Garces Ohana In Maui

Kitchen Makeover Project Done!

2012-01-24T23:04:00.002-10:00

Finally our first major home improvement in our modest home in 15 years. Better late than never.

"Before" (Pantry, formica countertops, vinyl floor, no overhead cabinets)

Christmas Family Dinner 2011

2011-12-25T22:59:00.001-10:00

Absent are Don and Lynnette who are in Manila doing Christian missionary work. We miss them very much.

Hannah's Christmas Day 2011

2011-12-25T17:27:00.000-10:00

Beginning at Christ The King as she lined up for the blessings but she returned to her seat before they got started.

And opening the gifts after

This Is About As Good As An All-Out Concert!

2011-12-23T15:00:00.001-10:00

You have to be a parent or specially a grandparent (hehehe!) to get really excited about these surprises. Even though she is only 2 1/2 years old, yes, I think she has the interest and we have committed to pay for all her future piano lessons!

Click on picture to play video

Merry Christmas! Please, Not Happy Holidays

2011-12-22T08:22:00.002-10:00

Say Merry Christmas with pride. Specially if you think you are a Christian. In the US it's now prohibited to say Merry Christmas in government offices when you're dealing with the public!!!

Behold We Have A Room At The Inn

2011-12-21T00:12:00.006-10:00

Finally my 2.5 year old garage cleanup project is complete and I can now bring in and pamper my "old" wheels once again! I can hardly wait to do a full detail work on this cat for the next two days. Merry Christmas to my Jag - Jangga! hahaha. ( I named it Jangga and don't ask me what that means. It just sounded beast-like to me)

Happy Days are here again. It's been parked outside under the intense heat of our Maui sun that the car cover literally was tearing apart all over.

Click here to see more pics of "Jangga" my Jag

Christmas Officially Begins In Our Ohana

2011-12-18T19:05:00.002-10:00

With the arrival of our Princess and decorating her first-ever Christmas Tree.

Mele Kalikimaka! We glowingly feel like we're in Heaven, almost. And she will be in Maui for 2 weeks!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2011-12-14T23:53:00.005-10:00

3 more days and our Maui Christmas begins! The "Shaka" Princess arrives this Saturday
(Click on picture to play Video. Hannah calls us Nono and Nona aka Grandpa and Grandma)

Honolulu Marathon #4 Done!

2011-12-11T16:35:00.005-10:00

Also one of my 2011 New Year's resolutions. It's my direct assault on aging and it didn't work. I felt like 100 years old during and after the race! Bwhahaha It took me 6 hours 3 minutes to finish versus my goal of 5.5 hours because I got carried away with texting, tweeting, doing Facebook posts, and taking pictures during the run. (Not to mention 3 pee breaks behind bushes outside of the marathon route, local style). Next time I need to remember I was running a marathon instead of socializing in Facebook while punishing my legs.

Did I say next time? Yes I think I will run it again in 2012 and for sure I will turn off the internet on my iPhone during the race.

Approaching the finish line

And my awesome reward - a beautiful lei from Hannah! Maybe this will give me the desire to run the marathon every year.

She was trying to maintain some distance because I was sweatty. (Later she told me I need to brush my teeth aka bad breath!)

Ready For The Marathon!

2011-12-09T11:43:00.003-10:00

Final 2 mile run to finish off my 3 month Marathon Training but I made it a 1 hour prayer-walk at Keopuolani Park. I felt this urge to fellowship with the Lord and just thank Him so much for my blessings specially my family and my near-perfect health and physical condition for the Honolulu Marathon this coming Sunday.

My Christmas Perspective

2011-12-05T10:41:00.000-10:00

Rainbows of Waiehu

2011-11-11T00:11:00.003-10:00

Yesterday's spectacle from the scattered showers all over the island and the sun peeking in and out of the clouds creating these intense rainbows.

And a front seat view from our lanai (balcony)

Going The Distance, Almost

2011-11-07T19:42:00.010-10:00

I'm now at the peak of my Marathon Training for my fourth Honolulu Marathon this coming December 11. Only one more 18 miler and two 13 milers and the rest would probably feel like a "warm-up" run by then. Hopefully.

While doing my 20 mile (4 hours 13 minutes) run last Saturday, it occurred to me that the training program was not about running more miles but basically training my leg muscles to go the distance - the longer I run the more the legs get the burn for the extra miles. Since my last marathon in 2007, my regular runs were short distances of no more than 10 miles. So when I started this year's training last August 22nd, I was quite worried that it would be a huge struggle to even run 13 miles, considering that I'm now 66 years old.

But thank God for his blessing, last Saturday I actually felt strong up to 16 miles on my run but the last 4 miles were just brutal! So here's hoping that the remaining 119 miles that I have yet to run the next 30 days would fully strengthen my legs to get me to mile 26.2

Many runners say that the Marathon starts at mile 13. That is so true because at mile 13 your cardiovascular level should be at your training heart rate, not more, and that your legs should show "minimal" tiredness or you may not finish the race. Similarly, Mile 20 will also confirm if you trained enough. That's why some runners hit the "wall" at mile 20. In my 2007 marathon, I got hit with severe leg cramps at mile 20 but I was able to strangely get out of it by actually running the final 6.2 miles faster than the first 20 miles of the race. Unfortunately, it cost me a good 15 minutes off my goal while writhing in pain as I held on to a nearby tree.

Here's why I think I'm definitely not ready yet. When I got home following my 20 mile run last Saturday, guess what? I HAD SEVERE LEG CRAMPS!!!!!!!

Scaring the Crap Out of the Kids At Halloween

2011-10-31T17:44:00.000-10:00

No that wasn't me in there. I was going to wear the mask but it was too damn hot!

Taking A Nap Outside

2011-10-31T14:14:00.001-10:00

Haven't done this for a while. I think this is the first time I'm napping in the front garden. This is what I see before I slip into dreamland (Posted from my iPhone)

Today's Birdie Shot

2011-10-24T19:26:00.000-10:00

My backyard guest this morning as I also watched for 2 stray cats that might be waiting in the bushes eager for a big lunch.

100 Year Old Marathoner!

2011-10-18T14:12:00.000-10:00

There is hope for me yet. He ran his first Marathon at 86 and he finished his 8th marathon in Toronto last Sunday! I did my first at 56 and struggling big time training for my forthcoming 4th Honolulu Marathon in December.

He will be in my mind as inspiration when I do my 20 mile run in two weeks.

Hmmmmmmmmm........

2011-10-11T12:27:00.001-10:00

Assuming (and I hope) that Steve would make it there....

Balut Eating Contest!

2011-10-08T15:27:00.005-10:00

It's Fil-Am Heritage Festival at Maui Mall today and my favorite show was the "Balut" eating contest! After the contest I bought 10 of the leftovers so Evelyn and I can also have a "Balut Eating" contest later hahaha!

And my favorite candid shot. His Grandpa just told him he cannot join the contest because he is too young to eat balut yet!

And that's mwaa from another photoprapher's lens so I can be part of the photoshoot!

Aloha and Mahalo Steve Jobs!

2011-10-05T16:00:00.000-10:00

Today's Bible Study

2011-10-03T09:47:00.001-10:00

Marathon Training Update

2011-10-02T20:03:00.000-10:00

Well the Pre-marathon runs are out of the way. I completed 104 miles out of the 110 required. I pretty much breezed right through because these are my regular mileage during the first 8 months. I've also lost 25 lbs. this year and will probably lose another 10 lbs by December 11th and this lighter load will definitely help!

The next 30 days should be okay as well except that the numbers are really daunting. I still have to run 258 more miles for the next 60 days before race day.

This is the worst part of the training and it is at this point that I would really pray that my gout attacks will not happen. There was one year when I actually gave up two weeks before the marathon because my gout problems simply persisted past the Marathon race day.

Maui County Fair Parade 2011

2011-09-30T00:31:00.000-10:00

My favorite candid shots

Going Convertible, Philippine Style

2011-09-29T15:16:00.000-10:00

I took this picture just over a year ago in our last trip to the Philippines. I'm getting homesick again just looking at it. We have a trip planned for March 2012 but I missed the discount fares. They sold out very quickly.

G'Morning!

2011-09-26T08:44:00.003-10:00

Mr. Toad was waiting at our kitchen sink this morning to welcome back and remind Evelyn she is back in the islands from her 2 week trip in Vancouver/Vegas. This toad must have hopped in at one of the indoor potted plants that I took out during the house termite tenting last week. Either that or Mr. Toad could in fact be an enchanted "Prince" waiting for a kiss? Bwahahahaha

Going Macro Photography

2011-09-25T18:50:00.003-10:00

My very first Macro Photo-Shoot w/ my Tamron 90mm F2.8 Macro Di SP. I need to practice, practice, and practice. I had to shoot more than 100 shots to come out with this one keeper. Just discovered that in Macro photography you really need lots of patience!

Heaven Is For Real

2011-09-24T16:10:00.003-10:00

I'm always skeptical about books describing Heaven specially if they do not match the Bible's perspective. However, when Lynnette, my daughter in law, posted in Facebook about this book and recommended it with Don, I immediately ordered it.

Still with a probing approach, I was always looking for holes to poke at as I began reading the first few chapters. Later I found myself crying uncontrollably as I eagerly read the rest of the entire book. I finished it in one sitting because I couldn't put it down.

I post this because I think it is a divine inspiration for anyone that has doubts about Jesus, Heaven, and about dying. While reading the book, I can picture my Mom and Dad, my brother and sister, my favorite-motherly Auntie Dinang, and specially Marybeth, my daughter in law who endured a long and painful battle with cancer, all eager to welcome anyone in our family when Jesus calls us home. I know in my heart that they're all in Heaven having eternal glory with the Lord.

I'm going to order a few of this book to give away to my bible study group and my prison ministry, and to people in mourning.

Click here for more info at Amazon.com

Nuking TheTermites And Bugs!

2011-09-22T20:28:00.005-10:00

Yes termites are also part of paradise and they've been gnawing at the door frame of one of the side entry doors and have also hollowed out one siding already. The only way to get rid of them is to tent the whole house and do a full fumigation!

It's a two day process so I needed to stay at a hotel for one night even though a couple of my friends offered their home. Of course I was too cheap to pay $135 for a hotel room (and that's at the bargain-priced Maui Beach Hotel). I discovered this 4-unit Hotel just ahead of the Happy Valley neighborhood owned by a Filipino Travel Agency (Noble Travel) and they only charge $75. It's actually not bad - very clean, w/ AC, and free wi-fi! I would really recommend this place for anyone on a budget, I really do.

On a side note the girl at the Travel Agency that checked me in recognized me from Christ The King church and her first question was "did your wife kick you out of the house?" hahaha

Lighted window is my hotel room

Mamang's Birthday Today (In Heaven)

2011-09-07T13:34:00.001-10:00

We miss her

Auntie Maring

2011-09-06T11:46:00.002-10:00

Old video of three of my Aunties that were very much a part of my childhood days

Untitled from Ed Garces on Vimeo.

Lobster, Anyone?

2011-09-06T00:32:00.001-10:00

Lobster season in Hawaii started September 1st and I happen to know a Filipino lobster fisherman that spared me a couple off his full catch that he usually sells to the Grand Wailea Hotel. If it's a repeat of last two years, maybe I will have a few of these 3-pounders during the next few months.

Why a Mac?

2011-08-30T23:23:00.010-10:00

It appears that I have amassed a number of awesome Apple stuff lately - Macbook Air, iPad 2, Imac 27, and soon - the much rumored iPhone 5 that will be introduced in October (to replace my "old" iPhone 3GS). A friend of mine asked me, why a Mac, not a PC? Well, sorry, the picture below shows why. Hannah mo betah than Chai, her dog-brother hahaha!

Having said that, I'm also using this post to launch my new Photo Website. edgarces.smugmug.com Click here

Photo credit to Jay (Hannah's Dad) taken over year ago.

Photoshoot At Kanaha Beach

2011-08-26T15:29:00.002-10:00

Very brief photoshoot of windsurfers at Kanaha beach today to test my new 2X Teleconverter before patches of dark clouds with occasional showers threatened my camera gears. Not taking chances at all. I will try again tomorrow.

D300S and Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 with TC2-III at 400mm F8. (100% crop except for Outrigger image)

My New Laptop: Macbook Air by Apple

2011-08-23T01:10:00.008-10:00

I replaced my 5 year old Macbook with this stunning and latest 13" Macbook Air. Better yet it didn't cost me much as I sold my old Macbook at a good price, sold a Nikon lens I haven't used for a year, and a hefty 20% discount from Amazon.com! In my books, that's a freebie!!!

Marathon Training Starts Today!

2011-08-22T00:00:00.001-10:00

Well, it's time to get serious. Here's my running program for the December 11 Honolulu Marathon. It will be my fourth and then I'll do my last one when I turn 70 three years from now. Maybe......

Click on image below to enlarge

From Oceanview Estates

San Diego Grand Reunion

2011-08-19T00:43:00.010-10:00

Pista Sa Nayon (If you are using an iPad or prefer Full Screen view Click Here)

Gala Night (If you are using an iPad or prefer Full Screen view Click Here)

Picnic (If you are using an iPad or prefer Full Screen view Click Here)

Anniversary No. 43!

2011-08-17T07:29:00.002-10:00

To have and to hold, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, yada, yada, yada, to love and to cherish till death do us part. Thank you Lord! It's all for your glory as you intended a sacrament of marriage to be.

And celebrating our wonderful milestone in San Diego at the Grand Reunion

Aloha Mele (1999-2011)

2011-08-09T17:54:00.000-10:00

Mele's gone home too. Our hearts are broken. Her Vet advised that her stomach lining has cancer cells and has early onset of renal failure as well.

Aloha Bandit. Rest In Peace (1997-2011)

2011-08-08T14:11:00.000-10:00

We thank the Lord for blessing us with your unconditional friendship and love for 14 years. Mahalo Nui Loa.

Our Ohana is in deep mourning.

August!

2011-08-01T08:42:00.004-10:00

Another swift month and my attitude is reflected in Hannah's look. But of course July was made very special with Hannah's 10 day vacation in Maui.

Looking forward to a huge family and hometown (Tayug) reunion in San Diego this month

First House Fire In Our Oceanview Estates Neighborhood

2011-07-31T14:17:00.000-10:00

Thankfully they were able to extinguish the fire before it engulfed the house. It's 3 blocks away from our house at beachside.

This is my friend's beachside house below his. My friend trying to wet the back area of his main house.

Night Out With Hannah At Sansei

2011-07-21T09:22:00.000-10:00

Introducing Our New In-House Photographer

2011-07-17T00:59:00.002-10:00

Our two year old Hannah on her photo-shoot training with her willing model

Retired and enjoying my new passion

2011-07-14T13:43:00.003-10:00

Photo credit to Priya Wong taken during our Camera Club Waikamoi Forest Photoshoot. (Converted to B&W w/NIK Silver Efex Pro 2)

Counting Days Before Hannah's Trip To Maui!

2011-07-06T00:49:00.001-10:00

Our future Pentecostal Preacher in the works

Photo credits to Jay (Hannah's Dad)

Old Technology Is Still Brilliant

2011-07-04T14:40:00.000-10:00

No hi-tech stuff here. Just simple raw talent.

Credits to my cuz Carmelita DeGuzman for this YouTube script

Postcards From Manila

2011-06-24T19:48:00.005-10:00

Just sharing some selected candid shots of our niece's elegant wedding in Manila which I missed big time. (I am so looking forward to see the pro wedding album and videos!)

Our beautiful bride, Artessa with Mom & Dad, Dr. Art and Tessie Saldivar-Sali

Lynnette, Evelyn, and Don representing our family (Evelyn was also one of the Godmothers)

And praise the Lord for our missionary family Click here to follow their mission activity

My iPad 2 Review (My Father's Day Gift!)

2011-06-15T11:25:00.006-10:00

Evelyn noticed that I have been hugging her iPad too often and she finally blurted the magic words — "why don't you get one for Father's Day" Yeeeeeees! Did not waste any moment. After all who am I to argue with the boss??? So I rushed to pick one up at Walmart.

I have an iMac 27, a Macbook, and an iPhone; so what do I need an iPad for? Actually I did ask that question a few times before and I was pretty convinced that I did not need it, which is why I didn't get one when the iPad was launched a year ago.

When our ohana (family) gave Evelyn an iPad 2 for Mother's day last month and I was given the task of setting it up for her, oh my gosh, my perspective about this device completely changed. I could see why Apple has sold over 25 million of these in just 14 months and they predict even an exponential growth during the next few years. I believe it.

For people who use their computers exclusively for internet surfing, email, Facebook, Twitter, viewing photos, listening to music, watching videos and movies, games(!), and the occasional typing tasks, the iPad can do all that for you, PLUS more. There are literally thousands of apps that are offered at the App Store for anything that you can imagine and need and they're either free or not expensive either at 99 cents and $4.99 for the more sophisticated software. In other words the only things I've left out is when you're using your computer for business and in my case, for serious photo-editing jobs. In these cases, the iPad cannot replace the computer but still it can compliment it as many are doing already.

The first thing that convinced me is its ideal size and portability. Initially, I thought that maybe the screen size would be too small but surprisingly it becomes irrelevant after you switch it on because of its usefulness and convenience. Yes you simply press a button and the iPad is instantly ready for use. Try that with a computer. I'm not even going to praise it for its portability but it just feels right in your hands that it seems natural to bring it with you all over the place, inside and outside of the house.

Ever since we got an iPad in the house over a month ago, I haven't used my laptop when I go out to attend weekly meetings, my bible study, or my weekly visits at Krispy Kreme or Starbucks. The iPad has effectively filled that need. My iPhone which I also used for mobile internet/email/Facebook, etc. is now simply used almost exclusively as a phone only and for music and podcast when I do my runs and gym workouts. The iPad has completely changed that.

Is the iPad for you? Maybe not but all I can say is that if you are planning to buy a computer/laptop in the near future, consider the iPad and see if it is a good option. For one thing, it's a lot cheaper than a laptop or desktop computer!

As for me and my house, well a little early but "Happy Father's Day" to me! Mahalo Princess!

Here I Am Lord

2011-06-05T16:50:00.003-10:00

Today's Sunday message by Father Efren at Christ The King Church is about "The Great Commission" Jesus' final words to his disciples (and us) before he ascended to Heaven:

"Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:18-20)

It was specially a touching homily for us because today Don and Lynette began their new journey to exclusively serve the Lord in Manila, Philippines. They have placed their promising careers on hold and left for the Philippines yesterday and will live there for a year.

We will miss them so much but we will always be with them in our prayers. Maybe, someday soon we will also answer the Lord's call to join them in Manila.

Follow their Ministry at their website WWW.garcesunplugged.com

Why Filipinos Are Top of the Heap!

2011-06-02T16:21:00.000-10:00

An office manager at Wal-Mart was given the task of hiring an individual to fill a job opening. After sorting through a stack of resumes he found four people who were equally qualified -- an American, a Russian, an Australian, and a Filipino... He decided to call the four in and ask them only one question. Their answer would determine who of them would get the job.

The day came and as the four sat around the conference room table the interviewer asked, 'What is the fastest thing you know?'

Dave, the American, replied, 'A THOUGHT. It just pops into your head. There's no warning that it's on the way; it's just there. A thought is the fastest thing I know of.'

'That's very good!' replied the interviewer.

'And now you sir?' he asked Vladimir, the Russian.

'Hmm.... let me see. A blink! It comes and goes and you don't know that it ever happened. A BLINK is the fastest thing I know.

''Excellent!' said the interviewer. 'The blink of an eye... that's a very popular cliche for speed.'

He then turned to George, the Australian, who was contemplating his reply.

'Well, out at my dad's ranch, you step out of the house and on the wall there's a light switch. When you flip that switch, way out across the pasture the light in the barn comes on. Yep, TURNING ON A LIGHT is the fastest thing I can think of.'

The interviewer was very impressed with the third answer and thought he had found his man. 'It's hard to beat the speed of light' he said.

Turning now to Eleuterio, the Filipino, the fourth and final man, the interviewer posed the same question.

Eleuterio replied, 'Apter herring da 3 preybyus ansers sir, et's ob yus to me dat the fastest thing is Diarrhea.'

'WHAT!?' said the interviewer, stunned by the response. The others were already giggling in their seats...

'Oh, I can expleyn sir.' said Eleuterio.

'You see, sir, da ader day my tummy was peeling bad and so I run so fast to the Toilet, but before I could

THINK,

BLINK, or

TURN ON THE LIGHT,

Putris, sir, I had alreydi shit in my pants!'

Eleuterio is now the new 'Greeter' at Wal-Mart.

Credits to my cousin Carmelita who emails me these funnies all the time!

Hannah's Birthday Party No. 2

2011-05-25T01:02:00.000-10:00

Some of my favorite shots

Happy Birthday Hannah!

2011-05-21T00:01:00.000-10:00

Our granddaughter is 2 years old today!

MAYBE?

2011-05-15T12:04:00.002-10:00

I think I know someone that thinks this way as I get reminded of my pending and ridiculously overdue "projects" - garage cleanup, house painting, kitchen makeover...etc.. :-)

Credits to Pat Bigornia who emailed me these winners

Did We Ever Tell You We Have A Grandaughter?

2011-05-02T17:20:00.000-10:00

She will be two years old in 19 days. Time flies and we love it

negotiating with Hannah from Jay Garces on Vimeo.

Remembering The Cross

2011-04-23T19:32:00.001-10:00

"Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, as the Scriptures said" (1Corinthians 15:3-4)

Welcoming Ray And His Family To Maui

2011-04-20T00:41:00.002-10:00

Our nephew, Ray Lim (Manong Rudy and Manang Lolit's son) and his wife, Trang with their special little angel, dropped by for dinner today!

And of course blessing us with this little angel to remind us of our Hannah

God's Glory In The Morning

2011-04-15T07:22:00.001-10:00

A magnificent sunrise this morning from our lanai, a real "Oh my God" moment. Thank you Lord!

Click here for larger picture

The Price Of Technology!

2011-04-14T14:19:00.003-10:00

Four remotes when all you want to do is watch TV! Evelyn stopped talking to me when she saw these remotes as she settled in the couch to watch her "Dancing With The Stars" show in surround sound. The screen went blank....with the first remote she touched. Hahaha!

Can't blame her. I get totally perplexed every now and then each time I picked up the wrong device. There is a way to sync all four into just one remote but after a couple of hours of following the endless prompts (can you believe that?) the newly "synchronized" remote was even more complicated!!!!!!

I am hoping that Apple will someday get involved in this business so they can simplify things like the way they revolutionized the smartphones with the iPhone. This complexed set up has not changed since the intro of the VCR ages ago.!

You Think You're Tough?

2011-04-02T15:53:00.001-10:00

Two days ago, right here in Maui at Jaws! (no I did not shoot this but I wish I was there and I will the next couple of months)

Click here for my pictures from last year's swells

DAY 90 REPORT CARD - 2011 Goal: Special Diet/Weight Loss

2011-03-31T09:47:00.007-10:00

So far I have lost 12 pounds since January 1st. I need to lose 8 more by August 1st when I start my pre-marathon training runs

I've lost 4 inches off my waist! This is actually the most rewarding and exciting part of all. My waistline is now the same as in the late 80's at 29'' which explains why all my Armani Suits are again in perfect fit and fully wearable. They were fairly new when we moved to Maui and luckily they're still in style. It felt good to wear one of them at a wedding we attended in San Diego three weeks ago. You have to live in Hawaii to understand why this is such a big deal - only Attorneys and Morticians wear suits regularly in the islands! Hahaha (And why not; Attorneys and Morticians both charge high hourly rates and actually have similar work,… just kidding!!!!)

Another cornerstone of this goal is also my "Paleo" diet which I continue to enjoy: no rice, no potatoes, no bread, (replaced w/vegetable salad and sweet potatoes), and no fried foods. I'm so blessed that Evelyn is also on this diet. Yes, we still eat meat, mostly grilled and also continue to enjoy my daily glass of wine or beer with dinner. No, I do not miss eating rice at all, which is odd for a full-blooded Filipino "senior".

I have faithfully maintained my enhanced 2011 exercise regimen - running four times weekly, weight training at the gym twice a week, and one rest-day.

So life goes on! My next update will be early June before we fly to the Philippines for another big wedding and probably pig out on those awesome Pinoy dishes!!!! That will be a challenge...I will be praying a lot to stick with my Paleo diet that's for sure.

Click here for my previous post on this Diet/Goal and why I'm a little bit crazy about all this.

Click here for more info about Paleo Diet

Enjoying Our New Toy

2011-03-26T13:31:00.006-10:00

We're very much a late-comer to the HDTV craze and I'm glad we held on to our 23" Samsung TV and our bulky Sony Trinitron 36" for quite a while. The new sets are now more energy-efficient, more hi-tech, and most of all a lot cheaper than even those that were introduced only a year ago. We probably saved more than $1,000 by waiting up (because we were broke, hahaha!)

Below is our new Sony Bravia 55" LED 3D HDTV hooked up with the latest device from Apple called AppleTV which wirelessly streams files from my iMac27 computer located downstairs. In other words, if we want to show photos (specially Hannah's pics as shown below), videos, movies, or listen to music that are in my computer, iPhone, iPad, or any laptop that are using our router, I can almost instantly stream them to our TV with just a few clicks on the remote.

Don't you love technology?

Blessed Are The Grandparents For They Shall Play With Little Angels!

2011-03-20T15:13:00.010-10:00

Hannah has gone back to Honolulu after her family house-sit our home for more than a week. We had at least 4 days with her but she was a little under the weather for a few days when we got back from San Diego. On her last day, we had a great time with her and she showed us we couldn't keep up with her despite being in top shape physically. No kidding.

We miss her already, specially her shrieking laugh.

Below are my favorite shots. (All taken with my new pro lens: Nikon 17-55mm f2.8 and loving it!)

Lola, don't mess with me..........

The heart of God through the eyes of a child

Helping Lolo dry out the Lanai after a sudden burst of rain went through the open windows

And playtime with her first-ever ball despite her slight fever!

Snakes And Reptiles At San Diego Zoo

2011-03-18T01:15:00.001-10:00

Click here for larger pictures

Having A Great Time In Beautiful San Diego

2011-03-12T08:52:00.001-10:00

The Midway (or the "Wish You Were Here" shot)

Bob Hope Naval Memorial

Miss Graffiti Is Arriving Tomorrow!

2011-03-08T23:09:00.000-10:00

I think I could use her help when I paint the house next month

My Jag is 20 years old today

2011-03-08T18:11:00.002-10:00

1991 XJS and aging gracefully,..........like us!

Behold The Crayon Queen

2011-03-03T14:45:00.000-10:00

And she is arriving in Maui this Wednesday to house-sit while we are in San Diego. I better double check the crayons in her room to make sure they're indeed washable!

Golf, Anyone?

2011-03-01T13:22:00.001-10:00

I think I'm getting the itch to take up Golfing again. Last time I hit a golf ball was in January 11, 2007 and then I lost interest. Yes I know that's really strange but I was just a beginner anyway so there was no love lost there. I think I'm going to take lessons again just to make sure.

I was hitting balls at the driving range at Waiehu Golf Course this morning and I kind of enjoyed it, specially that I was nailing them balls at 150 yards with my 7 iron, surprisingly. Here's another plus - the golf course is only a five minute drive from our house. Hmmm...maybe another passion in the making.

Celebrating Evelyn's Birthday

2011-02-28T22:59:00.000-10:00

At Sansei, our favorite Japanese Restaurant and probably the best in Maui, for Evelyn's birthday. With our best friends - Ron and Teri

Update from our Missionary Family

2011-02-28T17:52:00.001-10:00

We just wanted to share Don and Lynnette's (our kids) fund-raising video for their upcoming year-long mission call in the Philippines. They do make us smile with pride and we thank God for blessing them with the heart of an apostle. We also think they are absolutely crazy (and funny) but it's all for God's glory.

Please join us in our prayers that God will continue to keep their desire to serve him and share the gospel at the Orphanage that they will be working at starting this coming June.

Sunday Chuckles

2011-02-27T14:08:00.000-10:00

"Happiness is something you decide on ahead of time"

HOLY HUMOR

**A father was approached by his small son who told him proudly, "I know what
the Bible means!"His father smiled and replied, "What do you mean, you 'know' what the Bible
means?
The son replied, "I do know!"
"Okay," said his father. "What does the Bible mean?"
"That's easy, Daddy..." the young boy replied excitedly," It stands for 'Basic
Information Before Leaving Earth.' (This one is my favorite)
=======

There was a very gracious lady who was mailing an old family Bible to her
brother in another part of the country.
"Is there anything breakable in here?" asked the postal clerk.
"Only the Ten Commandments." answered the lady.

========

"Somebody has said there are only two kinds of people in the world. There are
those who wake up in the morning and say, "Good morning, Lord," and there are
those who wake up in the morning and say, "Good Lord, it's morning."

========

A minister parked his car in a no-parking zone in a large city because he was
short of time and couldn't find a space with a meter.
Then he put a note under the windshield wiper that read: "I have circled the
block 10 times. If I don't park here, I'll miss my appointment. Forgive us our
trespasses."When he returned, he found a citation from a police officer along with this
note "I've circled this block for 10 years. If I don't give you a ticket I'll
lose my job. Lead us not into temptation."

========

There is the story of a pastor who got up one Sunday and announced to his
congregation: "I have good news and bad news. The good news is, we have enough
money to pay for our new building program. The bad news is, it's still out
there in your pockets."
========

While driving in Pennsylvania , a family caught up to an Amish carriage. The
owner of the carriage obviously had a sense of humor, because attached to the
back of the carriage was a hand printed sign... "Energy efficient vehicle: Runs
on oats and grass. Caution: Do not step in exhaust."

========

A Sunday School teacher began her lesson with a question, "Boys and girls,
what do we know about God?"
A hand shot up in the air. "He is an artist!" said the kindergarten boy.
"Really? How do you know?" the teacher asked.
"You know - Our Father, who does art in Heaven... "

========

A minister waited in line to have his car filled with gas just before a long
holiday weekend. The attendant worked quickly, but there were many cars ahead
of him. Finally, the attendant motioned him toward a vacant pump.
"Reverend," said the young man, "I'm so sorry about the delay. It seems as if
everyone waits until the last minute to get ready for a long trip."
The minister chuckled, "I know what you mean. It's the same in my business."
========

People want the front of the bus, the back of the church, and the center of
attention.
========

Sunday after church, a Mom asked her very young daughter what the lesson was
about.
The daughter answered, "Don't be scared, you'll get your quilt."
Needless to say, the Mom was perplexed. Later in the day, the pastor stopped by
for tea and the Mom asked him what that morning's Sunday school lesson was
about.
He said "Be not afraid, thy comforter is coming."

========

The minister was preoccupied with thoughts of how he was going to ask the
congregation to come up with more money than they were expecting for repairs to
the church building. Therefore, he was annoyed to find that the regular
organist was sick and a substitute had been brought in at the last minute. The
substitute wanted to know what to play.
"Here's a copy of the service," he said impatiently. "But, you'll have to
think of something to play after I make the announcement about the finances."
During the service, the minister paused and said, "Brothers and Sisters, we are
in great difficulty; the roof repairs cost twice as much as we expected and we
need $4,000 more. Any of you who can pledge $100 or more, please stand up."
At that moment, the substitute organist played "The Star Spangled Banner."And that is how the substitute became the regular organist!
=========

Give me a sense of humor, Lord,
Give me the grace to see a joke,
To get some humor out of life,
And pass it on to other folk!

Hiking Waihe'e Ridge

2011-02-20T00:46:00.002-10:00

If you live in Maui or vacationing here and love to hike, I highly recommend this trail

Click here for more pictures

Smile, There's A Rainbow Out There

2011-02-17T22:17:00.003-10:00

At our Bible Study group tonight we concluded the story of Noah with a brief dialogue about rainbows, specially so because in Hawaii we see them many times that it's so easy to take them for granted.

When you're looking at a rainbow, in that same moment, God is looking at it too. So next time you see one, smile and whisper a prayer from the heart. He knows that you're also thinking about him as he is thinking about you.

¹² And God said, “This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: ¹³ I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. ¹⁴ Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, ¹⁵ I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. ¹⁶ Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.”

¹⁷ So God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant I have established between me and all life on the earth.” (Genesis 9:12-17 NIV)

From our balcony taken a few years ago. Every now and then God blesses us with his spectacular rainbow display.

Fountain Of Youth?

2011-02-15T12:01:00.004-10:00

I think it's the smelly sweat in my running shoes! Evelyn and I started running since 1987 and still run today with 3 Honolulu Marathons behind us. I was doing some "math" on our running time and I was amazed at the numbers. We usually run at least 1,000 miles a year which means that we have ran over 23,000 miles from 1987-2010!

This is my 18 month old running shoes. I usually replace it every year so this one is overdue for replacement and I ordered one today for $129 (Brooks Beast) I remember the first time I purchased our first top-of-the-line running shoes, they were only $50!

Bayan Ko Rendered By a Korean Group

2011-02-07T09:33:00.000-10:00

I always cry when I hear this song. I guess I'm still 100% Filipino despite my dual American-Canadian citizenships.

My Fake Rolex Is Still Working!

2011-02-02T18:26:00.005-10:00

My fake Rolex is now 5 years old and it still works! In 2006 when I told a wealthy client that I was going home to the Philippines, he asked me to buy him two fake rolex watches. I asked him what for, knowing the he could well afford a real one or maybe two - one for him and one for his wife. He said one is for him and the other he is giving it to his employee who chauffeurs his rental Rolls Royce for weddings. He has three RR Silver Shadows that he rents out for weddings and special occasions.

So what the heck I bought one for myself too because they looked so authentic. It's even got the green back w/a serial number and the engraved Rolex logo on the bracelet! I can't remember how much but I'm sure they were no more than $100. When I came back to Maui I took mine to Ben Bridge Jewellers to show it to the manager (who is a friend of mine) and we compared it with the real ones - hard to tell the difference except that the real ones are heavier. He has been trying to sell me the real one for a discounted price of over $5,000.

I rarely wear mine nowadays so I keep it in it's self-winder case. (Yes, it also has a chronometer like the real Rolex! It's gotta be worn to keep it working). Four months ago I attended a bible study group and I was sitting next to another wealthy guy who was wearing a Rolex. I was wearing my favorite Timex Ironman watch and we got talking about expensive watches. I told him I have a fake Rolex at home because I couldn't afford a real one and guess what he said - his Rolex is also fake!!! Bwahahahaha!

Report Card: re 2011 Special Diet/Weight Loss Goal

2011-01-29T16:32:00.004-10:00

30 days later with my first ever special diet, and so far:

Lost 6 pounds!
Lost 1 inch off my waist (my belt is more than one notch tighter!)
I easily reduced the volume of my meals. Only took 2 weeks to train my stomach to take in less.
Ran every other day, and did weight training at the 24 Hour Fitness Gym in between. In other words, I cross-trained everyday. Last time I did a regimen like this was when I was training for triathlon in Toronto in 1989. Twenty two years later, I guess I still have the discipline.
I don't miss eating rice at all. I was really surprised; instead I ate sweet potato (kamote) and salad w/ grilled meat, no fried foods (even that I also don't miss)
Rewards? Yes 2 Krispy Kreme doughnuts w/black coffee every week!!!!!!!!!! I enjoy studying for my bible study group at my favorite corner table there every Thursday. After all, I think I consume way below 1800 calories daily anyway.

Honestly, I don't feel like I am on a special diet at all because I'm actually enjoying the food. Of course this was made easy with Evelyn's great and creative cooking and awesome salads. Mahalo Princess! She also lost at least 4 pounds.

Looks like I may not go back to eating rice again, but......we will be vacationing in the Philippines for 3 weeks in June. That will be a real challenge! (Hmmm...garlic fried rice, fried eggs, and tosino, with daing or langonisa breakfasts..oooooooooh, Chow-King halo halo - more ooooh)

The goal is to lose 20 lbs. by August when I start my pre-marathon training but I suspect I will nail this one by May for sure. (I planned on running my 4th Honolulu Marathon on December 11th) Already I can feel the difference when I run, specially my recovery rate and I think it's not the weight loss but because of the more nutritious and healthy diet combined with a much improved upper body strength.

Why am I doing this? Well I noticed that after my last Honolulu Marathon in December 2007 I was slowly gaining weight even though I have maintained my running program, and eating the same old style Filipino diet for more than 65 years. Evelyn and I have been running since 1987 and still run regularly today. My resting heart rate is at 45-48 beats per minute (average person = 70-75 beats per minute) so I think I could say I'm in good shape as a 66 year old senior citizen, but still gaining weight!

By 2009 and through the end of 2010, my weight started to balloon at 150 from 130 pounds in 2007. I actually peaked at 155 but I added more speed runs at the tracks and it seemed to work. However, I noticed that my weight pretty much hovered at 150-152 pounds and this additional weight had exclusively settled around my waist. I started to wear pants that have elastic waistbands as I couldn't wear most of my belts anymore and would also conveniently make room for more waistline expansion, specially after a meal! That was the kicker as I also noticed I haven't tucked in my shirts for the past three years..bwahahahaha. That......cannot.......continue.

No Waves, No Wind, No Mo Nothing!

2011-01-25T18:58:00.008-10:00

So I parked myself at Kanaha Beach as I usually do on my birthdays, just to be alone and enjoy a quiet time with the Lord. The place is almost empty but I did have a little bit of distraction/entertainment...

On a normal windy day, this part of Kanaha Beach is usually swarming with windsurfers

Except beginner Windsurfers. (I've been there in that same area 20 years ago)

Did I say no wind today?

oops.......told you there's no wind!

Hannah In My Mind

2011-01-23T19:35:00.003-10:00

Saw this picture in Jay's blog I just have to have it on mine too.

Someday we will run the Honolulu Marathon with her

Playing Tourist At Kaanapali Resort

2011-01-22T20:56:00.003-10:00

Meeting up with special friends (Warren and Beverly) from Vancouver at Kaanapali Beach Resort

And with Baby David (as in King David "the man after God's own heart")

And my favorite shots of the beach

Click here for more Kaanapali Beach pictures

Today's Windsurfers At Hookipa

2011-01-22T01:03:00.000-10:00

Hawaiian (Pacific) Spiny Lobster Dinner Tonight

2011-01-16T00:05:00.002-10:00

My lobster fisherman contact finally decided to spare me some of his catch. I've been trying to get some from him the whole month of December but this time he got me some real huge ones! They're almost 5 lbs. each and I could only finish half of the tail tonight. (The tail meat actually extends all the way to half of its head.)

Maui Storm

2011-01-13T16:26:00.001-10:00

Last night we were pummeled by heavy rain and gusty winds mixed with lightning and thunder. South Maui was hit worst and early this morning, some said that many parts of North and South Kihei road was like a river. At noon today I was at the area of Kalama Park (which was still about ankle deep in water) and there was mud all over even across the road. Below are a parking area of a tourist favorite shopping area and in front of a restaurant. No problems in our area in Waiehu, just Bandit, our papillon dog, who was shaking like a leaf almost all night because thunder, lightning, and firecrackers freak him out.

Paddle Boarding

2011-01-10T10:44:00.000-10:00

On my list to try in 2011

Special Sunday Dinner

2011-01-09T22:59:00.009-10:00

I hope to run my 4th Honolulu Marathon on December 11th as one of my 2011 goals but I need to shed 20 lbs. by August when I start my pre-marathon training. I cannot believe I have gained 20 lbs. in 2009-2010 even though I didn't change my lifestyle, my diet, and faithfully kept my running program to at least 3 times weekly. What gives? So this year I have to do some radical changes in my diet - no fried foods, no rice, no bread, no potatoes, and watch the sugar (cut down on Krispy Kreme doughnuts!!!!). I'm also going radical with weight training to compliment my regular runs. (Good upper body strength actually helps marathon runners, in case you don't know.)

Well, so far, I lost 2 lbs. since January 1st and I seem to NOT miss the rice which I thought might be the biggest hurdle with this diet. It might be as easy as when I gave up coffee two years ago. It was easier than I thought.

So here's tonight's dinner - barbecued italian chicken sausage (grilled salmon for Evelyn), sweet potato (kamote!), and an awesome salad with our favorite French red wine. Wish me luck and yes prayers will definitely work too :-)

Photo-Shoot At Hookipa Beach Today

2011-01-08T17:57:00.002-10:00

I caught the action when this surfer got creamed by a huge wave and literally split his board in two. Thank God he was okay.

Click here for more pictures

And a couple more pro surfers

How Great Is Our God

2011-01-08T00:53:00.000-10:00

A message about Genesis 1 "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (about 30 minutes)

Our Missionaries Are All Set For God's Calling

2011-01-01T18:39:00.001-10:00

Don and Lynnette Garces

Hauoli Makahiki Hou Happy New Year

2010-12-31T09:55:00.000-10:00

2010 went so fast it's scary. It seems that every year is faster than the previous. So here's a wish that 2011 will be a little bit slower..............pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease!

Our Fondest Aloha To Hannah

2010-12-31T01:07:00.002-10:00

13 days with Hannah went so fast but nonetheless a wonderful time. Today Hannah, Dawn, and Jay return home to Oahu and left a few hundred clicks from my Nikon D300S. These three are my favs of the two beautiful Princesses in my life.

And of course with the apo lakay!

And Yet Another Christmas Greetings

2010-12-29T16:10:00.000-10:00

Christmas Day Surfers

2010-12-26T22:27:00.003-10:00

What a way to spend Christmas Day if you are a surfer, or even a spectator, specially if you have a Nikon DSLR in your hand! At the Kahului Harbor in one of those regular winter swells.

Click here for more pictures

Christmas Day In Our Ohaha

2010-12-26T01:48:00.000-10:00

Christmas Family Dinner (Don and Lynnette absent from picture)

Click Here For More Pictures

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T07:30:00.001-10:00

Jesus said, "I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly" John 10:10b (NAB)

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2010-12-24T10:21:00.002-10:00

Maligayang Pasko, Mele Kalikimaka, Milikalitmat (Mt. Province)

Here's some music to make you homesick and kick-start your plans for 2011 Philippine vacation!

My Favorite Christmas Song

2010-12-20T21:00:00.004-10:00

Holy Night Hawaiian Style by Willie K

If you're a Christian, check out the lyrics of this beautiful song. It's so relevant to the weary world that we live in today. It's not even supposed to be Christmas anymore, simply and intentionally.....happy holidays. Pardon my french but that really sucks big time

or this version

Starting Cross-Fit Training Early

2010-12-20T17:21:00.000-10:00

Hannah mimicking her cross-fit Dad

The Queen Is Back And Ready To Rule Her Domain

2010-12-19T17:43:00.001-10:00

Hannah is back in Maui for Christmas!

Christmas Lanterns in Maui

2010-12-17T20:31:00.000-10:00

Three of my favorites at the Philippine Lantern Festival/Contest

This one is covered with ipil leaves

Our Top 2 Favorite Views From Our Balcony

2010-12-10T10:23:00.001-10:00

Reminds me of God's promise to Noah "I am giving you a sign of my permanent promise to you and to all the earth. When I send clouds over the earth, the rainbow will be seen in the clouds, and I will remember my covenant with you and with everything that lives. Never again will there be a flood that will destroy all life." Genesis 9:12-15