Sounds like a good recipe. I should try it someday.
Another Hash Monday is in the books. The short version of the trail proved to be almost a walk in the park, although the uphill portions are more difficult than they used to be. We started and finished at the 13 Resort (pronounced one-three), which has some of the nicest bay views around. Best of all, I lived to post these photos:
Leech My Nuggets did his usual fine job laying the trail. The purple line was his short version, the orange line was the wimp way.And away we go.On the streets of a nice subdivision.Then into the wild.It was nice having Pubic Head on trail with us again.These Subic Hillbillies were the day’s first cookie recipients.Then we were back on the streets of a local neighborhood.That’s the way it is sometimes.Marching onward.The highway portion of our journey.Years ago, Eagles Bar was a Hash On-Home venue. That was before my time here, but from what I’ve heard, I’m sorry I missed it.Arriving at yesterday’s On-Home.That view from 13.The Hash Gash table.Me and her.Pubic Head and I enjoying the view.Circle up!Meanwhile, this was happening.Going down.Over and out.The after-Hash gathering at It Doesn’t Matter.Being serenaded by some Christmas carolers.
And shortly thereafter, we made our way home so I could venture into the land of dreams.
I’ve marched on to March 2016 in the LTG archives, and in this pictorial post, I share the sights I saw on the backstreets of Seoul. I had one more year in Seoul, then a year in Pyeongtaek, before I said goodbye to my Korea life. It’s gone now, but never forgotten.
I saw this graphic on the size of life over at the Althouse blog. I thought it was worth the look; perhaps you will enjoy it too.
For today’s YouTube video, let’s go back to 1977 and watch a commercial for the first IBM portable computer. I didn’t buy my first home computer until the mid-90s. Now, I can’t imagine life without one. Blogging sure would be a bitch on a typewriter.
And as usual, the joke’s on me.
I guess they didn’t see that one coming. Don’t trust the words; be on the lookout for what’s to come.Who/Me?Nothing like reading between the lines…
Something new for me on the horizon today: my first time attending The Battle of the Bars. I’m assuming it will be SOB-like, but I’m told it’s a little spicier. Five bars are competing: Thumbstar, Queen Victoria, Red Bar, Gentlemen’s Club, and Alaska Club. I’ll tell you all about it tomorrow.
I missed the last two runs with my home kennel, so it was good to be back with the Subic Bay Hash group. I didn’t do much of the actual trail as I wasn’t feeling up to a climb to the top of the Kalaklan Ridge. When I saw the route the Hares laid to get there, I knew I had made the right call. Even some of the die-hards were bitching about how challenging the trail was. Knowing your limits is about more than beer intake, and I learned long ago that when Vienna Sausage is the Hare, I’m going my own way.
The gathering of Hashers at the edge of town.Vienna Sausage provides last-minute guidance before starting the trail.And we are On-On!The up I opted out of.I’d gone that way before and added to my “never again” list.Some other like-minded Hashers chose to follow my lead.We met up with Pubic Head along the way.Evidence that we did some of the flat part of the official Hash trail.The Hare’s trail.My trail was longer (6K) and flatter.The On-Home venue this week was Cyclone Bar.Circle up!It’s nice on ice!
A visit to It Doesn’t Matter after the Hash, then back to the comfort of home sweet home. And that’s how I rolled through another day.
It’s Christmas Day in the 2015 LTG archives. I wrote about all the places I had lived in my life up to that point, including the most recent, moving out of Jee Yeun’s place into my own apartment. And I was alone again, naturally. It’s been almost ten years now, and it still hurts.
I came across today’s YouTube video on a forum I follow. I’d never heard of this comedian before, but since it was less than five minutes long, I gave his stand-up schtick a watch. Maybe you’ll enjoy it.
As long as we are doing “humor,” I’ll share these:
Ashes to ashes, lead to lead…Sorry if I posted a version of this previously. It’s still funny, though.Show me the DNA…
Another post, another day. Time to get on with it.
Back in Barretto to file this report on the events at yesterday’s Haggis Hash Bash in Pozorruio. To end any suspense, I maintained control over my drunk persona throughout a very long day. The best evidence of my success is that I made it up the stairs to my hotel room without assistance. I still drank more than I usually would over the course of the day, but this time I paced myself, stuck mostly to Zero low-alcohol beer, with no more than two an hour, and resisted taking any offered shots of the hard stuff. Or maybe I just got lucky.
Okay, let’s get to the Hash. There were two trail options: the long at 8 kilometers, and the shorter 7-kilometer version. Seeing as how I’m an older fucker with sore legs, and I had a hangover, I went with the 7K route.
And we are On-On!Down the road……and into the fields.A bushy goat on a rope.Over a squishy suspension bridge that left me feeling a little seasick at the end.That’s the bridge I’m talking about.All the other Subic girls took the long trail, but Swan stuck with me.The flatness of Pozorrubio would probably get boring after a while, but since I was seeing everything for the first time, I enjoyed the views.Passed through lots of farm land.A tree I fancied.Flowers by the riverside were worthy of a photo.We ain’t fast, so near the end of the trail we were bringing up the rear.A horny cow.I know what to do when I come to a fork in the road, but how do you deal with a fork in a post?There was something about this tree I liked.The route we walked.
Back on the farm, I changed into my new Haggis Hash shirt.
Our host was going for the Scottish school uniform look. For all I know, he nailed it.
Given my circumstances from the night before, I hadn’t had anything to eat. Watching the lunch being prepared (and smelling the burgers on the grill) only exacerbated my hunger.
Grillin’.Coleslaw.Diced wieners waiting for some ketchup.Putting it all together.Burgers wrapped and ready to eat.Hungry Hashers waiting for their turn.
The burgers and sides were quite delicious. I had my first beer of the day for dessert.
One of the Haggis traditions is playing various games and competitive events. We were divided into four teams and assigned a captain. A lot of the contests were physical (carrying someone, sack races, and the like), and my tired body wasn’t up for that. I told the captain I would cheerlead from the shade while I enjoyed some slow beer drinking.
Swan did a couple of events, including walking the plank.
They finished third. Swan says she is still sore.
I also videoed one minute of the Scottish dance competition:
We didn’t win that either.
Near the end of the contests, I got shamed into taking one for the team. For some reason, someone thought I was a natural for the beer-drinking event. What the hell, someone’s got to do it.
We took turns, and I was in the third position.Once you’ve downed your beer, you hold the emptybottle over your head, and the next player begins drinking. We didn’t win this event either.
Then it was time to circle up.
Refreshments for the Hashers.The sun calling it a day.Hashers Circled up!We weren’t in Germany, but we had a nice bonfire anyway.
I was one of the Scots invited into the Circle. I’ve never been to Scotland, but our Scottish host recognized that McCrarey is a Scottish name.
After the Circle, we moved back into the meeting area for dinner.
Our meal was introduced with the sweet sound of bagpipes.A small sampling of haggis with potato sides was served as an appetizer. Like a good Scot, I ate all of mine, even though it is not my favorite dish.The dining hall full of hungry Hashers.
One of our group members wasn’t feeling well, so our host provided a van to transport us back to the hotel after our meal.
The rest of us enjoyed some liquid refreshments at our hotel.
My day started at 9 a.m., and I was not back in my room until a little after 10 p.m. That’s a long day and a late night for me. But, much better than my Friday night, most of which I don’t remember. Scott sent me this photo as a reminder:
And now that I’m home again, we’ll get back to my more sane routines. I wired some money for the Hideaway feeding, as I wasn’t feeling up for that. I’m going to take Swan to John’s place for her birria tacos, and we’ll see how it goes from there.
A Jollibee Sunday at Hideaway.
On to December 2015 in the LTG archives. In this post, I share the continuing adventure of my efforts to get back to Korea via American Airlines. I got to meet someone semi-famous, Brooke Mueller, and travel in business class seats for the first time.
For today’s YouTube video, let’s check in with the Filipina Pea, who shares her wisdom on the reasons so many folks moving here fail to enjoy the life they imagined. I guess I got lucky, although there were some speed bumps along the way.
Humor time:
I’d rather be commatose…Hmm, I’m retired, but I still hear voices saying things like, “One more beer won’t hurt you.”Hiking pays! Who knew?
That’s all for now—time to get back to living in the moment.
Alright, it is Saturday morning, and I’ve got a big Hash day ahead of me. Before I go, let me dash off a quick post about yesterday’s Hash event. The Haggis is a Scottish thing, and my ancestral roots are in Scotland. But I was drinking like an Irishman last night, and from what I’m told, it didn’t end well. Oh well, live and learn. Or not.
Where I be and how I got here.A view from the road.Over the river.Our little room.Looking down at the pool from our room.Words of wisdom on the bathroom wall.A 200 peso trike ride to the CIJ Farm, the venue for this weekend’s Haggis Hash.And so it begins.Our Haggis host and skul principal, Honeydew.This year’s theme. Not to be an arse about it, but we don’t need no education.No matter how you spell it, we McCrareys are rooted in Scotland.Each participating Hash kennel was asked to designate a Queen. Subic’s choice was Bite My Titties.The Queen on her throne.And we are On-On!The best part of Hashing out of town is that all the trails are new.Swan is such a slowpoke sometimes.Pozorrubio is mostly flat and I like that.Through the fields we go. But I don’t think I was laughing all the way.An unfamiliar Hash mark…I wonder what it means?Clouds on the mountains.Gathering for the Circle at the trail’s end down on the farm.A short and sweet trail with TWO drink stops along the way.An end-of-trail snack.Snack innards.After the circle, we returned to the farm headquarters for dinner and drinks. Lots of drinks.
And then we caught the van for transport back to our hotel. Except we had it drop us off at a local bar just down the road from our lodging.
More drinking ensued, and things were getting a little dark in my addled brain.There was live music……and Swan joined the band.
I don’t remember anything after that. Swan told me this morning that I came back from the CR and my pants were wet with pee. We took a trike back to the hotel, and I fell down getting out. Two of the hotel staff had to help me up the stairs to the third floor. And then I woke up in bed this morning.
The early morning view from my hotel room.That full moon must have followed me here.
And that’s where things stand at the moment. Today’s Hash events start at 10 a.m. with a hike, then continue into the night as we dine on haggis, sit around a bonfire, and, of course, imbibe beverages, including Scottish whiskey. I pride myself on maintaining control when I drink, and yesterday was a failure in that regard. It is rare that I get falling-down drunk, and it is an embarrassment when I do. Hopefully, I learned my lesson about over-indulgence yesterday. I’ll let you know tomorrow how that works out today.
A photo of my workstation where this post was created.
I survived the Hash trail yesterday—at least the part of it I did. But to my credit, I did the hard part. My hill-climbing stamina has been fading rapidly, and I was somewhat worried about doing what I knew would be a challenging ascent. I thought of excuses to avoid the trail, but in the end, I decided I’m not ready to be a quitter. I’ll get up that hill or die trying, I told myself. I hadn’t gone far when I questioned that decision, because the long climb was an ass-kicker. Still, I hadn’t been out this way for a long enough time that it felt fresh and new. And because of that, I was able to overcome the urge to bail out and shortcut back down since I wasn’t sure which way to go. I plodded onward, but knowing there was a second climb in my future, I decided I had done my duty with the first half of the hike, and once we descended to Rizal Extension, I opted to do a road walk back to the On-Home at Bella Monte. The length of my version was about the same as the Hare’s trail (around 6K), but I avoided another hill. That’s my story in words; here are the photos:
That’s the Hare, Leech My Nuggets, in yellow.A gathering of Hashers awaiting the 2 pm start time.Me and my group said, “Fuck that,” and started a few minutes early. The rest of the Hashers passed me before I was even halfway up the hill.We started with a stroll up Banaba Street. It is steeper than it appears in this photo.And then we left the pavement behind and the real “fun” began.Don’t be fooled. I didn’t take pictures during the steepest parts.The struggle continues.On up!The view from here.I thought I’d found a nice urinal until someone advised it was a water well.One of the three barbed-wire fences we had to overcome.A tree that caught my eye.Another shortcutter who followed my lead for a downhill/flat street walk route.Rollin’ On-Home.Our On-Home venue for the second week in a row.The Hare’s trail is in green, and my “shortcut”is in red.Hanging out before the Circle.Chairs? We don’t need no stinkin’ chairs…On the ice.The old folks zone.
And that’s the story of this week’s Hash. I won’t be attending another Subic Hash until December. I’ve got some travel plans coming up.
From the August 2015 LTG archives is the post I made about my 60th birthday. And here I am having made it to 70. And now, let’s see if I can live to write the 80th-birthday post.
Today’s YouTube video discusses the realities of life for the majority of Filipinos. Yes, it is not paradise for most. This video is focused on Manila, but I see similar poverty on my walkabouts. It’s sad to view the hardships so many endure. Still, I’ve never ceased to be impressed by the locals’ resilience and ability to maintain a positive attitude and a friendly nature.
Let me leave you with a smile or two:
Leave it to the government.I think I see what your problem is now, fella.The period before you complete your sentence.
And there you have it. Changing things up some today by attending the weekly RSL meeting. It starts at 2:00, which isn’t in keeping with my kind of schedule, but there is a raffle drawing worth 99,000 pesos, so I’m making an exception with the hope of getting lucky. And the proceeds go to the RSL’s charity projects, so it is good to support that effort. Beer will be served, so everyone is a winner.
It rained off and on all night, but now at last the storm has passed, and life is returning to normal. The electricity that powers the essential tools that fill the hours has been restored, allowing me to check out of the crap Anbon Hotel and return to the luxury living of Alta Vista. It is good to be home!
The Hashers who braved the weather met up at the VFW. The Hare advised, “Trail? We don’t need no stinkin’ trail.”
Yesterday’s Hash was, as I expected, not much of a Hash. There was no marked trail to follow, so you could walk where you pleased or else follow the leader on a bar crawl. Decisions, decisions. I started out with the group that went with the Hare’s bar trek, but wound up on my own in the end. The first bar visited was Dynamite Dick’s, which is a nice enough place but a small venue. And yesterday it was pretty much full even before the Hashers arrived. I prefer sitting outside, but that option wasn’t available. I looked inside and didn’t see anywhere to sit at the bar either. I asked another Hasher where the next stop would be, and he told me it would be Dempsey’s. Okay, that’s down the highway by John’s place, but what’s a Hash without a hike? I was the first and only customer when I got there. I had two beers waiting in an empty bar (the bartender was friendly enough to laugh at my jokes) and decided to head out on my own. Yeah, I shortcut the bar crawl. At least I’m consistent!
Sloppy Joe’s was right up the street from the Hash On-Home venue at the Bella Monte Hotel. I plopped my ass down where I normally sit, ordered up a beer, and began my wait until 3:30, when the Hash beer at the On-Home becomes available. And since I was drinking earlier than I usually do, I decided prudence dictates that I should put some food in my belly (I’d skipped lunch after the big Arizona breakfast I’d consumed). So, I enjoyed a pulled pork sandwich with my beer, then made my way to Bella Monte, bringing my Hash trail to an end.
This guy at Bella Monte kept staring at me. No, I didn’t let him ride me.
Honestly speaking, the Hash Circle is my least favorite part of the Hash, but the beer is cold and good. When the circle was done, I made my way to IDM for the usual after-Hash revelry. My hotel room was waiting for me right across the street, but I was hoping that I wouldn’t be needing it last night. I sent messages to the folks I know living in Alta Vista asking if the power had been restored, but it hadn’t by the time I ran out of gas. I stayed at IDM until nine, hoping for good news, and I had to smile when several people commented, “What are you doing here so late?” Heh, I’m famous for being a lightweight.
Resigned to having to spend another night in a crappy hotel room, I went to the small grocery store on the corner to pick up something sweet for my bedtime treat.
The name of this ice cream gave me a laugh.
“Boom boom” is Filipino slang for sexual intercourse. You can look it up. Well, I’ll save you the trouble, here’s the definition from the Urban Dictionary:
The term “boom boom” is most often associated with south east asian countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, or Laos and is used to describe the act of intercourse, usually that which is purchased by males frequenting brothels and whorehouses in those locations. The term is thought to have been created by prostitutes possessing limited english language ability; ie- it is far easier for a non english speaking Thai prostitute to say “You go boom boom”? than it is for her to say “Would you like to go make completely unemotional and detached love with me”?
Swan thought the name was funny too, and suggested I buy some ice cream for the girls at IDM. So, as we walked back to our hotel room, I stopped in front of IDM and asked, “Does anyone here want Boom Boom? They gave me a funny look, especially because Swan was standing right next to me. Then I pulled an ice cream out of my bag, and they got the joke.
Look at those smiling faces. Filipinas sure do love some Boom Boom!
Woke up this morning to the news that the power was back on in Alta Vista, so we packed our shit and headed for home.
The room at the Anbon Hotel we hope never to need again.Let’s just say it needs a little work.
Anyway, the storm is gone and I’m still here, so I’d count that as a win.
Facebook and YouTube are full of this kind of AI bullshit about the typhoon. It’s both sad and scary to see this and think people are that gullible.The future of the human race doesn’t look bright.
Today is Veterans Day, and I’d be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to honor those who served in the military.
Thank you for your service!
It’s April 2015 in the LTG archives. In this post, I share the story of an afternoon spent with two distinguished authors in Itaewon. One of them still visits my blog, but I’ve lost touch with Young Chun. His book, The Accidental Citizen-Soldier, is a great story about an American citizen getting drafted into the Korean Army. And he lived to not only tell about it, but to sign my copy of the book!
Give it a read.
Today’s YouTube video touches on some of the things I discovered during my first visit to the Philippines that made me want to live here. Many Filipinos may be poor, but they are also happy, generous, and welcoming. I’m sorry for the AI renderings, but the message is brief and legitimate. I’m living rich in a poor country and don’t tend to spend quality time with the Filipinos I encounter, but that’s all on me. I’ve often thought on my walkabouts that if I were hiking through an American slum, I might not make it out alive. Here, I’m greeted with friendly smiles.
Let me leave you with a smile or two:
I had a Scottish friend in Korea who was teaching English. I could only understand about half of what he said.What a crock!Welcome to my world, and I don’t even need to be on the toilet.
I’ll tell you what, I’d rather experience the same shit every day than no shit at all. And I’ve got enough variety to keep it interesting most of the time. At least for me.
Yesterday’s Hash trail was nothing special, but I’ve only got myself to blame for that. I opted not to follow the route the Hare prepared and set about on my course. Coincidentally, the Hare’s trail did intersect with mine for a kilometer or two, then headed back up into the hills. My path started with the My Bitch trail and then came down into San Isidro for a flat street walk to the On-Home at Smokes and Bottles in Calapacuan. I did manage to log 7K on my journey, and that ain’t bad for a fat old guy. Pubic Head (Scott) was going to a street walk to Smokes and Bottles from his house, but he decided to join me on my trail instead. It was good to be Hashing together again!
As we set out, I couldn’t help but notice that the new SBH3 shirt Swan was wearing had some ambiguity about it. I imagined encountering someone reading the Hare’s name (Anal Receptive) and taking it as an invitation to poke that ass.Into the tall thatch grass that is part of the Bitch experience.Swan posing for my Easter Mountain shot.Waiting at Mountain Mama Onelia’s place for Pubic Head and his contingent to arrive.The gang’s all here.That cabin in the woods I fancy.Making it just under the wire.The view from here.That really gets my goat.Well, lookee there, we are On-On the official Hash trail.The path was going our way, so we took it.Crossing Bridge #3. Not long thereafter, the Hare’s trail went one way and we took another.But our paths reconvened near the On-Home venue. The Hare (Almoranus) speaks German, and I *think* “saufn oida) roughly translates to “beer near.”On-Home at Smokes and Bottles, one of my favorite Hash venues.Some Hash Gash.That’s the Hare, Almoranus, on the right.The trail I mostly didn’t do……and the one I did.
After-Hash revelry at It Doesn’t Matter, then back to the house for a good night’s sleep before waking up thankful to still be amongst the living.
It’s still January 2015 in the LTG archives. Now, I personally have a very low tolerance for people who feel the need to act out and become a drama queen. Except when I are one. Live and learn.
Today’s YouTube video is also from the LTG archives. It was funny to see it again.
Let’s roll on into these:
Why not both?Man, you can say that again.What a stand-up guy.
Another day, another post. Let’s see what happens next.
As Hash runs go, yesterday was not really to my liking. The trail markings were inconsistent, resulting in some wrong turns. The trail itself was muddy and slippery in places, especially with the numerous ups and downs. When I’d had enough, I bailed and did a street walk back to the On-Home venue, the new Cyclone Bar.
The Hashers gathered at the Alta Vista clubhouse for the start of the trail.Ant then we were On-On!The stragglers.And now we have the obligatory Easter Mountain shot taken care of.Off the pavement.And up the first hill.The view from here.And one of that bay they call Subic.Country living.Swan going down.Steppin’ on down.Hanging out at the On-Home.Then, making our way to the after-Hash gathering at It Doesn’t Matter.The Hare’s trail in red and my black alteration.
You have to take the good with the bad, and I’m just glad that I can still participate, even when I do it my way.
It’s December 2014 in the LTG archives now. I’ve accepted a job offer in Korea, rented out my Carolina house, and made the long journey back to The Land of the Morning Calm. I didn’t know then that my American life had come to its conclusion.
Today’s YouTube video is from a vlogger named George, one of the few I’ve actually met in person, and I occasionally see around town. He doesn’t post as frequently as he used to, and truth be told, I was never a consistent viewer. I noticed this one today because he mentions that life in Subic has become a rut for him. I’ve had similar feelings, and like him, I try to alleviate the “same-old, same-old” routine with intermittent travel. He lives on SBMA, which I would find more boring than Barretto. It is what it is, and at this stage of my life, I’m just going to ride it out.
Humor time:
Who’s the lucky one?That’s spineless.Why make it so hard on him?
It is always good to be back home, and I reckon that’s a pretty strong indicator that I’m generally happy with my Barretto life. La Union is nice, and I’ve always thought of it as a potential alternative should I ever feel the need to move on. This is the third year in a row I’ve attended the LUH3 Anniversary Hash run, and it’s still an enjoyable change of scenery. The three-plus-hour drive getting there ain’t much fun though.
Speaking of which, when you are unlicensed and carless, this is one way to get around:
Rent a vehicle for the weekend from one of Swan’s friends: 3600 pesos
Fuel for the vehicle: 3000 pesos
Expressway tolls: 1900 pesos
Payment for driver: 5000 pesos
Lodging for driver: 1900 pesos
Food money for driver: 1000 pesos
Total for getting there and back again: 16,400 pesos($280)
That’s the way I roll these days.
We once again enjoyed our room at the Go Resort in Bauang. Clean and comfortable, complimentary breakfast, and friendly staff. My only complaint is that the Wi-Fi sucks.
Here are some photos from yesterday:
The Go Resort is on the ocean, but there ain’t no beach.The open-air dining/bar area is very much to my liking.A nice pool that I’ve never used.My breakfast companions.
Then it was time to hit the highway.
An impressive tree in downtown Agoo.Enjoying the cloudy horizon as we cruised down the expressway.The offramp for the immaculate city of Concepcion.A couple of the Subic Hashers hitched a ride home with us.I looked up at the sky and shouted, “Are you threatening me?”Something about that hump of a mountain always catches my eye.
After our return home, we joined our next-door neighbors, Jeff and Davina, along with the other side neighbors, Martin and Joss, for a home-cooked meal.
The Bryce Street squad.Davina’s latest creation is something I’d never had before, what she called a “Spanish-chicken-and-vegetable-paella.” It was tasty indeed.
And yes, it was good to be imbibing San Mig Zero once again. In moderation, of course.
Lots more adventures on the horizon: a day on the river in Botolon on November 8, a week in Surigao at the end of November, the Haggis Hash in Pozorubio in December, two weeks in Vietnam to kick off the new year, and a Valentine’s Hash in Baguio come February. Yeah, I’ll work on filling in some of those gaps. Life is good, live it while you’ve got it!
I’ve reached the end of November 2014 in the LTG archives. I was depressed back then, and re-reading those old posts was depressing. My wife, the woman I loved, was not going to rejoin me in the USA, so I was working diligently to find a job in Korea to facilitate my returning home to her. And I finally got a job offer as a contractor, pending USFK approval. I had a roommate move in to my house in anticipation of him becoming the renter when the job came through. So, the month ended on a relatively high note.
In my mind I’m going to South Korea, Riding on the Blue Line, Having galbi with some rice wine And it seems just like a friend of mine That I’ve left behind Yes, I’m going to South Korea in my mind.
Jee Yeun she’s my smiling sun, Want to hike with her and watch it shine, Watch her climbing Bukhansan. The lonely fear’s disappearing now, I’m flying, ain’t I? I’m going to South Korea in my mind.
There ain’t no doubt in no ones mind That Seoul’s the finest town around, The cars and the bars it all suits me fine. And hey, babe, we’ll be together, I’m trying, ain’t I? I’m going to South Korea in my mind.
Dark and lonely late tonight, I think I might have heard Incheon calling. Want to catch that flight and drink some Hite. And signs that might be omens Say I’m going, going I’m gone to South Korea in my mind.
I’ve done my best to make this work But I’ve got to cross that ocean soon And it seems like I’ve been far away forever, You must forgive me If I’m up and gone to South Korea in my mind.
Needless to say, things weren’t destined to turn out the way I had hoped.
The Filipina Pea brings us the news from the Philippines in today’s YouTube video. Jeepney’s disappearing? I’ll believe it when I see it. They are also building a mass transit rail line from Manila to Angeles. Drove by the construction near Clark on my weekend travels and noted no progress had been made whatsoever in the last year. As I say about the alleged Barretto bypass highway, work may be ongoing, but no one seems to be in a hurry. I’m not going to live forever, you know.
Let’s try these on for size:
That’s one way to achieve the “do-over” dream.What a way to go!You get your money for nothing and your chicks for free.
Another Hash Monday is here; let’s see if I survive it.
And here is that James Taylor song I bastardized. At least I was in Carolina when I stole it.
135 kilometers and three and a half hours, door-to-door.
Arrived safely in the lovely town of Bauang in La Union after a long drive. Today’s Hash starts at 10, so I’ve got to dash out a quick update before heading out. Regular posting will resume tomorrow.
Some scenes from along the road:
The old Spanish gate on SBMA.Rolling down the expressway.Mount Arayat, an extinct volcano in Pampanga.On the MacArthur highway in the province of La Union.Entering Bauang.Checking into our room at the Go Resort. We wound up in the same room we had last year.
The Hash festivities began with a gathering at the Blue Cat bar, one of my favorite venues in Bauang.
The view from Blue Cat.The view inside Blue Cat.My table at Blue CatHash Gash on the beach.
Sunset on the ocean is a different look than the ones I see back home.
The clouds added some color.I like it!Thanks for the show!
At the conclusion of the Blue Cat Hash gathering, the male Hashers were invited to gather at the only girly bar in town, Footloose.
Who am I to say no to such an invite?I had to be discreet with my photography, but there was a lot more to see later in the performance, if you get my meaning.
So, no one has Zero beer in Bauang, and a long night of drinking SML left me somewhat out of sorts. It’s all a little fuzzy after that, but I did wake up in my bed this morning, so I guess things ended well, even if I don’t recall how I got there.
We’ll leave it at that for now. Gotta run, well walk, to the Hash meet-up.
The world leader in litter. From what I’ve seen, it is a nationwide effort.
I’m off to Bauang, La Union, this morning for a Hashy weekend. I’ll dash off a quick post before I go.
I had the bright idea to trike out to Naugsol yesterday morning for a hike with Swan. It didn’t go as planned because once we were on the scene, neither of us wanted to fuck around with wading across the river. So, we did a 4K street walk instead. We brought along lots of candy bags, but soon realized that with school in session, we wouldn’t be seeing many youngins.
A bridge that was too dicey to cross. I’ve gone across it in the past, but wasn’t feeling so brave yesterday.A candy delivery for a kidtaking a river bath.The kids at this school came out for some treats. And the teacher didn’t complain about tooth decay.That mountain named after Easter.Twin peaks are the breast!It wasn’t much, but what there was wasn’t bad.
The visit to the pulmonologist went well. She listened to me breathe and heard no obstructions. My blood oxygen level was within the normal range. She gave me something that dissolves in water to drink before bedtime, which might help me clear the phlegm I hock up with some regularity. Otherwise, it doesn’t look like a lack of lung capacity will lead to my demise. We’ll see if I survive tomorrow’s Hash.
After the doctor visit, I got a haircut, then we had dinner at Jewel Cafe.
I did the filet mignon, as usual. A little bigger this time.
Then we finished our evening at Green Room. I sponsored a match (100 pesos to the winner, 50 to the loser) between a couple of the girls and enjoyed watching the action. Dropped some coin on lady drinks as is my custom, then we headed on home to rest up for our trip today.
Back to October 2014 in the LTG archives. It’s funny to be reminded of things you thought were important at the time, but have no recollection of until you read about them again. That happens more frequently the older I get. Anyway, this post recounts me losing it over some darts drama.
Here’s a bonus entry from the archives you may find funny: Are you coming?
Fifteen years ago, I shared this account of a bad morning I experienced:
Death to Aria! I was attacked in my sleep last night. The battle raged from 0200 to 0300. I was unable to digest why it was happening and was in danger of being completely liquefied. I retreated from the bedroom and eventually purged the intruder. When I awoke a few hours later, I found myself on more solid ground. I’m just glad the attack didn’t occur on the subway, or I would have been in deep doo-doo.
And twelve years ago, I posted this music video to my Facebook page:
Today’s YouTube video is about a vlogger’s bad week in Angeles City. It is good to keep things in perspective. My bad days aren’t this bad.
And now to bring things to a close:
If you say so.You got me goin’ in circles…The old dirt road.
Almost time to hit the highway. I’ll check in from up north in the morning.
Another Subic Bay Hash anniversary is in the books. By all accounts, it was a good one. And everyone made it back alive, which given the difficulty of the trails is never a given. I wisely took the wimp route and did the short five kilometer trail. It had two moderate climbs, but damn, they kicked my ass. Had I stuck with my original plan to do the 7K route with a steep climb up Kalaklan, I may not have been here today to tell you about it. I think I might have to embrace the fact that I am indeed an elderly man and take joy and pride in my ability to still get out and about in the hills. I just need to recognize my limits.
The three trail options: insane, crazy, or hard.The Hares were still busy marking trail, so they asked me to do the pre-hike guidance for my fellow short trail walkers.And off we go!There were quite a few like-minded Hashers who opted for the shorter trail.This part of the first climb was especially, um, tiring.Credit where credit is due, the trail the Hares laid was through some new terrain for me, which isn’t easy to do after all these years of Hashing.Even the downs had their challenging moments.Up we go again.What goes up, must come down.A couple of virgin Hashers joined in the fun. That’s the owner of John’s place and her daughter.Getting passed by one of the folks who did the medium trail, Egghead from the Corona Hash in Angeles. In our defense, they did start an hour earlier than us.And we took a moment now and then to hand out some sweets along the way.On Home at Bella Monte.
We had ninety-nine Hashers in attendance for the anniversary run (we are normally in the thirties). Hashers from Angeles City, Puerto Galera, and Manila joined in the fun.
Thanks for another year of Hashing with the SBH3!The Hash Gash are pretty as a picture.Hanging out before the Circle.Time to circle up!The old farts taking a chair.It’s nice on ice!Eh, not so much.So many in attendance yesterday, we needed TWO blocks of ice.A couple of posers.
Oh, did you notice my new Hash shirt?
Another year, another anniversary shirt.
We did the after-Hash hangout at It Doesn’t Matter, then made it home happy to be alive.
It’s September 2014 in the LTG archives. In this short post, I talk about heading back to the USA from Korea as part of our regular “six months there, six months here” rotation. I casually mention that my wife was not returning with me because she needed to take care of her mother. She was supposed to join me in a couple of weeks. I didn’t know then that she would never return.
I came across this photo as I slogged around the internet this morning:
Sedona, Arizona. One of my favorite places. I lived an hour or so south of there in Prescott from 1978-1983. The drive on US Highway 89A to and from Sedona was amazing. What a life this has been.
Another new to me vlogger for today’s YouTube video. I’ll always remember the two things that stood out for me during my first visit to the Philippines: the most extreme poverty I’d ever witnessed and the kindness of the Filipino people. This Canuck had a similar experience.
Let’s get this stuff out of the way:
What color is the pot? Asked the kettle.I’ll have a taste of that!Man, I hate when that happens.
It’s been a good Tuesday so far, with more to come. Down the road, I’ll be spending this coming weekend in La Union to participate in their anniversary Hash. I’m going to keep it On-On as long as I can.
Yesterday’s Hash trail wasn’t so bad except for that first climb. Steep and slick, just the way I hate it. I made it to the top, though, so there’s that. And someday I may look back and miss those days when I could still drag my sorry ass up into the hills. Live it while you got it!
Things started off easy enough with a pleasant street walk.Our marathoners were once again leading the pack. They’ve earned the respectful title of FRBs (front-running bitches).Let the climbing begin.Yeah, people live up here, so I guess I can’t complain about having to climb the path for the first and last time.One step after another eventually gets it done.Did I mention it was steep and muddy?Come on up!Made it to the top.The view from here.Heading back down.The descent was comparatively enjoyable.The short option presented itself and I took it.A dicey spot on the way down. When there is green on the rock, you may well be in for a slip.Clear sailing from here on out.It wasn’t very long, but that’s okay.On-Home out back at It Doesn’t Matter.Old guys rehydrating.Icy recognition (Swan was recognized for double digits (55 runs).Back up front at IDM for the after-Hash refreshments.The Gash gathering.
There was some sad news from the Puerto Galera Anniversary Hash this weekend. Several Subic hashers attended the event, as did the Corona Hash group from Angeles City. A Corona hasher brought along her boyfriend, who had never hiked a Hash trail before. Apparently, he didn’t come prepared and collapsed during a climb early on the trail. Efforts were made to revive and comfort him, and eventually, a rescue team carried him down on a stretcher and then transported him to a local hospital. That’s where he died. Honestly, I’ve always been surprised there aren’t more casualties amongst the Hash participants. Count your blessings, drink plenty of water, proceed with caution, and hope to live to see another Hash is how I roll.
In other news, Swan made me another Filipino breakfast burrito yesterday.
A tortilla filled with yumminess.The innards.
In this post from the June 2014 LTG archives, I recount a journey I made to Songtan (south of Seoul), where I participated in a dart tourney. I find it shocking that a mere eleven years ago, I was staying out in party mode until 3:30 in the morning. I’ve become such a lightweight in my old age. And yeah, I still miss the good ol’ days in Korea.
Let’s check in with the Filipina Pea for her thoughts on some common misconceptions foreigners bring with them to the Philippines. Well, it is what it is, and I’m still here, going on eight years now, so I reckon the good outweighs the bad. You either learn to live with the downsides or you leave.
Let’s get the funny business out of the way:
Not so far—maybe I need to drink more beer.I thought it was bass ackwards.This should be a tourism poster.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from our beautiful Hariettes yesterday, but I wound up being very pleasantly surprised. How good was the trail? Well, I didn’t have to shortcut. Granted, there was a long (6.5K) and a short (4.5K) option, and I went with the lesser one. That turned out to be a good choice for me because the two moderate climbs took about all I had in me to complete. That said, I really enjoyed the trail, especially the portion I hadn’t done in so long that it felt almost new again. The trail was well-marked, and the gals obviously put a lot of effort into creating two versions that were pleasing for both hardcore Hashers and old farts like me.
Two of the three Hares: Fast and Loose and My Mouth Is Shut.Hashers gathered at the start.And we are On-On!Let the climbing commence.Through the jungle.A Barretto view.We were blessed with good weather.And only a couple of potential pitfalls.If you got lost with all the marks, it was your own damn fault.That’s always a good sign.Our On-Home venue was at Hasher Pecker Checker’s house in the Magdalena subdivision.Chillin’ before the circle.Hares on the ice. That’s Boom Boom Manana on the right.The long and short options.
Some after-Hash fun at It Doesn’t Matter brought another Hash Monday to a close. I’m learning to savor the moments while they last.
A little surprise on my journey through the LTG archives from April 2014: a post about my first time meeting the esteemed Kevin Kim. It was nice to meat with you at the Brazilian steak house.
Facebook had a memory for me from eight years ago:
A trip to Boracay to celebrate Loraine’s 50th birthday. Two weeks later, she confessed to being in love with someone else.
Too bad I hadn’t learned the lessons that Smart Girl Philippines offers in her YouTube videos. Here’s today’s guidance:
Maybe these will be worth a smile or three:
Definitely didn’t strike gold with this one.Something doesn’t add up here.Hmm, I’d never considered that possibility before.
On the bright side, we are on the periphery here in Zambales, lots of rain and some gusty winds, but not the full brunt of the typhoon. The only damage I’ve seen so far is a few broken tree branches. The storm makes daily living a bit of a pain in the ass, but this too shall pass.
As I mentioned in yesterday’s post, the Hare wisely elected to save his mountain trail for a dryer day, substituting a street walk through Barretto for the Hash trek. Walking in the rain made it a tad less boring, and I have to give the Hare credit for coming up with a creative way to craft a 6K journey around town at the last minute.
The hardy few who braved the rain and showed up for the trail.And we are On-On!Through the streets we go.A reminder that as long as you are alive, the weather is just a bump in the road. As I walked out in the streets of Barretto, as I walked out in Barretto one day…Arriving at this week’s On-Home venue, Johansson’s.Rain may be wet, but so is beer.Circle up!It’s nice on ice! These two were visiting Hashers from Long Beach, California. I spent a lot of time there back in the day.The 6K trail crafted by Leech My Nuggets.My 8K version included a walk from my house to the start of the trail.My beef stew dinner at Johansson’s.And as usual, some after-Hash revelry at It Doesn’t Matter.
Rain or shine, every day is a blessing.
In this October 2013 post from the LTG archives, I reflect on my life and career. A working-class hero is something to be. I consider this to be one of my better posts, and it will definitely be included in The Story of My Life. Assuming I live long enough to write it someday.
In today’s YouTube video, Reekay discusses the group of expats who were considered losers back home and brought those traits with them when they moved to Southeast Asia. I’ve encountered a few of this type during my time here, but thankfully, they are a small minority in the community. Granted, I’m far from perfect, but I eventually learn from my mistakes and I’m blessed with a pension sufficient to cater to my indulgences.
Let’s see how these attempts at humor go over:
I’m sure she was just horsin’ around.Watch your grammar, son.One of my Blondie favorites. Here you go.
It’s good sometimes to look back at where you’ve been that led you to where you are. And here I am ready to fill some more rainy day hours.
As soon as you're born they make you feel small By giving you no time instead of it all 'Til the pain is so big you feel nothing at all
A working class hero is something to be A working class hero is something to be
They hurt you at home and they hit you at school They hate you if you're clever and they despise a fool 'Til you're so fucking crazy you can't follow their rules
A working class hero is something to be A working class hero is something to be
When they've tortured and scared you for 20 odd years Then they expect you to pick a career When you can't really function, you're so full of fear
A working class hero is something to be A working class hero is something to be
Keep you doped with religion, and sex, and T.V. And you think you're so clever and classless and free But you're still fucking peasants as far as I can see
A working class hero is something to be A working class hero is something to be
There's room at the top they are telling you still But first you must learn how to smile as you kill If you want to be like the folks on the hill
A working class hero is something to be A working class hero is something to be
If you want to be a hero well just follow me If you want to be a hero well just follow me
Greetings from the Philippines! The fact that you are seeing this post is evidence that I survived yet another Hash Monday. Let’s get On-On with the photos:
Once again, I did things my way. Cums Alone and BF’s Wet Spot joined in the fun as we departed from my house at 1:00 p.m. with the intention of arriving at the beginning of the official Hash trail prior to the 2 p.m. start.And then, lo and behold, shortly after exiting Alta Vista, we found evidence that we were on the official Hash trail, albeit in reverse. Works for me!Getting ready to go up where everyone else came down.There’s that cabin in the woods I sometimes fantasize about.The view from on high.And then we saw where the trail went thataway, but we didn’t.Our journey took longer than expected, and we didn’t arrive at the starting point on time. We did encounter these Hashers making their way on the trail.Later on, we encountered some other shortcutters making their own way too.Back on the trail and the final steps were on Baloy Beach.I think I’d fancy living in this house on the beach, but 12 million pesos ($210,000) is a bit steep.Arriving at our On-Home venue, Kim’s place.Doing what Hashers do when they aren’t on the trail.This week’s shot of the Hash Gash.Circle up!Hares on the ice. That’s Vienna Sausage and Always Wet.A couple of old fuckers.Our newest named Hasher, Pussy Cat Fucker.A nice sunset at the end of the Hash Circle.The trail I didn’t do was 8K.And so was the one I did.
More beverages and camaraderie at the after-Hash gathering at IDM, then we were homeward bound after another fine day amongst the living.
Lots of lefty tears about the people being fired for their deranged celebration of murder. This sums up my sentiment quite well:
When I left the States for Korea in 2005, it was my first time being exposed to the unique beauty of Asian women. There was a time when I considered Korean ladies the most attractive, but now I find Filipinas to be the ones I like best.
So many to choose from in my do-over life.
There was a time when darts were a big part of my life. In the July 2013 LTG archives, there is a post highlighting the dart events I attended during the preceding twelve months. And now I can’t remember the last time I even picked up a dart. Times change, passions fade, and yet, life goes on with new adventures. I’m glad for the memories, but don’t regret moving on.
From Facebook memories, on this day in 2019, I linked to my blog post entitled “Comma-tose.” Guess what, all these years later, I’m still a dunce when it comes to punctuation. Still, I’m happy to be adding value as a bad example for Kevin Kim’s Substack grammar lessons.
I came across today’s YouTube video somewhat randomly, but I liked what I heard. The vlogger says that if you do these five things after the age of 70, you are on track to live to 100. Hmm. I’m kinda sorta doing all of them, so maybe I’ll make it to my goal of 85. I’m still finding it difficult to shake this feeling of impending doom I’ve been experiencing. Welp, I’ll just keep living one day at a time and see what happens next.
And you know what’s coming next:
No need to be an ass about it.Sounds like the reaction to my blog posts.Ain’t that the truth!
Another day of blogging about yesterday is now complete, so I’ll get on with the rest of this one.
Nothing special, but I’ve had worse. My biggest gripe was that the first portion of the trail was not well-marked, and my group ended up missing a turn, requiring us to backtrack. Otherwise, just the familiar, but not boring, My Bitch, for most of the trail. I lengthened the adventure by 2K when I started from my house.
I got a little tired on the way to the start.The Hare, Buddy Fucker, telling us where to go.Off we go!Passed through Mountain Mama Onelia’s place.There’s that mountain again.Branching out.Marching onward.A Subic view.And that town they call Barretto.Why, yes. Yes, we are.The gathering of Gash at the On-Home venue, Bella Monte hotel.Circle up!Cums Alone got recognized for her 50th run with the SBH3.And Buddy Fucker got a Hashy birthday cake.The “official” Hash trail, with long (6K), and short (4K) variants.My variant was just shy of 6K.The after-Hash at It Doesn’t Matter.Our tab included food and drinks for the IDM crew.
And that’s the way this week’s Hash went down.
Speaking of down, we still have no water, and if the Alta Vista guards are correct, we may not have service restored for two or more weeks.
Pouring a bucket of cold water over my head is something I dread. I may need to make plans for an emergency trip out of town.
From the LTG archives in February 2013, proof that bad poetry and bad darts go hand-in-hand.
Today’s YouTube video also comes from the LTG archives. In it, I document the life I was living in Korea over the preceding six months. It makes me sad to see how happy I was, if that makes any sense. In the screenshot below, Bridget is dead, Jee Yeun is gone, and I haven’t seen or heard from my other teammates in years. Life is like that, so enjoy it while you can.
I could use some humor about now:
Caring is sharing.Shocking!Oh, shit!
So much for yesterday, now it’s time to get on with today.
I’m happy to report that I survived my first Hash as a seventy-year-old man. Yesterday’s trail (I did the short version) was not particularly challenging, as it was mostly flat and paved. Near the end, there was a steep and muddy path down to the highway that was completely new to me. Keeping my feet on the descent was difficult, and near the end, I failed to do so. Fortunately, I came down on my ass with nothing hard or sharp underneath. Swan also took a tumble once. Other than that, it was an almost boring 4.5K trek.
The trail began at the Hare’s house in Alta Vista. That’s Anal Receptive giving last-minute guidance before we departed.I listened to what the Hare had to say.And we are On-On! It was good to see Pubic Head (in the white shirt) back after his recent medical issues.I got the Easter Mountain shot out of the way early.Taking the back way out of Alta Vista.This is one of the streets we do on our Candy Walk.We enjoyed the benefits of a well-marked trail.I had a “come to Mary” moment shortly before beginning that treacherous down.It was all downhill from here. I doubt I will voluntarily use this trail in the future.We made it to the On-Home venue intact.The old folks chillaxin’ after the hike.A gathering of Gash.A virgin Hasher is initiated. “What doesn’t go in you, goes on you,” but she managed to down the entire bottle without it leaving her lips. I guess that makes her a swallower.Swan and I joinedthe other “Hash crash and Hash fuck-ups” on the ice.And I was this week’s recipient of the Hashit.The way we went (purple for us lazy types).
As is our custom, we went to hang out at the after-Hash hangout, IDM. I think I got that right, this time. Good times were had as usual.
This non-Hash big spender (in the dragon shirt) came and quenched the thirst of all the girls. Thanks for that!
And so another Hash Monday came to an end with neither Swan nor me feeling any pain. That’s the way I like it.
From the September 2012 LTG archives, I’ll share two posts today that tell stories of how I spent my days as a retiree in South Carolina. There was my darting life, and binge-watching Netflix, in this case, Battlestar Galactica. Coincidentally, Kevin Kim is currently re-watching that series and has promised a proper review is forthcoming.
Some Facebook memories from this day in my past:
Nine years ago, I took my then-girlfriend, Eun Oke, to a bar in Angeles City.When the girls saw her, they all came down from the stage and surrounded our table. It was like they had never seen a Korean woman before. She bought (I paid for) them all a drink, despite my admonishment to pick one or two to spend time with. The next morning, she asked how much we spent, and I told her, “5000 pesos.” How much do you pay when you and I go out drinking in Seoul?” I had to admit it was about the same.
Today’s YouTube video provides more perspectives on dealing with beggars. I encounter them on a daily basis, and with the exception of “mama” and a crazy guy, I almost never give money, especially to kids. For one thing, it’s against the law, and as a matter of principle, children should not be conditioned to think begging is an acceptable source of income. I’ll give them cookies sometimes instead.
Here I am, still trying to be funny:
I’m glad he was able.Fame is hard to earn, but she managed it drunk and on her back. Well done!I like the way she thinks!
Good day Subic Hashers.. Today trail it’s easy and flat all cripple, lame and whimps can make it the trail more or less 3.5km..We run all together in the small hidden falls down to rice fields all the way to ON HOME. .Everyone can get trikes going up to 4th Court Rizal Extension for Meet Up and START on trail..The marking sign well marked.. ORANGES Ribbon, PAPERS and trees.
That’s the message one of the Hares posted on Facebook. It felt like she was talking directly to me. Still, I had my doubts, but there was only one way to find out. Of course, getting to the start way out at the end of Rizal Extension is its own kind of pain-in-the-ass. Given the reported shortness of the trail, I decided to walk to the start via the familiar My Bitch trail, which conveniently runs between Alta Vista and Rizal. It doubled the length of the official Hash trail, so I guess that makes me a longcutter.
Gathering at the trailhead.
Now, I don’t want to say the trail was poorly marked just because it was.
Now what? Losing the trail early on, and not for the last time.
One of the Hares, Always Wet, stayed with us at the back of the pack, acting as a sweeper of sorts. Whenever I couldn’t figure out where the trail was, she kindly pointed me in the right direction.
As promised, the trail was all downhill. But theearly portion was alongside a rocky creek with thick branches and sticker bushes. I’d prefer a hill climb to that!Gettin’ down!Strolling on the water’s edge.The only falls I experienced.Easter Mountain looms large.Walking on water.Down in the valley.Heading for the On-Home.
This week, we gathered at the compound of Hasher Smurf 69 and joined in the anniversary party she was hosting with her mate, Covid 69.
Quite the spread.Yummy this……and yummy that.It’s not a Filipino celebration without lechon.Live music from some familiar faces.A gathering of Gash.Circle up!Hares on the ice. Our host, Smurf 69 in the middle, Always Wet, and Derby’s Bitch, the one not facing the camera.Blow My Pipe was the Hashit recipient this week.
We ate, drank, and were merry, and then as darkness approached, we headed out in search of a trike to take us back to town. We were fortunate to find one without having to walk very far. We got dropped at It Doesn’t Matter for some after-Hash revelry, then it was off to home after surviving another Hash Monday.
The official Hash trail.And my elongated version, at 6.5K, if you are keeping score.
I’ve reached September 2010 in my journey through the LTG archives. This post documents my Labor Day drive to Gangneung on the East Sea side of Korea. Lots of photos of a beautiful trip.
Today’s YouTube video is one of a growing number focused on the increasing tensions with China. Perhaps it is an encouraging sign that so many nations are standing together with the Philippines. Perhaps China will be dissuaded from further escalation. One can only hope.
Today’s lame humor attempt:
A ballsy move, Kirk.The truth will set you free.Don’t be such a cunt, Riker.
And there you have it. I’m attending a birthday gathering later this afternoon at Alley Cats, and I experienced a once-in-my-lifetime event in the kitchen. At my age, that’s something!
Oops! I dropped the brownies when I was taking them out of the oven. Oh well, I baked another batch.
When I was walking the neighborhood today, this Cat Stevens song came up in my playlist. I was never a big fan of his back in the day, and Miles From Nowhere was a song I’d last heard fifty years ago, and it didn’t really resonate. Somehow, this morning it felt meaningful. I guess that is the difference between the 70s and being (almost) 70.
Miles from nowhere Guess I'll take my time Oh yeah, to reach there
Look up at the mountain I have to climb Oh yeah, to reach there
Lord my body has been a good friend But I won't need it when I reach the end
Miles from nowhere Guess I'll take my time Oh yeah, to reach there
I creep through the valleys And I grope through the woods 'Cause I know when I find it, my honey It's gonna make me feel good
Yes, I love everything So don't it make you feel sad 'Cause I'll drink to you, my baby I'll think to that, I'll think to that
Miles from nowhere Not a soul in sight Oh yeah, but it's alright
I have my freedom I can make my own rules Oh yeah, the ones that I choose
Lord my body has been a good friend But I won't need it when I reach the end
I love everything So don't it make you feel sad 'Cause I'll drink to you, my baby I'll think to that, yes, I'll think to that I'll think to that
Miles from nowhere Guess I'll take my time Oh yeah, to reach there
A short and sweet Hash trail yesterday, which suits me just fine. I wasn’t up for climbing muddy mountains, and the “wimp” version (3.5K) was challenging enough, given some recent issues I’m having with my back. I’ll be consulting Dr. Jo this afternoon to see if there is anything to be done about it.
It rained on the way to the starting point in Calapacuan (a fifteen-minute Jeepney ride away) and then, almost miraculously, it didn’t rain again until after the Hash was done.And we are On-On!Over a bridge…And through the wet backstreets of Calapacuan.A long set of stairs was the only climb us wimps endured.The view from up top.The last portion of the trail was the same streets we take on our Saturday Sweets Stroll.Familiarity did not breed contempt, however.Back to Smokes and Bottles for this week’s On-Home.I like it here.The long and the short of it. Purple is the route I took.
The usual after-Hash gathering at It Doesn’t Matter, and another Hash Monday came to an end.
From the LTG archives, a memory of the time when I was a Ringwraith. Softball was a big chapter in The Story of My Life.
In today’s YouTube video, Reekay talks about giving money to beggars. I’m generous in some ways, but for the most part, I don’t give handouts to people begging on the streets. Especially kids, who shouldn’t be encouraged to engage in a begging lifestyle. It’s also technically against the law, although I’ve never heard of it being enforced. “Mama” is an exception, but then, she never begged, just graciously accepted a handout I offered. The first time I saw and helped her was in my tourist days, and we are both still at it all these years later.
Humor me:
How’s that working out for ya?A measured history…At least he’s not commatose like me.
Let’s end it here in keeping with today’s theme of short and sweet.
all cripple, lame and whimps can make it the trail more or less 3.5km..We run all together in the small hidden falls down to rice fields all the way to ON HOME. .Everyone can get trikes going up to 4th Court Rizal Extension for Meet Up and START on trail..The marking sign well marked.. ORANGES Ribbon, PAPERS and trees.
