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.

Thanks to all my friends for the well-wishes!

I would like to take the time right now to thank the many friends that remain supportive of my move to Illinois, as well as expressing their well-wishes for me.

I look forward to meeting you all again really soon, whether you're in sunny Florida or in feel-good Virginia.

Take care always. Till we all meet again.

Facing another new world

I've finally made it to the southwestern area of Chicago. It was a really long 15+ hour drive that started off in Virginia Beach, VA. The journey itself lasted around a day and a half, thanks in part to a brief stayover at a hotel in Bedford, PA [adjacent to the exit on the Pennsylvania Turnpike] ... Through all the driving can pose some challenges. That meant keeping caution to a clipper winter storm that was about to make its presence known during the time I'm about to leave. Originally, I was intending to cut through different states to avoid toll roads but someone thought about the latter. She said that it would be also adviseable to take those as a way to save an hour's worth of driving time, as well as go further on to avoid the worst weather coming in. The most intimidating parts to driving were the up & down, zig-zag roads on the Pennsylvania Turnpike AND the possible freeze of roads exiting Indiana towards Illinois on route 80 (while it was snowing) ... After that was all said and done, its now another chapter in my life. I'm facing another new world. I look back at my yesterdays in Hampton Roads, VA and in Orlando, FL - and I know exactly what's in store. Illinois will take some getting used to, for sure, especially having to know all the routes, places, and people, in general. The one thing I'm blessed so far is having the chance to work again. That feeling alone puts a big smile on my face because it's been a struggle not having to work since the first week of December, in addition to not getting unemployment benefits. I'm glad most of the frustration is gone now. I can start anew. It's time to script another chapter in life - and seeing how far this'll go.

Untitled Blog - 2/13/2010

Spent the whole day yesterday dealing w/ car fixtures. I'm surprised I wasn't even tired through it all, especially during the end. Midas did a wonderful job in getting my car's much-needed repairs done up until the last part: they couldn't do my alignment (as a way for the car's brand new struts to adjust). The last minute, the folks from Bert's Alignment came in to help me with the unresolved matter. All I needed was the front-end alignment and it was done in no less than 20 minutes tops. Bert's Alignment specializes in the alignment needs for my car because it had lower springs. They were so compassionate and helpful. I thank God that this adventure ended well ... With all of that done now, I was ready to do the rest this morning. I got new wiper blades (since my previous ones were worn out already). I also got rain-x to repel rain, sleet or snow on the windshield ... So what's next? Last minute packing. Here we go.

Our morals/values stooping low now

Looking at these crazy Super Bowl TV ads (including the sitcoms as well), it seems that our morals and values are stooping so low more than ever before. Mostly gone from TV are the random acts of kindness, looking out for one another, or simply delivering a good message one can learn from. Instead, it's all replaced by vulgarity, absolute crudeness, graphic violence, and sexual-related content. There are still a few good ads that show about caring - take for instance the AT & T commercial featuring NBA star Tyler Hansbrough. He was there at the very end giving the girl her lost dog. Here's hoping that someone in TV or TV ad land can bring about some decency on the TV tube in the near future. I think we've already gone way too far in making ourselves look so stupid.

Congrats to the Saints & the city of New Orleans!

Although I am a Buccaneers' fan by heart, I am happy for the city of New Orleans and to their football team - The Saints. They are the newly-crowned 2010 Super Bowl Champs winning 31-17 against the Indianapolis Colts in Super Bowl 44. With this victory now cemented in NFL history books, it was more than just a 'win' - but the team itself brought about hope for a city that had went through so much since the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina a few years ago. When the people needed the Saints, they were there - to help rebuild and restore the great city for its citizens. They had a chance to relocate somewhere in another state, but they put the concerns and cares on the New Orleans community rather than putting the emphasis and focus on themselves. QB Drew Brees and Coach Sean Payton, along with the team gave it their all to help and put into perspective the struggles that the city was going through. And in that, they all found inspiration - to play for the great city of New Orleans and to have the will-to-win. Sure, it took a while to get where they wanted to go but they pressed on no matter the outcome of the every season, every year. Their stepping stone to the top would later result to an impressive over-the-top 2009-2010 season in which they almost had an undefeated record towards the end (just like the Colts), as well as capitalizing victories in the playoffs against NFC rivals - the Arizona Cardinals and the Minnesota Vikings. And of course, the huge exclamation mark itself was the Super Bowl 44 victory in which the team gave it all back to the fans, the community, and the people of New Orleans for all that they've went through. Together, in unison, they emerge victorious through it all. Congratulations once again to the city of New Orleans, the Saints and the WHO DAT nation!

Possibility of 'Transformers 3' filming in Chicago, IL?

Besides the anticipated news of myself planning a move to the Chicago area in just a few more days from now, there is word that director Michael Bay is scouting some U.S. cities for his next TF movie - and it turns out that the Windy City itself may have the potential green light to be an ideal shooting location for 'Transformers 3' according to this article ... It would be awesome to see all the spectacular, high-octane action featuring all the autobot/decepticon vehicles right in the heart of Chicago. Filming is to take place sometime in the summer and here's hoping that Chicago will be one of the cities shown in 'Transformers 3.'

Should I be a car salesperson? Hmm. Let me think.

My friends have been in this type of profession. Some hang on - and they do so well. Some no longer have the means to do this - and they move forth into something else. But I ask myself, what if I had gotten into this? Can I ultimately succeed at auto sales? Do I have what it takes? With a voice like an on-air personality, looking the part w/ a suit, GQ-style and having a bald head as shiny as the new vehicles themselves (hehe), I think I just might have the chance to do well. But I think it's wise to do some in-depth online research regarding a career in car sales. This one link proves to have a fascinating insight letting me know what it's all about before jumping into it. Just imagine - Jonnyroobs - car salesman. Hmmm. Could be a possibility. Or just one of those 'what-if' stories.

Be careful of your movie career, Taylor Lautner.

Taylor Lautner is a respectable, decent actor playing the role of Jacob in Twilight. His character in that series would make every teenage girl swoon (maybe my 16-year old daughter would too if I had her in my family life right now..lol..then again, I don't have one) especially showing off too much of the dieseled, athletic physique he has (a 'hot-bod' in ladies' terminology..hehe). But after his SNL (Saturday Night Live) stint, he's now heading right towards the path of outrageousness - Max Steel, Stretch Armstrong, etc.? WHAT'S NEXT? PLASTIC MAN?????? Seems like Lautner's agent's not giving him a chance to develop his acting skills first with independent, low-budget type flicks. Instead he's trying to persuade him to take on these character roles possibly for quirky, corny kiddie movies making a star's quality in Hollywood stoop so low even though one has the $$$ -> the direction where Dwayne Johnson and Eddie Murphy are already now in, unfortunately ... Be careful on your film choices, Taylor Lautner, especially when you're just breaking through in Hollywood at a young age. Then again, you can always opt for the PLASTIC MAN character one day and keep going for more of these really outrageous crazy characters in the not-too-distant-future! lolz. I guess the more money offers Taylor Lautner can get - he can certainly play that part, too.

It's official: I'm moving to the Chicago area.

The 'official' word is out there now and the 'Jonnyroobs Centralized' banner says it all w/ it's images. I'm moving to the Chicago area and should arrive by the 16th (weather permitting). Here's to a great restart for 2010. Gonna make great things happen in my life, and most of all - rely on my faith more often.

GUEST BLOG: Biblical stuff from my friend Ken in CA...

"God controls all carnal resource on earth.. Once apply faith and Word that equals manfestation...All I'm sayin homie is this: your current circumstances don't determine your future outcome.. Your faith in the unthinkable determines your outcome... Which is Christ and his finish work.. John 19:30..There is only one Judge, and no man on this earth can bind you...Experience freedom and not bondage...Your life was determined from the begining of time and finished out..That was all holy spirit ma ninja... I'm just flowin formless......Just know that.. You will not perish in hell for your sins.. You will perish for not believing in Christ... We will always be sinners as long as we breathe air.. No one can escape the clutches of this world..However... Applying faith and Word you know be seen as righteous and in God's eyes
Word = Christ..The Law is bondage.. Thou shalt not steal.. thou shalt not kill...etc...Christ walked it out blameless and sinless and died a living sacrafice for all of mankind to return to there inheritence. Sin is a mistaken identity, not a bad deed... So you are free.. Know christ... Call on the Holy Spirit for daily direction, and you will begin to fall in to God's will which is a perfect equation that always equals LIFE and not death!...You cannot interupt the mistaken identity on your own accord. STOP IT! Your efforts to stop sinning will only futher but into shame and guilt...Confess to God in the name of Jesus.. God made flesh... Your are forgiven... No need to ask for forgiveness... Confess and then keep it pushin... Seek the Kingdom above all and God's perfect plan for your life will be be revieled...But wait... That sounds like a spiritual escape into fantasy right...Oh contraire.. Mon frair and Suer.... Once you become sick of being sick and reach the crossroads... which way will you go...Left... into No man's land, Back... into the same mess, Right ... into insanity... Or straight... Into freedom... God is simple... We are the only thieves who rob ourselves of that freedom... Not the devil.. He has no power.. He is a defeated entity... He only has power if you give him power... There isn't a battle between good and evil.. The student will never be greater than his master...The devil is a bad seed that has fallen... We are the carnal living in flesh, but dead in spirit.. Until u know Christ... God cannot see you... Because you are as filthy as rags to him... However, because God controls all resources on earth are a pond and and instrument for God's greater purpose... Wouldn't it be nice to know your position on the chess board and play your position instead of being simply used.. Which even that is awesome.. if you think about it... God has his hands on your life whether you want it or not... Like a dominoe effect...Once God can see your spiritual self you are now walking with him and beginning a journey back to Eden.. Which Eden literally means in his presence... We were never meant to know nothing but his grace and mercy.. and reflect on him like mirrors...watever God's mission is for those words... Let his will be down on earth as it is in heaven."

Centralized!

With my website of 6-years, JONNYROOBS.NET soon to reach its inevitable end on 2/14/2010, my blog page will now emerge to take its place on the spotlight - and even changing it's name, as well. Once called 'Jonnyroobs Central,' it'll now be referred as 'Jonnyroobs Centralized.' Besides the name-changing taking place, I have decided to also add some bells & whistles into the page's new layout scheme. To the right of the blog page, you'll now see a Twitter widget, as well as my other links that appeared immensely on JONNYROOBS.NET's main area ... I've decided to start my web project over by utilizing any economical means and approaches (having free accounts on Photobucket, YouTube, Blogger, etc). Being it that I'm one of the many people struggling to find a job these days, letting go of JONNYROOBS.NET was the right decision to make. Sure, I may have slipped down a notch from getting my name out there in the open on the internet, but I still continue to push forth the same dream - only this time on a smaller scale, as I've indicated on a previous blog entry. So here's to many more brighter days ahead :-) JONNYROOBS is now CENTRALIZED!

Cast actors Paul Walker & Neal McDonough as brothers in a movie

I was watching 'Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li' the other night and I can't help but notice Chun-Li's (played by Kristin Kreuk) antagonist - Neal McDonough - the dude playing 'Bison.' He shares almost the same qualities like that of 'Fast & Furious' actor Paul Walker, except that he's a tad older than him by 7 years. I don't have any 'mancrush' of-the-sort on these actors. I just notice the uncanny resemblance these two have - the blond hair, the steely blue eyes & the smile that women would adore and love. It would be cool having the two casted together as brothers for an upcoming flick, perhaps a high-octane action type or something on the dramatic side (like what we saw out of Jake Gylenhaal & Tobey Maguire playing brothers in the recent film, 'Brothers). Gylenhaal & Maguire also have slight resemblance to each other, in terms of facial features. Here's hoping that McDonough and Walker will get their chance one day.

The 'JONNYROOBS' website reboot just started today!

Hello, everyone. This entry is one of the most important I've ever posted here. Things are going to change on my website project. I'm shutting down my main website hub - www.jonnyroobs.net after 6 years of glory! I thank everyone for their kind support. However, it is NOT the end, but more of a new beginning - on a smaller scale. This blog page you see now will replace 'jonnyroobs.net' and most of its elements will pretty much still be the same (w/ the supplementary links to the right). The links to my YOUTUBE video accounts, as well as my PHOTOBUCKET accounts are going to be there (that's if they're not appearing yet, but I'll work on 'em in the coming days ahead) .... As this blog page is going to be my 'new' home on the web, I have decided to delete just about 70% of the previous blog entries (in which most of the images uploaded were from 'jonnyroobs.net' file management system) ... For now, it's time to start cleaning house here and you'll see the changes as they go. Till next time.

I'm a VICTIM of the ECONOMY'S PROBLEMS.

I know I'm not alone as a patriotic, hard-working American facing the latest crisis regarding the unstable, weak economy in this nation (as well as the world, included). I know millions out there are going through the rough because of the lack of work opportunities available. And to tell you the truth, it sucks - BIG TIME! I'd never imagine myself being in such a situation - but it's happening to me. I'm losing money as my funds are depleting right before my very eyes. My unemployment benefits money is still pending because of certain descrepancies that needed to be checked with my employer(s) from 2009. That means I won't get it for a while - and the fact that I'm not getting it, is already mounting so much frustration. I wonder how long is this waiting gonna happen. I already expressed my feelings humbly to the workforce customer service rep in Virginia and she can empathize what I'm facing, especially with unpaid bills that still need to be taken care of ... Let's flashback. It wasn't supposed to be this way when I returned to the state last year in February of 2009 (from Orlando). Businesses have died down. Shops and stores have closed. Seemed lifeless in pockets of the area itself. But through it all, I tried to press forward. Then it struck me. Boing!!! I didn't realize that finding a job, or even long-term assignments w/ temp/placement agencies would be forever difficult (because of the lack of clients they now have). However, there was an exception and I had an assignment for as good as 3 months tops. That kept me going until the client (that the agency worked with) unexpectedly took me out. I knew right then and there that I'll be facing the dreaded, long haul. It's been well over a month now and barely anything surface in regards to opportunities ... Right now, I'm doing all I can to de-stress myself from being a victim of the economy's sadden state. I hope that my benefit money will come up at the end of this month and that the descrepancy/issue involved will be taken care of imminently. I am also trying to have a spark of hope in applying for anything and everything really like a grocery clerk, a security officer, a car salesman - heck, I can just go for some made-up job that Conan O'Brien mentioned as a "Body Chalk Outliner" for the crime scene. Already at the age of 35, I'm still struggling to find that path towards success while many have done so in their younger years and living the life now. I may have gotten far with so many areas and succeeded, but this 'career' thing has been a curse for me. And now, it's going to get even more difficult if the economy will continue the direction is going ... I love my country so much, but I think the lawmakers in our nation gotta look out for us - the common people - the ones that voted for them, that got them on their seats in the first place. The same for the big businesses and sports athletes, too, in which we give 'em the results they expect seeking profits from our own deep pockets. I wish for all of us who are victims to emerge strong from this turbulent economic period. No one wants this. We don't want this. We just want the America that many in our generations have loved for so long. And for this nation's government giving us the ode of endless, limitless opportunities, it would definitely put a satisfying smile to all of us. That'll surely redefine the American dream back on the forefront.

Need to get back in shape for 2010!

Already it's been a month and a half of inactivity. Last time I played basketball was around October right before the cold weather started creeping its way through the area. The bad sign is starting to show on my body. What was once leaner is about to become chunky and flab. The waist is bad, so are my arms. It's showing the true signs of my age - and I need to get back into the habit in exercising again. So what was the holdup of getting in shape one may ask? It turns out that I've been battling a cold that has lasted nearly a month, as well as working on a 3-month desk assignment in which I was mainly sitting down on my seat doing data-entry work. The assignment itself is already done leaving myself jobless for the time being. There's the good side and bad side to this. I won't be able to generate money at this time, however exercising and getting back in shape would be the ideal placebo to restore my confidence. It's 2010 and this coming week - I'll put health back on the forefront, even if it'll be through the cold weather. I am determined to get this off the ground.

The Forgotten, Aging "Waterside" in Downtown Norfolk

It's been a while since I've went around my old stomping grounds of downtown Norfolk (I've left for Orlando a few years back). Things have changed quite a bit and I was getting a treat to some of the renovations that the city is currently going through. I walked around and about extensively with my friend/Norfolk resident, Trentonn. There were a couple of highlights to point out such as the big makeover done to Town Point Park (located between Nauticus and Waterside, respectively), the Rotunda (a cylinder-shaped apartment condo building complex), and the crop of building projects that are ongoing within the city itself. Transportation has also been given a plus. In 2010, the rail transit project known as "The Tide" is set to make its debut that'll give commuters the chance to go from downtown Norfolk to the Norfolk/Virginia Beach border in a matter of minutes.

One thing I've found very disappointing and I noted this to Trentonn - was the aging, forgotten festival marketplace known as the Waterside.

It was a wonderful sight those many years ago. Me and my childhood friend Danny were even part of its opening festivities back in June 1st, 1983 as we were students walking along the streets being part of the parade donning our Waterside sailor hats. Waterside was a marvel. She was a beauty! She was noticed! Stores and restaurants there boomed in with business. The view was perfect as it settled nearby the Elizabeth River. It was even harboring in visitors during city festivals (Harborfest, OpSail2000, Afram Fest, etc.) as well as those touring the city itself on any given day.

And now it's the present. Waterside now paints a bleak and uncertain future. It's a relic of the past and is just a sad reminder that we've all moved on from it. (Read THIS March 2008 Va. Pilot article as well, for some in-depth info regarding the aging Waterside).

Most of the public are now rampant in the MacArthur Center, a 3-story shopping mall located just a few blocks from Waterside. MacArthur Center has everything what a consumer wants - shops and restaurants, galore! They also have the added convenience in having a parking garage annexed w/ the mall itself.

While this is going on, Waterside suffers big time!

Gone are many of its shoppers and restaurant/bar patrons, although there were some decent extended renovations done to the food court area. A few years back when I was a resident, it wasn't that bad. It had some kind of 'aura' to it in the evening because of the nightclubs that catered towards young adults. Fast forward to a few years later now: a couple of closed stores, restaurants and nightclubs/bars (notably Bar Norfolk & Have A Nice Day Cafe) - and even the sad songs that around the complex - now gives the Waterside that serene, somber atmosphere. Some restaurants still remain such as Joe's Crab Shack and Hooters and a few small stores are still open for business, but those places alone cannot harbor in more visitors to shop and dine like years ago.

In an addentum to the previous paragraph, Bar Norfolk was shut out of business by the city government a few months ago because of allegations in providing alcoholic drinks to minors. There was also mention of some violence going on, as well. Trentonn and I roamed around the hallway that housed both Bar Norfolk and Have A Nice Day Cafe. It was depressing. All you see that's left are several-upon-several pictures of scantily-clad bikini/thong/tight shirt wearing beauties and the patrons that had a good time with them. That was an era I've never went through when I was a then-Norfolk resident. I had always ignored Bar Norfolk and Have A Nice Day Cafe nightclub scene altogether. We continued walking and the depressing music that was playing in Waterside just got it really worse.

So what can the city do in the future for Waterside's market repositioning? I'm not sure, but here's my opinion along w/ Trentonn's: junk it. That is the ONLY way to be given rebirth. It needs to be tailor-made for this particular era. We have become more of a sophisticated, high-demanding, and technology-driven society. And we want something better, for sure! That is what Waterside needs to do. It needs to value those for it to be given new life. Change the structure itself from the ground up making it futuristic and fun for residents and visitors alike! Waterside should also be 3 stories, as well. If downtown Norfolk can recycle itself in a whole new way, I'm sure they will do the same for Waterside in the future.

Waterside hangs on by a thread and who's to say what future it'll have.

(BLOGGER'S NOTE: I plan to film some video footages inside Waterside for viewers to see the place as it is now. And don't expect anything great - yet.)

Usher & Justin Timberlake could be the next MJ, BUT.....

As the King of Pop is gone from the music scene now, we all look forward to the next heirs to the pop world that MJ had created years and years ago. But who could possibly fill it? I got two names for you - Usher and Justin Timberlake. Each possesses the awesome dancing skills and vocal talent (with Justin usually doing the higher notes similar to MJ's). However, with what they can do - that's all we're possibly going to get from them and even the artists out there trying to get a dose of what MJ left behind. This is when the BUT will come in. I don't think they'll go up a notch in caring for the world, the children. MJ's message is lost, unfortunately.In this day and age, 'sex' and perversive lyrics sell. That's all we're teaching the next generation - and that's sad. MJ was a musical genius that excelled in all boundaries of music from knowing how a song should be heard to writing lyrics to a song that has so much meaning - so much it can touch the world, the human being, etc. ... Now, can Usher, Justin Timberlake, Ne-Yo and all these MJ would-be's reflect the same legacy that he left behind. I don't think so.

Surge Protector, a worthy investment...

A few months ago, power voltage suddenly skyrocketed as high as 240 volts in the home. Shrills and beeps would be heard everywhere. Electronic appliances/devices would either be damaged being plugged to the outlet directly - or - safe, thanks in part to the surge protector. Surge protectors really help as they are on the frontlines against unsafe voltage. They take most of the brunt and consequently end up as a loss as these surge protectors fulfill their goal and that is to protect your electronics appliances from the damage done. On the bright side, it's better to get another surge protector (at a decent price) rather than buying very expensive electronic products all over again (unless you got a warranty or something of the equivalent to cover the loss). Take it from me. I've personally faced this dilemma with my family here in the home. Invest in surge protectors. Put 'em in every room or every area in which the electronic appliances are commonly used. You won't be sorry.

Setting the bar/standards as a 35 year old...

Just a few days ago (9/30th to be exact), it was my birthday. I have now surpassed 35 years of my life. Time is passing by fast and so is age. And then there are always things that come to mind being that age. Looking back, I am able to figure out some of the elements in my life that still need major improvement. So I've decided to set the bar and standards in trying to get the high quality of my life to happen. That means some major cleaning up to do in certain areas. The most important ones revolve around my spiritual walk with God (in which I'm currently in a cell group with the fellas from Wave Church), my career goals that I have yet to accomplish (after years of schooling/courses, temp jobs, average jobs, etc. - I was thinking more on the lines of real estate or sales), and setting forth my own personal goals in life (having a relationship w/ someone special making a family together, getting our first home, family vacations, traveling, etc.). These are hard to come by if I do not take the following seriously ..... Sometimes with these things come sacrifices/cutbacks on the fun times and limiting/ridding of any distractions around me. Just a few weeks ago, I've decided to delete a couple of people from MySpace and Facebook. Two have went 'anti' against me on my decision but I think it's better that way. There is absolutely no room for people who act crude or those that have forgotten me already. And then there are others that simply can't take care of themselves regarding their goals in life. I don't want their problems to be mine's. I must move on and so must they - until God puts us all back into the fold at some point in time for some spectacular reunion filled with jubilation .... I'm very sensitive to a lot of areas these days and that's what's great about being the 35 year old I am. I deal with every issue conforming to the 'microwave society' as we are today, but there is still that 'kid-in-me' who just wants to smile and appreciate what each day has to offer .... The easy part was saying it with this blog. So now comes the most difficult part: making all of this come true.

Flood in the Philippines

I was completely unaware that this had happened to the Philippines. Seldom do I watch the news, but some of my filipino friends was discussing this unfortunate event to me that originated from Typhoon Ondoy ... It is sad to see many of the countrymen go through the floodings doing everything they can to survive, as well as sacrifice themselves for the sake of their loved ones that are clinging onto life by being on top of the roof. The flood itself is deep - very deep, as high as 2 stories or more, of a building ....... It is a complete mess. Lots of cars were stackpiled on top of each other. Many homes were lost and belongings were completely submerged underwater. Caskets from flooded cemetaries started to surface carrying carcasses of the dead and even some of their body parts floating on water ... The people can only hope that the Philippine government (under President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) will do all they can in their power to help .... My relatives have also faced the floodings, as well. My uncle's home was flooded up to the thighs (according to my cousin Donna) and that my mom's vacation home where my aunt, her daughter & my grandma are residing at - is spared, as it sits slightly high on an elevated hill. From what I heard by my grandma and relatives there, it is THE ONLY home that wasn't damaged from the floods. This flood has really hit closest to home as my relatives face the floodings head-on ........ The recovery effort will take patience, time, and God's blessing. They will be okay :-) Filipinos always have that spirit to keep moving forward.

Where have all our values gone on television?

I occasionally watch classic TV sitcoms, dramas and cartoons from the 1970s, 1980s and (some of) the 1990s - and we (the viewers) always got the 'ending' right. There is always something to learn from through the characters in an episode. We learned how to respect and love one another. We learned to right a wrong. We learned that family values and morals were highly important ... Fast forward to TV now. Just about everything seen is considered 'trash' by my standards. It's sad. The same goes with the music, too. No meaning in that either. I don't see anything that a kid can learn from in this day and age. Seems that my generation type (Generation X) doesn't incorporate any of what was learned long ago when we were kids in our heydays ... Being it that we're in a microwave society, it seems that we can never look back to the fundamentals and basics that held our country strong from generation to generation. We need to take a step slowly rather than go fast or else the next set of generations will start going array on us as we become older and older. Just imagine how worse we can get. Sad, sad, sad. We have to set the standards of what television was years ago and teach the next generations what's important rather than nonsense, crude humor that overfills the TV tube daily.

The Downfall of my friend Jimmy

It's sad. It's true. And I can't do much to help Jimmy if I could. He's been given the advice from his closest peers (me included) and the results don't translate to success at all because he doesn't take the initiative to help himself. He's been hit left and right with problems - and it seems like he just doesn't to care. Instead of trying to find a job, he just kills time by hanging out with us, guys. Even worst, I don't think I feel much like a friend to him. The same for the others who try their best, too. For Jimmy not to listen to us (and trusting strangers instead), he doesn't value the support that we offer to him. We try to boost him with all the encouragement and motivation he needs ... So here's more details. It's been years and he's still crushed in debt. He was kicked out of sea job a few years back because of that, in addition to writing bad checks to someone. His Mitsubishi Eclipse was repossessed and all he has now is a clunker - a beat-up Ford Windstar - that's on it's last run and a definite road hazard. So he's riding a $25 bike has from the flea market. He has lost a lot of weight appearing really skinny because he doesn't have enough money to buy a lot of food like he used to. In addition, he goes to the bloodbank every week to give blood and get some extra money out of it. All of this and the man's still smiling and joking ... My mom wants for me to help Jimmy out by giving him some of our food. But I know this isn't enough. I wish Jimmy can just let me help him if he's willing to listen good with open ears. Jimmy is facing a downfall as we speak and all that me and the others could do is watch. It's tough to see someone going through this painful phase right now as he less likely cares about himself.

Accepting being old

I've got one more month until I turn 35 years old. But it seems that my age now has gotten the best of me. My youthfulness has been gone a few years back. I still managed to keep looking young. But not this time around. I'm starting to appear what I really should be. I look at the mirror very closely and I see a few lines to the corners of my eye, yet I still don't have lines on my forehead. I do have a few black spots, especially near my eyelids, that is appearing on my face and its a sight I really don't like. And yes, when it comes to the most visible sign of aging, it DEFINITELY shows with either the thinning/receding hairline OR how about this one: flecks of white hair. That's what I have right now and I'm about to look like the filipino version of Brett Favre if I plan on growing out the stubbles on my goatee and beard. I hope that I'll become more wiser beyond my years before my looks will pretty much be evident with my age .... I can say, I'm gonna be a good looking old man, for sure! I accept being old. It's finally time to embrace aging with open arms.

The best parts to a person's average day

Hmm, ever wondered what the best parts to a person's average day are? Based on my many 'feel-good' observations in people through various activities happening on certain days of the week, here's what I came up with:

- A restroom break (ahhhhh, relief!)
- A 15 min work and/or lunch break looking at something in particular while outdoors
- A 15 min work and/or lunch breaksocializing with other co-workers who are on the same break time like you are
- A 15 min work and/or lunch break by yourself/ or at home - talking or texting on your cell phone to someone you love and hold dearest to your heart. If you wanna get techy enough, add websurfing on the Blackberry or iPhones..(lol)
- For the smokers, the smoke break during the first/last part of lunch break or 15 min. work break. Smokers get to also socialize with others holding the cig or non-smokers who want to socialize with them
- A 30 minute lunch eating quietly by yourself
- Spending a couple of minutes listening to your iPod or MP3 player before heading to work or during breaktime
- Clocking out of work (ahhhhh, work is finally over!) Even better if it's a Friday - just about everyone always looks forward to the weekend
- Communing with God, in prayer
- Reading a book of your choice
- Jogging in the morning as the first goal to start the day. Jogging in the early evening as one of the last goals to end the day
- Walk exercises around the complex with fellow co-workers during 30 min/15 min breaks.
- Driving on the road to your destination and pumping up the stereo's volume in your car. Even more better if you have XM Satellite Radio, Sirius, or your iPod/Mp3 player hooked up. While you master the road, you can master your music choices :)
- Reading a worthy e-mail message, especially from co-workers or a family/friend
- Reading the Bible for inspiration
- Going clubbing (Thursday, Fridays, weekends)
- Going shopping to buy fashion, technology, etc. (weekends)
- Gathering up with friends/family members on outings (evenings, weekends)
- Singing praise songs in church (weekends)
- Leaving periodic updates on Twitter
- Signing onto Facebook, pimpin' out your profile, and chatting with friends/family
- Taking digital snapshots of yourself or others with you, even objects wherever you go
- Going to the beach to get yourself some splash & sun (weekends)
- Watching the sun go down while you sit on a bench
- Watching sports on TV (especially for the guys during the evenings, weekends)
- Storytelling and reminiscing to someone about the good ol' days (i.e. the 80s era)
- Instant messaging while at work or at home
- Watching the latest movies in the theater, live sporting events, live concerts (in the evenings, weekends)
- Munching on food/snacks while watching Blu-Ray DVD movies and live sporting events on the greatest high quality reception on your Plasma/LCD/LED flat-screen TV & Hi-Fi stereo surround quality sound (evenings, weekends)
- Blogging a topic (like what I'm doing right now)
- Having positive thoughts that you'll win before paying for a lottery ticket
- Walking/Rollerblading/Skateboarding/Bicycling at the public rec parks (late afternoons, weekends)
- Trying something new in life (i.e. hot-air balloon rides, skydiving, roller coaster rides, water jet skiing, rock climbing, snorkeling, etc.) (vacation time, weekends)
- Going to a well-known theme park (i.e. Seaworld, DisneyWorld, Universal Studios, Six Flags, Busch Gardens, Kings Dominion, etc.) (vacation time, weekends)
- Going on a getaway cruise or a flight to somewhere far away (vacation time, weekends)
- Going out with your significant other to anywhere both of you choose
- Birdwatching using binoculars to identify the bird
- Working out in the gym consistently to improve your body work
- Going out to eat and join the social norm/or even surf the internet at Starbucks or Panera Bread




Maybe you can add some to the list if I'm missing something. But wow, that is a huge sample of everything I can think of!

I'm not the same guy in Virginia that everyone remembers...

Gone are the days I mingled interactively in-person to the community. I was everywhere left and right making visits to see friends. Now, I'm doing all of this virtually and controlling the flow of my conversations mostly with a group of close friends & former coworkers from both the Orlando and Virginia Beach/Norfolk area via Facebook and MySpace... Gone are the days I used to film a whole lot of home video movies with my Hi-8 mm camcorder in which I was trying to capture different community-related events that also featured my friends there. Afterwards, I would unleash the video footages on my official website OR I would make a small DVD for my friends. Now, I film footages of my family members/ friends during small gatherings and/or small vacations using the FLIP digital camcorder. Once that is complete, I upload most of them to YouTube for all the world to see. Rather than to put too much emphasis on production and video conversion (me and my technical terms...lol), I thought its best to just stream all-out on the internet instead. So yeah, what was once so big with hype has turned into a personal, miniscule film project these days. I still deliver, however, as people get the chance to be introduced to my world through these small video footages from my FLIP...Gone are the days I used to involve myself heavily with the Filipino-American community of Hampton Roads. That was a chapter of my life in which I learned so much about being a 'filipino' but nowadays, I don't plan on going back to volunteering with them anytime soon. I would rather carry on putting as much time to develop and craft my personal/professional goals. I also want to get ready to start a family one day. The Fil-Am community here will certainly thrive in bigger things for sure and it can move on without my involvement. To this very day since my comeback to VA, I have not attended a single Fil-am event. The only thing closest to that would be attending church ... Gone are the days I have foresaken my brother. I am now one with him, as brothers, as the best of friends. I will now put family-first among everybody that comes in the way in my life. Now, he's among the most important ... Gone are my ways of how I used to live my life before I moved to Orlando. Now, I've come back 'a new man' and realizing that there are more challenges ahead in the times to come ... Gone are my ways in the public eye being noticed here and there. Now, I opt for privacy and staying away from the limelight for the most part, but being close and present to the ones that I love ... Gone are the last 2 ex-girlfriends that have caused me burden the last few years making me so depressed. I had no motivation. I felt like it was the end. I was not happy. Now, I'm filled with a lot of love everywhere including a wonderful Christian group I've come to know in Central Florida, having a wonderful girlfriend that states away, and coming back to a family that is happy to have their loved one home. And gone are the days I've neglected my health being so fat and chunky. I'm actively exercising these days and loving it maintaining my lean shape that I've had in Orlando.......I'm not the same guy in Virginia that everyone remembers.

Them dreams again....but it's not EPIC.

Yeah, I'm here again posting yet another entry during my time at home on a very cloudy day. The situation remains pretty much the same with no recent events that's worthy to mention about. I've been waiting for something to happen, but to no avail so far. However, this may trigger why I have so many dreams going on. There were the big EPIC dreams I've mentioned before. But this one's a bit on the smaller scale since they only last like 30 minutes.

The first one almost seemed like I was in a scene from the movie, "Snakes On The Plane" starring Sam Jackson. Only thing was: I wasn't in a jet plane, but my girlfriend's room where she bunks in. She was calling me on the cell phone for me to look for an important document in her memo book. Turns out that the book was gone - and where she told me to look on the ground beside her bed, there was something quite unexpected: a big giant snake. I can tell he swallowed the book because of the small ripped shreds of pages beside him. And one of the pet cats there was roaming around randomly, too. She was taken by surprise being put into the serpent's mouth. I was agaped in shock. The cat still tried to fight on trying desperately to escape but stopped in a few minutes. Then out of nowhere stood the Machete knife that has been in possession of my brothers. It stood there shining and I had to be brave facing the snake myself. As it moved left and right, I went the opposite direction and later chopped half of its body off from behind. Blood was gushing and the cat barely came out. It looked like it was suffocated and dying. So I rushed to the vet and the prognosis of the feline was okay - good enough to live. And that was the end of that.

Second was about hanging with Orlando Magic superstar Dwight Howard. For some reasons, he and his 'homeboys' (the ones with him on the pics and internet) visited the ballroom for a fundraising event. He said that he's willing to put in some time to help out. He got rid of his athletic wear as he disappeared for a while. Then he was straight out pimpin' decked out in a dressed suit sporting his trademark smile. He was dancing as he was being led in front of the crowd. And then I asked him if he could do that one more time so I can film him through my FLIP cam. He looked at me and smirked. Turning around all of a sudden, he laughed and said, "Of course, let's do this!" So I took the cam and filmed him doing his dance moves and mingling with the crowd. Afterwards, we had some Q&A session and I was still filming him. In the end, I came home happy with some autographed DH items...Too bad, this was only a dream as my girlfriend texted me this morning, "I wish u r here" and the indication beeped to my cell phone. Now that's something real - and I love her so much.

And there you have it. Another series of my dreams on a smaller scale. Wow, if there's so much going on in my head, I guess that's why there's so much creativity and inventiveness in my head during my sleeping state.

'Some' aren't satisfied where they live....

I've heard some insight coming from some people that reside (or have resided previously) in New York, Virginia, and Florida. They are not happy where they are living right now (for some of these individuals, a new state that they've moved to). Some of them say that they'd prefer to be living somewhere else in the U.S. It just comes to show that living in certain parts of the U.S. isn't as good as we have envisioned. Really, where is the best place in the U.S. that these people can go and lead a productive, healthy, satisfying lifestyle? Could it be the city for people living in the rural area? Could it be the rural area or a small town for people living in the city? Or (the wild card) - someplace other than the U.S., maybe? What is your preference?

Yes, more dreams - and an epic dream flashback!

I've had more dreams last night and it was more sad compared to the other ones. Both dream sequences had to do with death. However, it's not related to the people that are closest in my life at this present point in time.

One centered on an english inventor. He helped invent a multimedia-related product that was introduced to the world from his home in the UK to the pacifics in California. And for some reason, I ended up in that state along with some other filipinos. The group I was with said that I was working with them on a short-term basis. Funny, too, is that they had the newest vinyl LP of Michael Jackson's 'Thriller.' Then I looked from far away. It was a big city near the ocean. Since I never went to California, I didn't know what place was this. However, news had spread of the inventor's death and everyone were saddened. I just forgot what he invented though. My mind wasn't really tuned in to what he made, but it made a major difference in the world.

Then, the next dream was more serene and quite painful. It was about one of my real-life friends from Orlando. She was a part of the Christian group I was in, till she had to move back home to family. In this sequence, she only had a few months to live because of a severe illness not even the innovations of medical technology can stop it. So my family and I have decided to spend a few days with her joining up with her family who were feeling at a loss for words as to what was happening with her. We made each day special for her until she passed away. Having to make happy moments with her was genuine and we were glad to be there for her right to the very end. There was never a sign of weakness in her, only smiles and giggles. But when it was her time to go to God that day, we all accepted it unconditionally. We know now that she's smiling up there. For us, it was hard to handle. All we can do is keep thinking of how she was during her last days.

Seems like my mind is full of imagination the last couple of days. There must be so much going on in my life that its making me come up with so many dreams.

I must tell you that I haven't forgotten this one epic dream that happened two months ago during my sleep.

It was a good day at first in my old neighborhood. I spent it with my family who were living in the old house again. I'm not exactly sure as to why they are in there, but I hope it's for a good reason. We had a good time socializing and catching up with things happening in our lives. Then dark clouds started to hover everywhere. These clouds were unusual because I've never seen anything this dark before. So I went into my Civic and left. As I drove into the backways of the old neighborhood, a mini-tornado was forming on one side of the street - and then another appeared several blocks away. Winds started to pick up. Small debris started to be thrown here and there. I turned right and left and so forth to avoid. Then, it started to get even worse. To the right - a couple of blocks down - another mini-tornado came into formation. I was wondering out of all the places that these tornadoes could it, it's all happening right here in my neighborhood. I finally found a way to elude them. I took Denver Avenue which didn't had any in sight. Thus, it led me to 7-Eleven, in which workers were boarding up the windows with plywood. I parked my car there and they told me to hurry. Once I was inside, there were customers having the look of fear on their faces and some of their kids seem to have no worries at all playing with their dolls and action figures. We stayed as far back as we can because the tornadoes can put devastating impact on the store itself. A customer had his cell phone on and he got update from a neighbor that the tornadoes have formed into one massive, colossal whirlwind. As we can hear the roar of the winds pushing their way through, we kept ourselves patient by talking to one another about our lives while others slept on the floor as a means of trying to ride out the storm. The children no longer were allowed to play. Parents have put themselves on the front line for them acting as shields as they lay down. As for me, I sat on the floor looking at everyone who were feeling distraught and worried. They knew that they were going to face the struggles about to lose everything they have, except their lives, once the storm has come to pass. And then...utter silence. It was over. We came outside and it was sunny again. Our cars on the parking lot were spared, but 70% of the neighborhood is gone. It looked like a disaster area. I'm not even sure if any one had survived. But I saw from afar that my family's street was spared. Our home was fine. However, the streets behind it, didn't. It was a terrible scene. But hope started to linger as survivors surfaced from their suddenly broken-down homes. With the sun gazing on them, there is hope. And that was THE END.

I have recorded most of my dreams during the last couple of days on the blogs and I'm glad to have shared them with you. I thought it was fascinating to bring you these series of dream sequences.

Each one is different. Each has a meaning. Each one must have an ending. Each has its own weirdness to it. Each is inventive on its own. And it's all coming from my mind.

Special thanks to my friend Ray for reading my latest blogs. I really appreciated it.

Two New Dreams - The Previous Dream - And their endings!

The other night, I had forgotten to blog about two other dreams.


One dream sequence had two thugs crashing their pimped-out Chevy Caprice into my old home in which they tried to take as much belongings from me and the family. We were taken hostage. And that was the end - or was it? Let me tell you shortly about the surprise ending later that appeared the next night.

The other one was centered in the rural area. There were two guys in the home who said they were willing to take care of my car. One guy looked like a young John Elway with his forever smiling trademark and the other looked like that singer from Hawaii - Jack Johnson. They don't look like guys to be trusted, believe me. Even singing legend Little Richard came to their home demanding for royalties and/or song rights from them. He wasn't pleased in how they treated him - and man, he looked so real, because I was right beside him when this was going on. They used his song "Tutti Fruitti" to get what the money they want out of the local townspeople in an event. Then, Little Richard left in frustration walking away. And then it was my turn. They insisted on buying parts for my Civic to take care of any damages done to it already. And I was wondering - what have I done lately to it that can cause that to happen? I figured it was them. So I looked from afar and I saw one of them driving my Civic, like crazy. The other was cheering 'woohoo' or something equivalent to that. I'm like, is this the real-life version 'Dukes of Hazzard?' My car appeared beaten and not even washed. The bumper had a few damages and the hubcaps were missing. So there had to be an ending on this. It followed on to the next night, as well.

Okay, it's the next night. My mind took me back to these dream sequences. But first I would like to ask anyone if they ever went back to complete their dreams. It's probably unheard of for many, but it happened to me. I finished these.

So what were the endings?

Regarding the thugs that were holding me and the family hostage at our old home, they were killed instantly by my big brother who did a sneak attack strategy to rid of the two. My bro used his gun as the weapon of choice to save our lives. Not having him around in the previous chapter of this dream seemed to be no hope in sight. But there he was -defending the family in a crisis.

As for the other dream's ending, I went after the guys using one of their badly beaten-up vehicles. I parked far away and went to the shop they were in. One had the keys. The other was talking to a pretty female. And while the John Elway lookalike guy swayed his attention to the female, as well, I came for the attack. I went straight to his right arm and the key was on the ground. I ran quickly into the Civic and sped off never coming back to that place again. Although my car was beaten up on the outside, she still sounded like new in the inside.

And there was one dream I really had to complete - and it happened. I had the time to finish it off. Remember the one that the revelation of my best friend dying tragically in that classic high-rise tower? YES, that one! Turns out there was the ending it deserved. Here's the conclusion:

It turns out that my best friend Ray wasn't dead as I once thought. The ghost I was talking with said he was, but I didn't believe it. Turns out I grabbed her and demanded where he was taken. She had that demonized look from the exorcist movie, but that didn't scare me one bit. When I seem to grab her by the throat, she told me to enter through the walls as that was the portal leading to another dimension. I went through - and there he was held captive in a cell. He was stuck between worlds and only given a certain time to enter the tower because he was held prisoner by the dead and its ruler. But he was never dead all along. He didn't had the look like the others. They all had the grim reminders of what happened to them before their untimely demise. Remember the lady with a cloth or a belt around her neck OR the asian guy with a mangled, bloody face? Ray didn't had the looks they had. Of all the ghosts, he appeared normal and there were no signs of foul play involved regarding his 'supposed' death. Turns out that I spoke to the leader of the dead and asked for him to release my good friend Ray. He laughed and said that I must go back in time to do as many good deeds as I can to the tenants who inhabited the tower several years ago. He said I must change things. And so I did. I was teleported back and it was no problem. Whoever I bumped into, I did as many random good deeds to them and forming several friendships along the way - including the lady who had the belt/cloth wrapped around her neck - and the asian man who had his face mangled. They appeared normal during this timeframe. I gave both of them a lecture about how good life is and to make their lives better in the best way possible. In the future, the leader was looking on with what I was doing. He shook his head in agreement and realized how far I would go to change things. He was praising me. And it was happening. The apparitions of the lady with the belt/cloth and the mangled-faced asian man started to disappear and fade out. So were the rest. I was making a huge difference in trying to make things better for the tenants that had their lives cursed for all this time. Satisfied, the leader brought me back to the present timeline. He gave me the go-ahead to get Ray from the cell and head back to our rightful dimension. The leader also vowed us to never enter the underworld again. However, in respect, he waved his right arm and wished us well. Ray and I were back. Here we were again in the tower. Lights are no longer dim-lit. The hallway had so much lighting and that it looked better than last time. We exited the tower and looked at it one more time. Ray smiled at me and said, "Thanks for putting yourself on the line for me. You're a real friend, John. I'll never forget that." I smiled back and replied, "That's what real friendships are for." We left separately. He drove his black Corolla. I drove in my green Civic. THE END.

So yeah, there are good endings to terrible dreams. Thankful to have finished 'em off the right way. I just hope they won't be ruined.

A Series of Odd Dreams During My Sleep

There was nothing related to my dreams in real-life (with the exception of some individuals from the past that showed up). However, I would like to share these with you. I better get this off the top of my head before I won't even remember them.

The first one was probably the most longer dream out of the others that followed later. It took place during the evening in a lavishly, expensive high-rise tower that has stood through the test of time in the big city (assuming that it is New York maybe). There were different celebration parties happening at the same time on several floors leading to the top. Of why they were celebrating, it's probably a work-related thing. I was to meet up with my co-workers (these were made up, too) and mingle along with them to the other partygoers. It turns out that I did find them on different parts of the floors, but I neglected to do so. A few noticeable faces from real-life started to appear so I didn't care about what was going on in the party. Instead, I chatted with some of them in the lobby and we were able to get caught up with things recently since me and them only knew each other from the past. And then the party was over. The entertainment crew was hauling all their equipment in a mid-sized truck showing a clown's face in the middle. A few that were left around still socialized even though the rest of the crowd dwindled in numbers as the clock already shows the wee hours of the morning. I've decided to call it a night. I walked downstairs and saw one of my best friends (a best friend in real-life). I asked him how he was doing and he said he was doing fine. Then there was something odd. He faded into darkness. The stairwell was gloomy only dim lit. And as I kept going I saw even worse. There were apparitions walking around staring at me. One lady looked dead as a zombie as if she was hung. I saw something on her neck and it appears to look like a belt or a cloth. Then, a few walks later, there was a man of Asian descent whose face looked bloody and mangled staring right at me. Later, a couple more ghostlike figures came and walked around in ghost-like fashion vanishing into thin air once they go through the walls. The classic style high-rise tower that I was in, had a history of mysterious deaths and many of the past deceased tenants in this place had never left at all. I was still scratching my head why my best friend was in it. A ghostly tenant came up to me and said that he died tragically in this place. I was shocked to hear this and my eyes became big and then my dream...err...nightmare...faded into black. That was over.

Then the second dream was a bit of an adventure and a comedy of sorts. It had actors Jennifer Garner, Ethan Hawke and Ben Stiller with me in this dream. We were looking forward to meeting a particular individual - an Asian lady, that was somehow important for them finding a good deal on a luxury apartment in New York City. In this dream, I foresaw of things to come realizing that we missed out by a few minutes in meeting her at her office. With my own powers-of-sorts, I had to somehow track her down by mind. So me and the gang all ran, but it was up for me to meet her. And so I did. I introduced myself kindly and later, I brought on the others to meet her. From there, the talks went well and we were able to land the good deal on the apartment - not missing out. I was glad to alter history for a good cause.

The third one was weird. I was working at a pet store overnight along with other co-workers (in which some of them were my inventory co-workers in real-life). And there were people shopping like the time never even affected them. Take this as odd, but the supervisor and manager didn't want us to wear nametags at all. We just had a white patch on our shirts with nothing labeled on it. Another weird element here: no bar codes on the product. It's a plain white rectangle instead.

And the last was an 'okay' dream. My mom was helping me find a job in a bank, but it was more than just a bank. Below were medical records in a box located downstairs. I don't even know why they were even there - maybe the job requires these prior to starting a job there. All of the people in the building were filipino. My mom talked with the Human Resources lady as well as the applicant who was at the computer ... And then ....


I woke up. Dreams AND a nightmare are over. It's a Saturday. A sunny Saturday. Time to get things going. But wow. 7 hours of dreaming can lead onto interesting things.

My 'Lola' going blind?

'Lola' (meaning "grandma" in Filipino) mentioned this to me a few months ago during a telephone conversation. She wants to see me before she'll go blind in the times to come. It pains me to hear of the news that this is happening to her. I can only imagine being 'in her shoes' facing this bad news. I hope that there is still time to see her before this may get eventually even worse. My mom is currently working on the effort in trying to find an eye care specialist that is around or closest to the Pangasinan area of the Philippines ... 'Lola' has been blessed for most of her years, especially during her few years stay in the U.S. during the early to late 1990s. She still remains very active for her age (in her early 80s now). She continues to go forth with her passion of gardening vegetables around the home. And her voice hasn't slowed down one bit, although it seems now that her hearing is being affected slightly. I question the 'hearing' part, however. Sometimes phone calls to the Philippines do have audio problems on top of the many failed attempts we try to reach our loved ones there. I'm sure many of us filipinos can relate to that part .... I hope that I will be given an opportunity in the near-future to visit my relatives there, especially 'Lola.' Right now, I'm working on my plan in trying to find a lucrative career, good enough to make me earn a decent income - and spend a small portion of that for a 3-week trip to the Philippines. Whatever consequences she is going to face, 'Lola' will know that I am around when I am finally there by way of my voice and when I'll touch her hand, or even give her a warm hug:)

Taking bold steps with the blogs ... a new direction.

Hello everyone. Yes it is me. I'm back at the blog bandwagon once again. I would like to make this announcement and let all of you know that I will be taking bold steps with the blogs. That means that I will be writing more personal blogs that many of you all have come to appreciate and love for the last few years. I am going to curb down slightly on the movie reviews and national headlines that have pretty much congested my page for a very long time now, especially as of recent. So stay tuned and get ready for the awesome restart to JONNYROOBS CENTRAL.

Many thanks to those who have kept in touch with me on Facebook. I really appreciate everyone's company so far. And yes, I also have Twitter. Check it out, as well.

So yeah, look forward to the new changes to the entries posted on JONNYROOBS CENTRAL.

"ARE WE STARTING TO LOSE OURSELVES IN THIS DAY AND AGE?"

Let's take a close look at what's happening around us right now, as seen in different perspectives and areas. And it's not getting any better ...

Stock investments/ mutual funds in peril due to the inconsistent performance at the stock market ... Massive company layoffs and cutbacks ... Sudden corporate takeovers and mergers/buyouts ... Quarterly profits & losses ultimately deciding the fate of a business ... Companies interested in big bucks than retaining loyal, longtime workers ... Job outsourcing by companies (for lower job labor costs) ... Grocery prices increasing ... Soaring gas prices at the gas pumps ... Divorce rates climbing high ... Parents working more hours as they spend less time for their children ... Children becoming more obese and isolated relying on video games and the computer as their main activity (and spending less interactive family time) ... Teens are now more sexually active than ever before ... Pornography is a booming business on the internet ... Sex and violence are shown more often on the TV tube ... More seniors still work to get more money than retire, in order to survive ... Homes for residents are lost to foreclosures ... Our young generation continuing to die in a war that has yet no solution and no reason (as the head terrorist mastermind still looms at large) ... Greedy overpaid/ overhyped athletes that don't produce their stats (as sports becomes now more of a business than tradition) ... Celebrities 'on-the-edge', conceited and crazy wasting their life away... Working middle class suffering a whole lot more as the rich becomes more richer ... Earth is in big danger by man's actions as global warming is more evident than ever ...

From what I've mentioned, it's really getting worse and it seems likely that this trend will continue furthermore - with no end in sight. We're becoming our own victims falling prey to the factors mentioned. If I could decipher what's going on with everything, I came up with this:

MAN is motivated by POWER and GREED

In this present society we now live in, it seems that we're starting to lose ourselves and the simple pleasures/ fundamentals of life that our generations before had once embraced to keep going forward with their lives.

We must not lose hope. We must rely on our faith and God through all of this. We know He gives comfort especially in times of doubts and struggle. In our lives, He can give us only what we can really handle - and I'm a firm believer in that. God is the balance to our lives and that He will always be there for the long run despite all of the changes happening. Just keeping hanging on, everyone - and don't lose yourselves to the world.

RE-POST: "Remembering 9/11"

A day that'll forever live with us through history. We remember the fallen and the hope of a nation that faced tragedy. We are healing day by day ...

It is now 7 years later ...

A lesson learned...

Sometimes we wish to have a superpower that can change the world, ultimately bringing about a huge difference to one's life or many more in your important circle. Perhaps, even people that you've just gotten to know recently. And when you keep going forth with the extra mileage to show more faith & support, it has the potential to have risky consequences in the process. We would love to paint a good picture to show the finer things and simple pleasures in life with what we can do to shape one's life on a positive scale, but sometimes that's hard to do. Not every one around will fully appreciate and accept what one does for another. Being 'good', we can only do but so much. Worst case scenario is a friendship being misintepreted and misjudged out of nowhere by people (in a third-party that don't even know the other person) who do not know its roots/origins based between two individuals. And it's all blown out of proportions making a big deal out of nothing. Some in this category can also base an assumption that it's 'romanticism' based on opposite gender, but that's not my intentions or plan at all to begin with. The best thing really is to be openly frank and honest with that person than to hear from other people regarding the situation at-hand (when a problem exists) ... My goal, my aim is to create opportunties for real friendships and to show my banner of unconditional support wherever I am. No frills. No gimmicks here. More importantly, is to show the realism of what a friend should be - even in this imperfect world we live in. My faithful friends (whether it's here in FL or those in VA - even my EXs in past relationships) know that and have witnessed that - out of what I can do ... I do have to say that sometimes a setback like this can help improve one's performance for the better in the future having more responsibility on their given superpower and when to appropriately use it, instead of overdoing it so often. I take the blame if I've went too far for that friend being there so many times. It may be hard to accept at first, but it takes an honest man out of myself to admit it ... I'm glad that God provided the 'every day' so I can start from scratch, perhaps even picking up the pieces and moving on boldly without complaints, criticism and the polluted noise out there. It's better than having to wallow everything in self-pity. It's also a blessing to know that sometimes a lesson like this can build a whole lot more strength for a person of good character, such as myself ... Remember, it's not the end of the world. We can continue to immerse ourselves to be that superhero to everyone's lives (the ones that remain so faithful to us from the beginning and for those that have yet to bear witness to your powers). Just like 'Spider-Man' and 'Superman' in the comics world, they faced criticism out there for what they do with their innate abilities - yet they continue to shine by being good and persevering with it. We must do the same and show how versatile we are, even during doubtful times.

"PEOPLE COME INTO YOUR LIFE"

NOTE: I didn't personally write this, but I can really understand and relate to what this is all about - because it seems so true ... My friend Raymond recently posted this into his blog section on his MySpace profile. Give it a read while you can.

People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person. When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on. Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season. LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a s olid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life.It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant. Thank you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or whether you are a lifetime.

"I AM FILIPINO" (my remixed version)

I may not speak or know too much tagalog, but I AM FILIPINO ... To others, my looks and features alone may pass for someone else from another background or culture, but I AM FILIPINO ... I may feel more of the typical American because of how I've been raised all my life, but I haven't forgotten that through my blood, my skin - I AM FILIPINO ... While some of my own sport clothes from different nations (like Italia or Brasil), I wear clothes that signify the pinoy pride because I AM FILIPINO ... I may not be fully accepted by my own people as a true filipino, but I gotta say again - I AM FILIPINO ... Hearing the history (from my mother) about my lolo (grandfather) being among the filipino prisoners to the Japanese during the Death March, I am proud of his courage to stand strong with the others mightily to the end - and after hearing that - makes me so proud to say that I AM FILIPINO ... I love all people of different races, different faces and treating them as equals in this country we live in, as I AM FILIPINO ... I help my own people because we are all like family and with that in mind, I AM FILIPINO. As I await my chances of visiting the country one of these days in the near future, I surely will keep this reminder that I AM and ALWAYS will be FILIPINO. Period.

"The Dash"

To ALL my wonderful JONNYROOBS.NET browsers,

I just watched a beautiful and powerful presentation that really touched me and
I wanted to share it with you.

I'm sure you'll enjoy the amazing images
and inspiring message.

Everyone deserves this message of encouragement.

You can check it out HERE.

P.S. Special thanks to one of the sisters in the Christian group for passing this along.

This sickens me.

I park up on one of the spaces at Panera Bread's parking area. I got out of my Honda Civic and carried my laptop bag heading towards the entrance. It's a steaming 89 degrees Fahrenheit past 10AM EDT this morning ... And this sickens me. I hesitated for a moment and I wish I could do something good out of this situation: a customer at Panera has left a small dog behind inside the truck. So inhumane! Only the left window is slightly cracked as the dog is trying to find a quick way out. I can already see signs that it is gasping for air. Imagine how hot it is inside the truck, alone. Probably 10 degrees higher than in the outside, I bet ... Hopefully by the time I finish this entry, the owner would have returned - and that the dog's life is not endangered.

Is music a waste these days - and what's up with that?

Seems like almost every day, every week and every month - a new song comes out from an artist. Then another. And another. It's a continuous process that's never ending. Ever come to listen to the music you downloaded a year or two ago? Is it still in your mind? Maybe. Maybe not. Some people seemed to have given up on their artist after a few years. They would pawn a couple of CDs to a used-music store and reek in a few bucks for gas or a meal. So, in a way, music is like soda - it's wasted. First we seem to thirst for it so bad that we like to play the jams in our cars, laptops, cell phones, and MP3 players. Then it just -- fades away. And you would probably wind up being the only one still listening to it ... What I can encourage the music lovers today to do is just to download all your music collection to a hard-drive device. Make a playlist and decide which songs should appear there. You have the option to drag in and drag out the ones you like and don't like. Sometimes it's also good to mix in the old and the new. That way, it may kick in a little bit of some ol' school / new school flavor at your workplace or at an event with your friends ... Regarding CDs, you may have to limit a bit on that. Did you know that most artists today only release like 1 or 2 songs - and that's it? Seems like they are ripping us off, huh. Go for digital downloads such as iTunes, Napster, or any media downloading software made available on the web. You have the power to choose wisefully than lose a few dollars more on CD material that will seem to be on the brink of extinction ... And what's up with that? The songs today - well - they're a bit more on the wild side than my younger days. Imagine a young kid singing some 'booty slappin' rap beat or a 'I hate you' rock song in a classroom. it is possible these days and it seems we are failing in society to teach 'em what is appropriate and what is not. The media portal is as bigger as ever and that any one (even a kid) can fall prey to it. So I got to encourage the parents out there to step up in showing kids what's right .... Wow, some blog, huh. And I don't mind freeflowing more here in Panera Bread during my day off. It all just comes - from my brain and if I got something - it'll show up right here on JONNYROOBS CENTRAL.

Being the true American ....

Once we see the news or anything from the tube (reality TV shows, sitcoms, etc.), we are aimed to be influenced easily in an instant. And this concept of 'influencing' also goes with judging our own people in this country. Just think of it - there are many of us that yearn for the American dream yet it's sad to see how many of us Americans view each other in such a negative way. The fact of the matter is that we're too blind to see past the colors, the racial barrier, and even the gender/sex line ... During my younger days, I have to say that I was as ignorant as anything saying this and that because I was influenced by the society and the peers I grew up in. But as I have gotten older, I have learned to embrace and appreciate everything that makes this country what it is .... It's a blessing to be in a new place to live in where I see many people of various nationalities, cultures and backgrounds. I have keenly observed that we are in contrast to each other because of where our origins have came from. But that doesn't mean we have to build a barrier to stay away and isolate ourselves. We have to reach out and extend a handshake, even a smile - that can bring a world of a difference. Imagine that. It would be awesome wouldn't it? ... For me, I've been accustomed to the American life for so long in Virginia, but I was stuck mainly with my Filipino friends in the middle of a black & white society. Then I've went on further to know more of my Filipino background after my college years. And now at age 33, I am seeing the world in a bigger and better way. I have traveled to places around the eastern parts of this country whether they were of rural or urban settings. That same time, I also noticed how Americans act differently from one another. From there, I have started to get the sense of the true American feel and the freedoms our country's forefathers have given to the people ... A message to the next generation: let's bridge everyone together in spite of how different we may be from each other. Our country must continue being strong as a united front.

A lesson about men's fashion in GQ...

My car was being serviced for an 80,000 mile maintenance at Tuffy auto service center. There I was sitting in the waiting room. TV was on. News was the usual: filled with bad and outrageous elements (in other words, 'crap,' basically). Hardly any good news, except hearing the fact that the Pope Benedict XVI has arrived for his first visit to the U.S. So that was cool ... Then I saw stacks of GQ magazines on the table. I grabbed one with Eric Bana on the cover. I turned each page and saw some interesting stuff, particularly men's fashion - some of which are way too tacky and some are pretty impressive. Then there are the really crazy articles. However, there was something that caught my eye. No, it's not some guys hot bods, because it's not. lol. Wrong, silly! It's about the clothes that make the man. But it's gotta be fitted right. I feel like I need a makeover in a way because most of my clothes (which were once ok for my big size before) have now made me look like I'm a kid sporting on my dad's gear. So instead of being an L or even an M, I have to make the switch to (perhaps...) an S. That's right! Size S - mostly for the buttoned shirts. The same for the pants as they need to be fitted on the waist and properly hemmed. I'll have to start saving up and redefining my look and appearance yet again to another level ... Back to GQ. It showed candidates with their before and after shots. I know if they can look as good with going a size smaller, so can I. I'm looking forward to get the trend going for myself.