Another Broken 100!

I say 'another' as Wayne's World showed his stuff last week. This one goes to MSO. He managed to accomplish the task at Mililani Golf Club through all the harassing and trash talk between him and my sis. He handled the pressure very well and came out with the victory over her and everyone else in our group.

The day started out cloudy with some light showers, but ended with the sun and a bogey on the last par 5 hole (for me, that's happiness when you're playing like crap). It was great golf to see and MSO amazingly didn't say it was because he had his own cart and I wasn't with him.

TV and Children

Since I've become a parent, I've experienced a diminishing connection to TV and movies. Actually, I shouldn't associate that too much with being a parent 'cause it was before that when the luxury to lay down on the couch (an actual couch and not the floor that I have so become accustomed to now since we don't have one) and watch TV became constricted. The motivation to complete my degree with a high GPA had taken precedence over watching anything, including Wentworth. Anyways, the reduced connection is not a bad thing...Consider MSO and his addiction to TV. MSO and I had agreed that we didn't want baby to watch TV until he's older. We had heard and read that it's bad for the developing brain. Now turn to these two articles:

Study: More parents use TV as an electronic babysitter
Parents Making Use of TV Despite Risks

It's crazy to read that a third of families leave the TV on nearly all the time and young children have TVs in their own rooms. I understand that it is pretty unrealistic to not have your child watch TV as our current sitter uses the TV a lot, but as the first article says, it is scary to see children when they are in front of the TV. They do appear transfixed and sucked in...Just like MSO. Research hasn't really focused on developmental outcomes for children under three so it's not known if educational TV for such children is beneficial. Probably moderation, supervision, and supplementation are key.

Customer Service...A *@#!$% Forgotten Experience

I'm not a great traveler of the world, but what I saw on this last trip at the airports has made me almost glad that I'm not. It started when we arrived at our hometown airport and found that you no longer check in with a person but rather a machine which, by the way, required a credit card for each person checking in. We had wanted to upgrade or change our seats to make our long journey to the Empire State a little more comfortable. MSO started to ask one of the workers there about how he could go about this, but she just kept saying "Check in" while pointing to the very inviting machine. Once we checked in with Mr. Machine, she then told us that we should have tried in the morning to get our seats changed. Nice. We then discovered that baby should have gotten a boarding pass as well. I chided to MSO about not finding this out ahead of time, but he said he had spoken to three different agents over the phone and none of them informed him that we needed one. Sorry, my bad.
To add to our wonderful start, we decided to "gate-check" our stroller which may have been a mistake. The worker there asked us if we were going beyond the first stop, ORD, and we said 'Yes.' We were never told that we had to "gate-check" our stroller at each stop. As a result of this lack of information, the much needed stroller got a much delayed arrival. This stroller also got damaged on its way back home and was left out on the sidewalk outside the gate area with other strollers and walkers 'cause they were going to catch the Wiki Wiki shuttle. Yeah. Don't know why our airport (or is it the airline?) places all the strollers and walkers outside where anyone can just take it, but that's what happened.
Yet another big kick in our asses while we're down was the fact that baby's car seat got lost en route to our destination. The lovely airline baggage claim service person (yes, one person for a long line) was not so lovely in the personality kind of sense. Just what you need is to deal with an unfriendly person after a long, uncomfortable plane ride. We weren't going to pay $9 a day to the car rental company for a car seat after lugging our own seat, so the airlines "graciously" provided a loaner seat. Imagine having a vehicle with LATCH capability and not being able to use it because the seat does not have the strap to utilize that capability. Now imagine our disappointment, struggle, and frowned faces.
We eventually did get our car seat the next day at the hotel although it was by sheer chance that we found out that it had been delivered. We were leaving to go out and the hotel clerk asked us if we knew that our car seat was there. We said 'No' as the airline was supposed to have called MSO but of course didn't. Bastards. Car seat got installed, loaner got kicked to the curb, and off we went.
We also made a shocking discover that airlines no longer provide meals. You have to buy it for $5! Another airline actually charged $1 for the nuts! That's just crazy.
Of course the forgotten experience of adequate customer service is not only at airports. Seems as if many places you go to, including your childhood McDonald's, you are bound to go away with a feeling of anger, disappointment, irritability, etc.
Where has your worst customer service experience occurred?

Multitasking Woes

"I can only do one thing at a time." That was a statement MSO told me recently. What is it with his inability to multitask? Watching TV mesmerizes him to the point that he completely stops what he's doing and doesn't hear or see just about anything that's around him, including of course, me. That's all fine and dandy that he's enjoying one of the intriguing playoff games, discovering whatever it may be on the Discovery Channel, gaining a glimpse into the past through the History Channel, getting in touch with his feminine side with TLC, or even hoping he can be like Norm Abrams on HGTV. But, many a women are able to cook, clean, and take care of the baby without saying "I can only do one thing at a time." Now don't get upset guys. I only say that because I can only remember one thing - that MSO cannot multitask.

Hostile and Abusive Mascots

Chief Illiniwek was placed on a list of "hostile and abusive" mascots and that has made Illinois ineligible to host postseason athlethic tournaments. North Dakota and Indiana University of Pennsylvania are also on this hot list. It's very sad when there has to be an NCAA executive committee to monitor mascots of universites and colleges. There seems to be a thin line when dealing with symbols of culture, race, or ethnicity, and how they're being portrayed and used. Maybe people can take out their anger and frustrations on Chad Ellis. Who wouldn't?!

Second Crock-Pot Meal

I finally got around to making another meal in our Crock-Pot which started collecting dust on its lid. It has been a little over a month since our first one. This time around it was Ravioli Stew. This one was less work than the first one. It may not look that appealing as let's say the can of Starbucks iced coffee, but it was really good. The recipe for the Stew was obtained from our 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Recipes, 200 Recipes for Memorable Meals book. I think it will be memorable and maybe even MSO can make it. Additional ingredients can be added, but can you guess what the 3 ingredients are for this simple recipe?

Pet Expo

And while we're on events from the Pets Event Calendar, there is a Pet Expo on May 13-14, 1000-1600 at the Blaisdell Center for free. Looking at this article regarding last year's Hawaii Pet Expo, it appears pets are able to go and take a look at the booths and exhibits as well. Wayne's World can take his cutie and get some treats and toys for her. And if Phoebe is over her case of the 'd', maybe she can go as well.

Be Kind to Animals

According to the Pets Event Calendar, May 7-13 is Be Kind to Animals Week. If you ask me, I'd say it should be Be Kind to Animals Always. No week, no day, but always. Unless, of course, they are attacking or causing you harm in some way. Hmm, but there are those times when you want to hunt down those birds that pooped on your car. Birds are not animals right? Just kidding. I actually tell the birds to get out of the way when I'm driving and they're in my path. Like they can really hear me. Who's stupid now? Yes, that would be me 'cause I don't even know what the true definition of animal is. Yeah, you see a dog, or a cow, or a horse, and know they are animals. But I'm no Jack Hanna, Old MacDonald, or Farmer Tad so I looked it up. Here it is courtesy of Merriam-Webster:

Main Entry: an·i·mal
Pronunciation: 'a-n&-m&l
Function: noun
Etymology: Latin, from animale, neuter of animalis animate, from anima soul -- more at ANIMATE
1 : any of a kingdom (Animalia) of living things including many-celled organisms and often many of the single-celled ones (as protozoans) that typically differ from plants in having cells without cellulose walls, in lacking chlorophyll and the capacity for photosynthesis, in requiring more complex food materials (as proteins), in being organized to a greater degree of complexity, and in having the capacity for spontaneous movement and rapid motor responses to stimulation
2 a : one of the lower animals as distinguished from human beings b : MAMMAL; broadly : VERTEBRATE
3 : a human being considered chiefly as physical or nonrational; also : this nature
4 : a person with a particular interest or aptitude (a political animal)
5 : MATTER, THING (the theater...is an entirely different animal --Arthur Miller); also : CREATURE 1c

Hey so during the week of May 7-13 we also have to be kind to humans that are "nonrational" as well. You probably know a lot.

Last Day of April 2006

Yesterday was an event-filled day that started with KAM's 1st Birthday Party. She looked oh-so-cute in her pretty dress and sandals (yes, she's walking already!). It was an Asian theme with colors of pink and red. Food was plentiful as were the children all around.


There was magic courtesy of Glen Bailey





and his little (and a few big) helpers





with one turning into a rabbit right before our eyes.

Parents K & K didn't look stressed, and if they were, they did a great job of not showing it. Cheers to both of you and all your helpers for a great party.

Next up was one of SW's fundraisers for the 808 Basketball Club. There was entertainment, food (again!), and raffle prizes.


Where's my iPod nano? There seemed to be a buzz about winning this prize which was suppposed to be given out in the last hour. We left about the last hour but I think you didn't have to be present to win.

Finally, MSO had his weekly basketball game. It was a rough one as he came home looking really dejected and in pain. He pulled something and they lost 12-53. Yes, you read that right. I didn't go and I'm sorry to say that I'm glad I didn't as that is a damn whoopin'. Maybe they'll get a 'W' next game.

More Restroom Observations

Bad enough I need to wake up really early, but now the restroom at T Land is bad as you can tell by the evidence. What you can't get from the evidence is how bad it can smell as well. Not so much a men's restroom kind of smell (come on guys, you know what I'm talkin' 'bout), but an almost sewer-like smell in the stalls. I've already been told to bring in my own water to drink.

One day there was a sign on the door of a stall that said it was Out of Order. Okay, that's fine. But while in the other stall, it smelled even more. Curiosity as to why it was sooo stank got the best of me and I took a risky peek to find that it was full of you-know-what. Talk about gross!!! There has gotta be some kind of Department of Health issue when the toilet sometimes does not flush (because "there is a problem with the flushing") and fecal matter is just left in the toilet like that.

Sometimes when I go to restrooms, I think of George Constanza. Wasn't there an episode where George claims to know where the best public restrooms are in the city? Was it: Anywhere in the city - I'll tell you the best public toilet.?

My Random Pics

Here are a couple of my attempts to get the moon setting one early morning.











Unlike the random pictures at Wayne's World, bet you can't guess where these are.

I did get a few shots of the moon one night though while not driving.

Office Efficiency

Ewa Nightmare

Unfortunately, it wasn't a dream but rather a nightmare on Saturday as I completed a round of "golf" at Ewa Beach Golf Club, formerly known as New Ewa Beach International. MSO and I were asked to fill two slots so that a friend's group could get the club rate. BIG MISTAKE! What was I thinking?!

It was partially gloomy at the start of the early morning but it turned out to be a rather cool day. Thought the little grass shacks at the first hole were interesting. Almost felt like I was on a tour of some sort. Yeah, a tour of golf hell.

We were told the course got a makeover and was closed for a couple of months as the work was being done. Well done as the course looked very nice except they need to get a spelling checker implemented as the person making the sign messed up on this one.

Maybe he/she was so distracted by the noise generated by all the planes passing by. Hey, that sounds like a good excuse for this nightmare. Oh well, I digress. Let the dust settle on my clubs for all I care right now.

T Day

Did you file your income tax return yet? Today is the federal tax filing deadline for most of the nation. However, per the IRS, if you live in Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont or the District of Columbia, the deadline is Tuesday, April 18. Why do they have an extra day? Who cares, we're getting a refund.

Midlife Crisis

If your life hasn't been touched by a man with a midlife crisis then consider yourself lucky. Midlife crises have often been viewed as balding, overweight men with new sports cars, new earrings, new clothing, new hairstyles, and/or even new girlfriends. Pathetic as it may sound, it happens. But why?! Men can't handle getting older? Scared? I really don't know but I've seen how it has hurt someone in my life. She's on her way to picking up the pieces but her life will never be the same. I hope MSO never goes through one. Earrings on him just won't do!

Happy Birthday

Our dog is a big 2 years old. We got her on Father's Day 2004. She's come a long way and has been a stress reliever (most of the time) in our life. Thanks!

Early Rising

Today is my first day at T Land and it started at 0600 (!) with a busy morning of in processing. They actually have an in processing checklist which allowed me to get off my fat behind and walk around a lot. Unfortunately, one set of stairs made my legs burn and got me going into a bunch of huffs and puffs. Started getting tired around 1000. It didn't help that baby didn't want to go back to sleep around midnight so we were up till about 0100 this morning. Oh the joys of parenthood. No, I'm not complaining. I'm too tired for that.

His Parting Gift

As Tabasco Man takes his next step into C Land, he needs (No, not a 6-pack of Heineken) to be equipped to eliminate any obstacles that may come between him and delicious red peppery meals.


I didn't want him to give anymore excuses that there was no Tabasco anywhere (especially in his new Land) so I decided to custom make him a 6-pack of Tabasco Red Pepper Sauce. It won't last him forever but it is a token of my appreciation for all that he has done. Good luck in your new Land (although you don't need it) and keep bloggin'.

I Got The Net!

I finally received the coveted net after actually winning first place with one of my picks entries. My other entry came in third place. It was an amazing post-season with great games that I don't remember seeing and listening to in a long time. Then again, I haven't been following it real closely like I did this year in a long time. Better luck next year guys. Just kidding...

LB Has Got A New Look

You wouldn't know it from the outside but the bowling alley has got a new look and it's pretty flashy. Probably done for Cosmic Bowling. LB is slowly replacing the old with new and the result thus far is basically what you see in the picture.

Sad Days Ahead

We had our last lunch with the U gang and two other P dudes joined us at Makino Chaya. Hopefully this won't be the last lunch we'll have together as it's a refreshing break from day-to-day activities, so to speak, and we all need some amusement when making fun of each other in one way or another, in person.



Tabasco Man was prepared as he brought his artillery. Makino Chaya does not have it so if you need that hot flavor, don't leave home without it.





Look at the presentation of this sushi-filled plate. Will Tabasco Man's next project be marketing sushi for restaurants? Imagine his work plastered on the pages of your beautiful menu or magazine. Such talent!




We had to finally scrape our butts off the chairs as we relunctantly made our way back to our daily business. Thanks to everyone for the company and the oishii lunch!

Car Washing Tips

If you want to wash your car like a pro, a minimum of once a week, and it's not raining for days and days, or you got your IS 350 and want to keep it lookin' purty, this article provides some tips. In the past when I did wash my vehicle, I actually had used techniques described in the article. The basic guidelines presented in the article are:

1. First rinse the entire car with water to remove loose dirt.
2. Wash and rinse one section at a time—working from top to bottom—to prevent a section from drying too quickly and leaving deposits or residue.
3. Rub the car surface gently to loosen dirt. Aggressive rubbing can grind dirt right into the finish, leaving scratches and swirls.
4. Be sure to rinse the wash mitt or sponge often to prevent accumulated dirt from scratching the paint.
5. Use plenty of rinse water to carry away the dirt.

They also recommend using a soft terry cloth towel or a high-quality chamois to wipe off excess water. I know I've neglected my exterior and interior long enough, and they're starting to look like crap. Maybe I should have it taken to a detail shop for a professional job. Who washes your car and/or what are your tips?

Pet Project

While looking at The Honolulu Advertiser, noted they have a Special Project called Pet Project, which is a "new Web feature dedicated to the well-being and enjoyment of pets" such as these cute little critters. Provides information on lost pets, found pets, training, fun facts, dog beaches/parks, and upcoming animal events. You can even submit pet photos.

Zoo-land-err

To err is human but to forget sunscreen for your baby is just MSO and I being bad parents. We were invited for a zoo visit this weekend (Thanks, KM Family!), and we almost left baby vulnerable to the harmful rays of the sun. But never fear, the more experienced parents went equipped with all the goods and baby sunscreen was one of them. We relunctantly used their sunscreen and were on our way.

The sun was actually out somewhat on Sunday but evidence of Friday's rain (puddles and mud) were still around as we made our way around the zoo. Oh, before I forget (again), if you decide to go to the zoo, BYOB as a bottle of water costs $2.75! MSO and I haven't been to the zoo in years but I do remember a water fountain that used to be there. It was an opened animal's mouth from which you drank the water from.


We made our way to the elephants first and it was as if it was my first visit to the zoo as I started snapping away with our camera.

We were provided with a map of the zoo but do we really need a map for the zoo here? Kidding. A map is always helpful. I actually use a map when I go to the shopping center and MSO laughs at me. At least I don't have to wonder where a store is and waste my time walking around looking for it.


Just as these turtles don't have to worry about swimming around the dirty water as they hop on the back of a bigger turtle to laugh at the people in awe of their ability (me included) to line up on a log.





Many of the animals were in siesta mode as they were sleeping or hiding.




Others were walking away,






hanging tall,







or plain outright posing.





A new thing at the zoo, at least to me, is the Keiki Zoo. The whole area was new, including buildings and restrooms. A comment about the restrooms. MSO went to check if there was a changing table in the men's restroom and much to my disappointment, there wasn't any. WTF?! Men must change their children's diapers too!


The Keiki Zoo features domestic animals that can be met up close such as the pigs,






the goats,







the cows,










and others.










I can't recall seeing so many strollers in one place before nor did I see so many shots of animals' rear ends before. It was a recurring theme of the day and I'll thank the mosquitos very much for leaving their bites on the back of my legs and not on my rear end.

(Sorry if the format of this post is all over the place. Had to get in as many of those pictures as I could.)