reyms

Dunno if it's been said before..but E.T. on the Atari 2600 takes my number one spot.

Bram Stroker's Dracula on the Sega CD comes in a close second!

I am definitely a balikbayan. I grew up in the PI until I was 6 and was sent here soon after. However, the last few years, I've been making it a point to visit my family there at least once a year and try to stay 2-3 weeks...more if possible. Every time I go, I enjoy my time no matter how simple it may be.

I understand that even though I dress simple, I still stick out. Maybe it's the expressions on my face or the fact that I'm very quiet when I'm in public over there. I still understand tagalog, I try to speak it, but my grammar and lack of a filipino accent just makes everyone laugh. LOL! It's okay though, some people actually find it entertaining and I think that's a great way to meet new people. I'm a fairly easy going guy, humble, and I try not to forget my roots because I still have family members there who still live in poverty and I have those who are quite comfortable. I guess what I'm trying to say is just because I live in the states, doesn't mean I'm better than anyone when I go to visit. That's not who I am and never will be.

But I have seen some who visit and try to maintain their "rock star" or "hardcore" image and they are the ones who usually disrespects or thinks too highly of themselves.

If I could speak our language fluently and could find a job there, I could see myself living there. But the simple fact remains...I grew up here and this is where my family wanted me to be. I'm definitely proud to be a Filipino-American. Besides...I can't resist a good home cooked filipino dish!

And don't get me started with the pinays there! Sure, we've got some fine looking ones here...but most seem too plastic...inside and out. Most of the women I saw there have natural beauty that can't be touched! I love them all!!!

Me and my dog:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/gibfather/Flatland/Hollywood%20Jam%202006/PICT0340.jpg

Stress....sometimes it can get too overwhelming. I've lost hair from stressing out too much. Luckily for me, I'm at that point where I think I'm finally getting them back! HA!

As for what I do? I have to ground myself and realize I can only live one day at a time and only worry about things I can do something about at that moment. When I want to escape, I usually turn to my hobbies like riding my bike. It's always a great way for me to put things aside and focus on one thing...riding. After my ride, I usually come back with a clear, refreshed mind and it helps keep me together.

My 1 yr old Puggle(half pug, half begal):

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/gibfather/Misc/pokipuppy.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/gibfather/Misc/pokipuppy2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/gibfather/Misc/Poki01.jpg