To Virginia -- AND back to Illinois!

The last few weeks have been a break period for me. It gave me the chance to assess over things seeing how one scenario can differ from that of the existing lifestyle I already have. I had to decide if I wanted to go back to Virginia and continue with life there. It was also the opportunity to catch up on old times with fellow family members and loyal friends. And it all begins with 17 plus hours going out of Illinois. I never knew I could pull such a feat like that after drinking one bottle of Pepsi Throwback. Shockingly enough, I realized I never slept. I just kept driving the Civic all the way to its destination: Virginia Beach. Driving back home caught my dad's attention by surprise. He saw my Civic w/ it's Illinois tags going up the driveway. It was great to receive a wonderful hug from dad. And then from mom when she came home from work. It was also good to chat alongside my wonderful brothers Jay and Jeff. As time stretched along, I was missing out on the great atmosphere of IL, including those that I have already affiliated myself with, including co-workers and my girlfriend, too. I was watching ESPN too seeing the White Sox struggle against their rivals, the Minnesota Twins. And it was disappointing to see 'em go down like that. Inside of me, I felt I wanted to go forth in continuing the life in Illinois. Seems that Virginia is okay, but I think its best to be in Illinois for the time being. It gives me a chance to grow personally, professionally and spiritually as a person. It also gives me the opportunity to be the best boyfriend to my girlfriend because she really deserves nothing but the best out of her man. Plus, I like to develop my friendships to the people out there. Perhaps I'll find ones that are trustworthy and decent such as Jimmy and Ray (my friends for well over 10+ years now). So I had to leave once again and head back. Make that another 17+ hours of driving. Once again, I wasn't tired. One thing changed, however. No Pepsi Throwback here. I had a chicken tenders meal from Hardees, a bottle of Mountain Dew Code Red, a bag of Lays potato chips, a caramel frap from Starbucks and lastly, the big breakfast deluxe in McDonald's. Going back felt like forever and thank God He gave me the strength to make it. The best reward is giving a big hug to my girlfriend. I love her so much. So now begins the next chapter of life in Illinois. It's sure to be better than the previous one :-)

I got this from my friend Caleb

Happy moments, praise God.
Difficult moments, seek God.
Quiet moments, worship God.
Painful moments, trust God.
Every moment..... thank God.

"WHO DO YOU WANT TO BE LIKE?"

This was the message spoken in Int'l Christian Church in Virginia Beach today (Sunday).

"WHO DO YOU WANT TO BE LIKE?"

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of the letter of Paul to the Thessalonians was to encourage the believers to stay faithful, to stay strong, and to hang in there. It talks a lot about problems and the struggles of life; it talks about the blessed hope, the second coming of Christ; and it talks about how to build a life that is pleasing to God, and life that is sturdy and dependable - like a rock.

We will look at principles on how to build a strong character. The first step is choosing the right influences for yourself. It's in deciding on who you're going to be like, whose example you're going to follow.

So we'll talk today about what to look for in a good influence.

Here are three things:

1. Look for those who genuinely care about you. Verse 2; See 2:19., 3:9

2. Look for those who can lead with authenticity. Verse 5

3. Look for those who know how to keep their ego in check. See 2: 3-6; Galatians 1:10

CONCLUSION

The Thessalonicans not only followed the example of Paul, Silas, and Timothy. They also became an example for the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.

The whole world was talking about this church in Thessalonica that had turned their back on their idols and their pagan worship and had become devoted followers of Jesus Christ - followers who had endured all kinds of persecution, and had remained faithful to the gospel.

They became an example to believers throughout the world, because they knew whose example to follow. This is step one in developing character.

Who do you listen to?

Who do you follow?

Who do you imitate?

The Belmeade Fire

The 2-alarm blaze itself on Bathley Place (a street that intersects with Broadholme Place - where my family's house is)

Yesterday was a tragedy in the Belmeade section of Ridgely Manor (a condo neighborhood where my currently family reside at). This is where I used to live and do most of my jogging at (thanks in part to the wonderful paths, especially the ones surrounding the man-made pond. However, this latest story paints a somber picture in the neighborhood I have come to love and admire. The news footage showed everything - the walkways and the pond - but it breaks my heart to see some of our residents homes' go up in smokes like that. It was only a few minutes then that the fires went out of control from one house to the next. Police and ambulance/rescue came in first before the firetrucks rolled in. But it was too little, too late. Families lost their homes as well as beloved pets that also perished within the flames. Total losses are estimated at over $1 million .... I am grateful that these residents are getting as much help and support from their neighbors, even if it's a temporary place to stay and sleep. The power of the human spirit always overshadow these unexpected events ... In regards to my family, they are OK and I'm glad that they are also checking on fellow neighbors.

Microwave Society

We live in a microwave society today where we all want and demand things now in just about any area in life (i.e. personal, professional, recreational, etc.) ... seems that we're all wearing thin in our patience and instead hasten quickly in an instant on anything really ... agree?

I admit I was once like that, but as I grew older and wiser, I've decided to step back frm what most of the world is going thru now w/ their demands and such..however, its only a step back in my approach. I'm usually patient in dealing with things but I must still demand for things if it's not meant at a given so-so time (thats a couple of minutes delay, that is) or during crucial instances...normally, I'm just more laid back in handling my matters usually listening more than jumping in so quickly. You can say I'm like a gentle Rocky Balboa listening to Adrian or Mickey in the movies. lol.

7/14 PHOTO BLOG: "Me with the Jordan statue @ United Center"

7/11/2010: Posing near the Michael Jordan statue @ United Center - Chicago, IL

When I was young, I loved basketball. But when Michael Jordan played with greatness, it was more than just the sport alone that I had passion for. It was about overcoming adversity and challenges in life, even through some of the most difficult times when things seemed impossible. MJ is a great icon for every kid to look up to. He exemplified what it took to be a true athlete with God-given abilities and at the same time, handling himself humbly off-the-court....MJ lives in everyone that loves to shoot hoops or dunk a ball. As for me, it's all about the jump shots and fade aways that I mimicked from MJ...I've had some memorable plays on-the-court that'll forever live in me and the people that were around seeing me do my best...And it was only last year that I bought a couple of MJ kicks and gear. Wearing those make me appreciate MJ with a lot of pride as I can now say to myself, "I wanna be like Mike."

Even better - I came to United Center feeling inspired again after seeing the statue of MJ.

7/14 Untitled Blog

Sometimes being a person of good character and good faith may just not be good enough for those that have fresh spoiled egos and diva standards. It's hard to please them and make their world a better place. I can't dictate them to change and telling them what's right from wrong. It's best to just not be a part of the whole mess altogether even though some seem to add me in-the-mix among their problems. Some may say this and that about me but I won't budge. It'll hardly have any bad effect or any ill-will towards me because I know deep inside I'm better than what they make me out to be. I instill confidence in myself. I do what I can to be positive-minded and staying true to the values I was taught. I also focus on the more important aspects in life rather than dwelling into other people's dramas and negative attitudes. I can only hope for the best in them flipping to the wonderful A side of life instead of always remaining on the B side...A special thanks to those that have seen the goodness in me. All of you inspire me :-)

Last weekend was a blast!

My bro, Jeff, came by to Chi-town last weekend and having him around was truly an honor! We spent most of the time in downtown Chicago where everything was happening - even the filming of 'TRANSFORMERS 3' was taking shape with the stunt work and rigged explosions. Thanks to my gf, we were able to plan out a couple of activities such as going on an architecture tour cruise, being on top in the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, and seeing a legendary sports landmark that still looks as good as new - Wrigley Field .... I was able to capture some of our highlights on picture and video. They are now featured exclusively on my Photobucket and YouTube links (located to the right in this blog page)...I'm glad that Jeff had a wonderful time during his stay in the Joliet area. Hopefully, he'll come by again in the not-so-distant future.

YOUTUBE Video:7/3/10 Fireworks show from Grand Independence Celebration in Downtown Joliet, IL

From My YOUTUBE channel:
[filmed with FLIP] 7.3.10 Highlights from the Grand "Independence Celebration" at the Will-Joliet Billie Limacher Bicentenial Park located in the heart of Downtown Joliet. Event lasted from 7:00-10:00pm. Music, food, fun & FIREWORKS 9:15 pm.

Happy July 4th in the good ol' USA!

A pic of me with the cornfields taken in Joliet, IL

It is the July 4th weekend and I want everyone to enjoy the holiday (as we all celebrate our nation's birthday). As a special treat, I uploaded this pic of me with the Illinois cornfields - and in the background, you see a transparent U.S. flag right where the sky is. GOD BLESS THE USA!!!

2010 NHL Stanley Cup Champions: The Chicago Blackhawks!

A mobile phone snapshot of myself in a Chicago Blackhawks hockey jersey

Congratulations to the Chicago Blackhawks, emerging victorious as they win the Stanley Cup Finals series 4-2 against their opponents, the Philadelphia Flyers. The team's captain, Jonathan Toews #19 was named MVP of the Series. Patrick Kane #88 scored the winning goal in OT in game 6. It is the Blackhawks' first win in a long time - as it has been 48 years without the Cup.

Igniting 8-0 Orlando Magic & The 2010 NBA Playoffs/Finals Picture

I am impressed of the Orlando Magic's performance in this season's NBA PLAYOFFS. So far, they are a solid 8-0 eliminating the other East division teams - the Charlotte Bobcats and the Atlanta Hawks from advancing further. So what's next for the Blue and White? Its the gang in green: The Boston Celtics. They are no strangers to the Finals mix like the opponents that they've just taken out - The Cleveland Cavaliers. The Magic, Cavaliers and Celtics always wound up facing each other to go against the West's possible and only threat: The Los Angeles Lakers. I don't see the Suns having the potential to be making it to the Finals although they have pulled off a great series against another West rival, the San Antonio Spurs. I think the Lakers will make it without a problem. They had some trouble earlier with the Oklahoma City Thunder, but seeked redemption with a sweep over the Utah Jazz easily going to the next round - the Western Conference Finals ... I think the Orlando Magic are a better team than last season. The loss over the Lakers brings forth renewed confidence and strength for Dwight Howard and Jameer Nelson who sat down while the other team celebrated on the Magic's own floor. I can sense the sequel happening all over again and I think that the Magic could possibly win it all if they keep up the 8-0 streak as well as believing in themselves (seeing how they got this far already). They've had stellar success against the Lakers in the regular season games. But as we all know, the playoffs and finals bring forth new light to any team out there. First things first. The Magic will have to face the Boston Celtics. It's gonna be tough. It's gonna be nasty. It's not gonna be a pretty picture either. And I've seen it with my own two eyes, as well. The Celtics are no joke. They are a legitimate threat. They killed the Magic in a game that me (a Magic fan) and my brother (a Celtics fan) went to check out in the O-rena. The Celtics drained 3s and jumpshots from all over in which it was too much for the Magic. Here's hoping to a memorable series with these two teams one of which will possibly face the Los Angeles Lakers (not the Phoenix Suns) in the 2010 Finals.

To be really patriotic is to go across the U.S.A.

It's been well over a decade now and I never imagined how far I have gotten to in visiting parts of the U.S.A, as well as becoming in resident in already two cities - Orlando, FL and Joliet, IL. It's an amazing feat, for sure, but I know I have long ways to go trekking myself across this wonderful land of ours. I've seen Times Square and Manhattan in New York, the great buildings including the Willis Tower in Chicago, the western part of VA (via west route 58) in Danville, the beaches of Ocean City, MD, the Disney and Universal parks in Orlando, FL, and the Chicago Speedway here in Joliet. If I had a map right now, I'll start thumbtacking where I've been and where I want to go next. I think California, Oregon, Arizona, and Washington would be the fitting conclusion to end the journey. Regarding the east coast, most of it has been completed in well over 10-12 years time. I've driven from Virginia Beach, VA to NYC and then Orlando, FL to Virginia Beach,VA. Pretty much the whole eastern seaboard. One thing's missing however. I would like to visit Boston, MA. That would be awesome .... But it's not just about the spots one visits. It gives the American citizen the expanded, in-depth, and unique perspectives of what makes this country great standing strong to the test of time. Wherever one goes, it's America - from north to south and east to west. People may seem different from the lifestyle that we are accustomed to living all our lives, but they are no different from you or I. We are all part of a United America. To be really patriotic for your country it to go across the U.S.A. seeing your fellow American counterparts from all over and having that full appreciation during and when the journey has reached its climactic end. And this is when you'll get that wholesomeness to the red, white and blue flag that stands before you and the men and women that put their lives for it, for us.

One Thing Leads To Another During The Good & Bad Parts in Life

My life in Illinois has become more stressful than what I've thought earlier (before the move there). I anticipated on exciting things to happen, but instead it's the bad elements that seem to be dominant thus far. Could all this signal or foreshadow something new, something great to come? I believe that life's rhythms flow with the good and the bad - and how one can cope in solving the bad bringing about the goodness again. Sometimes I also think that one good or bad event can also lead to another and so forth. I never thought I'd ever end up in the surrounding areas of Chicago, but I'm here for a reason (for now). I do remember that I left for Orlando, Florida a few years back because I wanted to start my life again after a few setbacks. And I didn't even know that I'd be led back to Virginia for most of 2009. Kinda crazy, huh. Seems like I'm an adventurer going from place to place living the life as my friend Jimmy said to me in a phone call a couple days ago. Thanks to the Lord for making me strong in spite of whatever situation and circumstance I face. I know He'll provide and make things better again in my life. If it's in His will to make the change, I'll go forth with it...One thing leads to another during the good & bad parts in life.

Illuminati Connection w/ Jay-Z & others ???

A friend of mine's recently told me about this a few days ago. I was completely unaware and dumbfounded of a theory that has been happening for quite a while now (possibly for around two years or so). It's about stars like Jay-Z, Beyonce (w/ her alias Sasha Fierce), Kanye West, and Rihanna having some sort of Illuminati connection somehow linking them to the elements of darkness, the occult, secret societies and establishing a new world order type of revolution. The hidden clues are shown in some of their near-recent/latest music videos (i.e. Jay-Z's "Run This Town" , Rihanna's "Umbrella" ) rap/song lyrics, finger/hand poses, Jay-Z's clothing line Rocawear, and interviews. As these stars continue to gain the notoriety and fame in this world winning the masses, one can only wonder what direction they are now taking with the dark schemes, weird lyrics and bizarre personalities. For sure, it's not like in their heydays where they seemed a little bit more innocent back then. So what's my take on this? I respect these artists for what they do in marketing/promoting their products and I definitely don't take this Illuminati thing super seriously as some may do. But it's surely an interesting topic to talk about amongst friends because all of what's happening is getting really weird and out of hand. One thing's for sure - I'm not really into most of the music scene today. The majority of the music today hinges on crap and craziness, basically - heck, they don't even have the pop appeal, feel-goodness or the meaningful lyrics like the 80s had ... Jay-Z has the grasp of the world at the palm of his hand with his vision and direction - and he can do anything to entice his loyal fans. All I can say, folks, is be careful what you're buying, what you're listening and what you're seeing. One can fall prey into that trap of illusions and such appearing as real if one takes it 100%. As for me, I've pretty much ignored the whole thing altogether and going about my duties. This Jay-Z thing doesn't affect me at all even if all of this is just a grand illusion. A great entertainer and artist he is right now, but not my type for my eyes and ears. The same now goes for those artists that link with him. We can only hope for the goodness in this world and for them to come out w/ more brighter, inspiring positive material along the way. Because in the end, GOOD always wins over EVIL.

Watertowers everywhere in the area!

Ever since I took a job that requires me to travel up to 30 miles or more, there was something out there that always stood every time I went to a certain city/town/area, etc. Its the watertower. No matter where one goes in the areas adjacent to Chicago, you wouldn't miss these structures at all. They're all out there including Bolingbrook, Joliet, Crest Hill, Naperville, Aurora, and even Statesville where the well-known prison is. There's more out there that I haven't even seen yet. And I do hope to take a pic of these structures one of these days to show you all.

First Day of Spring Still Brings Snow in IL

After a few days of decent temps and sunny skies in this part of Illinois, low and behold the flurries/snow that was to usher itself in on the first day of spring - Saturday, March 20, 2010. Minor accumulations took place in certain parts of the areas adjacent to Chicago. At first, I thought it was to be a bit warmer in the morning - but the snow itself surprised me while heading out the door. So I grabbed my hoodie and proceeded forth with my grocery activities. Looks like spring has came in right on the ticker, but winter still wants to make itself known. Hopefully it is the last day of snow as it bids adieu until late in the year (when it gets cold again).

The Willis Tower Experience

My girlfriend and I went to the Willis Tower on Saturday, March 6th.

It was our visit to Downtown Chicago since last December when I was a then-tourist who lived in Virginia during that time. This time, it's a little bit different from our previous experience.

We were able to take a train from Joliet, IL rather than drive a long commute to Chicago on I-55. I found it to be very convenient especially taking advantage of the $6.00 round trip fare that day. The Metra train is a great mode of transportation despite the several stops it made before making its way to the LaSalle station in Chicago.

Blocks away stood the Willis Tower (known by its previous naming: Sears Tower).

She was a beauty! The tallest building in Chicago - and was a world record-holder for a while in regards to it's extraordinary feat heightwise. Architects Bruce Graham and Fazlur Khan devised such a great structure along with the construction workers that brought it to life through their perseverance and hard work.

You know, I was confused, at first. I had mistakened the Hancock Tower to the Sears Tower. So in case if anyone on Facebook watches my December video, I would refer to it as the Sears Tower wherein fact, it really isn't. Duh, on my part. Architect Fazlur Khan was also the one behind this building project as well.

Going back to the Willis Tower experience itself, it was a thrill. From the get-go, everyone lined up to get their tickets in order to head over to the Skydeck on the 103rd floor. Facts and info of the Tower were shown all over the walls including comparisons to Michael Jordan, Oprah Winfrey, and even Barack Obama, respectively.

Once the tickets were purchased, we proceeded towards the next door which reveals a more in-depth personal tour including a brief 10-15 minute movie showing the historical significance of the then-Sears Tower, now named Willis Tower.

The elevator ride was pretty fast speeding its way towards the 103rd floor. Some people's ears popped, but I kept my mouth opened as we went up.

And so here I was on the 103rd floor with my girlfriend. We made it to the very top. I was able to film some video clips as well as take pictures from up above. Looking down on the city was the ultimate experience all its own, especially being in a transparent ledge. You can see what's beneath your feet. That's just how awesome it really is. As an added bonus, tourists/visitors can get their pictures taken professionally by the Willis Tower touring guide staff. We had our shot at the transparent ledge. I hope to show Mom & Dad these pictures sometime.

For $22 each on admission, including the $32 photograph set to total around $54, me and my girlfriend enjoyed the Willis Tower experience.

Hopefully we can let fellow friends and family witness this great spectacle event in the future. It's something one can't miss out on, believe me. You'll love it!

ALERT..ALERT, everyone! I Have New Pics & Videos

As mentioned on my last blog, I was working on uploading new photos and video clips. This means that the internet activity is going on strong again from my end. From last weekend, I was able to compile a couple of exclusive video pieces together (as well as digital photographs) that show the Illinois life. Just recently, I've went 'around-and-about' in the area.... Thanks to the many people that have been asking about photos & videos recently. You guys inspire me to get things on a roll.

And now it's time to show what I have. I'd love to share these with you all. Enjoy them!

Click HERE to see photographs showing my life in Illinois. Sure, there may not be much now, but it's a start having to put a couple of 'em in there.

OR

If you wish to see video clips instead, click on the YouTube video links 1 and 2. You will be able to view my experience being inside the Willis Tower in the heart of Downtown Chicago and searching for the Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet.

(On a related note, I was able to upload some exclusive photos & video clips that would not be seen anywhere else, except on Facebook.)

Pictures & Videos from Illinois - Coming Soon

I must admit there hasn't been that much activity on this website since my arrival in IL a few days ago. I'm still trying to get myself settled down in this great city of Joliet. Lots of good, friendly people I've met so far. I'm getting the 'feel' for this place now as its starting to become like a new home for me. So with that in mind, I have to start illustrating this more through pictures and photos to come soon. Hopefully, I can get this launched as early as this weekend in which I am supposedly heading to Chicago (since my last visit in December). Snapshots of Joliet, IL will also be included ... To my brother Jeff, I hope to get that shot of the Chicagoland Speedway for you ... The photo project is to be shown on my Photobucket link. Look out for it.