Aemes World

Configure Linux Bind to Answer Active Directory Services

2011-08-03T22:32:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder how to mix and match Linux and Windows in the same network environment? Here's a quick DNS entry using BIND (DNS Server) on Linux to interact with Microsoft's Active Directory. Works like a charm. Following needs to be added on your zone file:

_ldap._tcp.DOMAIN.COM. SRV 0 0 389 DCHOSTNAME.DOMAIN.COM.
_kerberos._tcp.DOMAIN.COM. SRV 0 0 88 DCHOSTNAME.DOMAIN.COM.
_ldap._tcp.dc._msdcs.DOMAIN.COM. SRV 0 0 389 DCHOSTNAME.DOMAIN.COM.
_kerberos._tcp.dc._msdcs.DOMAIN.COM. SRV 0 0 88 DCHOSTNAME.DOMAIN.COM.

Do schools kill creativity?

2011-07-17T01:54:00.000-07:00

Ever since I heard Sir Ken Robinson spoke during our Company's Staff Assembly, his words stucked in my head. Aside from having a great sense o humor, he speak very eloquently. He said "the reason why we don't get the best out of people, is because we've been educated to become good workers, rather than creative thinkers.

In his thoughts about Bringing on the Learning Revolution he said:

Current systems of education are based on the manufacturing principles of linearity, conformity and standardization. The evidence is everywhere that they are failing too many students and teachers alike. A primary reason is that human development is not linear and standardized, it is organic and diverse. People, as opposed to products, have hopes and aspirations, feelings and purposes. Education is a personal process. What and how young people are taught have to engage their energies, imaginations and their different ways of learning.

I myself hates standardization and rigid rules which I think stifles innovation. Watch it for your self and you may agree.

Patient Care

2011-03-05T22:56:00.001-08:00

I spent my weekend working to improve patient care through the use of technology in a foreign land. I hope I would have a chance to make it useful where it needed the most...back home.

My NBA starters and De Niro

2011-02-20T22:32:00.001-08:00

Though it was raining at times, it's a great weekend after all. Met with Maya (after 30 years) and her friend, caught up with my laundry, clean the house (just some parts of it). But my weekend was mostly spent watching the NBA All Stars (wearing my Dwight Howard jerseys) with the kids. We love basketball (it's ironic we are in a city without an NBA team). Of course I provided the food and Deirdre provided interesting NBA trivia.

One question Deirdre asked me, "If you get a chance to pick for starting line up, who would it be?". I said, Dwight Howard definitely would be patrolling the center. Charles Barkley will be a strong presence at the block, Larry Bird will be raining those threes, Michael Jordan taking the one on one situation and finally Steve Nash dishing pin point passes and playing the pick-and-roll with either Barkley or Howard for the Jam!

Of course it's just a fantasy... now back to reality, the game is over, the West won over the East. Though I voted for Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant got his 4th All Star MVP award. It's back to work tomorrow, but before i turned off the TV, I chanced upon this classic scene from Robert De Niro pretending to shoot the TV (with Jackson Browne's Late for the sky song) in the movie Taxi Driver.

Song for Adam

2011-02-14T23:15:00.001-08:00

I could not understand why today, I was just listening to Song For Adam over and over as I was driving to work.

The song spoke of death (suicide) of a Jackson Browne's friend. Quite an irony on valentine's day. I finally realize that the song is a metaphor or even an allegory of love that was lost.

These days...

2011-02-13T20:42:00.000-08:00

I just heard it's valentines day. How could I missed it? It's easy...it's the last thing I'm concerned with at this point. Although it may be worth thinking back the time I may have forgotten to do. But then again as Jackson Browne said " I had a lover, it's so hard to risk another these days".

it's all about the cloud

2011-02-08T20:52:00.000-08:00

I just finished the re-launching of abrenian.com after so many attempts. Instead of the traditional hosting environment, I decide to use amazon ec2 cloud for my platform using an ubuntu cloud image.

abrenian.com has been continuously running since 2002. Since then, there were many transformation as far as the underlying technology.

The site is now running wordpress, which started as primarily a blogging software but now considered as a full blown Content Management System. The email system is completely hosted by google apps.

It sounds expensive you think? Not really. Consider this...google apps is free, wordpress is free. Although amazon ec2 is pay as you go, it's less expensive than the more traditional hosting. Plus I can run other web applications on the same server image.

who can beat the cloud?

who's lucky?

2011-02-06T21:53:00.000-08:00

Josh got a new car. The salesman asked me why I should buy him this sporty Nissan 350z. Quite simple. He deserves it. Plus, there's only one reason for me why I work hard. To give them everything I didn't had a chance to have when I was at their age. The salesman says he's lucky. I said no I am lucky.

Now if I can only come up with more to replace my aging Toyota Camry. But then again, I can wait.

Ubiquitous "SmartPhones"

2011-01-12T22:41:00.000-08:00

My current cellphone carrier Verizon announced that the iPhone will be available next month. I am not about to get crazy and switch back to iPhone. I am just worried that Verizon will suffer the fate of AT&T for too many drop calls.

SmartPhones are becoming ubiquitous and I am about to get sick of it. Much like hearing this song over and over at some point in the 80's.

A Friend?

2011-01-08T21:04:00.000-08:00

A friend is someone you share a deep personal (emotional) relationship. An acquaintance is more of a superficial (on the surface) relationship. Just because you see a person everyday (e.g. co-worker) or went to the same school does not necessary make that person your friend. But Acquaintance can lead to friendship or more.

Do you think the person you call a friend now is really your friend? or Acquaintance?

Sometimes...

2011-01-07T22:43:00.000-08:00

Josh would brew the perfect coffee in the morning. Deirdre would entertain me with her K-Drama. Nadire would give me a kiss whenever I make her dinner. Bell would just tweet.

But there are times, I wish I have someone to count on. Like making decisions for me. Pick up a nice tie or just simply be there when I feel exhausted. I wish I could have someone to pick up the slack...sometimes...

What happened in 1982?

2011-01-06T22:12:00.000-08:00

How many of us know that in 1982, Michael Jackson's "The Thriller" album was release and went on to be the biggest selling album in history? or The Time magazine person of the year was a computer? Or do any one ever recall the Tylenol scare which we popularly called "pataylynol"? Probably not too many of us. Maybe if we were globally wired then, we would have know more about world event.

1982 was the year when i finished high school. Undoubtedly, I would never forget about pimples, adolescent love (or love triangle), psychological maturity or immaturity and hormonal imbalance. And what about intellectual and physical rivalries? The list goes on...

1982 will forever be a part of my life with either good or bad memories to boot. It was the time when I started to either dream for the future or simply refuse to grow up.

read more of this at ericbringas.blogspot.com

Back and Forth

2011-01-04T20:43:00.000-08:00

Having two major role in my everyday life sometimes make me get confused. An impatient tech guy by day and a trying hard cook by night. At times it's the other way around. I feel like a pendulum swinging from left to right endlessly until someone forcefully stop it.

Am back

2011-01-03T19:46:00.000-08:00

As they always say. Something you love is a hard habit to break. Blogging is a hard habit to break.

238: Don't FB me, email me...

2010-08-09T22:52:00.000-07:00

So this is where it ends. My online social networking days are over and Aemes World blog is over. Like many before it, things has to come to an end. It was a good run. More than a year of laughter, fun and not so fun stuffs.

Today Aemes World will join the likes of Netscape, DOS, AOL (is it still alive?), Seinfeld, Monk, Gilmore Girls. All part of history. This page will of course still be online as long as facebook and blogger.com will remain online.

So don't FB me. Instead email me. You still know how to send email don't you?

237: Unplugged

2010-08-05T22:22:00.000-07:00

There was a frantic call from my family back home today as I was about to leave for the office. They saw my posting on Facebook that I will be arriving over the weekend. As I was talking to my brother, I can hear chatters and music in the background. Sounds like everybody's having fun, I told my brother. "Well everyone is going crazy! Are you really coming home?", he asked. I laugh and told him no but don't tell anyone. Of course they know that it was all a joke. But it was a good laugh.

My brother then passed the phone to my mom. She sounds very happy but obviously didn't hide a little sadness due to the fact that she expected me to be there. I told her I was quite disappointed myself but my long awaited trip back home will have to wait. We finally bade our goodbyes as I can hear in the background my brother shouting about phone bills.

It was a great way to start the day. I drove by the California freeway as the morning rush was waning. I turned on the radio and caught Dan Henley (Hotel California Unplugged Live) saying "...and I was thinking to myself this could be heaven or this could be hell....you can check out anytime you like but you can never leave!" Really?

236: Women know what men want

2010-07-30T22:29:00.000-07:00

Got a chance to watch the Padre's game tonight but instead gave away all my tickets. I'm not a baseball fan but it would have been nice to go out on a friday night, a fitting end of a crazy week.

But it was just one of those days when you just want to go home and lay on the couch. After all, I got to catch up on my DVR viewing. I have not finished watching the Tour De France (even though it was over a week ago and am still in the Pyrenees), 10 episodes of Sienfeld, Curly, Larry and Moe, King of Queens, Big Bang and yes Gilmore Girls.

Of course, I caught a glimpse of my mom on Facebook and a blow by blow stories from my sister on her trip back home. No thanks to the government (for shifting to the so called e-passport which ironically takes ages to process), I would have been suffering (happily) with the humid weather back home.

Instead I'm laughing silently with Jerry saying"Women know what men want and men know what men want...We want want women. How do we get them? We don't have any idea. Men gets frustrated when they see women reading articles like Where to Meet Men. We are here...we are everywhere".

235: Am back home...sort of

2010-07-26T21:49:00.000-07:00

It's happening I thought. After quite an eternity of waiting, the intercom suddenly crackled. "Ladies and Gentlemen we are now approaching Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Today's temperature is 32 degrees celcius. The local time is 6PM. Welcome to Manila and thank you for flying Hawaiian Airlines". I jumped out of my chair startled. I feel the cold in my room and it was all dark. It took me a while to regain consciousness. My phone vibrated and I sleepy checked an in coming text message. It was my sister. "Leaving in a few hours, will call you with mama when we get there". She's leaving for the Philippines and I am not.

234: Instinct

2010-07-25T00:45:00.000-07:00

There are things about your self that you think you are good at. For me I know have great instinct. I can easily read through the way someone dress, body language, tone of voice or facial expressions. I often use such ability when dealing with people or situations. Sometimes my instinct is either a gift or a curse.

233: College

2010-07-20T22:45:00.000-07:00

Spent the whole day last Saturday attending Josh's orientation. College makes or breaks dreams and aspirations. I expect the former for him. Although it cost me a parking ticket for parking at the wrong spot, it was a great day otherwise.

232: Fast Times

2010-07-15T23:06:00.000-07:00

Deirdre passed her driving test after her second try. Her first try I wasn't there. But this time, there's no way I could miss this one. Not even pressing problems at the office can stop me from being there for her. Just seeing her big smile and a sign of thumbs up to me as she alight after a brief run around the block made me feel contented.

Yesterday, I asked Josh how's school (he started his college life this week). I was expecting the usual "fine", or "it's ok" or "I don't know". But to my surprise he said "Amazing, I love College". The sweetest words a parent can hear.

Nadire called me as I was about to munch a big salad bowl at subway (surprisingly I was the only customer) asking how to use the washing machine. She wanted to wash her school bag, all clean and dandy. "Turn to the normal mode, add detergent, set it and forget it", I said.

I hang up the phone, turn to my lunch, I can hear Bob Seger (We've got tonight who needs tomorrow) over the piped-in music. Fast times are here, I thought...and I'm in peace.

#231: More Name Game

2010-07-13T00:26:00.000-07:00

Today is my youngest daughter's birthday. It's the second birthday celebration within three days. After a whirlwind trip to Vegas over the weekend, we decided to take it easy and had a simple dinner at our favorite Chinese Restaurant (by the way, I can say this is the best place to have Chinese.For those who will visit me soon in San Diego, remind me to take you there) .

Nadire (Nadirey) is now 13. As her sister Deirdre, Her name Nadire Irelan has a little bit of story behind it. I got her name when I was attending a U.N. conference in Istanbul in 1996. Nadire was a reporter, she was Turkish and quite a feisty lady. Her second name Irelan was actually the country Ireland (same as Deirdre's Erin) or the famous actress Jill Ireland without the d.

It's not clear what she wants to be at this time. But I always tell her not to worry about it. She's young and should enjoy being just that.One thing's for sure though, she said she'll hire a butler for me before she leaves. :-)

230: Name Game

2010-07-10T00:03:00.000-07:00

I was thinking of naming her Eric Jr. if she was a boy. But she turned out to be a girl. So I was thinking of Erica. In the end I settled for "Deirdre". I first heard the name "Deirdre" from a character (a stunning Russian Model) in one of the TV episodes of Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer in 1986. The name got embedded in my mind as I finally had the chance to use seven years later.

Of course the first name wasn't enough. I needed a second name. Not having second name or even third for a child is considered blasphemy, at least in the Philippines(I myself officially has three names).

So, for her second name, I picked "Erin" which is the the romantic name of country Ireland. Erin was a favorite word in the crossword puzzle section of the Philippine Daily Inquirer paper, a favorite morning paper in our household during my college days.

Combining the two names "Deirdre Erin" turned out to be a perfect match. Everyone I meet says that her name is quite rare or unique which definitely fits her character. Although her name has different spin-offs depending who's saying it. Her friends sometimes calls her "Didra", "Derdra" or "Dirdra". Of course our family would go for a more Filipino sounding name like "Debrang", "Dengdang" or "didi". I myself call her Deirds or sometimes "pong" (which is nadire's) by mistake.

And so goes the name game, as I (for the nth time) narrated to my kids while enjoying a pig-out dinner at Todai on Deirdre Erin's 17 years of existence.

As we got out (after an hour mind you) bloated, I told them to stand in front the restaurant. "Why?", they asked. "Let's take pictures", I jokingly suggested. "Yeah right", they said as they turned away. "Hey come on it's bad not taking pictures on the places you go to!, you're Tita Chiquit will be mad!", I pleaded. "Fine more stories coming tomorrow during our long drive to Vegas", I said. "Good I will make you crazy with my Korean music for 4 hours", Deirdre fired back.

229: 1 and 44

2010-06-27T10:33:00.000-07:00

I woke up today (with a slight headache) not realizing a year ago I started Aemes World Blog. I also brazenly promised that my blog will be updated daily. Obviously I fell short of that promise. I only wrote 229 out of possible 365 posts.

I wasn't feeling bad about it, after all it was worth the try. There where great posts and there were not so bad posts and there were posts that didn't make any sense at all.

All in all it was a great exercise. A great way to unwind after a day's work. And more important a great way to share an idea or two.

Of course, today June 27 I know that I am another year older (not necessary wiser but 35 pounds lighter). I also found out that I still have friends and family who still know I exist (my droid Facebook wall post notification hasn't stop since yesterday- thanks everyone).

Today is just another day for some but It's was today 44 years ago that I was put in this world to either make your life better or miserable.

228: Quick! Grab your Google Voice Number

2010-06-22T22:33:00.000-07:00

I wrote about google few months ago in this post. Back then you can only get Google voice via invite. Today Google finally open it to all U.S. Residents (sorry Canada).

Of course you need to have a gmail account first. For those outside the US, if you try opening an account, it will ask for a U.S. phone number to verify your location.

I love Google Voice, I used it to forward my calls at home so I won't miss anything and of course block unwanted phone numbers like those telemarketers. Quick grab yours here.

227: Stages of Fatherhood

2010-06-21T00:35:00.000-07:00

Being a father has many stages. I've been a father for eighteen year and here's what i think of being a father so far.

Stage 1 - First few months, you start not to get enough sleep (and sex), lose some weight and smell like baby drool when you go to the office. Your house resembles a factory of large-packed diapers.

Stage 2 - More diapers. You start talking like a baby. Words like "dada", "baba" comes out naturally. traveling is a challenge. Your luggage resemble a whole month visit but in reality you're just going to your in-laws for a few hours. If you're not visiting your in-laws, they visit you instead and more often than not they teach you a trick or two in parenting.

Stage 3 - You start to gain weight for eating all the leftovers from happy meals and ice creams they wanted but never can finish. You can't go out with your friends because no one will take care of the kids. Your house is a mess, you can't see your floor because toys and books are everywhere.

Stage 4 - You make sure you don't kiss them in public because they get embarrassed. Suddenly you are on your own because they rather go out with friends than going with you. You start to brush up on your math, english and history to survive the debate. You start to get few words like "fine", "i guess", "i don't know" or "I don't care".

There will be more as time goes by. You're a father from erection to resurrection. Bottom line is, you knew what you're gonna get and you're not going anywhere.

226: Ubuntu

2010-06-12T21:21:00.000-07:00

South Africa is in the eye of the world cup storm. The Spirit of Ubuntu (Humanity towards others) in full swing. Incidentally my favorite (so is Dr. Sheldon Cooper of Big Bang Theory) Ubuntu Linux use the Ubuntu philosphy in developing software for the world to use. Back to soccer, I always like Argentina. More so with the legendary Diego Maradona ( now in his 50's) who instead of firing those booming goals is now calling the shots from the sideline.

225: A girl or a boy?

2010-06-10T22:21:00.000-07:00

It was 21 years ago today. I was outside the delivery room. No I wasn't waiting for my baby to come out. it was my sister's (Chiquit) second born. As a good brother and soon to be an uncle, I was there for support.

But helping someone go through the process is not as simple as you think. First, can someone explain why most women go into labor at ungodly hours? Maybe it's a way women get even to their husbands who they blame for their 9 months of suffering. e.g. the morning sickness, the craving for weird food, the humiliation of being fat and ultimately the pain of giving birth. I have heard stories about women calling their husband the worse name you can imagine during labor.

Second, the waiting... ah yes the waiting, the pacing, the twiddling. If you had a chance to wait before, you know very well how long this thing takes.The worse part of waiting though is you can't leave (not even a brief bathroom break). It's the rule and you can't break that rule. Why? Because anytime, the doctor will come out the door and there's no one there to deliver the news. This will piss your wife more that you can ever imagine.

Anyway, I finally got the words that she's ready to blow (was it 6 or 7 cm when it's time?). A few more minutes, the door opened and I saw Dr. Villaraza, still wearing her scrubs and mask, looked around and shouted " Who's with Chiquit?". I walked towards her and she said "It's a girl! i mean it's a boy!".

And the rest is history... 21 years ago we called him GalBoy (coined from Girl-Boy). Today he's Kyle and he's 21. I saw him two weeks ago and yes he's a fine young man. He has moved out of her mom's. Although every now and then he would raid her mom's fridge when he has the time between school and work. He looked tired but seems to be enjoying his life.

p.s. 3 years after Kyle was born, I found myself doing an encore. But this time, it was my own baby (Josh) and thanks to my earlier exposure, it was a walk in the park.

224: June Gloom

2010-06-09T00:16:00.000-07:00

Spent most of my day outside the office today. My work keeps getting interesting each day as technical challenges are being thrown my way. I would have enjoyed it more if not for the June Gloom and somehow didn't see her today. I don't mind the former but can't seem to get over the latter.

223: Josh's Day

2010-06-04T22:29:00.000-07:00

A special day for Josh. Today is the end of his high school days and soon the start of his college days. As I sat as one of the spectators watching the formalities, I can't help but feel proud of him. How he have grown to a fine young man. He said he wants to be in business and will soon rule the world. Quite a lofty ambition, I said. "But make sure you do it right. And when you're up there remember you still owe me lunch. "

222: Blanche Devereaux

2010-06-03T19:49:00.000-07:00

Rue Mclanahan (who died today) once said "People always ask me if I'm like Blanche. Well, Blanche was an oversexed, self-involved, man-crazy, vain Southern belle from Atlanta -- and I'm not from Atlanta." She was one of the stars of The Golden Girls. Only Rose Nylund(Betty White) remains alive.

The show has always been a family favorite in the 80's.

221: what's with fridays

2010-05-14T22:20:00.000-07:00

It's friday and I always wonder why traffic is so light in the morning. Does this means a lot of people just get's lazy on fridays? Incidentally, I remember a manager used to schedule meeting at 4:30pm on a friday so he won't get too much questions from his staff. People love to say TGIF and always dread Mondays. If we don't feel like working on a friday, aren't we supposed to say thank God it's Thursday. It's Friday and I am not making any sense.

220: Where did this came from?

2010-05-08T23:00:00.000-07:00

I usually set my android to play random songs in my play list when I'm at the gym. Today I discovered this song "Best I Ever Had (grey sky morning)" from Vertical Horizon. I don't even know how this song end up in my music collection. Listen to it here and view a live video version here. Part of the lyrics made me pause and nod in agreement:

"So you sailed away, Into a grey sky morning. Now I'm here to stay, Love can be so boring "

219: Omelet, how can I make thee

2010-05-04T20:42:00.000-07:00

I can build a full blown Linux Web Server in 10 minutes. I can whip a quick SQL query. I can write a bash script while sleeping. But I can never make a perfect omelet. Tonight I tried again. It was all a mess. My consolation, Nadire liked it or at least I thought she did.

218: RARTFM

2010-05-02T00:05:00.000-07:00

Whenever I say am a technical analyst, people always say "ah you fix computers". Well yes but it's more than that. As a Technical Analyst, I solve complex technical issues. I would think of myself as an Investigator. Much like the CSI but instead of solving gory crimes, I solve technology issues. My job requires deep thinking and countless hours of sifting through vague documentations searching for answers. I have countless failures but I have my sweet victories as well. And each victory is always satisfying.

So how do I do it? My simple solution is RTFM or i should say RARTFM.

our pilot

2010-04-23T14:27:00.000-07:00

Just as they announce on the PA that our plane is delayed, a big bellied Guy wearing a coat which appeared to that of a pilot uniform pass by me with shirt open, crumpled hair and looks like Just had an all nighter. Everyone's puzzled and the Guy next to me can't help bit ask me if he's our pilot. I answered I hope not but if he is I don't mind staying another cold night in Vermont. Oh yeah he said..right behind you pal!!!

216: needle in a haystack

2010-04-20T22:28:00.000-07:00

I got caught up comparing myself to my colleagues. I never though too much of myself when I got this job until I found out that picking the person for this position was like looking for a needle in a haystack.

215: South Burlington

2010-04-19T19:42:00.000-07:00

My first night in a very quiet city of South Burlington Vermont. Haven't seen much except took a walk earlier to a nearby steak house and sample their local beer and a nice medium rare top sirloin with my Israeli Colleague. Tomorrow I am going to the Allscripts headquarters for a training on their HL7 engine which is the central hub for interoperability between our offices' complex healthcare system.The night is a little bit chilly but bearable which is good news to me since I didn't have "real" warm clothes. Meantime, I just found out that this city is famous for it's maple syrup. I'm not a fun of sweets but it might be worth bringing home a bottle or two.

214: vt

2010-04-19T13:11:00.001-07:00

I am on a tiny plane a crj 700 plane to vt pinned on a wall while my android is playing springsteen's trapped. Quite an appropriate song. Earlier I was in o'hare. Huge airport. I didn't get to grab anything to eat as my next leg is about to leave in 10 minutes. It's going to be another hour before I can breath. I am so hungry. I only had a cold bagel when I was in san diego. I am surrounded with folks reading pocket books. Apparently have not heard of kindle. My friend Jay warned me about maples in VT. What ever that meant I have no idea.

213: Best Wishes

2010-04-12T23:51:00.000-07:00

A former co-work asked me if I met someone interesting in my new job. I said yes but they are all married except for one. Good she said. So do you want to do something about it? she asked. I said no because I just found out she getting married this week. Instead of taking my shot at her, I shelled out 5 bucks for my share for her gift and sign a "Best Wishes" card.

212: why I love my Android

2010-04-08T22:07:00.000-07:00

It's been two weeks since I swapped my iPhone with the Android. I must say I don't miss my iPhone one bit. Here's why:

5. Rugged. The Android is heavier and much tougher that the more Sexier iPhone. I work in a rough environment and I would need a tough phone.

4. Speed. Hands down the Android is much snappier than the iPhone. Web surfing is on warp speed even viewing photos in FB or playing youtube video is a snap.

3. Neat Features. Flash Drive: My Android comes with a 14GB SD Card which can be replaced easily with a bigger capacity. The Phone can be used as a flash drive through USB connection to any computer. Music: using an app, I can sync iTunes into my Android in no time or just simple drop my whole music folder into the SD Card and you are set. Ringtones: Play any song in your Android and you can choose to set it as your ringtone. Camera: 5 Mega Pixel resolution with video mode and a built in flash.

2. GPS. The Android GPS is miles ahead of the iPhone. With it's tight integration to google maps, the GPS apps provides turn by turn direction with voice. I find it even better than my garmin. One time I almost had an accident trying to use my Iphone GPS. I travel around San Diego most of the time and the Android GPS is a life saver.

1. Call for free. When making a call, I can connect to any WIFI and route my call using my FREE google voice phone number. Quite a nifty feature when traveling abroad. I can see myself using my phone in the Philippines by just finding a WIFI spot.

Need I say more?

211: Different but not difficult

2010-04-07T22:40:00.000-07:00

I've been neglectful in writing my blog since I moved to a new job. It was a very different transition but actually not difficult.

Different in such a way that the system we are using are all windows based (hey don't get me wrong I still dig open source). Different because it's more of a corporate setting. Different, well new office, new boss, new colleagues, new responsibilities. Not difficult because I've know technology all my life. Window, Linux, Mac maybe different in term on how the innards are built, but the concept is all the same. Not difficult because I can adopt to different situation pretty quickly. Not difficult because I don't have to impress anyone but just do my job. Not difficult because I don't have to play politics, I just play technology around our data center (which by the way is 30 times on what I used to handle).

Yes it is different but not difficult...if you know what your doing of course.

210: The longest three days of my life

2010-03-25T21:39:00.000-07:00

It was 15 years ago. I remember we were on our way to the hospital. It was time for my third child to arrive in this world. That day, I remember we have to swing by my wife's sister to pick her up. We needed her help in taking care of Josh and Deirdre. Just like two previous occasions of her pregnancy, I expected a long wait outside the deliver room. As we approach my wife's sister's house, I noticed one of the street's name called Aemes. For some reason, that name got stuck in my mind.

We arrived at the hospital and she was quickly wheeled into the delivery room. Now the long wait has started. But after half an hour or so, the doctor emerged from the room and calmly informed us that it was false alarm. "Too early, go home", she said, to our disappointment.

She finally came out two days later. She was beautiful. She actually look like her sister Deirdre when she was still a baby. She has round face, round head and few thin hair. She was in peace and sleeping not mindful of the other baby's around her in the nursery. Her doctor says she's going to be fine which was a welcome news to us.

We have decide much earlier that we will name her Veronica Nicole. But later added Aemes (as in the street name). So it came to Veronica Aemes Nicole. Such a long name, I thought. I am sure she would hate us when she will soon start to write her name.

But our celebration was brief as I got a call a day later. There was something wrong. The doctor said that she started to look pale and having difficulty in breathing. They need to perform some test and was immediately put in an incubator and was isolated. Later on the doctor told us that Aemes has a Congenital Heart Disease. I didn't know what that was then, but sure sounds scary. After the doctor explain what it is, and that the chances of Aemes to live is next to impossible, my heart sunk.

All I wanted at that point was to see her. And I did. When i saw her, she was awake but it was obvious she was in pain. Her breathing was heavy. I offered my hand and she gamely grab it tightly and somehow wanted to say something. I felt she wanted to get out of the incubator. I didn't want to leave but the doctor said I have to.

The next day, Aemes needed a blood transfusion. I was immediately tested and it was a match. I don't remember how much blood they took but it was a lot as I felt weak afterwards. The transfusion made her feel better.

But not for long. Veronica Aemes Nicole died on the third day. She only lived for three days but it was the longest three days of my life.

#209: Brilliant Healers

2010-02-10T23:22:00.000-08:00

As I walked into my new office for the first time, I started to use the computer. I noticed my mouse pad and really made my day as I begin to laugh. Who would forget the funny trio of Curly, Larry and Moe. Laughter is really the best medicine.

#208: Keep the good ones

2010-02-05T22:44:00.000-08:00

I'm officially out. A quick speech, an exit interview and a complete set of Seinfeld DVD. Looking back at what I have experienced is priceless. From day one with this job, was a start of good memories. I will certainly will keep the good ones.

#207: A blow what?

2010-02-04T22:04:00.000-08:00

8 tequila shots, 1 margarita, 1 hennessy, 2 beer and a blow job (it's not what you think. It's actually a name of a drink). I don't know how I survived last night. But I guess having friends who did appreciate my work made the night worthwhile. It will be a while doing such a thing again.

#206: Lame Duck

2010-02-01T22:27:00.000-08:00

This is my last week for a position I held for 9 years. This week I will be spending time cleaning up my desk and review my hundreds of computer files from 3 computers. I will be mostly spending time wrapping up things and giving last minute instructions to who ever will take over. This week I won't be making major decisions. This week I became a lame duck.

#205: Mom

2010-01-31T23:00:00.000-08:00

I remember my mom would tell us the story on how she got separated from her family during the bombing of Bangued by the Japanese during World War II. She went missing for days. Her parents though they won't see her again. But she lived to raise 6 kids. Became a teacher and later on became the head of the Education Department in Abra for years until she retired. She's one respectable educator, she's a loving wife and a great mother.

I always have a good relationship with my mom: unconditional love and friendship. I can not count how many times I had failed her as a son. But she's always been there. I have witnessed her cry (the most when my dad died) but most of the time I have witnessed her smile and laugh specially when all of her children were around.

My mom is 77 years old today and I pray she will always be with us. I hope I could see here soon.

#204: Tinseltown

2010-01-30T22:08:00.000-08:00

We're at Tinseltown and no we're not here for American Idol. We're here for Josh's audition for Berklee College of Music in Boston.

But before the big day, we first had quick drive around Little Tokyo for a nice late lunch. Then walked along Hollywood Walk of Fame and saw this guy got lucky with Marilyn Monroe.

Hollywood! Depending on what your purpose visiting this city, it could be heaven or it could be hell.

#203: Transition

2010-01-28T23:19:00.000-08:00

In about a week I will be starting a new adventure. I will be joining a team of Technology Experts that will push for an initiative to computerize Medical Records of more than 165,000 patients from about 700 Health Care providers in San Diego. This is indeed a daunting task. But first I need to wrap up things with my soon to be former employer to ensure a smooth transition. Proper way to part ways.

#202: Walking away

2010-01-26T23:25:00.000-08:00

I butted heads long enough. I negotiated long enough. Time to walk away. Maybe my leaving will somehow become a catalyst of change. Not to mention giving somebody else a chance...

#201: Video for Haiti

2010-01-24T22:00:00.000-08:00

One thing I envy about my daughter Deirdre is how she can easily make videos. She had made a lot of them and refuse to publish it. There's this one video of the Korean show that she made a Music Video out of it. I encourage her to send it to the show producer but she won't.

Anyway, she's at it again. This time here's a heart warming video she did in support of the worldwide effort to save Haiti - USA for Haiti.

#200: Parents Beware

2010-01-24T00:02:00.001-08:00

Watched "Lovely Bones" with Nadire and friends. The movie is about child abduction and murder. Quite scary for parents like me. It shows how creeps are out there lurking ready to prey on innocent children. Parents always be in touch of your kids and be aware of their whereabouts.

#199: All in a day's work

2010-01-22T23:35:00.000-08:00

Peed in a cup in a girl's bathroom. Fix computer system remotely from my car. Grab a small bite while doing a demo. Had a meeting. Answered thousands of phone calls. Fire up some emails. Got soaked in the rain. What else can I say... Just another typical day.

#198: Constant challenge

2010-01-21T23:13:00.000-08:00

Nine years of doing what I do best and love. I would think that I would stick forever. Then something comes along. New place, new faces and lots of oppurtunities. This proves that challenges come our way all the time. Up to us to meet it head on.

#197: You make me feel like A Natural (wo)Man

2010-01-20T23:20:00.000-08:00

The rain is pouring tonight. It's cold and windy. Tomorrow will not be better according to the weather prediction. As I was driving home from a late late night business meeting, I found myself singing along with "the queen of soul", Aretha Franklin, singing A Natural Woman.

Weird? Yes, only if you have not heard Rod Stewart's cover of this song changing from Woman to Man. Whew!

#196: Giving advice

2010-01-18T21:24:00.000-08:00

Tonight, not only did I follow my own instinct, I listened to my children. There's nothing better to have your own children gives you the right advice. They have great ideas...they are not kids anymore.

#195: For a change

2010-01-16T22:38:00.000-08:00

The pros and cons of change is change. In a couple of days I may do the unthinkable...follow my instinct. The result could be good or bad. But of course I wouldn't know unless I try.

#194: Late night show gaffe gone viral

2010-01-14T21:29:00.000-08:00

I'm a night person and I watch late night talk shows. I would surf between Leno, Conan, Letterman shows and the likes.

Recently, Leno's new show is not doing well. There's report that NBC is bumping out Conan in favor of Leno to reclaim the 11:30pm time. Other talk show hosts obviously is siding with Conan who seems to be the victim of NBC's incompetence.

This gaffe is now gone viral. People around the world have something to say about this including, of all people, Hitler.

#193: I think I'll go to Boston

2010-01-12T22:12:00.000-08:00

I think I'll start a new life. I think I'll start it over, where no one knows my name.

I'll get out of California, I'm tired of the weather, I think I'll get a lover and fly em out to Spain...

I think I'll go to Boston

I think that I'm just tired. I think I need a new town, to leave this all behind...

I think I need a sunrise, I'm tired of the sunset, I hear it's nice in the Summer, some snow would be nice...

#192: Nanette

2010-01-11T22:09:00.000-08:00

We used to call her Jamie Rivera (Notice the uncanny resemblance?).

She used to cut our hair. But never wet your hair before hand because she won't do it. She would keep a banana on her bath robe (dipig is her favorite). She likes chicken heart, though I would ate it sometimes because it's connected to the liver.

She would scream watching Pops and Martin and can't stand Sharon Cuneta (maarte daw).

She left the Philippines just I had my first born. She's married to Mike (haven't met him in person but I heard he's a loving husband). She's enjoying being a mom to Aisha. And of course bugs me all the way from Canada for her computer problems.

Last time I saw her was in 1997, that's an eternity. But thanks to the Internet, we keep in touch. We had a two hour conversation over the holidays catching up on things.

Lastly, she loves this Joey Albert Song. To you my "still young" sis, Happy Birthday.

#191: Reading materials at Kaiser

2010-01-09T23:05:00.000-08:00

It's always a common site when you go to a clinic where reading materials are everywhere. It's a way to tell you that "you're gonna get bored waiting and here's something to read while we let you wait".

Well, here's a interesting reading material at Kaiser while me and my daughter Deirdre were waiting to see a doctor. On the first glance it just another one of those magazines.

But wait take another look.

Yes this magazine is dated August 23, 1988. This is even older that my daughter. So you think Kaiser is High tech?

#190: Success?

2010-01-07T22:55:00.001-08:00

Twenty eight years ago, I wrote on my year book "the fruit of trying is success". Now I wonder if I tried enough to be succesful.

#189: Nexus One

2010-01-05T23:31:00.000-08:00

Big news today. Google announced the release of their smartphone Nexus One which of course running the Google android OS. For now, the phone is only available through T-Mobile.

Here's a good thing about this phone. You can buy the phone without any plan. All you need is any SIM card (prepaid) that supports GSM network around the world. You can then have a free unlimited voice calls through Google Voice and unlimited SMS through GTalk.

But here's the thing. Are you willing to invest $529.00 to be free from any mobile plan?

#188: time warp

2010-01-04T23:35:00.000-08:00

First day back to work and am running like bull. It's just the first week of the year and already I feel the adrenalin pumping into my inner being.

Today was a blur and am sucked into this time warp. All in a day's work

#187: Josh

2010-01-03T22:59:00.000-08:00

My son Josh has been practicing everyday for his audition this month. He'll get a chance to get into Berklee College of Music in Boston this fall.

Here's two of his recording.

Can't View video on facebook? Click here for the original post

#186: Murphy's Law

2010-01-02T23:41:00.000-08:00

In Murphy's Law, If anything can happen it will. abrenian.com crashed today due to database corruption. another hassles of technology. Positive thing is it's the new year and I'm starting from scratch.

#185: 2010 - chasing the tiger

2010-01-01T01:58:00.000-08:00

It's not a good start for me for 2010. I am sick. But the good thing is that it's just the first day of the year. There's 364 days more to live this year. There's a lot to look forward to.

This year I plan to sleep early, worry less, live large and start my way back into love. This year it's time to start chasing the tiger.

#184: Hassles in Tech Support Service

2009-12-30T23:33:00.001-08:00

It is a common occurrence for small businesses to tend to give a lot of power to their Tech Support staff. This is a common pitfall for business owners who doesn't want to deal with the intricacies of technology.

If you have a technician on board or you are planning to contract one, here are some tips you need to know.

1. Have your technician give you a comprehensive technical map of your network. Access codes for every devices such as your internet modems, routers and switches.

2. You must have all administrative passwords for your servers and computers.

3. Register domain names under your control. I have encountered businesses where they cannot access their registered domain because they are not the registrant.

4. Keep track of every software you buy including license keys. Make sure all these software are all under your name or your business name in case you need technical support.

Follow this step and you can rest assure that when someone takes over your technical support service, there will be a smooth transition.

#183: A touch of Nadire

2009-12-28T23:23:00.000-08:00

Three days before new year, and I'm nursing a cold. I needed something hot. Maybe a soup. I always like the egg drop soup. And this recipe seems to be very simple.

I followed the 5 "easy" steps but it didn't turn out to be something I would enjoy. "How is it?", asked Nadire. "Bland!", I said, as I tried to shove the soup my mouth. She noticed I didn't like it.

I'll make you a bowl of avocado with milk and a little bit of sugar, she said. And I loved it.

I feel better now.

#182: I'm half way through

2009-12-27T23:22:00.001-08:00

I'm six months away from making through one year of blogging. Except from 2 or 3 missed blogs, I feel that I'm still on track in achieving my goal.

In 4 days, it will be 2010. A new year and of course time for new year's resolutions. I have not thought of anything just yet. In a few days I surely will.

#181: Way back into love

2009-12-26T23:32:00.001-08:00

While lazily slouching on the sofa and channel surfing, I bumped into this romantic comedy movie "Music and Lyrics".

The movie kinda intrigued me (at first) because it starred Hugh Grant as Alex, a washed-up 80's singer trying to write a song for a teen pop sensation. What Hugh Grant a singer? That's not all, he met Sophie (Drew Barrymore) and convince her to write the lyrics. Another what? Drew Barrymore a lyricist?

Surprisingly as the movie goes on, I found myself enjoying it (and yes Hugh Grant can actually sing) And not to mention the song they finally composed made me cry...ok am exaggerating. But listen and watch the song and tell me you won't love it.

I've been living with a shadow overhead, I've been sleeping with a cloud above my bed
I've been lonely for so long, Trapped in the past, I just can't seem to move on

All I want to do is find a way back into love
I can't make it through without a way back into love

I've been watching but the stars refuse to shine, I've been searching but I just don't see the signs. I know that it's out there, There's got to be something for my soul somewhere

Can't view the video on facebook? Click here for the original

#180: Ties that bind

2009-12-25T23:28:00.000-08:00

I have not seen my mom for long time. Ditto my brothers and sisters. Christmas season definitely gives us a chance to reconnect with each other either through phone, or through the net. But the important thing is the love and caring we have. Those are the ties that bind and you'll have a family forever.

#179: Christmas

2009-12-23T23:05:00.000-08:00

Christmas. Receiving is okay. Giving is good. Sharing the memories with love ones is the best. Once you recognized that, it'll be for keeps.

#178: farewell

2009-12-22T23:46:00.000-08:00

I thought it was a Sunday today. I'm a bit disoriented because I said farewell to a friend. I said it's all alright, why do I feel so sad?

#177: Just Friends?

2009-12-21T23:46:00.001-08:00

We've known each other for a while. We understand each other. In her own words she would say "we get it". She's a very good friend, actually a very special friend.

It's the first day of winter and I long for more of her. Sometimes I wonder if we ever be more than just friends.

#176: My top 5 Christmas Song

2009-12-20T23:34:00.000-08:00

5.Band Aid Do they know it's Christmas

4. Mean Girls Jingle Rock (aren't they hot?)

3. Jackson 5 Give Love on Christmas Day.

2. James Taylor The Chirstmas Song

And my number one Christmas song is this version of Santa Claus is coming to town by Bruce Springsteen.

#175: Favorite Christmas movie

2009-12-19T23:27:00.000-08:00

It's five days before Christmas. Wherever you turn, where ever you are, it's hard not to be reminded the best time of the year is in our midst. Even on TV, reruns of Christmas movies are all over the channels. And of course I can't stop but watch these movies again and again. No matter how old they are it's still feel like I watched it for the first time.

But of all the Christmas movies, my definite favorite is "Christmas with the Kranks". It's a hilarious movie about a couple (Luther - Tim Allen and Nora - Jamie Lee Curtis) who planned to skip celebrating Christmas because their daughter is joining the Peace Corps. Luther convinced Nora to spend Christmas in the Caribbean. Trouble began when their daughter Blaire decided to come home with a new found love to spend Christmas back home.

This movie by the way was based on the novel Skipping Christmas by John Grisham , best know for his legal thriller novels.

Definitely a must see. Who could ever pull up a stunt and skip Christmas? Would you?

#174: Forever young?

2009-12-18T23:13:00.000-08:00

Today I found out that I can pass as Nadire's brother. I guess It's true what they say that women is as old as they look and men is as old as they feel.

#173: Will be gone fishing

2009-12-17T23:48:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow will be my last day at the office before I go on a long vacation. I do this every year to re-charge my battery.

I always look forward this time of the year. For one thing, I got to just lounge around with the kids most of the time. Catch up with some sleep and finally watch every single movie/show stored in my DVR.

Most important thing though is to NOT even think about computers, rather think about other stuffs like normal people do. Like read a gossip magazine, learn a new recipe or join a book club.

Whatever it may be I am pretty excited! I will be gone fishing - figuratively speaking.

#172: Dear Santa

2009-12-16T23:15:00.000-08:00

This is another one of those email forwards. She's just so cute not to share her thoughts.

Dear Santa, this year, please send clothes for all those poor ladies in Daddy's computer

#171: Google Phone, another iPhone "Killer"?

2009-12-15T23:15:00.000-08:00

For the past few days, the internet is buzzing about the reported Google Phone called Nexus One. According to this report

the Google phone would be an unlocked GSM device running the Android 2.1 mobile operating system. Google, they claim, would sell directly to customers with no wireless carrier subsidy. The device could go an sale as early as this January.

Of course as with every smartphone coming out of the market, there's always speculations that it could be an IPhone Killer such as this article.

#170: Speak softly love

2009-12-14T22:52:00.000-08:00

Today is my late father's birthday.He would have been 75 years old. I've talked a lot about him in this post and this too. My mom was never the same when he died. I know she missed him a lot. We do too.

Anyway, I heard my mom cooked Arroz Caldo and Lechon (easy on the skins mom!) to celebrate his birthday. For me, I wasn't feeling well today. I have some feeling of sadness as I recall how he has been great with our family and how he worked hard (to the point of exhaustion at times) to provide the best I father could give to his children.

Aside from his sense of humor, my dad loves to sing. So on this day I am remembering him with one of his favorite song from his favorite movie. I remember how he would hum this song while sitting in front of the house after dinner. Here's to you Pa!

Can't view the video on facebook? click here for the original

#169: Office party

2009-12-13T20:34:00.000-08:00

I missed posting yesterday. This is the second time I did it. And for the second time, I had a good excuse.

Me and my kids attended our office Christmas Party at the Casa Guadalajara, a very festive Mexican watering hole off San Diego's famous landmark Old Town. This year, the company went all out with great food, overflowing beer and margarita and to top it all, an all night strolling Mariachi (Mexican Musicians) serenading every table.

All in all it was a great night, a fitting year-end for another great year for the company. Although I had too much to drink, I know we're safe going home as Deirdre was my designated driver as Josh brought his car.

By the time we were home, I had a terrible headache and in no mood of writing anything.So there's my alibi.

#168: Love of my life

2009-12-11T23:45:00.001-08:00

Freddie Mercury of the rock band Queen, has been voted many times as one the the greatest rock vocalist of all times. Here's why!

Can't view the video on Facebook? click here for the original

#167: Against the wind

2009-12-10T23:27:00.000-08:00

Aside from Running on Empty, this is another song featured in the movie Forrest Gump. I play this song a lot of times. Nadire knows the lyrics so well that we would sing along while we drive.

"And I remember what she said to me, How she swore that it never would end
I remember how she held me oh so tight, Wish I didn't know now what I didn't know then."

"The years rolled slowly past, And I found myself alone
Surrounded by strangers I thought were my friends, I found myself further and further from my home. And I guess I lost my way, There were oh so many roads
I was living to run and running to live."

Can't view this video from Facebook? Click here for the original

#166: Friendster makeover, now up for sale

2009-12-09T23:47:00.000-08:00

Friendster, was the pioneer of social networking until it was overshadowed by myspace and facebook. Although this is the case, there are still big following specially in the Asia-Pacific Region.

I have not logged in to my friendster account for a long time until i bumped into this article outlining major makeover. I was curious and checked it out. It was indeed a major facelift. Somehow the design has a facebook look and feel. Gone are the clutters and it's much cleaner.

But just as the big fuss on the announced change, a Malaysian based company is about to buy friendster with a reported price tag of $100M. This is much lower than when the asking price was about $200M a couple of years ago.

So the battle lived on. Looks like Friendster won't easily drop dead despite the dominance of Facebook and Myspace. Take your pick. And if you can't then settle for a much closely knit community of abrenian.com.

#165: All I want for Christmas

2009-12-09T23:12:00.000-08:00

My kids have been asking me what I want for Christmas. I always wanted an Aston Martin, I said. Seriously they asked. All I want is for you guys to be happy, I said. Ok it's lame because that's a given.

Alright let me be more practical. Here's my list. I hope Santa is listening. I know I have been good (most of the time) so I'm sure I'm on his nice list.

5. Digital CamCorder - I had one couple of years ago and it uses the 8mm tapes. Maybe if I have this, I can finally shoot my comedy series I have been developing for a while. Ok I have not written the script but I probably have 10 episodes ideas so far.

4. Android Phone - my iPhone is getting more annoying each day. I hate being constrained with stupid apps. With the Droid maybe I can get into apps programming.

3. Kindle - an electronic book reader. Although I still prefer reading the traditional paper-based books. I want to know what's the big fuss about this gizmo. Maybe I can now catch up with my reading.

2. A MAC - tired of widows. Need I say more?

1. Finally my top wish for this Christmas is.... Bunch of shirts and/or pants - what I have are too big for me now since I became serious about my weight. Maybe some linux shirts.

My kids breathed a sigh of relief. Oh a shirt! that's affordable! Well what can I say, I'm cheap!

#164: everybody loves Stevie

2009-12-07T22:24:00.000-08:00

This song by the rock group Fleetwood Mac featuring the amazing voice of Stevie Nicks. Another all time favorite and even this baby loves Stevie.

"well...Lightning strikes...maybe once...maybe twice...Oh....and it lights up the night...."

Can't view the video on facebook? click here for the original

#163: Who's smarter?

2009-12-06T22:50:00.000-08:00

In the movie As Good as it Gets, The main character Malvin Udal (played by Jack Nicholson)

Melvin Udall is a racist, homophobic, and anti-Semitic misanthrope who works at home as a best-selling romance novelist

In one scene, a receptionist asked him "How do you write women so well?" Melvin Udall replied "Easy. I think of a man, and I take away reason and accountability"

But is it really? Is a man really smarter than a woman? Well according to this report, the male ego is often larger than his actual IQ and women tend to underplay their intelligence.

I say it's neither. Both have human impulse in a spur of the moment.

#162: Technology can't wait but so is Our Christmas Tree

2009-12-06T00:20:00.000-08:00

I had to work today (yes on a Saturday) but technology can't wait. It's crunch time. We have to finish the development of Simple Transactions. At the same time working on upgrading a Law Office's technology systems - building their network, website, telephone system and email. This should be fun.

As the holidays creep in, so is work. But of course with all these craziness I would certainly not forget to put up our Christmas tree. That would happen tomorrow. Kids' can't wait!

#161: Three great shows

2009-12-05T00:23:00.000-08:00

I can't remember the last time a watched a play. Tonight I had a great time watching Josh on stage acting multiple roles (Sgt. Duffy, Bill. Mad Dog Mulligan) in 2 plays. Entitled "Sorry wrong number" and "Nightmare High School".

I definitely like his role as Mad Dog, the psycho Cereal (serial) Killer. He actually killed a Chex Cereal.

The play was well received by almost 100 cheering crowd. One funny quote "We will be the first to discover why students go the restroom before taking the test".

Monk the finale
I arrived early for the play. I was determined and excited to finally watched Josh in his first play. He has been staying after school for two weeks rehearsing.

I finally settled in my sit when it suddenly hit me. It's Friday and it's the last episode of Monk. I totally forgot to set my DVR to record the show. There's no one home and my IPhone apps to access my DVR has been going crazy lately. But I tried it anyway and was surprised that I was able to access my programming and set to record the show. And I was calm.

Anyway, the show finally revealed who killed Trudy. It's a judge who Trudy had a secret affair (and got knocked-up) long before she met Monk. The judge killed Trudy (and the midwife who delivered their baby) to cover up the affair because he was up for nomination for a higher position. The baby (girl) was hidden from Trudy (she was made to believe her baby died) and was taken away for adoption.

In the end, Monk finally figure it out the puzzle with the help of a taped message of Trudy before she died. The judged was put to jail, Monk finally met Trudy's daughter, Randy Disher moved to New Jersey and married Sharona (Monks former assistant), Capt. Stotellemeyer remained with the force.

Finally Monk remained a police consultant and continue his brilliant crime solving ability with his loyal assitant Natalie Teeger at his side.

And just like that. My friday night TV event ended after almost 8 years.

#160: The Lady wants to know

2009-12-03T23:45:00.000-08:00

This song of Michael Franks used to be my lullaby. The week is winding down and tonight I am tired and I'm feeling some body (maybe even heart) aches. This song will definitely makes you at peace for a moment and then realize it's going to be another day tomorrow.

"The Lady's just like heaven when she smiles"

Can't view the video on facebook? click here for the original

#159: A worthwhile project

2009-12-02T23:50:00.000-08:00

Tonight I was coordinating a simultaneous technical install on 4 business locations around San Diego.

My phone was off the hook most of the time as we were racing against time. We were given a 3 hour window to take out a system that seems to be running for decades and install a new system that would (perhaps) run better.

It was tiring but it was a good experience which makes it worth the effort. Maybe in the future I will be coordinating a nationwide roll-out, who knows!

#158: Overwelmed and concerned

2009-12-01T23:07:00.000-08:00

After launching the new abrenian.com last night, the site has been buzzing with activities. As of this writing we already have more than 130 registered users and still climbing.

The launching of the site coincides with the last day of filing for Candidacy for the 2010 Local and Presidential Elections. Already, Abrenians are reacting to the candidates in our province. Looks like a two cornered fight between the Valeras and the Lunas, with some other familiar names like Ching Valera and Mailed Molina.

For those familiar with politics in Abra, you can be sure that with the protagonists I just mentioned is a recipe of disaster. The only question is who's going to draw first blood.

I have mixed feelings, overwhelmed and concerned.

#157: Retiring early

2009-11-30T21:33:00.000-08:00

I've always been a night person. There's something about the quiet night that makes me awake. I think better at night and sometimes decisions are made at this time. But for a change I am retiring early. Interesting day tomorrow,the first day of December and a big decision to make.

Oh by the way, the new abrenian.com is now live. Check it out!

#156: On Holiday mood

2009-11-29T22:01:00.001-08:00

All in all it was a great 4-day weekend. I haven't had such a productive break for a while. I was able to achieve my goal with the turkey, spend most of the time with the kids plus I finally finished setting up the new abrenian.com site (which will be launched on Dec. 1, 2009).

It's back to work tomorrow. As in previous years, Our IT Department will be on the look-out with our Internet Traffic as it's going to be Cyber Monday (a day where staff would shop online).

The long Thanksgiving weekend is over. That means it's a start of countdown to Christmas. Already Christmas songs is playing on the air waves. Holiday mood is here.

#155: Finally some rain

2009-11-28T23:40:00.001-08:00

For a change, today it's raining in San Diego. I can't remember when was the last time it rained in San Diego. I always read in the news the we need rain as our water supply is on dangerous low level.

I always love when it rain. It brings back the memory of my childhood (every kids love to play in the rain) when I would pester my parents to play in the rain. There's nothing better than feeling the cold raindrops soaking my body.

Today, I felt the urge of playing in the rain but that would be embarrassing for an adult running around half naked for all eyes to see. That's not good for anyone, is it?

#154: Maybe just a smile...

2009-11-27T23:52:00.000-08:00

I mostly listen to rock music but in my college days I had some favorite Filipino Music too. I remember those days we commonly called them OPM (Original Pilipino Music).

One comes to mind this song by Jam Morales. Okay not that Jam Morales but this Jam Morales. Why can't they make songs like this anymore?

can't view the video on Facebook? Click here for the original

#153: How to tame a turkey - The Finale

2009-11-26T23:40:00.000-08:00

In my earlier post, I promised that I'm going to tame a turkey. Today's the day and here's the blow-by-blow account of my battle with the great bird:

9:30am: I woke up a little sore and nursing a slight cold. Ok I'm trying to find a way out.

10:30am: Ate Breakfast (bacon and egg) with Nadire. Deirdre and Josh as usual has already eaten much earlier.

11:30am: Run out of drinking water. Quickly swing by refilling station.

12:00pm: Review my game strategy (Ok the recipe I should say.) Took a quick shower to take out some tensions building inside me.

12:30pm: Lay down the 12 pound Turkey on a tray. nothing fancy, just glazed turkey with some olive oil and sprinkle with just enough salt (NOT to much sodium- Deirdre). No stuffing too. what the heck is a thyme

1:00pm: "I'm hungry" - Deirdre. Whoa! turkey won't be ready in 3 hours? No worry, I brought a backup. Fully cooked Ham

1:30pm:We started to continue watching the Korean Soap Opera Glass Slippers.

2:00pm: Turkey is ready for the chamber. Oven is heated at 400F

2:30pm: Continue watching soap opera (episode 9 is playing). Lower oven temperature to 350F

3:30pm: Deirdre and Joshua seems to want to eat Nadire.

4:30pm: Is it done yet? No!!!. Eat some more Ham. Lower down oven temperature to 225F.

5:00pm: Come On! It must be ready now? We want to eat Nadire's lips now! Continue watching Episode 11.

5:30pm: Ding! Timer's done! Voila! Here's your Bird! Hot, crisp, brown and juicy!

Yes I know. My carving skills sucked!

Prime parts for the cook. Leg, wing, neck and the tail! Can't find the gizzard and liver!

The Cook: Come on guys be honest! How is the birds? Kids: Perfect!

6:30pm: Drove to the movie theater and watched Ninja Assassin. A fitting finale for a great day with my kids and a sweet victory for me!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

P.S. Did I mention there was a slight bobo on my part! the gizzard and liver were left inside the turkey with the plastic still in-tacked! ooppppssss :-( . alright it's my first turkey so give me a break, will yah?