That’s a conundrum I can’t answer, but I can attest to the fact that despite a near total lack of practice I threw some of my best darts last night. That included two 180’s (that’s three triple 20’s if you are keeping score) which is the highest points possible in a game of 501. Pretty routine for the pros but a rare event for us amateurs. The bar recognized my feat with a chit good for one free beer (the other 180 was in warm ups so didn’t count). And my partner and I went on to a first place finish, going through the winner’s bracket undefeated. Even more satisfying was beating Steve, the non-drinking Englishman, twice!
Speaking of my partner, that’s Jerelyn. She’s also a waitress at Alley Cats. A real cutie who just turned 21. In addition to overcoming my lack of practice, I had to deal with the distraction of Jerelyn’s sweet ass while I watched her toss her arrows. Damn, to be young again!
Jerelyn is relatively new to the bar and also to the game of darts. So she has a ways to go to become proficient at the sport. She’s a sweetie though and enthusiastic. It was a good time playing with her and her reaction to winning was precious. There was a small turnout last night so her share of the winnings was only 250 pesos, but that’s pretty close to a day’s wages here.
Anyway, good times at the oche!
In other news, the sun has made a rare appearance for the better part of the day today. I got a good walk in this morning and I’m fixin’ to go out and get my afternoon groove on. But damn, it’s hot. In a steamy, sultry kind of way. That’s one thing about the Philippines, you can always find something to complain about weather-wise.
I’ll leave you with this photo of my lazy dogs. As you can see, Lucky has really grown. Probably 3/4 the size of Buddy now and he’s probably still got some growing to do.
Those are my good boys! Except when they poop in the house. It’s a work in progress, but we’ll get it figured out. Soon I hope!
Hold on, I guess that what’s called a strategic comma placement.
Anyway, I was surprised to get a message from my dart league captain advising that I’d be representing the Lagoon team in the MVP end of season singles tournament yesterday. I’ve honestly felt like a part time member of the team given my propensity to miss matches due to travel, including the final two weeks of the regular season. Seeing as how I’ve not been practicing (I did play once in Korea) and the MVP features the best player from each league team, I fully expected it would be two and done for me (it’s a double elimination format).
Well, I won by forfeit in the first round because my opponent didn’t show. In the second round I faced Alan who plays out of Alley Cats and is someone I’ve had some non-dart related issues with in the past. He’s a good darter though and given my lack of practice I didn’t expect to beat him. I got lucky in the first leg of 501 as Alan struggled long enough with the double out to allow me to catch up and eventually win the game. The second leg was Cricket, which I consider my better game. I don’t throw any better in a Cricket game but I understand the nuances of strategy and sometimes beat superior players because of that. Well, despite taking an early lead I wound up losing the leg. Alan won the coin flip and chose Cricket again which pleased me just fine. This time I stayed on my game and won the leg and the match handily.
So I advanced to the finals of the winner’s bracket and had to face Steve, an Englishman who is relatively new in town. Of course the English have a dart playing gene and Steve is an excellent player. And he does not drink alcoholic beverages, which is almost heresy in a bar league. I’d equate it to those biological males who identify as female and compete in women’s competitions. So yeah, that’s my excuse for getting my ass kicked in two legs.
Back to the loser’s bracket where I eventually faced off against Alan again. Almost identical results, me winning the third cricket leg to take the match. Which put me in the finals against Steve. And he once again completely dominated me. Ah well, a second place finish was much more than I expected. Will I be motivated to get off my lazy ass and practice so that perhaps one day I might actually beat Steve? Stay tuned!
The MVP singles lineup. I do stand out in a crowd, don’t I? Oh, the tournament was played at the local VFW, hence the American flag…
In other news it appears that rainy season is upon us. We’ve had rain for the past couple of days and nights, including a downpour just before I was to head out for the dart tourney. I almost said “fuck it” and stayed home but decided since I’d been asked to represent the team I should follow through.
I’m still shocked that in a country where it rains a lot there is such poor drainage. The streets were like rivers last night which is a real pain in the ass. And while it didn’t rain this morning during my walk, many of the streets were covered in mud from last night’s flooding. Oh well, that’s life in the Philippines. It’s still hot too, but at least with some cloud cover you can avoid the direct sunlight. And as I type these words the thunder is rolling once again. My afternoon hike may be in peril.
Continuing on with the theme of yesterday’s post, I remembered a song while I was responding to comments: “Is that all there is?”. It’s funny in a way because it was a big hit for Peggy Lee in 1969, but I don’t recall ever having heard it until I watched some obscure movie from 2007 called The Nines. Anyway, I think the song pretty accurately captures the way I feel at times. Hell, maybe we all do. But if one is striving to live in the moment it seems unreasonable to expect every moment to be full of wonder and excitement.
And whether my beer is half-full or half-empty I’m fully prepared to say “one more please!”.
I remember when I was a very little girl, our house caught on fire I’ll never forget the look on my father’s face as he gathered me up in his arms and raced through the burning building out to the pavement I stood there shivering in my pajamas and watched the whole world go up in flames And when it was all over I said to myself, is that all there is to a fire
Is that all there is, is that all there is If that’s all there is my friends, then let’s keep dancing Let’s break out the booze and have a ball If that’s all there is
And when I was twelve years old, my father took me to a circus, the greatest show on earth There were clowns and elephants and dancing bears And a beautiful lady in pink tights flew high above our heads And so I sat there watching the marvelous spectacle I had the feeling that something was missing I don’t know what, but when it was over I said to myself, “is that all there is to a circus?
Is that all there is, is that all there is If that’s all there is my friends, then let’s keep dancing Let’s break out the booze and have a ball If that’s all there is
Then I fell in love, head over heels in love, with the most wonderful boy in the world We would take long walks by the river or just sit for hours gazing into each other’s eyes We were so very much in love Then one day he went away and I thought I’d die, but I didn’t and when I didn’t I said to myself, is that all there is to love?
Is that all there is, is that all there is If that’s all there is my friends, then let’s keep dancing
I know what you must be saying to yourselves If that’s the way she feels about it why doesn’t she just end it all? Oh, no, not me I’m in no hurry for that final disappointment for I know just as well as I’m standing here talking to you when that final moment comes and I’m breathing my first breath, I’ll be saying to myself
Is that all there is, is that all there is If that’s all there is my friends, then let’s keep dancing Let’s break out the booze and have a ball If that’s all there is
Dart league started at 2:00 p.m. After winning our match 8-5 it was on to Alley Cats for the Friday night tourney. Finished a drunken 4th place in that event.
Played our dart league match at Johan’s Dive Resort. It seems this diver statue was giving us the congratulatory “you’re number 1” salute. Thanks for that!
I’m home now and dog assed tired. Speaking of dog asses, Lucky is still peeing in the house. I guess it’s a battle of wills. I should have the upper hand because he does want to be an inside dog. That’s fine by me, as long as he does his business outside. We’ll see how long it takes for him to figure that out.
One of the reasons I’m tired is 6+ hours of beer drinking. The other was doing my morning walk. It rained last night and was cloudy enough this morning to make taking a longish hike doable.
This is “My Bitch” via Rizal Extension. I had no idea it would look a little bit like a dick pic. Wasn’t even trying…
We are scheduled to have a power outage from 8-5 tomorrow. Well, the notice said “all of Olongapo”. My power company hails from Subic though so I’m keeping my finger crossed that I won’t be impacted. I guess I’ll know soon enough.
And so concludes this evening’s drunken post. Off to bed for me!
This weekend is the annual Beach Bash, sponsored by the local chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). I’ve participated in a couple of dart tourneys associated with the event and will play in another this afternoon. Tonight there is the Miss Beach Bash swimsuit contest which I look forward to having a look at. Ahem.
Anyway, last night was a great night of darts. Early in the tourney I threw like I have been in practice. Later on when the beer kicked in I was not as accurate or consistent, but still managed to hang on for a first place finish worth P1500 ($30). That’s pretty big money in these local tournaments.
Drew my pal Cherry as a partner and she kept up her part of the challenge.In fact, I was so impressed that I proposed we get married. Marissa was there to capture the moment for us. Oh, Cherry so “no thank you”
After darts we took a trike out to Baloy Beach to see the live band at the Lagoon Resort lounge.
I don’t recall the name of the group but they were one of the more talented bands I’ve ever seen in a local bar. Really enjoyed there music.
Anyway, it was a pretty good day here in paradise.
…but sometimes it makes good enough. At least it did last night.
As I’ve mentioned, recently I have rededicated myself to the sport of darting. Well, what I mean is that I’m practicing daily at home. And I’ve had some pretty amazing practice sessions. Sadly, they haven’t seemed to carry over in competition. But in last night’s singles tournament I could feel the difference. Although still too inconsistent, I was hitting big scores and throwing my double-out shots better. Most importantly, I was throwing with more confidence which probably explains the better play over all.
Last night was probably the best I’ve played in years. And I needed every good throw I managed. I beat some damn fine players along the way and then came back through the loser’s bracket to beat the guy who put me there for the championship. I really enjoyed the challenge and had a lot of fun playing again as well. Let’s see if I can build on this success and take it to the next level.
Speaking of winning, I had another success this morning. Let’s tell that story in photos, shall we?
As commenter Kevin Kim suggested, I renewed my quest for the elusive path from Alta Vista to Rizal Extension by working the trail backwards. The end of the beginning if you will. Here’s where the pavement of Rizal turns to soil.And here’s the beginning (or end) of the path.And once again, I used the valley as a reference point, knowing it needed to stay to my right (from this direction anyway).The trail is not a bad one, but you do have to stay alert and watch your step…Last time I came to this junction I took the path to the right and it led me down into the valley near Marian Hills. Close, but not my desired destination. Left it is then!Walkin’ in tall cotton. Er, grass or whatever that shit is. Shoulder height on me. The worse thing is that it makes it hard to see where you are putting down your feet, which can be perilous. I remembered from previous attempts that I need to keep the fence on my left…Yonder is where I don’t want to be. That’s the area Rizal Extension runs through. Earlier attempts have twice taken me in a big circle dumping me back near where I had started. Want to avoid that fiasco if I can. Alright, I’ve gone wrong here before . There are three different trails running through the grounds of this fine estate. I’ve done the left one and the right one without success. So going with the center route was a no-brainer today…My old nemesis razor wire. Stepped over the barbs this time without incident.Another house and yard with barking dogs. It always feels like I’m intruding as I walk past. Kept going straight, judging the path to the left as going back from whence I came.And there in the distance is my destination–the lovely Alta Vista subdivision I call home. Now just how do I get there from here?Decisions, decisions. My flawed sense of direction said turn right, and so I did. Will it lead me home?I enjoy rocky road ice cream. This path? Not so much.Getting back to my roots.One false step and I’m screwed big time. Obviously since I’m writing this post, my step was true…
And then suddenly it was all looking familiar. Could it be? Could it finally be?
Why yes! Success at last!No pain, no gain. Actually, didn’t feel this at the time although I suspect it happened in the tall grass. Those blades can be rather sharp…
Anyway, thanks for sticking with me until the quest was done.
Oh, and I just noticed that this is post number 3001 here at LTG. Talk about coming along on a journey! Thanks for joining me. Having readers of my ramblings is both quite humbling and very surprising. But it means a lot. I appreciate your support!
Ah, the joy and freedom of retired life. Where your time is your own to do with as you will. Of course, filling up all those vacant hours can be a chore in its own way I suppose. Here’s how I’ve been passing the time lately.
Darts. I believe I’ve mentioned that I’m trying to rededicate myself to the game. Jee Yeun had always been my biggest fan and supporter and when I lost her I also seemed to lose my passion for the game. But I figure if I’m gonna play in competition I owe it to myself to play up to my utmost capability. And so I have added a daily practice time at home to my routines.
Oddly enough I’ve had some really good practice sessions but they don’t seem to carry over to the tournaments. Played in a big money tourney on Saturday and finished a disappointing 7th place. Last night in a small singles tournament I also threw like crap and finished 4th. Well, I know my practice is not the cause of my poor play, that’s just a coincidence. I hope. Regardless, I’m going to keep after it and see if I can’t recapture some of the past glory days.
Walking. Hey, it’s what I do. Regular readers are probably getting bored with the recitations and photographs of my adventures in and around the streets of Barretto and neighboring jurisdictions. What can I say, it’s how I spend a lot of my time and some days it’s the only fodder I have for the blog. Oddly enough, I’m not really bored with the actual walks. It’s a good time to think about shit and listen to music on the headphones. It’s helped that I’m getting a bit more adventurous and exploring new paths, roads, and trails.
I’ve also got the social aspects what with doing the Monday Hash and the Wednesday Sausage Walkers, so there’s that. And I’ve been meeting and exceeding the goals I’ve set for myself. Last week I averaged over 26,000 steps a day. I think even in retired life you need that sense of satisfaction that comes with achievement. Or so I keep telling myself. That and I don’t want to get fat again.
Drinking. Now there’s something I excel at! I practice every single day, and I must be getting better at it, right? Seriously though, I’m not out of control. I mean, I see these guys at breakfast time ordering up beers and I’m always thankful I’ve committed to not being one of them. I don’t judge (much) but that’s just not the way I want to spend my daytime hours. One of the reasons I quit the Wednesday-Friday dart league is that the matches start at 2:00 p.m. And when I throw darts I drink. And I don’t like having a buzz on at five o’clock wondering “now what am I gonna do?”
Well, I have rejoined the Friday league and I do play in the Sunday tourney, both starting at 2. And quite honestly, I’m out drinking every other night of the week too. But I stick with low alcohol beer (San Mig Zero, 3% alcohol, 60 calories), although I do drink me quite a few bottles (usually 6+). Anyway, I don’t consider it a problem. I don’t get drunk drunk (i.e. falling down, out of control, acting ridiculous). Well, no more ridiculous than I act sober anyway. I very rarely ever drink at home, so it is primarily a social activity for me.
Take last night for instance. I was enjoying some time on board the Arizona floating bar, taking in the views and quaffing some brews as it were. Then a couple of Hash buddies (HIV and Demolition Derby) showed up and joined me for more beers and chat. It was a pleasant evening. Okay, maybe sometimes I do get a little bit ridiculous.
Anyway, that’s how I’ve been filling some of the hours, however comfortably and well. I’ve got some other ideas bouncing about in my head and maybe they will come to fruition. Or at least a mildly interesting blog post. Stay tuned!
Look around me, I can see my life before me Running rings around the way it used to be I am older now I have more than what I wanted But I wish that I had started long before I did And there’s so much time to make up everywhere you turn Time we have wasted on the way So much water moving underneath the bridge Let the water come and carry us away
Last night I played darts for the first time since last year. And managed to finish first. In fact, we didn’t lose a single leg during the tournament (we play best of three sets). First time I can recall that happening in all the years I’ve been playing. Not sure why, but despite not playing or practicing for weeks I threw some great darts, including a Ton-80 (highest possible score) for the first time this year.
I’m feeling almost motivated to start practicing again and maybe play in some of the big tournaments featuring top Filipino players. There’s a first time for everything I suppose. But first and foremost I want to keep it fun and enjoy myself.
First time I’ve drawn Mengie as a partner. She’s a bit erratic but plays a smart game. It was good to bring home the pesos!
UPDATE: Last January I used the “That’s a first” title for the, um, first time. That post was about my conceding to mother nature and declining to walk in -13 C weather. That’s the last time that’s gonna happen I reckon.
Getting settled into my routines and rituals such as they are. Not all that exciting or blog worthy, but that’s real life for most of us I suppose.
I played in my first dart tournament in awhile and took a first place. Even sweeter was beating my arch rival Greg in the finals.
And I also had a good time, which sadly is not always the case.
I wrapped up my dart league commitment yesterday by participating in the end of season MVP tournament. It didn’t end well, but I didn’t care. Henceforth my Wednesdays and Fridays are open again. I like the freedom to do what I want when I want, rather than having an obligation to not let the team down. The problem with league for me is it starts at 2:00 and by the time it’s over I’m buzzed on beer and so the remainder of the day is pretty much shot. With tourneys I can show up or not depending on what I want to do. My plan is to do some travel (both local and international) and I don’t want to feel tied down by darts. Darts is a pastime, not a vocation for me.
I’m still out there hoofing it every morning. I’ve been exceeding my personal daily goal, so I’m happy about that. Even pushing myself to leave my comfort zone and start exploring some new paths to experience.
Did I mention it’s been hot?
I’m more or less a passive observer of the world here as it passes, but a couple of things recently caught my attention. Not everything is cheaper in the Philippines, but labor definitely is. Unskilled workers are lucky to make the equivalent of five dollars a day. You see the impact of these low wages in many ways (other than the shanty towns). Construction projects are swarming with human bodies doing the work that machines do back home. For example, concrete is mixed by hand and carried up to the pour area by hand in buckets. And then yesterday I saw this:
Painting the lines on the highway by hand with a brush and bucket of paint. Never seen anything like that before. Oh, and as you might have noticed, there apparently is no OSHA equivalent here.
The other thing that really stands out for me is that people here have no cultural aversion to littering. Hell, it goes way beyond littering, it’s trashing the environment. I see kids and grownups routinely throwing crap out of windows and vehicles. But the other morning as I was walking across the Matain river bridge I saw something that left me gobsmacked. There was a guy walking towards me carrying a bucket full of trash. I kept saying to myself “no he isn’t, no he isn’t.” But he did. Got to the middle of the bridge and poured the contents right into the river. Which runs into Subic Bay in less than a mile. I’ll be seeing that trash again soon as I walk along the beach no doubt.
The dirty banks of the Matain river awaiting the next heavy rain to carry the garbage out into the bay and beaches.
Anyway, I don’t like to be critical of my adopted home, but cultural sensitivity only goes so far. It’s a beautiful country. I just wish the natives appreciated that as much as I do.
Oh well.
She calls out to the man on the street
He can see she’s been crying
She’s got blisters on the soles of her feet
She can’t walk but she’s trying
Oh think twice, cause it’s another day for
You and me in paradise
Oh think twice, it’s just another day for you
You and me in paradise
Just think about it
Oh lord, is there nothing more anybody can do
Oh lord, there must be something you can say
Today’s highlight was playing in the MVP tournament.
As my last hurrah for the Friday dart league that I won’t be playing in next season, I did agree to participate in the end of the season doubles event. We lost in the first round, but came back through the loser’s bracket and defeated the team that put us there. Twice. Which means we are the champions!
Good job by my partner for the night Liezel….
I can’t account for why my darts were better at the end than at the beginning. I just have to believe it had something to do with the aiming fluid.
Prove me wrong!
Anyway, it was a good night for darts.
And now the rains have started. Let’s see how much punch this super typhoon is going to throw our way….
One of the activities I’ve engaged to fill the time is playing darts again. I play league on Wednesdays and Fridays, and tourneys on Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday. And while I have yet to recapture the passion I once held for the game, through sheer repetition some of my old skills appear to be returning. I’m not the darter I once was, but I’m good enough to be reasonably competitive here in Barretto.
Given the frequency of my play I’ve brought some of my old darts jerseys out of retirement. I probably look ridiculous or worse, like I’m bragging or showing off, but what the hell. I’ve got to change shirts at least twice a day here anyway, may as well wear the ones that were purposed for darts.
Like this one. Had it custom made at an Itaewon tailor probably ten years ago or so. It actually used to fit! I’m not the man (or darter) I used to be!
My dart nickname was “The Walrus”. I had the handlebar mustache “tusks” and the big ass belly to play the role.
Times change. Things change. And life goes on. Even the parts without darts:
My Buddy chillaxin’ after our walk. Really proud of him for learning so much so fast, most importantly that I’m the boss! Not that I don’t have to remind him now and then.
Buddy does like to chew on stuff. Got him off the tissues, but he likes my dirty socks now. He must really love me! I want to find him a chew toy like this one. Enhance his watchdog image!
I’m paying big bucks for views like this, you bet your ass I’m going to enjoy it!
Keeping the grill busy with these New York steaks…
These were much more tender than the ribeyes I bought at the same store. Flavorful too.
And I’m keeping the crock pot busy. My first pulled pork experiment in the Philippines.
Still haven’t found a good pork roast yet. This meat I bought the other day was just okay. Still, better than nothing!
Here’s to hoping one day I’ll look back and remember these as the “glory days”.
The streak has ended. Finished 4th tonight at darts. Although honestly, I played pretty well and had a decent partner too. Just the way the arrows fly sometimes.
Said a goodbye to a sweet and sassy lass…
Good luck in Thailand, Joana. Have a happy life!
Maybe I’m paranoid, but it seems the gals are sending me subliminal messages…
Are you sure?
Anyway, I’m drunk (again). Had a busy day exchanging dollars for pesos and picking up dollars that I’ve had wired in from the states. Supposed to meet the landlord Monday, but honestly I haven’t seen any of the promised repairs taking place yet (I walk by the house everyday).
And my Fitbit died. Hopefully I can find a replacement soon.
Trying mightily…
Embracing the poetry of life. Whatever gets you through the day.
your life is your life
don’t let it be clubbed into dank submission.
be on the watch.
there are ways out.
there is a light somewhere.
it may not be much light but
it beats the darkness.
be on the watch.
the gods will offer you chances.
know them.
take them.
you can’t beat death but
you can beat death in life, sometimes.
and the more often you learn to do it,
the more light there will be.
your life is your life.
know it while you have it.
you are marvelous
the gods wait to delight
in you.
Sad news to learn that one of my Columbia buddies lost his battle with prostate cancer yesterday. 52 years old. Scott “Gunny” Taubl was a Marine tanker and even in retirement continued his service to our nation. Especially in his dedication to veteran’s causes. I first met Gunny when I moved home to South Carolina in 2011. He was an enthusiastic supporter of my efforts to establish a dart organization in Columbia and continued working to build the darting community long after my departure. Just one of those rare and outstanding individuals you encounter on the road of life who has his shit together and makes the world a little bit better place by his presence.
A good man is hard to find. Thank you for your service, may you rest in peace.
One of the things that comes with growing older is seeing people you know start passing away. What’s been especially disconcerting for me is that the last three friends I’ve lost have all been younger than me. Nothing like a slap-in-the-face wake up call from mortality. A good reminder to live the best you can, while you can. And also to take care of the vessel containing our life force.
Another night of darts last night and my undefeated streak (4 now) remains intact. As does my streak of failure with the ladies.
That’s Anabel. She’s a real cutie. I’d like to give her a whirl. She’s made it clear through her actions (and lack of reactions to my overtures) that she’s not interested. A shame that.
Desperate times call for desperate measures:
Maybe this will work?
I was kinda sorta hoping Anabel would join me for some after darts dessert at Treasure Island, but she bailed before the tournament was over. So, I stumbled over alone when I was finished. I was surprised to see one of my waitress favorites all snuggled up with a man at the bar. A fat old fuck (and if I’m saying that, you know he was old and fat). Now, don’t get me wrong. I was not jealous at all. The fact is, I always considered Jessa to be out of my league. Too young and pretty for a slightly less fat and old guy than the one she was with. I was disappointed to see her settling for less than she deserves, but then again, what do I know about her and her situation? I guess it also underscored that I remain alone in a country where the young gals apparently go for fat old fucks.
And another 1st Place finish! Hey, like I always say better to be lucky than good. Although I do seem to be improving.
In other news, there was a little hiccup with the house. And by hiccup I mean a major miscommunication. I met the landlord yesterday to review the lease agreement. Now, what I recall being discussed was two months rent up front (the security deposit and first month of a 12 month lease). The contract I was presented said two months security deposit, plus one year rent in advance on a three year lease. WTF?
The landlord said that it was a standard practice to pay the rent on an annual basis. Which made some sense seeing as how that was the way it often works under the “key money” concept in Korea. Still, it was a little different when Uncle Sam was footing the bill on my behalf. Anyway, I told the landlord I didn’t have that kind of cash on hand or readily available. So he offered a compromise–the security deposit plus 6 months advance rent. Well, I might be able to swing that.
Anyway, there is work to be done on the house (primarily termite damage in the kitchen and downstairs bathroom). A few other minor repairs as well. He called his construction guy out to the house (a retired American) and we all did a walk around the house together. Really liked the Yank and he will be a good source if and when I need to find some help fixing shit. I won’t be turning over any cold hard cash until I see the place is move-in ready, that’s for sure.
So today I busied myself exchanging the American dollars I have on hand and started the process of getting additional funds wired in from the states. I gave Remitly.com a go, and they actually called me here to verify some identity information. That was cool with me. Apparently, the service is primarily intended to be used within the USA. They wanted to know how long I planned to be in the Philippines. I told them I had a flight out on June 8. Which is technically true. I just have no intention of being on that flight.
I also gave Xoom.com a try. I thought that went smoothly, but just got an email saying they needed a copy of my bank statement and passport. I wrote back and said who the hell gets paper statements from the bank anymore? I did send them a screenshot of the account I want the money transferred from. Also sent the requested copy of my passport. Well, a picture of my passport anyway.
I next went to my old standby, Western Union. They seem to have a bad reputation with the expat community here for some reason. I’ve used them quite a bit in the past, but only for hundreds of dollars, not thousands. They are the only ones (so far at least) who haven’t given me any shit requests for more info yet. They did want to know my log-in and password for my bank account for “verification” purposes. That was disconcerting. I finally went ahead and gave it to them, and they verified whatever they needed to verify. Then I went in and changed my log-in ID and password. So I should be okay. I hope!
Anyway, if all or most of that money from the above outlets comes through, I can pay the rent. We shall see.
I came across this article today which links chewing gum while walking with increased calorie burn and hence more weight loss benefit. I figured why not give it a try? Especially after enjoying a french toast breakfast. Sometimes it’s good to be bad. Anyway, I’m walking, chewing, and vaping. How’s that for multi-tasking?
A good night of darts last night. My game is still frustratingly inconsistent, but I hit some big throws when I needed them most which is always satisfying.
Managed a first place finish with a relatively weak partner. That’s progress!
Bottom line though is I’m having fun at the game again and of course enjoying the social interactions that come with playing. That and the beer!
Good morning from paradise! I’m starting to feel solid again, if you get my meaning.
Apparently there was a scheduled power outage from 0600 to 0800 this morning. I didn’t get the word until everything went dark. Ah well, had a nice chat out on the patio with my neighbor Bill. Interesting Yank, been here three years now and professes to love it. I enjoyed hearing some of his yarns and I’m looking forward to making some of my own in the coming days, weeks, months and years.
Took off on my morning beach walk then popped into Treasure Island (which had power via a generator) for breakfast and a little flirting with the wait staff. My favorite, Joana, wasn’t working today. She lives in Olongapo City and I’d asked her to see if the fresh market there sold any fresh celery. She brought some into work with her yesterday. I was grateful for her efforts (the market in Barretto never has any) even if the celery itself isn’t up to American standards.
Skinny and limp though it may be, still tasty when dipped into a jar of creamy peanut butter…
I semi-teasingly asked Joana if she was looking for a boyfriend and she responded “I have enough boyfriends to last me ten years”. Love her attitude. Alas, it appears the attraction is a one-way street.
After a satisfying 3-egg omelette with ham, cheese, and mushrooms I recommenced my walk.
I walked by my soon to be future home…
….and then returned home via the beach walk…
Yesterday I played in the local dart league and then last night I played in the Wednesday night tournament. It was a lot of darts and a lot of beers kinda day. In fact, during the almost two weeks since my arrival I’ve played more darts than I have in the last two years. I’m starting to recapture the old passion for the game again. I’m slowly regaining some of my former prowess, but I remain way too inconsistent. I did throw my second ton-80 and racked up two second place finishes. Lost both times to older Filipinas who are both outstanding darters. I definitely need to be on my game to be competitive here.
I guess I’ve been drafted to play league with the Alley Hideaway Bar “Alley Cats”. Suits me fine. The team captain, Anabel, is a cutie. She calls me “Kuya” which means older brother. I asked her how do you say “boyfriend” in Tagalog. She told me, then laughed and said she’d just call me John. Struck out again, apparently.
Anyway, I’m feeling more and more at home and comfortable in my life here, solitary though it may be. There is still a void waiting to be filled, but I’m going to bide my time and patiently wait for nature to take its course. If she is worthy, she will find me.
Now I’m livin’
out here on the beach,
but those seagulls are
still out of reach.
The world is turnin’
I hope it don’t turn away
Played darts at Alley Cats. Threw my first 180 in the Philippines.
For those who don’t know, a ton-80 looks like this (three triple 20s) and is the highest possible score in the ’01 game
In recognition of this rare event for pub league players, the bar gave me a coupon for a free drink. Just what I needed, more beer. Right?
More importantly, me and my partner managed to go through the winner’s bracket undefeated and take 1st place money for our efforts.
Ain’t she sweet? I mean, isn’t she a good looking dart player….er, we played well with each other. Ah, fuck…never mind!
Now, I ain’t saying that throwing a ton-80 and winning a tourney is enough to make you a celebrity in this town, but…
Just sayin’….
Anyway, it was a great afternoon of competitive darts with a good group who placed a premium on keeping it fun. It was!
Here’s a funny story that illustrates just what a small town Barrio Barretto truly is.
That’s my friend John and his girlfriend Mango. We got together for awhile on Friday evening at the SOB dance contest.
During the course of the conversation, Mango mentioned she had a friend I should meet. Apparently, this gal is somewhere around 26 years old and works at a local gift shop. I knew the gift shop because I had stopped in there back in January to by some sunglasses for Gem. Anyway, to counter my protestations that she was a bit young for me (which in retrospect was probably rude, Mango is 21, John is 66), Mango noted that this gal usually dates men younger than her and is continually disappointed. In part because they don’t have a pot to piss in. Mango said her friend had mentioned wanting to find an older guy who could support her financially like John does her (basically a small allowance). Mango also told me that her friend was half Filipina, half American, but that she looks American.
Well, I was non-committal. I mean, I’m thinking the best way to meet a “good” someone would be through an introduction by mutual friends. But, I didn’t really retire to the Philippines to hook up with an American looking woman less than half my age. Anyway, the conversation moved on and that was that. Or so I thought.
As I mentioned above, I played darts today from 2 p.m. until nearly 6. And it should come as no surprise that I consumed a fair amount of beer during the course of the afternoon. With darts finished, I noted that my fitbit indicated I was still well shy of my 20,000 step goal. So I took a long and roundabout route back home. And wouldn’t you know, I came upon the gift shop where this young woman works. Did I mention I was a little drunk? Anyway, I figured what the hell? Why not just go in and have a look see. And so I did.
The first words out of her mouth were “what are you doing here?”. You see, the young woman in question turned out to be MJ, my dart partner that afternoon. And then it all started making sense. I mean, even though MJ speaks fluent Tagalog, she doesn’t look like a Filipina (although truthfully, she looks pretty damn fine!). I just didn’t make the connection between her and the woman Mango described.
So, I told her that I was friends with John and Mango and they thought I should meet you. I guess we both found that pretty funny. And then I remembered something else. When I bought the sunglasses back in January, she was the person who sold them to me. Why do I remember that mundane detail? Because later that night she came into the bar where I was drinking. It was one of those “U” shaped bars and she was sitting across from me. We made eye contact and she said, you look familiar. How do I know you? I had to think about it myself, but then remembered I had seen her that afternoon in the store.
Anyway, it was another reminder of the joys of small town living. Or something.
Forty years ago my son Kevin Lee began his life’s journey.
Happy Birthday son.
On today’s walk (26,000+ steps) I encountered this group of protesters with a rather unusual demand:
We’ll get right on that!
And today’s Facebook memories were particularly sad. Four years ago I was in Augusta, Georgia playing in a dart tournament.
Also there was my friend Bridget Werner….
And my buddy James Stoy.
Little did I know that they would both be dead within two years. You’ve got to live for the day because the days do run out without warning.
Speaking of darts, I’ve been playing in the IDK Saturday tourneys again. Took a first place last night.
My game is crap, I’m not anywhere near the player I used to be. Luckily, no one here is of the “A” division caliber I competed with in Seoul. Trying to get motivated to work at improving so I can kick some ass in the Subic dart league.
A pretty laid back day all in all. That’s actually pretty huge, because it demonstrates that I’m feeling very comfortable here. To the extent I questioned my ability to adapt to this environment and successfully establish a permanent life in the PI, I’m reassured it’s doable.
I’m liking my routine of an early breakfast followed by a beach walk.
This place is being built right on the beach. Probably not intended for someone of my modest means, but…
Later we walked into Baretto and had us some pampering…
Those feet aren’t gonna scrape themselves you know…
A tasty Monte Cristo sandwich for lunch at Arizona Resort. And yes, I’ve totally ditched low carb for the duration of this trip.
I picked up the darts for the first time this year and threw in a nice little tourney at Alley Cats bar.
I drew Ray, a solid darter for my doubles partner. A good turnout and some really good players, especially among the Filipinas.
In fact, we went mano a mano against two outstanding ladies in the finals. Took all we had to eventually prevail and take home first place money. Yeah, I was a little excited.
Got invited to play another tourney tonight, and I agreed to help out in league play on Friday. And another tourney Saturday. Looks like I’m coming out of retirement!
A fantastic finish to the dart league season with a hard fought victory over the guys and gal from Dillinger’s. Shenanigans came from behind and seized the victory in the team game. It was a great match against an outstanding team. Proud of my teammates because they had to overcome some adversity; one of our top guns was absent and I may as well have not been there either. Can’t remember the last time I threw such shitty darts.
What the Bulls? Seoul International Dart League “B” Division Champions!
We had dedicated our season to our former team Captain, Bridget Werner. She was our “ghost player” all season and I know she would have been thrilled seeing WTB take the regular season and playoff crowns.
Last night was also my swan song for a 10+ year career of darting in SIDL. As I’ve alluded to in previous posts, I’m winding down my Korea life bit by bit. And truthfully, I’ve just lost my passion for the game it seems. Time to move on to something else I suppose.
In unrelated news, I purchased this fancy-dancy throw blanket:
Ain’t she a beaut? It’s a memory from my working life here in Korea that I’ll be able to pack up and move with me where ever I wind up in the world. And hopefully I’ll be leaving all the bad memories behind.
Also renewed my villa lease yesterday, which may seem odd given that I feel like I have one foot out the door already. Well, gotta keep a roof over that other foot. Plus, I committed to seeing Eighth Army through the move to Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek. That’s supposed to happen in June/July. My current employment appointment expires in September. So, then or shortly thereafter you can color me gone.
It’s time. My heart can’t take another beat down from Korean women.
I’ve paid my dues Time after time. I’ve done my sentence But committed no crime. And bad mistakes ‒ I’ve made a few. I’ve had my share of sand kicked in my face But I’ve come through.
(And I need just go on and on, and on, and on)
We are the champions, my friends, And we’ll keep on fighting ’til the end. We are the champions. We are the champions. No time for losers ‘Cause we are the champions of the world.
Four weeks in and still coughing like a motherfucker. But only in the wee dark hours of the morning. Back to the lovely Dr. Kim, Sun Hee for a follow-up. I was surprised her skirt was even shorter this week than last, and she was surprised the antibiotics hadn’t solved my issues. She listened to my heavy breathing and declared that my lungs sound clear. She prescribed some cough medicine and something to open up my bronchial passages and invited me back to see her again in five days. Hopefully I’ll get a better offer before then.
Here’s hoping the fix is in!
Meanwhile, my dart game has been as sick as I am…
First time I’ve ever been skunked in singles league play…
The dart news isn’t all bad though…
My Monday night team, What the Bulls?, took the semi-finals match 14-3 and will face off Monday night against Dillinger’s for the B Division Championship.
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. At least at the DHRM building…
The staff wanted a Christmas tree (or in government parlance, a Holiday tree) and apparently my Bah Humbug! response did not translate…
…sometimes you just gotta roll with the flow, right?
The combination of being sick and the meds to fight being sick along with my nighttime coughing fits depriving me of sleep has left me feeling exhausted and lethargic. In addition to lacking the energy to blog, I’ve pretty much not walked for well over a week. To avoid depression I’ve also refrained from stepping onto the scale. I hope to get back into my routine soon. Maybe even tomorrow if these new meds allow for a night of uninterrupted slumber. We’ll see.
I’ll close with a passage from Stephen King which I rather like (I like it so much that I’ve committed it to memory and have likely posted it here before. It’s worth repeating.
“The most important things are the hardest to say. They are the things you get ashamed of, because words diminish them — words shrink things that seemed limitless when they were in your head to no more than living size when they’re brought out. But it’s more than that, isn’t it? The most important things lie too close to wherever your secret heart is buried, like landmarks to a treasure your enemies would love to steal away. And you may make revelations that cost you dearly only to have people look at you in a funny way, not understanding what you’ve said at all, or why you thought it was so important that you almost cried while you were saying it. That’s the worst, I think. When the secret stays locked within not for want of a teller but for want of an understanding ear.”
