Description:
One of the recipes posted on Self Sufficient Group. Original post on Examiner dot com.
By: Elizabeth Jones, Nashville Budget Meals Examiner
Eating out is one of the first things to go when cutting the budget, but you don’t have to sacrifice a decadent dessert just because you’re eating at home. Velvet Chocolate Cake is a simple little concoction that has a velvety texture and a delightfully full chocolate flavor that encompasses the senses and is in a word; simply perfect! The texture is smooth and silky; the flavor a robust chocolate without any bitterness and it is a snap to prepare!
Ingredients:
* ¾ cup milk chocolate chips (Ghirardelli preferably)
* ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips (Ghirardelli preferably)
* 6 tablespoons butter (no substitutes)
* 3 tablespoon flour
* 3 eggs separated
* 4 tablespoons sugar
* ¼ teaspoon baking powder
* 1 teaspoon vanilla
Directions:
Melt chocolate chips and butter together either over a double boiler or in the microwave.
Stir until smooth.
Stir in flour and baking powder, stir well until sooth.
Blend in egg yolks one at a time, blending well after each.
Beat egg whites till foamy.
Add sugar 1 tablespoon at a time being sure to beat well after each.
Beat egg whites till soft peaks form, do not over beat.
Gently fold egg whites into chocolate mixture and gently but completely combine.
Pour into an 8 inch cake pan that has been buttered and floured.
Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes check for doneness, a broom straw or cake tester should come out clean when inserted into the middle of the cake. Most likely the cake will need to bake for about 5 more minutes but keep a very close eye on it, you do not want this cake to over bake!
Allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pan and then turn over onto a cake rack and allow to cool upside down on cake rack till cool. You may need to tap the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to gently dislodge the cake if it does not release on its own.
Glaze with Chocolate glaze recipe below.
Chocolate Glaze
* ¾ cup milk chocolate chips
* ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1 to 2 tablespoons water
Melt chips and then add butter, blend until smooth.
Add one tablespoon of water and blend well, if glaze is thin enough to pour then glaze done. If glaze is still too thick to pour then add a little at a time of the remaining tablespoon of water till glaze is the consistency you desire.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Ranch Log: Catching up on Ranch Chores and Projects.
It's been 3 days since I've done any ranch chores while I was a the Marianas Grazing and Livestock Academy Workshops at the university. After I did my morning checks this morning and pastured out the goats to the South Side. I looked over my chores and projects list. There's a lot. Work on the ranch never stops. I finished off the chores in the morning and after lunch, worked on some emergency projects.
I fixed my wind damaged canopy to my ranch shack. I didn't use bungees to stretch it out and resecure it to the poles. I just used some 1/4 inch plastic yellow rope to secure it to the poles. It looked good with the weaving going back and forth from the canopy to the poles. I'll have to get more yellow rope to finish off the arched ends.
I planted another Saba Banana tree on the South Side. I had pulled this sucker from it's mother on Tuesday. I meant to transplant it that same day but had other issues to deal with. So I placed it under the ranch shack for the mean time. Today, I planted it or else I may never get to it.
I cut some brown coconuts open for the free range poultry and the two ranch pups. It's amazing how fast the chickens, guineas, and duck come over when I start cutting open the coconuts with the axe. I opened about 8 and placed them at strategic locations on the ranch. So all of the poultry will get a chance to get their fill. I gave the two pups their coconut halves. Yes, my ranch pups eat coconuts. I don't know where they learned to eat, but they like eating it. So when ever I cut coconuts open, I make sure the pups get their share. Or, they'll be chasing the poultry away to get their coconuts. Strange dogs, I have.
I scouted out the South Side, looking for a place to plant my improved Tangantangan trees from Australia. I think their called, Lucena Tambara. A new develped species for livestock forage. The seeds I have are not going to be for forage. It's for me to collect seeds to plant. I'll have to protect these trees from the goats. I'll plant it tomorrow.
Keep Smiling
I fixed my wind damaged canopy to my ranch shack. I didn't use bungees to stretch it out and resecure it to the poles. I just used some 1/4 inch plastic yellow rope to secure it to the poles. It looked good with the weaving going back and forth from the canopy to the poles. I'll have to get more yellow rope to finish off the arched ends.
I planted another Saba Banana tree on the South Side. I had pulled this sucker from it's mother on Tuesday. I meant to transplant it that same day but had other issues to deal with. So I placed it under the ranch shack for the mean time. Today, I planted it or else I may never get to it.
I cut some brown coconuts open for the free range poultry and the two ranch pups. It's amazing how fast the chickens, guineas, and duck come over when I start cutting open the coconuts with the axe. I opened about 8 and placed them at strategic locations on the ranch. So all of the poultry will get a chance to get their fill. I gave the two pups their coconut halves. Yes, my ranch pups eat coconuts. I don't know where they learned to eat, but they like eating it. So when ever I cut coconuts open, I make sure the pups get their share. Or, they'll be chasing the poultry away to get their coconuts. Strange dogs, I have.
I scouted out the South Side, looking for a place to plant my improved Tangantangan trees from Australia. I think their called, Lucena Tambara. A new develped species for livestock forage. The seeds I have are not going to be for forage. It's for me to collect seeds to plant. I'll have to protect these trees from the goats. I'll plant it tomorrow.
Keep Smiling
Friday, January 29, 2010
Now my back is hurting really bad from the base of my neck to my lower back. Feels tight with lots of pressure on my spine. have a slight fever too. The cold AC the last couple of days, with the hard breeze today, just chilled me to the bone. Took both my back pain meds, but still hurting. I can't have this...I'm fighting back...mentally and spiritually.
Marianas Grazing and Livestock Management Academy: Day 3
The class spent the day at the San Agustin Ranch in Dededo going over most of what we were taught in the classroom into practice. We were shown the proper techniques on how to correctly obtain soil samples on the pasture or paddock. How to get grass samples, which is similar to getting soil samples.
It started raining right after we arrived at the ranch demo site. We had an impromptu information session at the ranch house, while the rain squall passed. I was able to see the per for the Muscovy ducks and the goat herd. Later one, we were able to see the cattle.
We saw the different types of grasses on pasture, what an actual forb looked like, and compared the different typed of grasses in the pasture. We calculated stocking rates for certain pastures and did a pasture walk to see the cattle herd at the far end. There is a lot of things to take into consideration when raising livestock.
At the demo site, we watched as the team demonstrated proper techniques when using the 3 gallon backpack for spraying herbicides, the different types of herbicides in their respective containers and safety gear. What was neat was seeking the parasite egg under the microscope at 1000x, that was taken from goat manure sample.
There was some snacks and drinks brought down by the host rancher. Later a whole spread for lunch was brought down. That was something. Really good chow. We took some group pictures and received our certificates. At the end of the day.
It was a great workshop. I'm looking forward to the next one, in August. I'm going to looking closely at what the ranchers in the U.S. Virgin Islands are doing. .
It started raining right after we arrived at the ranch demo site. We had an impromptu information session at the ranch house, while the rain squall passed. I was able to see the per for the Muscovy ducks and the goat herd. Later one, we were able to see the cattle.
We saw the different types of grasses on pasture, what an actual forb looked like, and compared the different typed of grasses in the pasture. We calculated stocking rates for certain pastures and did a pasture walk to see the cattle herd at the far end. There is a lot of things to take into consideration when raising livestock.
At the demo site, we watched as the team demonstrated proper techniques when using the 3 gallon backpack for spraying herbicides, the different types of herbicides in their respective containers and safety gear. What was neat was seeking the parasite egg under the microscope at 1000x, that was taken from goat manure sample.
There was some snacks and drinks brought down by the host rancher. Later a whole spread for lunch was brought down. That was something. Really good chow. We took some group pictures and received our certificates. At the end of the day.
It was a great workshop. I'm looking forward to the next one, in August. I'm going to looking closely at what the ranchers in the U.S. Virgin Islands are doing. .
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Marianas Grazing and Livestock Management Academy: Day 2
Today, the AC was just as cold as yesterday in the classroom. I was wearing jeans, long sleeve, and boots. Yet, the AC still chilled me. Stood in the sun in the courtyard of the CALS building to get warm during breaks and lunch.
The information decimated today was on above of what I had expected. I enjoyed listening to each workshop topic. This morning the presentations included: Basic Principals of Weed Management; Livestock Health-Pinkeye, Bloat, and Foot Rot; and Field Fecal Examination for Diagnosis of Parasitic Infections.
We received a little history on the use of herbicides and how it has come full circle since the early days of herbicidal use. Where animals were used for weed control, then potent chemicals, to safer chemicals, and then back to animals using multi-species grazing to control weeds. Most of the health care issues taught this morning also related to small ruminants which I am familiar with. Most of the fecal exams, I already knew. What was interesting to me was the new field microscope and centrifugal machine that the presenter showed us. I'll have to invest in one a set of those. But it was still great to hear a different perspective to what I already knew.
A couple of the women ranchers brought snacks and lunch for the attendees and presenters. That was really nice and cool of them. The breads were homemade Sun Flower Seed and Sweet Onion Bread. The Sun Flower Bread tasted really good. The Sweet Onion Bread...well, it was a blessing and I ate it...that's all I'm going to say.
The afternoon we touched on topics: Beef Quality and Marketing; Breed Characteristics of Beef Cattle, Animal Science 101, and End of Seminar Survey. It was great to see the standard that Hawaii is using for it's Grass Fed Beef Industry. Most of the work was done by the cattle association in Hawaii. All we have to do on the Marianas Islands is to follow their approach and tweak it to our advantage.
The next topic surprised me. I thought I was well versed on the different cattle breeds, especially the Continental or Western Breeds the Bos Taurus and the Asian Breed the Bos Indicus. Like you, I knew of Angus Charolais, Hereford, Simmental from the Bos Taurus. Then the Brahma, Beefmaster, Brangus, and Santa Gertrudis. I was surprised to learn of a breed that was developed in the U.S. Virgin Islands in the early 1900's called the Senepol. The traits for the Senepol is exactly what the Marianas Islands needs for our growing cattle industry.
Animals Science 101 was basically definitions. That's a needed workshop to get all the producers and presenters on the same page when talking about cattle or livestock. They should have really put that topic at the beginning of the seminar.
The last topic was just our end of summary questions rating what we would like to see in future workshops. The Academy Team will be back this Fall for another series of workshops. This is a two year project, and their trying to extend it for a couple of more years.
In the meantime between workshops, I'm going to help get the Guahan Livestock Association get started on Guam. The Northern Marianas Islands are already ahead of us in getting started. We need an organization to help the local ranchers with new information and techniques that are working on similar climates and geography. I was also invited to be on the Advisory team for the MGL Academy.
We have one more day of class. Tomorrow, we'll be doing some field work at a ranch in Dededo Village.
Keep Smiling
The information decimated today was on above of what I had expected. I enjoyed listening to each workshop topic. This morning the presentations included: Basic Principals of Weed Management; Livestock Health-Pinkeye, Bloat, and Foot Rot; and Field Fecal Examination for Diagnosis of Parasitic Infections.
We received a little history on the use of herbicides and how it has come full circle since the early days of herbicidal use. Where animals were used for weed control, then potent chemicals, to safer chemicals, and then back to animals using multi-species grazing to control weeds. Most of the health care issues taught this morning also related to small ruminants which I am familiar with. Most of the fecal exams, I already knew. What was interesting to me was the new field microscope and centrifugal machine that the presenter showed us. I'll have to invest in one a set of those. But it was still great to hear a different perspective to what I already knew.
A couple of the women ranchers brought snacks and lunch for the attendees and presenters. That was really nice and cool of them. The breads were homemade Sun Flower Seed and Sweet Onion Bread. The Sun Flower Bread tasted really good. The Sweet Onion Bread...well, it was a blessing and I ate it...that's all I'm going to say.
The afternoon we touched on topics: Beef Quality and Marketing; Breed Characteristics of Beef Cattle, Animal Science 101, and End of Seminar Survey. It was great to see the standard that Hawaii is using for it's Grass Fed Beef Industry. Most of the work was done by the cattle association in Hawaii. All we have to do on the Marianas Islands is to follow their approach and tweak it to our advantage.
The next topic surprised me. I thought I was well versed on the different cattle breeds, especially the Continental or Western Breeds the Bos Taurus and the Asian Breed the Bos Indicus. Like you, I knew of Angus Charolais, Hereford, Simmental from the Bos Taurus. Then the Brahma, Beefmaster, Brangus, and Santa Gertrudis. I was surprised to learn of a breed that was developed in the U.S. Virgin Islands in the early 1900's called the Senepol. The traits for the Senepol is exactly what the Marianas Islands needs for our growing cattle industry.
Animals Science 101 was basically definitions. That's a needed workshop to get all the producers and presenters on the same page when talking about cattle or livestock. They should have really put that topic at the beginning of the seminar.
The last topic was just our end of summary questions rating what we would like to see in future workshops. The Academy Team will be back this Fall for another series of workshops. This is a two year project, and their trying to extend it for a couple of more years.
In the meantime between workshops, I'm going to help get the Guahan Livestock Association get started on Guam. The Northern Marianas Islands are already ahead of us in getting started. We need an organization to help the local ranchers with new information and techniques that are working on similar climates and geography. I was also invited to be on the Advisory team for the MGL Academy.
We have one more day of class. Tomorrow, we'll be doing some field work at a ranch in Dededo Village.
Keep Smiling
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Marianas Grazing and Livestock Management Academy: Day 1
I attended the Marianas Grazing and Livestock and Management Workshop today at the Agriculture and Life Science Building at the University of Guam. For some reason, even though I took my time to get to the workshop, I was still early. I registered, picked up my huge binder, and got my name tag.
I met the presenters and other members of the MGLM Team. I talked with Lawrence Duponche from the Northern Marianas College Cooperative Extension Service. A very knowledgeable person. I met Dr. Mark Thorne, UH Extension Specialist; Dr. Jonathan Deenik, UH Extension Specialist; Dr. Bob Godfrey, UV Animal Science; Glen Fukumoto, UH Extension Agent: and John Powley, UH Extension Agent.
I met up with friends and acquaintances again. I even met one of my English teachers from high school, Mrs. V. I was in her class way back in the day. It was great catching up with her and her husband.
Today's topics touched on Soil and Soil Management, Plant Growth Basics and Forage Resources, and Principles of Grazing Management. There was a lot of information decimated to the group of ranchers and other attendees. They even let us try this new calculator looking device. That allows us to answer multiple questions that are posted on the screen and shows the percentage of our answers. Pretty Cool.
I learned a lot during today's workshop. I didn't realize that there were 3 types of grass. Before today, anything I cut with the bushcutter is considered grass. Now, after the workshop I was out on the pasture looking at what types of grass I have. I have lots of forbs and shrubs, very little of the grass and grass likes.
Even the soil class, well I knew a little about my soil. But I learned more about the clay, sand, and how soil came about. It was interesting...But without the coffee hit...I would have knocked out right there in front of the presenter. I even had to pray silently for help to keep my eyes open. I have to give credit to the presenter for making it sound interesting and fun. I am going to have to take this course to finish up on my Agriculture Degree someday.
I was more interested in the Principles of Grazing Management. I didn't realize that there was so much to consider in regards to grazing. I already knew about the "Take Half, Leave Half" concept. I didn't realize about the Grazing Intensity/Frequency/Harvest Efficiency/Growth Seasons. I thought you just pastured the livestock out on the paddock and let them eat what's out there. Now, I know...
The best part of these workshops/seminars is networking with the other ranchers. I learned from talking with Mrs. V, that she has a ranch in the Philippines. She and her husband are raising goats and ducks. Another rancher I met, is my cousin, whom I've never met before. He lived right next door to my family's first house. He remembers me being a small kid running around the yard. I am invited to see his cattle ranch anytime.
Let y'all know what happens tomorrow.
Keep Smiling
I met the presenters and other members of the MGLM Team. I talked with Lawrence Duponche from the Northern Marianas College Cooperative Extension Service. A very knowledgeable person. I met Dr. Mark Thorne, UH Extension Specialist; Dr. Jonathan Deenik, UH Extension Specialist; Dr. Bob Godfrey, UV Animal Science; Glen Fukumoto, UH Extension Agent: and John Powley, UH Extension Agent.
I met up with friends and acquaintances again. I even met one of my English teachers from high school, Mrs. V. I was in her class way back in the day. It was great catching up with her and her husband.
Today's topics touched on Soil and Soil Management, Plant Growth Basics and Forage Resources, and Principles of Grazing Management. There was a lot of information decimated to the group of ranchers and other attendees. They even let us try this new calculator looking device. That allows us to answer multiple questions that are posted on the screen and shows the percentage of our answers. Pretty Cool.
I learned a lot during today's workshop. I didn't realize that there were 3 types of grass. Before today, anything I cut with the bushcutter is considered grass. Now, after the workshop I was out on the pasture looking at what types of grass I have. I have lots of forbs and shrubs, very little of the grass and grass likes.
Even the soil class, well I knew a little about my soil. But I learned more about the clay, sand, and how soil came about. It was interesting...But without the coffee hit...I would have knocked out right there in front of the presenter. I even had to pray silently for help to keep my eyes open. I have to give credit to the presenter for making it sound interesting and fun. I am going to have to take this course to finish up on my Agriculture Degree someday.
I was more interested in the Principles of Grazing Management. I didn't realize that there was so much to consider in regards to grazing. I already knew about the "Take Half, Leave Half" concept. I didn't realize about the Grazing Intensity/Frequency/Harvest Efficiency/Growth Seasons. I thought you just pastured the livestock out on the paddock and let them eat what's out there. Now, I know...
The best part of these workshops/seminars is networking with the other ranchers. I learned from talking with Mrs. V, that she has a ranch in the Philippines. She and her husband are raising goats and ducks. Another rancher I met, is my cousin, whom I've never met before. He lived right next door to my family's first house. He remembers me being a small kid running around the yard. I am invited to see his cattle ranch anytime.
Let y'all know what happens tomorrow.
Keep Smiling
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Enzo's Weapons
These currently are my weapons of choice for hunting and protection. I am a member of the National Rifle Association and a firm believer in the 2nd Amendment. My first weapon on top is a Saiga .410 Semi-Automatic Shotgun. It is a smooth bore barrel as are most shotguns. It is made in Russia and imported to the USA. It comes with two magazines, but I got a deal with four. I know, only three are shown. I have used this hunting wild pig and deer at the bottom lands. Like the Russian AK models, this weapon can get dirty and still fire. I like the 410 because it's light weight. The caliber is smaller than the 12, 10, or 20 gauge models. Which means, I have to be dead on center of target before I pull the trigger. There are only 4 Saiga 410 SG's on island being used for hunting.
My second weapon in the middle is a Marlin .22 Rifle Model 795. It is my primary hunting weapon. I am very good with the iron sights, deadlier with the BSA Red Dot Scope, when it's mounted.
I can shoot on the move, which is hard to do for some who have never done it. It's a taught skill. It's not really shooting while moving. It's actually move, pause, shoot, move. One of my platoon sergeants came from a Ranger Bat (75th Ranger Battalion) and taught my platoon that skill during my paratrooper days at Ft. Bragg. I remember I hated the training because it was always done, slow and by the numbers. I understood the reason for it. But when we started going full speed. It really looks like the guys are shooting on the move. It happens so fast.
I don't hunt to quell an itch. I hunt to eat. I also use my Marlin to put down feral/stray dogs that come into the ranch and harass my livestock. I can say that I have killed more feral/stray dogs than wild pigs/deer with the Marlin. At least, I get some good training in, before the hunts.
My third weapon at the bottom is a Springfield XD40 Semi-automatic Pistol. It is made in Croatia and distributed in the USA by Springfield Armory. This model uses .40 S&W ammunition. It's very light and dependable. It has 2 noticeable safeties and 2 more within the weapon itself. I have already used this weapon in self-defense, over a year ago. No, I didn't fire. I did draw it and the other guy, from the outer islands, with a machete, backed off. He was inside my ranch in the South Side. I carry this weapon with me when I go to the bottom lands or the back ranch. It is always within reach where ever I go. If it's not on me. It is very close by.
A couple of accessories that I've shown are my Tasco binoculars. It is very handy in the jungle. To the right of that is my belt holster for the XD40. Not shown are my double magazine holster for the XD40 and my red dot scope.
The wild pig skull above is from a sow that I shot last year around July. Duchess had moved in to bait one of the pigs to chase her, while I took aim. This was an Alpha Sow because she chased Duchess while the other pigs stayed back. I took a head shot on this one. You could see the bullet entry hole above the right eye socket. If you're looking for the right eye socket. It's the only one in the picture, staring at you. 
The bigger skull is from a domestic boar that a friend was trying to kill with his 22 rifle. I don't like animals suffering. So after, the third shot that failed to put down the boar. I used my 410 and shot it with a slug. The boar dropped where it stood. Sometimes, you need to have the right tools to get the job done properly without putting the animal into to much stress. I didn't eat that pig because I knew the meat was already tainted. One day, when I went back to this friend's ranch. He gave me the skull. So I now I have it. I'm not much into keeping trophies. I hunt to eat, not to gain trophies.
But, I figured since I want my children to be hunters. I'll have to start taking pictures and collecting trophies for them to see and learn.
Keep Smiling
Brown Tree Snake.
This is the picture of the 6 feet plus long snake I killed a week ago. I thought it was 4 feet long, until we measured it. Looks like it's still moving, huh. It's dead. I shot it in the head, point blank. I think my ranch pups ate it, coz it wasn't there on the tin that evening after I took this picture. 
Here's a frontal shot. Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Due to Economics...I'm selling my livestock.
Due to financial issues, I'm selling my goat herd. I hope things will get better after this sale. But, I know the money will never be enough. I've been going through this month after month. Yet, things seem to be piling up. It's hard to be positive when everyone around you are pessimists.
I am still hoping for the best.
I am still hoping for the best.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Who Do I Serve?
Some of you may have noticed that I'm getting more vocal in my blogs or other posts, regarding the planned military buildup for Guam. I'm a Patriot, who served my time with the U.S. Military from 1987 to 1995. I'm a disabled combat veteran to top it off. I am an American. I love the USA. But recent and upcoming events have made me rethink, who do I serve.
A lot of buildup supporters call the protesters whiners. I don't think that's the case. These protesters are standing up for their Rights. I do believe that protesting is a First Amendment Right. A lot of the buildup supporters are looking at dollar signs, the almighty plunging dollar. To the residents and landowners, who are against the buildup, it's about our quality of life, our culture, our island, and our children's future. Everyone who spoke up against the military buildup at the public hearings stated that they are not anti-military, anti-USA, or unpatriotic. They are Patriotic Americans fighting for their lands and lifestyle. To call them anything else amounts to socialism.
A friend of mine, stated to me, that half the protesters are on food stamps or welfare. But why does that matter. Because they maybe on welfare, does that disqualify them from exercising their God-given Rights? I don't think it should. Does that make them lesser Americans. It really amazes me what I hear from the supporters of the buildup.
I'm really proud of a group of young adults who formed a community group called, We Are Guahan. These young individuals got together to read the entire Draft Environment Impact Study. After they did their research, they stood up at the public hearings and spoke out against the buildup using facts and busting myths held within the DEIS. That's a job well done.
A lot of buildup supporters call the protesters whiners. I don't think that's the case. These protesters are standing up for their Rights. I do believe that protesting is a First Amendment Right. A lot of the buildup supporters are looking at dollar signs, the almighty plunging dollar. To the residents and landowners, who are against the buildup, it's about our quality of life, our culture, our island, and our children's future. Everyone who spoke up against the military buildup at the public hearings stated that they are not anti-military, anti-USA, or unpatriotic. They are Patriotic Americans fighting for their lands and lifestyle. To call them anything else amounts to socialism.
A friend of mine, stated to me, that half the protesters are on food stamps or welfare. But why does that matter. Because they maybe on welfare, does that disqualify them from exercising their God-given Rights? I don't think it should. Does that make them lesser Americans. It really amazes me what I hear from the supporters of the buildup.
I'm really proud of a group of young adults who formed a community group called, We Are Guahan. These young individuals got together to read the entire Draft Environment Impact Study. After they did their research, they stood up at the public hearings and spoke out against the buildup using facts and busting myths held within the DEIS. That's a job well done.
Business as Usual on the Ranch.
Been busy this week, as usual. We had lots of rain here since Monday. The weather has been a roller coaster ride of rain and sun the whole week. Today was sunny with no rain. That was great. I don't mind the rain. I like working in the rain. The getting sick part is what I don't like.
The goat kids are doing great. All weigh over 30 lbs. Not bad, huh. And, that's all from forage, no grains. My kid buckling, Hercules, has soft stool though, no scours. I have to give that young buck some roughage tomorrow. I'm also kicking them, the kids, out of the nursery pen. They'll be out on pasture from now on starting tomorrow. They do go out in the morning with their dams. Then return in the evening. But not anymore...they'll stay out on pasture. Where it's healthier for them.
I'm still cleaning up the North Side of my ranch, until I'm told otherwise. I'd rather have it kept cleaned and maintained because it does provide a safety buffer to the clan on the compound. This afternoon, I spotted a hermit crab wearing a bottle. I wanted to catch it to take its picture. But I was carrying a tree limb at the time and stacking it on the compost pile. When I returned to the spot where I saw the hermit crab. It was gone. I hope to find it tomorrow.
My daughter, Larraine, had an asthmatic attack a couple of days ago. Rhoda took her to the hospital to get checked. Her blood oxygen count was 91. Rhoda tells me that's not good. The doctor put Larraine on bed rest and excused her from going to school for three days. But my young lady decided to go to school because she had to prepare for an exam on Monday. No, they do not observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the Philippines. She takes after her mom when it comes to academics. She takes after me when it's time to play. Anyway, Larraine is doing okay now.
Keep Smiling
The goat kids are doing great. All weigh over 30 lbs. Not bad, huh. And, that's all from forage, no grains. My kid buckling, Hercules, has soft stool though, no scours. I have to give that young buck some roughage tomorrow. I'm also kicking them, the kids, out of the nursery pen. They'll be out on pasture from now on starting tomorrow. They do go out in the morning with their dams. Then return in the evening. But not anymore...they'll stay out on pasture. Where it's healthier for them.
I'm still cleaning up the North Side of my ranch, until I'm told otherwise. I'd rather have it kept cleaned and maintained because it does provide a safety buffer to the clan on the compound. This afternoon, I spotted a hermit crab wearing a bottle. I wanted to catch it to take its picture. But I was carrying a tree limb at the time and stacking it on the compost pile. When I returned to the spot where I saw the hermit crab. It was gone. I hope to find it tomorrow.
My daughter, Larraine, had an asthmatic attack a couple of days ago. Rhoda took her to the hospital to get checked. Her blood oxygen count was 91. Rhoda tells me that's not good. The doctor put Larraine on bed rest and excused her from going to school for three days. But my young lady decided to go to school because she had to prepare for an exam on Monday. No, they do not observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the Philippines. She takes after her mom when it comes to academics. She takes after me when it's time to play. Anyway, Larraine is doing okay now.
Keep Smiling
Friday, January 15, 2010
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
For Larraine--My Little Girl...
Before Christmas last year, which was only a couple of weeks ago, I was chatting with my wife and daughter. Larraine was excited because she was going to her grandma's house for her Christmas Vacation and she would see her cousins. In and out of my chat with Rhoda, I was joking around with Larraine. We were laughing and having fun.
Larraine loves playing pranks on everyone in the house and even with me on chat. So Rhoda and I collaborated to pull a prank on Larraine. I told my wife to tell our daughter that she can't go to her grandma's because there were no funds. My thought was that Larraine would stand up and tell me, No, she's going. However, it turns out she started crying and asked her mommy that she wanted to talk to me via voice chat. I couldn't stand seeing my little girl cry. I told her that daddy was only joking with her. I apologized repeatedly. My little prank backfired on me. I felt really bad for doing that to her. Never do that again.
Tonight, I learned that Larraine was sick. Her Asthma started back up again. Her chest is congested and she's uncomfortable. Rhoda and I were having a discussion on it. Rhoda told me that she'll be taking Larraine to the hospital in the morning. I told her to wait and we'll try some other alternatives. When Larraine asked her mommy to confirm if they're going to the hospital. Her mommy told her no. She started crying and asked her mommy if she can afford to see her suffer. Rhoda told me she broke down and cried too. Then Larraine asked to talk to me. Seeing her on webcam crying and in pain, just broke my heart. I reassured my little girl that she is going to the hospital to see her doctor. Rhoda knows well, that I can't say, no, to my girl.
Larraine is not a bad girl. She is a great daughter with her little misadventures. She is obedient when it's me but challenges her mommy slightly. She's well mannered and courteous, very thoughtful and loving, a joker, mature for her age, enthusiastic and has lots of initiative. This young lady joined the girl scouts on her own without asking us, her parents. I was elated that she did, but Rhoda was concerned that she should have asked us first.
Rhoda told me once, that Larraine tries to emulate me. I just pray that I never disappoint my little girl.
[Verse 1:]
Gotta hold on easy as I let you go.
Gonna tell you how much I love you, though you think you already know.
I remember I thought you looked like an angel wrapped in pink so soft and warm.
You've had me wrapped around your finger since the day you were born.
[Chorus:]
You're beautiful baby from the outside in.
Chase your dreams but always know the road that'll lead you home again.
Go on, take on this whole world.
But to me you know you'll always be, my little girl.
[Verse 2:]
When you were in trouble that crooked little smile could melt my heart of stone.
Now look at you, I've turned around and you've almost grown.
Sometimes you're asleep I whisper "I Love You!" in the moonlight at your door.
As I walk away, I hear you say, "Daddy Love You More!".
[Chorus:]
You're beautiful baby from the outside in.
Chase your dreams but always know the road that'll lead you home again.
Go on, take on this whole world.
But to me you know you'll always be, my little girl.
[Verse 3:]
Someday, some boy will come and ask me for your hand.
But I won't say "yes" to him unless I know, he's the half
That makes you whole, he has a poet's soul, and the heart of a man's man.
I know he'll say that he's in love.
But between you and me. He won't be good enough!
[Chorus:]
You're beautiful baby from the outside in.
Chase your dreams but always know the road that'll lead you home again.
Go on, take on this whole world.
But to me you know you'll always be, my little girl.
Larraine loves playing pranks on everyone in the house and even with me on chat. So Rhoda and I collaborated to pull a prank on Larraine. I told my wife to tell our daughter that she can't go to her grandma's because there were no funds. My thought was that Larraine would stand up and tell me, No, she's going. However, it turns out she started crying and asked her mommy that she wanted to talk to me via voice chat. I couldn't stand seeing my little girl cry. I told her that daddy was only joking with her. I apologized repeatedly. My little prank backfired on me. I felt really bad for doing that to her. Never do that again.
Tonight, I learned that Larraine was sick. Her Asthma started back up again. Her chest is congested and she's uncomfortable. Rhoda and I were having a discussion on it. Rhoda told me that she'll be taking Larraine to the hospital in the morning. I told her to wait and we'll try some other alternatives. When Larraine asked her mommy to confirm if they're going to the hospital. Her mommy told her no. She started crying and asked her mommy if she can afford to see her suffer. Rhoda told me she broke down and cried too. Then Larraine asked to talk to me. Seeing her on webcam crying and in pain, just broke my heart. I reassured my little girl that she is going to the hospital to see her doctor. Rhoda knows well, that I can't say, no, to my girl.
Larraine is not a bad girl. She is a great daughter with her little misadventures. She is obedient when it's me but challenges her mommy slightly. She's well mannered and courteous, very thoughtful and loving, a joker, mature for her age, enthusiastic and has lots of initiative. This young lady joined the girl scouts on her own without asking us, her parents. I was elated that she did, but Rhoda was concerned that she should have asked us first.
Rhoda told me once, that Larraine tries to emulate me. I just pray that I never disappoint my little girl.
[Verse 1:]
Gotta hold on easy as I let you go.
Gonna tell you how much I love you, though you think you already know.
I remember I thought you looked like an angel wrapped in pink so soft and warm.
You've had me wrapped around your finger since the day you were born.
[Chorus:]
You're beautiful baby from the outside in.
Chase your dreams but always know the road that'll lead you home again.
Go on, take on this whole world.
But to me you know you'll always be, my little girl.
[Verse 2:]
When you were in trouble that crooked little smile could melt my heart of stone.
Now look at you, I've turned around and you've almost grown.
Sometimes you're asleep I whisper "I Love You!" in the moonlight at your door.
As I walk away, I hear you say, "Daddy Love You More!".
[Chorus:]
You're beautiful baby from the outside in.
Chase your dreams but always know the road that'll lead you home again.
Go on, take on this whole world.
But to me you know you'll always be, my little girl.
[Verse 3:]
Someday, some boy will come and ask me for your hand.
But I won't say "yes" to him unless I know, he's the half
That makes you whole, he has a poet's soul, and the heart of a man's man.
I know he'll say that he's in love.
But between you and me. He won't be good enough!
[Chorus:]
You're beautiful baby from the outside in.
Chase your dreams but always know the road that'll lead you home again.
Go on, take on this whole world.
But to me you know you'll always be, my little girl.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Guamanians Against the Military Buildup outside the Fence Line.
I attended the 3rd public hearing on the Draft Environmental Impact Study (DEIS) regarding the military buildup at the Yigo Gymnasium last night. The final meeting is tonight at Okkodo High School.
A lot of residents from Yigo were in attendance. I was the first speaker to give a comment but yielded to Auntie Gloria Nelson. So she may give her speech. Our concern is not the Military Buildup as a whole. But the military wanting more lands for their use. Yet they already own 1/3 of the island.
The U.S. Marines want to build a firing range right next to the Nelson Family Compound and take the only Race Track we have on island. But they have so much unused military land that they can use but choose not to.
There were many young adults, veterans, military retirees, landowners who stood up and spoke out against the land grab. Many have stated that they are not anti-America, anti-military, or anti-patriotic, They're just anti-buildup outside of the fence line. The military should buildup inside their fences and leave the locals alone.
There were over 66 people who signed up to make comments on the DEIS. Some speakers like myself gave up our times so others may present their comments before the people and the military/contract presenters in attendance.
On the other side of the coin, there are some locals who support the buildup. This group are looking towards the infusion of Billions of U.S. dollars into the island. Also, the jobs that will come with the buildup.
What those people don't know, until they actually read the DEIS, is that the numbers being given to the local media are not the true numbers presented in the DEIS. Many of us have heard 2000 U.S. Marines at the initial planning of the buildup. That number has changed to 8,000 U.S. Marines and 9,000 of their dependents.
What the majority of the people of Guam don't know, is that there will be over 80,000 military personnel, dependents, contractors, and H2 workers coming to this small island in the next couple of years.
The DEIS public hearings are nothing more than a dog and pony show for the military buildup on the island. It's all marketing to make them look really good. It took them 5 years to write the DEIS and we have 90 days to review and 4 days to make our comments with only a 3 minute time limit. Isn't that a slap in the face to the Guamanian People?
Each public hearing, the protesters have gotten bigger and louder. As a veteran, I felt bad for the U.S.. Marines in attendance, wearing their uniforms. I don't have any animosity towards them. I do hate the decisions that are being made thousands of miles away to grab these lands.
Many of the comments were justified, although most will never make it into the final EIS. Since the comments didn't deal specifically with the DEIS. However the venue was setup for the people to speak out. I admired those who spoke out passionately against the buildup. I was surprised to see so many young adults standing up to be heard. Only two senators from the legislature stood to speak out against the buildup; Senators Ben Pangelinan and B.J. Cruz. Speaker Judith Won-Pat was there to show support against the buildup. Actually, the spoke out against the buildup outside of military property. They should stay inside their bases.
While I was there mingling around with the crowd before the hearing began. I talked to some of the Chelu's hanging around behind the gym. Many expressed it's time for the Marianas Islands to reunite. To much time as passed that our islands are still separated politically. We are one people on one archipelago chain. I listened as they explained their views to me in regards to that dream. I, too, would like to see that happen within my lifetime, The Reunification of the Chamorro Islands.
At the moment, we have to fight one battle at a time, right now.
Keep Smiling
A lot of residents from Yigo were in attendance. I was the first speaker to give a comment but yielded to Auntie Gloria Nelson. So she may give her speech. Our concern is not the Military Buildup as a whole. But the military wanting more lands for their use. Yet they already own 1/3 of the island.
The U.S. Marines want to build a firing range right next to the Nelson Family Compound and take the only Race Track we have on island. But they have so much unused military land that they can use but choose not to.
There were many young adults, veterans, military retirees, landowners who stood up and spoke out against the land grab. Many have stated that they are not anti-America, anti-military, or anti-patriotic, They're just anti-buildup outside of the fence line. The military should buildup inside their fences and leave the locals alone.
There were over 66 people who signed up to make comments on the DEIS. Some speakers like myself gave up our times so others may present their comments before the people and the military/contract presenters in attendance.
On the other side of the coin, there are some locals who support the buildup. This group are looking towards the infusion of Billions of U.S. dollars into the island. Also, the jobs that will come with the buildup.
What those people don't know, until they actually read the DEIS, is that the numbers being given to the local media are not the true numbers presented in the DEIS. Many of us have heard 2000 U.S. Marines at the initial planning of the buildup. That number has changed to 8,000 U.S. Marines and 9,000 of their dependents.
What the majority of the people of Guam don't know, is that there will be over 80,000 military personnel, dependents, contractors, and H2 workers coming to this small island in the next couple of years.
The DEIS public hearings are nothing more than a dog and pony show for the military buildup on the island. It's all marketing to make them look really good. It took them 5 years to write the DEIS and we have 90 days to review and 4 days to make our comments with only a 3 minute time limit. Isn't that a slap in the face to the Guamanian People?
Each public hearing, the protesters have gotten bigger and louder. As a veteran, I felt bad for the U.S.. Marines in attendance, wearing their uniforms. I don't have any animosity towards them. I do hate the decisions that are being made thousands of miles away to grab these lands.
Many of the comments were justified, although most will never make it into the final EIS. Since the comments didn't deal specifically with the DEIS. However the venue was setup for the people to speak out. I admired those who spoke out passionately against the buildup. I was surprised to see so many young adults standing up to be heard. Only two senators from the legislature stood to speak out against the buildup; Senators Ben Pangelinan and B.J. Cruz. Speaker Judith Won-Pat was there to show support against the buildup. Actually, the spoke out against the buildup outside of military property. They should stay inside their bases.
While I was there mingling around with the crowd before the hearing began. I talked to some of the Chelu's hanging around behind the gym. Many expressed it's time for the Marianas Islands to reunite. To much time as passed that our islands are still separated politically. We are one people on one archipelago chain. I listened as they explained their views to me in regards to that dream. I, too, would like to see that happen within my lifetime, The Reunification of the Chamorro Islands.
At the moment, we have to fight one battle at a time, right now.
Keep Smiling
Monday, January 11, 2010
Mommy...Daddy said...!!!!
Yesterday, Rhoda was using our friend and Mali, Sharon's laptop. So she left me some offline messages on IM, while I was at evening service. When I got home, I saw the messages and replied to them accordingly. I said, my customary, "I Love You". and thought that was the end of it.
However, later on in the evening, I was greeted by Sharon, who came online, then by my wife. Rhoda told me that our daughter, had told her that, "Daddy said, "I love you" to her Nina Sharon. Larraine had read my reply to Rhoda on Sharon's laptop. I'm just laughing at the incident. Larraine thinks that because I was replying to her mommy and she read it on Sharon's laptop, assumes that I'm talking to Sharon. Rhoda talked to Larraine and calmed her fears. LOL...my little girl, thought I was messing around on her mommy. Larraine wanted to investigate Sharon's IM account to see if I said, Love you to her in the past. I don't know where my girl gets her advance maturity. She needs to stop watching TV and hanging around the adults.
I am sure that this is one of many to come misadventures with Larraine.
Keep Smiling
However, later on in the evening, I was greeted by Sharon, who came online, then by my wife. Rhoda told me that our daughter, had told her that, "Daddy said, "I love you" to her Nina Sharon. Larraine had read my reply to Rhoda on Sharon's laptop. I'm just laughing at the incident. Larraine thinks that because I was replying to her mommy and she read it on Sharon's laptop, assumes that I'm talking to Sharon. Rhoda talked to Larraine and calmed her fears. LOL...my little girl, thought I was messing around on her mommy. Larraine wanted to investigate Sharon's IM account to see if I said, Love you to her in the past. I don't know where my girl gets her advance maturity. She needs to stop watching TV and hanging around the adults.
I am sure that this is one of many to come misadventures with Larraine.
Keep Smiling
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Just killed a 4' long brown tree snake in the North Side of my ranch. Kudos to my dogs Stormie and Duchess. Stormie alerted us to it. Duchess went and bit it a couple of times distracting the snake until I got a good shot to the head. Gonna feed my ranch pups tonight. They're gonna eat really good. That's from all the cleaning, that I've been doing on the North Side. CORRECTION: The snake is over 6 feet long. My mom and I just measured it.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Cleaning the Ranch's North Area.
I continued to clear most of the North Area of the ranch. I've been cutting down trees that will not feed me. That is my standard. The trees have to bear some type of edible fruit. If not, It meets my chainsaw. Then it's leaves and bark become forage for my goat herd. Who have been doing a great job clearing back the brush and cleaning up the trees that I cut for them.
I was able to retrieve the tires from Krystal/Rey's house this past Sunday after morning service. Since then I've planted another tower, this time, Hawaiian Sweet Potato. I planted some Ginger today. I really appreciate their help, along with Joshua and Bro. Tito.
Hercules is a trip. That young kid buckling can yell! His dam would be 10 feet away browsing from him. He sees her but calls out like he can't. He wants his dam to come to him. I don't have that problem with kid doelings.
I'm able to get a nice Boer Buck on loan from another goat rancher here on island. I'm looking forward to that. I don't want to breed back the does to my herd sire, just yet. I want some new blood to upgrade my line. I'll get the loaner buck in March or April. Once I know that date, I'll start to freshen up my does to get them ready. We still have to work out the details prior to the loaner buck getting here to my ranch. Normally, the buck will stay here a month, or until all the does are bred. Which ever comes first.
The other day, while I was during errands, I stopped by Benson Hardware Store. I went looking around and saw this nice Poulan 20" Chainsaw. What a beauty! I would really like to add that to my inventory. One day, I'll get it.
During my siesta, I was checking out the news online. I watched a news video on horses being abandoned all over the nation due to economic hardships. So sad. I would like to adopt a stallion and couple of mares, if someone takes care of the shipping costs.
I was able to retrieve the tires from Krystal/Rey's house this past Sunday after morning service. Since then I've planted another tower, this time, Hawaiian Sweet Potato. I planted some Ginger today. I really appreciate their help, along with Joshua and Bro. Tito.
Hercules is a trip. That young kid buckling can yell! His dam would be 10 feet away browsing from him. He sees her but calls out like he can't. He wants his dam to come to him. I don't have that problem with kid doelings.
I'm able to get a nice Boer Buck on loan from another goat rancher here on island. I'm looking forward to that. I don't want to breed back the does to my herd sire, just yet. I want some new blood to upgrade my line. I'll get the loaner buck in March or April. Once I know that date, I'll start to freshen up my does to get them ready. We still have to work out the details prior to the loaner buck getting here to my ranch. Normally, the buck will stay here a month, or until all the does are bred. Which ever comes first.
The other day, while I was during errands, I stopped by Benson Hardware Store. I went looking around and saw this nice Poulan 20" Chainsaw. What a beauty! I would really like to add that to my inventory. One day, I'll get it.
During my siesta, I was checking out the news online. I watched a news video on horses being abandoned all over the nation due to economic hardships. So sad. I would like to adopt a stallion and couple of mares, if someone takes care of the shipping costs.
Whoa! Discovered a frog behind the back porch. It's sitting on a root ball that's floating on water in a stainless steel bucket. No, it's not a cane toad. I know what that looks like. This is an actual frog. It's about 3 to 3-1/2 inches long. Nice olive color with yellow lines running down the sides of it's back. Gonna leave it alone. That was a really nice find. Check y'all laters...
Sunday, January 3, 2010
2009--A Challenging Year, But I Thank God for the Blessings.
For the last couple of days, I was trying to figure out how to do my "2009, Year in Review". When I re-read most of my blogs from 2009. I realized that majority of them was about challenges that I was going through that month. I did not realize that I had a lot of challenges! There were some positive situations.
I am going to take those challenges from last year as a learning experience. I do know that some of those issues and situations could have been avoided. I don't want to use my PTSD as an excuse. I know I can move beyond that. But, it is a factor. I am putting the skills, that were taught to me by the VA Center on how to deal with my stress, anger, and communications issues, to use. It's just not easy sometimes.
Some of the things I have learned from last year. I know who are my family, friends, and relatives. The saying, "You know who your friends are, when you're in trouble, and when you turn around, those still standing there are your friends", rings true for me. I now know the difference between family and relatives. You would think that they are one and the same. No, it is not. There is a huge difference. I also did a lot of reflection on Asian family values and Western family values.
I have learning not to take myself to seriously at times. That my venting is just that, venting. Don't pent up the negatives, let it vent out. But vent out in a proper venue at my counseling sessions or during my workout, turn that negative into a positive.
On the Positive Side,
My Neni girl, Larraine, graduated from Kindergarten in March. She looks absolutely stunning in her white gown, that her grandma made for her.
That same month, the family in Cagayan De Oro celebrated Rhoda's birthday by going out to dinner.
I'm a member of the Reaching Out TV Ministry at Abundant Life Church In April. It is the newest ministry in our church. I'm one of many cameramen and woman. I thought when I first joined that it would be easy. No, it was not. It's a lot harder than it looks. But, it is fun. I do know I've improved a lot since we started, not just from feedback from the team leaders and pastor. But also from the recorded video's we bring home to self-critique. The whole team has improved A LOT, not just me.
I am thankful for Dindin, Rhoda's cousin, and Sharon, Rhoda's best friend, for coming into our lives last May and June. Their friendship, help, and loyalty to Rhoda, has actually made things bearable for her to deal with. I am really glad that they're now part of our family. Both of them are Larraine's Nina's (godmothers).
We celebrated Larraine's Dedication in July. Just thinking of what Rhoda and the family had to go through that day because Larraine and her cousin decided to do their own thing.
One thing that I did was join CrossFit in July. One of my youth leaders, Maressa, introduced me to CrossFit, after I saw her stats on facebook. I tried it out. The program kicked my butt, but I love it. Weird, huh?! I have since lost 30 pounds doing the WOD's (Work Out of the Day) at the CrossFit HQ site.
Matua Ranch is blessed with the arrival of a litter of puppies from our ranch dog, Duchess. Scout and Ranger are doing great.
Larraine decided to join the Girl Scouts on her own in October. She didn't even bother asking her mommy or me. She just went and signed up, and told us after the fact. Her reason; she wants to be a police woman when she grows up. So she decided that she will start her training now, as part of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines. She is currently a Star Scout.
Rhoda placed 2nd in her nursing class last semester mid October. That's great! We were not even concerned about her class placement, just on finishing. We're praying that she maintains that position or moves up to 1st.in her class. Whatever God will give us, we'll be happy. But it would be really cool though if she did get 1st.
I decided in November to be a full time Rancher. I didn't make that decision lightly. I consulted with close family and friends, my VA social worker, and Doctors. Since I made the decision and commitment, things have started to move smoothly and blessings are sprouting.
Matua Ranch goat herd increased by 4 goat kids in November. Along with 3 kid doelings, the last kid was a kid buckling. The ranch also acquired to 2 rabbits. With the new additions to the ranch, I hope to use them in our breeding program.
I spent Thanksgiving with the Benavente Family in Barriagada. I was invited by Pastor Joe and Lou to have lunch with them. Food was great!
Abundant Life Church's Annual Christmas Party was a great hit. My dinner and raffle ticked was sponsored by Bro. John and Sis. Bobbie. The food was great, ate a lot. I won a Christmas gift - ceiling fan. I'll install that into Larraine's room.
Larraine having fun during her Class Room's Christmas Party. Her mommy says, they had lots of fun.
Rhoda and Larraine celebrated Christmas and New Year's Eve in Butuan City with the family there.
I am so thankful for all those who have helped me and my family out last year. I really do appreciate it. One day, I will reciprocate. Hopefully, it's this year.
Keep Smiling and have a Blessed New Year!
I am going to take those challenges from last year as a learning experience. I do know that some of those issues and situations could have been avoided. I don't want to use my PTSD as an excuse. I know I can move beyond that. But, it is a factor. I am putting the skills, that were taught to me by the VA Center on how to deal with my stress, anger, and communications issues, to use. It's just not easy sometimes.
Some of the things I have learned from last year. I know who are my family, friends, and relatives. The saying, "You know who your friends are, when you're in trouble, and when you turn around, those still standing there are your friends", rings true for me. I now know the difference between family and relatives. You would think that they are one and the same. No, it is not. There is a huge difference. I also did a lot of reflection on Asian family values and Western family values.
I have learning not to take myself to seriously at times. That my venting is just that, venting. Don't pent up the negatives, let it vent out. But vent out in a proper venue at my counseling sessions or during my workout, turn that negative into a positive.
On the Positive Side,
My Neni girl, Larraine, graduated from Kindergarten in March. She looks absolutely stunning in her white gown, that her grandma made for her.
That same month, the family in Cagayan De Oro celebrated Rhoda's birthday by going out to dinner. I'm a member of the Reaching Out TV Ministry at Abundant Life Church In April. It is the newest ministry in our church. I'm one of many cameramen and woman. I thought when I first joined that it would be easy. No, it was not. It's a lot harder than it looks. But, it is fun. I do know I've improved a lot since we started, not just from feedback from the team leaders and pastor. But also from the recorded video's we bring home to self-critique. The whole team has improved A LOT, not just me.
I am thankful for Dindin, Rhoda's cousin, and Sharon, Rhoda's best friend, for coming into our lives last May and June. Their friendship, help, and loyalty to Rhoda, has actually made things bearable for her to deal with. I am really glad that they're now part of our family. Both of them are Larraine's Nina's (godmothers).
We celebrated Larraine's Dedication in July. Just thinking of what Rhoda and the family had to go through that day because Larraine and her cousin decided to do their own thing. One thing that I did was join CrossFit in July. One of my youth leaders, Maressa, introduced me to CrossFit, after I saw her stats on facebook. I tried it out. The program kicked my butt, but I love it. Weird, huh?! I have since lost 30 pounds doing the WOD's (Work Out of the Day) at the CrossFit HQ site. Matua Ranch is blessed with the arrival of a litter of puppies from our ranch dog, Duchess. Scout and Ranger are doing great.
Larraine decided to join the Girl Scouts on her own in October. She didn't even bother asking her mommy or me. She just went and signed up, and told us after the fact. Her reason; she wants to be a police woman when she grows up. So she decided that she will start her training now, as part of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines. She is currently a Star Scout. Rhoda placed 2nd in her nursing class last semester mid October. That's great! We were not even concerned about her class placement, just on finishing. We're praying that she maintains that position or moves up to 1st.in her class. Whatever God will give us, we'll be happy. But it would be really cool though if she did get 1st. I decided in November to be a full time Rancher. I didn't make that decision lightly. I consulted with close family and friends, my VA social worker, and Doctors. Since I made the decision and commitment, things have started to move smoothly and blessings are sprouting.
Matua Ranch goat herd increased by 4 goat kids in November. Along with 3 kid doelings, the last kid was a kid buckling. The ranch also acquired to 2 rabbits. With the new additions to the ranch, I hope to use them in our breeding program.
I spent Thanksgiving with the Benavente Family in Barriagada. I was invited by Pastor Joe and Lou to have lunch with them. Food was great!
Abundant Life Church's Annual Christmas Party was a great hit. My dinner and raffle ticked was sponsored by Bro. John and Sis. Bobbie. The food was great, ate a lot. I won a Christmas gift - ceiling fan. I'll install that into Larraine's room.
Larraine having fun during her Class Room's Christmas Party. Her mommy says, they had lots of fun. Rhoda and Larraine celebrated Christmas and New Year's Eve in Butuan City with the family there.
I am so thankful for all those who have helped me and my family out last year. I really do appreciate it. One day, I will reciprocate. Hopefully, it's this year.
Keep Smiling and have a Blessed New Year!
Friday, January 1, 2010
New Year's Day on the Ranch.
New Year's Day, today, has been very productive for the first day of the year for Matua Ranch. That's a great sign. I got up early this morning. I couldn't help it. The neighbors were still blowing up their cannons or shooting their guns off. I did get some sleep.
This morning while checking emails, news, and weather reports. I was contemplating on using my chainsaw to cut firewood. My neighborly way of tactfully telling my knucklehead neighbors that they were to loud during the early morning. I decided not to.
I called Rhoda up instead and wished my beautiful wife a happy new year. After a brief chat, Rhoda then called Larraine. My girl got on the phone and yelled, "Happy New Year Daddy! I miss you and love you!" If I had known she was going to yell like that, I would have put the cell phone away from my ear. I love her enthusiasm. LOL...Did I tell you guys? My girl wants me to buy her a gun (toy gun) and a remote control car. What happened to my princess? More like Princess Tomboy...Rhoda just laughs...she's emulating you.
I was in the ranch watching over the goat herd while I was talking to Rhoda. She was able to hear the new goat kids while we were talking, first was Lily, then Hercules, Alinnah, Larraine's goat was to busy eating to sound off. Just then Scout started barking...he was stuck on some tall grass. So my wife heard 3 of many animals on the ranch. We were able to talk until I ran out of load(minutes for y'all westerners). We'll chat again when Rhoda and Larraine are back home in Cagayan De Oro City.
After our call, I started cleaning around the branches and trunks that I cut yesterday, and the day before. I placed them in a compost pile about 30 feet long. I might just make that a hedgerow. I still have more tangantangan trees to cut down. It's going to be my vegetable garden.
The other day I was offered a heifer for $800. That is a really great deal for a cow. Unfortunately, I don't have that kind of cash laying around. Even if I have the place to allow the cow to forage. It just doesn't fit in with my plans at the moment. I had to refuse the offer.
There are some areas that I want to get into this year as far as the ranch is concerned. I really want to get into Apiculture. That's Beekeeping. My main purpose is for pollination since I'm starting up on my garden crops. Instead of chancing for the bees to find my garden. I'll have the bees here already. I do plan on harvesting honey, which I enjoy so much. My mom is finally getting the hang of using honey instead of sugar. I will also be making Mead. Mead is Honey Wine. I had the opportunity to try Mead in North Carolina. It was really good. Have you ever watch 13th Warrior? Where Antonio Banderas character, Ahmad ibn Fadlan, refuses to drink alcohol due to his Muslim faith. Finally, just before the final battle a viking warrior tells him, it's honey. So Ahmad drinks his first taste of Mead.
My mom tells me that my dad used to make coconut oil. I remember because I hated doing it, especially the cooking method. I knew he sold it at the flea market or to his regulars. I was just not interested at the time. Until, I saw a video on Virgin Coconut Oil Processing later this past year. That is a better method. All I have to do is grind the coconut meat, then press it, collect the milk, then let it sit. The oil will naturally separate from the water. Then all I have to do is just skim the oil out. I know it's a lot of hard work. That's one reason why I will use technology and machinery to do most of the work.
I'm also working on my "Year in Review Blog". I hope to have it done tomorrow. I didn't realize that I did so much...so I'm just using the highlights.
It was a great day today...hard work, good food, great wife and daughter, and lots of cool friends. Happy New Year!!!
Keep Smiling
This morning while checking emails, news, and weather reports. I was contemplating on using my chainsaw to cut firewood. My neighborly way of tactfully telling my knucklehead neighbors that they were to loud during the early morning. I decided not to.
I called Rhoda up instead and wished my beautiful wife a happy new year. After a brief chat, Rhoda then called Larraine. My girl got on the phone and yelled, "Happy New Year Daddy! I miss you and love you!" If I had known she was going to yell like that, I would have put the cell phone away from my ear. I love her enthusiasm. LOL...Did I tell you guys? My girl wants me to buy her a gun (toy gun) and a remote control car. What happened to my princess? More like Princess Tomboy...Rhoda just laughs...she's emulating you.
I was in the ranch watching over the goat herd while I was talking to Rhoda. She was able to hear the new goat kids while we were talking, first was Lily, then Hercules, Alinnah, Larraine's goat was to busy eating to sound off. Just then Scout started barking...he was stuck on some tall grass. So my wife heard 3 of many animals on the ranch. We were able to talk until I ran out of load(minutes for y'all westerners). We'll chat again when Rhoda and Larraine are back home in Cagayan De Oro City.
After our call, I started cleaning around the branches and trunks that I cut yesterday, and the day before. I placed them in a compost pile about 30 feet long. I might just make that a hedgerow. I still have more tangantangan trees to cut down. It's going to be my vegetable garden.
The other day I was offered a heifer for $800. That is a really great deal for a cow. Unfortunately, I don't have that kind of cash laying around. Even if I have the place to allow the cow to forage. It just doesn't fit in with my plans at the moment. I had to refuse the offer.
There are some areas that I want to get into this year as far as the ranch is concerned. I really want to get into Apiculture. That's Beekeeping. My main purpose is for pollination since I'm starting up on my garden crops. Instead of chancing for the bees to find my garden. I'll have the bees here already. I do plan on harvesting honey, which I enjoy so much. My mom is finally getting the hang of using honey instead of sugar. I will also be making Mead. Mead is Honey Wine. I had the opportunity to try Mead in North Carolina. It was really good. Have you ever watch 13th Warrior? Where Antonio Banderas character, Ahmad ibn Fadlan, refuses to drink alcohol due to his Muslim faith. Finally, just before the final battle a viking warrior tells him, it's honey. So Ahmad drinks his first taste of Mead.
My mom tells me that my dad used to make coconut oil. I remember because I hated doing it, especially the cooking method. I knew he sold it at the flea market or to his regulars. I was just not interested at the time. Until, I saw a video on Virgin Coconut Oil Processing later this past year. That is a better method. All I have to do is grind the coconut meat, then press it, collect the milk, then let it sit. The oil will naturally separate from the water. Then all I have to do is just skim the oil out. I know it's a lot of hard work. That's one reason why I will use technology and machinery to do most of the work.
I'm also working on my "Year in Review Blog". I hope to have it done tomorrow. I didn't realize that I did so much...so I'm just using the highlights.
It was a great day today...hard work, good food, great wife and daughter, and lots of cool friends. Happy New Year!!!
Keep Smiling
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