Deep within, I know that the only thing that's truly important is being in alignment with Spirit. Therefore, anything that's not of Spirit, such as fear, Illness, worry, shame, anger, and the like is not worthy of my attention.
1.) I was cleaning the kitchen.(Using oven cleaner at that time) 2.) Chemical Burn from Accident with spray on my right eye. 3.) I thought I would go blind. The worst ever experience! 4.) I do first aid on myself while waiting for ambulance. 5.) Ambulance takes me to the hospital. 6.) Hospital from 10:00 PM to 2:30AM 7.) Ron Drives from Elko to pick me up at the hospital 2:30AM Dec. 2, 2005 8.) Ron brings me back home. My eye hurt so much. All so worried that I'd go blind. 9.) I get some rest and take the day off.
The Next Afternoon December 2, 2005.
I was ordered to see Dr. Hendrik Louw at 2:30 PM. Ron brought me to the hospital and back at around 4:30 PM.
I'm not going blind! Thank God! It's going to be blurry and painful, but it will heal. First Aid got it where it's most critical. otherwise, I would have become blind.
Chemical burn first aid: Flush Flush Flush with water !!! (In my case it's been about about 3 hours total flushing). 30 minutes at home, 30 minutes in the ambulance, & 2 hours at the hospital. That saved my eye.
I learned from this.
. . . . . . .
02. Ron's Birthday Today Wednesday, December 14, 2005
2 Weeks later, with eye drops every 5 hours everyday, my right eye is back to normal. I can see clearly now. The world is clear once again. Thank Goodness!
Today is Ron's Birthday!
Ron (my BF), Frank (Ron's Dad) & Myself went to Fernie BC (The Curry Bowl Restaurant) for Ron's Birthday Dinner today. A month ago, we were in the same restaurant doing the same thing. Only difference is that it was my birthday then. Ron is now 51.
. . . . . . .
03. Ron's B-day Cake Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Courtesy of the Curry Bowl Restaurant..
. . . . . . .
04. X-Mas Party at Rossini's Friday, December 16, 2005
Today was the X-mas Party Pajama Party. I was only able to stay 45 minutes. Luke needed me back in Kimberley so I had to drive back. Too bad I missed the rest of the party.
. . . . . . .
05. My FIRST Snowman Thursday, December 22, 2005
Today, I made my very first snow man (age: 30). I was told to make a small ball of snow and just roll it. I tried that but the snow kept crumbling. So Instead, I got a shovel and a round metal basin and just started molding ( In other words, I cheated). It was fun! I laughed like a little kid while making it! How I've forgotten what it's like to be a kid!
. . . . . . .
06. My Guitara Thursday, December 22, 2005
Finally, I have my own Yamaha C40 Guitar. I hope next time we hang out, I will be able to play well.
. . . . . . .
07. Christmas at Ron's Sunday, December 25, 2005
Eric and Ron. We had christmas dinner at their home in Elko.
. . . . . . .
08. Christmas Dinner Table Sunday, December 25, 2005
From left: Ron, Mike, Luke, Frank Behind the Camera: Myself
Eric was somewhere else in the house when I snapped this picture.
___________
6 people. Dinner was good for at least 25 people. Wow. Stuffed!!!
. . . . . . .
09. Picture Frames Friday, December 30, 2005
Pictures of Family & Friends. Christmas. I miss all of them. These frames are just 5 of many more that are all over my bedroom. I have picture frames of friends and family on my Bedside table, on my desk, on Book shelves. All I have now are memories. That's hard.
. . . . . . .
10. New Year's Eve Bonfire Saturday, December 31, 2005
I spent New Year's Eve at Ron's house in Elko with (from left): Gary, Jim , Mike, (Myself), Ron and Frank (Ron's dad). Nice combination. Snow all around and a real nice warm bonfire.
Wow. The last night of year 2005!
. . . . . . .
11. Midnight, Snow covered road and a Street Light Saturday, December 31, 2005
Ron, Jim, Gary, Mike
. . . . . . .
12. Me included Saturday, December 31, 2005
I'm the one with his arm extended. Obviously, The shortest.
. . . . . . .
13. New Year's Walk Saturday, December 31, 2005
Walking by the streets of Elko just as the year has turned.
. . . . . . .
14. Christmas Lights Saturday, December 31, 2005
Here is house in Elko that I saw adorned in Christmas lights. Seeing it with snow all around sure makes it very very Christmassy. Suddenly I miss home so much.
I see winter the second time around. Wow. Its hard to believe that I have been here more than a year now. It seemed like it
was only yesterday!
. . . . . . .
Last Day of Wearing Dorky Glasses! Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Everything was a blurrrrrrr! All that blurred vision will soon be sharp. Ron & I go up the elevator to the 9th floor. My eye
surgery. Can't wait!
. . . . . . .
Highway to Calgary Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Seeing the highways this time of the year, with snow. Sure makes everything look different.
. . . . . . .
Huh? Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Stop sign? What's going on here? Huh?
. . . . . . .
Dr. Richard Leger, MD Wednesday, November 09, 2005
I asked my Doctor If we could have our picture taken together just before he did the surgery. The nurse took this for me. Dr. Leger has performed 20,000 lasik procedures. He has dedicated his career to refractive surgery & laser vision correction.
I spent about 4 hours in the clinic (Filling up forms, Getting re-examined, eye testing, etc. The actual operation took only about a minute per eye) Those 2 minutes changed my life. Right after the actual procedure, he checked my eyes and made sure there were no debris left. I could see, clearly!! 30 minutes later , I felt burning sensation in both my eyes and I had to have them kept shut.
They asked me to wear THE MATRIX like sunglasses everywhere I go. Even at night. Lots of eye drops & I was instructed to do nothing but sleep in a really dark room as soon as I got home.
Ron brought me to Bill's . I was so exhausted. I didn't know that that 2 minute procedure could drain so much energy from me. I slept 12 hours straight. Was just dead tired.
Next day, I opened my eyes. I could see!!!! Everything was clear!! NO Contacts, No glasses!! The surgery was a success!
. . . . . . .
Lasik MD Staff Thursday, November 10, 2005
Taken the next day. I had to keep wearing those shades for 2 weeks!!! My eyes were really sensitive to light. But I could see clearly now! No contacts! No more glasses! What a wonderful feeling! 16 years I was dependent on glasses and contacts. Now, no more. Yey!!!
. . . . . . .
Mr. Ronald Grant Fisher & Myself Thursday, November 10, 2005
Enjoying SEEING the world for the first time without glasses. I could cry for joy. A new start. A new Life. A new love (Ron is my BF - Boy Friend).
. . . . . . .
Ron's Friends Saturday, November 12, 2005
Any friend of Ron's is a friend of mine .... ughmmm, well, not necessarily, but these guys were great. New friends. How nice.
From left: John, Paul (front), Fred (back), Ron & Me behind the Camera
Paul is an excellent cook. He served us a tasty, juicy Rack of lamb that took all day to prepare. When paul makes dinner, Expect the finest. It was just Great!!! By the way It was Fred's B-day that day. So Wonderful!
. . . . . . .
My 1st B-Day Cake! Sunday, November 13, 2005
All my life, I never had a birthday cake. It was just something me and my brothers (and sister) did not grow up with. We were poor. We were practical. The Filipino Community in Cranbrook, lead by Joan & Rossini gave me my first cake & 1st B-day party in Canada. Last year, when I first got here. I had nothing. No friends, No Family, No money, No celebration. Just text messages from home wishing me well. It was the loneliest B-day ever, It was only my prayers to God that kept me company.
A year later. A party, A Cake, So many new friends, A car, My Life back on track and me emerging as a better version of myself. Thank you God!
. . . . . . .
The Party! Sunday, November 13, 2005
From left: Rossini, Tet, Jessica, Marivic, Marcel, _____ , Joanne (She did all the cooking & Preparation! Everyone loves Joanne), Dillon, Pam, Roseminda and Helen.
I don't know how to thank you all so much!!! God Bless you!!! What wonderful people! What wonderful friends! God loves me!
(I'm a bit teary now. boo hooo) I'm so happy.
. . . . . . .
Ron's work mates Monday, November 14, 2005
Ron gave me a tour arounf the saw mill where he works. He introduced me to some of the people he worked with. Here is Mr. Chris making funny faces. He's a cool guy isn't he?
. . . . . . .
Ron's B-day Cake for Me! Monday, November 14, 2005
My 2nd B-day cake! Wow! 2 B-day cakes in 1 a year!!! How lucky can I be? On my B-day, Ron and his Family (His Dad & Brother) took me out for dinner at the Curry Bowl Restaurant in Fernie, BC. The restaurant staff even sang me a B-day song! He he he!
So happy!!!! Can't believe I am 30!!
. . . . . . .
Happy B-day to Me! Monday, November 14, 2005
From left : Frank (Ron's Dad), Erick (Ron's Brother), Myself & Mr. Ron Fisher - my boyfriend
. . . . . . .
Winter! Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Ron took this picture just before we went in at Kelsy's in Kimberley for a Caesar Salad treat!
. . . . . . .
Chatting with My Mama Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Thank Goodness for technology! This is a picture of me taking a picture of my computer screen as I was chatting with my Mom & Jerry in San Diego. Sometimes I am also able to chat with my brother in Japan and My friends & Family in the the Philippines.
The webcam is really wonderful isn't it?
. . . . . . .
A Car Accident Friday, November 25, 2005
The small golden Toyota Echo sped past our car right after we went past a curve at about 110 kms/hr. It swerved, turned and slammed into the side of the mountain and then suddenly found itself back into oncoming traffic. Our car was heading straight at them. I was at the back seat, frightened and saying "Oh my Gosh! Oh Shitttt!!!! Ron slammed at the brakes and pulled over to the side. We both got out the car. Ron to the male driver and me to the Lady.
Lucy & Ken. They were on their way to Sorrento, BC. Lucy was so shaken that when I got to her, she was just standing outside the car holding back tears and hardly breathing. I tried my best to console her and let her know that she's going to be ok. I
thought she was going to have a heart attack! I gave her a hug and when she started crying on my shoulder, I had a feeling she was going to be OK. I'm glad I was able to help her feel better in a way. Accidents happen.
It was a snowy day. Ron, Frank & I were on our way to Kamloops to visit Ron's sister Carmen and his nephew Steve. It was an 8 hour trip from Kimberley, BC.
. . . . . . .
Ron, Ken & Lucy Friday, November 25, 2005
Ron was talking to Ken & Lucy.
. . . . . . .
Carmen's Home, Kamloops, BC Friday, November 25, 2005
From left: Steve, Frank, Carmen (Ron's sister), Me & Ron
. . . . . . .
Carmen's Balcony Friday, November 25, 2005
We were out smoking - Carmen & I. This was the view. Kamloops at night, after an afternoon of heavy snow.
. . . . . . .
The Hallway Friday, November 25, 2005
Ron & Frank heading to Rm. 204 at the Thompson Hotel, Kamloops. 2AM
. . . . . . .
A View of Kamloops Saturday, November 26, 2005
All this snow! I would easily get lost in this city at this time of the year. Every place just seemed to me all the same.
. . . . . . .
Canadian Geese - Migratory Birds Sunday, November 27, 2005
Ron & I were walking by the park on a cold afternoon right after having coffee. I got excited when I saw these birds by the side of the lake. Glad I had my Camera handy.
. . . . . . .
Canadian Quack Quacks Sunday, November 27, 2005
. . . . . . .
Winter! Snow Snow Snow! Beautiful! Monday, November 28, 2005
So many things change in this swiftly flying time in our lives. We all go through different stages in life. October has made me feel that way, with the warm summer heat leaving so soon, here comes the leaves that are green turning to gold or brown or red and orange. The changes are beautiful, or dreadful depending on how you see the world. Like the changing season, so is my life. This time for me, change is good.
. . . . . . .
Calgary Neighborhood, Calgary, AB Monday, October 17, 2005
I AM GAY. I am NOT a Heterosexual like most of you. I am who I am and there is nothing another person, institution or I can do about it. It just is. Until a few years ago, I have failed to accept some things I cannot change about myself ( I didn't realize I was/am gay, because I refused to recognize it as the truth). Back then, I thought that maybe it was just a phase, that maybe my gay feelings will go away one day, if only I ignore it. . . . . . . .
Hwy 3, Between Elko & Fernie, BC Saturday, October 01, 2005
I am writing this to educate most of you about what being gay is about; being gay is not a preference despite what the world says. I did not choose to be who or what I am. I was born this way. Gayness runs deep in my soul. . . . . . . .
Hwy 93, Between Wardner & Jaffray, BC Wednesday, October 05, 2005
All my life society has told me being gay is shameful – something that can be laughed at, and looked down on; something to be ashamed or embarrassed about; something evil; something sinful. It is not an easy process to finally accept and love myself for who I really am and come out to the world as a gay man. I have learned that it takes a lot of courage and self-respect and wisdom to challenge most wrong credence that’s been taught to me by society in general from the time I was born.
. . . . . . .
Jim Smiths Lake, Cranbrook, BC Saturday, October 15, 2005
The heterosexual (especially religious) world subconsciously forces a lot of people like me to lie and be a hypocrite so I could fit in properly to a world where everyone can relate, understand and feel safe about. But that is society’s fear. Fear is the greatest detriment to progress.
. . . . . . .
Cranbrook, BC Saturday, October 15, 2005
I learned that being gay is not something one can modify with behavior or religion. I’ve tried that nearly my entire life – hoping faith and behavioral modifications would alter me from being gay. It doesn’t work. I may be of masculine demeanor still (hindi naman kasi obvious gaano), but deep inside, I am and will always be gay.
. . . . . . .
Jim Smiths Lake, Cranbrook, BC Saturday, October 15, 2005
I learned what it was like to lose myself and my spirit broken because I wanted to be just like everyone else. That is the most miserable place on earth. False values only made me ashamed of who I am. It only made me want to kill myself. Believe me - that kind of misery is something the rest of the non-minority, heterosexual world will never come to understand or probably never even conceive of.
. . . . . . .
Hwy 3, Fernie - Elko, BC Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Forget what the rest of the heterosexual (or religious) “experts” – ministers and advisors, counselors preach about changing the gay man and turning him into a heterosexual. They do not know what they are talking about. They have not gone through what I have gone though.
I consider myself an expert on this topic about what being gay is about and trying to be a heterosexual. I have 30 years of experience living it. Do the majority of those “experts” have that same experience? I do not think so.
I do not need a PhD to convince you that I know what I am talking about. But we are all free to have our own opinions.
. . . . . . .
Marysville Rd, Kimberley, BC Saturday, October 01, 2005
I have met quite a number of older gay people who have never learned to love themselves enough and live alone with regrets, misery and sadness. I reflect and see what wasted time there was in such lives. It takes courage and wisdom to understand (and wisdom doesn’t just hit you in the head one day. It requires a substancial amount of precious time – and for some gay people, it takes a lifetime).
I don't want to waste my life away, wallowing in ignorance and fear.
. . . . . . .
Elk River, Hwy 3, Between Elko - Fernie, BC Tuesday, October 04, 2005
In my opinion, if a gay person doesn't find his voice, he or she will suffer in silence alone and perhaps live a wasted life, never finding out what it is really like to LIVE and be happy.
. . . . . . .
Elk River, Hwy 3, Between Elko - Fernie, BC Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Everything I do now is between me and my Divine Creator. So please do not belittle or look down on gay people and be judgmental when you are around someone like me. I am trying to make the best I can with the life God has given me.
. . . . . . .
Elk River, Hwy 3, Between Elko - Fernie, BC Tuesday, October 04, 2005
I choose to empower myself:
I choose to be happy; I choose to take charge of my life; I choose to embrace my uniqueness; I choose to no longer hate myself but to love myself; I am gay like it or not; I choose to surround myself with people who love me as I am; I choose to not waste my time with people who hate me. They have no place in my life. I will live my life in peace, love and harmony.
. . . . . . .
Hwy 93, Between Wardner & Jaffray, BC Wednesday, October 05, 2005
The truth sets us free. I cannot count the number of times in my past when I wished and prayed that I am not gay. I wished that I could change being gay; that my being gay will go away. But it will not go away. That's the truth. I am now finally free of this cross that weighed me down all my life.
. . . . . . .
A Farm in Cranbrook, BC Wednesday, October 05, 2005
I am Edgar Lorenzo F. Nievera. I am proud of my name and my life and my masculinity. I will stand up for myself and embrace life with all my might. God knows my struggles and everything I do. I know he is happy with my life. I have peace. No regrets.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Back Country Roads, Kimberley - Cranbrook, BC Wednesday, October 05, 2005
NOW GET TO KNOW ME DEEPER: THE FOLLOWING ARE MY OPINIONS
. . . . . . .
Between Kimberley & Cranbrook, BC Wednesday, October 05, 2005
I believe that the less a person understands himself, the more he will hate and the more hideous and miserable his life will be. With greater understanding opens the consciousness to greater chances of happiness and meaning in life.
. . . . . . .
Rotary Drive, Kimberley, BC Wednesday, October 05, 2005
I think the reason why the world has so many bigots and so much hatred for others is because many have not bothered to gain greater understanding and acceptance about the truth (about everything or most things). People with the strongest, most insensitive opinions in my opinion just don't give a damn. No wonder, most live lives of emptiness - they just don't care.
. . . . . . .
Roco the Dog, Bill's House, Calgary, AB, Canada Monday, October 17, 2005
When people pass evil or lowly judgments on to others, it is because they choose to avoid confronting their own evils and defects, and instead call attention to the flaws of others. This is a typical human behavior.
. . . . . . .
Route 22, Alberta Tuesday, October 18, 2005
If you hate gay people is it because you are afraid you are just the same? If you call someone stupid, isn't it because you are a fool yourself? If you call someone ugly, isn't it because deep inside you, you know you are uglier? The list is endless. I hope you get my point.
. . . . . . .
Alberta, Canada Tuesday, October 18, 2005
People in general are afraid to confront the truth. And fear keeps them from expanding their horizons and opening their minds.
. . . . . . .
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
The world is filled with fools who lack independent thoughts - a lot of them are camouflaged in self-righteousness and lies - using the bible or some scriptures to back up an unchallenged belief system. A lot of times, WE ARE ALL FOOLS and will continue to be fools till death takes over.
. . . . . . .
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Wouldn't it be better if we used the potentials of our minds; Intelligence to gain greater understanding to expanse love all over the world?
. . . . . . .
Monday, October 17, 2005
I thought my Creator hated me, so I hated myself in return. I kept asking God why he made me "defective”? Why did I have so many flaws? But I was wrong - I realized that although I am imperfect, it is alright to be gay. Everything I needed, he already gave me when i was born and being gay is one of the things he gave me. God doesn't hate me. It's Judgemental human beings that do. It's judgmental people who say SATAN made me gay. They are ignorant. far more ignorant than they know.
. . . . . . .
Leaving Calgary, AB Tuesday, October 18, 2005
I believe that the quality of a person's character comes a lot from the quality of his thoughts. These thoughts we keep all our lives are constantly carved, sculpted and shaped like a jewel to achieve self mastery. People have forgotten, our consciousness separates us from the lower forms in the animal kingdom. If we live our lives based on the dictations of everyone else, do we not debase ourselves to being non-thinkers? - like animals?. With consciousness, and intelligence, the beauty of life and the whole world is served in a platter ready for the picking for those who choose to. I think that is why God gave us FREE WILL.
. . . . . . .
Leaving Calgary, Route 22, Alberta Tuesday, October 18, 2005
In my opinion, what MOST people do not understand is that moral & spiritual values are not there to restrict. They are there to protect. Personally, I think God wants us to master our own humanity so we can move on to things of more Importance - like love, spirituality, peace, happiness and harmony etc.. In my opinion, he probably doesn't want self righteous people to preach religion. He wants every one of us to study life, and learn how to love and respect and be true to ourselves and in return practice love, peace, harmony and respect and truthfulness to others as well as we live our daily lives.
. . . . . . .
Black Diamond, Alberta Tuesday, October 18, 2005
If only the greater percentage of humanity worked to be wiser and search for deeper meaning in their existence, then this world as we know will be heaven on earth. If only the majority people were more accepting of humanity's limits and strive realistically from there, the world will be better.
. . . . . . .
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
As for how I live my life, in the end everything is really just between God and myself. It doesn't matter as much anymore what others think of me. If a religious nut asks "Edgar, do you think God is happy with your life?" , My answer would be "YES. I think God is happy. Everything I do in my life passes through My Creator first." My life has meaning.
. . . . . . .
Alberta, Canada Tuesday, October 18, 2005
I have learned that Men/women have no right to pass unfavorable judgments on other men/women, based on their faith, status and personal beliefs, or sexual Orientation etc. For their understanding and intelligence is limited and flawed, no matter where the basis. Why do I say that? - Because we are NOT GOD. We are human beings. If we insist on knowing it all, we are fools. God made us humans - not all knowing. We should be humble and keep an open mind. We will never know it all. We should never stop learning from our life (especially) and the lives of others.
. . . . . . .
Bill's House, Calgary, AB Monday, October 17, 2005
Bill's House in Downtown Calgary. This is Ron's friend's house. He provides accomodations to travellers. I like this Inn, because it's only a few minutes walk to the train to main district. Today is October 17, 2005 (Monday). Ron had a doctor's appointment there, so I decided to tag along to Calgary so I can get a Laser eye surgery pre-op exam at LASIK MD. (www.lasik.com).
Today I will find out if I am a candidate for the operation. If I am, that means that soon, I will be seeing the world without any need for glasses or contacts! Oh! that's my dream!!!! I have been wearing glasses for 14 years now. I will be glad to see the world clearly! Also, I was settting my mind not to be disappointed if they found out that my eyes were not a candidate.
So this morning I keep muttering to myself. Whatever happens, I will be fine. If they tell me I have to wear glasses and Contacts all my life, I will just be thankful that I can see. I will not be sad. I will be happy because I know I am far luckier than some. If They find I am a condidate, then well and Good. I will be thankful.
. . . . . . .
Route 22, Alberta Tuesday, October 18, 2005
This is what i see without glasses and Contact lenses. Imagine waking up in the morning and having to grope in the dark for your glasses. Sometimes I bump into stuff and hurt myself. I've sat on my glasses so many times too. I've dropped and broken them, Misplaced them, and they leave heavy marks on my nose bridge. I am glad I won't have to see the world like this after the surgery. After the surgery, Hopefully the next picture will be how I will see the world.
. . . . . . .
Route 22, Alberta Tuesday, October 18, 2005
nice huh? Clear vision. The Lasik surgery is no guarantee though, But I will hope for the best. My tentative schedule for surgery is November 9, 2005. I will keep you posted on that. I will take pictures.
. . . . . . .
Life Plaza Bldg, Downtown Calgary, AB Monday, October 17, 2005
My appointment was at suite 900- 734 7th Avenue, SW, Calgary Alberta, Canada. So I press the elevator up to the 9th floor. I cross my fingers. I hope it's going to be good news after!
- - - - - - -
3 Hours Later:
The pre-op exam determined that I am a candidate for lasik surgery!!! I am so happy!!! But after several exams and barrels of eye drops, My vision was really blurry. I had to wear sunglasses and while I was walking downtown, I couldn't see very well. My vision was so blurry I felt impaired.
I called for assistance from my Boy friend Ron. He came over and we walked together to Bill's Inn/House. I wasn't sure I would be able to find the address without Ron being there. He is such a good guy. Thanks Ron! I really appreciate it!
. . . . . . .
Calgary, AB Monday, October 17, 2005
Ron, Nicole, Bill and Wayne
. . . . . . .
Luke's Home, Kimberley, BC Friday, October 28, 2005
October 28, 2005. Today is my 1st year anniversarry in Canada. Can't believe it has been a year! Time flies! Today is a busy day. Got to haul logs, chop wood, Carry and stack firewood. Winter is coming. Must get all these done before the snow comes. Luke's friends came over to help. It was a good day. Got lots work done.
. . . . . . .
Luke's Kitchen, Kimberley, BC Sunday, October 30, 2005
Lasagna. Luke says "you want to take a picture of the first Lasagna you ever made?". And so I did. The Lasagna was so good.
. . . . . . .
Tita Roseminda's Home, Cranbrook, BC Monday, October 10, 2005
Thanksgiving Day
. . . . . . .
Walmart, Cranbrook, BC Saturday, October 15, 2005
In North America, everyone knows WAL-MART. Wherever you go in Canada, There's always a Wal-Mart. This is where I buy most of my stuff. I like checking out the goods on CLEARANCE days. Prices are on sale. I can't shop as much as when i did back home - I'm so frugal. I will be cheap and practical, but I won't compromise quality. I will buy something expensive If I know I am going to be using it a long time (clothes for example). But most of the time I don't want to buy stuff. Besides, don't really need most of the stuff in there anyway. They create the WANT and deceive you that is is a NEED. Oh well, this is just me muttering to myself because I don't have money. Ha ha ha.
. . . . . . .
Lake Wasa, BC Saturday, October 15, 2005
Joanne's Driving Lessons with Me:
Joanne laughs at this letter. It's a magnet/sticker that needs to be attached at the back of the car whenever she's on the wheel. In Canada L is for Learners. To get an L sticker, you have to take an exam. When you pass that exam, They give you an L sticker. You then look for a driving school or a teacher and start Learning how to drive. After driving for 40 hours or more (That's like 40 days at 1 hour each; or 20 days at 2 hour sessions etc.) you take an actual road test. Pass it and the REAL Driver's License is given to you. All these come with expenses ofcourse and it doesn't come cheap. It comes with real hard work, Plus car insurance, plus Gas, Maintainance etc..
. . . . . . .
Indian Reservation, Cranbrook, BC Saturday, October 15, 2005
. . . . . . .
108 year old town, Fort Steele, BC Saturday, October 15, 2005
. . . . . . .
Halloween Party, Fort Steele, BC Saturday, October 29, 2005
Taken during the party at Fort Steele. It was dark outside. Flash won't work as good. and I did not bring a tripod with me so I had to enhance this picture with a software to add detail. For an entrance fee of $10, you get to enjoy the Halloween celebrations. People were in constumes. I just put on my regular clothes and when people asked me what I'm supposed to be I just tell them "A Gnome" .
. . . . . . .
Halloween, Inside Fort Steele, BC Saturday, October 29, 2005
The Jack O Lantern - One of the many entries for a contest
. . . . . . .
Fort Steele, BC Saturday, October 29, 2005
There was a halloween party at Fort Steele. Here I took a picture at real slow shutter speed to give an illusion of a ghost passing by.
. . . . . . .
Fort Steele, BC Saturday, October 29, 2005
From Left: Ate Rossini, Wilfred and Joanne
. . . . . . .
Inside Fort Steele, BC Saturday, October 29, 2005
From Left: Ate Rossini, Edgar the Garden Gnome and Joanne
. . . . . . .
The Basement Window, Luke's Home, Kimberley, BC Sunday, October 30, 2005
The next morning, I look out from the window of my room in the basement and I see The 1st snow. Yesterday everything was green. Now it's all white. Brrrr! Winter is here. (I'm not very happy about it for some reason)
. . . . . . .
Kimberley, BC Sunday, October 30, 2005
Snow and Grass. What I see directly in front of me when I look out my tiny basement window.
. . . . . . .
My Room, Luke's House, Kimberley, BC Monday, October 31, 2005
This is me watching TV in my bedroom. I hope you enjoyed all the pictures. Sometimes I run out of new stuff to talk about that's where the Photos come in. They are a story on their own.
Please keep in touch. It is e-mails and texts messages that keep me happy. Thanks for keeping in touch! Please send me an e-mail soon! As a friend and a family, I send you my love. Take care always! And If you still love me despite the fact that I am Gay, let me know. I would appreciate it even more.
Si Luke ang employer ko. Tawag ko sa kanya kalbo - hindi sa panlalait ha, kundi parang sa atin ba, term of endearment. Mabait naman sya e. Minsan nga lang nakaka irita hehehe. Ang biyaheng ito ay para makapiling niya ang kanyang mga mahal sa buhay at mga kaibigan at ibang mga kamaganak. Ang Destination namin: Kenora, Ontario halos 3000 kms ang layo. Malaking bagay ito para sa kanya, dahil hindi niya ito kayang gawin na mag-isa dahil nga sa kanyang sakit. Malking karangalan ito para sa akin - na makatulong sa kanya. Today is September 1, 2005: 1st Day of the trip. Starting from Kimberley, British Columbia and drive to Medicine Hat in Alberta, Passing through, Cranbrook, Elko, Fernie, Sparwood, The BC-Alberta Border, to the municipality of Crowsnest Pass all the way to Lethbridge and then Medicine Hat, Alberta. Approximately 500 kms. I will show you what Lethbridge looks like. Click next . . . . . . . .
Lethbridge, Alberta Thursday, September 01, 2005
Crowchild Highway . . . . . . . .
High Level Bridge, Lethbridge, Alberta Thursday, September 01, 2005
The world’s largest High Level Bridge – With the growth of coal mining in the city, the population of Lethbridge continued to grow. Need for rail line access for the mines saw the construction of bridge. Beginning in August of 1908, the bridge was completed June 22, 1909 and officially opened on November 1, 1909. It cost a whopping $1,334,525.00 to build.
This bridge is still the longest and highest of its kind in the world reaching 5,327.625 feet long (1.6km) and 314 feet high (96 meters). In its time is has been described by some as one of the wonders of the world!
This CPR rail line has stood the test of time and is still used today with numerous trains crossing the bridge throughout the day.
Lethbridge, Alberta is one of the warmest & sunniest cities in Canada with a pop. of 77,202. The community is proud of its parks & recreation facilities not to mention the friendliness & community spirit. . . . . . . . .
1st Day's Journey Thursday, September 01, 2005
Today, we passed by at least 14 towns. We have travelled 482+ Kms. Because of Luke's condition we cannot just keep driving straight. We have to take a break several times. I enjoyed driving and seeing all these new places in Alberta. . . . . . . . .
Sun Deck Motel, Medicine Hat, Alberta Thursday, September 01, 2005
It's been a long day. Both Luke and I are tired. Luke needed to rest so we checked in the first motel we find. It was 10:00 PM. I'm sooo exhausted!. I need some sleep! . . . . . . . .
A Paralized Face Thursday, September 01, 2005
I was getting ready to go to bed. As I was brushing my teeth and looking at myself in the mirror, I realised something was wrong with my face! The right side was paralised!!!!!
Oh my Goodness!!! What could be wrong? I call an emergency hotline to the hospital. The doctor says I need to go to emergency right away. . . . . . . . .
Uneven muscle contraction, causing distortion on my face Thursday, September 01, 2005
The right side was paralyzed - my lips were uneven, my nose muscles didn't work, My right eye was teary and sensitive. When I tried to smile, it looked as if I was making a face! It was late at night. We just arrived. I realized it was going to be a long night. Luke and I went to the Hospital Emergency. I waited 3 hours until a doctor attended to me (this was early morning. so I had no sleep at all!). He had me come back at 9:00 AM for CAT Scan to determine what it was.
After the CAT SCAN 13 hours later, He ruled out the possibility of:
1) A Stroke 2) A Brain Tumor
The Diagnosis: I have been afflicted with Bell's Palsy.
He told me not to worry. It will go away eventually (though how long, we don't know). I just needed to take some pain relievers for about 2 weeks or more. It's not permanent! Relief came over me. Thank God. I thought my face will be distorted forever!!! . . . . . . . .
Day 2 Friday, September 02, 2005
From Medicine Hat (after the Hospital Incident), we were back on the road again - passing through the Alberta - Saskatchewan Border and Aiming to get to Regina at the end of the day's trip. Here is a picture I took of Luke trying to "loosen up" and get moving on one of the stops we made on the back roads. (Luke - my client, has Parkinson's Disease - making him unable to move sometimes. That's where I come in). 2 hours later, with Luke feeling better again, we were back on the road. . . . . . . . .
Saskatchewan Friday, September 02, 2005
The highways were all straight as if it would go on forever. It was so Interesting - Flat lands, Wide open spaces that seemed infinite. Vehicles driving 110+ for hours and hours. I see cows, sheeps, farm lands. Beautiful!! . . . . . . . .
Day 2: Ran out of Gas Friday, September 02, 2005
DAY 1
1. I Had Bell's Palsy. Had to go to Emergency at Midnight 2. Cat Scan The next morning. I had no sleep. Stressfull!
DAY 2:
1) We drive for hours. Luke tightens up. He says some thing's wrong with Gas Gauge.
2) We ran out of Gas (maybe the gas gauge was right after all...hmmmp!).
3) We call for rescue and wait for hours in the darkness for the tow truck
4) In the darkness, I saw Aurora Borealis in the sky for the first time (Very short however)
5) A Truck driver (he's the one on the left) helped us wait with his headlights on the van for safety. A Good samaritan.
6) Truck driver lets me ride his 26 wheeler (Another 1st time for me) to the gas station. Van refilled. Starts working again. *sigh* . . . . . . . .
I'm feeling Weak & ill. I'm so Exhausted & I haven't slept for 2 days Because of my client!
I FEEL LIKE SCREAMING!!!!
Friday, September 02, 2005
All these mis-adventures have no end!
7) By midnight, we found a PILGRIMS INN to check in (I'm so very very very tired!!!! Slept right away)
8) Woke up at 2AM. Luke was gone. His Van was not in sight. His pills are overdue. He left all his medicines & his celphone. His bed has not been slept on! Panic! Worry. (He can't move! or call for help!)
9) I call for help. The Caronport Cop and I spent 9 hours looking for him in a police car . If you were in my shoes, how would you feel? (I feel like screaming!!)
My Clients story:
a) Went to get something to drink (he drives the van) at midnight. b) He goes driving through the back roads exploring the small town. c) He forgets to take his pills. As a result: d) He then loses his own mobility. Couldn't move & is stuck. e) He couldn't call for help (He forgot his celphone at the Inn) f) He couldn't take his pills (He forgot that at the Inn as well) g) He struggles inside his parked van & on the floor in the darkness for hours & Hours. h) Manages to salvage some pills that have fallen in the dashboard & Floor. i) Hours later, pills take effect. j) He drives back to the Inn & finds me just got back from hours in the police car..really angry & disappointed (I'm angry & dead silent and exhausted)
k) He apologizes for his irresponsibility (Pills, Cellphone, Other people?)
l) We both rest a bit. Then move on. An uncomfortable silence between the 2 of us. This isn't a first time you know. Lessons should have been learned by now. I'm frustrated . . . . . . . .
The Next Day : Day 3 Saturday, September 03, 2005
Both of us were tired - my client and I. What happened yesterday and last night was a nightmare! One mis-adventure after the other.
We both decide to get back on the road. Our target is: To drive from Caronport to Moosejaw and then from there to Regina City. It was only a short drive. 3 hours .
.
. . . . . . .
Regina City, Stop Over Sunday, September 04, 2005
Thank Goodness Luke had friends in Regina City. Today we drove only for 3 hours. Then we stayed over at luke's friends' house. Both of us were able to relax and get our energy level back. I slept.
. . . . . . . .
Day 4: Regina to Indian Head Malapit lang Sunday, September 04, 2005
From Regina City we drove to Qu'Apelle, Katepwa Beach, Saskatchewan to stay the night at Luke's friends Nancy & Bill's: That afternoon (for the first time in more than a decade) Luke was able to water-ski just like the old days! He cried with joy! It was wonderful!
This dog had a crush on me. We played catch! She didn't want to stop. She could play catch the whole day! She was very persistent too! I had a hard time trying to get her to leave me alone after!!!! . . . . . . . .
Katepwa Beach Sunday, September 04, 2005
Ito mismo ang view sa harap ng Summer Cottage ng mga friends ni Luke. Tuwing summer lang sila tumitira sa bahay na iyon dahil walang heating system. Ang ganda ganda ng lake na yun - at ang setting ng bahay. Perfect! Sa isip ko, "if you have this as your home - what else would you ask for?" Kaya lang merong Autumn at winter. Soon, ang lake na ito magiging yelo na. Hindi na pwedeng mag shorts and sando. Kaya habang nandito ang summer, lahat ng mga tao nag e-enjoy. Water sports and camping etc. . . . . . . . .
Katepwa Lake Sunday, September 04, 2005
Earlier this afternoon, Sinubukan kong mag water ski. Kaya lang, maraming practice at training pa ang kailangan ko. Ang hirap mag control ng ski, habang lumalangoy akala mo ba? Nakakapagod!. After 10 attempts, at halos ilang galon ng tubig din ang nainom ko, exhausted na ako. Ready na akong magpa lunod. Yoko naaaaaa!!!!! mamamatay na ako!!!! bwahahah. Another day is done. Ang sarap umupo sa tabi ng lake, nanonood ako ng mga naka water ski habang palubog ang araw. Napaka ganda ng buhay. Today is September 4, 2005. To the day I have been alive for 10,878 days. Everyday is special. Kahit maraming palpak - ok parin, dahil yun ang mga spices of life. Lahat ng mga ito - blessings sa akin. Thank you God! . . . . . . . .
Day 5: Destination: Brandon, Manitoba Monday, September 05, 2005
Next day, Pagkatapos ng breakfast, nagpaalam na kami sa tinuluyan namin. We had so much fun! Pagod parin ako, kasi medyo mahirap yung pagtulog ni Luke. Nakailang bangon din ako at akyat baba mula sa Van (doon ako natulog dahil walang spare room sa cottage) kahit madaling araw para mag-assist kay Luke. Pero eto ang trabaho ko. Masarap tumulong sa kapwa. (naks - Pinoy po ako!) Bow! Ito ang picture nung mag asawang may ari nung cottage. Mga kaibigan ni Kalbo - si Nancy & Bill . . . . . . . .
Indian Head Monday, September 05, 2005
Heto ako, nakakita ako ng abandoned house from days gone by. Sabi ko kay Luke, kailangan naming huminto, dahil gusto kong kumuha ng Litrato. Napaka dramatic kasi ng dating nung lumang bahay. Nilapitan namin. Ang kwento pala sa bahay na iyon: English farmer noong pre-1930's dinala ang boong pamilya in search for greener pastures. Sinubukan ang pagsasaka sa mga lupaing ito - kaya lang hindi naging maganda ang lupa sa pagsasaka. Kinailangan nilang iwanan ang lupang ito dahil hindi naging fruitful ang venture nila. Yung bahay nalang ang nagsilbing alaala sa kanilang naging kapalaran. . . . . . . . .
Ang Van ni Luke Monday, September 05, 2005
Ito ang sasakyan na gamit namin sa boong biyaheng ito. Minsan Ako ang driver, Minsan kung mabuti ang pakiramdam ng cliente ko, sya naman ang driver at ako naman ang Turista. Maraming mga sandali na nakakalimutan ko na nag tratrabaho nga pala ako. Maganda itong work ko (on the other hand) kasi, para akong exchange student. Nagaaral na, Bumabyahe pa, Binabayaran pa. Day 5: Brandon, Manitoba. Tumuloy kami sa bahay ng Pinsan ng Boss ko. . . . . . . . .
"Broken Dreams" by Edgar Nievera Monday, September 05, 2005
A Brave English farmer and his family crossed the Atlantic Ocean with dreams of greener pastures. Selling all he had - he mustered all courage set forth to the unknown. . . . A very colorful life it was, now faded into shades of gray.
.
.
Day 6: Finally nakarating din kami sa Destination namin: From Brandon to Winnipeg, Manitoba. Sarap maging turista! hehe. . . . . . . . .
This Trip is for Luke Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Day 7: Winnipeg, Manitoba. Dito tumira si Luke noong bata pa sya. Binisita namin ang old neighborhood nya. Swerte talaga ng mga Canadians, Ang gaganda ng mga neighborhood. Lahat ng mga bahay maayos. Ang mga side walks malinis. Maganda ang planning. Merong order. Sana maayos din ang lahat ng Pinas ano? Alam ko wish ng lahat ng Pinoy yan. Na maging maayos din ang bansa natin. Sa over population natin, magagawa pa kaya natin yan. Malamang high rise buildings na ang bagsak ng mga susunod nating mga Henerasyon. Dalawang beses ang dami ng tao sa boong Pilipinas kumpara sa boong Canada. Ang Pilipinas ay mas maliit pa ang land area kaysa boong British Columbia (na isa lamang sa 13 provinces & territories ng Canada). Patuloy parin ang population explosion sa Pilipinas. Patuloy parin ang paglaganap ng poverty. Paano ba tayo babangon sa kahirapan? Kahit nandito ako sa Canada, Pilipinas parin ang nasa puso ko. *sigh* Tama na nga. ok. Ok. Saan na ba tayo? ah... ito ang neigborhood ni Luke . . .
. . . . . . . .
Kapitbahay Nila Noon Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Tuwang tuwa si Luke dahil teenager pa sya noong huli syang nakabisita sa neigborhood na ito. Nagulat siya noong nalaman niya na ang mga kapit bahay nila noon ay hanggang ngayon, doon parin nakatira. Yung ale - Kinulit ako ng kinulit. Kung ano ano ang mga pinagkwekwento sa akin tungkol sa neighborhood nila. Feeling nya matagal na nya akong kakilala (Alzheimers po). Yung isang mama naman, kabarkada yan ni Luke noong bata pa sya. O diba, para silang mga zuma? hehehe . . . . . . . .
7 Days later, we've Arrived Finally! Thursday, September 08, 2005
Camp Waterfall (lampas ito ng Kenora, Ontario): Dito po kami mag "babakasyon" (Si Luke oo. Ako trabaho parin). Pero Feeling ko bakasyon din ako. Kasi nga malayo sa Kimberley. Bagong setting. Ang Camp na ito ay minamanage ng sister & Brother in-law ni Luke. Yung Cottage sa right, dyan kami tutuloy. May kanya kanya kaming kwarto. Galing galing!. Parang nasa Teacher's Camp ako sa Baguio. Sa likod, merong lake at iba pang mga cottages. Binubuksan ang resort na ito tuwing summer lang. The rest of the year, nasa Winnipeg ang mag-asawa. Doon talaga sila nakatira. Finally, wala na gaanong stress. bwahaha! bwahahahah! (sige tawa pa ako!) *sigh* wala naman akong kainuman. :-( nakaka miss ang friends at ang Red Horse. Yoko sa Budweiser! Napaka tahimik dito sa camp. Merong mga squirrels, rabbits, Deers na malayang pagala gala. Interesting din. Walang Celphone signal dito. Wala din Internet, Walang TV, Walang Radyo. Buti nalang merong Kuryente! Ha ha ha! Ngee, Paano na ako makakapag e-mail! .
. . . . . . .
Sioux Narrow, Ontario Friday, September 09, 2005
Camping ground ito. Binisita ni kalbo (yun nalang itawag ko sa kanya - tutal totoo naman e. Bwahaha) yung kaibigan nya na nag kakamping kasama ang asawa. Finally sila lang ang nakita kong nag camping na naka tent! hindi yung camper o trailer! Hanep! Sila yung hindi pangkaraniwang campers. Mga astig. galing. . . . . . . . .
Mr. Seagull Sunday, September 11, 2005
Heto ako, nakaupo sa isang bench sa tabi ng lake sa Kenora City, Ontario. Lumalapit ang mga Seagulls dahil sanay silang binibigyan ng pagkain ng mga bumibisita sa park. Sayang wala akong dalang pagkain - kaya ayan iniwanan ako ni Stephen Seagull (kapatid ni Steven?). Sige Umalis ka! Ganya ka! . . . . . . . .
Ito pa o.. Sunday, September 11, 2005
Ibang seagull naman ito. nagbabakasakali rin. Kaya lang pare pareho sila. Dahil hindi nakuha ang gusto, iniwanan ako. Buhuhu. Sino na ang mga ka kwentuhan ko! sino na? *sigh* hirap talaga i-amuse ang sarili. Nauubusan na ako. Kung marami lang sana akong pera - kanina pa ako gumasto. kaso tipid tipid. ano ba iyan! bwahaha. . . . . . . . .
McLeod Park, Kenora City, Ontario Sunday, September 11, 2005
Sunshine on me, Kaharap ang Lake of the Woods, Minsan merong dumadaang train sa likod. As you can see, merong kalsada sa likod ko. Ang kintab ng lake, nakakasilaw. Sayang wala parin akong sounds. Pero mga naririnig ko, Seagulls, Boats, Water, Konting traffic, Minsan merong train, Mga nagtatawanan na mga magkakaibigan o Pamilya na nag jo-jogging o kung ano ano. Maraming Visual Stimulation. I spent a lot of time taking pictures. Kung ilalagay ko lahat dito sa blog naku - sobrang dami. I got hundreds and hundreds of wonderful shots (no kidding). Photography makes me happy. Yun nalang talaga ang libanagan ko ngayon. . . . . . . . .
Ang Gitara at ang Fountain Sunday, September 11, 2005
Habang nakaupo ako, Heto at pumuwesto sa harapan ko ang mag nobyong ito (parang gusto yatang mag posing?). Tumugtog ng Gitara si Kulot. Habang video cam siya ni Ms. Ganda Aba impressed ako, magaling kumanta at mag gitara si Kulot! Hayan sila, Pinanonood ni Kulot ang sarili niya. Yung fountain turns on every 30th of the hour and stays on for at least 30 minutes. Sana marunong din akong mag gitara. . . . . . . . .
7 Days in Camp Wednesday, September 14, 2005
I think we were supposed to stay longer. Mukhang na bore din si Kalbo. Sa 7 days na iyon, nakapag swimming din ako ng ilang beses, nakapag boat ride, Yung Bells Palsy ko, andyan parin - paralised parin ang right side of the face ko. Sept 1-10 pinakamalala yung paralysis, pero eventually, nag subside din pakonti konti. Yoko ilagay yung pic ko na paralysed ang face, kasi nakaka iyak. Ayoko mag focus sa panget (bwahaha) - literally! (Nawala rin yung paralysis noong Sept 30. Pero masakit parin ng konti yung right side ng face ko. At least hindi na ako permanent na panget diba? hehe.. medyo panget nalang. jok!). So now it is time to go. Libot ako sa Camp waterfalls for 1 last time. . . . . . . . .
Little Bridge Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Sarap mag swimming dyan! Malmig yung tubig pero masarap! Very good exercise! (I wish we could have stayed longer). Pero sabi ni Kalbo alis na raw kami. . . . . . . . .
Boat Dock Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Ito ang favorite swimming place ko. Kung walang salbabida, nakakapagod - hindi ako makapag stay sa tubig ng matagal! Pero noong merong life jacket, ang sarap mag swim! pwedeng pa=relax relax sa tubig - alam kong hindi ako malulunod sa exhaustion! *sigh* ma mi-miss ko itong place na ito. . . . . . . . .
Picture! Picture! Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Paalam na si Boss kalbo sa kanyang sister at Brother in law. Haaay naku biyahe nanaman. Stressful nanaman kaya ito? sana naman hindi. . . . . . . . .
Trip back to Kimberley [Day 1 ] Destination: Winnipeg Thursday, September 15, 2005
Hindi Gaano malayo ang biyahe ngayon From Kenora, Ontario to Winnipeg, Manitoba. Sa Winnipeg kami nagpunta dahil gustong bisitahin ni Kalbo ang ninang niya. Nag dinner kami tapos biyahe ulit the next day. Ito ang picture ng Downtown Winnipeg. City person talaga ako. Mas prefer ko tumira sa ganitong lugar kaysa sa rural areas. Siguro dahil boong buhay ko, nasanay ako sa maraming mga tao. Sa Kimberley - ngee mangilan ngilan lang ang tao dun. . . . . . . . .
Life Compartments Thursday, September 15, 2005
Kuha ito sa Winnipeg, habang naglalakad ako downtown. We stayed in Winnipeg 2 nights. . . . . . . . .
Manitoba Friday, September 16, 2005
September 16, 2005: From Winnipeg, Manitoba we drove past Brandon and headed towards Regina. Kaya lang tumama nanaman ang sakit ni Kalbo, kaya napilitan kaming mag stop sa Whitewood, Saskatchewan for the Night. Ilang oras din kaming nagpakahirap para makabalik si Kalbo at makagalaw. Pero once nakapag pahinga na kami. biyahe ulit the next day. Bangon at 8:30AM at alis na kaagad. . . . . . . . .
Saskatchewan Friday, September 16, 2005
September 17, 2005: From Whitewood (Saskatchewan), we drove past Regina, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, Medicine Hat and Arrived in Lethbridge (Alberta) for the night. Mas mabilis ang biyahenbg pabalik. Wala na kasi gaanong dadaanan si Kalbo. At least hindi nakakapagod. Ang scenery - endless flat lands, Trains, Cows, tiny Lakes. . . . . . . . .
Somewhere in Canada Friday, September 16, 2005
Habang umaandar ang sasakyan, napatingin ako sa taas. Thank you po. Salamat po sa lahat ng mga biyaya nyo sa akin. Tulungan nyo po sana ako na hindi makalimot. At tulungan nyo po sana ako na matutuhang magmahal sa kapwa ko, gaya ng pagmahal ninyo sa akin. Amen. . . . . . . . .
Alberta Saturday, September 17, 2005
This modern piece of machinery takes me faster than the wind. All of the sound around me fades out and my thoughts are left alone to resound an echo inside my head. My eyes see, My heart feels. Memories of loved ones on the other side of the world. Most of them are probably sleeping as I think these, some of them staring into the stars wondering what is on the other side of the world. All alone... all alone I go. . . . . . . . .
Alberta Saturday, September 17, 2005
Moooooo! Parang picture ng commercial ng gatas ano? Bwahaha. Malapit na ang Kimberley. Bakit kaya, hanggang ngayon, hindi ko makayanang sabihing "home" ang Kimberley? Hindi ko kasi maramdaman!!! Ang home para sa akin ay Philippines. Kaya lang paraang minsan nararamdaman ko, parang naglalaho na sya... nag aalala ako, Baka hindi ko na sya mabalikan muli. Paano na? hmmmm. tama na nga....kainis. na ho-home sick tuloy ako! . . . . . . . .
Alberta Saturday, September 17, 2005
Nakarating kami sa Kimberley September 18, 2005 Hating gabi na.Tapos na ang mahabang biyahe. Balik nanaman sa dating routine. Balik
nanaman sa comfort zone. Alam ko, pansin ninyo na lagi na akong
nag-tatagalog. Parang hindi ako ano? Kung ikaw nasa kalagayan ko, kung
saan English nalang ang salita ng lahat 24 hours a day, gusto mo kung
maaari, mag Tagalog o kaya mag Ilokano kung merong pagkakataon. Yan ang
update ko for now. Next month nalang ulit. Sana makakuha ako ng mga
Autumn pictures. Nag umpisa na kasi ang Autumn noon September 22.
Malamig na ulit ang simoy ng hangin. Medyo maulan nanaman. Parang
ayokong pakawalan ang summer. Such is life. O, ano, e-mail ka naman.
Ayan updated ka na sa akin, Ikaw naman. Ciao! Masyado bang mahaba ang
e-mail ko? hehehe. Parang magkasama narin tayo diba? Keep in touch ok?
Noong una ko'ng nakarating sa bahay ng cliente ko - Yung highway sa harapan ng bahay ang una kong pinagmasdan, hawak ang yosi, lamig na lamig, yung gilid ng kalsada meron pang mga yelo. Lungkot ang unang dumapo puso ko -parang napaka layo na lahat ng mga mahal ko sa buhay. Pero ngayon, naisip ko, Plane ticket lang naman ang kelangan ko, pwede na ako umuwi. Mahal nga lang ang plane ticket. Malayong mas mahal pa yoong pamasahe, kesa yung magagasto pag nakauwi ako. In a few years, Uwi narin ako (sana). . . . . . . .
August 8, 2005
Me and My cousin Ben. He came over for a surprise visit. He was on his way to Calgary. I was so happy to see him. . . . . . .
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Nung nabisita ko Fernie for a Doctor's Appointment, I took this shot of the street. Wala lang. Halika, Lakad tayo. Tignan natin ang business strip. . . . . . . .
Palakad lakad Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Fernie BC, Pa rin ito. Just a minute away from where i took the previous picture.
. . . . . . .
. . . . . . .
.
. . . . . .
.
.
Ganda ng bundok ano? Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Sige na nga. Next event na. Puro Walkaton na tayo a. haha. . . . . . . .
Man & His House Thursday, August 11, 2005
Kaibigan ni Luke, binisita namin minsan. Mag-isa niyang ginawa ang bahay na ito, on his own. Bilib ako. na kaka impress. Mag-isa. Walang katulong. 3 years na raw niyang project ito. Hanggang ngayon ginagawa parin niya (malapit ng matapos). Ang galing ano? . . . . . . .
Mr. Phil Blanchette Thursday, August 11, 2005
Phil ang pangalan nya. Hindi ko sya gaano kilala, pero ang impression na iniwan niya sa akin nang nalaman ko ang kanyang achievements at discipline - Bow ako. Meron pa palang mga taong katulad nya! Kaya ang mga power tools mabili sa North America. Sila na mismo gagawa kung kaya nila. Sa pinas mag hire ka nalang ng Karpentero - mabuti pa. . . . . . . .
Camping Friday, August 12, 2005
Naisipan ni Luke na mag camping. O di segi. Mga campers dito laging may camper o trailer. Hindi na uso yung traditional na camping with tent. Lagi ng may trailer. Kung camping rin lang at auto ang dala , bakit pa camping ang tawag doon? ngee! Sa loob ng trailer, meron kitchen, TV, Microwave at kung ano ano pa. Meron pang friedge at bed at sofa. Ay sus! Camping ba iyon? hmmmm. Sa kanila camping nga. . . . . . . .
Reflections Friday, August 12, 2005
Sitting by the quiet waters just before the sun dims itself from the world. Once again I am left with my thoughts...what's it like on the other side.... . . . . . . .
Mr. Ron Fisher Saturday, August 13, 2005
A very very good friend of mine. Yun ang kanyang tent. Kakagising nya lang. . . . . . . .
Moyie Lake Saturday, August 13, 2005
At this time of the year, marami ang nag wa-water skiing, boating, fishing at uso ang water sports. Heto ako. Happy nalang na nanonood. Hindi Gaano exciting ang month na ito para sa akin. Puro trabaho ako at hindi ako naka pag day off ni minsan. Pero ok lang yon. Pumayag naman kasi ako e, kaya wala akong masisisi. Pero merong mga pag kakataon minsan, na hindi naman gaano kahirap ang trabaho. Patience lang talaga ang kelangan. O ayan, nagawa ko na ang special e-mail ko sa iyo for the month of August. Kelan ka naman sasagot? Alam mo naman na. Kaligayahan ko lang dito ay ang makatanggap ng e-mail. Kung forwarded e-mail rin lang, hwag na. Delete ko lang yon. Kahit maiksing Hi & Hello at kwento man lang ok na. Diba Groovy? Hee hee! Until next e-mail ulit!
Evening is fast coming. Darkness will come soon. So I drive home to make sure I get there before night falls. Then just 20 minutes before I arrive at my destination, I had to slow down ..... Then I had to stop. I had to experience this beauty. I had to take as much beauty of it as I can. Experiencing it - is priceless. No words can express. Just so Beautiful! . . . . . . . Ako ito - Hindi si Michael V. Wednesday, June 29, 2005 . . . . . . . Cottonwood Trees Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Cottonwood Trees - the white stuff are seeds floating down. It was a blithesome moment - me standing there - looking up. It was like seeing snow for the first time. . . . . . . . Life is Beautiful Saturday, July 09, 2005 . . . . . . . Photographs & Memories Sunday, July 10, 2005
That's Wilfred taking a picture of the Girls. And this is me taking a picture of Wilfred taking a picture of the girls. :-) ( ha ha ha ? ) . . . . . . .
Hello! Sunday, July 10, 2005
Everyone's saying hello to you! Each of these new friends of mine have a story to tell - but we all have something in common, we miss friends & family & familiar places in the Philippines. . . . . . . .
Edgar Lorenzo F. Nievera Sunday, July 10, 2005
Behind me is the Moyie Lake where a Railway train will pass after this picture's taken. At least ngayon, meron na akong mga kaibigan. Masarap may maka kwentuhan sa sariling wika. Mihirap na ang puro English kung magsalita, natatakot ako na baka sarili kong wika - maglaho. Maging mapurol. Hirap din kasi English nalang ng English araw araw. . . . . . . .
A Railway Train Sunday, July 10, 2005
Trains like these are all around the region. I was told that most of them transport coal all over Canada and Across USA. . . . . . . .
Eagles Sunday, July 10, 2005
I wonder, What do they see? . . . . . . .
Elko, BC Wednesday, July 13, 2005
A wonderful afternoon - enjoying the warmth of the sun on a marvelous trail. Thanks to my friend Ronald Grant Fisher, I am able to see what Elko, BC, Canada is really like up there in the footpaths leading up to the mountains. . . . . . . .
Nice boat eh? Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Kung nasa Canada ka, mapapansin mo, pag nagsalita ang mga tao laging may kasamang "ey" sa dulo ng sentence. Parang tayo kung sinabi nading "Diba?" - "Ang ganda ng hapon. Diba?" sa kanila naman "Ey?" - "it's a beautiful afternoon, eh?" . Pronounced like letter A.
Alam mo, natawa ako sa sarili ko minsan, dahil pagkatapos kong nagsalita, napansin ko pati ako, nag sasabi narin ng "ey!" . Naging conscious ulit ako, kaya ngayon normal nanaman ako mag english, wana na munag "ey?" .
Ala ey! ganito pala sa kanada ey! . . . . . . .
Summer Flowers by the Lake Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Habang naglalakad ako sa trail, Panay ang mga magagandang bulaklak na kusang tumutubo kung saan saan. Parang yung mga "weeds" sa kanila - pero napaka ganda kung scattered all over at ibat ibang kulay - nakaka inspire. Nature is so beautiful. Masarap ang summer. . . . . . . .
Fernie, BC Thursday, July 14, 2005
Fernie, BC is 1 1/2 hours away from Kimberley. I took this picture on a wonderful morning. . . . . . . .
Best Friends Friday, July 15, 2005
When I had time to get away, I went to Cranbrook and got to hang out with Rossini (she's the on in red) and Marivic and her little girl. It was a good afternoon by the park. . . . . . . .
Clowns of Kimberley Saturday, July 16, 2005
This was taken on a Parade in Kimberley on a sunny afternoon. I was on my way to buy milk when I saw a parade was taking place. Glad I had my Camera handy. Nakakatakot tignan ang clown ng matagal. Ewan ko sa inyo - pero para sa akin, na re-remind ako nung book ni Stephen King - "It". . . . . . . .
Scateboard Competition Sunday, July 17, 2005
Nagkaroon ng Scateboard competition kelan lang. Ang dami kong pictures na kinuha, pero pinaka gusto ito. Kasi napaka natural diba. Semplang! Aray kup! . . . . . . .
Debbie & Edgar Wednesday, July 20, 2005
Debbie takes over my work on my Day's off. Debbie is a nice person. She gave me Cookies and slippers to warm my feet on my Birthday last year. Her kindness touched my heart when I was so low. Para sa kanya, siguro isang box lang ng cookies at warm slippers. Pero para sa akin, ito ang pinaka unang birthday present ko sa Canada - just when I was starting from scratch. Hay grabe, that was 9 months ago. Bilis ng panahon ano? . . . . . . .
Bagong Hairdo Thursday, July 21, 2005
Bagong Hairdo, parang weirdo. Sabi Ni Lhea Luna (Taga Baguio din nasa Illinois) "ano nanamang gimmick yan at para kang sinabunutan ng sampung tao?" Ngee! akala ko cool yung hair. hehe. Sabi naman ni Annie Donato "Ay, galing, bagay mo". Hehehe. Pero magpapahaba ako ng buhok pang winter. Malamig sa Canada, kelangan may buhok ka. Di na uso ang kalbo dito. Goodbye Kalbo. Hello long hair! . . . . . . .
Little Wonders Thursday, July 21, 2005
Isang hapon, naisipan ko namang maging turista sa sarili kong lugar, tutal, hindi naman ako gaano lumalabas, kaya naisipan kong pumunta sa Marysville Falls (9 minutes away lang sa bahay). Merong mga nag swi-swimming (Ano! Ang lamig ng tubig no! brrr! parang yelo!). Nakita ko na may potential itong mga "weeds" na ito - kaya tutok ang camera at Click! tada! . . . . . . .
Cascading Waters Thursday, July 21, 2005
Summer's day - The water is supposed to be "good" (Ibig sabihin, hindi gaano malamig). Ewan ko sa kanila pero para sa akin - ngeee lamig!!!! . . . . . . .
Afternoon by the lake Saturday, July 23, 2005
Nakunan ko tong picture na ito sa isang Bird Sanctuary sa Elizabeth Lake sa Cranbrook, BC. Sa Tanda kong ito, Goose ba ito? *blush* . . . . . . .
Fernie on a Summer Day Sunday, July 24, 2005
Ito ang Historic Fernie Strip. Umuupo ako sa isa sa mga benches sa sidewalk. Pinagmamasdan ko ang lugar na ito. Para akong nasa isang dream. Ang mga tao ang gaganda, ang mga shops ang gaganda, ang weather maganda - lahat maganda. Pero heto lang ako. nakaupo - walang makausap. Hmmmp. Bili kaya ako ng I-pod? yun nalang ang kasama ko para naman meron akong soundtrack pag meron akong pinupuntahan? (kaya lang mahal ang i-pod e. wag nalang. pag ipunan ko nalang ang Lasik eye surgery! mas mabuti pa!) . . . . . . .
Seven Sisters Sunday, July 24, 2005
That's what the mountain is called. When i saw this, I took a shot so I could show you. This was taken on a trip headed to Calgary. Ang ganda kamo. Napaka ganda nito na hindi ito gaano pinapansin ng mga tao dito. Sa kanila, "wala lang" . . . . . . .
Proud Horse In Front of the Crowsnest Mountain Sunday, July 24, 2005
I don't recall the name of the mountain - but it sure makes a perfect picture. Parang gusto kong i frame ito. hehehe. Sabi ko sa horse. "hey, would you like to stand up straighter?. ok that's good, now chin-up please!" Oha! Hehee. . . . . . . .
Logs - Canada's Treasure Sunday, July 24, 2005
Ito ang mga nasa likod ko nung kunan ko ang dalawang bundok na nakita ninyo - mga logs. Pinapatuyo nila bago kukunin ng trucks at i-proproseso sa mga Wood Mills. Meron akong mga nakilalang mga tao na mga saw mill workers dito. Malaking kabuhayan ito sa mga Canadians. . . . . . . .
Highway to Calgary Sunday, July 24, 2005
Yehey! Papunta ako ng Calgary para naman makapag relax. Hirap na ang puro trabaho nalang. Sorry hindi ako pwede mag pi-picture habang nagtratrabaho kasi nakakahiya naman sa inaalagaan ko. Imagine mo ba naman, kung ikaw ang patiente na habang hindi ka makagalaw e, pinipicturan ka ng taga alaga mo - nakaka loko isipin diba? hehe. Kaya ayan wala akong pictures ng work. Ethics. . . . . . . .
House by the Rolling Hills Sunday, July 24, 2005
I saw this house from a rest stop on my way to Calgary. Ewan ko kung sino ang swerteng mayaman na nakatira sa mansion na ito. Napaka lawak ng view niya! Grabe endless rolling hills. Puro Green! Parang hindi ako makapaniwala sa lawak ng lugar na ito - tapos walang makitang tao halos. Empty. . . . . . . .
Mr. Park Gopher Sunday, July 24, 2005
Just Call him Ground Hog. Gopher ang tawag sa maliit na ito. Ang Cute cute! Mabait sila sa tao. Ito naman habang naglalakad ako, humihingi ng pagkain, sayang wala akong dalang pagkain. Marami sila, Kung saan saan makikita. Gumagawa sila ng tunnel sa ground at dun nagtatago. Cute! . . . . . . .
Rolled up Hays Sunday, July 24, 2005
Ready, Get set, Go!!!!!!! Common na makita ito over vast farm lands. Meron na silang mga hi-tech machines na nag ro-roll ng mga hays (to form a roll, hindi para mag race). Hindi na uso yung blocks of hays. Parang wala akong maalala na nakitang hay stacks along the way. Puro ganito. . . . . . . .
Calgary Morning Monday, July 25, 2005
Kinunan ko itong picture na ito on a sunny morning. Perfect day ito. Pagkatapos ng ilang buwan na nakatira ako sa isang munting liblib, parang biglang napaka laki na ng Calgary. . . . . . . .
Fly Away Monday, July 25, 2005
9 months ago, isa ako sa mga taong nakasakay sa eropalanong tulad nito. Kelan kaya ulit ako sasakay ng eroplano para naman makabisita sa Pilipinas at makapag biyahe sa iba't Ibang Dako ng Mundo?
Busy ang Calgary Skies dahil merong Airport dito. Puro Landing at Flight all day through. Astig ang City na ito. Buhay na buhay! . . . . . . .
A Road Sign for Elderly Pedestrians Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Natuwa ako nung nakita ko ito sa kalsada. Ang bait naman ng Canadians ano? Wala akong nakitang ganitong road sign sa Pinas. hehe. Cool. . . . . . . .
The Calgary Tower Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Meron palang restaurant sa Taas - kaya naisipan ko na dapat maka kain naman ako dun. Ano kaya ang feeling ng nasa taas? Balita ko meron daw silang VIEWING DECK na glass ang floor! dapat makita ko! Kaya bayad ako ng ticket ($11.50) at sakay na ng elevator. Hmmm. Exciting!
http://www.calgarytower.com/ . . . . . . .
PICTURE PICTURE! Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Ayan sabi ni ate Lucille mag lagay daw ako ng picture ko sa album. Ayan o. Pa cute ako sa isang art work hehe. Nakakasawa naman kasi mukha ko kaya hindi ako naglalagay gaano ng pic. Kasi parepareho naman hitsura ko e. hehe. . . . . . . .
View from Calgary Tower Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Heto na ako sa taas ng Calgary Tower. Nasa isang Special Restaurant (pa sosyal kuno - naka shorts at sando naman ako, at pudpod na ang swelas ng sapatos ko sa kakalakad!). Pero gandang ganda akodito. Dapat pala ito ang inuna naming pinuntahan noon nung kasama ko si Mama at si Auntie dito sa Calgary December 28 last year! Sayang hindi namin naranasan together. . . . . . . .
The Panorama Dining Room Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Oha! Sosi kamo! (Ngee - may budget kaya ako para dito?, Sana kasya ang dala ko *lunok*). Oh Waiter! A glass of water please! (hehehe).
Ang sarap mag lunch dito. Grabe. Umiikot ang panorama dining room. It takes 45 minutes for it to make a complete 350 Deg turn. So I had to make sure I stayed there for more than 45 minutes. Enjoy ko ang
Herb and Lemon Marinated Skinless Alberta Grilled Chicken Breast with Summer Mushroom Risotto and Zesty Sun Dried Tomato Vinaigrette. With Matching glass of wine. Sarap! Happy ako! . . . . . . .
Hulog ako!!!! Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Sa Glass View Deck Floor. Tandaan mo itong pic na ito. Kasi mamaya papakita ko naman ang pic nitong kung saan ako nakatayo looking down from the outside. Kanina lang andun ako sa baba, doon sa may red na kotse at dun ako tumitingala - kinukuhanan ko ng pic ang tower, ngayon heto na ako. Dapat pagkababa ko, kunan ko picture where I am now. Nakaka Hilo kamo. Kasi kahit na alam ko'ng safe at hindi ako mahuhulog sa baba, iba parin e, Parang umiikot ang sikmura ko! After a while, nasanay din ako. ayan. Click na picture! . . . . . . .
People - Like Ants Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Pedestrians on an outdoor mall. Kinailangan kong mag zoom para makuha ang shot na ito. Buti nalang maganda Camera ko. Sayang din pag hindi ko ma-share ito sa inyo. . . . . . . .
Zoom in from Below Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Ayan na! Zoom in ako from below. Yang nakikita ninyong naka usli na section ng tower, yan ang glass view deck. Kani-kanina lang dyan ako nakatayo at kinukuhanan ko naman ang picture pababa. Lakas ng Lens ko ano? . . . . . . .
Calgary Night Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Gabi na, Bili nalang ako ng Sandwich sa Subway (Yun yung name ng fast food sandwich place). Ito na dinner ko. Eto ako ngayon, nakaupo sa isang bench overlooking the night scene of Calgary (kapal ng Jacket ko, lamiggg). Alas dos na ng hapon sa Pilipinas. Dito mahimbing ng natutulog ang karamihan. *sigh*. Sana kasama ko kayo dito. Iba parin pag kasama mo ang friends & Family. Pero wala akong magagawa kundi mag picture. O At least you see what I see oha?. I will always remember this. Always. It's been a perfect day. . . . . . . .
Ron Looking at Calgary Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Next day - Heto naman ako sa ibang angle ng Calgary. Perfect spot. Merong river in front at ang busy highway. Yung mama sa Picture, yan ang mabuti kong kaibigan na si Ron. Sya ang nag host nitong Trip kong ito. Kung hindi dahil sa Kanya, hindi ako naka punta ng Calgary para makapag liwaliw. Syempre kanya kanyang bayad parin kami - pero Sasakyan nya ang ginamit namin at baka daw masiraan ang sasakyan ko. Ang swerte ko ano? meron pa akong guide!
Kaya lang malungkot ako ng konti, kasi babalik na ulit ako ng Kimberley at the end of the Day. Trabaho nanaman. *sigh* . . . . . . .
Freedom - I Love you! Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Ayan - pabalik na ako ng Kimberley sa aking Mahal na mahal na Kotseng Kalawangin. "Freedom" ang tawag ko sa kanya. Minsan nasira ang tambutcho nya! Haaay!! ang ingay! PInagtitinginan ako ng mga tao. Buti nalang naayos na! Super quiet nanaman sya ngayon. Kelangan ko na rin magpalit ng Gulong before winter - ang dami narin namin napuntahan ni Freedom. . . . . . . .
Pinsan ni Mr. Park Gopher - Si Ms. Wasa Gopher Thursday, July 28, 2005
Pagkabalik ng Kimberley at pagkatapos ng nakakapagod na umaga sa trabaho the next day, Napunta ako ng Lake Wasa para magpalamig sa lake - Summer ang init! Nakita ko nanaman ang munting Gopher na ito. Mukhang maganda ang lighting sa kanya kaya ayan. *Click* . . . . . . .
O ayan, Nasagot na kita nung tinanong mo ako ng "Kamusta?" Sunday, August 21, 2005
So far, yan muna ang kwento ko for the month of July 2005. Sa wakas natapos ko rin ang album na ito. Nag Umpisa ako noong Aug 21. Aug 24 na nung matapos ko ang mga captions. Oha! Say mo, pinaghirapan ko itong "e-mail" ko para sa iyo, para naman in-touch tayo at updated sa isa't isa. By the end of August I will work on August Album naman. Salamat sa mga texts at e-mails! Please keep in touch ok?
May 13, 2005 - Went Biking into a forest reservation and found myself getting deeper and deeper into the forest. I realized that I missed the supposed exit that was supposed to lead me be back to the highway an hour ago.
.
.
May 13, 2005 - It was getting dark. I was worried there would be bears. I was told
that people got killed by these animals. And since I was biking by
myself, you could just imagine the fear and anxiety I put myself
through.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
May 13, 2005 - Was constantly on the lookout for bears. Overall the forest reservation area was pretty much devoid of any human presence. It was beautiful being out and surrounded by trees. I tried to focus on appreciating mother nature instead of dwelling on my worse fears about getting killed by wild animals. My lack of knowledge of the Canadian wilderness brought me here. Well I am certainly learning it the hard way now.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
May 13, 2005 - I was tired from biking for more than an hour and so I decided to take a break. Smoke my cigarette. Drink my water. Appreciate my surroundings and head on back to where I started. That's about 45 minutes away on a bike. Oh boy. The darkness of the night was coming.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
May 13, 2005 - My worse fear - A bear (a cub). My immediate thought. A cub must have its mother close by. I won't stand a chance if it attacked me. I remember the cold sweat and the fear. It was necessary that I be calm and quiet enough to go undetected and be fast enough to get away. When I had my chance, I got on my bike and pushed my pedals as hard as I could. I think I scared the cub when I started biking as fast as I could to get past it because it climbed the tree so fast and made some crying noises. The cubs cry for help scared me because I wouldn't want mother bear running after me and killing me. No one would hear me scream for help in this place. I never saw the mother bear. I never looked back. I think I kept pedaling like mad for half an hour. faster and faster as the darkness was fast coming. That was a lesson I will never forget. I certainly didn't come to Canada only to be killed by a bear.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
May 18, 2006 - Spring is in the air and Summer is near. Dandelions abloom. I found these flowers growing all over the place. It was so beautiful!!! To my horror, everyone in the neighborhood including my employer started mowing it down! I asked why they were cutting such beautiful flowers and I was told that they were weeds. They certainly didn't fit my idea of what weeds are supposed to look like. It was with sadness to see them get lawn mowed.... ah.. the death of beauty. They have gone mad!
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
This is where I live. I have my own basement suite where I spend most of my time in front of my computer doing all sorts of stuff like this blog. Send me a postcard or snail mail will you? my address is 8801 Highway 95A Kimberley, BC, V1A 3M6, Canada
.
.
.
.
.
.
I took this when Luke and I headed to Calgary for his Doctor's Appointment.
Pay attention to episodes in nature that kindle an inner spark of awe and admiration. You don't have to discuss it with another being. If it has meaning to you, it's valid. Listen to the wind, the critters, the rain, and the ocean. Listen to it all. ~1
.
.
April 13, 2005 - Wasa Lake. The warmer weather is Finally here. Some of the snow has melted already. I bring a book, some beverage, a pack of cigarettes and just spent the afternoon by the lake. The lake is still too cold to swim in though. . . . . .
.
April 13, 2005 - My Client sitting in the front room of his
home in Kimberley, BC. His health has improved a lot since I've
arrived. Mostly because now he can sleep better knowing he can call for
help when he can not move.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Driving Alone on A Long trip in Canada - A First Time Experience
.
April 23, 2005
Now that I have my car, I Went driving places all by myself today. It was my day off. I
started my round trip at 9:00 AM and got back to Kimberley at 10:00 PM.
It was a wonderful feeling just enjoying this sense of empowerment. I can now drive to places hours and hours away and I am
free to explore. I worried of course about the car breaking down as it is an old car (and an Oldsmobile brand too ha ha ha) but I knew that If that happened, I will know what to do anyway. I have a brain, I can figure it out.
For $5 I bought 2 teen burgers with fries (on promo) for my "breakfast, lunch and dinner". I listened to oldies music as I drove and smoked my marlboro golds from the Philippines. Oh boy - what a great day.
From Kimberley I drove to Cranbrook, then to Creston, Crossed the
Kootenay Lake on a Ferry from Crawford Bay to Nelson City (where I
explored the city with much delight because it reminded me of Baguio)
then to Salmo and then back to Creston and Cranbrook and then
Kimberley.
.
.
.
.
Enjoying Moyie Lake from the side of the road
.
.
Creston, BC - oh my! my face! It's huge!! now I know I have really gained weight
.
.
The Kootenay Lake
.
.
Waiting for the Ferry Ride (Free). Made me realize how rich Canada is. How fortunate I am to be living here. Then I got angry at the thought of how all those corrupt government officials in power in the Philippines and corrupt businesses are living like kings and queens when all the rest of the country is in poverty.. We don't have FREE Ferry rides like this. No unpolluted and clean lakes to cross..arghhh.. never mind.
.
.
Other vehicles starting to line up for the ferry. I was the second one to arrive. I was 30 minutes too early. So I got on the mountain bike that i borrowed from Luke and started exploring the area. It was fun!
.
.
Finally the ferry is here. We had to wait for it to unload all those vehicles before we got inside
.
.
The Ferry Man - directing where everyone should park
.
.
This is the car in front of me. I decided to explore
.
.
The ferry had a second floor where they had a cafeteria. I took this photo on my way there. I bought coffee and went outside to enjoy the cool breeze and just love the lake. All this traveling and all by myself - a stranger to all these! I love the Canadian experience (It's fun and exciting but It would have been nicer If I had someone to share the experience with).
.
.
Drove to Nelson City. This is their City Hall.
.
.
The 1987 movie ROXANNE was shot in this town. It was really quite lovely. I could imagine myself living in Nelson. Just the right size and it has almost all the facilities one needs. Plus the people are so hip and alive. It reminds me of Baguio.
.
.
Nelson, BC - I took this as I was taking a break from exploring the city on a mountain bike. I wished I could have stayed the night but I needed to get back to work as I was expected to work tomorrow. So off I go. A lot more hours to drive before I get back.
.
.
April 23, 2005
It was a truly empowering experience that made me feel closer to God. I drove in silence. Just my thoughts and my prayers and my awareness of how truly beautiful these places are. I know that God gave me everything I need to make it in this world and that the key is to find out how to use them. Thank you God.
I got back to Kimberley around 10:00 PM. I was tired. What a great day it was
.
.
.
. .
April 30, 2005 - Had the opportunity to visit Sparwood, BC on our way to Calgary. I was invited to join Ate Rossini, Marcel and Joann to attend a birthday party there. So on my day off, I was able to join the trip. It was fun!
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
April 30, 2005 - This photo was taken by Rossini when we were in Sparwood. Myself, Marcel & Joann
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
April 30, 2005 - The Birthday Party in Calgary. I was shocked to see so many fellow Filipinos there. This was a huge party. It filled an entire Gym! There were probably 500 Filipinos there! It was wonderful to be able to speak in Filipino once again! When I was there, It felt as if I went back to the Philippines. It was an amazing experience.
.
.
.
~1. Dr. Wayne W. Dyer, Inspiration (Hay House, Inc. 2006)
I made peace with silence and reminded myself that it is in this space that I will come to remember my spirit. When I am able to transcend an aversion to silence, I know I will also transcend many other miseries. And it is in this silence that the remembrance of God will be activated.
.
.
Only 4 months since I've arrived in Canada and already I have gained nearly 30 lbs from 150 to 177 (pushing 180). I didn't even realize I had gotten as fat as I did.
.
I looked at myself in the mirror and saw absolutely nothing wrong until I realized that I was always tired and that my heels were always painful. I couldn't walk properly anymore or stand on my feet too long because my heels kept hurting. The pain kept me from doing more than what I wanted with my days. I started dragging my feet when I walked...I was too heavy for my own good.
.
.
.
.
.
Took this picture in one of those days off work. This was taken in Fort Steele, BC. A historic "ghost" town.
. . . . . . .
An old abandoned house from the past. Just imagine, people used to live there. There were memories built from this once "home" I was by myself when I was exploring Fort Steele. The quietness of the place made me realize all those people who once lived there must be dead by now. What did they learn from life I wonder.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Joann and I watched hockey. It was the first time I've actually watched a hockey game and the first time I've heard the Canadian National Anthem played and sang.
Recent Comments