My dad loves the ocean. He can just sit next to the shore and watch the waves crash in for hours. It seems to both calm and excite him at the same time. On every family trip to Monterey or Half Moon Bay, he parks the car next to the shoreline and goes out there and sits on a rocky bluff meditating on the waves. He'll try to get the rest of us out of the car, but my mom, brother, and I will usually say no, content with the view from our seats.
He has told me that it brings back old memories of being at the beach with his own dad; clamming and smelt fishing with extended family and other Portuguese-American people. It is also a timeless reminder of something larger than our problems and our lives, something that’s constant and ever changing at the same time. Looking out into the ocean, life seems to make a little more sense.
The sea calls to him…and with a lighter tug, it calls to me too. We both could not fathom living anywhere too far from the ocean. His grandparents were from small volcanic islands out in the Atlantic, the Azores and Madiera. Some left the Azores for Hawaii, and all eventually settled in California…but never did they go too far from the sea. They kept their heritage with them; they adapted it to new places and times, but never forgot where they came from. American Azoreans, I’ve heard, have very sad music that’s filled with a longing for the place they once called home.
My dad and I talked about this long before I read the passage from La Maravilla that is typed in the previous entry, that so accurately described the way we felt. That’s why to both of us being categorized as “White” feels awkward and untrue. “White” feels empty. It means nothing. It was created as term to distance one class from the other on the basis of skin tone. Portuguese means something; it’s a culture and heritage that is real. Mexican means something; it’s an ancient word that was here before the Spaniards ever were.
~~~~
I am a Perry and a Perriera. I am also a Sias. I have the blood of the Morenos,’ the Lardizabals,’ and Goies’ running through me. I am a mix of a mixture. You could say I’m half & half but when you dissect those halves you find more underneath. I look at the photos of my very dark “Mexican” grandpa’s grandparents and I see a white man with a red moustache and a brown woman with the physical features of one who has always lived here. My skin color and facial features are the product of Portuguese and Flemish blood from the Azores, light-skinned Spaniards, dark skinned Apache, and some other unknown indios, maybe Aztecs, from Mexico. Who knows what else? I am all those things and none of them at the same time.
What I know is that I am from here, a native son of California. But part of me came here from halfway across the world. Another part only recently came from the copper mines of New Mexico. And although it’s likely neither part wanted to leave the place they came from, I cannot look down upon those who are here from somewhere else…if they are here for the right reasons.
But nevertheless, some percentage of me has been here in the Americas for thousands of years. Maybe it is that part of me that grounds me… that makes me care so much for the place I was born. No matter where life takes me, although I doubt I'll ever let it take me too far, my heart will always be here.
~~~
On a trip to San Francisco earlier this summer...I found myself pulling a "dad." I forced my cousins and brother to park at the shore of the Golden Gate in the Presidio so I could take some pictures from the wharf. I didn't actually take any photos. I just went out to the shoreline and then on to the fishing pier, taking in the wind, the waves, and the fog rolling in from under that great bridge while my cousins and brother waited patiently near the car.
~~~
See them depart
the young and the old
in search of fortune
in other parts
in other breezes
among other peoples
the young and the old
See them depart
with moistened eyes
and saddened heart
pack on the back
hope in the hilt
and golden dreams
see them depart
with moistened eyes
They'll return some day
rich or not
telling stories
of far off lands
where sweat
was made bread
They'll return some day
Or not
(An Azorean Song by Manuel Freire)
(Translation by Adiaspora.com)
(a very long post, for the end of the first year of this blog)
Monday, September 08, 2003
“Abuelo,” the boy interrupted, “is it true I am an American? Vernetta says I’m a Mexican but also an American.”
“Yes, you are American, but not in the gringo sense.”
“How do you become Mexican or American?”
This opened the old man’s eyes and the chair froze suddenly in midrock.
“You are Spanish and Yaqui, you are a mestizo from Aztlan, this land, right here where the Nahua people began.” He stamped his foot into the packed earth.
“This is what a Mexican is. But you were born here in America, tambien, and that’s what a Chicano is. You don’t become nothing. It’s only the gringos that become! They are Xipe,” he said, referring to the ancient god of new growth beneath the old, the god the Aztecs distorted into the God of the Flayed Skin. It was Manueal’s word for those people on earth who do not know where they belong.
“They become other religions like choosing a hat and become other names that have no connection to places they live. They become the things they own or the cars they drive. They say that they are one-third this and one-quarter that and their ancestors came from such and such, but they don’t know nothing about them. They have no stories. They have no tribe. Their camp fire is a goddamn television. You” – he pointed at the boy now – “you know where your blood has been for the last ten thousand years, mijo. There are words and songs, palabras y canciones, that tell you and explain to you.
“You do not become American, no, no. Shit, no. American becomes you, mijo.”
He closed his eyes, inhaled deeply through his nose, then pointed over his shoulder.
“Do you smell that, mijo? The tortillas and the frijoles and the chorizo? No matter where you go, to places I know I will never see, when you walk past a doorway or a window and one of those smells hits you, you will come back here to this place and this time. Always. And that is just smell. There are things far deeper than smell.”
“Are you American, Abuelo?”
“No. I am not American. I am not Mexican. In fact, I think I am no longer Yaqui. Shit, I can’t tell you nothin’ for real. I’m nowhere now.”
He leaned back, the anger in his leather face subsiding, and he exhaled slowly, a small hitch near the end of it caused by an old drawn-out affair with Chesterfield nonfilters. Like a ghost, his pain had come into the room. Josephina by the stove felt it and stopped her moving. She stood silently looking for an insect or a snake, on her face a mixture of distress and resignation.
“You see, boy, these people up here around us are so mixed up now that no one belongs, even though this is their country, our country. Do you see?”
“Leave him alone, Manuel,” Josephina said in a hissing voice.
“You can be in the wrong place,” he continued in spite of her warning.
“Your whole life, all of it, you can be in the wrong place and not know it because you’ve lost the power to know where is right. It’s a hard thing to say. I can’t explain.”
He sat back again, composing himself and considering, then nodding to himself. He leaned forward and spoke thoughtfully.
“Someone is in a bus that sways a little on its way up and down the street, and that person is pleased and gets comfort by the swaying.” He moved his dark hand slowly back forth. “It is so comforting that this person takes the bus even when he has nowhere to go. He just rides and rides. Sometimes he stands up and lets the bus roll underneath him.
“Entiendes, hijo? That person, if he had the power, would know that his ancestors were sailors, marineros, and that the sea is calling to him. The sea is trying its best. It’s not just ruts in the road or a bad shock absorber, the sea is calling. The sway of the boat is a small thread of blood, la sangre, that comes up and ties him even when the flesh has fallen away from his dead fathers.
“It’s una brujula en la sangre, a compass in the blood, and it’s a dim command in the blood. And in decades and generations the power to hear it is bargained away in small decisions and small concessions. So he leaves the bus on the street corner and sits at a desk and suffers from something he will never understand. The curanderos will tell him he is depressed or needs a special ceremony or a vacation or something like that, but that’s not it.
“He’ll drink from bottles and sometimes throw things and maybe hit his wife. But at night his spirit throws out a net, and in the morning it’s pulled back torn. And at night the sound of the highway makes him stay awake. It is not the loud rush of the highway.” He pointed the index fingers of both hands at the boy for emphasis. “It’s not the cars or the trucks…it’s the waves, the sound of the sea and the simple people on it. He has forsaken himself by forsaking the sea.”
From: La Maravilla, by Alfredo Vea, Jr.
(I wish I could write like this)
“Yes, you are American, but not in the gringo sense.”
“How do you become Mexican or American?”
This opened the old man’s eyes and the chair froze suddenly in midrock.
“You are Spanish and Yaqui, you are a mestizo from Aztlan, this land, right here where the Nahua people began.” He stamped his foot into the packed earth.
“This is what a Mexican is. But you were born here in America, tambien, and that’s what a Chicano is. You don’t become nothing. It’s only the gringos that become! They are Xipe,” he said, referring to the ancient god of new growth beneath the old, the god the Aztecs distorted into the God of the Flayed Skin. It was Manueal’s word for those people on earth who do not know where they belong.
“They become other religions like choosing a hat and become other names that have no connection to places they live. They become the things they own or the cars they drive. They say that they are one-third this and one-quarter that and their ancestors came from such and such, but they don’t know nothing about them. They have no stories. They have no tribe. Their camp fire is a goddamn television. You” – he pointed at the boy now – “you know where your blood has been for the last ten thousand years, mijo. There are words and songs, palabras y canciones, that tell you and explain to you.
“You do not become American, no, no. Shit, no. American becomes you, mijo.”
He closed his eyes, inhaled deeply through his nose, then pointed over his shoulder.
“Do you smell that, mijo? The tortillas and the frijoles and the chorizo? No matter where you go, to places I know I will never see, when you walk past a doorway or a window and one of those smells hits you, you will come back here to this place and this time. Always. And that is just smell. There are things far deeper than smell.”
“Are you American, Abuelo?”
“No. I am not American. I am not Mexican. In fact, I think I am no longer Yaqui. Shit, I can’t tell you nothin’ for real. I’m nowhere now.”
He leaned back, the anger in his leather face subsiding, and he exhaled slowly, a small hitch near the end of it caused by an old drawn-out affair with Chesterfield nonfilters. Like a ghost, his pain had come into the room. Josephina by the stove felt it and stopped her moving. She stood silently looking for an insect or a snake, on her face a mixture of distress and resignation.
“You see, boy, these people up here around us are so mixed up now that no one belongs, even though this is their country, our country. Do you see?”
“Leave him alone, Manuel,” Josephina said in a hissing voice.
“You can be in the wrong place,” he continued in spite of her warning.
“Your whole life, all of it, you can be in the wrong place and not know it because you’ve lost the power to know where is right. It’s a hard thing to say. I can’t explain.”
He sat back again, composing himself and considering, then nodding to himself. He leaned forward and spoke thoughtfully.
“Someone is in a bus that sways a little on its way up and down the street, and that person is pleased and gets comfort by the swaying.” He moved his dark hand slowly back forth. “It is so comforting that this person takes the bus even when he has nowhere to go. He just rides and rides. Sometimes he stands up and lets the bus roll underneath him.
“Entiendes, hijo? That person, if he had the power, would know that his ancestors were sailors, marineros, and that the sea is calling to him. The sea is trying its best. It’s not just ruts in the road or a bad shock absorber, the sea is calling. The sway of the boat is a small thread of blood, la sangre, that comes up and ties him even when the flesh has fallen away from his dead fathers.
“It’s una brujula en la sangre, a compass in the blood, and it’s a dim command in the blood. And in decades and generations the power to hear it is bargained away in small decisions and small concessions. So he leaves the bus on the street corner and sits at a desk and suffers from something he will never understand. The curanderos will tell him he is depressed or needs a special ceremony or a vacation or something like that, but that’s not it.
“He’ll drink from bottles and sometimes throw things and maybe hit his wife. But at night his spirit throws out a net, and in the morning it’s pulled back torn. And at night the sound of the highway makes him stay awake. It is not the loud rush of the highway.” He pointed the index fingers of both hands at the boy for emphasis. “It’s not the cars or the trucks…it’s the waves, the sound of the sea and the simple people on it. He has forsaken himself by forsaking the sea.”
From: La Maravilla, by Alfredo Vea, Jr.
(I wish I could write like this)
Monday, September 01, 2003
Tonight summer ended with a bang. After years of waiting, I tasted my first Parisian burger.
The Parisian burger is famous in Mountain View gastronomical lore. Once upon a time a burger joint named Linda's served up these burgers with a secret sauce that generations of my family and other Mountain View families greatly enjoyed.
Linda's closed in 85, but you'll still find true-blue (and gray) Mountain Viewers who have spent the past two decades perfecting their own version of the Parisian. One of those people, lucky me, is my uncle.
Word that the Parisian burger was being served at my Uncle Fred and Auntie Rosemary's Labor Day BBQ was enough to bring almost my entire extended family together within a days notice....quite a feat. (As well as some of my uncle and aunts friends from high school who also fondly remembered Linda's.)
The burgers were indeed quite good, as were the fried tater-tots (also a Linda's staple), chili beans, fresh cookies from my Auntie Becky, and watermelon. The company was even better. I'd say there were about 40 or so people there, with at least half being my family. We chilled until sunset, my cousins and I caught up on each others lives, the older generation talked about days gone by. The burgers brought out old memories and stories from those who were alive to eat the originals. Everyone by the end of the night was full and happy. And that was a great way to end a good weekend.
Hello September.
I don't care very much for this month. It's not a bad month...but there just isn't much to it except school starting. And who likes that?I think we should get rid of September and add 10 days to October, November, and December. With all those holidays we could use the extra time and gaps between them.
The last week of summer and the first week of school have come and gone since I last wrote. Lot's a good memories and little trips filled those last days of vacation. A visit from my cousin's Mikey and Vanessa resulted in a random trip to San Francisco. We made Chris drive....only a week after getting his liscense (and a few days after knocking down a part of the neighbor's fence while backing up) He went up and down those hills, including Lombard Street, pretty well. Went to the city again to visit the Asian Art Museum with some of my studio friends. Lot's and lot's of Budhas. And...spent one last evening with my high school friends before going back to Berkeley.
The first week of school has been pretty good. ...except that I signed up for 23 units. Dropping Econ...so down to 19. But that's still a heavy load. I'd like to drop more, but the problem is all my classes seem really interesting and am worried that with the state budget, they might not be offered again. Still gotta figure that out.
Went home after the football game on Saturday (go Bears!). Ended up going to Great America (for free!) with Lesley, Erik, and Dan yesterday. Had a fun time. Tonight there will be a family barbeque over in Roquero-ville (The three-house property where about 11 members of the Roquero branch of my family live) One last hurrah before summer really ends and I start hitting the books.
I don't care very much for this month. It's not a bad month...but there just isn't much to it except school starting. And who likes that?I think we should get rid of September and add 10 days to October, November, and December. With all those holidays we could use the extra time and gaps between them.
The last week of summer and the first week of school have come and gone since I last wrote. Lot's a good memories and little trips filled those last days of vacation. A visit from my cousin's Mikey and Vanessa resulted in a random trip to San Francisco. We made Chris drive....only a week after getting his liscense (and a few days after knocking down a part of the neighbor's fence while backing up) He went up and down those hills, including Lombard Street, pretty well. Went to the city again to visit the Asian Art Museum with some of my studio friends. Lot's and lot's of Budhas. And...spent one last evening with my high school friends before going back to Berkeley.
The first week of school has been pretty good. ...except that I signed up for 23 units. Dropping Econ...so down to 19. But that's still a heavy load. I'd like to drop more, but the problem is all my classes seem really interesting and am worried that with the state budget, they might not be offered again. Still gotta figure that out.
Went home after the football game on Saturday (go Bears!). Ended up going to Great America (for free!) with Lesley, Erik, and Dan yesterday. Had a fun time. Tonight there will be a family barbeque over in Roquero-ville (The three-house property where about 11 members of the Roquero branch of my family live) One last hurrah before summer really ends and I start hitting the books.
Sunday, August 17, 2003
Summer is quickly coming to a close, and just when things are starting to get good. For almost every day of the past week, I've spent the evening at Martin's house hangin out with various combinations of my high school friends. While Martin's knee surgery has kept us from going anywhere, we've had a great time just hangin out....like 'old' times. It's felt really good to be able to spend my evenings with such good company, making new memories instead of thinking about old ones.
I'm really glad summer is ending this way. If it had ended two weeks ago, it would have probably left me bitter and disappointed. But I feel like the cup of summer funness has quickly filled up the past week or so. I'm really happy and relieved that the ties to my oldest friends have been strengthened before another college year of being away from each other.
Today was also my last day working at the Stanford Theatre, as the pic above signifies. It seems like only yesterday that I was being trained to work there. What a big change for me this job has been. I did things I NEVER wanted or thought I would do, like cashier...but I did them anyway and overcame my fears. The job had its down sides, but they were FAR outweighed by the upsides. (I know my family certainly enjoyed the free passes & food) It was a good summer job and I met some nice people through the process.
Sadly, except for my arch buddy Phyllis, none of my friends made it to the theatre. But because I'm so nice, here's a picture I took tonight to give you an idea on what you missed (for free!) But hey, you might have another opportunity come next summer of maybe winter break...or I'll take anyone that wants to go (hint hint).
This is the theatre auditorium from the top of the second floor balcony:
This is the lobby from the balcony lounge, the snack counter I worked at is on the left
...and this is the auditorium from the stage!
....I'll miss workin in such a cool old place. But anyways....here's to the last week of summer!
Tuesday, August 12, 2003
A good mini-vacation to San Francisco over the past two days. Visited familiar and new places with both friends and family on two beautiful (fogless!) summer days in the city. And what a city it is. At times, it feels worlds away from the rest of the Bay Area.
There's just so much to do and see there...and a lot of it is free. First stop was Mission Dolores/San Francisco. Right there in the appropriately named Mission District. I've been to many missions with my family, San Juan Buatista, San Diego, Santa Barbara, San Juan Capistrano, San Luis Obispo, San Carlos/Carmel, Santa Clara, San Jose, San Miguel....and so on....but we have never gone to Mission Dolores. It's really neat, apparently the oldest intact mission c. 1791, (the older one's have been rebuilt) with a beautiful old cemetery next door.
After the mission we decided to drive through the Haight-Ashbury, which was bustling with neo-yuppie-hippies and tourists. Cooler than I thought it would be. Then we headed to Golden Gate Park, and wandered into a 1:00 concert by the Golden Gate Park Band in the parks' big promenade. We just relaxed for about an hour in the sun, eating popcorn, and listening to some good live music. Then we strolled over to the Botanical Gardens, which were a pretty fantastic site to see. Hard to believe we were in the middle of the city.
Then I met up with my high school friends for lunch at the Rain Forest Cafe, and spent the early evening in Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, and Ghiradelli Square with them. Family met up with me right after, and before we went back to our hotel, we stopped at Crissy Field where I took some twilight shots of the Golden Gate. That night we played a mean game of Scrabble....I won. Ha.
After a good brunch at the hotel, I explored the Financial District by foot with my dad. Walked to the c. 1909 Palace Hotel and saw it's pretty amazing interior courtyard atrium. Then we headed down Market to the newly restored and reopened Ferry Building at the Bay. I gotta say, it's now one of my favorite buildings in the Bay Area. Before the Bay Bridge and Golden Gate, it was our Grand Central Station, and it looks like its well on its way to once again being a must-see for visitors and locals alike.
Before leaving the city, we took a drive up to Twin Peaks to take in the fog-free view of the entire city. We then headed down the Peninsula and spent the rest of the day at the San Mateo County Fair. A nice throwback after witnessing the Santa Clara County Fair earlier this month, which has been reduced to a shell of its former hokey-yet-loveable-in a homey & nostalgic way-self. Sheep, pigs, cows, petting zoos, (and the smell that goes along with all those things).....weird gizmos to buy, bad food that tastes great, crazy collections of locals, displays of local goods, ranging from pies, to photos, to bonsai plants, and a performance by a hypnotist and an actress/singer from the Disney Channel.
Lot's of stuff for such a little trip huh? Felt like a week instead of two days. That's what summer's about.
Sunday, August 10, 2003
Okay, so make it 10 days spent with my high school friends this summer. I would not allow myself to be stuck at home on one of my few friday nights off from the theatre. So I called Martin and ended up going to his house to see his new 2-month old puppie from the pound. Super cute lil dog she is. And Martin invited some of our other friends over. We were there till 12:30, just chillin, listening to music, watching TV, talking about stuff, and playing with the puppy.
So, my wish from last night's blog entry was filled! At least for tonight. I want to squeeze as much quality hang-out- time as I can out of what's left of the summer. Tomorrow I'll have another chance; I'll be in SF with my fam for the day, and hopefully with my friends at night. So, this weekend is shaping up to be pretty good.
So, my wish from last night's blog entry was filled! At least for tonight. I want to squeeze as much quality hang-out- time as I can out of what's left of the summer. Tomorrow I'll have another chance; I'll be in SF with my fam for the day, and hopefully with my friends at night. So, this weekend is shaping up to be pretty good.
Saturday, August 09, 2003
Hi there. How are you? I'm okay. Doodeedoo. No I'm not drunk. I don't do that....not yet at least. I'm just in a funny post-work-wind-down mood.
So I had plans made with a friend and then canceled tonight. That's okay though, it was for a good reason. And...I think I'm getting used to it. I've had plans with friends canceled this summer as much the number of times I've hung out with friends. Well maybe not...but close, since I've only spent time with my high school friends 9 days out of the whole summer.
Why? Mostly my job I think. I work during prime hang-out-time. But also because my high school friends seem to be not doing much, and if they are doing something, they're too tired to still hang out by the time I get off work. Once upon a time, we'd hang out into the early hours of the morning...1am...2am...even 3am. I thought I'd be doing more of that as I entered my college years, not less. I guess I should just get used to it and stop complaining. But it's hard to give up on something that I miss so much.
But anyways, my co-workers invited me to dinner after work, which was cool. It felt good to be just hangin and talkin with people late on a warm summer night in a busy Downtown Palo Alto in a restaurant filled with lots of other people my age doing the same. Only wish I had more time to do that with my friends.
So I had plans made with a friend and then canceled tonight. That's okay though, it was for a good reason. And...I think I'm getting used to it. I've had plans with friends canceled this summer as much the number of times I've hung out with friends. Well maybe not...but close, since I've only spent time with my high school friends 9 days out of the whole summer.
Why? Mostly my job I think. I work during prime hang-out-time. But also because my high school friends seem to be not doing much, and if they are doing something, they're too tired to still hang out by the time I get off work. Once upon a time, we'd hang out into the early hours of the morning...1am...2am...even 3am. I thought I'd be doing more of that as I entered my college years, not less. I guess I should just get used to it and stop complaining. But it's hard to give up on something that I miss so much.
But anyways, my co-workers invited me to dinner after work, which was cool. It felt good to be just hangin and talkin with people late on a warm summer night in a busy Downtown Palo Alto in a restaurant filled with lots of other people my age doing the same. Only wish I had more time to do that with my friends.
Monday, July 28, 2003
Well, it was the chloramine that killed the fish. Chlorine evaporates by letting the water sit. Chloramine does not. How much smarter do you feel now? Quite the learning expirience.
Three new fish are now swimming in the tank. They seem happy now, and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they survive the "cycling" of the tank over the next month.
Anyways...I've ticked off three of the five things I wrote I wanted to do this year in the East Bay. I briefly visited 4th Street in Berkeley. Cool downtownish district you would never know was there. Hopefully I'll get a chance to explore it later this year. I saw a Seabiscuit at the Grand Lake Theatre in Oakland with my parents. Good movie, and a really cool theatre with an ornate main auditorium. Much bigger than the Stanford, but it's a first-run movie house, so it isn't the museum-like time warp that the Stanford is....but almost. I'll be going back. After that we drove by Fenton's Creamery in Oakland, but have yet to try it. Looks like a fun place. Any place that's been open since 1894 is a must do on my book!
So the list still stands, even though I've done three things (including the slide at Cordonices). Once was not enough.
Three new fish are now swimming in the tank. They seem happy now, and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they survive the "cycling" of the tank over the next month.
Anyways...I've ticked off three of the five things I wrote I wanted to do this year in the East Bay. I briefly visited 4th Street in Berkeley. Cool downtownish district you would never know was there. Hopefully I'll get a chance to explore it later this year. I saw a Seabiscuit at the Grand Lake Theatre in Oakland with my parents. Good movie, and a really cool theatre with an ornate main auditorium. Much bigger than the Stanford, but it's a first-run movie house, so it isn't the museum-like time warp that the Stanford is....but almost. I'll be going back. After that we drove by Fenton's Creamery in Oakland, but have yet to try it. Looks like a fun place. Any place that's been open since 1894 is a must do on my book!
So the list still stands, even though I've done three things (including the slide at Cordonices). Once was not enough.
Sunday, July 27, 2003
Reject #1, Reject #2, and Reject #3 have died.
A week of research has proved unsuccessfull. Those three Zebra fish died so quick, I never had time to name them properly.
I don't know what happened. I'm hoping the culprit was something simple, like cholorine in the water. I didn't treat the water, I read somewhere that letting it sit for 24 hours would do the trick. Guess not. It also could have been that the temperature was set way too high when I brought the fish home, so they had to wait longer then they should have in their bag for it to cool. Other culprits, like Ph, Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate, etc....were all fine....I think.
But whatever it was, the depressing evidence of my failure is there, floating belly up in my new aquarium as I write this. I was going to stay overnight at the house for the first time, to moniter the fishs' health, but since all three have gone to fishy heaven, there was no need to stay. Besides, I didn't want to wake up in the middle of the night to find ghost fish nipping at my feet. Not only have I killed three fish, their ghosts might haunt my house. Ugh.
Six dollars down the toilet.
By tomorrow that will be a literal statement.
Regardless, a fun night in Berkeley with Leo and Lauren. A great pizza from Zachary's enjoyed in the living room before it became a fish morgue. Then, while waiting for the temperature of the aquarium to go down, we walked around the corner and explored Cordonices Park at twilight. The slide there built into the hill is awesome. We all went down it twice. The swings and teeter-totter are also fun. They seriously should build playgrounds for college students. You don't need to be under 13 to enjoy sliding down a hill on a piece of cardboard. The poor-man's rolllercoaster!
Other highlights? Seeing a doe and a fawn in the house's backyard. A quick visit from Jen to see my house. Seeing the fog roll in from the bay and into the hills. Cookies for dessert. My first Evans Hall rant of the year (to Ryan's subleaser Madri...it was a good one). And a midnight trip to Wurster to see the courtyard construction site. (To the dismay of the concrete-loving-Wurster-Worshipers, Leo and Lauren, the courtyard will have bricks, lawn, and oak trees. Ha! )
As for the fish....back to Berkeley tomorrow to have the water tested and flush the Rejects, may the rest in peace.
A week of research has proved unsuccessfull. Those three Zebra fish died so quick, I never had time to name them properly.
I don't know what happened. I'm hoping the culprit was something simple, like cholorine in the water. I didn't treat the water, I read somewhere that letting it sit for 24 hours would do the trick. Guess not. It also could have been that the temperature was set way too high when I brought the fish home, so they had to wait longer then they should have in their bag for it to cool. Other culprits, like Ph, Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate, etc....were all fine....I think.
But whatever it was, the depressing evidence of my failure is there, floating belly up in my new aquarium as I write this. I was going to stay overnight at the house for the first time, to moniter the fishs' health, but since all three have gone to fishy heaven, there was no need to stay. Besides, I didn't want to wake up in the middle of the night to find ghost fish nipping at my feet. Not only have I killed three fish, their ghosts might haunt my house. Ugh.
Six dollars down the toilet.
By tomorrow that will be a literal statement.
Regardless, a fun night in Berkeley with Leo and Lauren. A great pizza from Zachary's enjoyed in the living room before it became a fish morgue. Then, while waiting for the temperature of the aquarium to go down, we walked around the corner and explored Cordonices Park at twilight. The slide there built into the hill is awesome. We all went down it twice. The swings and teeter-totter are also fun. They seriously should build playgrounds for college students. You don't need to be under 13 to enjoy sliding down a hill on a piece of cardboard. The poor-man's rolllercoaster!
Other highlights? Seeing a doe and a fawn in the house's backyard. A quick visit from Jen to see my house. Seeing the fog roll in from the bay and into the hills. Cookies for dessert. My first Evans Hall rant of the year (to Ryan's subleaser Madri...it was a good one). And a midnight trip to Wurster to see the courtyard construction site. (To the dismay of the concrete-loving-Wurster-Worshipers, Leo and Lauren, the courtyard will have bricks, lawn, and oak trees. Ha! )
As for the fish....back to Berkeley tomorrow to have the water tested and flush the Rejects, may the rest in peace.
Saturday, July 26, 2003
Before I forget, these are some things I want to do this year in the East Bay:
-See a movie at the Grand Lake Theatre in Oakland
-Explore Berkeley's 4th Street District
-Go down the slide at Cordonices Park
-Take a tour of the Paramount Theatre in Oakland
-Get Ice Cream at the famous Fenton's Creamery in Oakland
http://www.fentonscreamery.com/
-See a movie at the Grand Lake Theatre in Oakland
-Explore Berkeley's 4th Street District
-Go down the slide at Cordonices Park
-Take a tour of the Paramount Theatre in Oakland
-Get Ice Cream at the famous Fenton's Creamery in Oakland
http://www.fentonscreamery.com/
Thursday, July 24, 2003
Stupid Goldfish.
I have a goldfish problem. My aunt made me play a game at the Obon festival where you win a goldfish as a prize. She said we were going to give it to her grandkids, but then decided to let me keep it.
And that's how I got Obon, the goldfish.
I thought..all right, no problem. I'll just put him in Senor Cadburry el Pescado de Alviso's (may he rest in peace) bowl instead of getting another fighting fish.
So I plopped Obon in there, only to immediately find him/her gasping at the water surface.
Why was Obon doing this? Goldfish go in bowls right? Right?!
Apparently not. When all else fails turn to Google for answers. I've been browsing dozens of goldfish keeping pages. Apparently these seemingly easy to care for pets are quite a handful. First thing I learned, Goldfish will not survive in Goldfish bowls, not enough surface area to get the right amount of Oxygen...hence gasping Obon (and the untimely passing of Lauren's fish...Norbert).
So, I decided...I'll get a tank! A 10 gallon tank like we had when I was a kid! It will be so cool, I'll put it up at the Berkeley house, plop Obon in there, and get some cool tropical fish too!
Wrong again. After buying the tank I learn that, it's a big NO-NO to put Goldfish in a Tropical Fish aquarium. Goldfish are coldwater fish and can pretty much only live with goldfish. They eat different food, need different water temperatures, and produce a slimy coating which can damage the tropical fish.
So...maybe I'll just get goldfish I think. Four or five different looking goldfish would still be...kinda...cool.
Wrong again. You see....goldfish get big. An adult "common" goldfish (which is the breed I discovered Obon is) usually grow to about 10 inches. And the general rule is 1 inch of fish to 1 gallon of water. Plus, goldfish were bred to have no stomachs. Food goes in and out....making them one of the dirtiest types of fish to keep. One fish alone will take all the resources of a normal filtration system (another reason the bowl is a no-no)
Which means.....if I keep this damn fish, it'll be the only fish. One stinkin' goldfish in a 10 gallon tank....instead of, say, an angel fish, a catfish, and a three or four neon tetras.
Now if I was a less sensitive person, I could just let this goldfish languish in the bowl until it dies or flush it. But I can't.
Anyone want a goldfish? They're easy to care for pets....
I have a goldfish problem. My aunt made me play a game at the Obon festival where you win a goldfish as a prize. She said we were going to give it to her grandkids, but then decided to let me keep it.
And that's how I got Obon, the goldfish.
I thought..all right, no problem. I'll just put him in Senor Cadburry el Pescado de Alviso's (may he rest in peace) bowl instead of getting another fighting fish.
So I plopped Obon in there, only to immediately find him/her gasping at the water surface.
Why was Obon doing this? Goldfish go in bowls right? Right?!
Apparently not. When all else fails turn to Google for answers. I've been browsing dozens of goldfish keeping pages. Apparently these seemingly easy to care for pets are quite a handful. First thing I learned, Goldfish will not survive in Goldfish bowls, not enough surface area to get the right amount of Oxygen...hence gasping Obon (and the untimely passing of Lauren's fish...Norbert).
So, I decided...I'll get a tank! A 10 gallon tank like we had when I was a kid! It will be so cool, I'll put it up at the Berkeley house, plop Obon in there, and get some cool tropical fish too!
Wrong again. After buying the tank I learn that, it's a big NO-NO to put Goldfish in a Tropical Fish aquarium. Goldfish are coldwater fish and can pretty much only live with goldfish. They eat different food, need different water temperatures, and produce a slimy coating which can damage the tropical fish.
So...maybe I'll just get goldfish I think. Four or five different looking goldfish would still be...kinda...cool.
Wrong again. You see....goldfish get big. An adult "common" goldfish (which is the breed I discovered Obon is) usually grow to about 10 inches. And the general rule is 1 inch of fish to 1 gallon of water. Plus, goldfish were bred to have no stomachs. Food goes in and out....making them one of the dirtiest types of fish to keep. One fish alone will take all the resources of a normal filtration system (another reason the bowl is a no-no)
Which means.....if I keep this damn fish, it'll be the only fish. One stinkin' goldfish in a 10 gallon tank....instead of, say, an angel fish, a catfish, and a three or four neon tetras.
Now if I was a less sensitive person, I could just let this goldfish languish in the bowl until it dies or flush it. But I can't.
Anyone want a goldfish? They're easy to care for pets....
Friday, July 18, 2003
Sunday, July 13, 2003
Thursday, July 10, 2003
So..back to Jamie's Mountain of Suckiness. Have you noticed that popular music is starting to reflect the current going ons in the world? I like it, cause it makes me feel like I'm not alone with the feelings I have about current events. Plus, I like music that is unique to an era, that represents the times we are living in. So, I humbly submit to you a portion of the lyrics from the Black Eyed Peas' (and...ahh..Justin Timberlake's..shhhh) current hit, "Where is the Love."
I feel the weight of the world on my shoulder
As I’m gettin’ older, y’all, people gets colder
Most of us only care about money makin’
Selfishness got us followin’ our own direction
Wrong information always shown by the media
Negative images is the main criteria
Infecting the young minds faster than bacteria
Kids act like what they see in the cinema
Yo’, whatever happened to the values of humanity?
Whatever happened to the fairness in equality?
Instead in spreading love we spreading animosity
Lack of understanding, leading lives away from unity
That’s the reason why sometimes I’m feelin’ under
That’s the reason why sometimes I’m feelin’ down
There’s no wonder why sometimes I’m feelin’ under
Gotta keep my faith alive til love is found
People killin’, people dyin’
Children hurt and you hear them cryin’
Can you practice what you preach
And would you turn the other cheek
Father, Father, Father help us
Send us some guidance from above
‘Cause people got me, got me questionin’
Where is the love
I feel the weight of the world on my shoulder
As I’m gettin’ older, y’all, people gets colder
Most of us only care about money makin’
Selfishness got us followin’ our own direction
Wrong information always shown by the media
Negative images is the main criteria
Infecting the young minds faster than bacteria
Kids act like what they see in the cinema
Yo’, whatever happened to the values of humanity?
Whatever happened to the fairness in equality?
Instead in spreading love we spreading animosity
Lack of understanding, leading lives away from unity
That’s the reason why sometimes I’m feelin’ under
That’s the reason why sometimes I’m feelin’ down
There’s no wonder why sometimes I’m feelin’ under
Gotta keep my faith alive til love is found
People killin’, people dyin’
Children hurt and you hear them cryin’
Can you practice what you preach
And would you turn the other cheek
Father, Father, Father help us
Send us some guidance from above
‘Cause people got me, got me questionin’
Where is the love
Wednesday, July 09, 2003
Monday, July 07, 2003
TheKatsMeoW137: I wish I had a car over the summer, I would've just driven down by now,
TheKatsMeoW137: even if you weren't free, I'd just frolic in the lovely land that is MV by myself.
Nap98: who wouldn't?
Nap98: no one can resist when MV beckons
TheKatsMeoW137: I know! I'm sure that the only thing keeping the entire earth's population from doing that right now is the immense feeling that true perfection may just be too much for them.
Nap98: yes...yes. that must be it.
TheKatsMeoW137: I'm glad we've figured this out, Nick. hehe
Nap98: it's always perplexed me
TheKatsMeoW137: even if you weren't free, I'd just frolic in the lovely land that is MV by myself.
Nap98: who wouldn't?
Nap98: no one can resist when MV beckons
TheKatsMeoW137: I know! I'm sure that the only thing keeping the entire earth's population from doing that right now is the immense feeling that true perfection may just be too much for them.
Nap98: yes...yes. that must be it.
TheKatsMeoW137: I'm glad we've figured this out, Nick. hehe
Nap98: it's always perplexed me
Friday, July 04, 2003
At my uncle's wedding the photographer had my grandparents, and all my aunts, uncles, and cousins on my mom's side come together for our first ever family portrait. In that picture, there are:
14 Mexican-Americans
1 Filipino/Chinese-American
1 Filipino-American
1 Japanese-American
1 Portuguese-American
1 Anglo-American
2 Filipino/Mexican-Americans
2 Portuguese/Mexican-Americans
and 4 Filipino/Chinese/Mexican-Americans
Lots of hyphens and slashes huh? But when you put us all together, in one big family photo, it’s clear that we are all Americans. We are a mix of cultures and backgrounds that you would be hard pressed to find any where else in this world.
There’s lots of turmoil in this country and in the world right now. Divisions seem to have deepened over race, culture, religion, and class. And over the past few years it has become increasingly clear that this country is far from perfect. When someone says, "This is the greatest country in the World!," I can't help but think of the others that have been stepped on to get to that position. I will not allow myself to be ignorant and filled with blind patriotism.
But when I look at that family photo, I can’t help but be hopeful and proud to call this place my home. We are a testament to the ability of people to put aside their differences and come together.
And that's what I’d like to think being an ‘American’ is all about.
Happy Fourth of July.
14 Mexican-Americans
1 Filipino/Chinese-American
1 Filipino-American
1 Japanese-American
1 Portuguese-American
1 Anglo-American
2 Filipino/Mexican-Americans
2 Portuguese/Mexican-Americans
and 4 Filipino/Chinese/Mexican-Americans
Lots of hyphens and slashes huh? But when you put us all together, in one big family photo, it’s clear that we are all Americans. We are a mix of cultures and backgrounds that you would be hard pressed to find any where else in this world.
There’s lots of turmoil in this country and in the world right now. Divisions seem to have deepened over race, culture, religion, and class. And over the past few years it has become increasingly clear that this country is far from perfect. When someone says, "This is the greatest country in the World!," I can't help but think of the others that have been stepped on to get to that position. I will not allow myself to be ignorant and filled with blind patriotism.
But when I look at that family photo, I can’t help but be hopeful and proud to call this place my home. We are a testament to the ability of people to put aside their differences and come together.
And that's what I’d like to think being an ‘American’ is all about.
Happy Fourth of July.
Wednesday, July 02, 2003
After two years of going to Berkeley, today was the first day I drove there. Woohoo! Go me.
Took my cousin Tiffany up there to show her around the new house and neighborhood. Really nice weather today. We explored the park around the corner and discovered this awesome slide built into the hill slope that is pretty big. Can't wait to try it out one day. Also....we found a tunnel that goes under Euclid Avenue connecting the Rose Garden/Tennis Courts to the Park. Pretty sweet. My neighborhood up there is pretty darn cool. (Let's see if I'll still think that after walking to and from campus come the end of August)
Work was kinda hectic tonight, but cool. My co-workers make it fun. Work again tomorrow night, but hopefully I can fit in some quality time with my Tio and Tia who are visiting from New Mexico. It's always great when they are here.
So yeah....this blog entry isn't very witty, deep, funny or a good story....just some thoughts I want to remember. So that's all. Move along.
Took my cousin Tiffany up there to show her around the new house and neighborhood. Really nice weather today. We explored the park around the corner and discovered this awesome slide built into the hill slope that is pretty big. Can't wait to try it out one day. Also....we found a tunnel that goes under Euclid Avenue connecting the Rose Garden/Tennis Courts to the Park. Pretty sweet. My neighborhood up there is pretty darn cool. (Let's see if I'll still think that after walking to and from campus come the end of August)
Work was kinda hectic tonight, but cool. My co-workers make it fun. Work again tomorrow night, but hopefully I can fit in some quality time with my Tio and Tia who are visiting from New Mexico. It's always great when they are here.
So yeah....this blog entry isn't very witty, deep, funny or a good story....just some thoughts I want to remember. So that's all. Move along.
Monday, June 30, 2003
Thursday, June 19, 2003
So a nice day off today. Lunch with Jen at San Jose city hall, lunch meeting with some MVPA people at the county building next door, dinner with Martin and Matt and a quick trip to Downtown Palo Alto after (I can't stay away from that place).
On the way to University Avenue from the parking garage, we encountered a homeless lady pushing a shopping cart, as she walked by us she looked at Matt and suddenly yelled "Fat Chance!!" as we passed her.
It took a while to figure out why she yelled that, but then we looked at Matt's shirt and it said "ROLE MODEL" across the chest.
Ah, crazy homeless people yelling things at you, it was almost like being in Berkeley.
On the way to University Avenue from the parking garage, we encountered a homeless lady pushing a shopping cart, as she walked by us she looked at Matt and suddenly yelled "Fat Chance!!" as we passed her.
It took a while to figure out why she yelled that, but then we looked at Matt's shirt and it said "ROLE MODEL" across the chest.
Ah, crazy homeless people yelling things at you, it was almost like being in Berkeley.
Saturday, June 14, 2003
Summer does not officially begin until I spend an evening with my friends hangin at Martin's house. Tonight summer began.
And for another night at work, I was paid $9.50 to watch a movie....I mean..."monitor the theater." Ahhh, the perks of working at a movie theater!
Driving through Downtown Palo Alto after work, and then Downtown Mountain View on the way home from Martin's, you could tell it was summer. Lots of people out late, enjoying the not-so-warm night air, walking around, talking, having fun. The moon was so full and bright tonight, you could see the Santa Cruz Mountains at midnight. Kinda cool for Friday the 13th. I feel like I should be tromping around some supposedly haunted house or the former graveyard behind City Hall with Matt and Martin asking ghosts if they feel like chatting. I need a few more ghost stories to tell the folks up at Berkeley in case of another blackout.
Oh well, maybe some other night, summer has only just started.
And for another night at work, I was paid $9.50 to watch a movie....I mean..."monitor the theater." Ahhh, the perks of working at a movie theater!
Driving through Downtown Palo Alto after work, and then Downtown Mountain View on the way home from Martin's, you could tell it was summer. Lots of people out late, enjoying the not-so-warm night air, walking around, talking, having fun. The moon was so full and bright tonight, you could see the Santa Cruz Mountains at midnight. Kinda cool for Friday the 13th. I feel like I should be tromping around some supposedly haunted house or the former graveyard behind City Hall with Matt and Martin asking ghosts if they feel like chatting. I need a few more ghost stories to tell the folks up at Berkeley in case of another blackout.
Oh well, maybe some other night, summer has only just started.
Sunday, June 08, 2003
To those in the know:
Tonight on my way home from work I was surfing the radio waves and came across a surprise on the Bay Area's alternative rock station, 105.3.
It's a catchy little Danish pop song that goes something like this:
"Everybody, move your feet and get united....woah, wah, ohhh"
And we never thought it'd be on American radio. Maybe my cuz Mikey made a special request.
"Can't stop...can't stop the beat....won't stop...won't stop my feet"
Oh boy.
Tonight on my way home from work I was surfing the radio waves and came across a surprise on the Bay Area's alternative rock station, 105.3.
It's a catchy little Danish pop song that goes something like this:
"Everybody, move your feet and get united....woah, wah, ohhh"
And we never thought it'd be on American radio. Maybe my cuz Mikey made a special request.
"Can't stop...can't stop the beat....won't stop...won't stop my feet"
Oh boy.
Thursday, June 05, 2003
All right, so summer! Woohoo! I've done a lot of fun stuff already with my family and with the friends that are here. Explored my Portuguese heritage with Chris on Sunday...we went to the Portuguese Holy Ghost Parade in Downtown MV, to the Portuguese mass (which was really nice), and even tried to fit in at the Portuguese festa. A whole different world that my dad's side was REALLY involved in until my grandpa passed away, and that Chris and I know hardly anything about. Hope to get a little more in touch with that this summer.
Other stuff...celebrated Matt's 20th birthday....saw Finding Nemo with Matt, Kim, and Ili (GREAT movie!)....got the keys and moved some stuff into our new house in Berkeley. Went to Half Moon Bay with my dad and Chris for clam chowder. Had a nice lunch with my grandparents yesterday. And on Memorial Day had a fun impromptu extended family barbecue. But I guess the most important thing (at least according to my mom...who's been hounding me on this topic all year...) I got a summer job!
Today was my first day working at the Stanford Theatre. I know...I know....STANFURD theater...boo hiss etc. But hey...it's a cool place. If you've never heard me talk about it...the Stanford Theatre is a completely restored movie 'palace' from the 1920s in Downtown Palo Alto. It's owned by multimillionaire David Packard (son of the P in HP). They only show classic movies from before the 1960s. The place is like a time-warp, and a lot of people go there for a fun, classy, (and relatively inexpensive) night out.
My coworkers are really friendly and fun to work with. This in a way, is my first REAL job...or at least my first real job in the service-sector. My internship with the city was a very cushy job, mostly research and learning about the field of city planning. Stuff I am comfortable doing.
I was kinda nervous starting today, I had NO idea how well I would do doing things like cashiering, and working in costumer service. Research on a historic building? No problem. Updating a city's zoning map? I can do it. Meeting with city council members? Sure thing. Adding the cost of a box of Milkduds, a large Popcorn, and a medium and small Cherry Coke in my head while getting the order at the same time? Yikes.
But everyone told me..."don't worry about it!"..."cash registers are easy to use." But get this....NO cash register....NO calculator....just me, behind the counter in the lobby, counting in my head, pouring drinks, getting popcorn...by myself for the first 10 minutes are so right at opening. My worst nightmare! Hehe, not really...it was scary and tough, but I got through it. The people are really friendly and patient...which is one reason I thought it would be good to work there. My manager and then the other worker came to my rescue later on, and things ran smoothly after that.
They told me I'd get used to adding up the prices in a few weeks. But come this Friday...I'm brining my own calculator. :-)
Other stuff...celebrated Matt's 20th birthday....saw Finding Nemo with Matt, Kim, and Ili (GREAT movie!)....got the keys and moved some stuff into our new house in Berkeley. Went to Half Moon Bay with my dad and Chris for clam chowder. Had a nice lunch with my grandparents yesterday. And on Memorial Day had a fun impromptu extended family barbecue. But I guess the most important thing (at least according to my mom...who's been hounding me on this topic all year...) I got a summer job!
Today was my first day working at the Stanford Theatre. I know...I know....STANFURD theater...boo hiss etc. But hey...it's a cool place. If you've never heard me talk about it...the Stanford Theatre is a completely restored movie 'palace' from the 1920s in Downtown Palo Alto. It's owned by multimillionaire David Packard (son of the P in HP). They only show classic movies from before the 1960s. The place is like a time-warp, and a lot of people go there for a fun, classy, (and relatively inexpensive) night out.
My coworkers are really friendly and fun to work with. This in a way, is my first REAL job...or at least my first real job in the service-sector. My internship with the city was a very cushy job, mostly research and learning about the field of city planning. Stuff I am comfortable doing.
I was kinda nervous starting today, I had NO idea how well I would do doing things like cashiering, and working in costumer service. Research on a historic building? No problem. Updating a city's zoning map? I can do it. Meeting with city council members? Sure thing. Adding the cost of a box of Milkduds, a large Popcorn, and a medium and small Cherry Coke in my head while getting the order at the same time? Yikes.
But everyone told me..."don't worry about it!"..."cash registers are easy to use." But get this....NO cash register....NO calculator....just me, behind the counter in the lobby, counting in my head, pouring drinks, getting popcorn...by myself for the first 10 minutes are so right at opening. My worst nightmare! Hehe, not really...it was scary and tough, but I got through it. The people are really friendly and patient...which is one reason I thought it would be good to work there. My manager and then the other worker came to my rescue later on, and things ran smoothly after that.
They told me I'd get used to adding up the prices in a few weeks. But come this Friday...I'm brining my own calculator. :-)
Friday, May 23, 2003
Wait....
How'd that happen? ....I'm an upper classman now? Halfway through college. Halfway to some unknown post-Berkeley future. High school was two years ago already. Two years! Have I changed? Of course. How can't you?
Berkeley. Berkeley rocks. I love it here, and seeing people walking around in their caps and gowns sorta scares me, while it makes other people jealous. I hear a lot of unsatisfied grumbling, and some of "I can't WAIT to get out of here!" But that's not me. Maybe that'll change in two years. Maybe I'll get cynical and tired of being here, but I hope not.
I get attached to places...and to the moment I'm living in. I'm not one who always is looking for the next best thing, ready to jump into the future hoping it will be better there. I'm always a little reluctant to take the next step. Nostalgia is in my soul, and it always has been.
So packing up and leaving La Loma is kinda tough. I like my room. It's a nice, big room with a pleasant view. I know I'm going to miss being this close to campus next year. But I'm looking forward to moving into our house. It's exciting to start something new. I guess what's really tough is the thought that I can never come back to this time and place. When I walk out of that door tomorrow, a year will be officially over. I'll be walking into something new ....the last half of my undergrad life. I hope its as good as the first half...I hope its even better.
How'd that happen? ....I'm an upper classman now? Halfway through college. Halfway to some unknown post-Berkeley future. High school was two years ago already. Two years! Have I changed? Of course. How can't you?
Berkeley. Berkeley rocks. I love it here, and seeing people walking around in their caps and gowns sorta scares me, while it makes other people jealous. I hear a lot of unsatisfied grumbling, and some of "I can't WAIT to get out of here!" But that's not me. Maybe that'll change in two years. Maybe I'll get cynical and tired of being here, but I hope not.
I get attached to places...and to the moment I'm living in. I'm not one who always is looking for the next best thing, ready to jump into the future hoping it will be better there. I'm always a little reluctant to take the next step. Nostalgia is in my soul, and it always has been.
So packing up and leaving La Loma is kinda tough. I like my room. It's a nice, big room with a pleasant view. I know I'm going to miss being this close to campus next year. But I'm looking forward to moving into our house. It's exciting to start something new. I guess what's really tough is the thought that I can never come back to this time and place. When I walk out of that door tomorrow, a year will be officially over. I'll be walking into something new ....the last half of my undergrad life. I hope its as good as the first half...I hope its even better.
Thursday, May 15, 2003
ihanah: i heard a nasty rumor about you mr perry
ihanah: *gasp*
ihanah: you havent watched the matrix!!!!!!!??????????????????!!!!!!!
Nap98: nope. haven't seen it
ihanah: *smack*
Nap98: is it any good?
ihanah: thats it
ihanah: i disown you!
ihanah: ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh
ihanah: ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Nap98: val kilmer's in it right?
Nap98: or..was it vin diesel
ihanah: *cringe*
Nap98: i know its someone with a V
ihanah: youre kidding me right
ihanah: i can never ... look at you the same way...
Nap98: so...val kilmer right?
ihanah: *gasp*
ihanah: you havent watched the matrix!!!!!!!??????????????????!!!!!!!
Nap98: nope. haven't seen it
ihanah: *smack*
Nap98: is it any good?
ihanah: thats it
ihanah: i disown you!
ihanah: ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh
ihanah: ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Nap98: val kilmer's in it right?
Nap98: or..was it vin diesel
ihanah: *cringe*
Nap98: i know its someone with a V
ihanah: youre kidding me right
ihanah: i can never ... look at you the same way...
Nap98: so...val kilmer right?
Monday, May 12, 2003
Señor Cadbury El Pescado de Alviso has gone to the giant fish bowl in the sky.
Señor was a good fish, he was blue. Blue is a nice color. I hope that wherever he is...he's still blue...because I don't see how anyone would like him if he was some other color.
Time for a new fish!
I think I will name the new fish Señor Cadbury El Pescado de Alviso el Segundo. Or maybe Bob...Bob the fish. Or maybe Finny. The options are endless.
Señor was a good fish, he was blue. Blue is a nice color. I hope that wherever he is...he's still blue...because I don't see how anyone would like him if he was some other color.
Time for a new fish!
I think I will name the new fish Señor Cadbury El Pescado de Alviso el Segundo. Or maybe Bob...Bob the fish. Or maybe Finny. The options are endless.
Wednesday, April 16, 2003
Los Lobos rock....
Hearts of Stone
(David Hidalgo/Louie Pérez)
I travel down this lonely road
To see if I can pick me a rose
But all I find is a handful of thorns
In a place where blossoms should grow
Some hearts are made of stone
Some are cold, made of ice
Some beat all alone
Then there's those made of steel
Ones that don't even feel
Where are those hearts,
Those hearts made of gold?
I wandered down this lonely trail
Some twenty seven hours a day
But all I see are prints in the dirt
Where others tried to find their way
How far will I go,
To leave these fears behind?
Oh, let those tears go dry
Yeah, won't stop until I can find
Oh, that heart of gold
Hearts of Stone
(David Hidalgo/Louie Pérez)
I travel down this lonely road
To see if I can pick me a rose
But all I find is a handful of thorns
In a place where blossoms should grow
Some hearts are made of stone
Some are cold, made of ice
Some beat all alone
Then there's those made of steel
Ones that don't even feel
Where are those hearts,
Those hearts made of gold?
I wandered down this lonely trail
Some twenty seven hours a day
But all I see are prints in the dirt
Where others tried to find their way
How far will I go,
To leave these fears behind?
Oh, let those tears go dry
Yeah, won't stop until I can find
Oh, that heart of gold
Tuesday, April 15, 2003
Walking down Broadway in Uptown Oakland, past dozens of empty storefronts, shuttered department stores, and buildings that have certainty seen better days, I felt uneasy. Why? Because I don't like to stand out. I never do. And here I was, one of the only non-African American people in the neighborhood. To make matters more awkward I had to constantly snap pictures with my digital camera, which yells to people passing by..."look at me, I'm a tourist!" I don't like that. It took me years to get comfortable taking pictures in Mountain View.
So as I'm walking down Broadway... I see this older African-American woman in a wheelchair ahead of me. She didn't appear to be all there mentally...but I couldn't really tell. My urge was to walk right past her and continue on my way. But as I approached her she quietly said, "Excuse me Sir, Sir...can you help me?"
I responded..."What's That?"
And she said, "Can you help me Sir? I'm thirsty. Can you get me a Coke?"
"A Coke? Umm. Where from?"
"Over there down the street, the Chinese Restaurant. A Coke in a bottle, please."
And I thought about it, looked at the restaurant, and looked at her.
Maybe she was homeless. Maybe she wasn't. Maybe she had the money to get the Coke herself, and just thought she could take advantage of this obviously suburban outsider timidly walking in her neighborhood. Maybe she had no money, and just really wanted a Coke.
So....I said that ya, I would get her a Coke. I went to that Chinese Restaurant and bought one. I walked back to the lady in the wheelchair, and gave her the Coke. She said, "Thank you Sir, God Bless You Today."
And I continued on my way.
So as I'm walking down Broadway... I see this older African-American woman in a wheelchair ahead of me. She didn't appear to be all there mentally...but I couldn't really tell. My urge was to walk right past her and continue on my way. But as I approached her she quietly said, "Excuse me Sir, Sir...can you help me?"
I responded..."What's That?"
And she said, "Can you help me Sir? I'm thirsty. Can you get me a Coke?"
"A Coke? Umm. Where from?"
"Over there down the street, the Chinese Restaurant. A Coke in a bottle, please."
And I thought about it, looked at the restaurant, and looked at her.
Maybe she was homeless. Maybe she wasn't. Maybe she had the money to get the Coke herself, and just thought she could take advantage of this obviously suburban outsider timidly walking in her neighborhood. Maybe she had no money, and just really wanted a Coke.
So....I said that ya, I would get her a Coke. I went to that Chinese Restaurant and bought one. I walked back to the lady in the wheelchair, and gave her the Coke. She said, "Thank you Sir, God Bless You Today."
And I continued on my way.
Tuesday, April 08, 2003
Sunday, April 06, 2003
No longer homeless next year!
What a relief. We were choosen out of at least five other groups who wanted it just as bad as us. Saw the house, and got the house within the same day because the landlord liked our group and "wants us to rent there." Great job everyone at the interview, we all said the right things and gave the right impression. The house is almost ours now. I can't wait to make it our home...or second home (mtn view will always be home...hehe)
Negative stuff first: 15 minute walk from campus, we're up in the hills.
Good stuff: It's all downhilll to campus in the morning! Awesome views of the Bay, one room with a view of the Golden Gate and the city. A large back yard and a deck. Good sized rooms, Dining Room, Large Kitchen, 3 baths, possibly a Living Room depending on how many singles, a unique spiral staircase to a double on first floor, scenic quiet neighborhood with little old men that say "Good Evening" to you as you walk by, around the corner from the Rose Garden and a large park with playing fields, basketball court, tennis courts, and picnic areas.
Woohoo!
Some other notes about yesterday:
Alumni Leadership Scholarship Interiviews were fun. It's so cool to talk to potential freshman about going to Cal, and remember being in their position two years ago. Sign me up to be a tour guide! Hehe.
My preservation organization (Mtn. View Pres. Alliance) is on the road to become an official non-profit, which is really exciting. We now have a pr-bono lawyer from one of the biggest law firms in the South Bay. The entire steering committee met today in Downtown Mtn. View and the meeting went really well. Things are rolling.
Today was my Uncle Mike's birthday, what an amazing year for him.....it's so amazing and wonderful that he's here with us alive and well. How blessed we are. We brought my Grandma and him over for the entire day, took them to Berkeley, and threw a surprise party in MV at night. After calling them only this morning, almost all my mom's siblings and their families who live in Mountain View came over to celebrate my Uncle Mike, even though he's my dad's brother. A very touching evening that was enjoyed by all.
What an excellent day.
What a relief. We were choosen out of at least five other groups who wanted it just as bad as us. Saw the house, and got the house within the same day because the landlord liked our group and "wants us to rent there." Great job everyone at the interview, we all said the right things and gave the right impression. The house is almost ours now. I can't wait to make it our home...or second home (mtn view will always be home...hehe)
Negative stuff first: 15 minute walk from campus, we're up in the hills.
Good stuff: It's all downhilll to campus in the morning! Awesome views of the Bay, one room with a view of the Golden Gate and the city. A large back yard and a deck. Good sized rooms, Dining Room, Large Kitchen, 3 baths, possibly a Living Room depending on how many singles, a unique spiral staircase to a double on first floor, scenic quiet neighborhood with little old men that say "Good Evening" to you as you walk by, around the corner from the Rose Garden and a large park with playing fields, basketball court, tennis courts, and picnic areas.
Woohoo!
Some other notes about yesterday:
Alumni Leadership Scholarship Interiviews were fun. It's so cool to talk to potential freshman about going to Cal, and remember being in their position two years ago. Sign me up to be a tour guide! Hehe.
My preservation organization (Mtn. View Pres. Alliance) is on the road to become an official non-profit, which is really exciting. We now have a pr-bono lawyer from one of the biggest law firms in the South Bay. The entire steering committee met today in Downtown Mtn. View and the meeting went really well. Things are rolling.
Today was my Uncle Mike's birthday, what an amazing year for him.....it's so amazing and wonderful that he's here with us alive and well. How blessed we are. We brought my Grandma and him over for the entire day, took them to Berkeley, and threw a surprise party in MV at night. After calling them only this morning, almost all my mom's siblings and their families who live in Mountain View came over to celebrate my Uncle Mike, even though he's my dad's brother. A very touching evening that was enjoyed by all.
What an excellent day.
Monday, March 24, 2003
Addendum #2 to previous gripes:
Ok so today wasn't that bad. My teeth are clean now. My hair doesn't look bad once I comb it.
I went to a meeting of the Mtn. View Youth Advisory Group with my brother. I was one of the founding members of the group back in high school. So weird that the people who were freshman when I was involved are now Juniors! Things have changed a lot for MVYAG, and not for the good it seems. When I was involved we were working on bringing our own ideas to life. I got the local night club to have teen dance nights. Another member turned the city's break room into a teen study center. We all worked to hold the teens first youth festival, complete with a stage for local bands. We did a lot of stuff in two short years, and I had hoped the momentum would push the next set of YAGers forward.
But now it's turned into a group that mainly performs as a work horse for the city's Recreation department. None of the older members seem to happy about that. But it was great seeing some them again, and seeing Chris in action. He's motiviated to bring MVYAG back to its "glory days." Go Chris! We're gonna meet with some of the older members to talk about YAGs future over dinner sometime this week.
My friend Jamie called today, and let me know I'm not the only one bored at home this break. We decided to get together tonight at the Dana Street Roasting Company in Downtown Mountain View. They have Ghiradelli Hot Chocolate there! Yum. Jamie and I caught up with each other, talked about life and stuff. Good times. Good places.
So today ended up being pretty good. Break might end up being fun afterall.
Ok so today wasn't that bad. My teeth are clean now. My hair doesn't look bad once I comb it.
I went to a meeting of the Mtn. View Youth Advisory Group with my brother. I was one of the founding members of the group back in high school. So weird that the people who were freshman when I was involved are now Juniors! Things have changed a lot for MVYAG, and not for the good it seems. When I was involved we were working on bringing our own ideas to life. I got the local night club to have teen dance nights. Another member turned the city's break room into a teen study center. We all worked to hold the teens first youth festival, complete with a stage for local bands. We did a lot of stuff in two short years, and I had hoped the momentum would push the next set of YAGers forward.
But now it's turned into a group that mainly performs as a work horse for the city's Recreation department. None of the older members seem to happy about that. But it was great seeing some them again, and seeing Chris in action. He's motiviated to bring MVYAG back to its "glory days." Go Chris! We're gonna meet with some of the older members to talk about YAGs future over dinner sometime this week.
My friend Jamie called today, and let me know I'm not the only one bored at home this break. We decided to get together tonight at the Dana Street Roasting Company in Downtown Mountain View. They have Ghiradelli Hot Chocolate there! Yum. Jamie and I caught up with each other, talked about life and stuff. Good times. Good places.
So today ended up being pretty good. Break might end up being fun afterall.
addendum to the previous entry:
I needed a haircut, so I went to the barbershop today. Guess which barber I ended up with? Yes, my friends, revenge of the Vietnamese Barber. (see my blog entry from 9-20-02). And me, with my only hat, up in berkeley.
It's not that bad...really. Just somewhat uneven....but hey, hair grows back.
(Unevenly this time around.)
I needed a haircut, so I went to the barbershop today. Guess which barber I ended up with? Yes, my friends, revenge of the Vietnamese Barber. (see my blog entry from 9-20-02). And me, with my only hat, up in berkeley.
It's not that bad...really. Just somewhat uneven....but hey, hair grows back.
(Unevenly this time around.)
Oh spring break. How wonderful you are.
Not really. Gripe time.
My nose wont stop running. My dull headache wont go away. My dog wont stop howling outside at nothing. My mom called this morning, woke me from my sleep to tell me "surprise! I scheduled a dentist appointment for you today!" I'll spend my early afternoons driving my brother around since he continues to not have a license. Tomorrow I have to go to a city council meeting and speak, which is not a fun thing to do even for me. All my friends are somewhere else or still in school, so even if I had none of these other fun things to deal with....I would probably be sitting at home anyway.
Whoop-dee-do
Not really. Gripe time.
My nose wont stop running. My dull headache wont go away. My dog wont stop howling outside at nothing. My mom called this morning, woke me from my sleep to tell me "surprise! I scheduled a dentist appointment for you today!" I'll spend my early afternoons driving my brother around since he continues to not have a license. Tomorrow I have to go to a city council meeting and speak, which is not a fun thing to do even for me. All my friends are somewhere else or still in school, so even if I had none of these other fun things to deal with....I would probably be sitting at home anyway.
Whoop-dee-do
Wednesday, March 19, 2003
Right around 6:00 today it started raining.
Come on fate....are we living in a freakin movie? Our bombs start falling in Baghdad and the rain starts coming down in Berkeley.
Walking across the campus with the carillion bells of the Campanile ringing some solemn song and the rain falling on my umbrella...it was one of those times when the weather outside reflects how I feel inside.
Come on fate....are we living in a freakin movie? Our bombs start falling in Baghdad and the rain starts coming down in Berkeley.
Walking across the campus with the carillion bells of the Campanile ringing some solemn song and the rain falling on my umbrella...it was one of those times when the weather outside reflects how I feel inside.
Wednesday, March 12, 2003
Now...just imagine. Imagine a Berkeley campus without the truly ugliest building on campus. No. NOT Wurster.
Evans.
Yes. Evans. The giant pale green monster, the portal to hell, with moaning ventilation chasms of doom, golfland fountains and courtyards. The campus' suicide machine. Window-less lecture halls. Ugly. Ugly. Ugly.
Evans, the building that's stuck smack dab in the middle of the campus' Central Axis. What's the Central Axis you may ask? Well, take a look at a map of the campus, and notice the link between all the major public spaces in the historic core. Memorial Glade, the Mining Circle, the areas in front of VLSB. That's not a coincidence. Before Moffett Library and Evans, this was one continuus space, as planned by John Galen Howard in the early 1900s.
Evans screwed it up. In a major way. You used to have a beautiful, straight on view of the Golden Gate from the Mining Circle.
And now, I've seen..the future:
Yes. No Evans. Two smaller buildings linked underground, with a courtyard that reopens the view corrider to the Golden Gate. Beautiful. And this is only part of the plan. I'm giddy over this. Giddy! The campus DOES have a plan for the future, and it's everything I ever hoped for.
You see....I just don't walk to class. I walk to class constantly thinking about planning spaces, architecture, view corriders, paving materials, landscaping. It's built in me, I can't help it. And the Berkeley campus, for someone like me....is frustrating. It has great moments, like the view from Memorial Glade towards Doe and the Campanile. But they're isolated and constantly screwed up by ugly ass paving, ugly ass buildings, and half-assed landscaping.
It's great to know the campus has a plan, a vision...that things like the New Stanley Hall and Music Library are being built according to it. You can go see the web page yourself if you're interested....
New Century Plan
But to save you the trouble...here are some of the best drawings:
Look, this is the view looking east while walking across Strawberry Creek at Sather Gate! They're calling for the creation of a little pond and glade here, as well as some new paving material. Sweet.
Remember those dinky trailors where my studio was last spring? You know, those pieces of crap that are still standing there in what could be one of the nicest courtyards in campus...well they're gone! And a nice new building could complete the courtyard.
Well...that's all I'll show for now. Yes I know......So exciting!
No? Well...you suck.
Evans.
Yes. Evans. The giant pale green monster, the portal to hell, with moaning ventilation chasms of doom, golfland fountains and courtyards. The campus' suicide machine. Window-less lecture halls. Ugly. Ugly. Ugly.
Evans, the building that's stuck smack dab in the middle of the campus' Central Axis. What's the Central Axis you may ask? Well, take a look at a map of the campus, and notice the link between all the major public spaces in the historic core. Memorial Glade, the Mining Circle, the areas in front of VLSB. That's not a coincidence. Before Moffett Library and Evans, this was one continuus space, as planned by John Galen Howard in the early 1900s.
Evans screwed it up. In a major way. You used to have a beautiful, straight on view of the Golden Gate from the Mining Circle.
And now, I've seen..the future:
Yes. No Evans. Two smaller buildings linked underground, with a courtyard that reopens the view corrider to the Golden Gate. Beautiful. And this is only part of the plan. I'm giddy over this. Giddy! The campus DOES have a plan for the future, and it's everything I ever hoped for.
You see....I just don't walk to class. I walk to class constantly thinking about planning spaces, architecture, view corriders, paving materials, landscaping. It's built in me, I can't help it. And the Berkeley campus, for someone like me....is frustrating. It has great moments, like the view from Memorial Glade towards Doe and the Campanile. But they're isolated and constantly screwed up by ugly ass paving, ugly ass buildings, and half-assed landscaping.
It's great to know the campus has a plan, a vision...that things like the New Stanley Hall and Music Library are being built according to it. You can go see the web page yourself if you're interested....
New Century Plan
But to save you the trouble...here are some of the best drawings:
Look, this is the view looking east while walking across Strawberry Creek at Sather Gate! They're calling for the creation of a little pond and glade here, as well as some new paving material. Sweet.
Remember those dinky trailors where my studio was last spring? You know, those pieces of crap that are still standing there in what could be one of the nicest courtyards in campus...well they're gone! And a nice new building could complete the courtyard.
Well...that's all I'll show for now. Yes I know......So exciting!
No? Well...you suck.
Monday, March 10, 2003
Over 70,000 people live in Mountain View, but somehow, the place still feels like a small town. The way neighborhoods are built now, it's so easy to live in a world where you just don't know the people who live around you. For so many friends I've met and neighborhoods I've visited, there's no community, no sense of place.
"Who are you're neighbors?" I might ask, and a shrug and confused glance is what I get back. Nothing to ground you to where you live. Your neighborhood is just a place your house happens to be in. Your house is just an investment for 5 or so years, than its time to upgrade and move on. Nothing is constant, place only equals property value.
For me, this weekend was a perfect example of what I value in a community, how it can add an entire other element to life that a lot of American society seems to have lost since the 1950s.
This was my Saturday, this is why home, and my slice of Mountain View, is so great:
For lunch my brother Chris and I grabbed some burgers and took them to Shoreline Park to eat. Got a nice bench right next to the sailing lake looking towards the Santa Cruz Mountains. It was an awesome day weather-wise and it was nice to be outside.
When I got home a neighbor (who lives on the street behind our property) ran up to the car to grab his kid's tennis ball which had rolled our way. Even though we've only met once or twice at my family's Halloween haunted house, he immediately waved and cheerfully said 'hello and how ya doin.' I returned the greeting.
As I got out of the car our next-door neighbor to the north, Tom, walks over. Tom is in the National Guard Air Rescue Squad and was in Turkey from October till January. I say "hey Tom!" Tom says hi to me and "trigger" or some other funny name he calls my brother. (Maybe he's just making up for my dad calling him "Pat" for so long. Pat....Tom...who knows. My dad's has called me "Chris" and "Snickers" in the same breath.) We talk for a little while outside the yard, he asks how school is going, tells me to thank my Mom for taking care of his plants while he was gone. My mom had a big phobia about killing them, and is thrilled they're back at his house.
After that I decided to walk Downtown, take some pictures and do some research in the library. As I walk out the door my life-long "across the street neighbors", the Garcias shout from across the street their normal "howdy neighbor!" and ask how things are goin. The Garcias have always been close to my family. They come to almost every party we have at our place or at my grandparents. Joella Garcia and her sister Jamie and I grew up together, and spent a lot of our summer days as kids hanging out. We stayed friends through high school, and at least once every summer a quick hello turns into a conversation that goes past midnight in my grandparent's backyard. So anyways, I say hello to them and start my walk.
One block down the street another neighbor who just purchased a home in north Mountain View drives by and waves. Her son is my brother's best friend since they were little kids. Get this, we're all Portuguese-Mexican mixes, so for the longest time we could jokingly call our street stub the Porto-Mex ghetto of MV. The house they rented is empty now, but we're happy they were able to afford a home in Mountain View. Another branch of their family is building a new home one house down from my grandparents, so we'll still be seeing a lot of them.
A few steps after that I come across my neighbor Mark with his kid, who was sitting on the lawn of my other neighbors, Peter and Nancy, talking to Peter. All three of them are part of the historic preservation group I co-founded. I stop and talk for a while, ask Peter how things are goin, he recently had heart surgery, and I bug Mark about not typing up our meeting minutes yet, joking that's the reason I came home. They tell me to make sure I don't stay in the library too long...especially on a day like this. I totally agree with them, say "see ya later" and head on my way.
I pass my great-grandma's old house where my second cousin and his family live, but didn't see em' outside so I didn't stop by. A couple blocks later I'm in the middle of Downtown, which is bustling with the lunchtime crowd. It's always cool to see the place so alive, considering that when I was a kid the place was almost a ghost town. One of the best things about living in my neighborhood, the old part of MV, is being able to quickly walk down to the main street. I live five short blocks from one of the best Mexican restaurants in town.
I get to the buildings I wanted to take a pic of, and bring out my big ol' digital camera. Some people driving by in a new convertible see me taking the picture and yell "hey! how many mega pics is that?!....thinking its a NEW digital VIDEO camera. I am reminded that yes, this is still the Silicon Valley. I yell back, it's an old digital camera, and that's why its so big. They say "oh! all right! thanks!" and continue driving down the street.
But anyway, the picture ended up cool. I did a then and now pic of an old photo my great grandma took in the early 1950s. Cool to see how things have changed, and not changed. For those curious, here ya go:
1950
2003
The c. 1920s building with the ugly tinted glass facade is going to be restored to something that looks more like the 50s pic.
After walking home, I got Chris to go on a "half an hour" drive to take a few pics at the city's last orchard. On the way home, Chris got disoriented and asked if we were in Mountain View when we were in the freakin' middle of the city. (THIS is why he still has not passed his driving test, he has no sense of direction. hehe) I pull off on a side road to show him exactly where we are, and we end up going towards the neighborhood a branch of my extended family lives in. On one street alone, I have two sets of aunts & uncles, two cousins, one cousin by marriage, two second cousins, and their extended family to whom I'm not related by blood. Chris decides we should go visit some of them. As we turn on to their street, we see my grandparents turning out of it after visiting them.
My aunt was so happy to see us, she was jumping around the room. My aunt, uncle, Chris and I ended up talking for hours about family history, Mexican-American racial issues, Bush's war, school, Chris' college plans, and then eating dinner from the previously mentioned Mexican restaurant. My uncle even baked cookies. We didn't end up leaving until after midnight. Hehe...so much for "half an hour." It was great though.
Sunday was similar. I got KFC with Chris and my cousin Marisa, and took it to eat at Shoreline. I visited my aunt again to get some advice on a topic for polysci term paper. After that my parents got home from their anniversary trip in Monterey, and we went out for dinner, which was really nice. When I got home I spent a few hours next door with my grandparents showing them the wonders of the internet, looking up whatever they wanted and showing how their club web page used a picture of them in the title graphic. Every time I show them the internet they're amazed. I also showed them a web page I'm trying to get together for our family about our history, they really enjoyed that, making jokes and telling stories about our history. After that I came back to Berkeley.
So that's my neighborhood. That's what I go home to. My small town in the giant faceless suburban blob that much of the Bay Area has turned in to. That's why I'm so passionate about Mountain View. That's what I want to fight to save and work to recreate through an education in Urban Studies. The physical things, the parks, the buildings, the landmarks, are just icing on the cake...they're the symbols that represent what truly matters....the people, the diversity, the community, the history, and my own family.
"Who are you're neighbors?" I might ask, and a shrug and confused glance is what I get back. Nothing to ground you to where you live. Your neighborhood is just a place your house happens to be in. Your house is just an investment for 5 or so years, than its time to upgrade and move on. Nothing is constant, place only equals property value.
For me, this weekend was a perfect example of what I value in a community, how it can add an entire other element to life that a lot of American society seems to have lost since the 1950s.
This was my Saturday, this is why home, and my slice of Mountain View, is so great:
For lunch my brother Chris and I grabbed some burgers and took them to Shoreline Park to eat. Got a nice bench right next to the sailing lake looking towards the Santa Cruz Mountains. It was an awesome day weather-wise and it was nice to be outside.
When I got home a neighbor (who lives on the street behind our property) ran up to the car to grab his kid's tennis ball which had rolled our way. Even though we've only met once or twice at my family's Halloween haunted house, he immediately waved and cheerfully said 'hello and how ya doin.' I returned the greeting.
As I got out of the car our next-door neighbor to the north, Tom, walks over. Tom is in the National Guard Air Rescue Squad and was in Turkey from October till January. I say "hey Tom!" Tom says hi to me and "trigger" or some other funny name he calls my brother. (Maybe he's just making up for my dad calling him "Pat" for so long. Pat....Tom...who knows. My dad's has called me "Chris" and "Snickers" in the same breath.) We talk for a little while outside the yard, he asks how school is going, tells me to thank my Mom for taking care of his plants while he was gone. My mom had a big phobia about killing them, and is thrilled they're back at his house.
After that I decided to walk Downtown, take some pictures and do some research in the library. As I walk out the door my life-long "across the street neighbors", the Garcias shout from across the street their normal "howdy neighbor!" and ask how things are goin. The Garcias have always been close to my family. They come to almost every party we have at our place or at my grandparents. Joella Garcia and her sister Jamie and I grew up together, and spent a lot of our summer days as kids hanging out. We stayed friends through high school, and at least once every summer a quick hello turns into a conversation that goes past midnight in my grandparent's backyard. So anyways, I say hello to them and start my walk.
One block down the street another neighbor who just purchased a home in north Mountain View drives by and waves. Her son is my brother's best friend since they were little kids. Get this, we're all Portuguese-Mexican mixes, so for the longest time we could jokingly call our street stub the Porto-Mex ghetto of MV. The house they rented is empty now, but we're happy they were able to afford a home in Mountain View. Another branch of their family is building a new home one house down from my grandparents, so we'll still be seeing a lot of them.
A few steps after that I come across my neighbor Mark with his kid, who was sitting on the lawn of my other neighbors, Peter and Nancy, talking to Peter. All three of them are part of the historic preservation group I co-founded. I stop and talk for a while, ask Peter how things are goin, he recently had heart surgery, and I bug Mark about not typing up our meeting minutes yet, joking that's the reason I came home. They tell me to make sure I don't stay in the library too long...especially on a day like this. I totally agree with them, say "see ya later" and head on my way.
I pass my great-grandma's old house where my second cousin and his family live, but didn't see em' outside so I didn't stop by. A couple blocks later I'm in the middle of Downtown, which is bustling with the lunchtime crowd. It's always cool to see the place so alive, considering that when I was a kid the place was almost a ghost town. One of the best things about living in my neighborhood, the old part of MV, is being able to quickly walk down to the main street. I live five short blocks from one of the best Mexican restaurants in town.
I get to the buildings I wanted to take a pic of, and bring out my big ol' digital camera. Some people driving by in a new convertible see me taking the picture and yell "hey! how many mega pics is that?!....thinking its a NEW digital VIDEO camera. I am reminded that yes, this is still the Silicon Valley. I yell back, it's an old digital camera, and that's why its so big. They say "oh! all right! thanks!" and continue driving down the street.
But anyway, the picture ended up cool. I did a then and now pic of an old photo my great grandma took in the early 1950s. Cool to see how things have changed, and not changed. For those curious, here ya go:
1950
2003
The c. 1920s building with the ugly tinted glass facade is going to be restored to something that looks more like the 50s pic.
After walking home, I got Chris to go on a "half an hour" drive to take a few pics at the city's last orchard. On the way home, Chris got disoriented and asked if we were in Mountain View when we were in the freakin' middle of the city. (THIS is why he still has not passed his driving test, he has no sense of direction. hehe) I pull off on a side road to show him exactly where we are, and we end up going towards the neighborhood a branch of my extended family lives in. On one street alone, I have two sets of aunts & uncles, two cousins, one cousin by marriage, two second cousins, and their extended family to whom I'm not related by blood. Chris decides we should go visit some of them. As we turn on to their street, we see my grandparents turning out of it after visiting them.
My aunt was so happy to see us, she was jumping around the room. My aunt, uncle, Chris and I ended up talking for hours about family history, Mexican-American racial issues, Bush's war, school, Chris' college plans, and then eating dinner from the previously mentioned Mexican restaurant. My uncle even baked cookies. We didn't end up leaving until after midnight. Hehe...so much for "half an hour." It was great though.
Sunday was similar. I got KFC with Chris and my cousin Marisa, and took it to eat at Shoreline. I visited my aunt again to get some advice on a topic for polysci term paper. After that my parents got home from their anniversary trip in Monterey, and we went out for dinner, which was really nice. When I got home I spent a few hours next door with my grandparents showing them the wonders of the internet, looking up whatever they wanted and showing how their club web page used a picture of them in the title graphic. Every time I show them the internet they're amazed. I also showed them a web page I'm trying to get together for our family about our history, they really enjoyed that, making jokes and telling stories about our history. After that I came back to Berkeley.
So that's my neighborhood. That's what I go home to. My small town in the giant faceless suburban blob that much of the Bay Area has turned in to. That's why I'm so passionate about Mountain View. That's what I want to fight to save and work to recreate through an education in Urban Studies. The physical things, the parks, the buildings, the landmarks, are just icing on the cake...they're the symbols that represent what truly matters....the people, the diversity, the community, the history, and my own family.
Friday, March 07, 2003
Today was a day of Chicano poetry, Ryan chucking up blood, Dan passing Kidney Stones, an enlightening political discussion with Erik, and a very....crazy convo with Lesley.
I think I need some sleep.
Nap98: yo estoy el pollo loco.
lbthekiller: youre a crazy chicken?
Nap98: no. you are
lbthekiller: no
lbthekiller: you said it
Nap98: don't call me that!
Nap98: you're so mean to me.
lbthekiller: SAID IT!!!!
Nap98: i know you did
Nap98: lbthekiller: youre a crazy chicken?
Nap98: see?
lbthekiller: no,
Nap98: yes.
lbthekiller: you are a crazy chicken
Nap98: cheeseburger
I think I need some sleep.
Nap98: yo estoy el pollo loco.
lbthekiller: youre a crazy chicken?
Nap98: no. you are
lbthekiller: no
lbthekiller: you said it
Nap98: don't call me that!
Nap98: you're so mean to me.
lbthekiller: SAID IT!!!!
Nap98: i know you did
Nap98: lbthekiller: youre a crazy chicken?
Nap98: see?
lbthekiller: no,
Nap98: yes.
lbthekiller: you are a crazy chicken
Nap98: cheeseburger
Friday, February 28, 2003
Important information from Steph Peters:
AUhntress: Nick- would you like to hear some random trivia?
Nap98: sure.....
Nap98: lol
AUhntress: okay- how much do you know about kangaroos?
Nap98: not...much
AUhntress: okay- well it turns out the females have 2 vaginas and are perpetually pregnant
AUhntress: a joey is born and then they mate and a fertilized egg kind of just hangs out
Nap98: wow...thanks steph.
AUhntress: wait- it's not over yet
Nap98: that's. great.
Nap98: oh boy
AUhntress: lol
Nap98: lol
AUhntress: so, after the baby joey grows up a little bit
AUhntress: and stops nursing for a certain amount of hours
AUhntress: the other egg starts to mature
AUhntress: and then she has that joey
AUhntress: BUT
AUhntress: she has two breasts in her pouch
Nap98: wow. kangaroos are so much more amazing than i ever knew.
AUhntress: and they each make a different kind of milk
Nap98: different flavors?
Nap98: is one set chocoale?
AUhntress: Nick- would you like to hear some random trivia?
Nap98: sure.....
Nap98: lol
AUhntress: okay- how much do you know about kangaroos?
Nap98: not...much
AUhntress: okay- well it turns out the females have 2 vaginas and are perpetually pregnant
AUhntress: a joey is born and then they mate and a fertilized egg kind of just hangs out
Nap98: wow...thanks steph.
AUhntress: wait- it's not over yet
Nap98: that's. great.
Nap98: oh boy
AUhntress: lol
Nap98: lol
AUhntress: so, after the baby joey grows up a little bit
AUhntress: and stops nursing for a certain amount of hours
AUhntress: the other egg starts to mature
AUhntress: and then she has that joey
AUhntress: BUT
AUhntress: she has two breasts in her pouch
Nap98: wow. kangaroos are so much more amazing than i ever knew.
AUhntress: and they each make a different kind of milk
Nap98: different flavors?
Nap98: is one set chocoale?
Thursday, February 20, 2003
I don’t look Mexican and hardley anyone knows what a Portuguese person looks like. I think when people meet me, most are forced to mentally place me in the category of “other” when it comes to race or ethnicity. So it’s not rare for me to hear things that offend me simply because people do not realize who they are talking to.
In fact recently, there's a person that I worked with on a Mountain View related issue that did just that. The first time we met, we talked a lot about the neighborhood we both lived in. We started talking about some of the problems in the neighborhood, blight, crime, destruction of historic properties, redevelopment issues...etc.
But during the discussion....my neighbor started making comments that made me cringe. This neighbor started going on about "the Mexicans" and linking them with neighborhood problems and safety issues. I let them go on for a while, and then politely let this person know I was half Mexican. My neighbor blinked, and apologized immediately.
My neighbor's racist comments were based mainly in ignorance and crass generalizations, not hate. And while their comments offended me, I accepted their apology. Even though I had just met this person, I tried to give them the benefit of a doubt and not judge their character on some off key comments.
We then had a pretty good discussion about the Mexican-American side of my family, and our history in Mountain View. My neighbor asked questions, I answered. In the process I think I broke, or at the very least challenged, some of the stereotypes and misconceptions of Mexican-Americans this person may have had. My neighbor opened up to me and let me know that they didn’t know very many Mexican-American people, and that they had a lot to learn.
`````````````
So…. Two of my friends are going through something similar to what I went through with my neighbor. They don’t know each other very well. Someone said something that was offensive to another based on race.
I’ll be frank. It was disrespectful and it bothered me. When I heard it I bit my lip and turned to look at the other person in the car who would be most offended. I didn’t say anything at the time but maybe I should have. I was surprised to hear what I heard, and thought that perhaps the person would realize that what they said was offensive and would apologize on their own. I decided to not mention it…until I realized tonight that the issue was being discussed and was causing some hard feelings.
I do not think anything less of the person that said this thing, because I know what their true character is and I know that they are a great person full of compassion and kindness. I would never label this person as racist, but I would say that their comment was racist. No one is perfect, and I think we have all said some callous and racist things we have come to regret.
I also completely understand why the offended party feels the way they do, having experienced similar situations. I think people often underestimate how hurtful certain careless comments can be. Because when someone says one thing that is racist, it’s not just the one thing that's said, hearing something like that makes you remember all the racist things you’ve heard, and makes you for a moment, feel like crap. These things should not be taken lightly.
If a personal and direct apology has not been made yet, it should be. And even though you might not know each other well, I’d like to think I do. I can safely say that both of you are excellent people. This isn’t something that can be healed by typing your personal emotions in your respective blogs. Yes, it’s slightly contradictory that I chose to address you both in my own blog, but at least this way everyone who’s involved knows where I stand.
Talk to each other directly and not through others. I think that’s all you need to do to work this out. And I do think you should work it out.
In fact recently, there's a person that I worked with on a Mountain View related issue that did just that. The first time we met, we talked a lot about the neighborhood we both lived in. We started talking about some of the problems in the neighborhood, blight, crime, destruction of historic properties, redevelopment issues...etc.
But during the discussion....my neighbor started making comments that made me cringe. This neighbor started going on about "the Mexicans" and linking them with neighborhood problems and safety issues. I let them go on for a while, and then politely let this person know I was half Mexican. My neighbor blinked, and apologized immediately.
My neighbor's racist comments were based mainly in ignorance and crass generalizations, not hate. And while their comments offended me, I accepted their apology. Even though I had just met this person, I tried to give them the benefit of a doubt and not judge their character on some off key comments.
We then had a pretty good discussion about the Mexican-American side of my family, and our history in Mountain View. My neighbor asked questions, I answered. In the process I think I broke, or at the very least challenged, some of the stereotypes and misconceptions of Mexican-Americans this person may have had. My neighbor opened up to me and let me know that they didn’t know very many Mexican-American people, and that they had a lot to learn.
`````````````
So…. Two of my friends are going through something similar to what I went through with my neighbor. They don’t know each other very well. Someone said something that was offensive to another based on race.
I’ll be frank. It was disrespectful and it bothered me. When I heard it I bit my lip and turned to look at the other person in the car who would be most offended. I didn’t say anything at the time but maybe I should have. I was surprised to hear what I heard, and thought that perhaps the person would realize that what they said was offensive and would apologize on their own. I decided to not mention it…until I realized tonight that the issue was being discussed and was causing some hard feelings.
I do not think anything less of the person that said this thing, because I know what their true character is and I know that they are a great person full of compassion and kindness. I would never label this person as racist, but I would say that their comment was racist. No one is perfect, and I think we have all said some callous and racist things we have come to regret.
I also completely understand why the offended party feels the way they do, having experienced similar situations. I think people often underestimate how hurtful certain careless comments can be. Because when someone says one thing that is racist, it’s not just the one thing that's said, hearing something like that makes you remember all the racist things you’ve heard, and makes you for a moment, feel like crap. These things should not be taken lightly.
If a personal and direct apology has not been made yet, it should be. And even though you might not know each other well, I’d like to think I do. I can safely say that both of you are excellent people. This isn’t something that can be healed by typing your personal emotions in your respective blogs. Yes, it’s slightly contradictory that I chose to address you both in my own blog, but at least this way everyone who’s involved knows where I stand.
Talk to each other directly and not through others. I think that’s all you need to do to work this out. And I do think you should work it out.
Thursday, February 13, 2003
“From the towns of the nation, we’d like to do a song for you about the larger picture. There’s only one season lately. There used to be an agreement between the seasons that they would all come and stay for three months, and then go the way the seasons go when they’re not where we are.
Lately there has been no spring, no summer, and no fall.
Politically, and philosophically, and psychologically there has only been the season of ice.
It a season of frozen dreams and frozen nightmares,
A scene of frozen progress, and frozen ideas,
frozen aspirations and inspirations.
They call the season winter; we call the song Winter in America.”
From the Indians
Who welcomed the Pilgrims
And to the buffalos
Who once ruled the plain
Like the vultures
Circling beneath the Dark Clouds
Looking for the Rain
Looking for the Rain
Just like the cities that
Stagger on the coastline
In a nation
That just can’t stand much more
Like the forests
Buried beneath the highway
Never had a chance to grow
Never had a chance to grow
And now it’s Winter
Winter in America
Yes, and all of the healers
Have been killed
Or sent away
But the people know
The people know
It’s winter
Winter in America
And aint nobody fighting cause
Nobody knows what to save
Save your soul
Lord knows, from Winter in America
The Constitution
A nobel piece of a paper
With free society
They struggled but they died in vain
And now democracy
Is rag time on the corner
Hoping for some rain
It looks like its hoping for some rain
And I see the robins
Perched on distant tree tops
They’re watching last-ditch races
March across the floor
But just like the peace sign
That vanished in our dreams
Never had a chance to grow
Never had a chance to grow.
And now its winter
Winter in America
And all of the healers
Have been killed
Our betrayed
But the people know
The people know
It’s winter
Lord knows, its Winter in America
And aint’ nobody fighting, cause,
Nobody knows what to save
Save your soul,
From winter in America.
-Gil Scott Heron
A song written in 1974 seems just as relevant today as it must have back then. Couldn't have said that two years ago. Catching a glimpse of the evening news assualted me with threats of a missle strike on the Bay Area from Korea, terrorist attacks from Osama Bin Laden, a growing hatred of the US government amongst our allies, and the deployment of hundreds of troops to fight a war in Iraq. All in two or three minutes.
Sorta strange now to look back at New Years Eve 1999. On that night, it seemed the entire world was celebrating and hoping for peace. Images of celebrations around the globe, of doves being released in Jerusalem are still clear in my mind. The economy was booming. The problems and conflicts of the world seemed distant and irrelevant to our lives as upper middle class high schoolers in America.
Then we left for college...and that September our rosy view of the world came tumbling down with those two towers. Whether you call it innocence or ignorance, it was taken away from our generation and we entered a new era. The coming years may prove to be defining for our nation in this century. The world has changed and we are becoming adults as it changes further. I wonder how such a shift will utimately affect us and define us. How will our generation handle the mess that we are destined to inherit. Can we begin to turn a new leaf, or will we travel down the same path that got us to where we are today?
Lately there has been no spring, no summer, and no fall.
Politically, and philosophically, and psychologically there has only been the season of ice.
It a season of frozen dreams and frozen nightmares,
A scene of frozen progress, and frozen ideas,
frozen aspirations and inspirations.
They call the season winter; we call the song Winter in America.”
From the Indians
Who welcomed the Pilgrims
And to the buffalos
Who once ruled the plain
Like the vultures
Circling beneath the Dark Clouds
Looking for the Rain
Looking for the Rain
Just like the cities that
Stagger on the coastline
In a nation
That just can’t stand much more
Like the forests
Buried beneath the highway
Never had a chance to grow
Never had a chance to grow
And now it’s Winter
Winter in America
Yes, and all of the healers
Have been killed
Or sent away
But the people know
The people know
It’s winter
Winter in America
And aint nobody fighting cause
Nobody knows what to save
Save your soul
Lord knows, from Winter in America
The Constitution
A nobel piece of a paper
With free society
They struggled but they died in vain
And now democracy
Is rag time on the corner
Hoping for some rain
It looks like its hoping for some rain
And I see the robins
Perched on distant tree tops
They’re watching last-ditch races
March across the floor
But just like the peace sign
That vanished in our dreams
Never had a chance to grow
Never had a chance to grow.
And now its winter
Winter in America
And all of the healers
Have been killed
Our betrayed
But the people know
The people know
It’s winter
Lord knows, its Winter in America
And aint’ nobody fighting, cause,
Nobody knows what to save
Save your soul,
From winter in America.
-Gil Scott Heron
A song written in 1974 seems just as relevant today as it must have back then. Couldn't have said that two years ago. Catching a glimpse of the evening news assualted me with threats of a missle strike on the Bay Area from Korea, terrorist attacks from Osama Bin Laden, a growing hatred of the US government amongst our allies, and the deployment of hundreds of troops to fight a war in Iraq. All in two or three minutes.
Sorta strange now to look back at New Years Eve 1999. On that night, it seemed the entire world was celebrating and hoping for peace. Images of celebrations around the globe, of doves being released in Jerusalem are still clear in my mind. The economy was booming. The problems and conflicts of the world seemed distant and irrelevant to our lives as upper middle class high schoolers in America.
Then we left for college...and that September our rosy view of the world came tumbling down with those two towers. Whether you call it innocence or ignorance, it was taken away from our generation and we entered a new era. The coming years may prove to be defining for our nation in this century. The world has changed and we are becoming adults as it changes further. I wonder how such a shift will utimately affect us and define us. How will our generation handle the mess that we are destined to inherit. Can we begin to turn a new leaf, or will we travel down the same path that got us to where we are today?
Thursday, February 06, 2003
Monday, February 03, 2003
The weekend was saved.
My parents, wonderful people that they are, whisked me away from Berkeley..sorta almost kidnapped me. They said we'd just go to dinner, but after dinner we went home. Fine with me!
Home was good. Dad got popcorn from Century, and I sat down with my grandparents and parents to watch Salt of the Earth (the movie my great-grandma's are in.) My grandparent's constantly pointed out people they knew...
Grandma Emma: "oh I went to high school with him..."
Grandpa Simon: "hey hun...didn't you go to school with him?"
Emma: "what?"
Simon: "I said, didn't you go to high school with him?"
Emma: "who?"
Simon: "Aye, him!"
Emma: "Oh....yes, I went to high school with him."
Simon: "That's what I said."
Well, maybe not that funny...but that's the general idea. There was also an argument as to whose mother was in a close up. "That's my mother!"...."No, that's MY mother!".....My grandma won. The movie was good, the DVD extras were really cool too. Lot's of photos from that part of New Mexico. Some things in that area haven't changed at all. Some have change completely.
Sunday was nice. I decided to go to mass with my dad and grandma. Not something I normally do...but it was nice, I prayed for all the things that were worth praying for (a lot lately) and the homily was about the importance of grandparent's...go fig. It was nice, the church looks great...just got restored.
My dad made a chorizo and eggs breakfast, we got pan dulce from the California Street Market, or the Little Store around the corner as we like to call it. I decided to randomly put on a CD my grandma had on her dresser, Glenn Miller's Orchestra.....big band from the 40s while breakfast was being made. My grandparent's started dancing in the dining room. Good to see them smile and have fun.
My godparent's came over to visit. Good to see them. Got to see my neighbor and life-long friend Joella too. We went on a lil' scanvenger hunt around the hood looking for a car seat. Her friend had her babysitting, but didn't leave a car seat or a stroller. Good thing I've met so many neighbors through the Mountain View Preservation Alliance, got her a stroller after trying three houses. That was, totally random, but fun.
Grandpa decided to come take me back to Berkeley with my dad. Grandpa's always fun to take to SF, he worked there during the 50s-70s, he's like taking a talking trivia book with you. We made a stop at Ghiradelli Square in SF and had a nice relaxing dinner. Clam Chowder in a Bread Bowl, overlooking the Bay at sunset. The city looked really beautiful this evening.
And to top it all off, got some great news from Matt. No Cancer.
Relief.
My parents, wonderful people that they are, whisked me away from Berkeley..sorta almost kidnapped me. They said we'd just go to dinner, but after dinner we went home. Fine with me!
Home was good. Dad got popcorn from Century, and I sat down with my grandparents and parents to watch Salt of the Earth (the movie my great-grandma's are in.) My grandparent's constantly pointed out people they knew...
Grandma Emma: "oh I went to high school with him..."
Grandpa Simon: "hey hun...didn't you go to school with him?"
Emma: "what?"
Simon: "I said, didn't you go to high school with him?"
Emma: "who?"
Simon: "Aye, him!"
Emma: "Oh....yes, I went to high school with him."
Simon: "That's what I said."
Well, maybe not that funny...but that's the general idea. There was also an argument as to whose mother was in a close up. "That's my mother!"...."No, that's MY mother!".....My grandma won. The movie was good, the DVD extras were really cool too. Lot's of photos from that part of New Mexico. Some things in that area haven't changed at all. Some have change completely.
Sunday was nice. I decided to go to mass with my dad and grandma. Not something I normally do...but it was nice, I prayed for all the things that were worth praying for (a lot lately) and the homily was about the importance of grandparent's...go fig. It was nice, the church looks great...just got restored.
My dad made a chorizo and eggs breakfast, we got pan dulce from the California Street Market, or the Little Store around the corner as we like to call it. I decided to randomly put on a CD my grandma had on her dresser, Glenn Miller's Orchestra.....big band from the 40s while breakfast was being made. My grandparent's started dancing in the dining room. Good to see them smile and have fun.
My godparent's came over to visit. Good to see them. Got to see my neighbor and life-long friend Joella too. We went on a lil' scanvenger hunt around the hood looking for a car seat. Her friend had her babysitting, but didn't leave a car seat or a stroller. Good thing I've met so many neighbors through the Mountain View Preservation Alliance, got her a stroller after trying three houses. That was, totally random, but fun.
Grandpa decided to come take me back to Berkeley with my dad. Grandpa's always fun to take to SF, he worked there during the 50s-70s, he's like taking a talking trivia book with you. We made a stop at Ghiradelli Square in SF and had a nice relaxing dinner. Clam Chowder in a Bread Bowl, overlooking the Bay at sunset. The city looked really beautiful this evening.
And to top it all off, got some great news from Matt. No Cancer.
Relief.
Wednesday, January 29, 2003
A little bug came flying in through the window. It hoovered near my fan for a few seconds, then ZIP it get's sucked into the fan, shoots out of it and over my lap top, and lands on my desk with a tiny thud, dead.
At that same moment, my best friend told me he might have cancer.
So I could take the bug thing one way....as a timely metaphor of how fleeting life can be.
Or...I can just laugh, and be thankfull I'm not a dumb bug.
Or maybe both.
At that same moment, my best friend told me he might have cancer.
So I could take the bug thing one way....as a timely metaphor of how fleeting life can be.
Or...I can just laugh, and be thankfull I'm not a dumb bug.
Or maybe both.
Tuesday, January 28, 2003
After a thrilling discussion about soft-drink and levi's commercials, Ryan exclaims:
"I've never seen a cartoon person in a text book with pubic hair!"
Erik glances at me, runs over to the text book and says "That cartoon man has breasts."
And for the record:
Coke= Being Real
Sprite/7up= Being Alternative
Pepsi= Being Young and Cool
Dr Pepper = Being Independent
Orange Soda/Crush = Being Orange
and the girl in the Levi's commercial is crying profound tears of joy as the Buffalo almost trample her.
Just another evening in 1A33.
"I've never seen a cartoon person in a text book with pubic hair!"
Erik glances at me, runs over to the text book and says "That cartoon man has breasts."
And for the record:
Coke= Being Real
Sprite/7up= Being Alternative
Pepsi= Being Young and Cool
Dr Pepper = Being Independent
Orange Soda/Crush = Being Orange
and the girl in the Levi's commercial is crying profound tears of joy as the Buffalo almost trample her.
Just another evening in 1A33.
Monday, January 27, 2003
Nap98: writing an essay. writing an essay. is so much fun. is so much fun. staying up past midnight. staying up past midnight. un-till you're done. un-till you're done.
CriSPy251: lol
CriSPy251: thanks
Nap98: imagine conan o'brien singing that to you
CriSPy251: lol
Poor Chris. If the Raiders had won, his essay wouldn't be due tomorrow. He'll be up late tonight.
CriSPy251: lol
CriSPy251: thanks
Nap98: imagine conan o'brien singing that to you
CriSPy251: lol
Poor Chris. If the Raiders had won, his essay wouldn't be due tomorrow. He'll be up late tonight.
Saturday, January 25, 2003
I wish there was a way...to turn back the clock. To help her remember...or, to not forget. To give her back the friends she has lost, the people she could share her life with. To clear her eyes of the tears which fill them more and more often. All I can do is hug her, tell her I love her, that things will be ok. All I can do is live my life, and hope that what I do makes her proud.
Bittersweet, so much in life is bittersweet.
Bittersweet, so much in life is bittersweet.
Wednesday, January 22, 2003
When I got here it was raining. It hasn't stopped pouring on me since. Three people I knew have passed away between yesterday and Christmas.
The first was Carol Fischer, a librarian who was always there to help me research Mountain View history and encouraged me in whatever I was working on. She had two sons the age of my brother and I. We always talked about college and she always wanted to know how I was doing. She shared my passion for the city and its history. She always had a smile on her face, she was a kind heart. She passed away unexpectedly a few days after Christmas....from a seizure while at the movies with her family. In an instant...gone like that. It was a shock. I'll miss her a lot.
The next was my great aunt, my Tia Nene. She was a beautiful woman full of love and kindness. A great lady, the last of her generation in my family. She moved to Washington when I was a young teenager, but she always had a place in my heart. She was the type of relative that would pinch your cheeks with a great big smile. She made you feel loved. I wish I could have spent more time with her, but I'm glad I saw her as much as I did when I was younger.
And yesterday, my 7th & 8th grade teacher, Mrs. Judy Capaldo passed away after a battle with Leukemia. She was a great teacher, a very intelligent woman full of wit and humor. She always treated us with respect and kindness. I'll always remember her willingness to help me out, even after I graduated. I also remember her beautiful voice, and how she used to go up in front of the entire school and sing a rendition of the Hail Mary that I always enjoyed. It's hard to believe she's gone.
I wish I could have been there today at her funeral and rosary, to be there with my brother her other students. I wish I had a chance to see Mrs. Capaldo again and let her know how much I appreciated her, we didn't get her address in time to send her a card before she passed away. I wish I had a chance to see each of these people again and thank them. But all I can do is remember them, and remember to cherish and be thankfull for the people I have in my life while I still have them.
And if you were
With me tonight
I'd sing to you just
One more time
A song for a heart so big
God wouldn't let it live
May angels lead you in
Hear you me my friends
On sleepless roads
The sleepless go
May angels lead you in
The first was Carol Fischer, a librarian who was always there to help me research Mountain View history and encouraged me in whatever I was working on. She had two sons the age of my brother and I. We always talked about college and she always wanted to know how I was doing. She shared my passion for the city and its history. She always had a smile on her face, she was a kind heart. She passed away unexpectedly a few days after Christmas....from a seizure while at the movies with her family. In an instant...gone like that. It was a shock. I'll miss her a lot.
The next was my great aunt, my Tia Nene. She was a beautiful woman full of love and kindness. A great lady, the last of her generation in my family. She moved to Washington when I was a young teenager, but she always had a place in my heart. She was the type of relative that would pinch your cheeks with a great big smile. She made you feel loved. I wish I could have spent more time with her, but I'm glad I saw her as much as I did when I was younger.
And yesterday, my 7th & 8th grade teacher, Mrs. Judy Capaldo passed away after a battle with Leukemia. She was a great teacher, a very intelligent woman full of wit and humor. She always treated us with respect and kindness. I'll always remember her willingness to help me out, even after I graduated. I also remember her beautiful voice, and how she used to go up in front of the entire school and sing a rendition of the Hail Mary that I always enjoyed. It's hard to believe she's gone.
I wish I could have been there today at her funeral and rosary, to be there with my brother her other students. I wish I had a chance to see Mrs. Capaldo again and let her know how much I appreciated her, we didn't get her address in time to send her a card before she passed away. I wish I had a chance to see each of these people again and thank them. But all I can do is remember them, and remember to cherish and be thankfull for the people I have in my life while I still have them.
And if you were
With me tonight
I'd sing to you just
One more time
A song for a heart so big
God wouldn't let it live
May angels lead you in
Hear you me my friends
On sleepless roads
The sleepless go
May angels lead you in
Tuesday, January 21, 2003
I am back in Berkeley. As soon as I got here it started raining. I like the rain right?
No architecture studio this semester. No math. No architecture studio or math ever again actually. I look at my schedule and I see the most amazing thing....free time. What will I do with it? Must I get a job? A real job? Quite a predicament for me.....I've been spoiled by already having two dream jobs...an internship for the City of Mountain View planning department....and a freelance history writer for the Mountain View paper. But I need money.
So, I saw Chicago. Lot's of fun. Go see it. Hmmm....that's all for now. Here's to a good, productive semester!
No architecture studio this semester. No math. No architecture studio or math ever again actually. I look at my schedule and I see the most amazing thing....free time. What will I do with it? Must I get a job? A real job? Quite a predicament for me.....I've been spoiled by already having two dream jobs...an internship for the City of Mountain View planning department....and a freelance history writer for the Mountain View paper. But I need money.
So, I saw Chicago. Lot's of fun. Go see it. Hmmm....that's all for now. Here's to a good, productive semester!
Friday, January 10, 2003
Not only did our SoCal trip happen, it managed to go off without a hitch. We crammed a lot of stuff into those 5 days. Thanks to anyone who drove us, fed us, our housed us...especially the families of Kay, Kat, and Eric.
Remember when ABC was bought by Disney and they sent all their sitcoms to Disneyworld? Well...that was sorta of like this trip..but not as corny..I think. The formula pretty much works like this...same cast of characters + whole new locations = possibility for new adventures and wacky hygincs!
To put it as quickly as possible we went to (in order):
Friday - UCSD, Old Town San Diego, Mission Beach at Sunset, Kay's House.
Saturday - Hotel Del Coronado, Balboa Park, Downtown San Diego
Sunday - Erik's House, Downtown Burbank, Palmdale, Kat's House, BJ's House
Monday - Disneyland, California Adventure, Dan's House, Eric's House
Tuesday - The Getty Center.
Jeesh. Lot's of stuff. Lot's of fun. Maybe a little two much backtracking and buttsitting on the highways....but with good music and fun travel companions, hours can go by a lot quicker. It was interesting to jump from San Diego to LA to the Palmdale/Lancaster Area. I can't help but look at cities with a critical eye and compare the places I've been to find examples of what to do...and what not to do when it comes to City Planning. San Diego is..well, it has its act together and has the types of places that make me excited and hopeful about City Planning and Historic Preservation. LA is a big exciting mess of a city. Palmdale/Lancaster....LA part II minus the layer of pre 1950s development that makes parts of LA so memoreable.
Ever since I met Kat she has been the biggest civic booster of her wonderful locale, Palmdale...at the fringe of the Mojave. Now that I've finally been there, what can I say about her desert oasis? She showed us all the landmarks, including the hill where two girls got kidnapped, the mall, the bright lights of the maximum security prison, and BJ's amazing house. By coincidence...I stumbled upon the book "The Geography of Nowhere" in the library yesterday. It talks about the rise and fall of the American city at the hands of our ever growing dependence of the automobile. Flipping through it I came upon this quote regarding the future of cities when we run out of either oil or water ..."Things that were built in absurd locations, like the vast housing tracts outside Los Angeles on the fringe of the Mojave desert, may have to be abandoned."
Hmmm. But the Joshua Trees are cool! (even if Kat thinks they look like the product of earth's vomit). Which reminds me of Candice's description of Downtown LA from the Getty Center...."looks like a giant pimple on a huge face."
Remember when ABC was bought by Disney and they sent all their sitcoms to Disneyworld? Well...that was sorta of like this trip..but not as corny..I think. The formula pretty much works like this...same cast of characters + whole new locations = possibility for new adventures and wacky hygincs!
To put it as quickly as possible we went to (in order):
Friday - UCSD, Old Town San Diego, Mission Beach at Sunset, Kay's House.
Saturday - Hotel Del Coronado, Balboa Park, Downtown San Diego
Sunday - Erik's House, Downtown Burbank, Palmdale, Kat's House, BJ's House
Monday - Disneyland, California Adventure, Dan's House, Eric's House
Tuesday - The Getty Center.
Jeesh. Lot's of stuff. Lot's of fun. Maybe a little two much backtracking and buttsitting on the highways....but with good music and fun travel companions, hours can go by a lot quicker. It was interesting to jump from San Diego to LA to the Palmdale/Lancaster Area. I can't help but look at cities with a critical eye and compare the places I've been to find examples of what to do...and what not to do when it comes to City Planning. San Diego is..well, it has its act together and has the types of places that make me excited and hopeful about City Planning and Historic Preservation. LA is a big exciting mess of a city. Palmdale/Lancaster....LA part II minus the layer of pre 1950s development that makes parts of LA so memoreable.
Ever since I met Kat she has been the biggest civic booster of her wonderful locale, Palmdale...at the fringe of the Mojave. Now that I've finally been there, what can I say about her desert oasis? She showed us all the landmarks, including the hill where two girls got kidnapped, the mall, the bright lights of the maximum security prison, and BJ's amazing house. By coincidence...I stumbled upon the book "The Geography of Nowhere" in the library yesterday. It talks about the rise and fall of the American city at the hands of our ever growing dependence of the automobile. Flipping through it I came upon this quote regarding the future of cities when we run out of either oil or water ..."Things that were built in absurd locations, like the vast housing tracts outside Los Angeles on the fringe of the Mojave desert, may have to be abandoned."
Hmmm. But the Joshua Trees are cool! (even if Kat thinks they look like the product of earth's vomit). Which reminds me of Candice's description of Downtown LA from the Getty Center...."looks like a giant pimple on a huge face."
Thursday, December 26, 2002
Another Christmas, come and gone. My 21st Christmas. Jeesh. Does the 1st one really count? I was less than two months old. Guess so.
It was a nice Christmas. I got to spend some real quality time with my friends during the week before. Kim, Matt, Martin, Josh, lil bro Chris, and I had a fun dinner at Taxi's in Palo Alto on Saturday. Then we all packed into Matt's car to see Christmas lights in Monte Sereno (crazy house there) and Willow Glen. Then Jamie dropped by and we all had a nice get together at my house, played yet another version of Uno and then a great game of Cranium.
Sunday was a false tamale day. No one showed up so we moved it to Monday. Had a birthday dinner for my aunty Cheri. At night, my family and grandparents went to see Christmas lights in Monte Sereno (that crazy house again) and in Vasona Park. After complaining about a guy honking at us on the way there because we were all stuck in a traffic jam......dad goes ahead and accidently sets of the honking siren alarm of my grandpa's van secons after entering the park to see the light displays. That kept us laughing for a good five minutes.
Monday was tamale day. Made tamales. Monday night, Jen rounded me, Martin, and Jamie up....Chris tagged along again too. We had a fun time at Christmas in the Park in Downtown SJ. Then we met up with Josh at Jamie's house to decorate (and eat) Jamie's mom's great Gingerbread cookies. Jamie refused to allow Chris's "evil nick" gingerbread man to remain in her house.....i still don't think he's been eaten yet.
Christmas Eve was different this year because my cousin Jason and his wife Liz were in Oregon with their baby for the first year. We missed having them here. Another break from tradition was a visit my uncle's godparents house. They're really nice people with heavy Italian accents and great senses of humor. When my grandpa Perry was alive, they were best friends with my grandparents. Their house has been completely unchanged since the 1960s.....so cool.....especialy since everything looks new even though it has to be 40+ years old. It was seriously like stepping into a photo from the 60s and sitting down in it for half an hour.
Christmas Day....was something different. All the normal traditions, a tamale dinner, a few games of Santa bingo, a brutal (but fun) game of spoons and uno, pictures on the staircase, video games with my cousins and brother, presents. But thoughts of certain people that were not there put an unexpected damper on the early evening, and thoughts of people that might not be there in the coming years put what many felt was an inappropriate and untimely cloud over the end of what otherwise was a fun family celebration.
Ah well. Nothing is ever perfect, especially in a big family. At least for me, the good outweighed the bad. So much to be thankful for on this Christmas, for my family, my friends, and the great memories we can share from the past few days. (A lot of nice presents too.) Plus, I have more than a month of beautiful beautiful break ahead of me!
So...that's it. A Merry Christmas to All, and to all, a Good Night.
It was a nice Christmas. I got to spend some real quality time with my friends during the week before. Kim, Matt, Martin, Josh, lil bro Chris, and I had a fun dinner at Taxi's in Palo Alto on Saturday. Then we all packed into Matt's car to see Christmas lights in Monte Sereno (crazy house there) and Willow Glen. Then Jamie dropped by and we all had a nice get together at my house, played yet another version of Uno and then a great game of Cranium.
Sunday was a false tamale day. No one showed up so we moved it to Monday. Had a birthday dinner for my aunty Cheri. At night, my family and grandparents went to see Christmas lights in Monte Sereno (that crazy house again) and in Vasona Park. After complaining about a guy honking at us on the way there because we were all stuck in a traffic jam......dad goes ahead and accidently sets of the honking siren alarm of my grandpa's van secons after entering the park to see the light displays. That kept us laughing for a good five minutes.
Monday was tamale day. Made tamales. Monday night, Jen rounded me, Martin, and Jamie up....Chris tagged along again too. We had a fun time at Christmas in the Park in Downtown SJ. Then we met up with Josh at Jamie's house to decorate (and eat) Jamie's mom's great Gingerbread cookies. Jamie refused to allow Chris's "evil nick" gingerbread man to remain in her house.....i still don't think he's been eaten yet.
Christmas Eve was different this year because my cousin Jason and his wife Liz were in Oregon with their baby for the first year. We missed having them here. Another break from tradition was a visit my uncle's godparents house. They're really nice people with heavy Italian accents and great senses of humor. When my grandpa Perry was alive, they were best friends with my grandparents. Their house has been completely unchanged since the 1960s.....so cool.....especialy since everything looks new even though it has to be 40+ years old. It was seriously like stepping into a photo from the 60s and sitting down in it for half an hour.
Christmas Day....was something different. All the normal traditions, a tamale dinner, a few games of Santa bingo, a brutal (but fun) game of spoons and uno, pictures on the staircase, video games with my cousins and brother, presents. But thoughts of certain people that were not there put an unexpected damper on the early evening, and thoughts of people that might not be there in the coming years put what many felt was an inappropriate and untimely cloud over the end of what otherwise was a fun family celebration.
Ah well. Nothing is ever perfect, especially in a big family. At least for me, the good outweighed the bad. So much to be thankful for on this Christmas, for my family, my friends, and the great memories we can share from the past few days. (A lot of nice presents too.) Plus, I have more than a month of beautiful beautiful break ahead of me!
So...that's it. A Merry Christmas to All, and to all, a Good Night.
Wednesday, December 18, 2002
Back in Berkeley for one more day this semester. I don't feel like studying for my city planning final. But, I know if I don't I'm bound to get screwed over and loose my chance to truly dominate this class. Huh. So this will be a short entry.
Monday night went out with Matt, Kim, Martin, and Julia. Tried to go to San Jose's Cheesecake factory...too crowded....ended up at Chevy's (blah). Saw "Anaylze That" fun movie, more fun just to hang out with some of the group again. Looks like a repeat of summer though, Sarah's off to Colorado, Rachel is out in Auburn, Jen is going to be busy or in San Diego. Hopefully those of us that are still in the Valley of Heart's Delight will be able to have a lot of good times over the next month.
Tuesday....didn't do much, went to Shoreline with my grandpa, just walked around to enjoy the brief but beautiful gaps of sunlight between this on-going series of storms. Apparently there's snow on Mt. Hamilton today...and of course I'm in Berkeley. I hope it stays through tomorrow so I can see it....(and maybe try to go up to it).
Monday night went out with Matt, Kim, Martin, and Julia. Tried to go to San Jose's Cheesecake factory...too crowded....ended up at Chevy's (blah). Saw "Anaylze That" fun movie, more fun just to hang out with some of the group again. Looks like a repeat of summer though, Sarah's off to Colorado, Rachel is out in Auburn, Jen is going to be busy or in San Diego. Hopefully those of us that are still in the Valley of Heart's Delight will be able to have a lot of good times over the next month.
Tuesday....didn't do much, went to Shoreline with my grandpa, just walked around to enjoy the brief but beautiful gaps of sunlight between this on-going series of storms. Apparently there's snow on Mt. Hamilton today...and of course I'm in Berkeley. I hope it stays through tomorrow so I can see it....(and maybe try to go up to it).
Monday, December 16, 2002
Sleigh bells ring....are you listening? In the lane...snow is glistening.
Well....the sleigh bells are actually Snicker's new dog collar(it has chili peppers on it! ha!) and ID tag cling-clanging against each other....and the lane is indeed glistening....but from the sea of water that has fallen here since Friday. This storm has been crazy, 50-60mph winds, thunder, lightening, trees are falling everywhere, one of my grandpa's 30 year old rose bushes snapped over, and the power went out most of Saturday evening. But it came back on that night, thank you PG&E. Ah....but it is wonderful to be home.
All the things that I longed for a week ago in this blog have happened in the last two days. I'm typing this in the living room, surrounded by all the decorations and lights that make my house so special during this time of the year. My dad made hot chocolate for my family, we watched a Muppet Christmas Carol (we swear by this version of the classic)....we even braved the rain and went cruising for holiday lights as we waited for our Round Table Pizza to be done. Yum. That was all just yesterday.
Today we've all been working on putting up the Nacimiento next door at my grandparent's house, a family tradition for over 50 years. The Nacimiento is something that my parents, brother and I put up. My grandma used to put it up, but before that my great-grandma put it up. Basically, the nacimiento is a nativity scene. But it's the Mexican version of a nativity scene.....and we go all out. The thing is three tiers of heirloom figures. On the top tier are my great-grandma's manger figures and dozens of "sparkle town" houses she bought in the 1940s...and that we now find out are now valuable collectibles. Perhaps the most impressive feature is the cloth that drapes the entire scene, which we hang hundreds of glass ornaments from. Apparently my great-grandma started doing this, the ornaments represented stars. My dad pointed out today how cool it was that we were hanging up the exact same ornaments my great-grandma hung up so many years ago. It is very cool.
The nacimiento is a lot of work, especially for my mom, who does most of the work. The rest of us have tried to help out a lot more over the past few years so things are a little balanced now. We started it last night and have been working on it all day today....and it's only about half way done. Sometimes people don't realize how much work and time it takes. I remember a few years ago my parents actually considered not putting the Nacimiento up. Too much work, and it seemed like no one else in the family cared about it. But we decided that if anything, it was a really important tradition for us and my grandparents, even if the rest of the Sias bunch took it for granted. And sometimes it feels like they do, and that still dissapoints us.
Yesterday, one of my aunts made a slightly upsetting remark about why we even bother putting it up if its so much work. She probably wasn't entirely serious...but it's still bugs. The Nacimiento is about our culture, and putting it up is a way to honor our culture and our family's past. I'm sure if we didn't put it up, most everyone would miss it and complain that it wasn't there come Tamale Day...(if they even show up on Tamale day). If only they could be a little more appreciative and a little more helpful without us having to take it away. This really should be a thing that the whole family is a part of and trys to take some ownership of. So cousins, if you are reading this....the Nacimiento isn't just my family's tradition, its yours too.
Well....the sleigh bells are actually Snicker's new dog collar(it has chili peppers on it! ha!) and ID tag cling-clanging against each other....and the lane is indeed glistening....but from the sea of water that has fallen here since Friday. This storm has been crazy, 50-60mph winds, thunder, lightening, trees are falling everywhere, one of my grandpa's 30 year old rose bushes snapped over, and the power went out most of Saturday evening. But it came back on that night, thank you PG&E. Ah....but it is wonderful to be home.
All the things that I longed for a week ago in this blog have happened in the last two days. I'm typing this in the living room, surrounded by all the decorations and lights that make my house so special during this time of the year. My dad made hot chocolate for my family, we watched a Muppet Christmas Carol (we swear by this version of the classic)....we even braved the rain and went cruising for holiday lights as we waited for our Round Table Pizza to be done. Yum. That was all just yesterday.
Today we've all been working on putting up the Nacimiento next door at my grandparent's house, a family tradition for over 50 years. The Nacimiento is something that my parents, brother and I put up. My grandma used to put it up, but before that my great-grandma put it up. Basically, the nacimiento is a nativity scene. But it's the Mexican version of a nativity scene.....and we go all out. The thing is three tiers of heirloom figures. On the top tier are my great-grandma's manger figures and dozens of "sparkle town" houses she bought in the 1940s...and that we now find out are now valuable collectibles. Perhaps the most impressive feature is the cloth that drapes the entire scene, which we hang hundreds of glass ornaments from. Apparently my great-grandma started doing this, the ornaments represented stars. My dad pointed out today how cool it was that we were hanging up the exact same ornaments my great-grandma hung up so many years ago. It is very cool.
The nacimiento is a lot of work, especially for my mom, who does most of the work. The rest of us have tried to help out a lot more over the past few years so things are a little balanced now. We started it last night and have been working on it all day today....and it's only about half way done. Sometimes people don't realize how much work and time it takes. I remember a few years ago my parents actually considered not putting the Nacimiento up. Too much work, and it seemed like no one else in the family cared about it. But we decided that if anything, it was a really important tradition for us and my grandparents, even if the rest of the Sias bunch took it for granted. And sometimes it feels like they do, and that still dissapoints us.
Yesterday, one of my aunts made a slightly upsetting remark about why we even bother putting it up if its so much work. She probably wasn't entirely serious...but it's still bugs. The Nacimiento is about our culture, and putting it up is a way to honor our culture and our family's past. I'm sure if we didn't put it up, most everyone would miss it and complain that it wasn't there come Tamale Day...(if they even show up on Tamale day). If only they could be a little more appreciative and a little more helpful without us having to take it away. This really should be a thing that the whole family is a part of and trys to take some ownership of. So cousins, if you are reading this....the Nacimiento isn't just my family's tradition, its yours too.
Saturday, December 14, 2002
Friday the 13th is over. I survived. My grades? Completely up in the air. But it's over....can't do anything about them now. My fate is sealed. So....although I'd rather try to not remember the beginning of the day...the end of the day is something I do not want to ever forget.
I did end up going to San Francisco for dinner tonight with some of my closest friends from studio. We went to celebrate our collective survival, and for me, it was a closing to my architecture studio career here at Berkeley. A bittersweet occassion. Went to Cheesecake factory, Lauren ended up driving some of us. The rain even died down, and the city was all lit up...which was so nice to see (despite the new neon wreaths that replaced the old real one's in Macy's windows on Union Square..Lauren and Leo know how I feel about that.....hehe) We had a really nice, laid back time. I even got my "tons o' fun burger" before the semester ended. We talked and talked about everything and anything, and when the convo died....I'd bring up some random subject like how i'm wearing mismatched socks today....and things would start back up again.
Funny how suddenly friends that were new last year, are good ol' friends at the end of this semester. Leo, Lauren and I, the studio triad (a Celtic thing according to Rory), go waaaaaay back (to CalSo....Cal Student Orientation). Funny how these people that I randomly met ended up being two of my closest friends at Cal. If you two happen to read this....I really appreciate you guys and the times we've spent together. And the people I've met this semester from my studio are just awesome. Lot's of funny and fun memories I'll never forget. Heck, they even dubbed me with a completely random nickname which I shall not utter here cause I know some of my other friends will adopt it to annoy me. Heck, Flavia and Rory even made up a song. It's sad that I won't have studio or perhaps even classes with many of them again....I really hope we are able to stay close.
The get together at Lauren's house after was also fun in a quirky way. Flavia's instinence that I tell my ghost stories, after I claimed that I tell good ghost stories, completely changed the tone of the evening, and I think most of us that were awake when we started talking about that subject are thoroughly freaked out tonight. But that's always a fun conversation to have....or at least exciting. I'm thankful Erik hasn't gone home yet because I wouldn't do so well being in the room alone right now. I hope Lauren sleeps well in her old somewhat haunted looking house, Flavia too. On the ride home, everything was "creepy" or "freaking us out." Hehe. Good times.
It's almost four o' clock am. I'm going back to Mountain View in the morning.and staying there until at most Tuesday (last final on Wed.) I'm starting to get tired just now. Today has been a very long day. But no matter what happens with my finals, it will be a good long day to remember thanks to the people that helped get me through some of the hardest work I've ever done. Thanks guys. Goodnight.
I did end up going to San Francisco for dinner tonight with some of my closest friends from studio. We went to celebrate our collective survival, and for me, it was a closing to my architecture studio career here at Berkeley. A bittersweet occassion. Went to Cheesecake factory, Lauren ended up driving some of us. The rain even died down, and the city was all lit up...which was so nice to see (despite the new neon wreaths that replaced the old real one's in Macy's windows on Union Square..Lauren and Leo know how I feel about that.....hehe) We had a really nice, laid back time. I even got my "tons o' fun burger" before the semester ended. We talked and talked about everything and anything, and when the convo died....I'd bring up some random subject like how i'm wearing mismatched socks today....and things would start back up again.
Funny how suddenly friends that were new last year, are good ol' friends at the end of this semester. Leo, Lauren and I, the studio triad (a Celtic thing according to Rory), go waaaaaay back (to CalSo....Cal Student Orientation). Funny how these people that I randomly met ended up being two of my closest friends at Cal. If you two happen to read this....I really appreciate you guys and the times we've spent together. And the people I've met this semester from my studio are just awesome. Lot's of funny and fun memories I'll never forget. Heck, they even dubbed me with a completely random nickname which I shall not utter here cause I know some of my other friends will adopt it to annoy me. Heck, Flavia and Rory even made up a song. It's sad that I won't have studio or perhaps even classes with many of them again....I really hope we are able to stay close.
The get together at Lauren's house after was also fun in a quirky way. Flavia's instinence that I tell my ghost stories, after I claimed that I tell good ghost stories, completely changed the tone of the evening, and I think most of us that were awake when we started talking about that subject are thoroughly freaked out tonight. But that's always a fun conversation to have....or at least exciting. I'm thankful Erik hasn't gone home yet because I wouldn't do so well being in the room alone right now. I hope Lauren sleeps well in her old somewhat haunted looking house, Flavia too. On the ride home, everything was "creepy" or "freaking us out." Hehe. Good times.
It's almost four o' clock am. I'm going back to Mountain View in the morning.and staying there until at most Tuesday (last final on Wed.) I'm starting to get tired just now. Today has been a very long day. But no matter what happens with my finals, it will be a good long day to remember thanks to the people that helped get me through some of the hardest work I've ever done. Thanks guys. Goodnight.
Monday, December 09, 2002
Ya, I'm in a strange mood. I'm easily irretable and agitated. I find myself both tired and awake, bored and overwhelmed at the same time. Studio is over and this is the aftermath of working non stop for the past month. I feel slightly disconnected from my non-studio friends here, and I really don't have the time to reconnect because the gigantic dark cloud of Friday the 13th, the day of my stats and music final, looms ahead.
The fact that all my grades (except city planning....A+ baby) are entirely up in the air right now has me very nervous. I've worked so damn hard in stats and studio, and to be unsure what my grades are this late is tough. And my music class was a joke, I felt like I wasted units taking that class. Now I have to force myself to care about it for the sake of my GPA. These two finals are very important, and they both are on the same day. I'm having a tough time figuring out how to balance the study load.
And of course there's this weird feeling of being homesick from studio......you spend so much time with one group of people, and even though it can unbelievably hardwork, you still miss their company. It's like coming home from war. What I really need is a break between now and finals to readjust, but I won't get that. Gotta shift gears and jump right from the studio to the study wagon.
And ...being in Berkeley during the month of Decemeber is painfull. It just does not feel like Christmas here, especially in the dorms. There are no Christmas lights except on Telegraph Avenue (which smells like shit when it rains....which it is). TV Christmas specials, movies, and songs seem hallow when your watching or listening to them by yourself in your dorm room instead of with family and surrounded by the warmth of home.
And there's so many little things at home that I miss. My mom does a fantastic job of decorating the house despite her tough work schedule, and I miss seeing that when I wake up in the morning. I'd like to help set up the Nacimiento. I'd like to have my dad make hot chocolate in the evening and watch Christmas movies with my whole family. I'd like to go outside and stand in front of our house and admire the lights and explore other neighborhoods to see how they've decorated for the holidays. Heck, I even have a hankering to go to church. And most importantly, I'd like to be there for my grandparents, especially my grandpa, during this tough week for him. Time is precious, especially time with my grandparents.
So I'm anxious to go home. Even more anxious to get these finals over with. Come Friday some huge weights will be lifted off my shoulders, and if things go as planned I might go to SF with my studio section to celebrate our collective survival and the holidays. Maybe then it'll start to feel a little more like Christmas here in Berkeley.
The fact that all my grades (except city planning....A+ baby) are entirely up in the air right now has me very nervous. I've worked so damn hard in stats and studio, and to be unsure what my grades are this late is tough. And my music class was a joke, I felt like I wasted units taking that class. Now I have to force myself to care about it for the sake of my GPA. These two finals are very important, and they both are on the same day. I'm having a tough time figuring out how to balance the study load.
And of course there's this weird feeling of being homesick from studio......you spend so much time with one group of people, and even though it can unbelievably hardwork, you still miss their company. It's like coming home from war. What I really need is a break between now and finals to readjust, but I won't get that. Gotta shift gears and jump right from the studio to the study wagon.
And ...being in Berkeley during the month of Decemeber is painfull. It just does not feel like Christmas here, especially in the dorms. There are no Christmas lights except on Telegraph Avenue (which smells like shit when it rains....which it is). TV Christmas specials, movies, and songs seem hallow when your watching or listening to them by yourself in your dorm room instead of with family and surrounded by the warmth of home.
And there's so many little things at home that I miss. My mom does a fantastic job of decorating the house despite her tough work schedule, and I miss seeing that when I wake up in the morning. I'd like to help set up the Nacimiento. I'd like to have my dad make hot chocolate in the evening and watch Christmas movies with my whole family. I'd like to go outside and stand in front of our house and admire the lights and explore other neighborhoods to see how they've decorated for the holidays. Heck, I even have a hankering to go to church. And most importantly, I'd like to be there for my grandparents, especially my grandpa, during this tough week for him. Time is precious, especially time with my grandparents.
So I'm anxious to go home. Even more anxious to get these finals over with. Come Friday some huge weights will be lifted off my shoulders, and if things go as planned I might go to SF with my studio section to celebrate our collective survival and the holidays. Maybe then it'll start to feel a little more like Christmas here in Berkeley.
Thursday, December 05, 2002
EricE823: haha nick
Auto response from Nap98: how's this for jargon:
I'm up at the sleep deprivation chamber (aka wuster) deconstructing my final model because the tectonics of my material selection was not architectonic enough. My selection of tan museum board for ground treatment clouded the original poetics of my parti and I need to build a new one out of brown chip board with acetone transfer on my old topo.
whoopa.
EricE823: your away message is hilarious, although i feel for you
EricE823: : what the hell are u talking about?
EricE823: : crazy architecture jargon
For those of you that were curious, the acetone transfer was a bust and I just decided to use the back of my biggie jumbo as the ground cover for my model.
(And before any of you dirty dirty people say anything, a biggie jumbo is a large drawing pad.)
Final project status:
Site Plan - done
Cross Section - done
Longitudal Section - done
Final model - far frome done.
Presentation board - what presentation board?
Presentation Outline - I have to say something?
Auto response from Nap98: how's this for jargon:
I'm up at the sleep deprivation chamber (aka wuster) deconstructing my final model because the tectonics of my material selection was not architectonic enough. My selection of tan museum board for ground treatment clouded the original poetics of my parti and I need to build a new one out of brown chip board with acetone transfer on my old topo.
whoopa.
EricE823: your away message is hilarious, although i feel for you
EricE823: : what the hell are u talking about?
EricE823: : crazy architecture jargon
For those of you that were curious, the acetone transfer was a bust and I just decided to use the back of my biggie jumbo as the ground cover for my model.
(And before any of you dirty dirty people say anything, a biggie jumbo is a large drawing pad.)
Final project status:
Site Plan - done
Cross Section - done
Longitudal Section - done
Final model - far frome done.
Presentation board - what presentation board?
Presentation Outline - I have to say something?
Tuesday, December 03, 2002
The pendulem swings again. I either hate studio or I sorta like it. Right now I sorta like it. I still have four days to finish my final project so things aren't as rushed as usual. One of the four things I have due, a section, was completed and to my amazement....given the thumbs up by my section leader.
I enjoy spending time with my studio friends. We can talk about anything and everything....even our projects and architecture sometimes. I'll miss them a lot. It's weird that this is my last week.
I told my grandpa about studio, he said it sounds a lot like going to war. I agree! My studio section is my platoon. We go through hell together. My section leader, our my sergeant. We love to hate him, but in reality he's a good guy who wants to guide us and help us out. Our mission in this war....finish our final projects before Sunday. Hopefully I can yell mission accomplished before Saturday night.
I enjoy spending time with my studio friends. We can talk about anything and everything....even our projects and architecture sometimes. I'll miss them a lot. It's weird that this is my last week.
I told my grandpa about studio, he said it sounds a lot like going to war. I agree! My studio section is my platoon. We go through hell together. My section leader, our my sergeant. We love to hate him, but in reality he's a good guy who wants to guide us and help us out. Our mission in this war....finish our final projects before Sunday. Hopefully I can yell mission accomplished before Saturday night.
Monday, December 02, 2002
So the weekend was good, but....it sorta had a bittersweet feeling to it. First of all....it just plain sucks that I have to be in Berkeley at all during the month of December, I do not want to be here/studio. And on another level.....either I'm paying more attention, or life in my family is moving more quickly. Traditions are changing, lives are shifting. It's tough to deal with, because I grew up for so long thinking that my family was something that would never change. I was lucky enough to never have that illusion broken by something like divorce or tragedy.
But the years are going by....no one can stop or deny the changes they bring. I see my grandparent's getting older. My grandma more forgetful, my grandpa not as strong as he used to be...and what's harder is that now they're both admitting and realizing it. Thanksgiving was moved to my oldest (or longest loved) aunt's house. It was nice, my aunt, uncle, and cousins did a good job setting the place up. But Thanksgiving was the last major holiday at my house/grandparents house. Until last year, our compound used to be the hub of our family's life throughout the year. Birthday parties, random get togethers and the two biggies, Easter and Thanksgiving. It was great to have everyone there, to have both houses and yards filled with family and friends. I think we're going to work on getting either Thanksgiving or Easter back there.
Regardless of where these celebrations are, I try to remind myself how great it is that we have them at all. It's wonderful that the 30+ members of my family and our close friends still live close enough, and get along well enough, to come together throughout the year and cram ourselves into some relative's house for a day. Except for one of my cousin's and her new husband, every member of my mom's family made an appereance at Thanksgiving this year. The location might change, but what really matters is that we stick together and work to keep our traditions going in some shape or form. Sappy yes. But also very true.
So anyways...all this talk about family and the holidays has me thinking about a song from my favorite Christmas movie, A Muppet Christmas Carol. (If you haven't seen this movie.....I have the DVD and I plan on watching it some time this week or next to cheer me up after studio has knocked me to the ground and grinded my face against the floor littered with the scraps of my original "too Cancun-resort like" model.)
So here are the wise words right from Kermit's mouth:
Life is full of sweet surprises, everday's a gift.
The sun comes up and I can feel it lift my spirit.
It fills me up with laughter, fills me up with song,
I look into the eyes of love and know where I belong.
Bless us all, who gather here
The loving family I hold dear
No place on Earth, compares with home,
And every path will bring me back from where I roam.
Bless us all, that as we live.
We always comfort and forgive.
We have so much, that we can share.
With those in need we see around us everywhere.
Let us always love each other,
Lead us towards the light.
Let us hear the voice of reason,
Singing in the night.
Let us run from anger
And catch us when we fall.
Teach us in our dreams and please, yes, please,
Bless us one and all.
Bless us all, with playful years.
With noisy games and joyous tears,
We reach for you, and we stand tall
And in our prayers and dreams we ask you bless us all."
But the years are going by....no one can stop or deny the changes they bring. I see my grandparent's getting older. My grandma more forgetful, my grandpa not as strong as he used to be...and what's harder is that now they're both admitting and realizing it. Thanksgiving was moved to my oldest (or longest loved) aunt's house. It was nice, my aunt, uncle, and cousins did a good job setting the place up. But Thanksgiving was the last major holiday at my house/grandparents house. Until last year, our compound used to be the hub of our family's life throughout the year. Birthday parties, random get togethers and the two biggies, Easter and Thanksgiving. It was great to have everyone there, to have both houses and yards filled with family and friends. I think we're going to work on getting either Thanksgiving or Easter back there.
Regardless of where these celebrations are, I try to remind myself how great it is that we have them at all. It's wonderful that the 30+ members of my family and our close friends still live close enough, and get along well enough, to come together throughout the year and cram ourselves into some relative's house for a day. Except for one of my cousin's and her new husband, every member of my mom's family made an appereance at Thanksgiving this year. The location might change, but what really matters is that we stick together and work to keep our traditions going in some shape or form. Sappy yes. But also very true.
So anyways...all this talk about family and the holidays has me thinking about a song from my favorite Christmas movie, A Muppet Christmas Carol. (If you haven't seen this movie.....I have the DVD and I plan on watching it some time this week or next to cheer me up after studio has knocked me to the ground and grinded my face against the floor littered with the scraps of my original "too Cancun-resort like" model.)
So here are the wise words right from Kermit's mouth:
Life is full of sweet surprises, everday's a gift.
The sun comes up and I can feel it lift my spirit.
It fills me up with laughter, fills me up with song,
I look into the eyes of love and know where I belong.
Bless us all, who gather here
The loving family I hold dear
No place on Earth, compares with home,
And every path will bring me back from where I roam.
Bless us all, that as we live.
We always comfort and forgive.
We have so much, that we can share.
With those in need we see around us everywhere.
Let us always love each other,
Lead us towards the light.
Let us hear the voice of reason,
Singing in the night.
Let us run from anger
And catch us when we fall.
Teach us in our dreams and please, yes, please,
Bless us one and all.
Bless us all, with playful years.
With noisy games and joyous tears,
We reach for you, and we stand tall
And in our prayers and dreams we ask you bless us all."