Morning Ramblings
I got inspired to write while listening to 'Heavens Mansion'

"It's been 5 years
Since the comfort of my mothers chest
Since I've felt the wrinkled touch of my father's hand
Since I walked away from my old ways
And I sit here without despair
With peace greater, chosing to live
And it feels good to be
And to know He has chosen me
And I smile eventhough I miss
To know that one day I will
Spend time there
See them smile proud
Miren I made it through
And I feel their touch just
Like the time of running naked
Glad as I walk
You are here with me
And eventhough I don't feel
Sometimes
I know I'm under Your shadow
And day to day You touch me
In every single way
I smile because I have faith everything will be alright
And I smile
And I smile
Its been 5 years"

Today was good. I had Cultural Anthropology which went well. After my class I waited around for my friend Chris so we could go get the rest of our books. Chris is one of my housemates. At the Harambee we had traning today from 9-noon about 'Love and Logic' which is about diciplining children and how to build them up with dicipline. It was interesting. Nothing exciting in the afternoon or early evening just cooked for the house. Tuesdays is my turn to cook.
At the moment I'm at a coffee shop in La Canada that is loud with people. They have comedy night today. The cool thing about this place is that it has free wireless interent connect. Great business strategy, these guys know how to make money.

Just Another Day In Pasadena

An optomist sees opportunity in every calamity A pessimist sees calamity in every oportunity

BACK TO SCHOOL DAY DUDES
I took this picture right after my morning stats class on the west side of the C building of my school. The image is of the quad area where all the "cool" people hang out. The ones that never go to class.
The girl on the bottom right with the pink shirt is my friend Claudia. She was trippin' at first. She was like why you taking a picture of me? I was like you are trippin' without luggage.


On Mondays friends from the community get together and we share a meal. Everyone takes turns on mondays cooking and today was my day to do the cooking. I made chicken taquitos for everyone.
Here are some pictures of dinner time.

Danish boys like them taquitos ey? Danish people are cool, at least the two living with me are. Hahahaha.


A look from the outside of my house looking in to the people that remained inside the house. Hey guys come out to the porch and join us. Its a beautiful evening in south cali.


Blair and Rob outside munching on the taquitos. Although I'm not sure that Rob knew they were taquitos.


This is one of the coolest families on my block. They live a couple houses from me, they are know as "The Tiptons".


The girl in the back is one of my house mates who is cooler than cool she is ice cold. And little bit is sitting in front of her.


This is our butler. He is a very good cook. Okay its me. As much as I love pictures and coming up with cool and innovative ideas of taking pictures I try to stay away from being in them. Danish Erik snuck and got me with my own camara. I'm going to get you back Danish boy I'm gone get you. Aaaarrrggghhh!!!!!!

I got on the gold line today and went to down town Olvera Street, Check it!

It was cool, to my surprise they had the a big time Latin street concert:
This was Orchestra Carusel. They were the best ones.

They had another band from Ecuador called Verde 70 which was pertty good.

This girl's name was Sabrina, She was pretty fly.


There is a Church and Chapel across the street from The garden area which was typical Catholic images. Check it!!!
Faithful Catholics.

Random couple outside the church.

Chapel Entrance.

Images in the chapel.
Bread from Heaven.

Praying Woman.

Praying Man.

Chapel from the pews.

Christ Laying Down.

This is the best picture I took today. Of an old Mexican couple sitting across from me.

I took this picture of a girl riding the gold line. I thought it was a good picture.

About three years ago two people met at a birthday/bbq party I had at my old apartment. Yesterday, we celebrated their matrimony. I've known both apart from each other. Me and the groom used to be roomates. Ronnie and Melonie I want to wish you both the best, and tell you that I love you both. I thank God for allowing me to be part of ya's life. I pray the almighty rains blessings into your life, and I pray that He fills you both with His love
Here are some pictures of the event. I hope ya'll enjoy them.

This is where everything happened.


The people had a little preboarding entertainment.



Patiently Rebe and Peydria await to board the party ship.


Two families brought together.


Ronnie and his men. Got yo' back D.A.W.G.


Delcia & Bertha, two beautiful bride's maides


Beautiful, Thats all I got to say.


What were they doing?


Grandma Dorthy and Hubby getting down on the dance floor.


Okay these next two pictures I intended to come out like that. I love photography.
Disco Flo getting down...


Rudy and Kafi bringin' the house down.


Dang!!!!!!!!Flo got me getting donw with Miss Eileen....Do the hustle!!


The last one, getting ready to leave the harbor. I was glad we didn't have to wear tuxedos because they are so uncomfortable. Hawaiian weddings are off the heezy.....!!!!!

Wedding/Cruise pictures coming soon

What the deal is yo! Sorry for not posting up for the last few days. I've been out of internet at the house. Right not I'm updating from a starbucks in Long Beach on Pine near Broadway. Things are well. There are some exciting events happening. Blessings.

Late Night Run To Starbucks
We got crazy and decided to go get some fraps. On the way there the car got crazy and started jamming to Lumidee.....Uh Ooh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!It was fun. Luckily I had my handy camara and got a shot. Check it.

This is what I got. Since I was talking about caramel machiattos. I got a frap.
Anyone wana sip????

CSI Miami
I almost forgot to mention that the tv show CSI Miami was being filmed right around the corner from us. Not that it matters to anyone but its cool. Also there is a movie that will be coming out called "Art School Confidential" and all this week it was being filmed at the college I attend Pasadena City College.

So I was trying to find out how long I could drive my truck before it would run out of gas and it did. God willing it wasn't too far from the house so I just walked home and got Chris to drive to get some gas. After I came home the whole household got together and had dinner together. Now I'm home and TyWanda is making me watch HGTV (Home and Garden Televsion).
After I got done running around the Rose Bowl I took these pictures. Enjoy.

The area where I run is three miles long around the Rose Bowl and the golf coarse. This is part of the golf park. I took it from a top a hill. I go there and meditate sometimes.

In this picture you can see the road that goes around the Rosebowl and golf park. Its nice to sit there and watch the sun go down. Enjoy a nice caramel machiatto having a conversation about anything or just meditate on that nice ice cold caramel machiatto.

This is a letter my friend wrote about me to an organization, he is an awsome man of God who I look up to and respect
I am writing you on behalf of Sergio Castaneda, who is a candidate currently seeking to receive a scholarship from your organization. I direct a ministry similar to the one he currently serves at the Harambee Christian Family Center in Pasadena. I have served in the mission of Young Life for over 18 years in Chicago, San Antonio, Atlanta, El Paso and now Pacoima. Young Life is a non-denominational organization that serves youth through mentorship and discipleship.

Sergio and I are accountability partners and I am mentoring him in a biblical manhood study through the Men’s Fraternity curriculum. We are also seeking to know and understand his spiritual gifting, then where and how to best use those in Sergio’s pursuit of his calling through service to the Lord. We also attend the same church, Northwest Fellowship, allowing us to continue challenging each other spiritually in other areas as well.

Sergio is a fine young man who hopes to impact young people for the cause of Christ, he desires to foster a vision for community transformation and indigenous leadership development through his example in the lives of those he is serving. Although he has left his hometown and everything he is familiar with, he plans on returning to duplicate this work there. Unfortunately, before he can do this he must complete his pursuit of higher levels of education and training. There are times when Sergio may appear to be stubborn and close-minded, the Lord is quickly making this into steadfast conviction. He has managed to hold on to his cultural identity while seeking to know Christ deeply and understand how to become an authentic follower that remains honorable to the diversity created by the Lord. Sergio has been instrumental in helping me better understand the local culture we seek to serve. He has also offered to serve in whatever capacity necessary to advance the kingdom in places that remain foreign to the body due to cultural differences and fear or intimidation.

Overall, I believe if Sergio is placed in a community that will care for him and support him in his pursuit of the call placed on his life, he will be a mighty testimony and instrument of the Lord’s power. I also believe he is making an impact in the Hispanic and African American communities through his role in discipleship and mentoring of young men in Pasadena, as well as is role and influence in the lives of his co-laborers in the faith.

I consider it a privilege and an honor to serve Sergio, by submitting this letter of recommendation for your perusal and consideration.

Sincerely.

Ramiro Medrano
Director,
Young Life Pacoima Learning Center

Hi Diana! Jesus Loves You:)
Hat tip to Diana and Beth for donating their hair. You guys rock!

Diana I just put this one up because its a good side by side picture of you and moms. Its a good picture. Put a frame on it sister.

After I came back from the airport from picking up Kenneth. Who has an appointment with the British Embassy tomorrow, I went to hang out at the home of one of the families I work with. I didn't get a lot a pictures but I got a couple check it.
This is Chabela munching down on some arroz con pollo ay mami chula!!!!!!!!that mess was good!!!!!!!

This is Elizabeth and Christopher. They were on a roll with those chicken legs. I wish ya'll could of seen Christopher he was mmmmuuuunnnnnnchinnggg!!!!!

Another very exciting thing was one of my house mates who went to Hawaii to visit family brought me back some flip flops that are not sold anywhere in the states only on the island. She got me a black pair and these you see here. Size 11 is perfect. Thanks AD. I'm greatful.

Esther this one is for you. The most recent picture as you can see I gained a few lbs. Aaaayyyy mi gordito!!!!!

Alguien queriendo
que dia tras dia
me inspire me arrempuje
sentir sus mejillas pegadas a las mias
inspirando besos nuevos dia tras dia
en campos llenos de margaritas soleadas
cuando no se quien sera ni en que timepo vendra
solamente el mar sabe en que ola se encontrara y cuando parado en la arena
junto a mis pies la traira
y al alzar la mirada sabra que yo su amo sere
y en mi piel estara
juntos asta sin un parar

Feeling rather refreshed this morning I got up at 7am. Noticing we ran out of coffee I made a dash to the local food for less to pick up some Maxwell House and some other grocerias. I got some chorizo to make my house mates a mex breakfast but upon arrival I noticed they were already meeting their hunger needs with cereal and candy bars. So, I just made breakfast for miself. At the moment I'm going to take a shower and do some reading. I'm trying to abstain from watching television today.

I just got back from the airport from picking up Florence. She was away on vacation in New York City. Now I'm home watching the 'Money Train' with Chris. I think I'm going to bed soon I can't be staying up too late since school is starting soon. Peace.

Since I'm on vacation I decided to sleep in. Today I drove Erik around Pasadena so he could get a feel of the city and somewhat of an idea of where things are. After driving around and picking up a converter from American to Euro so him and his wife can charge their cells and computer we went to grab lunch at 'Mi Casa Mexican Food.' I recomend it.
Its off of Fair Oaks. 812 N. Fair Oaks Pasadena. Not far from the corner of Orange Grove. They have the best carnitas in Pasadena.
Mi Casa view from Fair Oaks.


You will find this fine young lady that will be more than happy to take your order. Her name is Glory and looks like my sister Blanca.


I had a carnitas combo and it was good. Get the horchata drink to go with it.

You Know You Are Mexican If...
#1. If you can run, swim or play soccer in chanclas, you've gotta be a
Mexican.
#2. If you don't have a bank, but rather keep your money rolled up in a
cookie jar, you must be a Mexican.
#3. If you can fit 4 riders on the bench seat of a pickup you must be a Mexican.
#4. If your late tio left you a van and you turned it into a taco truck, you
must be a Mexican.
#5. If that same tio left you a lawnmower and a weed wacker and instead you
started a landscaping business, well, yer still a Mexican.
#6. If you save the points from the back of a kool-aid packet, damn...yer a
Mexican!
#7. If you get pulled over by a cop or get a phone call from a collector and
you suddenly forget how to speak English, yer a
Mexican.
#8. If you have a family member that has personally seen the LeChusa or heard
the cries of the Llorrona .MEXICAN!!!!
#9. If you have ever hurt yourself and your mom rubbed the area chanting,
"Sana Sana, Culito de Rana", then yer a Mexican
#10.If you're dad constantly mixes up the pronunciation of "Ch" and "SH" then
yer a Mexican. (example: Cherry becomes Sherry and Shoe becomes Choe).
#11.If you have your last name on the back of your vehicle's window in old
English lettering, you are Mexican.
#12. If you play baseball and throw the sign of the cross and then kiss your
fingers every time you go to bat, damn...yer
Mexican
#13. If you refer to your wife as your Ruca, Your Wifey, Your Mija or your Old Lady,
then guess what, yer Mexican.
#14. If you "Throw a Grito" every time you hear Ramon Ayala, then not only
are you Mexican, yer a drunk Mexican!
#15. If you feel it necessary after every joke you crack to stick your tongue
out and go, "aaaaaah" then damn, you qualify as a
mexican. If you put your hand up to as if to get a high five from those
around you as confirmation it was a good joke, then you are a genuine Mexican.
#16. If you have ever been pinched in church and been told "pobrecito de ti
si lloras" you might be Mexican.
#17. If you grew up scared by someone called "La llorona" . . . you might be
a Mexican.
#18. If others tell you to stop screaming when you are really just talking,
you might be a Mexican.
#19. If you "te persinas" with a lotto ticket in your hand . . you might be a
Mexican.
#20. If you ask for something by "dame esa chingadera", instead of using its
correct name, you might be a Mexican.
#21. If you constantly refer to cereal as "con fleys" . . . you might be a
Mexican.
#22. If your mother yells at the top of her lungs to call you for dinner,
even if she is in the next room, you might be a Mexican.
#23. If you compulsively yell out when you hear a
Vicente Fernandez song, youmight be a Mexican.
#24. If you use "manteca" instead of corn oil and can't figure out why your
butt is getting bigger . . . you might be a Mexican.
#25. If your family eats "pixa" instead of "pizza" on Sundays . . . you might
be a Mexican.
#26. If you have some "tias" that dress up in their "prom dresses" to go to
your birthday party at "el parque" you might be a Mexican.
#27. If you can't imagine anyone not liking "tacos de lengua" . . . you might
be a Mexican.
#28. If you are in a five passenger car with seven people in it and a person
is shouting "subanse, todavia caben!" . . .you might be a Mexican.
#29. If whenever you feel under the weather, you compulsively dab on some
"vapo-rub" all over your chest and inside your nostrils . . . you might be a
Mexican.
#30. Your mom packs your "lonchera" every day even though you've just turned
thirty-two, you might be a Mexican.
#31. If you're one hour late for a function and you say "llegue temprano",
you might be a Mexican.
#32. If your favorite heroes were "El Chapulin Colorado", or "Cantinflas",
you might be a Mexican.
#33. If you kow that you can't eat any thing without "Salsa Valentina" you
might be a Mexican
#34. If you lost your social security card and you can't remember how you got it. You call your mom and explain her the situation. She replies 'don't worry mijo your tio can get your a new one.' Not only are you a Mexican but an illegal Mexican.
#35. If you don't need explanations to any of the above, you know you are
truly a Mexican.

AAAAAAAYYYY!!!!!!!