photos and videos. Hopefully you all can see what I saw, or at least have some insight to the beauty of Japan.......

For the next few days, as I slowly organize my photo albums, I will be posting up sections of Japan.... I've organized it into themes.... So I will do the best I can to provide some background to what you see, but hopefully you will be able to take in more meaning as you look through the pictures....

Check back ever so often to this blog to see if I've updated with more pictures..... My personal favorite album, "The Youthful Elderly," will be up next week!!!!! Haha. Gosh, that album explains why I came back wanting to change my lifestyle here in the US..... I'll explain later...

In the beginning......

2008-07-21T11:37:00.000-07:00

Ok. Here goes my first entry of "All Kinds of Crazy!"
I guess I should first explain why I finally decided to enter the blogger world and hopefully that will also explain the title of my blog.

2008, since the beginning, has been very unpredictable. It's an uncomfortable type of unpredictable (esp. since I'm the type of person who likes to have things mapped out ahead of time), yet, for some reason, has been one of the most exciting years I've experienced in a while.

Exciting because I really do not know what to expect..... and when it comes, the experience is just.....CRAZY!

Crazy, meaning, I do not know what to make of it at first.......
Crazy, meaning, it's mind boggling! or shall I say, "mind 'bloggering'" (ha!)
Crazy, meaning, I have not encountered such a thing like this before...
Crazy, meaning, I have to document this because I need to process this and share with people....
Crazy, meaning, it's way cool! (and I wish the homies were able to experience this with me)

So......... Summer 2008 has been such a CRAZY time. And it's only July. I must say I have experienced some mind-bloggering things and I have been able to capture those experiences with my camera.

What really prompted me to start a blog was these past two weeks since I've been back from Japan..... I attended events or done some things that were crazy-cool each day and everything happened so fast that I really didn't have the time to sit and process it all through and relish the moments. I also found myself wanting to describe these cool things with my friends, but couldn't find the right words to describe the feeling....

I also noticed that I documented these things and would import it all straight to my external hardrive, further tucking away these experiences..FOR--EV-ER!! I figured that I might as well find a space to post up, so I can share the experience through photo/video while explaining with a few words......

So I'll start off with posting pictures from Japan (I'm currently organizing them now into themes)....... and then posting up the ALL KINDS OF CRAZY thereafter...

Thanks for sharing worlds!