I wish I had something more like a retrospective to write about today. You know, one of those things where I could cover the happenings of the last year with some quotes, a few pictures, and some nice words to roll the last 360-some-odd days into a nice compact essay. Unfortunately, my memory isn't that good, and I don't have pictures to cover all that has happened in the last 12 months.
So what can I say about all things Hernandez in 2007?
I can say that we've had a roller coaster ride, and sometimes things have just been mundane and vanilla.
There have been things that have made some of us question our own mortality and the value we place on life-- and on living. We have had additions to the family, and one great subtraction. External forces have brought many of us closer, and changed minds on what we do for family and the significance of family in our lives. And, for some of us, we have exposed our vulnerable selves to everyone, daring anyone to take a shot at our true inner selves.
Without a doubt, 2007 has been a year of significance for our family, as a whole. Every year in a family as large as ours is guaranteed to give rise to conflict and resolution, to new beginnings and an end to old things. Significance isn't measured objectively. Nor should it be. What is highly important to one may not be important to another, but this in no way diminishes the impact of a person or an event on any individual. What I see in passing may be your crowning achievement, and the least anyone could do is to acknowledge how much that moment means to you.
Which is another reason why I have difficulty limiting this post to a few things that resonated with everyone. In truth, there are over 100 of us from Gramma Connie on down the line. To say that some events meant more to the family than others is unfair to everyone. In fact, each of you did something this past year that was great, said something powerful, lived a day more memorable than any other. That such things may have occurred purely within the confines of your own existence is irrelevant. What is important to each of us must be acknowledged by the rest of us-- if it matters to you, than it matters to me, if for no other reason than we are family.
So I hope you'll forgive me for not listing funny moments, important events, best pictures and notable days of 2007. Rather than highlight some of what was important to some of us, I'd rather tip my hat to each one of us, to say that every one mattered most. Everyone is somebody, everyone is significant, every day of this year was a day to remember.
So give yourselves, and each other, a round of applause for helping make 2007 a year to remember.
Now, if you please, I'm sure we could all agree to the meaning behind the video below. A reminder to all of us to make sure we cherish every day, every moment, and remind those around us how much they mean to us.
Ladies and gentlemen, if you'll permit me, here is the song of our year...
Friday, December 28, 2007
Christmas Day
I wish I had more to write about. Truth is, I was only at Gramma's house for all of 40 minutes on Tuesday.
From what I could see, all is well. And you can't complain about that!
It was actually fairly low-key. Papas even commented on how the family's parties seem to be more mellow, and Ronny agreed, saying we're older and more calm than we used to be.
So be it. There ain't nothing wrong with mellow!
So here's to calm and quiet, older and wiser, refusing to sweat the small stuff.
Happy Holidays, y'all!
From what I could see, all is well. And you can't complain about that!
It was actually fairly low-key. Papas even commented on how the family's parties seem to be more mellow, and Ronny agreed, saying we're older and more calm than we used to be.
So be it. There ain't nothing wrong with mellow!
So here's to calm and quiet, older and wiser, refusing to sweat the small stuff.
Happy Holidays, y'all!
Friday, December 21, 2007
New Posts
Apologies to everyone.
On Monday I tweaked my neck at the gym. On Wednesday, after seeing noted local chiropractor Kevin Fisher, the deep tissue work and resulting release of toxins through me into flu-like symptoms over the last two days.
Thus I haven't had time to check for news or think of new posts to put up for the fam.
Hopefully this won't last, and I hope to see y'all on Tuesday.
Merry Christmas!
On Monday I tweaked my neck at the gym. On Wednesday, after seeing noted local chiropractor Kevin Fisher, the deep tissue work and resulting release of toxins through me into flu-like symptoms over the last two days.
Thus I haven't had time to check for news or think of new posts to put up for the fam.
Hopefully this won't last, and I hope to see y'all on Tuesday.
Merry Christmas!
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Revisited: Guest Commentaries
Back in August I made an appeal to any family members who have wanted to write about things can do so.
Four months later, and it hasn't happened but a couple times.
Seriously, it's not easy to try to come up with new material. Any time y'all want to write something, just let me know. Any time y'all want me to write about something, just let me know. Any time.... any time!
Here's what I wrote back in August:
Last week we started a regular item on The Herd. Every Tuesday we'll be highlighting someone in the family who has a business, is self-employed, someone engaging in a new business or financial endeavor. Well, I'd also like to open things up for another regular thing.
If anyone has something to say, something to write about, something they want to communicate to the family-- go right ahead. Let me know, and I will post whatever you want. The guest commentaries will be open to anyone, and on just about any topic.
I know some of us can type something up and send it in an email. Others, however, don't have the skills or the equipment. That's fine-- get a hold of me and I can type what you say, or you can have someone else do it.
I hope to have some regular input from others in the family. I know some of us have things on our minds, and some of us like to talk...
::cough:: Uncle Vic ::cough::
...so I know we can put some Guest Commentaries up soon and often.
Shout shout let it all out...
Happy writing, y'all.
Four months later, and it hasn't happened but a couple times.
Seriously, it's not easy to try to come up with new material. Any time y'all want to write something, just let me know. Any time y'all want me to write about something, just let me know. Any time.... any time!
Here's what I wrote back in August:
Last week we started a regular item on The Herd. Every Tuesday we'll be highlighting someone in the family who has a business, is self-employed, someone engaging in a new business or financial endeavor. Well, I'd also like to open things up for another regular thing.
If anyone has something to say, something to write about, something they want to communicate to the family-- go right ahead. Let me know, and I will post whatever you want. The guest commentaries will be open to anyone, and on just about any topic.
I know some of us can type something up and send it in an email. Others, however, don't have the skills or the equipment. That's fine-- get a hold of me and I can type what you say, or you can have someone else do it.
I hope to have some regular input from others in the family. I know some of us have things on our minds, and some of us like to talk...
::cough:: Uncle Vic ::cough::
...so I know we can put some Guest Commentaries up soon and often.
Shout shout let it all out...
Happy writing, y'all.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Coming Due
Laura and Papas' baby is almost here!
Hard to believe, but it's already been more than 3-and-a-half months since the news made it out to everyone, and on the Herd.
Laura is due on January 7-- all of 24 days away.
I'll post some pictures if I get any so we'll all be able to see the latest addition to our fam.
Hard to believe, but it's already been more than 3-and-a-half months since the news made it out to everyone, and on the Herd.
Laura is due on January 7-- all of 24 days away.
I'll post some pictures if I get any so we'll all be able to see the latest addition to our fam.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Third Saturday: December Edition
I hope the Holiday Season is treating y'all well.
Breakfast at the Mesa Cafe wasn't as crowded this month. Not to say that it's a bad thing. Sometimes a little quiet can be a good thing.
Bosco showed up with children Alyssa, Joseph and Gabriel in tow. Papas was there, as well. Wolf and Joaquin showed up later for a cup of coffee.
As I wrote when I first started the Herd, there is no requirement to show up. Someone will be there. The group is different every time. We're just trying to build a tradition, start something to build our ties to each other. We started going on Sundays, but we switched to Saturdays to accommodate more people.
While it would be nice if some people showed up every now and again... *cough* Garcias, Aspurias, Jaimes', Hernandez' *cough* ...there is no expectations for anyone to go. And it would be nice if some people came when they were in town (nods to the Montross in the corner), no one's gonna say anything to folks who go less than others.
So far, Ronny, Matt, Papas, Bosco, Robert and I are the regulars. And every time, no matter who or how many, it's always good times.
For anyone who didn't get a copy of the letter I sent out last May, here's the reason we do this monthly breakfast in the first place. And no, it's not just for the guys, the younger ones, or the single ones...
May 1, 2007
To All of My Cousins-
Each of us has a lot going on, especially as most of us grow older, form our own families, begin careers, and become tied to other responsibilities. Sometimes these things can make us forget about family, and we can become distracted from the things that are most important.
Whether it is helping each other get a job, start a business, help someone move, help someone out of a bad situation, or just to enjoy some laughs for an hour or so—just being able to get together to talk is important for all of us.
On the Sunday after Uncle Bob passed away, we got together for breakfast at Mesa Café. It’s not something we had done much before, though we probably should have. We did it for our cousin Robert, and we did it to show our ties to each other.
And so, a new tradition began.
There is an open invitation to all of you, and any I forgot, to join us on the third Sunday of every month, at 10am, at the Mesa Café.
This is mostly for those old enough to sit still, but it would also be nice for us to set an example and be role models for the younger cousins. If you want to bring the younger brothers, sisters, nieces or nephews, feel free to do so (just try to keep an eye on them).
Let’s make sure to keep the cousins together. If nothing else, family is all we’ve got.
If you can let me know at least a day ahead of time if you will be going, it’ll make it easier to get a table and make arrangements. My cell phone number is 805-637-6836.
-David
Breakfast at the Mesa Cafe wasn't as crowded this month. Not to say that it's a bad thing. Sometimes a little quiet can be a good thing.
Bosco showed up with children Alyssa, Joseph and Gabriel in tow. Papas was there, as well. Wolf and Joaquin showed up later for a cup of coffee.
As I wrote when I first started the Herd, there is no requirement to show up. Someone will be there. The group is different every time. We're just trying to build a tradition, start something to build our ties to each other. We started going on Sundays, but we switched to Saturdays to accommodate more people.
While it would be nice if some people showed up every now and again... *cough* Garcias, Aspurias, Jaimes', Hernandez' *cough* ...there is no expectations for anyone to go. And it would be nice if some people came when they were in town (nods to the Montross in the corner), no one's gonna say anything to folks who go less than others.
So far, Ronny, Matt, Papas, Bosco, Robert and I are the regulars. And every time, no matter who or how many, it's always good times.
For anyone who didn't get a copy of the letter I sent out last May, here's the reason we do this monthly breakfast in the first place. And no, it's not just for the guys, the younger ones, or the single ones...
May 1, 2007
To All of My Cousins-
Each of us has a lot going on, especially as most of us grow older, form our own families, begin careers, and become tied to other responsibilities. Sometimes these things can make us forget about family, and we can become distracted from the things that are most important.
Whether it is helping each other get a job, start a business, help someone move, help someone out of a bad situation, or just to enjoy some laughs for an hour or so—just being able to get together to talk is important for all of us.
On the Sunday after Uncle Bob passed away, we got together for breakfast at Mesa Café. It’s not something we had done much before, though we probably should have. We did it for our cousin Robert, and we did it to show our ties to each other.
And so, a new tradition began.
There is an open invitation to all of you, and any I forgot, to join us on the third Sunday of every month, at 10am, at the Mesa Café.
This is mostly for those old enough to sit still, but it would also be nice for us to set an example and be role models for the younger cousins. If you want to bring the younger brothers, sisters, nieces or nephews, feel free to do so (just try to keep an eye on them).
Let’s make sure to keep the cousins together. If nothing else, family is all we’ve got.
If you can let me know at least a day ahead of time if you will be going, it’ll make it easier to get a table and make arrangements. My cell phone number is 805-637-6836.
-David
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Quote For Your Weekend
Here's another weekend quote for y'all to consider:
"Happiness is to take up the struggle in the midst of the raging storm,
and not to pluck the lute in the moonlight or recite poetry among the
blossoms."
-Ding Ling, Chinese Author
"Happiness is to take up the struggle in the midst of the raging storm,
and not to pluck the lute in the moonlight or recite poetry among the
blossoms."
-Ding Ling, Chinese Author
Friday, December 14, 2007
The Girls Plan A Getaway
It’s early in the planning stages, but the Aunties and Cousins are planning an All-Female getaway in July 2008.
It goes without saying that trips like these are a good and necessary thing. They build and strengthen ties, allow people to catch up on how life is for everyone else, and the trip can be relaxation away from the usual hubbub of every day life.
Of course, that’s not the primary reason for the trip next summer.
It comes at a time just before Leah’s wedding. And a better time could scarcely be found for the getaway. This gives the Women of our family a chance to get together and share advice, experience, and wisdom learned from one generation to another. The exchange of knowledge will surely be great. It is a special thing for the Aunties and Cousins to do with and for Leah as she becomes a bride and builds the foundations of her own family.
Thus far, either stays at the Chumash Resort near Santa Barbara’s numerous wineries, or somewhere close to the heart of California’s Wine Country in Napa Valley have been tossed around for consideration. Nothing is definite yet.
There is still time. But don’t wait too long or places will be booked by the summer tourists.
In any case, to everyone going: enjoy!
It goes without saying that trips like these are a good and necessary thing. They build and strengthen ties, allow people to catch up on how life is for everyone else, and the trip can be relaxation away from the usual hubbub of every day life.
Of course, that’s not the primary reason for the trip next summer.
It comes at a time just before Leah’s wedding. And a better time could scarcely be found for the getaway. This gives the Women of our family a chance to get together and share advice, experience, and wisdom learned from one generation to another. The exchange of knowledge will surely be great. It is a special thing for the Aunties and Cousins to do with and for Leah as she becomes a bride and builds the foundations of her own family.
Thus far, either stays at the Chumash Resort near Santa Barbara’s numerous wineries, or somewhere close to the heart of California’s Wine Country in Napa Valley have been tossed around for consideration. Nothing is definite yet.
There is still time. But don’t wait too long or places will be booked by the summer tourists.
In any case, to everyone going: enjoy!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Christmas Day
Word has it that we’ll be meeting at the Fugee Caaa…. I mean, Gramma’s House on Christmas Day. The menu will be decidedly Mexican in type, and I’m sure plenty of related sweetness will be on hand before, during, and after.
That's gonna be good times!
If I might offer an editorial comment to this post: tell your wonderful children, siblings, etc to leave his or her new toys at home. As it is, we spend money on them throughout the year, and then we use Christmas as an excuse to buy them more junk.
While I personally think we ought to be putting money elsewhere (into savings bonds, education accounts, etc) for the younglings, this isn’t the point of this comment. Rather, it’s that not all kids are able to get the same toys, or as many toys as the next one. Don’t remind any kid, whether they are 3 or 13, that they might not have as many possessions as the next one.
You see, adults can appreciate what someone else owns, and the work (or even luck) that likely went into it. But kids don’t yet know tact, they don’t know kindness—and they often flaunt what they have.
It was only in the last couple years that I realized this. Two cousins were playing with each other on Christmas Day and one said, “I have to go to _____ to get more presents.” And they said this while the second cousin watched the first play with new toys—the second having not gotten as many presents, nor ones that were as cool.
I’m not going to blame the kid for saying it, however. Children aren’t mature enough to understand all that they say or do.
So, yeah—leave the toys at home. And, in doing so, you might teach your kid that Christmas is about more than presents. Such as, for instance, being together with family.
See y’all then, hopefully sooner!
That's gonna be good times!
If I might offer an editorial comment to this post: tell your wonderful children, siblings, etc to leave his or her new toys at home. As it is, we spend money on them throughout the year, and then we use Christmas as an excuse to buy them more junk.
While I personally think we ought to be putting money elsewhere (into savings bonds, education accounts, etc) for the younglings, this isn’t the point of this comment. Rather, it’s that not all kids are able to get the same toys, or as many toys as the next one. Don’t remind any kid, whether they are 3 or 13, that they might not have as many possessions as the next one.
You see, adults can appreciate what someone else owns, and the work (or even luck) that likely went into it. But kids don’t yet know tact, they don’t know kindness—and they often flaunt what they have.
It was only in the last couple years that I realized this. Two cousins were playing with each other on Christmas Day and one said, “I have to go to _____ to get more presents.” And they said this while the second cousin watched the first play with new toys—the second having not gotten as many presents, nor ones that were as cool.
I’m not going to blame the kid for saying it, however. Children aren’t mature enough to understand all that they say or do.
So, yeah—leave the toys at home. And, in doing so, you might teach your kid that Christmas is about more than presents. Such as, for instance, being together with family.
See y’all then, hopefully sooner!
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Photos
So y’all know how to look at the pictures and photo albums, right?
Just look in the column on the right and click on the ‘Photo Albums’ link to get to all of the albums. Once there, you can click on any album to see what’s inside. Inside an album, you can click on any picture to see a closer view.
You can click on the ‘Back’ button on your browser (should be in the top left of the window you’re in, and it’ll look like an arrow pointing backwards) or you can click on ‘Back to Album’ just above and to the left of the enlarged photo you are viewing.
Did you also know you can download the pictures to your computer, or even order prints directly from the photo album?
When you are looking at the close-up view of any picture, take a look to the right of that photo. You will see one link for ‘Download This Photo’ and another for ‘Order Prints’.
When you download a picture it will be saved onto the computer you are on. When it is saved to that computer, you can look at it any time without having to come back to the Family Photos page online. If you have a printer, you can also print the pictures from your computer and keep or frame them.
If you want to order printed photos of any picture, click the ‘Order Prints’ link. This will add a picture to an order you can process when you are finished browsing for purchases. If you click ‘View Order’ (upper right of the page) it will take you to a page that asks what company you want to order from, and then you will be asked about the number of prints, sizes and possibly finishes. You can order prints of any picture up in the online photo album. These prints are about $1 each—not the most affordable, but it’s an easy way to get them.
Of course, some of you I’m sure don’t want to bother with all that. You know who you are… ;)
If there are photos you want and you’d like prints of them, let me know and I can order them for you. When I receive the pictures, I’ll take them to you and you can reimburse me. Just let me know and I’ll take care of it. Or you can bug one of your other siblings, cousins, etc.
This has been another ‘How To…’ for visitors to The Herd.
Cheers!
Just look in the column on the right and click on the ‘Photo Albums’ link to get to all of the albums. Once there, you can click on any album to see what’s inside. Inside an album, you can click on any picture to see a closer view.
You can click on the ‘Back’ button on your browser (should be in the top left of the window you’re in, and it’ll look like an arrow pointing backwards) or you can click on ‘Back to Album’ just above and to the left of the enlarged photo you are viewing.
Did you also know you can download the pictures to your computer, or even order prints directly from the photo album?
When you are looking at the close-up view of any picture, take a look to the right of that photo. You will see one link for ‘Download This Photo’ and another for ‘Order Prints’.
When you download a picture it will be saved onto the computer you are on. When it is saved to that computer, you can look at it any time without having to come back to the Family Photos page online. If you have a printer, you can also print the pictures from your computer and keep or frame them.
If you want to order printed photos of any picture, click the ‘Order Prints’ link. This will add a picture to an order you can process when you are finished browsing for purchases. If you click ‘View Order’ (upper right of the page) it will take you to a page that asks what company you want to order from, and then you will be asked about the number of prints, sizes and possibly finishes. You can order prints of any picture up in the online photo album. These prints are about $1 each—not the most affordable, but it’s an easy way to get them.
Of course, some of you I’m sure don’t want to bother with all that. You know who you are… ;)
If there are photos you want and you’d like prints of them, let me know and I can order them for you. When I receive the pictures, I’ll take them to you and you can reimburse me. Just let me know and I’ll take care of it. Or you can bug one of your other siblings, cousins, etc.
This has been another ‘How To…’ for visitors to The Herd.
Cheers!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Family Billiards: The Hustle's In The Genes
The day after Thanksgiving, some of the Fam went to play pool together at Don Q's. Salene sent me some great pics of the happenings. Here's what Salene has to say:
My mom has been wanting to shoot pool for a long time now. I promised I would take her the next time I came to S.B., so here we are at Don Q's on Chapala. It was a good time :)
My mom hasn't played in decades and I play weekly. I have competed in tournaments all over the Bay Area and in Las Vegas. First game against my mom, just like she said she would, she whooped my butt. I liked it :) Actually I think it is in the blood, because all the cousins were shooting really well... even lil Megan who has never shot before!
So who showed up? Auntie Rosie, Megan, Salene, Candy, Bosco, Ronny, Wolf, and one of the guys' friends.
After that, I think I'ma take my nina Rosie to some out-of-town pool halls and hustle some cash ;)
Thanks Salene for the pics!
Here's the album.
My mom has been wanting to shoot pool for a long time now. I promised I would take her the next time I came to S.B., so here we are at Don Q's on Chapala. It was a good time :)
My mom hasn't played in decades and I play weekly. I have competed in tournaments all over the Bay Area and in Las Vegas. First game against my mom, just like she said she would, she whooped my butt. I liked it :) Actually I think it is in the blood, because all the cousins were shooting really well... even lil Megan who has never shot before!
So who showed up? Auntie Rosie, Megan, Salene, Candy, Bosco, Ronny, Wolf, and one of the guys' friends.
After that, I think I'ma take my nina Rosie to some out-of-town pool halls and hustle some cash ;)
Thanks Salene for the pics!
Here's the album.
Who Wants To Work
I’ll be the first to admit that moving fitness equipment—the weight machines, racks, benches and cardio machines y’all like to work out on—isn’t the easiest thing to do.
Last week, when Body Tech (of Esparza Sr.) needed help, I called to ask who in the family could aid on an installation in Bakersfield.
The first thing I thought that made me laugh was that the list of available family members was short. Turns out we’ve all got jobs these days. Who’da thought?!
But still, Bosco came to the rescue.
We left Santa Barbara at 6am on Thursday.
There were 31 pieces of equipment that came on a semi trailer. Some we had to dismantle into smaller sections that could be carried and fit through doorways and passageways. We tried to keep it to 200 pounds per piece, but there were some things that we couldn’t manage to take apart. That meant some things weighing 400 pounds.
Of course, its not like we could just put things on a dolly and roll them through the door. That would be easy. No, we had to take them up a flight of stairs with a 180-degree turn at the landing. We had help from others of course. But when it takes 4 guys to carry an item up the stairs, and each guy ends up sweating and breathing hard after one piece, you know it’s got to be heavy.
We left the site at 2:30am Friday morning and rolled into Santa Barbara at 6am—exactly 24 hours after we’d left, with 13 hours of backbreaking work, 6 hours of driving, 5 hours of waiting, and no sleep.
Bosco was getting paid for the job, cash no less, and he told me on the way home, “Hey, you know, if your dad ever has any other jobs and if he needs help again: tell him not to call me!”
Ah, that was good times.
Last week, when Body Tech (of Esparza Sr.) needed help, I called to ask who in the family could aid on an installation in Bakersfield.
The first thing I thought that made me laugh was that the list of available family members was short. Turns out we’ve all got jobs these days. Who’da thought?!
But still, Bosco came to the rescue.
We left Santa Barbara at 6am on Thursday.
There were 31 pieces of equipment that came on a semi trailer. Some we had to dismantle into smaller sections that could be carried and fit through doorways and passageways. We tried to keep it to 200 pounds per piece, but there were some things that we couldn’t manage to take apart. That meant some things weighing 400 pounds.
Of course, its not like we could just put things on a dolly and roll them through the door. That would be easy. No, we had to take them up a flight of stairs with a 180-degree turn at the landing. We had help from others of course. But when it takes 4 guys to carry an item up the stairs, and each guy ends up sweating and breathing hard after one piece, you know it’s got to be heavy.
We left the site at 2:30am Friday morning and rolled into Santa Barbara at 6am—exactly 24 hours after we’d left, with 13 hours of backbreaking work, 6 hours of driving, 5 hours of waiting, and no sleep.
Bosco was getting paid for the job, cash no less, and he told me on the way home, “Hey, you know, if your dad ever has any other jobs and if he needs help again: tell him not to call me!”
Ah, that was good times.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Marina's Post Surgery Update
Those who have spoken to her say Marina is doing well after her surgery.
I expect she'll be in need of some assistance with her kids and her household, as with her recovery after the last surgery.
But I also expect people will do their part, and help her get to 100%. 'Cuz that's what families do for each other.
Wish her a fast recovery, y'all.
I expect she'll be in need of some assistance with her kids and her household, as with her recovery after the last surgery.
But I also expect people will do their part, and help her get to 100%. 'Cuz that's what families do for each other.
Wish her a fast recovery, y'all.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Third Saturday Breakfast
Third Saturday Breakfast is on December 15th.
That would be this coming Saturday.
Don't forget, mark your calendars (click the link for one), and spread the word.
Last month we had a great turnout. Let's see if we can replicate that or even beat it this month.
See y'all then.
That would be this coming Saturday.
Don't forget, mark your calendars (click the link for one), and spread the word.
Last month we had a great turnout. Let's see if we can replicate that or even beat it this month.
See y'all then.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Quote For Your Weekend
Here is a great quote to ponder over your weekend:
"Great Minds discuss Ideas. Average Minds discuss Events. Small Minds discuss People."
Attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt, wife of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, though this is not substantiated.
"Great Minds discuss Ideas. Average Minds discuss Events. Small Minds discuss People."
Attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt, wife of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, though this is not substantiated.
Friday, December 7, 2007
The Modlin Compound
I was at Monica’s house the other day, just day-dreaming on the deck, and I was gazing out over the property. First at the main house with it’s tri-level construction, then to the studio (known as ‘Studio C’), and finally to the apartment behind the gate.
So what was I thinking this whole time? I wondered how many of us have, at one time or another, called a spot at the Modlin Compound ‘home’.
Over the years since, I imagine there’s been quite a few places to rest your head: the Main House, 1119 ½, Studio C, the Old Kids Room or the New Kids Room, the Couch, the Spare Room…
Of course, I also looked at the various storage sheds in the backyard and said to myself, ‘Maybe…? Nah! Couldn’t have…’
I imagine the Dog Run, the Pigeon Coop, the Bird Cage, the Tool Shed/Back Cabin, or even the Front Porch looked inviting at one time—but they weren’t THAT inviting, right?
Kidding!
But seriously, I couldn’t think of a Poll for this month, so this is the survey we’ll have on The Herd instead.
Who in our family (Gramma and Grampa on down the line) has called the Modlin Compound home?
Take some time to think about it, because I know there are a lot of names to consider. Leave your list as a comment to this post. Look to the right column and click on the ‘How To Post Comments’ link. That will tell you what to do.
I’m looking forward to seeing the list y’all come up with, and I wonder if anyone will be able to figure out all the names. I don’t have an answer, but I think it’ll be good times to try and build a list.
So what was I thinking this whole time? I wondered how many of us have, at one time or another, called a spot at the Modlin Compound ‘home’.
Over the years since, I imagine there’s been quite a few places to rest your head: the Main House, 1119 ½, Studio C, the Old Kids Room or the New Kids Room, the Couch, the Spare Room…
Of course, I also looked at the various storage sheds in the backyard and said to myself, ‘Maybe…? Nah! Couldn’t have…’
I imagine the Dog Run, the Pigeon Coop, the Bird Cage, the Tool Shed/Back Cabin, or even the Front Porch looked inviting at one time—but they weren’t THAT inviting, right?
Kidding!
But seriously, I couldn’t think of a Poll for this month, so this is the survey we’ll have on The Herd instead.
Who in our family (Gramma and Grampa on down the line) has called the Modlin Compound home?
Take some time to think about it, because I know there are a lot of names to consider. Leave your list as a comment to this post. Look to the right column and click on the ‘How To Post Comments’ link. That will tell you what to do.
I’m looking forward to seeing the list y’all come up with, and I wonder if anyone will be able to figure out all the names. I don’t have an answer, but I think it’ll be good times to try and build a list.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
'Tis The Season: Flashback
In the spirit of the Christmas Season, I dug through things and found an old recording made by one of the Uncles (you guess which one) telling Christmas stories to a friend of the family. We're talking Magna Vista days right here...
That might not be the truth, but you can see how it could be once you listen to the video. You might recognize it, too. Make sure you have your speakers on, and enjoy.
Presenting, Santa Claus and His Old Lady.
That might not be the truth, but you can see how it could be once you listen to the video. You might recognize it, too. Make sure you have your speakers on, and enjoy.
Presenting, Santa Claus and His Old Lady.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Thoughts and Prayers
As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, and as many of you may well already know, Auntie Marina goes in for surgery tomorrow.
This will be the second surgery she's had in the last several months to remove an aneurysm from her brain. What is an aneurysm, you ask? Here's what wikipedia says:
An aneurysm is a localized, blood-filled dilation (bulge) of a blood vessel caused by disease or weakening of the vessel wall. Aneurysms most commonly occur in arteries at the base of the brain and in the aorta (the main artery coming out of the heart), a so-called aortic aneurysm. The bulge in a blood vessel can burst and lead to death at any time. The larger an aneurysm becomes, the more likely it is to burst. Aneurysms can usually be treated.
Click here for the rest of the article.
Here is some information from the Mayo Clinic:
The National Institutes of Health also has good, reliable information. Click here for more.
While some surgeries can be called routine, it is always a good thing to give good thoughts and many prayers for anyone undergoing surgery. And let us also hope for a quick and easy recovery.
This will be the second surgery she's had in the last several months to remove an aneurysm from her brain. What is an aneurysm, you ask? Here's what wikipedia says:
An aneurysm is a localized, blood-filled dilation (bulge) of a blood vessel caused by disease or weakening of the vessel wall. Aneurysms most commonly occur in arteries at the base of the brain and in the aorta (the main artery coming out of the heart), a so-called aortic aneurysm. The bulge in a blood vessel can burst and lead to death at any time. The larger an aneurysm becomes, the more likely it is to burst. Aneurysms can usually be treated.
Click here for the rest of the article.
Here is some information from the Mayo Clinic:
- -Brain aneurysms sometimes run in families.
- -Hypertension and Smoking are related to increased risk of aneurysms, and can worsen conditions.
- -Smoking can lead to multiple aneurysms.
- -Short, rapid increases in blood-pressure associated with straining and lifting heavy objects can also lead to aneurysms.
The National Institutes of Health also has good, reliable information. Click here for more.
While some surgeries can be called routine, it is always a good thing to give good thoughts and many prayers for anyone undergoing surgery. And let us also hope for a quick and easy recovery.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Get On The Bus
This was discussed over Thanksgiving Weekend while the Nor Cal Contingent visited. Namely, some of the Aunties and Uncles were thinking it a good idea to charter a bus to take us Santa Barbarians to Morgan Hill, CA for Leah's wedding.
Well, I did some looking. I didn't do in-depth research. I simply wanted to get an idea for the cost. I emailed 2 companies: US Coachways, and Santa Barbara Airbus. Though it's been over a week, I only have a response from US Coachways.
Here is what they say:
We have available a 56 passenger coach. It comes equipped with high back bucket reclining seats, TV, VCR, AC, AM-FM stereo, rest rooms and some have CD/DVD players. On any overnight stays a private room is required for the driver. The price will be $2390 plus a 15-20% gratuity for the driver. We work on a first come first serve basis. If you decide to book please sign all forms and completely fill out the attached forms and return them to us.
So, that's $2,390 base cost. The 15% gratuity adds $358.50. And let's estimate the room for the driver at $120 for the night. That puts the estimated cost for the bus charter at $2,868.50.
If we have 50 people on the bus, it makes the cost about $60 per person (no discounts for kids and senior citizens).
I'm fairly confident this is what we can expect, with little deviation, if we decide to go with a bus for the trip. There are details we must work out, and we can talk about those things later.
My opinion: this would be fun. We'd all be on the bus, free to move seats, chatting it up the whole way. There's be no wear-and-tear on personal vehicles. This would be like sitting on Monica's deck on any given afternoon. Good times, I say.
Think about it and discuss amongst yourselves. Ask and I can provide you some things to consider.
Well, I did some looking. I didn't do in-depth research. I simply wanted to get an idea for the cost. I emailed 2 companies: US Coachways, and Santa Barbara Airbus. Though it's been over a week, I only have a response from US Coachways.
Here is what they say:
We have available a 56 passenger coach. It comes equipped with high back bucket reclining seats, TV, VCR, AC, AM-FM stereo, rest rooms and some have CD/DVD players. On any overnight stays a private room is required for the driver. The price will be $2390 plus a 15-20% gratuity for the driver. We work on a first come first serve basis. If you decide to book please sign all forms and completely fill out the attached forms and return them to us.
So, that's $2,390 base cost. The 15% gratuity adds $358.50. And let's estimate the room for the driver at $120 for the night. That puts the estimated cost for the bus charter at $2,868.50.
If we have 50 people on the bus, it makes the cost about $60 per person (no discounts for kids and senior citizens).
I'm fairly confident this is what we can expect, with little deviation, if we decide to go with a bus for the trip. There are details we must work out, and we can talk about those things later.
My opinion: this would be fun. We'd all be on the bus, free to move seats, chatting it up the whole way. There's be no wear-and-tear on personal vehicles. This would be like sitting on Monica's deck on any given afternoon. Good times, I say.
Think about it and discuss amongst yourselves. Ask and I can provide you some things to consider.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
December Birthdays
Mornings in Santa Barbara from now until the middle of Spring are some of the best. The skies are blue, and most often without any clouds. The air is crisp, and refreshing. The sun, as it rises above the mountains and over the Channel, turns everything a wonderful golden hue...
I just wanted to mention that.
Without further ado, as we always do here on The Herd at the beginning of a new month, here are the birthdays for the month of December:
As usual, I know there are more out there. But I haven't gotten feedback on the totality of birthdays yet, so this is all I have. Wish these folks a Happy Birthday-- remember, December folks usually lose out to Christmas, so it's a nice thing to go out of your way to wish them well!
I just wanted to mention that.
Without further ado, as we always do here on The Herd at the beginning of a new month, here are the birthdays for the month of December:
- Tyvador 'Ty' Hernandez, December 6
- Johnny Hernandez, December 11
- Trina Garcia, December 29
- Matthew 'Matt' Hernandez, December 29
As usual, I know there are more out there. But I haven't gotten feedback on the totality of birthdays yet, so this is all I have. Wish these folks a Happy Birthday-- remember, December folks usually lose out to Christmas, so it's a nice thing to go out of your way to wish them well!
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