Pre-holiday Reflections 2004

Wow, the year is almost over.  Many events and changes transpired. An end of a work career era.  New beginnings. Accomplishments were achieved and a lot more activities to be done before the year end.

It has been great. We have been blessed with the arrival of Sophie July 1st.  While waiting for a plane at Mishiwaka Regional Airport in South Bend, Indiana, I ran into Muhammad Ali.  Yup, the King, Cassius Clay himself up close and in person! I got extended at the B ranch for 2 months.  My new departure date is December 3. It will be bittersweet.  But I look forward to the future with positive enthusiasm and excitement.  I would prefer a few days visiting Malapacao again just to decompress.  The place takes me back to pure nature and serenity.  But, that will have to wait for another time.

Some completed projects: I've now spun off Saigon City Restaurant's own website www.saigoncityberkeley.com.  I continue as the webchef and photographer.  This release coincided with the Nov. 12, 2004 Food Section review by the San Francisco Chronicle and a write-up on SFGATE.COM.  This was a triple exposure coup. That Friday night, the restaurant was so busy, I could not even get the regular table.  My pareng Patrick and staff are now busier than ever.  I wish Patrick and the restaurant continued success.  Now, I have to use my brownie points to get a table.  Maybe, it is time to get a bigger space.

I also officially published the Winston Granizo's portfolio website www.winstongranizo.com. A master painter (uses oils to do portraits and scenes), he studied under John Sanden over 20 years ago and had continued painting through the years.  After seeing a sample of his work, I became a fan and I got interested in improving my painting. I offered to do his website if he would teach me portrait painting techniques. Sweet!

I am thrilled with getting involved with funding R3F's now released EP-CD.  The back stage pass privileges are great.  The CD is available at Interpunk's web site or during their shows. www.roundthreefight.com website provides show schedules and "merch" sites. 

Here's a quick scoop on the family front:

Now 5 months old, Sophie is getting bigger, heavier, and much more active than ever. She's learning how to roll on her own. Sits up by herself and communicates with us (in baby talk). She is scheduled for Baptism this coming December 11 at St. Patrick's Church in San Francisco (SOMA).

Zachary is growing quite well...thanks to his caring and nurturing mom and grandparents. While I was in South Bend for a Halloween weekend, I witnessed him score two soccer goals at the Soccer Zone, his first piano recital at a local Barnes and Noble. We went trick or treating Halloween night. He was Yugioh this year.

Russell continues his 1st year studies at Las Positas College in Livermore but still spends his past time with video games and weekend visits to Pacifica. 

Michael, 21... well... he's getting too busy with many Round 3 Fight gigs.

Of course, having Catherine completes the picture. She's been supportive and patient with me and I count my blessings.

I wish you all a Happy New Year!