Chicago Outing 5/30/2012

It felt so great coming back to the big city (Chicago) especially on a relatively cool afternoon. I decided to get a plan going with Rizz. The idea was to bring her relatives along with us. And through everyone's availability, it worked! They've been in the states since September of last year and that they haven't seen much of Chicago visiting only Grant Park and Lakeshore Drive that time (in which it was before winter). This time around, they saw a little more: the Willis Tower (previously, the Sears Tower), Cloud Gate (the reflecting mirror structure known as 'The Bean' in Millennium Park) and the Navy Pier. We took advantage of public transportation, too with the Metra commuter train as well as the CTA bus that got us going to our destinations in downtown Chicago. I was able to provide a video highlight reel on You Tube for all of you to check out. We had a great time.

On a sidenote, Rizz's uncle wasn't able to make this time as he is in the Philippines. He is due to return in a few months. Perhaps he too will get an amazing opportunity to check out Chicago and its signature landmarks.

Guest blog

"I have no interest in holding "loyalty" to a high standard anymore...the meaning of the word seems to be lost in the wind, or written in a language that people just don't comprehend..and in the end, you really can't control what one will do or not do for you..no life is more important than the other.. I have found that having people's Respect holds more weight.. Respect sets invisible boundaries that just comes naturally.. Loyalty just seems to cause way more problems than Respect for some reason..lol" - D.C., Orlando, FL

So far, springtime has seen better days here in the Chicago suburbs. Its lovely so far with temps going up-and-down almost every week. That means it gets hot and cold, on occassions. There hasn't been the threat of imminent tornadic, severe weather that entered the entire state of Illinois (as well as other states) earlier at the beginning of the season. We've been blessed with beautiful conditions and its even really comfy underneath this one of many big trees near my place in which I feel the cool breeze ushering its way through. This is where I'm blogging from right now with my Blackberry. Maybe this'll be the best summer yet than the last 2 I've encountered already. I hope winter will treat me good, too with hardly any snow activity because that'll be the last experience I'm gonna have as a resident of Illinois. Next year, me and Rizz are Florida-bound. Its gonna be an exciting chapter. But no rush, really. I can wait here as long as the weather is just right.


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Looks like there has been a long period of inactivity lately. Sorry for not posting much. But coming in a day or two will be blogs that I meant to post because of recent things happening in my life. Lots to talk about...Thanks for your patience :)



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Donna Summer (1948-2012)

The music world lost its disco queen today. Donna Summer, 63, lost her battle to lung cancer. She is known for her hits "Bad Girls", "On The Radio", "Hot Stuff", "Love To Love You Baby", "Last Dance" and "She Works Hard for the Money." Her influence to generations in the music business remains as strong as ever ... I enjoyed listening to the 'Bad Girls' album in 1979 when I was just 5 years old living in South Korea (when my father was stationed there). I will have to look for the 'Crayons' album in which she released a few years ago. I listened to it before and I was amazed how well she sounded vocally with today's music style. That is most certainly going to be in my iPod as a playlist ... Rest In Peace, Donna Summer.

My Music Pick of the Day: Flo Rida - Wild Ones ft. Sia [Official Video]

Flo Rida's jams always sound great. I like this! Sia's infectious vocals heard often in this track definitely shows potential for her to have a solo album one day. That happened to Ke$ha who worked with Rida on the 'Right Round' track back in 2008. I got this on my iPod Nano.

THE LUCKY ONE Trailer 2012 Movie - Official [HD]

Me and Rizz just saw this romantic drama today at the Cinemark Tinseltown USA movie theater in North Aurora. Big budget movies are put aside for this weekend and I opted for Rizz's pick: THE LUCKY ONE. It was that good! Brilliant storytelling delivered once again by author/ screenwriter Nicholas Sparks who brought us THE NOTEBOOK, THE LAST SONG, and DEAR JOHN. Zac Efron portrays his on-screen character well and is in stark contrast to the many roles he had in movie career. Seems to show he's coming of age and possibly heading into the direction like Leonardo DiCaprio had. Taylor Schilling is also impressive and both her and Efron have great on-screen chemistry together. I don't wanna give away most of the plot here so I'll let this movie trailer do the rest. The movie is wonderfully written and I highly recommend it to anyone, including couples. It'll definitely make you fall in love more with your significant other. And for the singles out there, someone will come around and make a huge difference in your life. It's just a matter of time. Everyone deserves someone special and fate will draw two together :)

A photo that I wanted to share with all of you. The snapshot was taken by her cousin Ren-Ren on her iPhone. I decided to tweak it out a bit with some effects on the computer - and came out with this! I think it's a brilliant work of art. By the way, the pet bird's name is Francisca and she's valued in the pet store at $400+. Rizz loved the way Francisca handled her eyebrows with care.

A T-shirt I bought..One of many products/items that promoted 'The Avengers' movie hype.
The hype is over! It had finally come to this day - Friday, May 4th, 2012. My workplace seemed to get the day off right for me, Rizz and co-worker Kevin to see this anticipated high-octane superhero action flick helmed by director Joss Whedon. It was time for us to see the heroes - Captain America, Thor, Hulk, and Iron Man (along with Black Widow, Nick Fury and Hawkeye) - assemble in 'The Avengers.' And we decided to take advantage of the 'real 3D' viewing, as well which may have put a little bit of $$$ on the price of admission, but it didn't matter much here at the Cinemark Tinseltown USA theater located in North Aurora, IL. Their admission price seems to be convenient to the ticket buyer at about $2-$3 less than what most theaters charge these days. Add a purchase of popcorn, Twizzlers and soda - we were ready to get entertained! And we did! From the very first minute to the very conclusion (including those 2 bonus scenes during and after the movie credits), it was worth it. To see the superheroes together seem so surreal especially in the movie industry because it's never been done on a big-budget scale. Marvel Studios (now owned by Disney) launched the perfect vehicle for the summer. This was their baby. Unlike Sony and 20th Century Fox studios that still retain the movie rights to Spider-Man, Fantastic Four and the X-Men franchise, Marvel Studios had total creative control to make the film they wish it to become. I hope they'll come forth with a sequel in about 2 years from now. They gotta challenge the next bad guy: Thanos. Here's also hoping that Marvel can get back the movie rights to Spider-Man, X-Men and the Fantastic Four. Who knows? Maybe one day there could be one great big movie that'll put all the heroes on the frontline to save the world as well as the universe. Things are looking great for Marvel as they remain at the top of the superhero box office. For their comic book rivals DC Comics, they've struggled lately with Green Lantern but held strong with the Nolan-directed Batman movies. On their line-up next is 'The Dark Knight Rises' to be released this summer and 'The Man of Steel' (Superman) in 2013. I don't really have a preference on what to choose as long as the story is translated well from comic book to big screen.

I came home from a long work day that had short sleeping hours. As I felt light-headed for the most part. But I was in for a shock seeing what was on TV - Former NFL player Junior Seau (known to many as Chargers #55) died from what is reported as a suicide. I feel sorry for what his family's going through right now, especially his mother who was emotional speaking to the media on the loss of her son. Seau was a force to be reckon with on-the-field but was a great community figure, role model and philanthropist off-the-field as well as during his retirement. Seau did play for the Chargers but later went to the Miami Dolphins and the New England Patriots before calling it quits in 2008. His presence will be sorely missed but his induction to the Hall of Fame will eminate in Canton sometime soon joining legends and greats possibly in 2014 or 2015.



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The GAP-brand hoodie has always been a fashion tradition for this trendy clothing company. I respect them for retaining its look for the many years its been out. However, I realized something is different now from when I first worn my own GAP hoodie back in the late 1990s. The garment isn't as thick as a standard fleece anymore. Feels more like a sweater instead. Hopefully one day, they'll bring it back.

Pictured below is myself in that GAP hoodie taken back in 2005 at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.

I guess this explains why we had no power in the area for an hour or two last Thursday evening. Thanks to Com Ed for the save!

I got into my first vehicle accident since 1994. But it's a different scenario compared to the time when I was just a 2nd year college student in Norfolk, VA heading home from school and later getting my mom's red '85 Dodge Omni spun in the traffic intersection (because of someone's negligence of failing to stop at a stop light). Enter 2012 at 3:15PM on an April 25th, Thursday. I'm now a company driver operating a company vehicle which is a '08 Toyota Sienna. I was with a crew of 3 (which included myself). We were at a red light on the intersection of River St & New York St in the heart of downtown Aurora, IL. Everything seemed okay for the first 20 seconds as we all had a conversation going on in the van - until a lady in her '06 Buick Lucerne rear-ended us from behind. First, I was wondering what kind of damage the van had and second, to see if the lady herself was okay from the impact. So we both had to park awkwardly to the right of New York St (as pictured above) before the local police would arrive. It turns out that there was no significant damage (to the vehicles) or injury of any kind to both parties. However, through company policies and procedures (because after all - we were in a company vehicle), the accident must still be reported. I'm relieved that everyone is okay.

Make this the 2nd time now that the Hayame XT5 exhaust muffler went down again from my '01 Honda Civic Coupe EX. It apparently failed to hang on because of the damaged, rusted pipe that was once welded into it a few years back. So it's another minus of a modified part that was once a part of the trendy fast-and-furious days during the 2000 decade. All that's left now is the Injen-brand intake, the Eibach-brand lower springs, and the Altezza-style taillights. Though heartbreaking to a huge degree (because of its appearance and sound), the Hayame XT5 had to finally be taken out. I am grateful that there is a workable and affordable muffler to replace it. Special thanks to the staff of Auto Plus in Aurora, IL for their help in resolving this latest dilemma to my Civic.

This is the BEFORE photo. As you can see here, the Hayame XT5 exhaust muffler and the rusted pipe are separated.

This is the AFTER photo. As you can see here, a standard OEM muffler replaces the Hayame XT5 and that the rusted pipe is removed.

The last few weeks lately have been a thrill-ride for me, most of which seem to be beyond my control appearing sudden and sometimes unexpected. Despite all that's going on, I do my best to remain as cool, calm and laid back as possible. In any type of circumstance I usually face, I always take these as learning lessons to pave the way for a better life. Sometimes moments like these can bring out the best in myself while facing the daily trials. Through this also comes faith. I'm proud to say that God's been picking me up when things seem to be too much of a burden with its intricacies. And He's been consistent at that all these 37 years of my life.

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." - Matthew 6:34

My Music Pick of the Day: Sabi ft. Wale - Where They Do That At [Official Music Video]

Sabi had that smash hit way back months ago teaming up with Cobra Starship which charted all the way to the top of the charts. Now she's got her own track 'Where They Do That At.' Sounds really good. Laid back jam. She reminds me of the late Aaliyah in this music video - from her hairstyle to her outfit(s).

With the surprise instant elimination of show-fave Jesse Campbell, I will no longer watch 'The Voice' on NBC for the rest of this season. I find it unfair as it favors others to win the competition instead. I was hooked on it for the last few months seeing who will make it to the finals and I hoped that Jesse would be 'in-it-to-win-it.' But that didn't happen probably thanks in part to the NBC producers, showrunners, what have you, etc. who wanted to go with their own terms of a better direction for the show. I know Christina Aguilera didn't want to get rid of Jesse, personally, but she ultimately had no choice having to sacrifice someone great from her team. She played fiddle to what the producers want and they got it. Jesse Campbell IS The Voice, hands down. Every week, he took it up a notch with his performance that seemed so ever flawless and well loved by the audiences everywhere. No offense, but I don't think Team Christina team member Lyndsey is better than Jesse. She's still in the show and has survived. These shows can be as addictively entertaining but later comes those rules - that come from nowhere. I wish they'd stick to the rules of letting it be America's choice on deciding who wins and who goes home. I guess I'll have to look forward to next season. And I still have mad love for the judges - Adam Levine, Cee Lo Green, Christina Aguilera and Blake Shelton. They're a fun bunch and I hope they'll get the greatest talents out there that'll rightfully be given that opportunity to vie and win the coveted title as The Voice!

Note to self: These are great Kettlebell workouts

I am looking forward to these types of Kettlebell workouts...It'll be time to get this 37 year old body jacked and ripped -- to levels it's never been before. At the same time, I'll have to eat nutritiously and make this a vital part of my daily life. I devised myself a playlist of this awesome dude showing how its done with intense Kettlebell techniques. Once I get my Kettlebell weights, I'll be set. That means hardly any texting, internet time, or even blogging for that matter. Well, uhm, not necessarily on blogging. I can always allow time to blog for up to a minute, an hour, or days. But I won't let you guys down by not posting for a week, that's for sure :)

Guest Blog - Trayvon Martin/ George Zimmerman's 2nd degree murder & arrest, various cases, racism, etc.

(Jonnyroobs' Disclaimer: I am not responsible for the contents written in this guest blog post. It belongs to a friend of mine's from Virginia who seems to be aligning himself to Zimmerman. As much as I'm in total support for Trayvon Martin, his family and supporters, and justice in general, I would like to hear someone's perspective giving him a chance to validate his points regarding this case as well as other cases not taken to consideration by the news media. Racism, no matter what case, is still an ongoing issue that remains so prevalent in today's society like it was generations before. I still think 100% that Zimmerman's own actions beyond that of a neighborhood watchman were so wrong that led to Martin being gunned down in the end. That is no excuse - period. I look forward to this case when it goes to court. My friend is right though when it comes to other cases being ignored. I think that too is wrong. Everyone - no matter the background or race - deserves justice equally, and not just the media attention sticking solely on the Trayvon Martin case alone.)

Guest Blog by E.B., Northern Virginia

2nd Degree murder charges is pretty typical on cases like this. Once the court date starts we will see the actual evidence. One thing for sure is the the special prosecutor could not charge him on 1st degree is because the evidence proves he did not just run up to Trayvon and shoot him as the media and his parents have been claiming. Now the prosecutor has to prove Zimmerman killed Trayvon without good reason, such as his defense will be selfdefense in a life threatening situation. Now the burden is all on the special prosecutor to prove that Zimmerman's life was not in danger as Zimmerman claims and evidence leans towards so far. One thing is for sure, the special prosecutor would have not taken this case if it wasn't for so much media that has so far been very misleading. This is a dog and pony show. If they were truly for equality for all, where are the marches for the racial attack on the Baltimore man a few weeks ago who was beaten, robbed and stripped of his cloths by a group of blacks. Of the white child who was burned alive by the two black teens who hurled racial slurs at the child. It all happened around the same time as this shooting happened yet no one knows about it.

http://newsone.com/2001628/black-baltimore-men-caught-on-tape-beating-white-man-worldstarhiphop/

Read the comments by many blacks as they claim this white man is to make up for the sins of all white men. Who says black folk are not racist? Many blacks claim this... that they can't be racist or be found guilty of it even if they are. Sad. Many black are confused the reaction and comments of so many other blacks as they are starting to turn into the thing they hate the most. Racists.

http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=f4c_1332714892&comments=1

The media has a thing to point out victims who are black but if they are white they say nothing. Yet if the criminal is anything other then black they point it out. Look how hard they tried to convince us for 4 weeks the Zimmerman was caucasian. They even printed in a few major stories he was a white racist then when it came out he was all along a hispanic. Then they covered their tracks with "white-hispanic". Please... they are making up words to show white this and white that... when will they ever address our president as white-african American? They won't... even though he is 50% white. Again, media race bating. No word from the NAACP on those two cases and calls for justice.

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Titanic SUPER 3D

Here's a funny take on the Titanic 3D hype. The add-on effects for humor's sake is a definite plus. Well made! The movie itself fared behind American Reunion and this week's box office hit (because of the kids and teenagers out there) - The Hunger Games.

Guest Blog - Easter Edition

"On this very day...I will drop to my knees...take grasp of the earth with both full fists...lift my head up to the sky...and with prayer, give my thanks to the higher power for allowing me to live a life full of forgiveness...live a life full of love...living for no other reason but to walk the trail that "he" has put before me.. Im thankful for the ones who are in my life...and thankful for the ones that were removed.. I give my prayers to the souls that cannot share this day on earth..but possess the greatest seat possible right next to Jesus himself. He died for us...now we must live for him and everyone that he loves.. Happy Resurrection." - D.C., Orlando, FL

I'm so proud of myself. I was vowing vengeance against the wind that took away most of my good shots during hooptime. Looks like the wind was a 'no-show' and I claimed victory. I was able to drill 3-pointers (totaling to 50 pts) but it still wasn't able to usually go in like normal. I admit that my form seems out of whack just slightly because of the fact I use my wrist, hand and fingers often to operate a device in my inventory job. I think once I keep shooting hoops often, there'll be improvement. But man - I'm just happy that the weather conditions today was favorable and I hope there'll be more days like this. So here's to good news to mention for today :)

Guest Blogs (regarding Trayvon Martin)

(Disclaimer note: I did not write these pieces posted below. It actually comes from friends one that happens to live in Florida and another, in Virginia. The contents are uncensored in its pure raw form and remains 'as is' for everyone to read. It's one's take on the matter from different sides and how they feel regarding the controversial Trayvon Martin case which is dominating headlines as of late.)

So.....can somebody explain to me how a person can consciously put himself in a compromising situation...provoke an un-needed altercation...disobey direct orders from the police department...shoot AND kill somebody elses child who just happens to have a dangerous can of iced tea and a lethal bag of skittles... and at the end of the night get to just go home and SLEEP IT OFF???...FOR DAYS!!??? First off..If somebody is following me...and continues to follow me after i ask "WHY THE FUCK ARE U FOLLOWING ME?"..We have a problem..and will result in me bout to knock yo ass out so u would stop following me(as im sure Trayvon had the same idea)

They said there was a cry for help...in which it could have either been the man yelling for help as he found out the hard way what following a black kid at night for no reason at all will get you..an ass whoopin...but in retrospect..Trayvon was just fighting for his life..

It also could have been Trayvon yelling for help...and I honestly hope it wasn't him yelling for help...becuz its heart-wrenching to think about a child screaming for help in that situation.. it's enough to make u drop tears..

The puzzling thing about it...is that this guy wasn't even arrested..tested for drugs or alcohol...and not even thought of as being the immediate threat as HE IS THE ONLY ONE WHO HAD A DAMN FIREARM!!! The dude is a self-appointed neighborhood watch WITH A GUN...meaning...Nobody told his ass was in charge of patrolling the neighborhood...and most of all...What Neighborhood Watch carries firearms around??? Aint they just supposed to "Watch" and "Snitch"?? smh Praying for Trayvon and his family...praying this is justified..

- D.C., Orlando, FL

There are more facts coming out that are pointing out that Trayvon wasn't as innocent as claimed... nor how can a 6'2" 17 year be a 10 year kid. This picture is doctored to make him look innocent, much younger then he actually looks. Sorry but I will wait for all the facts because a latino man, no man should be wrongfully accused of racism or murder when evidence may be proving his innocence. They mobs that rally are supporting the illegal manhunt by the Black Panther party. There is no warrant out for Zimmerman and to place a $10K bounty on him is illegal. That is a call for a hitman and I do not hear black folk calling for the racist group of the Black Panthers to back off. How can you claim justice if you will not serve justice. The media has been lying as they claimed it was a racist white man when all along Zimmerman is latino with black family members. So, again I will let the special investigator gather their facts and determine what when on. But so far eye witnesses are claiming 6'2" Treyvon was beating to death Zimmerman who's voice you hear on the 911 tapes screaming for his life, not Treyvon as first claimed and had no choice but to shoot Trayvon to stop the beating and attack. I hope true justice is served by bringing out the truth of the situation wether or not if Zimmerman is innocent or guilty but so far he is innocent until proven guilty. Don't be fooled as so many are without weighing all the facts...Trayvon was witness in beating to death Zimmerman. Zimmerman is 6' 2", he is not small. He was more athletic and taller then Zimmerman. Trayvon should have not ran. He should have not been out so late at night. What good was a 17 year old doing being out late at night past midnight. I know as a 17 year old I was up to no good. All my Filipino, Black and White friends at age 17 being out past midnight were up to no good. There is more about this teen that is not being told. If someone was beating you to death and you could not physically stop it, you would use your gun to gain control. So please will every man stop perpitrating. There are over 100 black folk who died since Trayvon and not one word. Let the special investigator do his job and inform us if Zimmerman's story matches up. So far, the neighborhood is testifying for Zimmerman saying Trayvon was beating him to death. I heard one of the eyewitnesses today tell his side and his story does not match Trayvon's innocent appeal. Just saying what I have learned not what the liberal media is telling me... Please people get your facts straight.

- E.B., Northern VA

One of the many graphic art designs that illustrates the look of the up-and-coming iPhone5. This isn't an official or final rendering of the product. And I didn't create that impressive artwork either. I found it circulating on the internet. Apple heads just keeps us guessing on this one until its unveiling a few months from now. Rumors circulating so far are a bigger screen (in which Apple contradicts that thus sticking to its usual 3.5" screen), wireless charging and a 3D high-res cam. We'll just have to see come fall season of 2012 when its time for me to get renew my Sprint contract for another 2 years.

My Music Pick of the Day: Jack Johnson - You And Your Heart

It's time to feel inspired on a gloomy, rainy day. Why not put a Jack Johnson tune, right? LOL

Some interesting food tonight during inventory. Through the birthday girl, herself, Lindsay R. (who is a manager of a store located in the nearby mall) - me and some co-workers were able to get a taste of (get this!) non-dairy cupcakes AND pizza with no cheese whatsoever. However, we weren't able to eat the pizza that she was holding for Rizz's Blackberry cam. That one had pepperoni and crust.

Having a shaved head these days is sooo cool, sexy and aerodynamic...but what's cooler (and painful to the extreme) is having a tiny skin peeled off by the blade. Ouch! That hurts! LOL. I've survived, folks. Nothing really life-threatening :)


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Its one of those days today where it doesn't bode too well on the basketball court...I make a few shots here and there but it just wasn't enough to satisfy me. Battling the elements of heavy winds was a major factor as to why most of my shots swayed left or right. The sunny, pleasant conditions just wouldn't work with me today. The winds were dominant for the most part. The skateboarders on the opposite side were a non-factor. I didn't mind the noise and excitement coming from them.


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Inspiration for the day! Love it!!!!

My cousin Camille sings a song via Skype conversation

Had a wonderful Friday evening conversation via Skype with my relatives who just arrived in Virginia Beach a few days ago. It's good to know that they finally made it. They're living with Mom, Dad, and my brother Jeff for the time being. I hope to meet everyone by June, in which I am going to the area for my friend Ray's wedding. The young teenage girl singing the Taylor Swift tune is my cousin Camille. She's absolutely amazing in her musical talent. I hope one day she can have the chance to see or meet her idol, Taylor Swift.

My Music Pick of the Day: Pitbull - International Love ft. Chris Brown

Pitbull is at it again on the music charts with his latest single (titled 'International Love') featuring R&B performer Chris Brown. Very catchy and one of my favorite Pitbull music downloads. I got it on my iPod Nano right now playing in heavy rotation. Music to my ears indeed!

Oh, man! It's soooo good to hear from my longtime friend Danny A. who's currently stationed in Bahrain for a few months. Thanks to Facebook for helping us keep in touch. God bless you (Danny) always, especially on your assignment there.

So Orlando is within reach about less than 400 days from now. By around summer/fall of 2013, the move will be set. It'll be great to return to familiar grounds as well acquaint myself of all the great attractions there. Even meeting some of my friends who are still there would be an absolute delight. I'm very certain a part of me will become much more alive in regards to my creativity and spontaneity which was prevalent in myself before heading back to Virginia back then in 2009 ... I would like to explore things on all leaps and bounds even if it may be costly at first such as starting a digital photography business as well as doing real estate on-the-side. Maybe I should also go back to school, too, at some point. There's just a plethora of stuff in my mind right now that's incapable to translate all in this one blog alone. One thing's for certain that I DO want to happen: to see Dwight Howard STILL in his Orlando Magic uniform at the Magic's NEW arena - The Amway Center. I hope that dude doesn't go anywhere by the time I get there. Well, I shall end this blog for now and get ready for work. I have yet to eat lunch and dress up in my work clothes. Have a good day, everyone!

Happy Birthday to one of my longtime friends - Meredith! May you enjoy this day and celebrate it well with the ones you love! God bless you and your family always.

Looks like having an active life offline can definitely put a major pause on my blogging activities as well as my personal goals (i.e. trying to look for another job, etc.). I've been working a lot lately in inventory and the workload is nonstop at the moment. Seems like this is the busiest month by far. My last blog was sometime on the first week of March. This month is already passing by so quick - and so are the weather conditions! It's making a huge leap - jumping from winter to summer in a few days time. As if the spring season is non-existent. I powered on my A/C earlier (compared to last year, in which I blasted it around late May/ early June). It's good to see everything become so alive right in front of me (i.e. the birds chirping outside, the children's joyous laughs and voices heard from afar, the aroma of meat cooked on a grill, the grass becoming greener, trees starting to blossom, etc.). Definitely better than putting those in the backburner with a big 'no thanks' to Old Man Winter. And with all the activeness going on, I shall do the same with this blog page. So what can possibly happen next? A blogpage makeover? More personal posts? More exclusive Jonnyroobs TV clips (i.e. the visit to Michael Jackson's childhood home in Gary, IN) ? One may just never know. All I can say is keep yourself plugged-in.

I know that actor Kirk Cameron has been criticized lately over his Christian beliefs and his opinions toward the gay population, in general. Personally, I know firstoff its a sensitive subject matter or topic when it comes to religion and sexual orientation. I have friends from both the gay and straight sectors. Although there are differences between some of them and myself, I let things be what they are. I'm not gonna judge, defame, or cause any type of hate or hostility to another. I just go on with what I believe what is right and that is caring unconditionally for any human being regardless if its Kirk Cameron, die-hard Jesus lovers, Glee fans, or the folks from GLAAD. Everyone has a right to his/her beliefs and Kirk had his. And as for us, we gotta do the same in our own accord. The world isn't going to be a better place so we have to keep breaking barriers and showing what the map of the human heart is, no matter how different we may be. Hate has become prevalent for generations but love will always be forever. Let's start loving each other. It starts and ends with that in our lives.


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I've been sick the last few days and its the first time in a long time that felt like this. It took a while to recover w/ a store-brand multi-symptom caplets. It didn't do much to get me back on my feet. But the Dayquil and the Nyquil - that's a difference! In about 3 days, I pulled through nicely....I have gained a renewed sense of optimism as well as going with the fun. I'm gonna start taking pictures again and get back to the creative aspect. Last time I was really active with that was in the late-90s & early-2000s. I gotta bring that side of Jonnyroobs back to the scene. Its 2012. Perhaps this'll put EVERYTHING in perspective from here on out.


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I'm really seeing the physical aspect done to my body after drinking up to 3-4 bottles of soda during the last 2 weeks. I got myself a gut and it looks atrocious. Plus, I haven't worked that much too as it's been pretty slow with activity at my job. So tonight I was able to get my out-of-shape self back on the treadmill burning up to 200 calories in a span of one hour. Yeah, that's kinda less than usual. I had to lessen the speed a bit because I'm not in super shape just yet. Maybe the next day or so, I'll go faster. One thing's for sure: at least 1 can of soda a week should suffice and the rest should be juice, water, and milk. Plus I gotta ease down on the rice intake, too. Yup, I gotta get back into being in shape again with spring coming just a few months away - and that I can go back to shooting hoops at the park.

Dropping by '2300 Jackson Street' (Michael Jackson's Childhood Home) in ...

Me and Rizz had an assignment today at Gary, Indiana. Locals told us that 2300 Jackson Street (a/k/a Michael Jackson's Childhood Home) was just about a mile away from where we were working (at Family Dollar). Afterwards, we decided to proceed to that address and found the small house that once sheltered all the Jacksons (before they left for CA during the middle of the Jackson 5's fame). Today marks our first-ever visit to the place. Nearby is Roosevelt High School in which the Jackson 5 first entered a talent contest which led to their claim-to-fame in Motown. In the middle of a decaying, blighted neighborhood - at least their home still stands out for the world to see and realizing where the dream began. I am very happy to have made it here. It took years to make it happen - and it finally came to be.

It's gonna be slow with work next week. And tax returns couldn't have come at a greater time. I plan to take advantage of it, too. Hmm, I wonder how much I'd get back once it's all said and done. I'm gonna team up with the folks from H&R Block to make it happen. They were wonderful to work with last year.

Looking at the Galaxy Nexus (as shown on G4's Attack of the Show), I am falling instantly in love with it. Could it be my next mobile phone? That's one of my prospects (should it be available in Sprint). I already rule out the iPhone because of its kinda-obsolete technology compared to its competitors, as well as its slow 3G speed. Thanks to my good friend Greg S. for the valuable input regarding the iPhone's disadvantages (as I needed to hear an earful).

I finally got my own Derrick Rose edition AdiZero 2.5 kicks by Adidas valued at $110. Lightweight, sleek-and-stylish (in appearance) and comfortability are the qualities are what I wanted for my next purchase. And I believe that it meets or supersedes the mentioned qualities. This'll be the 3rd Adidas-brand basketball sneakers that I have in my collection. And like the last 2 that I bought, the AdiZero is also great with the feet. The typical Adidas sole has held pretty well when performing hoops action on the court in addition to standing for an extended period of time. The AdiZero sole should do just about the same. That experience will have to wait for a while because it is still winter. But come around April and May, I am ready to get the AdiZero 2.5 going. Thanks to Derrick Rose for being who he is - a team player who works hard day in, day out on the court. I wish there were more players like him who rely more on skill than personality and ego.

Whitney Houston (1963-2012)

"The golden voice loved by millions around the world, is suddenly silenced...it's a sad day...unreal."

It is with profound sadness to let all of you know that songstress/ pop diva Whitney Houston has passed away at age 48. Her body was found inside a hotel located in Beverly Hills. I just came home from grocery shopping upon hearing the news of her untimely death. Houston leaves behind a resume of successful music hits that has spanned well over 2+ decades. She is survived by her ex-husband Bobby Brown and their only daughter together - Bobbie Kristina.

This has been a great week for the New York Knicks and their rising star, point guard Jeremy Lin! In his last 4 starts (including last night's win over the Los Angeles Lakers), Lin was able to rack in 89 points total. That's the most from a player since the ABA/NBA merger back in the late 70s. Also, Lin is able to accomplish other feats: 1) he's a Harvard grad making it to the league and 2) he is the first-ever US-born Chinese to achieve superstar status. And he can follow the ranks of Asian NBA great Yao Ming. Lin's road to the NBA has had its shares of ups-and-downs. He was cut a few times from the NBA's D-League as well as only having limited play-action with the Rockets and the Warriors. And now is his opportunity to shine among the elite. While there are big-time money-making ballers in this day and age, there are the great stories that are rooted from those that still yearn for the dream. Jeremy Lin is the definitive example of that. Maybe the world has yet to see a lot of b-balling talents from those sitting on the bench in several teams. Perhaps even Lin's sudden-success can influence many talents globally, especially from China, Japan, Korea, or even the Philippines to make it to the NBA. So Kobe said he's never heard of Jeremy Lin or what he's done lately. Looks like the 38-pt effort he put on the Lakers has made it loud and clear for Kobe to know who he is now. Lin-sanity has now made a mark in the NBA. Can his success continue once Carmelo and Amare take the court soon? We'll just have to see where this'll go. Maybe Coach D'Antoni can mix it up some and if so, then the Knicks can be a formidable force in the east. We'll see if they can even steam out the Miami Heat. One just may never know what happens next.

The Amazing Spider-Man - Official Trailer #2 (HD)

Am I completely sold and convinced on this new cinematic take of the comic book webcrawler - with Andrew Garfield now donning the redesigned Spidey suit? I sure am now. This latest movie trailer of 'The Amazing Spider-Man' shows so much promise of a great story compared to what was shown in the teaser released a few months back. The only drawback of the Spidey movie franchise is that it cannot be linked to the other Marvel slate of superhero action movies like The Avengers, Iron Man, Hulk, Captain America, etc. (due to the fact that Sony Entertainment currently owns the movie rights to Spider-Man). [Note: This is also the same for 20th Century Fox that owns the X-Men and Fantastic Four movies.] But going back to Spider-Man, I think its definitely worth the price of admission with popcorn & soda as its time for us moviegoers to move on from the Raimi-Tobey Maguire Spider-Man trilogy ... July seems like so long, but what the heck - it's February now. The months seem to go by fast this year already. I am stoked about 'The Amazing Spider-Man.'

The good life..is there such a thing, or is it something false I was led to believe in? I haven't witnessed it yet. I haven't sensed the change maybe because I focus myself on working a lot. I hope it isn't too late to dream even when I'm an aging 37-going-on-38 year old....The good life...it starts with me...


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I didn't had time to post on the blogosphere last night because I was watching the game intensely while at the same time, I was going 'LIVE' on Facebook having interactive chat/ comments to friends & family in real-time. Congratulations to the New York Giants on their Super Bowl XLVI victory last night against the Patriots. It went right down to the wire with 5 seconds left. Make that the longest five seconds which seemed like forever to us, viewers. LOL. It definitely lived up to the hype and it is most likely to go down as one of the best SB's ever seen in history. This marks the 2nd consecutive Super Bowl that the Giants won over the Patriots. Looks like there'll be more rivalries to come for the cities Boston and New York City, no matter what type of sport it will be - football, basketball, baseball, hockey, etc.

Dolphin Tale - Official Trailer [HD]

This feel-good movie will make you laugh, cry, cheer, and be totally inspired! From the producers that brought us 'The Blind Side,' comes a touching story between that of a shy, quiet young boy, an injured dolphin he befriends named 'Winter' (who loses her tale from infection on her tissues), the helpful staff of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, as well as a prosthetics specialist who comes up with an artificial tale for Winter ... I rented 'Dolphin Tale' yesterday from a nearby redbox kiosk and it was what I expected it to be. It had the perfect formula to make it the ideal family movie for all ages. It had a good story and a brilliant cast that includes A-list actors Morgan Freeman, Kris Kristofferson, Ashley Judd, Harry Connick, Jr. and introducing newcomer Nathan Gamble, who plays Sawyer. Rizz and I absolutely fell in love with it. Perhaps we'll even take a future visit down to Clearwater, FL to check out Winter, herself in the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Hmm, maybe when we're FL residents later next year, we can visit as many times as we want - since it's not far at all from Orlando. For now, I recommend you guys to either rent or purchase 'Dolphin Tale.' You'll love it!

It took me awhile to back down on my Facebooking activities - but it finally has come to a reality. For most of this week, my time with Facebook has lessened to a huge degree (having only minimal log-ins daily). And I must say, I am getting quite used to it. It gives me a chance to free up some time in my daily life and do other things, especially on the goal-setting part that I've mentioned in my previous entry. The consequences of me abandoning Facebook (for the time being), I was expecting. I foresaw that I wouldn't be receiving as much notifications, group invites, and messages - and I am totally OK with it. I'm better off being in a world having at least 10-20 real friends that know me so well in life (rather than the rest within my 371 friends I have there now presently on my profile) ... I can now concentrate furthermore in handling other facets in my life in which I have evaluated carefully and need major improvement on. I'm working more on my mechanics on how about to make it successful in this world and it starts with me. With Facebooking activities out on the wayside, there's no way I can lose now with what I have to do. It's a major sacrifice but I think it's for the best. And if those friends still wanna reach out to me, they know that I'll be there for 'em - even during this 'quiet' phase.

Baghdatis Blows Up Big Time at Aussie Open

Appreciating the awesomeness of Marcos Baghdatis! No one does it better!

I know Dwight Howard's days as an Orlando Magic are numbered now as his impatience brews towards his teammates who fail to bring their best in the last few games. Probably after all-star weekend, he will most likely land somewhere else, thus leaving his playing years with the Orlando Magic behind. And of all the teams he can choose, I think Dwight Howard is best with one, in particular: the Chicago Bulls. With a winning record, they got what it takes to make it to the playoffs and a great chance of making it to the finals. However, having Howard in the Bulls can break away the chemistry among present teammates there. With the movement of certain Bulls' players for Dwight Howard (should it happen), it can be very risky. Everything that is earned thus far with the wins can go down. But there's gotta be the positives. Derrick Rose has a big man now by his side and they can't afford to lose. I do think they still should keep Luol Deng to make it a lethal trio - and not trade him off to the Magic. If Rose, Howard, and Deng stay, this can be the biggest thing since LeBron, Bosh, and Wade of the Miami Heat ... The photoshopped picture of Howard in a Bulls uniform can become a reality. I hope he goes to the Bulls. It's a good choice. Better than the Nets, the Bulls, or the Mavs. I approve and support it. Dwight wants a winning team. And they are IT!

I'm watching one of the last episodes of 'Kourtney & Kim Take New York.' From what I've seen on TV, she's just not ready to give up on her busy lifestyle and sacrifice most of that for her other half.

Maybe Kris Humphries was right.


"It's true, Kim," ... "You're not ready for someone in your life."

Before I go on with this post, I wanna let all of you know that I have been a fan of Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic, for years now igniting the blue and white - ever since I've lived in Orlando back in 2007 up until 2009. I will always have the utmost respect for Dwight Howard, his sense of humor/ personality and his God-given abilities that define him as one of the greatest big men to play the game. But I do have something to say about what's going on recently.

So the Orlando Magic are not doing well during the last few games (right after they were on that hot winning streak for a while). And what's on everyone's minds, especially the Magic fans, is Dwight Howard. Is he gonna bail out on the ballclub that has defined his stellar career for 6 years?

Every time they're losing, it seems more likely that his departure may be imminent (perhaps after All-Star break which is eerie in some ways because it does take place in Orlando). Could that be his last hurrah in Orlando? Only Dwight knows that.....

But what he doesn't know is that he's becoming his own worst enemy right in front of our eyes. He's being poisoned. Gone are his humble ways and instead, we're now facing a version that's yearns for more attention and exposure, notoriety and camaraderie (among other NBA stars in other respective teams). He wants it all, including that camaraderie part I just mentioned there. These days, the trend of having 2-3 good players on a team can have a chance to win the championship. Look what happened to the Celtics and the Miami Heat. They either won or have went close to winning it all. And Dwight Howard wants to leave Orlando for that very reason because the Magic GM Otis Smith doesn't have a good roster. He doesn't wanna start over and over with players he thinks aren't good enough. Dwight prefers to take it the easy route (the shortcut, pretty much) by teaming with high-caliber NBA talent and win it together somewhere else (other than Orlando - a city that remains supportive and faithful to him to this very day). Can't blame the guy especially who holds a great endorsement deal with Adidas and wishes to be so famous (anyone saw that MW3 commercial with him in the end? That's a sure sign). He wants to be a household name that everyone loves and retire successfully when its said and done with his NBA career. Maybe he'll try to emulate Shaq going mainstream with movies, shows, and music (other than taking on the 'Superman' persona from the once-Magic star of the 90s). So much expectations are weighing in on Dwight as he's heading toward the mid-to-late 20s in his life - and his time to win is now.

But...seriously....dude...if your heart is no longer with the city of Orlando and the Magic organization, its best to leave right now. Dwight, you say all these contradictory things saying you wanna stay, telling your faithfuls to buy your latest Adidas kicks, and even hold all these picnics to lure your fans -- but you gotta be truthful on how you feel. We don't want facades or ducking away mumbling or sobbing or what have you. Just the God-honest truth is what we all need so we can bury the hatchet. It would've been better off if you left early on this season rather than doing the wait-and-see approach on the timetable as to when you wanna leave.

It's too bad he can't turn out to be as graciously humble and a team-player first athlete like his Adidas-mate, Tim Duncan who wishes to remain with the San Antonio Spurs (and has stuck with them ever since). Duncan lets the game dictate the direction of his NBA career rather than being too much in the limelight doing too many commercials or being in movies, etc. Plus his intelligence speaking to the media mirrors to that of Tiger Woods, who is the greatest at his game, too. Duncan doesn't do the showboating thing. All he wants to do is win big with what he has even though they (San Antonio Spurs) may not have big names on their team. And he's done so twice already in his NBA career.

He's not like Dwight or some of these NBA divas now. He (Duncan) doesn't go knocking the door of the upper management or the GM trying to request for changes. First off, its not Dwight's business, really, on making changes. It's up to those guys to make the decision. He's just an NBA star assigned to the Orlando Magic and being paid by the owner there until his time there is done being dealt somewhere else. The Magic already fulfilled Dwight's request before in making some roster changes some of which have been unsuccessful (i.e. Gilbert Arenas) to make it further onto the playoffs and finals.

If Dwight took a paycut and is willing to go long-term with the Magic in team-building, that'd be awesome.

But that's not gonna happen. It won't. Free agency ruined most of the team chemistry with teams. As much as it poses as an advantage to teams that have struggled or almost went close to winning, it's a nail-in-the-coffin for most. It can take years to build the perfect team especially when their once big name stars head elsewhere to win the 'ship. It's sad. That's the state of the NBA today. Most of them wanna win big together, get the mainstream exposure and get big money contracts/ endorsement deals. Gone are the heydays of Magic, Bird, Jordan, Barkley, Isiah. Those guys (and their work ethics with their teams) have pretty much left long agos.

Ferris Bueller....2/5/2012

Save the date. 2/5/2012. The movie character Ferris Bueller (portrayed by the talented Matthew Broderick) is returning, this time on the small screen in what is possibly a TV ad for Honda during the Super Bowl next week. So far, that's the rumormill swirling around the internet. Broderick and those involved are tight-lipped on this hype at this juncture. All we can do for the meantime is watch a 10-second clip of an aged, mature, yet young-at-heart Bueller as he opens up the curtain wondering why does he have to go to work on a day like this.

Many of today's generation don't know who Ferris Bueller is unless they watch the movie with their parents or for themselves. Perhaps it's time for them to embrace, get acquainted with the character and what made him such a part of American pop culture in the 1980s.

Let's all 'Save Ferris' again...LOL

Bueller?

Bueller?

BUELLER?

Days ago, I mentioned of my break/ time off from Facebook. And already my resurfacing (especially this weekend) has caught some buzz from some of my friends there. A few would question and ask me why I contradict myself from what I said to them with that posting. That being said, I would like to clarify to them (as well as to everyone here on my blog page) that I am always on my Facebook account while I'm busy, away, or at work (with my Blackberry). On my posting, it said on the first sentence that I am logged on as usual. And I did also say that I wouldn't elaborate much on any comments/replies and creating posts for the most part. That means my social activity will lessen to a huge degree. I never mentioned that I was going to leave Facebook. I just needed to organize my time in life to commit to certain things especially my goals. Facebook will always be there for me to do my thing whenever I am given the open opportunity (particularly on a day off). Having to organize our time daily should be a routine and applied in life. That would mean less stress and unnecessary things in our way. Plan ahead. You'll get that peace of mind. Mine's is just getting started - and I'm satisfied with it already :)

What would it be like if the Chicago Bulls' timelines of 1996 and 2012 crossed together right now? We'd be seeing Bulls' Michael Jordan in-his-prime teaming up with present star, Derrick Rose. Imagine that. That'd be a treat worth one's lifetime :)

With 11 ten-win seasons, 2 Super Bowl appearances, a Super Bowl MVP and being an NFL all-star under-his-belt, there is still an uncertain cloud that looms over Peyton Manning who has been sidelined from action this NFL season due to healing (after major surgeries done to his neck). Of all the accolades and accomplishments mentioned, not even those are able to keep his job fully secure. The final word on March 18th will come from the Colts' owner, Jim Irsay who have made big changes in Colts' management already in the last couple of weeks, with the firings of head coach Caldwell and other coaches, GM Bill Polian and their potential draft pick - Andrew Luck.

"I'm not in a very good place for healing, let's say that...It's not a real good environment down there right now, to say the least. Everybody's walking around on eggshells. I don't recognize our building right now. There's such complete and total change." - Peyton Manning

I totally empathize with Peyton on how he is feeling as he's in the middle of all this. Sudden changes are building around him within the organization. It's not the same like it once was. Like in today's businesses and companies filled with demands and expectations, changes happen no matter how good or bad things can be. As long as there is someone with the upper-hand and power that dictates the situation and pace, we (as employees and workers) can be dealt with one way or another whether its through job promotions, job transfer/relocation, paycut, bonus or being laid-off and termination. Remember, we are working more for the best interest in a company and less so for ourselves earning a paycheck or a certain-so salary (unless we make a decision investing in a business to be our own boss). In today's fragile job economy, we are all expendable no matter what job/career we're in and even how much money we make. In the end, it all comes down to a company's decision that'll decide our impending fate.

The greatest measure and strength from all of this is how we can turn things around and overcome through it all, sometimes taking the brunt and bumps along the way. We must have the fortitude to move on and continue making strides for a better life (for ourselves and the ones we love). I have total confidence in Peyton that he will most certainly earn better opportunities elsewhere in the league, especially having a steady resume already in his illustrious NFL career.

We may not earn big money like Peyton, but we sure can be ready to move on to bigger and better things should Plan A take us to an economic 'dead end.' There's always the Plan B 'detour' somewhere out there.

This is the packaged version of the 'TRANSFORMERS: Dark of the Moon' movie I've been anticipating for months. On January 31st, I will own my copy of that. It contains 7-discs, one of which is in Blu-ray 3D format, as well as behind-the-scenes featurettes on-location in Chicago (that wasn't shown at all in the bare-bones version released last September, 2011). Looks like waiting does indeed have its rewards. I can't wait to watch this in all its glory -- but unfortunately, it'll take some getting used to seeing Ironhide die in such a painful death. I gotta admit, it was a tearjerker moment in some regards. He (Ironhide) was one of my favorite living, breathing Autobots in this trilogy......Overall, I'm stoked about the good news of this latest video release. And I WILL spend my hard-earned U.S. dollars for it.

Just when we thought that we'd be ending our service with Comcast (due to a $30 increase in fees), there was something good that came out of it. We were able to find a package known as the 'Triple Play Bundle' in which there is internet, TV, and phone for a valued price. After adding the increased fees and everything, it all totaled up to what we were paying before ($30 less). As if nothing big really happened (except for the addition of a phone line and a brand new cable modem which is double the speed than the previous one we had). We are grateful to have gotten the help of a Comcast sales rep (on the phone) who knew a lot what to offer us, especially when we didn't liked that big increase to our cable bill. However, there is one more thing we'd like to tell them before the next billing cycle: a $25 credit because the serviceman didn't show up during install in our home. Overall, we're still satisfied of what we're getting right now - and that's saving $30.

Joe Paterno (1926-2012)

Joe Paterno, legendary college football coach, has succumbed to cancer at the age of 85. He was the only coach to have won 400+ victories in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision and spearheaded 5 undefeated teams that won their respective bowl games in dominating fashion. With these accomplishments that have developed for decades, he was inducted to the College Football Hall of Fame.

Paterno was well-admired by the university he worked for, the sports world, and through people who have come to have known him in his life.

I have witnessed Joe Paterno once and that was during my middle school years. He visited Norview High School back in the late 80s and I heard his motivating speech about bringing the best out of yourself and accomplishing your goals. He often made comparisons to those and sports. Seeing him up there on the podium was a great moment forever etched in time. I still remember that as if it was yesterday and remains fresh to this very day like it was 1988 all over again.

Coach Paterno, you are and always will be 'the man.'

Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close - Trailer 2 (HD)

Just saw this today in the theater and it's me & Rizz's first movie to see this year. Brilliant storytelling showing the compassion and power of the human spirit. Wonderfully acted by Tom Hanks, Sandra Bullock and introducing Thomas Horn who plays the main character.

For those that want a simple movie to see this weekend (other than the high-octane, commercially driven flicks 'Haywire', 'Underworld: Awakening' or 'Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol'), 'Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close' is one worth checking out.

I've attached the trailer (via You Tube) to this latest blog posting. Perhaps this will convince you to check it out (if you haven't already done so).

So what's next to see? Maybe 'The Vow' or 'The Lucky One.'

Timbaland - Pass At Me (Explicit Version) ft. Pitbull

Music Choice of the Day - Pitbull does it again! Either someone collaborates on a track with him, or vice versa. So far, it's hit-after-hit. And this is Timbaland's first take on this type of beat, too. I likes!

If anyone who owns a Lenovo Thinkpad T60 (or equivalent) is undergoing a 'black-screen-of-death' situation (with the batt/ electric/ system indicators still lit) and nothing's happening, go for the reset. To achieve this reset, we must go forth with 10 intervals (like if it's 10 laps around the track for an athlete) of holding the push button consecutively for 10 seconds. But it doesn't end there. There is the LAST attempt (known as the 11th try) after the 10 intervals. For this latest IMPORTANT stage, hold the push button for 30-seconds. Then plug in your Lenovo Thinkpad T60(or equivalent) AC adapter to the wall outlet, or power strip, what have you, etc. And see it come to life!!!!

I'm glad it did for this company laptop :) Someone is smiling.

For some skeptics, it may sound like urban legend or something made up, but I saw and I witnessed. It works! I must provide a disclaimer for this blog though. It will only work for this scenario as seen on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pm4Lklr6-Rk ... Results may vary and that there may be/ are different solutions for any other descrepancies with the Lenovo Thinkpad T60.

Vanilla Hostess Pudding Pie 1986

I beg to differ calling this 'disgusting.' From my perspective, it wasn't bad. To others, they may offer a second opinion which will contradict mine's. The product shown in this You Tube video clip is the Hostess Pudding Pie. It was definitely a favorite during my childhood in the mid-'80s. I can still remember the chocolate covered crust on the outside and the rich vanilla pudding flavor in the inside. Sure it may wind up to be a mess on our hands if we don't hold it with a napkin or the product's wrapper, but it's all worth it once we get a taste of it. Too bad it only came out for a limited time. Hopefully, Hostess can bring it back and make it a part of their regular line-up of their snack treats commonly found in grocery stores and convenience stores (i.e. 7-Eleven). I wouldn't mind having another bite of this delicious dessert, but I do not plan on eating a lot of these this time around, for health's sake.

For now, my suitable replacement to this is Dunkin's Boston Creme donut. It may not be pie, but it does retain some of the ingredients that does remind me of the snack from years ago.

As much as I'll be focusing mainly on my life itself (than online) starting tomorrow, I will try to put in time to write my blogs here exclusively on Jonnyroobs Centralized. That's a sure promise. I'm making strides to bring about a positive channeling effect in my life starting first with my goals. I know it's a New Year and it's time to make changes. Every day is a blessing and I gotta take advantage of every second, minute, hour, day, and month that comes this year.

Flo Rida - Good Feeling [Official Video]

Music Choice of the Day - Flo Rida's always got the good jamz. Heard this on B96 FM the other day.

Excerpts of "I Have A Dream" speech by Martin Luther King, Jr.

I say to you today, my friends, that in spite of the difficulties and frustrations of the moment, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that my four children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.

This is our hope. This is the faith with which I return to the South. With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with a new meaning, "My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring."

"Yo, when life says 'stop', you say 'go'!" - lyric from 1990s track "Go For It" (Heart & Fire) by Joey B. Ellis

If I want us to go to FL so bad, I gotta get started on pursuing change. I am still focused on the dream of going to the sunshine state by 2013 before turning 40 years old. I don't intend to stay in IL for long enduring another long winter. Better days are ahead.


Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Tim Tebow may be the latest athlete to make headlines and be scrutinized by mainstream media and the sportsworld. Its not because of the things he does on-the-field but more on emphasis off-the-field regarding his belief, his stance on abortion, and being a caring person unlike most talented, greedy athletes in this era. He's rare as if he's an athlete that's stuck in the wrong decade. He would've fit well with the values and morals like past NFL gridiron legends from years ago. To Tim, there are things to do while he's here such as being there for children in the Philippines (helping with funds to build a hospital), making wishes come true for those (who are terminally-ill or having a life-threatening disease) here in the states, and much more! Being Christlike, a saint, a good samaritan, etc. in this modern era can get a bad rap in this world because people like Tim are just too good for us. We judge him too much more than the plays he make with his Broncos teammates. Sure, they fell short of making it to the Super Bowl but their season is unforgettable and successful, nonetheless. May God continue using Tebow to help guide us all back to the right direction instilling the values most of our forefathers and ancestors left us. What was once forsaken, we can have it all staying true being a nation under God again :)


Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Janet Jackson - Black Cat

Music Choice of the Day - Miss Jackson from back in 1989 ... song and video still looks as fresh as it was during the days of my youth. Wow, how time flies! Had to post this up since I survived Friday the 13th yesterday (although I did hurt my kneecap badly before I went to sleep). LOL. I didn't see a 'black cat' at all that day.

Work.

The workplace environment has a company. The company itself has a set of objectives that must come to fruition within a day, a week, and even a month. Reliable staff and workers are employed by the company. And the company's needs are met.

That is work, as the usual.

But I'd like to pass on that part and focus on the people that I've come to have known during my few years with a company here in the Chicago, Ilinois area. Its turnover rate is usually high. Most of them have come and went moving on to better ventures in the workforce, while a few have ultimately met their fate somehow either in death or a consequence through their own actions. Some are as mysterious and interesting and then there are the crazy ones. Overall, they have all left an indelible impression to me and thus, I've come to wholeheartedly appreciate them as human beings. Each has a story of his/her own. And I hope they are doing well wherever they may be.

For those that are still around, I will do everything I can to embrace them like family and part-taking in the duties that work has for us. And then there are some that don't work in the company anymore, but remain good friends with me outside of the workforce....I gotta enjoy everything -- until my time is done here and when I will have to go elsewhere to succeed in my goals.

Felicity enters the world!

Congratulations to my dearest friends - Eileen and Kris - in Bradenton, FL, on the birth of their newborn baby daughter. May God's blessings be upon you all, this year and throughout ... I look forward to meeting you both and Felicity one day in the near future.

David Guetta - Without You ft. Usher

Music Choice of the Day - sticking with the Guetta jams. He always has great collaborations going on with today's top acts. This one's a great example as he works alongside with Usher on this track.

"All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney

Cobra Starship: You Make Me Feel... ft. Sabi [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Music Choice of the Day - A great 'feel-good' dance song! Never tired of it. I can jam to this anyday! I have this as one of my ringtones to my Blackberry.

Gym Class Heroes: Stereo Hearts ft. Adam Levine (LYRIC VIDEO)

Music Choice of the Day - Travie's metaphoric rhymes and Adam Levine's vocals = sheer genius! I like the throwback boom boxes in this sing-along video. Got this on my Blackberry as a ringtone!

A pinoy pro wrestler is making waves on the Impact Wrestling TV show (shown on Spike TV every Thursday night). He is Michael Paris, 25, known to the wrestling world by his showname Zema Ion (also called 'Shiima Xion' in other independent wrestling circuits and promotions). Ion is billed to be from the Philippines and his larger-than-life, macho, ego-driven personality seems to be hinging towards more on the 'heel' (bad guy) side. It's really fun seeing Zema Ion in action and representing Filipino-America to the fullest. The music biz got Enrique, Bruno Mars, Charice and Arnel (from Journey). Boxing's got Donaire and Pac-Man. And pro wrestling had Bautista - but now it's Zema Ion's turn to enter the spotlight. He's doing it so well in 'heel' mode and I expect him to make strides in his professional wrestling career. Sure, he may have not won the coveted X-Division title from Austin Aries last weekend, but he's already getting his name out there in the mainstream. The world will get to know Zema Ion in the times to come.

KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, ZEMA ION!!!!

[Picture Source: from Impact Wrestling]

Little Bad Girl (Lyrics Video)

Music Choice of the Day ... Liking these David Guetta tracks. Great DJ. This is one of 'em. "Little Bad Girl" featuring Taio Cruz and Ludacris.

Tim Tebow may be this generation's beloved, heavily scrutinized, and newsworthy NFL quarterback since the heydays of 'Broadway' Joe Namath. The public and media still got it wrong. It's not the work of one man, but a team and their hard work! Tebow and the Denver Broncos made a great feel-good story this season known to many as 'The Miracle in Mile High.' The Broncos which started off with a 1-4 record are now in the NFL playoffs sweepstakes shocking the Pittsburgh Steelers on overtime with a 29-23 victory in a Wild Card game last weekend. And if they win over the Patriots in the next game, it can only get better for them! However, their last game against this powerful dynasty hasn't fared well for them as they lost so bad. Time will tell if Tebowtime is gonna happen again. Maybe things can go in their favor. Maybe not. For the doubters and naysayers, get ready to put Tebow and the Broncos down. For those that wish to do the opposite, get ready to witness and see what happens. In the NFL, there are so many stories that are made.

So-called 'friends' come-and-go out from my life, BUT the true, real ones remain. That alone puts a big smile on my face. I know whatever I do can't please everybody in this world. Sometimes too much is too much. Better a small world than a bigger one. I'm satisfied with that. It's comfortable, especially during this phase in which I'm growing older, setting goals, counting my blessings and appreciating every moment of what life has to offer me while I'm still alive and breathing :)

The trip to Florida has awakened my eyes to a great outlook in life as well as infinite possibilities on what the great future can be. I can go on forever talking about it. Living there is now only within reach (hopefully it can be done before I turn 40 years old). And that's something I like to see happen. But first, I have to steer course and direction on the situation that's going on right now here in Chicago. With 2012 already making its presence known, this can open a new chapter for me to start anew, fresh, and fully focused. If I don't pick up the pace on making changes in life right now, then Florida will turn out to be nothing more than a daydream and that I won't able to grow and immerse into the person I wish to be. I can't procrastinate myself this time around and keep wishing forever for something to happen. 2012 may be known to skeptics as the end of the world or Armageddon, but if it were the case, I wanna go out in a blaze of glory achieving and accomplishing things left-and-right. My New Year's resolution really is to be THE better person than I was last year, and the year before that, and so forth. The time is now. The time is here. Time to get to business :)

After 600+ snapshots and 4 awesome days that went so fast, part 2 of our holiday vacation drew to a close. It felt good returning to the sunshine state and its warm winter weather conditions. What I'm so proud of is the fact that this marks Rizz's first-ever visit there. For me and my brother, it was a return to paradise filled with palm trees, thick grass and a wonderful landscape. It seemed a bit rough at first as to how things were going to plan out (because some of it came about the last minute), but by God's graces, we managed to take care of it successfully. Our needs and accommodations were met, including a 4-day stay at a hotel and tickets to Walt Disney World theme parks in which it was Rizz's first time there (with the exception of Hollywood Studios in which we didn't had time to go to). She enjoyed every moment of it as much as we brothers did. We were able to get on certain rides, enjoy 3D screened-entertainment, and pose with photos alongside Disney cartoon favorites Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto, Daisy Duck, Rafiki and the Disney princesses (much to Rizz's delight). Besides the Disney theme parks, we were able to take Rizz to Universal Studios CityWalk. She loved it there, too. Overall, the money spent on this trip was worth it. Every single cent of it.

It is time to get back on the blogging saddle once again! It's been a while since I've done this and I hope to put a lot more emphasis on blogging this week. Stay tuned for fresh exclusive blogs for 2012 starting tomorrow! Vacation is finally done. Time to get the mind back into full swing!





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Part 1 of our holiday vacation draws to a close. And when we're having fun, it all goes by so fast. We're now just wrapping up our time in Hampton Roads, Virginia and we thank the many familiar faces (including new ones) that welcomed us with open arms and friendly smiles. It sure felt good being in this community that I've been so accustomed to all my life. For now, it is goodbye, but everyone knows (including my family) that there will be a return sometime in mid-2012 because I have a best friend's wedding to attend.

What's on tap next? Orlando, Florida. This'll mark Rizz's first time coming to the Sunshine State.

When the sudden difficult circumstances and scenarios exists that sometimes go beyond our wildest dreams and expectations, we can only go by what we have whether its by ourselves or the ones that are willing to go the extra mile with us. Through whatever outcome, we will emerge victorious through faith and wit. Because in the end, God's taking care of it all steering clear from any obstacle that may be in the way.
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These are shoes to kill someone for, to trample other people for, to tear the mall's door for, to cause a riot for .... all because of this one pair of Jordans. Shame on the shoe company for their strategy and execution plan regarding word-of-mouth. They should've known where this was going especially being it that this is one of the most sought-after shoes in Jordan's NBA career. Next time, orders should be done online or a customer should be escorted to the store one-by-one by security. With all the chaos that went on nationwide, they should produce more and stick to a new game plan on giving these out safely and securely. Forget the Kobe and Lebron sneakers. The Jordan Retro 11 Concord shoe is what's HOT right now ... I'm glad I was never into the hype. There's more to life than just Jordan shoes. To others, its the greatest materialistic possession to own, especially for die-hard sneaker enthusiasts/fans.

It good to know too that the NBA season finally arrived on Christmas Day. It was almost a season that wasn't. This 2011-12 season should be something else! There's a lot of talent in teams. Its not just the LeBron, D-Wade & Bosh show in Miami anymore. Other players are taking their talents elsewhere!


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Merry Christmas to ALL! Enjoy the holiday to the fullest!
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This is it! After days of no blogging, I've saved all the excitement for this one! FINALLY, we're on vacation - and out of Illinois until January 2nd of 2012. Right now, me & Rizz are waiting in Concourse B at Midway Int'l Airport in Chicago. Just hours from now, we'll be in my hometown of Norfolk (but my family now lives in Virginia Beach. We are to spend time with my folks then my bro Jeff will tag with us on the Orlando trip! I can't wait to feel the FL weather again as I plan to embrace it with open arms. We're to go to Disneyworld as its gonna be Rizz's first time. Well, I will save more for later and provide more blog updates. Thanks to my many friends that have already wished me happy holidays in advance and saying safe travels. Most of all, thank God for this day :)


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Things have drastically changed big time for the Bucs since my previous posting last September. The team is now sitting at a 4-9 record, a far cry from a promising outlook in the beginning. The future looks grim for head coach Raheem Morris as his job is in the hot seat. Low scoring offense, poor defense, lack-of-discipline on (some) young players, and missed opportunities resulting in turnovers are some of the many reasons why the ship has sunk for the Buccaneers this year. Management needs to make the necessary changes in coaching personnel, player roster and must have the sense of urgency to take care of this. I hope the Glazers are really serious about this because the Bucs' fans are for sure! ... As much as I have faith in Coach Morris, I can't see him continuing on past this season. His days are already outnumbered with the losses that continue to mount. He does all he can to help motivate a 'youngry' set of players, but he must be held accountable on the end-result. He keeps saying how many times they'll improve in this area or that area after each loss, but it always turn out to be the same tune: mistake-after-mistake. And it sucks beyond belief. I'm at a loss for words right now how the turnout of the season is for this group.

My car is on its way to being 10 years old. But it seems like she's going through alot right now. She is having a leak somewhere in the engine. And she is getting checked by the local car service repair shop. I hope to have more lasting memories with my Honda Civic before she gives up and dies on me one of these days in the future.. She's still ok with me.


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I know that snow is coming soon. But it's not going to happen right now. A few days ago, the Weather Channel called for snow in the forecast, but it unlikely for remainder of the week Maybe it'll appear a couple of days later from now since its getting quite chilly this time of season.. But the forecast calls is projected having sunny skies and rain so far. So let's hold off for the meantime regarding Illinois' first-shot at Dec snow.
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I am writing this entry via Vlingo. It's my first time talking to make this blog. How awesome is that!!! Its a really convenient thing to do!


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Once again, I have passed over the Black Friday sales hype. For me and Rizz, stores selling items $5-$10 lower than usual was not worth the aggravation and frustration (especially for those stuck on the right side of the highway OR those already in the parking lot looking for a parking space). That was what we saw last night as we headed home taking the exit (going opposite direction). The interesting part to all of this is what we only live a block away from the outlet mall ... Even though we didn't participate in this once-in-a-year sales event, we hope that everyone had a safe, patient shopping experience.

I found out today that a franchise-owned Midas car repair shop DOES NOT accept the Midas Car Care credit card. The card I got is probably accepted for a corporate-owned Midas shop (in which I assume is the one I went to in Virginia Beach before my IL move). That seemed to be the bad news. However, the good news was that I only had to pay for a tire rotation and oil change which amounted up to an estimated $50.

Black Friday is coming upon us once again! There'll be a plethora of deals out in the open whether they're gonna be on-site or even, online! Most of us consumers are willing to go and brace the cold temps in the wee hours of the early morning and head over to stores with their credit cards or cash and some are willing to go on their computers, pointing-and-clicking their way through all the great buys available. Some shoppers are now actually taking advantage of the early discounts and sales online set forth by retail companies/ merchants. And for those that are doing outside shopping, some retail stores do plan to open early before others will on Black Friday morning. As many consumers are willing to spend their hard-earned dollars or choose the method of bill-me-later on the outside, they will have to patiently endure the major consequences of heavy traffic as well as crowded parking. Plus, in addition to those mentioned, they must also prepare for longer lines and overcrowded capacity inside stores, and even advertised merchandise that will later turn out to be out-of-stock in a fast-paced rate. The added convenience online is a huge benefit for those that are willing to to do the shopping route via computer. No long lines. No crowds. However, the only problem is: one may have to wait awhile for the product to be delivered. Whichever way you prefer, I hope you enjoy your shopping experience on Black Friday. Have fun!

I can't say for sure if being a Filipino-American can be either considered a curse or a blessing. When it all comes down to it, one has to equally bridge and embrace both cultures/customs from the Philippine and American perspectives. It can be a tough act to follow at first for someone because it's like being introduced to a crash course called 'culture 101' and that he/she are already accustomed and acclimated to the culture they were raised on from the beginning of their lives. For me, I'm still a work-in-progress at 37 years old. I have grasped the Philippines' history as well as the culture during my college years, but my biggest weakness is the language barrier. I just haven't had enough time to grasp it. Realizing this flaw I have, it brings forth the consequences of me being as dumbfounded as I can be, as well as being the pun of jokes from those that are true natives to the islands. No matter what puts me down or keeps me up, I have to stay true to the pride that is Filipino-American and humbly accept for what I have become ... No matter what circumstances and challenges I face daily (in peeling the layers of my Filipino side), I will always respect the Philippine culture for what it is as well as the Filipino people that I will come face-to-face with now and the upcoming times ahead.

I am so stoked about tonight's fight between Pacquiao and Marquez on their 3rd showdown. It's gonna go down in a couple more hours. I have some friends coming over in a bit. I'm planning to order some pizza before they eventually make their way. It shouldn't be bad having our Mexican/ Latino friends over and then us Filipinos on the other side watching the fight together. Hopefully another friend (who is African-American) will also show up. It's good to have a crowd set up together at the home.

Aftermath:

Pacquiao wins majority (yet controversial) decision; foray of boos given by Pro-Marquez crowd at the MGM Grand

"Pacquiao has thrown 578 punches connecting 176 while Marquez had it 436 connecting 138. Pacquiao threw 304 jabs connecting 59 to Marquez's 182 with 38 connects. Pacquiao threw 274 power punches connecting 117 while Marquez threw 254 with 100 connecting." (taken from a page link in Pinoygreats.com)

Marquez thinks he won again and felt robbed. How could he have won anyways? Let's be realistic --- by just hitting Manny hard with the punches, alone --- to win? Dude, it takes a lot of fast punches thrown/landed to win every round AND a knockout to achieve that too. He failed. I will leave it as that. End of story...Filipinos and Pacquiao fans rejoice!

Me and my Mexican friend talked about the fight afterwards ... From what he saw, he said that it was a draw and NOT a win for either of the two. He thinks that each fighter gave his best performance. Although I seem to disagree (because Manny put in the most thrown/landed punches stats than Marquez), we didn't argued about it. He handled it well and went home w/ his wife to pick up their kids. So for any Filipino or Mexican arguing about this, this can be debated but with respect and no hatred to any one or anybody.