We can never know about the days to come
But we think about them anyway
And I wonder if I'm really with you now
Or just chasing after some finer day.

Anticipation, anticipation
Is making me late
Is keeping me waiting

So, a reader’s comment about me someday looking back at my life and realizing I’m currently living through my good ol’ days triggered a memory–Carly Simon’s 1971 hit song Anticipation. And it also underscored similar feelings I’ve been having lately–these very well may be the best of times. Am I smart enough to embrace them and allow myself to let go of the past and be happy with the life I have? Well, there’s only one way to find out. Live it and love it is my new mantra.

Last night I discovered I do not have a drinking problem. By my count, I consumed twelve bottles of beer before my self-imposed curfew of 9:00 p.m. Yeah, I know that’s pretty damn impressive. Granted, they were San Miguel Zero (only 3% alcohol), but still.

I started my evening at the Hideaway bar. Three bottles for me and three lady drinks for my pal Joy. Everyone seemed to enjoy my brownies too. Then I decided to head over to John’s place and grab a bite to eat.

On the way out, I passed this vendor:

Got to John’s place and headed upstairs. And there racking up the pool balls was my friend and ex, Jessa. I had forgotten she started working there. Naturally, I invited her to join me for a beer. Then we ate (chicken wings and chicken fingers). The beer kept flowing and we had some good talk and a few laughs. She seems to be doing well despite the recent breakup with her fiance. I guess I could learn from her example.

Here’s the newest joke in my repertoire: “Okay, I’m going to ask you three questions. Each question has the same answer. And I’m going to give you the answer to the questions: addicted. Are you ready? Okay, what do you call someone who drinks alcohol all day long and then passes out on the floor? Addicted. Good! What do you call someone who uses drugs every day and can’t function without them? Addicted. Right! Last question: What slapped you in the face this morning? Addicted…hey! (laughter) Get it?

Jessa’s quitting time was 7:00, but she stayed on with me. When it came time to go, I had amassed a bill of over 2500 pesos ($50). That included my nine bottles of beer, Jessa’s lady drinks, and our food. So, that’s what an “expensive” night out looks like in the Philippines. The best of times, indeed!

And I tell you how easy it feels to be with you
How right your arms feel around me.
But I, I rehearsed those words just late last night
When I was thinking about how right tonight might be.

Anticipation, anticipation
Is making me late
Is keeping me waiting

Woke up at my usual 0430, none the worse for wear. Completed my usual routines, then headed out for the Friday group hike. The schedule Hare for Monday’s Hash had to cancel, so Jim and Troy stepped up to take his place. Our Friday hike became a scouting expedition for Monday’s trail. We took a Jeepney ride three kilometers or so up the highway and began our hike there. The problem with scouting a trail is you’ll make a climb, hit a dead end, come back down, and try again. That gets tiring pretty quick. Scott and I bailed after a while and walked back to town on the highway.

Here are some photos for you:

I don’t know why I feel like such a fool today.

Anyway, it’s a good life and I’m glad I have it. I will throw some darts and drink some beers later on and make it the best of times!

And tomorrow we might not be together
I'm no prophet, lord I don't know nature's way
So I'll try to see into your eyes right now
And stay right here, 'cause these are the good old days.

I actually used to own this album. Good stuff!