Joyce's first day back at school...

Jun 06, 2011

Monday here in the Philippines, the first day of school for Joyce, she sure looked bright and as shiny as a new penny this morning...

We slept good last night... I have to tell you though as I mentioned once before, when she is tired and sleepy, it doesn't come on her slowly, it is like you flip a switch... one moment she is chatting or busy then next she decides she is sleepy, hollers for lights out, music off etc and she is ready to shut down... amazing process to witness.

Nora and Joyce left about 10 minutes ago, it is now 7:09 AM. Nora needed to accompany her on the first day, much different than in American school systems.

Nora is also going to BDO bank to send Auntie Linda the rent money from one of our neighbors.

I have no plans at all today that I can think of, of course, that could change at any time for sure...

From denny's iPad...

The girls and baby are back home now... Great day in the morning!!!

May 05, 2011

Yesterday proved to be a great day for Nora and I, we enjoyed each other all day, got to see another movie, got some shopping done and just had a good time... It cost a little money, but was fun just the same... visiting her Uncle and Auntie in the town of Venzuelea was depressing as they are so very poor and live in a greatly overpriced concrete box that is no bigger than your bathroom Lollie... it is so sad, they once were pretty well off, but then his business failed and they basically are below poverty level... way below.

It is now 6:39 AM and Jenny, Joyce and the baby just arrived via taxi from Manila... it was expensive for me to take everyone to Basud then get them all back here again... I will save money being home I think.

Oh well, it is fine, I am happy they are back home and of course Grandma is happy to see her baby grandson... Life goes on, and, I get a refund says my friend Claudine... damn it don't get much better than that!!!

See ya later gaters...

From denny's iPad...

Taxes and headaches... finally done with that... Thanks guys !!!!!

May 04, 2011

Great day yesterday, the ride to Manila and the Airport was really long, but we did finally get there. It too about an hour, but I now have reservations on the flight home on 1 July. I could not confirm the flight from L.A. to Portland but will do so about mid June... the agent said it was too far in advance so no problem. No charges to me so that is good, Once I confirm the domestic leg of the trip and let Korean Air know it will all be good.

We actually enjoyed the day, stopped at a marketplace in Manila and bought some blouses for Joyce for school and also got her some socks.

We slept good after a brief "interlude". It is nice being close. Today we will go visit one of her Uncles and also pay the Electric bill. Probably will hit the Mall also, I need to check and see what is playing at the theater.

I want to thank Lollie, Gareth, Claudine and Melissa for the parts they played in getting thru the latest edition of crisis... my taxes for 2011... it is now done and the paperwork is on the way so that is all good. I could not have asked for better support from all four of them and I truly thank God that they are on my team.

Enough for now... Enjoy your day.

From denny's iPad...

The War has ended... the conflict has resolved itself, now evasion is the rule.

May 03, 2011

Yesterday continued to be a cold day relationship wise with Nora, she remained staunchly entrenched in her dispair. I worked most of the morning with Gareth to get the I-864 he was filling out completed... hopefully it is Ok now.

After dinner, I came to the sleep apt, took a bath and by 8:30pm had turned out the lights and went to bed, Nora in the mean time had been in and out and then went to watch TV at the other apt. Sometime later she came to bed, I said nothing. A little while after she came to bed, she scooted over and snuggled and told me she loved me. That made everything better for both of us.

This morning, she is back to her old self and even had a smile for me... especially after she checked my mail and found a letter from Claudine indicating that she had gotten the required W-7 forms and that my taxes were complete, waiting for Melissa's signature so they could be mailed. I did, did I not, tell her to be positive??? perhaps it will influence her future endeavors... I hope so. But she was not the only one to garner a lesson, I also learned as well... muddling my way thru this whole process has been anything but sweet.

Today we go to Manila... perhaps breakfast on the way...

From denny's iPad...

A rough night and bumpy road awaits us...

June 1 & 2, 2011

Wednesday, June 1... this day was not one of the better days we have had together... the whole issue of taxes and the fact that I chose to pospone filing them and the residual fallout from that decision has come to rest squarely in my lap. Nora blames me for the delay in getting the Visa's processed because the US Embassy insists on having a current tax filing even though I have an approved extension filed with the IRS. She is basically at the end of her emotional rope and the result has been a terrific strain on our relationship. I think that it has been coming to a head for some time now, all the little delays and problems seem to mount up. She didn't talk to me all last night and this morning is not proving to be much better.

I have tried to explain to her what is happening, but after I mentioned that Claudine would be on vacation from the 3rd to the 20th, she just really lost it. I don't believe the delay will be that much, a couple weeks at the most, but she has waited this extra year thanks to Medical reasons and now if we don't get the Visa's for the kids early this month we will have to take them to St. Lukes clinic for another chest x-ray which makes no sense to me as St. Lukes clinic has alread released them for the visa process.

I believe that there are times that Nora misunderstands things that she either hears from others or they are misinformed and just pass that misinformation to her. She is pissed, but whether all at me or at the whole situation is hard to get to the bottom of right now. I suppose giving her space will eventually assist in her calming down.

Last night she said she is tired of the process and doesn't want to go to America... a typical reaction I would think to over stressed nerves and a culmination of the frustration we have both suffered in this process. I am trying so hard to be strong for both of us but my gosh it is hard. After she told me that, I calmly told her that I was going back home this month and if she wrote or called and told me she didn't want to come to America that I would end the relationship, not write, or call or send support or be in touch with her ever again... Not a good response on my part but then it is the frustration of the whole convoluted process coming to a head... I later told her that I would never let her go, but that was after the fact.

She has decided to do laundry today, probably as a method of keeping busy and occupying her mind with something other than the fury she feels at the whole situation right now. I don't know what to say to her now, I have told her over and again to please be patient and that it will all work out fine, but at her present state of mind that just is not getting the job done... I feel so sorry for her, and she is right, if I had just listened to her and filed the taxes long ago this would be a none issue... but, I thought I was doing the right thing and the best thing for us as a family but who would have guessed that the US Embassy would not accept an IRS approved extension for the 2010 tax year??

I ask that you pray for us, especially for Nora who has put up with so very much in this process, pray for her strength, and her faith to be increased and pray that God take her hand and lead her thru this safely. Also pray that God impresses on her that I love her so deeply and want so much for her to be happy and blessed... Pray that her vision of the future of us together is bright and clear and happy...

It will work out, but gosh it seems that we picked a bumpy road this time...

Thanks for your prayers your thoughts and your continued love and support...

Money from remitHome came yesterday

From denny's iPad...

Last day of May today here in the Philippines...hard to believe.

May 31, 2011

We went t the mall Yesterday just before lunch... we had Lunch at KFC or rather Nora did. I tried to order what I wanted but it was not offered?? I asked for 4 chicken wings, some fries and a coke zero... odd, they offered me 6 wings but I only wanted 4. I ended up with fries and a coke zero...

We then attended the movie "Pirates of the Carrribean" it was OK, but not up to the standards of it's predecessors...

Nora bought a new belt and did some window shopping and we bought some Cheetos... yes Lollie jalapeño ones too... two bags. We also got two cans of mug root beer, mine is still in the fridge but she drank most of hers.

We had a good time then came home... Kenneth had elected to stay home for what ever reason.

Slept after a rough start...the air seemed so heavy, it was difficult to breath comfortably, even Nora noticed it. After awhile though we did drift off to sleep. We woke about 7:30 this morning. I was up right away and bathed and Nora followed shortly thereafter..

It was/is Memorial Day in America today, I hope everyone enjoyed it and spent it in honor of those who've laid down their lives for the freedoms we enjoy today... Bless them one and all.

From denny's iPad...

Monday... I hope Claudine gets the W-7 stuff this week.

May 30, 2011

Good day yesterday, I bought a couple of books for $2.99 each and have been reading the 'Spinward' series... good plot and characters and the author keeps it moving right along.

We slept well last night, today, actually this morning, Nora wants to register Joyce for school, I argued that we would be leaving next month but she countered with 'Are you Sure?' and I could not positively say that we definetly would leave in June so I told her to go ahead and do it, it doesn't cost anything she says.

Sometime this week, we will go to Manila to the Airport and the Korean Air place and schedule my home flight.

After she returns from school, she wants to go to the market then to the Mall, I just suggested that after she returns from school, we go to the Mall, perhaps have lunch and an movie then stop at the market on the way home...

We will see how that all works out...

Weather seems ok today, no rain last night or any residuals from the Typhoon CheDeng passed thru. I am glad.

Have a great day everyone.

From denny's iPad...

Sunday, and the last one in May...

May 29, 2011

Yesterday was fraught with rain showers most of the day, we stayed home Yesterday, I finished another of the series books that I am currently reading, got hooked on Sci-Fi for awhile and it is an interesting, the imagination of man and woman as they conjure up stories of that may come in the future... oft I wonder if some of their ideas get incorporated in the technologies of today or if it is the other way around... either way, I enjoy it.

Nothing special today, Nora and I may go to the mall, depends greatly on how she feels, at this time, being close to a comfort room is a necessity for her. I keep reminding her, there is a way to eliminate them for good, but she is skeptical...

Slept good, Nora had another dream that I had a girlfriend... she is a very jealous girl, I suppose that it is because so many filipino men get girlfriends on the side and they don't really hide the fact...

I told her I have never had a girlfriend while married...

I told Nora I want to go to Korean Air next week and schedule my return flight to the States... I hope I can get one close to the end of June.

From denny's iPad...

Saturday here, the first Squall from CheDeng came thru... good rainfall little wind.

May 28, 2011

We did go to the Mall for a short time, got a treat at Dairy Queen, Nora did a little food shopping, I bought a pair of Islander thongs, much better for my feet. We decided not to go to a movie yesterday but maybe today (Saturday) or tomorrow.

Came home and finished the laundry, the wind was pretty brisk so the clothes dryed quickly.

Spent most of the afternoon reading and Nora doing some minor cleaning... She had to attack some ants that threatened to overthrow our rule... amazing how a little chemical argument can turn the tide.

Slept good, though Nora is in the midst of her monthly visitor so she experienced some discomfort until she took her midol.

I just finished my coffee 8:38 AM. We just had a squall roll thru, part of the pre or post CheDeng show I am certain of that.

Nothing pressing today so I will just be a bystander...

I really enjoyed talking a little to Lollie and Mr. Ed yesterday, the connection was poor but we still managed to get a little conversation going.

We shall see what this Memorial Day Weekend brings... probably nothing here in the Philippines, but then it is a U.S. holiday...

Bye for now my friends and family...

From denny's iPad...

Friday again... laundry today

May 27, 2011

Quiet last night, evidently it rained while we had dinner. I went to the sleeper after dinner and read then Nora came. She played her games and I read a little more, we went to sleep about 10pm.

It was warmer last night but not too hot, sleep came easily and there were no disruptions to speak of... The roosters woke us early this morning and we rolled out about 7am... laundry will be done today, but if the rains come I wonder where we will put all the clothes??

Nothing special planned for today, perhaps a trip to Divine for food but that would be about it... today is Friday... tomorrow we might go to the Mall and see a movie.

From denny's iPad...

Marilao and a nice Thursday morning... life could always be worse!!

May 26, 2011

Well life should resume some degree of normallacy starting today... yesterday was full but very rewarding to me as the forms needed by Claudine are on the way to her... it was a little more expensive than I thought but not terrible considering International travel and all... she should get everything by next week... I received a confirmation email that she is expecting them.

Got a short msg from Lollie as well, all is well there so I hope to chat with her today.

We changed out the bedding yesterday afternoon so with the cooler weather and clean bedding, we both seemed to sleep quite nicely.

We will go to SM Mall today, I have no special thing to do there but Nora will be replenishing some supplies here in the house... she shopped at Divine market yesterday for some items but the stuff we get at SM is not available in the local market place.

The next week or two should prove to be interesting what with the newest Typhoon tearing up the coastline... likely we will experience some local flooding and winds.

Catch ya all later... have a dandy !!

From denny's iPad...

Document from My Writing Nook: May 25, 2011

May 25, 2011

Well, last night about 8:40pm we left Fathers home and headed for the bus terminal in Daet to catch the 9:30pm SuperLiner AC bus that would take us back to Manila. We boarded and had the first 3 seats which seemed to work pretty well for me.

We arrived in Manila around 5:45 or so then took a cab to the SanTran station and got another bus out to Marilao then a tricycle home.

After we bathed and such, Nora and I headed back to Manila and were going to go to the DFA to get certified/norarized copies of the birth cirtificates for her and the children... On the way to the DFA, we stopped at a copy certification booth and determined that we really did not need to go to DFA because all that was asked for to accompany the W-7 forms was a certified copy of the passports or a notarized copy... this lady provided the certified copy (no less than by an attorney with raised seal and all), it cost me for 3 certified copies about 1,200p and saved us probably a day and a half... Not a bad bargain in my estimation.

After getting the documents, we went to LBC and had them sent by courier to Thrifty Tax Service in Lebanon which will allow Claudine to complete my 2010 taxes and send a copy of them to L & G who will inturn courier them back to me where we can then send them by "Doc2Go" a courier service used by the Embassy here in the Philippines.

We then stopped at Jollibee for some fries for me and chicken dinner for Nora. She is hunting for a reason for things to go wrong with the process again... I wish she were more optomistic. From there, we took a Jeepster to the SanTran station and luckily got front row seats in an AC bus... we just got home and it's 2:03 PM.

Tomorrow we will get back to normal... I promise :)

From denny's iPad...

Document from My Writing Nook: May 24, 2011

May 24, 2011

Sleep, with the aid of the AC was ok... the last night we shall have spent here in Basud, tonight we leave on the SuperLiner bus for Manila/Marilao. Tomorrow will be Wednesday and we shall spend much of it at the Manila DFA getting the certified copies of the passports to send with the W-7 forms to Claudine for the 2010 taxes.

We are going back to Daet this morning sometime and I will reprint the W-7 form as the entered information printed out in blue ink (a light blue) and I am sure that they want it in black... plus I need to re-do Nora's because the information is from her old passport. Other than that, it should be a slow day.

This day used to hold significance for me, actually it did for 27 years but that all ended in 2006. I am happier where I am in my life now thank God.

From denny's iPad...

Document from My Writing Nook: May 23, 2011

May 23, 2011

Happy Birthday Kenneth... 17 today.

My gosh, time sure seems to fly, my compelling thought is a hope that he is still only 17 when he reaches the USA.

Sleep was fair, of course, Nora and I sleep in a single bed and compared to sleeping in my bed at home it is like laying on a 2x4. Oh well, at some point in the future I should be home with a new bed partner and children to tax my patience... and of course provide smiles to me for the rest of my days... You know, my goal is to live to 100 so I have a ripe old future in front of me... Hope to see you then.

Bye for now, maybe more later...

A rain storm passed thru, while all the Filipino guys were setting at a wooden table out in the yard by the chicken coop drinking a low grade brandy... amazing how fast they can move when threatened with a deluge of a downpour... I was not with them, drinking, at this time anyway, causes me too much pain...

We went to bed early and most of the afternoon I just read my books. Nora did go to Daet and bought a cake and ice cream for Kenneth though. It was good.

From denny's iPad...

Document from My Writing Nook: May 22, 2011

May 22, 2011

Today is Sunday, Nora and LiliBeth will be going to Daet this afternoon to shop a little I suppose, she offered for me to go but I gracefully declined and told her to make it a girls day out

I am reading and taking life easy, it is now 10:39 AM . More may follow...

We went to Daet, to the supermarket at the Central Plaza mall and after buying stuff for spaghetti, Nora and I parted, she went to downtown market to buy ground beef and a few other items and I went to Hotpots where I was surprised to see Maria and her daughter. We chatted some and I found that they had brought the Jeepster to town to have yet some more work done on it, evidently something yet to do with the braking system that they have spent much money on already...

I was able to finish updating my iPhone apps and it was not too long and Maria left for a bit and Nora showed up again. We went inside Hotpot to get a drink and Maria and her daughter came back so we all got to chat a little bit... she told me (Maria) that Wayne had called her and wanted to come into town so I suppose they were going to meet up soon. It was shortly after that that Nora and I left to come back home to Basud.

The rest of the afternoon I read and she preparred the Spaghetti for dinner... it was good... Tomorrow is Kenneth's 17th birthday so that is nice for him, we will go to Daet and buy him a cake and ice cream (seems the traditional way to celebrate a birthday here also... no gifts though I might give him some money.

Well that is enough for this day... have a great day!!!

From denny's iPad...

Document from My Writing Nook: May 21, 2011

May 21, 2011

Foot is feeling good now, decided that we would go to Daet and check our email and I would buy some new slippers that would stay on my feet.

Alex had asked if we wanted to join the family and go to the Ocean and frolic in the salt water, we declined and let them all go.

We left the house about 10:30 and went to Superliner where I purchased tickets to Marilao for Kenneth, Nora and myself. We will leave Basud on the eveing bus Tuesday.

We went to the internet cafe that we had used so often while I was here in Basud last year. I managed to print out the W-7 forms and the documentation that states we need certified or Notarized copies of Nora and the kids Passports. After that, she went to the supermarket to buy some items and then we returned to the mall and I bought some slippers that I liked.

After that, we went to Chow King for Halo Halo and she had some long jeans shortened and hemmed for Joyce to wear., she had to wait a couple hours for them to get done so I took a tri-cab back to Central mall and sat outside the 'HotPot' restaurant where they offer free WiFi and updated the apps on my iPhone.

When she arrived, we went inside the restaurant and had a quick bite then caught a tri-cab home.

The rest of the afternoon and evening was spent quietly (as quietly as it ever is in a house built for 4 people currently housing a minimum of 11. Interesting life here I can tell you that much...

We slept pretty well, at least I didn't have to deal with Nora's roving legs and fish flops...

From denny's iPad...

Document from My Writing Nook: May 20, 2011

May 20, 2011

Nora bought me some medication for the Gout, pain is subsiding nicely.

But I still stayed home and did nothing but read.

From denny's iPad...

Document from My Writing Nook: May 19, 2011

May 19, 2011

Gout has me bedridden... reading a lot.

From denny's iPad...

Document from My Writing Nook: May 18, 2011

May 18, 2011

River day. We had a great time... there will be pictures.

From denny's iPad...

Document from My Writing Nook: May 17, 2011

May 17, 2011

Well Tuesday for the most part proved to be an exercise in futility... we left the house early and took the bus to Angele city and then spent several hours locating the "Jim Boyd" foundation... nothing short of a rat infested hole in the wall run by a scabby guy about 65 or 70 years old who told us that he would only help us if he did our taxes also... What a total asshole.

We left there and headed to Clark DFA where the great abundance of bad news just re-manifested itself in larger proportions... they would not certify the passports for me and said only DFA in Manila would or could do that. I stopped at the Immigration division in Clark and they were of little or no use at all... Needless to say the stress levels were of Galactic proportions and Nora and I were not nice to each other.

We took the bus back to Manila and then Marilao. After getting home, we hurriedly packed, all of us, for the Basud trip and then headed downtown to the Superliner terminal... I bought tickets for everyone to the tune of over 2,800p (565p) for each of the five of us, baby rode for free. We rode on coach 409 which has suspension made of brick and mortar. Every bump or line was felt as a bone jarring experience and that continued for over 8 hours. The AC in the bus was so cold that ice crystals formed on the window frames... Lovely trip and not the first of it's kind that I have made.

We arrived in Daet and the highlight of the day was that Alex was there to pick us up in the van they had rented... nice trip to the house... We didn't get much chance to relax, went right away out to San Felepe to Wayne and Marias house for about 1 hour then back to Basud... We left the house at about 2:30 to go to the beach resort where the wedding was taking place at (supposedly 4pm). It was very warm and humid, here I am in tank top under a white shirt and dark slacks, socks and dress shoes... Had to stay that way till the wedding got under way about 5:30pm... I managed to drink one light beer and suffered Gout the next 3 days on account of it... I knew better too.

The wedding went off well, it was a small ceremony held right on the sand on the beach, I was the main sponser and Uncle edwin the 2nd sponser and then there were other sponsers for the veil, the rope and the treasure... (look up Filipino weddings for an explanation). After the wedding and the reception (meal) Maria wanted us to stick around but I had to tell her that we were just plain out of fuel and needed to go home and get some rest... she was disappointed but that is what happened.

We finally got home after a torturous ride in Uncle's jeep which has the same suspension as the bus, which considering the condition of the road has shortened my stature by about 2".

I was asleep before my head hit the pillow.

From denny's iPad...

Saturday, Sunday and Monday posting... sorry guys, I got busy and had a lot on our minds...

May 14 15 & 16, 2011

Saturday we went to the mall, Nora followed me in the afternoon, I left early to go to the internet cafe and print some information.

We saw the movie "Priest", don't waste your money...

Well Sunday was laundry day, nothing special about the day, we just stayed home and enjoyed the tropical bake.

It was budget day or Payday as Nora calls it so I gave her 7,000p

We slept pretty good last night, even though the majority of the day was spent talking about the problems that could possibly face the visa process, the taxes, the discrepency in Jimmys middle name and Nora's Taipei police clearance that she is worried might be out dated... I don't think that will be a problem as she has not left the country since obtaining it but then she has a good point as we don't know what the consular might want. Either way, we can get an affidavit about Jimmies middle name issue and if necessary can order yet another Taipei police clearance if need be... the worst that will happen is that it will push her departure date further away.

Nora left early today, she is taking the request for the marriage license and Death certificate to the NSO in Pasig which is quite a distance... then she is going to call the outfit about the ITIN numbers and after that check the bus schedule for trips to Angele city for tomorrow. So much stress, I see it in her face and eyes and it drives me crazy, Hopefully the things we will provide the consular will suffice and we can move forward.

Have a great day, Lollie I have tried to call you several times today starting about 5pm your time yet no answer from you.

From denny's iPad...

Friday the "13th"... boy did it ever live up to is's history today...

May 13 & 14, 2011

Thursday passed pretty normally, nothing special outside of my going to the Mall and printing out some more papers... Nora got home about 5pm, dinner etc... nothing special

Friday monring, we got up at 4am to get ready for the trip to the US Embassy and the Visa interview for the kids... Unfortunately, the Visa's were not granted as they still want a current tax year return which I need to provide and they also want couriered copies from the NSO of both Jimmy's death certificate and Jimmy and Nora's marriage license. Those two are easy, the taxes are a serious burden to me. I am investigating the ITIN numbers, we would have to go to Angelie city to get them applied for then it takes a long time to get them.

Anyway, after the let down, we went and had lunch then to St. Lukes clinic and then the market then home... it was a depressing day all in all and we went to bed with no smile on our faces...

Hopefully I can resolve this in a timely fashion, I am trying to.

From denny's iPad...

Thursday... Tomorrow is the big day...

May 12, 2011

I have to say, last night was just plain miserable to sleep, the humidity crept up to near 100% early in the evening and stayed there most of the night... talk about living in a damp sponge...

Perspective would be soaking an old dirty heavy quilt in warm stagnant water and then crawling under it anc covering your head... imagine if you can, the problems encountered in taking in a full breath of air, even dirty air. Very uncomfortable and I certainly did not enjoy it. Nora felt the same way so it was not an isolated incident.

We finally did manage to sleep, I think that there is a time in which exhaustion takes precedence and the body just basically gives up the fight and succumbs to weariness. I yearn for my home...

This morning, Nora and I went into Marilao so she could do some food shopping. We were back home by about 9:45am so now she will be preparing for lunch and her typical departure time of about 12:15pm.

Tomorrow morning will be an early riser, we will need to leave the house by about 5am to be at the US Embassy by 6:30am for the kids interviews. Today I will be going back to the SM Mall to print out the latest bank statement and cover page so that I can present the most current picture to the Consular at the interviews.

Nora had an unpleasant experience at the market with one of the vendor ladies, I wasn't there so didn't see what happened but suffice it to say that my little volcano was near the eruption stage... I bought her a doughnut and she calmed down a little... Sad that people in a position of service should have such attitudes... I always prided myself in being a very cordial customer service person when I worked in those positions...

I had a talk with Kenneth and explained to him how I was feeling about our relationship and what I hoped would happen regarding it in the future... he listened well and smiled when I finished and we shook hands etc. yada yada yada... hope it works out well.

Anyhew, have yourselves a dandy day and I will chat with you a little later on...

From denny's iPad...

Last 'Hump Day' at St. Luke for Nora I hope...

May 11, 2011

Yesterday was nice, when Nora got home from St. Lukes clinic, we went and put some fuel in the Motor of Alex and then went to Divine market to buy some Lumpia wrappers, of course there were other food items purchased also.

Back home, Nora prepared for dinner which we had about 6:45pm.

I was going to watch the movie "The Rite" with Anthony Hopkins, but the pirated versions sound was very low so I gave it up and came back to the sleeper room and read some more of my novels on the iPad.

This morning, Wednesday, we awoke or rather I should say that I awoke about 6am and then a little later roused Nora... she had not slept well, said she was dreaming of her Mother and sisters. She wanted to sleep but I had other plans for her.

After breakfast, she wanted to go make some Xerox copies of the forms from the NSO (the originals). We did that and now she is going thru the folders again...

It is hard to believe that by this time Friday the kids should have their Visas. I hope there is no problems. If there are any it will be about the I-864 regarding my taxes. I hope that the other paperwork I have provided will clear up any questions. The amount I put for household income is after taxes so it is not a true reflection of the income gross which is actually over 30k.

Lollie, the pictures you took were such a vast improvement on others that you sent in the past... it is amazing how just a little instruction can improve the end results... I was really impressed with the Macro shot of the red flower.

Have a great day, this is as they say, "Hump Day"...

From denny's iPad...

Tuesday... of the last week of treatment...

May 10, 2011

Well here we are in the 2nd day of the last week of Nora's year long treatment DOT. It has been a long time in coming.

Yesterday went well as I wrote, after Nora got back home and dinner had been accomplished, I went to the sleeper apt and bathed and then read while waiting for Nora to arrive...

She played her games on the iPad and checked the latest happenings on FB then we went to sleep... my gosh it was nice, so cool and refreshed feeling after the rains. We both slept well and didn't get out of bed until after 8:00am.

Finishing up breakfast now, eggs and toast sandwich and some coffee. Already did the meds so I am good for the day I think...

Last night, my glasses came apart on one side and the lens fell out so now I need to go to an eye glasses place and see if they will put them back together again... I have needed a new pair for over 4 years now, I suppose that will be a priority for me when we get back to the States amongst other things that I have neglected.

I am going back to the other apt. and see if I can reach Lollie this morning.

Have a great day everyone.

From denny's iPad...

NSO and visa photos...

May 09, 2011

Damn !!! really slept good last night, the storms that rolled thru dropped a lot of rain and the winds were typhoon style... it was great sleeping weather for sure.

Yesterday was primarily taken up with the laundry getting done and watching the stormy weather and reading in my iPhone or iPad.

Today, Kenneth and Joyce went with me after Nora had already gone (she went to NSO). We left at 9:30am, got to the Mall just as it opened and had the passport photos done by 10:40am... I then treated us to Dairy Queen Sundaes, something neither of the kids had ever had.

We had to wait a while for a Jeepney to get full before taking off for home. We arrived home about 11:15 so I was happy that we didn't suffer any delays.

This afternoon I spent a lot of time hanging up clothes that we couldn't hang yesterday then a shower came thru and take them down again then hang them up again... did this over and over but finally with the help of some pretty stiff winds, managed to get the clothes dryed.

Nora got home about 4:45 or so... my gosh she had a heck of a day, after getting to NSO and submitting her list of documents, she decided to go to St. Lukes clinic and then on the way back the busses managed to mess up and she got lost and then finally got back to NSO to pick up the finished forms... It was the bus conductor's fault as he said they could drop her at NSO but then drove right on by and wouldn't stop for her... needless to say she had some parting words for the driver and the conductor

Then to top it all off, at the NSO she was in line to pay for her documents and some snot nosed 20yr old kid crowded in front of her (not a smart move on his part...) Nora unleashed a galactic sized volcano of wrath on him and called into question his parentage and what ill fated school he might have attended... She is not shy when pissed off... better to not scramble her eggs...

I gave her 1,000p to give to Jenny, Father has sent the money but Jenny needed it today... Nora will repay me when she picks up the money from the bank

I gave Nora 2,000p for the documents and also paid 100p for the kids visa photos.

It is one reason I love her so dearly.

Have a great day y'all

From denny's iPad...

Hey all you Mommies... 'HAPPY MOTHERS DAY'...

May 08, 2011

Yesterday we went to the Mall, left here about 1:15pm and on the way to the mall, riding in the Jeepney, we came upon a big dump truck, a 10 wheeler that it appeared somebody on a scooter had tried to pass another vehicle and either the dump truck pulled out from a side road in front of him or he mis-judged the distance he had but in either cast the scooter was wedged in under the front right corner of the truck, just in front of the wheel. No body was evident nor any amount of blood but there should certainly have been a bucket full of poo... my gosh what a deal.

After arriving at SM Mall, we went to the theater and bought tickets to see "Fast and Furious 5". After that, we went to Chow King and had a couple of large Halo Halo desserts (we had wanted some ever since the really hot weather arrived. I finished mine and while Nora was working on hers, I left to go to the Department store and get something to munch on during the movie (she would meet me at the theater) I went to the department store and bought some energy bars (Nature Valley) and skittles and some Kit Kats then went to the theater where she arrived a short time later.

We watched the trailers of upcoming movies and saw some we want to see along with a billboard style advertisement outside the theater advertising the movie "Priest" which sure looks good then "Cars 2" will be coming sometime this summer (we might not be here for that but that would be fine with me).

After the Movie, we went to Pan de Manila and she bought some bread (we had also gotten two pizzas to take home for dinner (they had another buy one take one sale. We got back home about 6:30pm.

Nora and I both really enjoyed the movie, I was of course impressed to see both Vin Diesel and the Rock in the same movie as opposing forces... it was good, action filled and kept your attention too.

We slept pretty well last night after the Squatters entertained us with a couple of the women having a damn good cat fight. Never a dull moment it would seem. A pretty good storm came rolling thru as we were eating dinner last night, rained like hell and flooded part of the floor in our sleeper apartment... but it did cool it off some...

Today, Nora and Joyce Anne will attend the 10am mass at the Divine Mercy Chapel, I have decided to stay home.

Laundry day of course so you know that routine by now... Happy Mothers day to each of you Mommies out there.

Hope you liked your email sister.

Today is Nora's payday... 7,000p budget.

From denny's iPad...

Saturday morning...

May 07, 2011

Saturday morning, clear and hot... the temperature never did come down last night so sleeping was actually a chore and not much of it to be had...

Yesterday I went to the mall and printed out some new papers from Wells Fargo showing the increased savings account data and also was able to fill out an I-864 online with just a couple of blank spaces which I will hand fill in. Looks much more professional now.

I got some snack bags and some candy bars for the kids while I was there. I got back home around 2pm and Nora arrived at the bus stop at about 3:40pm.

The evening produced a gathering of folks to visit with Edhu who is here now from Quatar and Meden his wife... much beer drinking and reminicing. I did not partake, damn gout anyway. It sure looked inviting with the cold beer and all.

Last night Nora and I attacked a bag of 'Cool Ranch' Doritos, she really likes those chips.

Today it is our plan to go to the Mall and see the movie "Fast and Furious Five" with 'Van Diesel and 'The Rock, Duyane Johnson' two actors I favor for action movies. We have been fortunate to be able to see a show almost every weekend... it is cheap, only 110 or 120p per person per show.

Hopefully it will cool down a little this weekend, the forecast shows a little bit cooler Sunday and Monday.

Bye for now, Have a dandy day...

From denny's iPad...

Friday today... Next week is the end of DOT for Nora.

May 06, 2011

My Gosh !! Nora and the kids didn't get home until 8pm last night... they didn't even leave St. Lukes clinic until after 6:30.

The good news of course is that Kenneth and Joyce were released from St. Lukes clinic and now I only need them to make it thru the Visa interview with no problems... Nora has expressed concern about me not having available my 2010 tax returns... I tried to explain to her that I have filed an extension for them and won't file until this coming October.

The information I have gleened from the Internet says that they want the most recent tax return of the applicant and for me, that would be 2009 which I have. I believe that my supporting documentation from Wells Fargo will or should be sufficient to prove income as required by USCIS.

Alex and Ana were fighting yesterday and that led to Alex getting roaring drunk and then damaging his right hand (I've no idea how) with a couple of deep holes (puncture wounds). I tried to get him to go to the Doctor for some stitches but he was beyond reason.

Then he gloms onto me, telling me how sorry he is and blubbering like all drunks do. I was compasionate, but at the same time disgusted to see a friend/relative fall to that level... There are not now and have never been any solutions in a bottle. All it does is distort reality for a day. I am glad that the bottle has never been my recourse when times have been tough.

The deal with Alex ended up in the lane with him trying to drag Ana by the hair back to their apartment and she wanted to stay at her fathers house... Just a mess, and believe it or not, caused by what??? money of course... If you've read this blog before, you know that Alex is always borrowing money to float and support his lifestyle which to me appears very self-centered... Not the kind of thing a Father and husband should do. Neither of them has the ability to manage their money and always are borrowing to get by... too bad they don't get a grip on that situation.

I like Alex and his family and it pains me greatly to see them succumb to the money issues. They could solve it with a little self control and managing but it appears that living in the moment is their guiding light.

Today is Friday, Nora's last day of the week and next week is her last of going to St. Lukes clinic. We have waited a long year for this time and I rejoice in it as does Nora.

Took a late night bath and then was able to sleep much better but not to say good.

I will go to SM Mall today and print out the savings page and another copy of the I-864 and then put together the tax package. Hopefully the Counsoler will be satisfied.

It looks possible that Nora and the kids will be able to leave the Philippines in June rather than July.

Well, have a great day,

From denny's iPad...

Monday and Tuesday combined in this post... (I got lazy)...

May 03 & 04, 2011

Well on the 3rd, which was Monday, Nora and I went to the US Embassy and paid for the Visa interviews for both Joyce and Kenneth to the tune of $808.00 (we had already paid $840 for the applications). That done, we then went to Jolliebee for a late breakfast.

After that, we went to St. Lukes clinic so Nora could do her DOT thing then to the supermarket to do the shopping that we needed to do.

Home then and piddeled away the remainder of the day, We had spaghetti for dinner... weather was very hot and sleeping difficult.

•--•

Tuesday morning, Nora and the kids went to St. Lukes clinic to get their physicals re done, it went good for them and all the need to do now is go back on thursday for the results and to be released by St. Lukes clinic. I gave her 18,000.00p to pay for the Medical.

The great finale will be May 13th at 06:30am at the US Embassy where they will go to their Visa Interview.

I spent the day here at home, basically reading and taking an occasional walk to the end of the lane then back here to the apt. Boring to be sure. Spaghetti again for dinner but sleeping was a little better as it had cooled off somewhat.

The man from RemitHome delivered the money (extra for the physicals etc...) about 5:15pm which is his normal arrival time here.

Well, that sums up those two days, today is just beginning, (it rained sometime last night) so we will see how the day goes.

From denny's iPad...

Visa interviews for the kids... paid for and on schedule for the 13th... Medical starts tomorrow

May 02, 2011

We slept last night, Nora woke up early, about 5:45am. We left the house at 07:00am to go to the US Embassy and pay for the Visa interviews for Joyce and Kenneth... When we got to the Embassy, we were pleasantly surprised by how few people were there. Paying for the Visa interviews came off without a hitch and I thanked those who helped us today and those who helped us in the past.

After that, we went to Jollliebee for Fries and breakfast for Nora. Then it was off to St. Lukes clinic. After St. Lukes clinic, we went to the market and dumped about 1,500p on groceries and food... Nora considers groceries such things as soap, deoderant, shampoo etc.

We then caught a bus back home it is now 12:59 PM and we've been home for about 1/2 hour.

Nothing else to do today, I paid the Embassy $808. for the two interviews. Either tomorrow or Wednesday, whenever the transfer from LinnCo shows up on my Wells account, I will go back to the Internet Cafe and reprint the savings page to reflect the increased amount.

Nora and the kids will go to St. Lukes clinic tomorrow to begin the two day re-medical process... they should be done Wednesday, Thursday at the latest.

Tonight I will give Nora 18.000p to pay for the kids physicals (re-medical).

From denny's iPad...

May day, my gosh, where did April go anyway??

May 01, 2011

Wow, I cannot believe that this is the Month of May already... by the end of this month, I will have been living here for 9 months... over 13 months total.

Nora finishes with St. Lukes clinic this month, either on the 14th or on the 16th. The kids have their Visa interviews on the 13th and we will leave for Basud the week of the 16th. Gonna be a busy month for sure.

Yesterday, I left here for the Mall at about 10:30am... I wanted to go there to get on the internet and print out the financial papers I needed from Wells Fargo and LinnCo, unfortunately I didn't have the right password for the LinnCo account so I couldn't log in and get the papers I wanted...

I went to the theater and bought tickets for the movie "Thor" and then went to the internet cafe. After I finished on the internet, I went down to the National bookstore and bought 3 folders to contain the packages for all three, Nora, Joyce and Kenneth and then to the coffee shop kiosk and assembled the various forms and filled out the I-864 form.

Nora met me about 2pm and we went to Jollibee's for lunch (rather late but she was famished and I was hungry too.)... After that we returned to the National Bookstore because Nora didn't like the size of folders that I got so we got legal sized ones.

Nora's Aunt Red is visiting so she decided not to go to church and then today also is Laundry day so we will remain busy... I took a bath then stripped the bed and carried the dirty clothes out to the lady who does the laundry.

Today is budget day for Nora so I will give her her weekly amount of 7,000p.

Tomorrow I will go with Nora to St. Lukes clinic but the first thing we will do is pay for the Visa Interviews.

From denny's iPad...

End of yet another Month... May will be exciting for us...

Apr 30, 2011

The remainders of yesterday were actually uneventful, Nora went to St. Lukes clinic and upon her return, she made a trip to the market with Loren to pick up stuff for dinner.

One thing did happen and I really got upset at everyone about it and that was when Nora was hurrying from the living room to the kitchen and slipped on a section of wet floor that everyone had ignored or at least not seen... she fell and of course dropped the plate she was carrying... Needless to say it scared the holy shi@ out of me and I did not notice anyone getting up to see what had happened to her and that fact alone pissed me off beyond belief... I unleashed the fury of 1,000 demons on the children for not making sure that they wiped up spills on the slick floor and then I beat the hell out of them with a guilt club for not getting up off their dead asses to see what had happened to their mom... I was a force to be contended with at that particular moment.

Luckily, she did not injure herself, but Lord how it scared me. After I cooled off, about 15 minutes, I apologized to each of the children while at the same time reinforcing the fact that they must make sure that liquids are wiped dry from the floor because the linoleum covering it, when wet, is like oil. I also explained to them that I would have been just as upset if it had happened to any of them and further told them that I love them and don't want anyone of them hurt due to the lax way that cleanup is performed... No crow was eaten by yours truly, just a calm and rational explanation was offered in the wake of the nuclear detonation that was my anger and a result of having years added to my already ancient frame. All is well now, but I assure you, they got the message loud and clear...

We slept very well last night even though it was hot, once you finally do go to sleep it isn't so noticeable...

We will be going to the Mall today, "Thor" is playing and I want to see that plus I need to print some information for the I-864 form, from Wells Fargo and LinnCo to help substantiate my ability to support my newly acquired family...

Have a wonderful day, each of you !!

From denny's iPad...

Friday... not many left before we hopefully will leave here.

Apr 29, 2011

Yesterday, we left the house about 11:30 to go to St. Lukes clinic and then meet with Wayne and Maria at their Hotel... we got to St. Lukes clinic and Nora was in and out quickly then began the trip to Makati/Pasig to get to the hotel of Maria and Wayne. Two Jeepney rides and a lot of exhaust smoke later we finally arrived.

Nora and I looked for them, but couldn't locate them so Nora Text'd Maria where are you and they had gone to the 'Hard Rock café' in Makati and said that they would be back in about 1 1/2 hrs. We decided to walk down to McDonald's and grab a snack as we thought we would be going to dinner with them. I tell you something, Pasig is very crowded area and the temperatures were soaring, close to 100˚ and so very crowded.

After we lunched a little at McDonald's, we Text'd them again and they said they were back at the hotel. We walked back and eventually found them. Maria looked good and Wayne has dropped 25lbs. I also found out that he got fired by Cascade Express because of an attitude but knowing Wayne, they probably deserved whatever attitude he gave them... He has a lot of money in the bank so is going to take a sabbatical from work for about 6 months and do some of the things he and Maria have always wanted to do.

We got to meet Marias daughter, from Hong Kong and her son Reuben who they have been trying to get to the States for 6 years now... both really nice people and I was quite pleased to make their acquaintence.

Nora and Maria stayed outside and chatted for most of the time we were with them, Wayne and I went into their hotel room which thankfully had A/C.

Maria bought a 14 passenger Jeepney, I belive a '94 vintage but obviously well kept by the owner... that is what they will travel to San Felipe in when they left. We visited with them for about an hour and a half then they loaded up the Jeepney and we said good bye and each went their own ways, Nora and I back to Marilao and Wayne, Maria, daughter, son and driver on their way South to Bicol.

We took the train back to Manila and then walked to the bus depot where we waited for an AC bus to take us home. We rode the bus into Divine and got off to buy some stuff for dinner, I decided to buy two broasted chickens as Nora didn't feel like cooking. From there, we went home, spent a quiet night and tried to get some sleep.

We woke this morning to people outside our bedroom window chatting and having a good time... 6:30 in the freaking morning... why they chose that location to chatter so early is beyond me. It will be another scorching day today but it is Nora's last day at St. Lukes clinic this week so that is good.

I received a email from RemitHome that 'money has been sent' so it will arrive here this afternoon.

••• RemitHome arrived about 4:30 with the money I transferred from my bank for Nora...

Hope you enjoyed the pictures Sis. Have a great day !!!

From denny's iPad...

Maria and Wayne arrived last night late.. we hope to have dinner with them tonight.

Apr 28, 2011

Heat permeated the area yesterday, hitting a high of 97˚ and 77% humidity. Not bad weather... if you are a clam. For people like me, the day was miserable with no escape available... fans that were running were more like a blast furnace. Then, to top it off, I got invaded by a roque squadron of man eating ants, little guys, sorta like pygmy ants I think... but they have alligator teeth... I managed to evade most of them and after Nora got home from Manila, we went to Divine and I bought a can of Annihilation spray with which to douse them with... it was a grand time.

The last little ant standing, placed his little front leg on his abdomen, stared me straight in the eye and squealed in a high pitched voice.. "We'll be Back"... Arnold I believe may have been his name.

Well, believe it or not, Nora only has two more Wednesdays to traipse off to Manila for DOT. (barring of course any...) but I do have faith that it will all turn out well.

Kenneth and Joyce will go this coming Tuesday and Wednesday to do their re-medical. It takes two days to complete so they should be in great shape by the weekend then the following Friday, the 13th (God forbid) they go to the US Embassy at 6:30am for their Visa interviews... Nora will attend with them as she is the parent and from all I have read it is a very quick and simple process...

This weekend, I will fill out the I-864 forms for everyone and compile and print out the proof of income needed to substantiate my ability to support them.

I took a late night shower last night which helped with the comfort of an already overwarm night. It never did get much below 80˚ last night so we didn't even use the sheet until about 5am or so.

This morning I am happy, hot... but happy all the same.

Hope you all have a great day.

From denny's iPad...

Today is 'Hump' day again... only a couple of those left and Nora is done.

Apr 27, 2011

Wow... Sweltering would be a relief compared to the temperatures of yesterday, Hotttest day so far this year and much more to come. Sleeping only came after getting up at 10:30pm and showering again to remove the sweat film from my body... Nora complained also of being too hot so I finally convinced her to sleep only in her shirt and panties rather than shorts... It's not much but it helps.

Nora asked me this morning while we were waking up if I still Loved her... Made me realize that I have been slipping backwards, especially with the arrival of the hot weather... I tried to explain to her that even though I may get angry with her, it in no way diminishes my love for her... Problem with that logic is that people most closely relate to how you treat them, not how you feel about them. I am once again shifting course in my attitude and taking inventory of my thoughts and actions with the intent of purging those that threaten my and Nora's happiness. I also told her that I appreciate her telling me that I am not being good or that my actions cause her to question my love... It is a stark reminder of how easy it is to become complacent in our actions to one another...

"Familiarity breeds contempt", I don't know who said it, but the way I interpret it is if you become too completely comfortable in any relationship, you start taking things for granted and lose the desire to keep impressing the person... not a good situation for anyone in love to be in and it is a situation that I am trying to avoid like the plague. I Love my new wife and family and am ever thankful for them and will do and sacrifice to any end to keep them and keep them happy.

God was so good to me to provide me with an ideal family and a chance to re-discover happiness... In no way to I plan to Jeopardize that gift.

I will be staying at home today and Nora will be going to another of the "FEW" remaining trips she makes to Manila and St. Lukes clinic.

It was 96˚ yesterday at about 4:30pm with high humidity... it is probably going to be the same or hotter today...

Have a great day and cherish those you love for the love they give you is a gift beyond compare...

••• Nora came to me and said Ate Linda wanted to borrow 1,800p again this month as LiliBeth had not yet sent them money... so I will collect the rent from the Neighbor again on the 10th of May.

From denny's iPad...

The Kids have their Visa Interview appts... 13 May

Apr 26, 2011

Sorry this post is so late, We went to Manila today, Nora and I and we nt to the US Embassy and after that we went to an Internet cafe and made Visa Interview appointments for Joyce and Kenneth for 06:30am on the 13th of May. I want them to get their re-medical started on the first week of May so that will be out of the way.

It was a difficult day, the lady at Immigration is really mal-positioned as a customer service rep... she has the temperment to be a street sweeper but dealing with the frustration of the public is not something suited to her. I haven't liked her since first meeting her two times ago. According to the label I gave her, she should be sleeping under the porch and wear a leash.

We had some breakfast at Jolliebee before hitting the internet cafe, while I was online, Nora took care of her St. Lukes clinic appt as it was only a block away.

After that, we went to a bakery where Nora of course had to buy a sweet cake... she has a serious and I mean SERIOUS sweetooth.

I was able to print out the confirmation sheets for the Visa appts for the kids so that is done now... Sadly, it is going to cost me another $1,212.00 to get the Visas...

I am glad that I have not kept strict track of all the money spent here in the effort to bring my family to the States... Had I done that, I likely would have given up a long time ago...

Have a great day, mine is rather sucky at the moment... It always gets better though so have no fear, the 'bounce back kid' will be back shortly...

From denny's iPad...

More Monday... not many left to go to St. luke for Nora...

Apr 25, 2011

Well only 5 days left in the month... it sure seems to have flown by quickly.

We had a good time yesterday even at getting up at 3:30am to get ready to go to church... Sadly, we had to stand during the entire service as there was no chairs available seating... even all the little stools were gone. It was a neat service and watching the sunrise was nice too. "He is Risen".

Then we went thru the market and Nora purchased some things for breakfast and such, Joyce did go with us so that was nice.

The day was pretty uneventful other than that... it was a long day though. Last night at 8pm I gave Nora an Ambien and she slept like a log... I slept good too.

Kenneth and the Alex crew didn't get back from the river part until after 10pm and he told me that they had a really great time...

As it is Monday, Nora starts another week of treatment, her time left is now 3 weeks and the last day is 16 May... Exciting that it is so close now...

Maria and Wayne should be here tomorrow night if I am correct. I have Text'd her a number of times and she seems very excited... I believe they will stay in Manila for 2 days but not positive of that fact.

••• Well can you believe it, we just got the letters from the US Embassy in Manila to make our Visa interview appointments... Nora and I will go to the Embassy tomorrow and request them for Kenneth and Joyce then we will get their medical done next week.

Nora just came to me and said that Ate Linda needs to borrow 1,800p again until our neighbor pays rent again on the 10th of May.

What the hell will all these people do when I am gone I wonder and what did they do before I came here??? From denny's iPad...

Sunday, the end of 'Holy Week' here in the Philippines... interesting time.

Apr 24, 2011

Well, as I am writing this, it is 3:20am on Sunday Morning. We will attend the Mass at 4:30, as it stands now, Nora and I and Joyce... Jenny will stay home and care for the baby and Kenneth...

We left for the mall a little after lunch time, on the way to catch the Jeepney to the Mall, we encountered Jenny and the baby on the way back from the hospital pediatric Dr. Nora and Joyce stayed to talk to Jenny and I walked on up to the intersection to wait for them. about 10 minutes later they arrived.

The three of us rode a tricycle cab to Marilao where Nora was going to purchase the medicine prescribed by the Dr. for the baby and then catch up to Joyce and I at the Mall at Jollibee's.

Joyce and I continued on to the Mall and once there, I treated her and I to an ice cream cone from Dairy Queen, she had never had one before and I got her the chocolate dipped one. She seemed to really enjoy it a lot. From there, we went to Jollibee's and I had an order of fries, she had nothing as she was not hungry.

We waited there for Nora over an hour but she finally appeared and then we decided to see what restaurant Nora would like to have her birthday lunch at... She ended up choosing Max's and I must admit it is a nice place and they enjoyed their meal, I chose to have a club sandwich and some mushroom soup. The soup was really good... the sandwich lived down to my expectations. I have yet to have a good sandwich in the Philippines. We also had a picture of iced tea and that was actually good. The food was great for filipino folks, but nothing resembling what we would consider 'good' in the USA I suppose. That is only my opinion folks, each must judge by their own taste buds... But let me give a little insight... the main course of what Nora and Joyce had (joyce ommitted the main course) It consisted of vegetable soup and tripe... yep, that is what I said... TRIPE. The stomach of a water buffalo (actually I believe it says that Tripe is the second stomach... did you really want to know that much...???

After Lunch, Nora and Joyce went to "Hypermart" and did the grocery shopping whilst I waited sitting on the steps of the stairs leading to the 2nd level.(many sit there). When they finished there, they left me the bags to watch and they headed off to Watkins drugs to buy Joyce some medicine for her cold and Nora then went to "Pan de Manila" the bakery that we buy bread from when at the mall.

We then proceeded home, and I here to the Apt to do some much needed reading. No nap though...

Nora has decided not to bath this morning, I told her she smelled like a water buffalo but she seems to dispute that issue. Actually she does not have any lingering body odor, ever that I have noticed. And I must admit she is one of the cleanest people I have ever been around.

It is 3:41 AM now and she is of course laying here in the bed doing what else??? FaceBook... If you think that I jest about her being addicted, wait till you meet her. You will see.

Jenny ended up owing me 1,000p. I also gave Nora an additional 500p to help compensate for the two Pizza's that she bought for Alex's family and the boys in the back... traditional birthday here is that the birthday person gives to everyone else, just the opposite of what we do in America... I like our traditional custom better.

Have a great day, not long and we will traipse on to church to give the good Lord his due..

From denny's iPad...

Nora's birthday today...a landmark of sorts as she is now "Over the Hill"...

Apr 23, 2011

H•A•P•P•Y B•I•R•T•H•D•A•Y Well today is the 40th for my lovely wife Nora, she certainly does NOT look her age. I am so lucky to have such a pretty wife...

Sorry about not writing anything further yesterday, I thought perhaps I would, but the day did not really amount to much, certainly nothing happened that got my creative juices flowing.

We plan a trip to SM Mall to help Nora celebrate her birthday, a Lunch I believe for her then I will buy a cake to bring home that we can have. I am unable to provide the kind of party I would like for her while over here but at least we are together and hopefully this will be the last one she spends here.

It was hot all night last night so we did not get any restful sleep to speak of. The fan, our only source of cooling the room was blowing tepid warm air all night. I hope that Ed and Bonnie are enjoying their stay with Lollie and Gareth... I am pretty sure they are.

Just finished my coffee so hopefully the day will be good.

••• Nora reminded me that her budget was due yesterday so I gave her the 7,000p for the week.

••• Jenny just came to me to borrow 700p so she can take baby denny to the doctor.  Usually it is Nora that asks, but she tells me that she wants Jenny to assume the responsibility of the debt rather than her.  I don't understand the reasoning of that as the money all comes from me.  Jenny will ask Father to send money to help pay me back... but I doubt that I will ever see any of it

Jenny actually borrowed 1,000p which includes the Dr. visit and the meds required by the baby...

From denny's iPad...

This is Friday, it will be Holy week until Sunday is done... very busy here in philippines.

Apr 22, 2011

We did not leave the house yesterday, the traffic would have been horrible what with folks going to Divine and also to Santa Maria and the Groto church there. Did a lot of reading which seems to be my best pastime anymore. Nora made chicken for dinner and that was good, I am needing to lose some weight so am cutting back on the snacky stuff and pop.

Sleep was pretty good as it was again cooler at night.

Nothing of any interest happened so I don't really have much to write at this time. We woke up when the boys opened the steel door to the warehouse at about 5:30am. Nora got coffee for us about 7am.

I am trying to watch the movie 'Shooter' with Mark Wahlberg but cannot hear it with all the outside noises... I will try later on.

Nothing for breakfast yet, but Joyce will likely make some toast and fried eggs.

I will try to append this days journal.

From denny's iPad...

Today is Thursday here in the philippines... just another day.

Apr 21, 2011

The remainder of yesterday was in a word, mundane... nothing of any interest happened but I did start another book, this one is set in the time frame of the Norman and Saxon wars around 1200bc. I've not read much in that time frame so this is interesting to me....

Nora once again changed her mind... she went from wanting to celebrate her birthday at the mall with a dinner for the children to wanting to cook food here and invite her cousins from Malabon and Manila to come and last night she told me she wants to do the mall thing... I reminded her that time is running short and that she needed to settle on one or the other... she told me the Mall so that is what we will do... she needs to write to her cousins and cancel the other.

Today should prove uneventful also... it will be hot, there will be sweat, and ants.... and those stinking little flies...

Sleep was pretty good last night as the temperature dipped before we retired so that was nice... it is relatively cool this morning with a light breeze but that does not last... the heat comes whether the sun makes an appearance or not.

I ordered the money from RemitHome the day before yesterday... they should start the transaction on the 25th.

Perhaps more will come later... Ed and Bonnie should appear at Lollie's place either yesterday evening or today. I would sure like to see them.

From denny's iPad...

Wednesday and the beginning of a 5 day vacation for Nora from St. Luke.

Apr 20, 2011

Well, yesterday Nora and I went to the mall, at her request, and I wanted to go also because I wanted to buy her birthday gift, which I let her pick out... two nice summer dresses so she will have something nice to wear to church. I like her choices, perhaps I will take a picture of them and post to facebook...

Sleeping was difficult because of the heat, it really never did cool off so it was uncomfortable most all the night.

At the mall, I bought us (her first) banana splits at the newly opened Dairy Queen. They have the same great soft ice cream that I came to love in the USA. Nora really liked the banana split. We then went to pick out her dresses, I bought her two of them and after that, I wanted some Jolliebee french fries so we went there.

We wandered around for about and hour or so and then decided to come back home. The ride home was miserable because of the immense traffic during 'Holy week' and people going to Divine Mercy Catholic church (which is the one we go to).

Nora shopped some at the market in Marilao before we finally made it home.

No response yet from Kenneth, I am not sure he has had the time or availability of either the iPad or iPhone to read his mail. Nora told me that his responce will likely be 'Sorry Dad' and that will be the extent of the verbal communications... I pray that we can develope a more meaningful communication over time though.

Nothing is planned for today, Nora is making some rice cereal for breakfast now.

We had a lengthy discussion about my views on religion and churches and how they interact and have become so terribly commercialized and actually corrupt in many cases... I belive in God and that Jesus saved me and the 10 commandments. What the churches add is not always in accordance with my beliefs... I also am a firm believer that Karma should be our ruling guidance... I read once in a book about witches (specifically Wiccan) witches which are not dark ones that their theory is "Do as you will if it hurts no one". Not a bad guide, too bad more people aren't Wiccans I guess.

Well "Hump" day it is, but thankfully, Nora is finished at St. Lukes clinic for the week and has a 5 day weekend so is 5 days off her DOT trips to Manila... Thanks to God for that.

Hope you all have a great day...

From denny's iPad...

Last of the "Sputum" tests should be today according to St. Lukes.

Apr 19, 2011

Well, falling asleep last night was difficult, very warm and sticky, I actually took another bath at about 10pm just to get a fresher feeling in the sheets. That did help and once asleep, I slept well as did Nora.

We both woke before the appointed 5:30am alarm had a chance to attack our hearing.

I sent a chat to Kenneth, but he hasn't seen it yet I don't believe. I am going to write him a letter, I am fairly good at using email and letters to get my point across and it will give him something to think about... No threats or anything close to that, just expectations and hopes for our Father/Son relationship and the promise of much in the line of opportunity for him in the States.

I decided not to go to the Embassy today, Holy week really disrupts schedules so I thought that maybe next week would be better. Today is the last of Nora's sputum tests... she told me she was going to Quiapo after St. Lukes clinic so she may be a little later getting back home.

We talked last night about her upcoming birthday and the fact that we really won't be able to make a swim party as planned as Alex and his family have different plans. She asked me if it would be OK if we just celebrate her birthday at the SM Mall and have a nice dinner there and of course I said that whatever she wanted to do would be fine with me. I also plan to buy her the two dresses she really likes so that should make her happy too.

I told her last night that I am going to go back to the United States towards the end of June, perhaps about 2 weeks before she would be coming... that will give me time to make sure the house is in order and allow me to purchase some things food wise that we don't currently have and I can get the vehicles running, batteries charged, utilities turned on and all that stuff. Plus I will be able to rent a van Locally to take to Portland to pick them up when they arrive.

She seemed receptive to the idea, but I know that the closer it comes to me leaving, her efforts to convince me to stay will become stronger.

I ordered the May budget last night, it will begin processing on the 25th. Same amount as last time.

Well, I hope you all have a wonderful day...

From denny's iPad...

It is your day to howl Sister... have a great one...

Apr 18, 2011

H•A•P•P•Y B•I•R•T•H•D•A•Y To the greatest Sister in the world and my closest friend. I hope your day is wonderful.

Wow, it was hot yesterday afternoon, Nora and Joyce went to afternoon Mass, about 5:00pm. I did not go, just too hot for me so I stayed home.

After getting home, Nora began to prepare our 'Ghoulash' dinner which I must say, excluding the poor quality of ground beef, was pretty darn tasty.

The evening was mostly spent reading by me and games by Nora. We retired a little after ten with only enough energy to try to endure the stiffeling temperatures... I slept all night with nothing covering me and found that this morning, about 3am, Nora had pulled the sheet over herself. I got up about 4:15 to use the bathroom and when I got back to bed, covered my lower torso with the sheet, but it was still too hot to cover all the way up. I miss home, AC and McDonald's coffee.

Nora starts her final sputum test today and finishes tomorrow. I think I might go with her tomorrow so that I can check the status of our I-230 request at the US Embassy. It should have arrived or soon arrive in the mail but the waiting is killing me.

Another scorcher is predicted for today so that is nothing joyful to look forward to... I have to be thankful though, last year at this time the temperatures were mostly above 100˚ with horrid humididy, this year not nearly so bad but still... bad enough.

I've no particular plans, I went to the little store on the corner that sells the water we drink, (they have a small cafe there too) and wanted to buy some rice cereal for the baby, but they had just opened and it was not ready... I tried another little alley store close to the house but they had not opened yet either... it is now 6:50 AM .

I may write more later, Nora will be home much earlier today and that will be nice.

To all who read this, I hope your weekend was wonderful and hope that I see you in the near future...

Ana came to me this morning and borrowed 2,000p. To be paid back this afternoon when Alex returns from Santa Maria.

I told Alex that Ana borrowed the money and he paid me back... I don't think he was too pleased.

From denny's iPad...

Church this morning, Laundry for the remainer of the day...

Apr 17, 2011

Today is Sunday and if Lollie were here, in the Philippines, it would be her birthday. I will send her an eCard today to celebrate that wonderful day for her.

Yesterday Nora and I went to the SM Mall and I bought us tickets to see "Rio". I can honestly say she really did enjoy the movie, she was laughing thruout the whole show and it was good to see that it was one she really did enjoy. She had told me some time ago that she did not like annimation films... her memories of them were much older though, the animation of 20+ years ago vice the wonderous capabilities of Steven Spielberg and Disney and Pixar productions... we will see all that come here now I am sure, She wants to look in Manila to see if she can buy a DVD of it so the children can watch it too.

We slept well after finally overcoming the heat and allowing exhaustion to take control, I read until after midnight again. Thought I might get lucky this morning, but no lottery ticket for me.

Alex did repay me the 2,000p yesterday later on.

We are having coffee just now and will go to Mass a little later, the laundry lady is here starting the laundry so the remainder of Sunday will be spent toiling with clothes and such.

I hope you have a wonderful day and enjoy yourselves.

From denny's iPad...

The beginning of the 'Weekend', next week will be special for Nora (short too !!)

Apr 16, 2011

Ah, a glorious Saturday morning greeted us as we woke about 6:30am. For some inexplicable reason, Nora woke early today and was full of piss and vinegar and raring to go. She seems in a good mood which is always a nice note to start the day. We will go to SM Mall today, probably between 11 and 12. I hope to attend the movie 'Rio' with her today.

I am at the main apartment, the baby and Jenny just got back to the house and of course the baby cried... I want so badly to be away from him for awhile, the constant crying and worse being exposed to it every single day is not a routine that I've enjoyed. There was a reason I didn't want to have children (clarify that to say baby). I never have like their incessent crying and the annoying screeches that they make on a regular basis... Oh well, I do love him, just not the things he does.

Last night was peaceful, Nora went to sleep about 10:30 and I continued to read until after midnight. When I bathed last night, I shaved so I should at least appear better now...

Kenneth has worked every day this week for Alex in the cookie factory, there were a few rough times getting him to realize that Alex was depending on him to do a job and to be there when he was supposed to be. Now it seems that he is in the routine.

Alex did not repay me the 2,000p yet, maybe today or tonight after We return from the Mall he will. As the time approaches for us to leave the Philippines, I will be more reluctant to loan him money and that is at the urging of Nora.

From denny's iPad...

Friday, ah the sweetness of the coming weekend in intoxicating...

Apr 15, 2011

Today is Nora's payday, and it has the added benefit of being once again Friday... the end of treatment trips for another week and another week closer to the end of that torturious year long ordeal... What a price to pay for freedom, though less than many have paid, still an inconvenience for sure.

Yesterday after breakfast I had a great call with Lollie and Gareth, I sure do enjoy the ability to talk to them live every day almost. I quietly thank YM Messenger for that ability... certainly not AT&T as they want your soul and first born to make overseas calls.

I am enjoying a cup of coffee as I pen this entry (I suppose, in the name of political correctness I should say "Keyboard"). But... 'Penned' works nicely for me. Nora wanted to give me cake for breakfast and I told her no and asked why in the world she bought it in the first place... Her response -- "It was on sale". WoMeN !!!

Tomorrow we go to SM Mall, my feet being in good shape that will be a good trip, we will go to the 2:40pm showing of Rio at theater 4. I asked Nora if she wanted to take the kids and she said no. I don't know why though.

Next week, she only goes to St. Lukes clinic Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and then has Thursday and Friday off... Nice to have a 4 day weekend. Monday and Tuesday she will do her final Sputum test then we wait for the results, and that will take about 2 months they say although a culture grows in only 30 days... the reason given me the first time was that it took an additional month to determine what treatment was most effective... Nora just told me that it takes two months because they want to be sure that it won't grow a positive in waiting longer... two months with no Positive growth is considered a Negative.

Alex borrowed 2,000p again today, to be repaid tomorrow he says.

I am going to Divine this morning and get a haircut, my neck looks like I am becoming a WereWolf...

Have a Great Thursday to those in the States...

I might write more later...

From denny's iPad... (my demented mind)

Thursday, just another day...

Apr 14, 2011

Sleep was good.

Yesterday Kenneth decided to work for Alex in the cookie factory, I don't know for how long. I gave him his phone back late yesterday afternoon with the warning to use it only after work. I hope he listens, it is an important lesson to learn, that of seperating work and play.

I went to pick up Nora yesterday afternoon, about 3:30 and when she arrived, we went into Divine to pick up some stuff for dinner.

The evening was pretty quiet again, nothing exciting happened.

Today is Thursday here in Marilao and Nora will go once again to the St. Lukes clinic for her treatment. Then it will be Friday.

From denny's iPad...
(my demented mind)

Hump day...

Apr 13, 2011

Sleep was good, we both retired with a big smile on our faces... sometimes life really is just plain great!! I downloaded the latest version of 'FaceBook' to Nora's iPhone and she likes it so that is a good thing.

Alex did not pay me last night, but this morning first thing he brought me the 10,000p he owed me. We are once again even up.

This morning, about 6:00am the turkey came sqwaking and woke us, then about 5 minutes later 3,452,567 children were yelling and playing in the field just outside our window so the day started with a bang and has since gotten louder.

I am having my coffee now, thinking about the email I got from Wells Fargo where they tell me that they have debited my 'Travel' account a $15,00 service fee (the account only has $50.00 in it), they did it last month and I sent them a letter demanding that it be returned which they did so this time I shall send the letter to them again and I must ask them what I have to do to avoid that recurring fee... I just happened for the first time last month and never ever before so I don't know what bank policy has changed but I won't stand for it.

Today is Wednesday, fondly known as 'Hump' day and even though I tried to convince Nora that that meant it was a nationally acclaimed day where one Mate could 'hump' the other, she wasn't buying it. Sometimes a guy just can't cut a break. ;-)

Everything went well for Kenneth today, he got his clearance from Marilao and also his NBI clearance so he is set to go.

The day is up and running so I suppose I had better get my butt in gear and see what is shakin.

Maybe I will write more later...

From denny's iPad...
(my demented mind)

Tuesday, Kenneth gets his police clearance and NBI clearance today.

Apr 12, 2011

Well, this morning, Kenneth will go to the Police Station in Marilao, get his local police clearance and also his NBI clearance for travel to the United States. Joyce is fortunate, being 13 she is not yet required such clearances.

Nora will go again to Manila today and also to the Quiapo Catholic church (the oldest Catholic church in Manila). She goes there occasionally.

I have no plans in particular today, I might go to Divine and wander around the hardware store a little, it is pretty small, about the size of your bedroom Lollie.

Other than that, the day should prove quite ordinary... Bong, our neighorhood store owners son, and wife and child are moving away to another province where they take care of one of the family farms... actually a city block in America would be considered a large farm...

I see that last night he sprained his arm while playing basketball with the younger guys....

We slept very nicely last night as the weather did cooperate with us.

Alex came to me yesterday morning and needed some financial assistance to purchase suppies for a new and larger order... He borrowed from me 15,000p to be paid back today.

••• As I thought, Alex had an issue come up with the person who was going to give him money (emergency meeting) and so Alex was unable to pay me the 15,000p, he did give me 5,000p and says he will pay the remaining 10,000p tonight.  We shall see... It is always the case, where money is concerned it is like Oregon weather, totally unpredictable but always expect rain.

Always have faith that the "Unexpected" will occur, "Murphy's Law" is never in absentia...

Have a wonderful day and make something good happen...

From denny's iPad... (my demented mind)

Monday... another step forward and another less to spend here...

Apr 11, 2011

Well, it is Monday morning, I wonder what the day will bring aside from Kenneth going to get his Barangay clearance... Another week closer to Nora finishing her treatment and us leaving this country for the United States... gosh that is exciting to me for sure...

Weather is the same, a little cloudy and hot and projected to get into the 90˚ again. Hopefully the humidity will be managable.

No contact with Lollie yesterday, I hope they had a good Friday. I will call her today and see if they were able to make it to church of if they missed.

We are having coffee at the moment, the baby is eating rice cereal and I am taking Nora to the little roadside restaurant for breakfast this morning. They are enjoying something on TV this morning, of course I am in the dark as always cause it is in Tagalog but no matter, their television standards are so far behind our in the USA they have no idea what good broadcast TV is like especially with the choices we have available there.

Both feet are feeling 100% better now and the swelling on my left foot is almost completely gone now I figure it will be back to normal in 1 or 2 more days...

I will write more later perhaps... we shall see, won't we??

From denny's iPad...
(my demented mind)

Ah, laundry day and the last day of the week... tomorrow continues the trek

Apr 10, 2011

Nora left yesterday about 2:30pm and went to Marilao and then to the SM Mall where she got some personal items and also our weekly supply of Cheetos.... damn, you would not think one could get addicted to those things but you can I tell you. She got home about 5pm and of the 1,000p I gave her, there was no change... surprised?? not me. The only thing she forgot and me also, was to pay the cable bill of 1,000p. Speaking of that, Alex has agreed to split the cost of the cable bill once we leave so Jenny will have a connection, having Nora's phone and all so communication will still occur even though it may be thru FaceBook or Messenger. So Jenny will just have to pay 500p per month

Nora will go to church this morning and while in Divine, she will buy a couple of brooms for the apts. The ones I bought are darn near worn out now... a lot like me.

I think that Nora will go to church later this morning or perhaps this afternoon as she told me she has something to do, which is to prepare lunch as Kenneth is helping out in the Factory today to make and deliver the cookies.

We slept good last night, the foot pain has subsided considerably and the pain that was starting in the right toe seems to have gone away so that is wonderful and relieves me of some discomfort. The other foot, the left one, seems to decreased in the swelling and the pain is nominal so I feel I am on the mend... BTW Gareth, I had Nora buy me a big jug of Red Tea, I am thinking that may become my drink of choice until I can get the medicine to circumvent these gout attacks.

Hope you are enjoying your beautiful Saturday and that you have some nice plans for tonight... take care and remember you are both always in our thoughts...

From denny's iPad...
(my demented mind)

Saturday morning starts with 'Grilled Cheese sandwiche, coffee and meds'

Apr 09, 2011

Well yesterday afternoon proved to not be too exciting, except that I finally did get to talk to Lollie and reassure myself that all was well in El Dorado Hills... she had been depressed because of a situation involving a little Asian Shite bird and his problem (minor medical issue) but now I can say verily unto you that he is no longer 'full of shit' and that brings unmitigated peace to the world of Wong.

Alex repaid me the remaining 2,000p that he owed me so we are even again... for how long remains a mystery though.

What I assume to be Gout has attacked my left foot, beginning in the ball and arch area, it became so tender that it was very painful to just lift the leg, dangeling the foot, just the weight of the foot was painful... Nora got me some kind of pain pill that lessened that pain then later yesterday I noticed that the big toe on the right foot was having sympathy pains for it's left hand bretheren... I hate family connections like that.

Oddly I have found that the pain in my left foot is slowly subsiding in the ball and arch area but increasing in the area of the Achilles tendon (tender at the moment, but not painfully so. I hope that it's progression is halted by the antibiotics and pain pills that I am taking as that condition involving the Achilles tendon and the heel is excruciating and I am adverse to experiencing that again...

Our trip to the Mall today may get cancelled, especially if the foot continues to deteriorate to the point where it is painful to walk as there is a fair amount of walking involved in the trip to the SM Mall both in stairs and distance. I would hate to disappoint the kids but it could happen. I will try to keep you informed...

From denny's iPad...
(my demented mind)

Another week finished... keep on rollin' along time...

Apr 08, 2011

Well I never did get to talk to Lollie yesterday, I attempted to call her many times but always just the message. Sister I hope you had a great day and it was filled with Joy and happiness for both you and your little Asian hubbybear. Our day was normal although I was confined to the bed almost all day with my lovely foot. The pain pills Nora bought at least afforded me limited movement.

We slept quite well though... I did, however, wake at around 1:30 or 2am in a sweat... I believe that I did have a fever and that it broke at that time. I felt good and refreshed this morning so that is a good thing.

Tomorrow, the plan is to take Joyce and Kenneth and Nora to the Mall to see "Rio" which even though animated, I think Nora will reall like it a lot...

Today, Friday and another week finished... Thank you Lord for giving us the strength to preservere...

From denny's iPad...
(my demented mind)

Gout, pain, I don't like that stuff at all

Apr 07, 2011

The day was pretty good all in all, Kenneth got most of his stuff done, it will finish on Friday and Apr 12th for NBI.

Last night, the dreaded Gout attacked me, this time in the arch of my left foot, extremely painful, swollen and imobilized me pretty much. I took some ibuprofen yesterday afternoon and a couple of Tylenol PM tabs before bedtime... Unbelieveable, I cannot even make it to the bathroom or to the Apartment next door... I used to thnk that I had pretty good control of pain, but this bout has me wondering about that. I think that Nora is going to go to the drug store and get some pain pills, like what I took in Basud last year. They did help.

I tried to call Lollie with no luck so far so I just left a message for them.

I got the 1,800p that Linda owed me today and I also got 3,000p of the 5,000p that Alex owes me... says he will par the remainder tomorrow.

Well, I am signing off to enjoy my sufferage...

From denny's iPad...
(my demented mind)

Today is Kenneth's clearance day and halfway thru the week...

Apr 06, 2011

Today is Wednesday and Nora and Kenneth will leave shortly for the Marilao Police dept to acquire Kenneth's police report and NBI Clearance. Outside of getting their Medical, that is all that is left before their Visa interviews. I still have to fill out the I-864 form but that should be it I hope.

Yesterday was quiet after we had lunch, nothing too dramatic happened although it was pretty hot here. Nora got home earlier than she thought, she had told me to pick her up at 4pm but she was home by 3:15.

I gave Nora 500p to pay for the processing of Kenneths papers. They probably will be back home by 10am or so. From then, Nora will make lunch then head to Manila and St. Lukes clinic. I am not sure where yesterday went, but it seems that I misplaced it somehow. I thought today was Tuesday.

My left foot around the ball of the foot is sore as a boil today, it started last night but I don't know why... No traumal, swelling or redness at all, just like it did in Basud last Summer... damn thing.

Anyway, halfway thru the week and progress is being made and for that I am very pleased... I hope it continues smoothly and quickly.

The day is yours, do with it what you may, I hope from it you can withdraw smiles and warm feelings...

••• 8:30am, Alex came to me to borrow 5,000p until tomorrow morning so I loaned it to him... This guy has no idea of how to manage his money, none at all !

From denny's iPad... (my demented mind)

Nora's clearances are now done, Kenneth will tomorrow.

Apr 05, 2011

Lollie was fine, we didn't do much the rest of Monday, had a good dinner then retired...

This morning, after coffee and breakfast, Nora decided that we will go to Marilao at 8:30 for her police certificate... Took a Jeepney then a tricab to the police station where to our surprise, we were not only able to get her police clearance but also the NBI clearance so that is all done for her now.

Kenneth and Nora will go to Marilao tomorrow morning to get his police clearance and NBI clearance also... after that, all he will have to do is re-medical and his visa interview.

It cost Nora 75p yesterday at the Barangay and another 365p today at the police station for a total of 440p. It should be less for Kenneth.

Nora is in the process of doing dishes then prepping for lunch after which she will go to St. Lukes clinic.

From denny's iPad...
(my demented mind)

Monday and the first week of April is almost gone.

Apr 04, 2011

After church yesterday, we stopped at a little restaurant and I had rice cereal and Nora had some noodle dish. Both of us had a soft drink also as it was quite hot by then.

The day involved mostly laundry so there wasn't much to do except hang clothes and read which I did quite a bit of both.

Ana has taken to selling food at a little stand at the end of our lane in the evenings... she says it helps their income somewhat.

Jenny and Nora and I discussed what Jenny's plans are for after we depart the Philippines... she indicated that she wants to return to college and pursue the already started Nurses course. I believe she will stay in the big apartment here and she really almost has to because of all the furniture and appliance that is here... she will get it all, the furniture, dishes, clothes washer, refrigerator, TV, DVD and all the other stuff that made up our household here... Not a bad start considering what most single girls her age have... Certainly more than I had when I was on my own to start with...

Jenny will receive 10,000p from us each month as subsistance and Father can send her some too. I will need to see how to send it to her the most economically, perhaps direct deposit using RemitHome to a bank here would be the best. We will check that out.

We slept good last night, Nora and Kenneth will attempt to get the local police clearance reports for themselves today and tomorrow they will both go to NBI for their other clearances. Kenneth must also go to the college to finish up the paperwork for the previous session.

I have a exercise disk in the Philips music box and baby denny was standing in the doorway dancing, cute. His little horns barely showed. Now he is standing by an old tricab and is beating on it with a little stick... Nora came in here to change the music and baby wandered off into the court where there are holes he could easily step in and break a leg... I don't know why they (Nora and the Kids) don't pay more attention to what he is getting into or near. I have said from the beginning and continue to believe that they are strictly reactive to him and not proactive... you pay one helluva price for that kind of crap sometimes.

Well Mondays are always busy so I guess I will call Lollie and see how the world is treating them on this their Sunday evening...

From denny's iPad...
(my demented mind)

Blessed Sunday, Thank you God for all you provide...

Apr 03, 2011

"Saw Vi"... What a devious mind has the producer of this series... Nora did really well after the opening scenes (about 6 minutes). She even asked me some questions about the show. But if you want a show that provokes thought, this ain't it. This is only to be described in one word...mindless 'slaughter'. My kind of movie for sure... of course I don't go to see the mayhem, but the special effects used by the studios to make such trash so believable... it truly is amazing.

We left for the mall about 11:15am as the showtime was at 1:30 and I like to get there just after the previous showing lets out to see the trailers of upcoming events. We bought Nora a comb and looked around some... we bought some stale popcorn for the movie and a couple bottles of water.

After the show, we went to the Department store and got the usual compliment of chips and a couple bags of different ones for the children... I convinced Nora to give them one bag when we got home and save the other for today. If we'd given them both bags yesterday, they would have gobbled them up so this way they get two days of treats.

It was a good day yesterday.

Kenneth just told me he would not be going to church with us this morning because he doesn't have any clean clothes left. He indicated that he would go with Jenny tonight instead and I concurred.

Looks to be another hot day today. The laundry lady is here so by tonight we will all have clean and fresh laundry to wear again. That brings to thought the change I need to make with this family once we arrive in the States... you wear only one set of clothes in a day unless an accident happens to make you need another, here they change causes of the sweating and heat but there they won't have that problem... I figure you dress for the day in the morning then you can put on you kick back clothes when the evening comes or you get home from work/school whatever. I am trying to avoid a stupendous water usage bill and that includes showers that are only 20 minutes rather than the Kenneth style of 45 minutes... it will be a learning curve for them, but I have the power to turn off the hot water and in Oregon, the tap water is frickin cold.

Nora and I will attend Mass this morning then we will unravel the remains of Sunday and see what it produces...

May God bless and keep you, each and every one of you !!!

••• Alex repaid the 4,000p this afternoon

From denny's iPad... (my demented mind)

Saturday and the 2nd day of the Month... again...

Apr 02, 2011

Great sleeping last night (Friday), the weather was much cooler and we were both tired out from the day yesterday which started at 5;15am. As I mentioned before, got all thru the Embassy stuff, now just wait for the letter is what the clerk said.

We decided to get Nora and Kenneth's police clearances done before he leaves for Basud then he will re-medical as soon as we come back from Basud in May. Joyce doesn't need any clearance stuff done as she is too young.

Nora is making coffee now, later after lunch we will go to the SM Mall and hopefully see "Saw VI" and of course buy some Cheetos jalapeño style.

I hope it proves to be a great day for you and me both...

From denny's iPad...
(my demented mind)

"April Fools Day", Next month is May, it is happening peoples...

Apr 01, 2011

April Fools day, the time honored day of pranks and jokes on our fellow man/woman.

Last night, we slept well, realizing that we would make yet another trip to the US Embassy in search of answers and perhaps to further the process of getting my new family home to the United States.

We left the house about 6:20 am it seems and the ride to town (Manila) was pretty good and our time at the Embassy was OK 'cept the person that Occupies the job at window 38 had the personality of a piece of well washed car mat. No smile, no nice greeting, nothing to enhance the experience... I don't know how the hell people like that get a job representing an entire country. Bless them I say but with what would I bless them you ask... a basket of vipers...., what else would befit their personality??

Nora was tasked with filling out the I-230 forms and also a cover letter that indicated we are ready to continue in the process of obtaining the Visas.

We didn't leave there until almost 11:00am then stopped at Jollibee for breakfast/lunch.

From there on to St. Lukes clinic where fortunately we didn't have long to wait and after Nora got her meds, we talked to a supervisor who explained that it is actually the policy of the CDC that makes us wait so long to take the final culture sputum test and I will never know why it takes 2 months to get the results... Bottom line is that her results will be in by the end of June so hypothetically she should be able to interview the first week in July and perhaps board a plane during the second week.

Joyce and Kenneth can re-medical anytime and because they are on separate petitions, they can go to the US with me even if Nora had to stay here longer. She wants the kids to finish up and have their visa's as soon as possible. It is not a bad idea, their visa's are good for 6 months. Oddly though, Nora's visa is only good for 3 Months so she cannot drag her feet in leaving the Philippines. The sooner that I can remove her and the kids from her the better I will like it.

Last night, after we had dinner, I was here in the sleeper apt taking a bath and Alex banged on the door and wanted to see me... I told him I would catch up to him after I finished... Naturally it was to borrow again money, this time 4,000p to be repaid Sunday.

I see that "Saw VI" is playing at the SM Mall so my wish is to see it this afternoon, Nora is not to sure, worried about it being a 'Ghost' movie but I told her it is a walk in the park "Horror" film, no Ghosts.

Have a great day

From denny's iPad...
(my demented mind)