Comments Posted By John McCrarey
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As a matter of fact, I’m a big fan of Huey Lewis. I did a quick search of archives and see that I’ve only referenced a song by him one other time, and it was also Workin’ for a Livin’.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 26/May/2023 @ 6:53 am
Brian, The email didn’t go through (I used the Yahoo address from the comments). If you want to email me (john.m.mccrarey on gmail) that’s cool. I do have WhatsApp on my phone but I’ve never used it. Anyway, for planning purposes I arrive on 11 June and will be departing on the 18th.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 27/May/2023 @ 7:08 am
Brian, sent an email with my dates in Pattaya. Glad to grab a drink if your schedule permits. Are you on Messenger?
» Posted By John McCrarey On 25/May/2023 @ 10:05 am
I would love to live in one of the new builds, but they are all being built as the owner’s residence.
I have good intentions about upping my travel game to include trips within the PI. My thinking now is a quarterly international trip interspersed with weekend trips around the country. Bohol has been on my list for way too long; that will be next after Thailand.
Yeah, I don’t do well with heights either, especially on things like suspension bridges that sway as you cross. Those stairs would kick my ass going either up or down, I fear.
I hadn’t noticed the photoshop–they both look so natural!
» Posted By John McCrarey On 25/May/2023 @ 5:24 am
I didn’t fart, but couldn’t resist explaining the expressions on the faces of the gals behind me. I actually changed the captions to the fart joke after seeing the two photos back-to-back…
» Posted By John McCrarey On 24/May/2023 @ 5:53 am
Actually, those were cookies, not ramen, but the thought occurred to me too. They have a dog adobo here that is similar to bositang.
The Hash song overplays it; there is rarely something stupid that earns you the Hashit. This week, 40 Kilo Ass had to give it away, and he picked me because I was standing in close proximity and he knew my Hash name. I’ll have to find someone to pass it on to next week, but I doubt I’ll have any better reason.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 23/May/2023 @ 6:03 pm
It’s all good, Dan. I don’t want to be where I’m not wanted. Zero hard feelings on my part.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 23/May/2023 @ 7:16 am
Yeah, it was a stupid reaction. I hate coins but I should have taken them anyway and then thrown them to the first beggar I saw. Oh well.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 22/May/2023 @ 7:47 am
Well, I’ve used “Alone again, naturally” before and I try to avoid repetition. The song that photo invoked was “So far away” by Carole King.
Yep, if you are not a healthy liver, you’ll be dead one.
I can’t remember where that restaurant was or the name, although it is a safe bet that it is (was) in Itaewon. It’s interesting all the things you miss when you don’t know the language–thanks for the translations. No idea what we ate, but I doubt it was anything more exotic than my usual Korean favorites.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 22/May/2023 @ 7:09 am
Thanks for the advice, Kevin. I’m hoping some modest changes will suffice. I am pushing myself to add some additional steps, even when my body is crying out for me to stop (it’s been really hot lately, even the locals are complaining).
I was hungry this morning and that box of raisin bran on top of the fridge seemed to be calling to me. I resisted and grabbed a jar of dill pickle slices instead. A couple of those satiated the hunger and then I took my walk to avoid further temptation.
My plan as of now is to drink beer every other day. Not saying I won’t visit the bars on the beerless days, but I’ll no carb gin with soda water on those occasions. Anyway, we’ll see how that works out for me.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 21/May/2023 @ 1:55 pm
What works for me on the low carb diet is that you don’t have to feel hungry–it’s more about what you eat rather than how much. Big steak, no potato works for me!
Yeah, I’m trying to up my daily step count. Had to push myself to go the distance yesterday, but I did it. I already take Tuesday off from walking–shopping day!
» Posted By John McCrarey On 21/May/2023 @ 5:50 am
Kev, that’s right; the docs didn’t seem overly concerned with most of my readings, saying some high ones were counteracted by others in the normal range. And their advice was very similar to what you had given in a previous comment here (so similar that I was tempted to show them). They also cautioned about the impact of blood sugar on insulin levels. They didn’t mention a monitor, and I didn’t volunteer–we’ll see about that if things don’t improve. Your opinions may diverge from theirs in some ways–they cautioned against ketosis and didn’t seem to be fans of fasting.
I don’t really know John outside of the restaurant, and he didn’t seem receptive to accepting contributions during his initial illness. I’d be down with buying the washing machine and sponsoring a helper. He’s a proud man; I’ll have to maybe propose it as charity towards his wife. We’ll see.
As for your dad joke, that was a pretty ballsy one to tell. People might think you are nuts.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 20/May/2023 @ 7:26 am
Good stuff, Dan, thanks!
Yeah, I have the best docs ever, at least in the sense that they do seem to make realistic suggestions suited to both the needs and wants of the patient. I guess I should read up more on the B-12 injections, but it is certainly worth a try.
I’m not going to give up my booze, just moderate the type and amount I ingest. I agree that my best course of action will be improving my diet and reducing my carb intake. I know I can do it.
John Kim is indeed a lucky man, notwithstanding his current situation. The impressive thing is that he knows it. Too many folks (including me) forget about their blessings and get wrapped up in feeling sorry for themselves. I am going to strive to be better in that regard as well.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 20/May/2023 @ 7:03 am
Soju, who woulda thunk a piece of litter on a deserted highway would invoke such deep thoughts? It’s true what you say, though. The mystery behind who, what, and why the empty dick box found it’s way to that location might make for a good movie–a crime drama perhaps, since littering is technically illegal.
As for the size, I’ll defer to your speculation. I’m no expert in that regard. It is weird though that every Filipina I get to know carnally says the same three things: Ouch! Oh shit! Already?
» Posted By John McCrarey On 20/May/2023 @ 7:33 am
Kev, yeah, I was just attempting to avoid “mangrove grove” and I thought five guys walking through the trees kinda looked like a mangrove.
Well, whatever Chixsa is, it is available at Shamboli’s, a pizza joint and came in a pizza-like box. Should have got a picture.
I’ll post about the doctor’s visit today, but their advice pretty much tracked with yours. They also mentioned needing to be mindful of the insulin levels as I work to lower my blood sugar. So, it is back to a low carb lifestyle for me.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 19/May/2023 @ 8:04 am
Dan, your comment brought back memories of some of those talks I got from my dad when I misbehaved back in the day. Sometimes followed by him removing his belt and saying “this is gonna hurt me more than you” (I don’t think it did).
Anyway, harsh but fair and there is wisdom in your words. My docs agree there are some lifestyle changes in order, and diet is at the top of the list.
I’m motivated, let’s hope that I have the self-discipline to make it happen!
» Posted By John McCrarey On 19/May/2023 @ 8:12 am
Dan, no problem with the truth as you see it and no apologies necessary. Let it rip!
» Posted By John McCrarey On 19/May/2023 @ 7:57 am
Wow! Thanks for the insights, advice, and guidance Kevin. Or should I say, Dr. Kim?
I admit I’ve gotten a tad lazy when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet. Looks like it is past time to get back with the program. The desserts will be the hardest thing to let go.
I’m kind of at the stage in my life where I will have to weigh lifestyle changes against their impact on quality of life. Not to be overly dramatic, but what’s the point of living if the things you enjoy most are verboten? I guess I need to embrace the “everything in moderation” mindset going forward.
I really hope those pricks you mention aren’t a part of my future, but I guess if they help avoid even worse consequences it’s worth the effort.
I’ll keep you updated on what I find out.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 18/May/2023 @ 6:54 am
Really enjoyed that article featuring your Aunt Gertrude. Have you ever visited the “Spy House”?
Yeah, I’m pretty cautious about inviting strangers into my house so it is especially troubling when you get ripped off by someone you “know”. Shit happens, I suppose.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 17/May/2023 @ 6:35 am
Brian, I don’t *think* she’s pregnant now, it looks to me like she just hasn’t lost the baby fat from the last one. I’ll let you know for sure in a couple of months…
It’s also been shocking and hard to understand the apparent aversion to using modern birth control methods here, even among the gals who make a living fucking strangers. It’s a mystery.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 17/May/2023 @ 6:23 am
Jollibee does seem to be some kind on national treasure. For fast food, it is surprisingly good.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 16/May/2023 @ 7:02 am
Brian and Kev, yeah, I’m coming around to your way of thinking regarding the gift rejection. The only negative here was my reaction–Lyn can’t be faulted for her honesty and independence. She’s different than most of the women I meet, and I need to adjust my attitude accordingly.
As to the larger issues associated with my ability to maintain a platonic male-female friendship, I’ve managed that in the past. I don’t know that I would choose that with Lyn, although I’m not really in a position to expect otherwise. Where things might go is entirely on her, but the reality is she lives two hours away, and her children are her priority. Perhaps being her “escape from stress” is the only role for me to play in her life, take it or leave it.
Whether that role would involve sex is also TBD. I’m not the horndog I used to be, but I am also very attracted to her hot bod. I didn’t push it this weekend, but I’m not sure I’d enjoy resisting those urges over the long haul. I mean, if we continue to meet once a year, no big deal. But monthly sexless rendezvous is probably outside the scope of my ability to enjoy.
And about that apparently failed pun–the vial in the title was a reference to the small doses of being with Lyn I experienced. Of course, any joke you have to explain isn’t funny. I’ll try and do better in the future.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 15/May/2023 @ 6:26 am
Kev, Joy loves the pork chops almost as much as I do. I wasn’t hungry enough that night, hence the salad. Interesting perspective on the functionality of a properly prepared salad. I hadn’t really considered that aspect, but yeah, most of those veggies along the side didn’t get eaten. Especially those big slices of tomatoes–chunk ’em up and put them on top with the lettuce. As for the cheese, your suggestion sounds good, but honestly, those little slices tasted fine, especially wrapped around a chunk of roasted chicken.
I’ve been to Taos, too. Used to go skiing there back in my younger days. I don’t remember the traffic but I loved the mountains!
» Posted By John McCrarey On 13/May/2023 @ 7:34 am
Now, now, Rascal. I provide the materials, but Joy does the stuffing!
I’m halfway through Lucifer now and pretty much hooked. Will be interesting to see if I’ll keep up my newfound television routine when I’m done.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 13/May/2023 @ 7:20 am
Hey, lolas (grandmothers) need love too! I’m not sure what was up with those expressions, maybe they were tired of waiting for the old guy.
When I first met Aine a couple of years ago, someone who knew her ex warned me she was a drama queen. Now it seems we can’t even manage to share a drink and a chat at the bar without misunderstandings and hurt feelings. My big head is firmly in control with this one.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 12/May/2023 @ 6:54 am
Soju: Good song, great band. Sorry to hear the news about Gary.
At least the doctors are cheaper here, but coincidentally, my blood work cost me almost $200 today.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 11/May/2023 @ 1:23 pm
Okay, when you lay it all out like that, I see what you are saying, but the reality is I got your intended meaning the first time. Perhaps my blissful ignorance of the technical grammatical requirements serves some purpose after all. But thanks for the lesson! I’d never really thought of structural issues like this one before.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 11/May/2023 @ 6:38 am
Kev, well, there are some advantages to “fooling yourself,” especially when you go in eyes wide open with a purpose and objective in mind. In my experience, the fantasy of the joys that come with having a regular girlfriend never lives up to the realities that living day-to-day brings. It just seems that if I could hire the right “companion” for the hours I wanted one and be free when I didn’t could be an ideal solution. Again, I’m not talking only about sex; just someone to share adventures and hang out with when I want company, and to leave me alone when I don’t has some appeal. It would require the right woman and complete and upfront honesty about goals and intentions, but it might work. I didn’t see the Riker episode, but it doesn’t sound as off-putting to me as it is to you. We just have different perspectives, I guess. You seem to be completely at ease in a life of relative solitude; I always feel like I’m missing out on something.
Geez, I can’t believe spellcheck let me get away with that cemetery fuck up. Damn.
I also had no idea that Cheez Whiz was a legitimate ingredient for a cheesesteak. I was given a cheddar or mozzarella option when I ordered. Anyway, I liked it!
» Posted By John McCrarey On 11/May/2023 @ 6:30 am
Hey, Brian. Yes, I saw the comment about finding a charity and would have sworn I responded to you. One more example of my brain not being up to par lately. I liked your idea enough that I’ve included it in my “rich man fantasies” of things I’d do differently if I were wealthy. In the fantasy, I create and fund a charity like the one you describe.
Here in the real world, I’m kind of in a box. For example, the mountain mama relies on me for food and household expenses for her and three children (her American ex-husband was sending support but died last year, so I stepped in to fill the void). Cutting her off would be pretty devastating for them, and I’d feel guilty as hell about it. I budgeted 10,000 pesos per month (2500 weekly) in support, and that’s really not a problem for me. It’s the constant “emergencies” like utilities and medicine each week that are wearisome. I’m getting better at turning down her frequent requests for additional funds (even though she is willing to earn the money through massage services). Still, this is a charity project I volunteered for, and I think it is having a positive impact.
It’s all the other “nickel and dime” requests that wear me out. An occasional handout that is little more than pocket money to me is okay, but it never seems to end, and after you do it once, the frequency of these emergencies seems to grow exponentially. This is where I need to get better at just saying no, and maybe the charity referral you propose would alleviate some of the guilt associated with rejection.
Actually, when I first moved here, there was an orphanage in Olongapo City that I sponsored. My selfish motivation was to feel like I was making a difference while living “rich” in a poor country. After several months, both my driver and my helper took me aside and advised me I was being scammed–the food and money I was donating weren’t going to the kids. So, I started taking a more hands-on approach.
I’ll keep my eyes open for the kind of charity that might help the type of people I tend to get sucked into supporting. That will make telling individuals “no” much easier.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 11/May/2023 @ 6:01 am
«« Back To Stats PageHonestly, I don’t. Even my Grammarly cheat didn’t help. Enlighten me, please.
» Posted By John McCrarey On 11/May/2023 @ 5:21 am