While the fires are still raging in some parts of the county, they are on the whole now largely contained. In particular, we are no longer in any danger of evacuation. (I actually had a 'we had to evacuate' entry written and ready to post, but fortunately never had to use it.)
Residents in many parts of the city and county have been given the green light to return home. Thanks to all of you who have showed your concern for us the past few days through comments, emails, and phone calls. We are very touched by your care.
We're going to try and return to a normal routine--that is, not sitting in front of the tv and blogging all the time. So posts here will be scarce for the next few days. If you want the latest info on the fires, the best single site is here.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Fire pics from my iphone
Here is one that I got to snap while hosing down the house.
I ran across the street to snap this pic.
This one was taken while I was on top of the garage hosing it down.
From the backyard.
This one was taken while I was on top of the garage hosing it down.
From the backyard.
On the roof in the back part of the house.
Fire update
Firestorm Death Toll Rises:
Six people have died from fire-related causes since fires broke out on Sunday morning, county officials said Wednesday.
Of the total, only one person died from burns. Thomas James Varshock, 52, of Tecate, died on his property during the Harris Fire on Sunday, Oct. 21. This is the fire that is in South San Diego that would affect the Martinez family. We are continuing to monitor what the fire department is doing out there.
Another note, my cousin Char was down here with her family this past weekend and we desparately were trying to get her a hotel room for her to stay in. I come to find out that besides the fact that the majority of San Diego was being evacuated and people were looking for rooms, there is a large Doctor convention in town this week. Well do to the fact that not until yesterday the news began to spread nation-wide the hotels were holding reservations and not allowing thousands of evacuees get those rooms. I guess that will be something that will be worked on for the next time the fires come around.
Anyway, I'll be back to update with more info later... I have to go provide my taxi services. =)
Here is a pic of the Bonita fire that was close to my house!
Six people have died from fire-related causes since fires broke out on Sunday morning, county officials said Wednesday.
Of the total, only one person died from burns. Thomas James Varshock, 52, of Tecate, died on his property during the Harris Fire on Sunday, Oct. 21. This is the fire that is in South San Diego that would affect the Martinez family. We are continuing to monitor what the fire department is doing out there.
Another note, my cousin Char was down here with her family this past weekend and we desparately were trying to get her a hotel room for her to stay in. I come to find out that besides the fact that the majority of San Diego was being evacuated and people were looking for rooms, there is a large Doctor convention in town this week. Well do to the fact that not until yesterday the news began to spread nation-wide the hotels were holding reservations and not allowing thousands of evacuees get those rooms. I guess that will be something that will be worked on for the next time the fires come around.
Anyway, I'll be back to update with more info later... I have to go provide my taxi services. =)
Here is a pic of the Bonita fire that was close to my house!
San Diego Wildfires
The tragic wildfires have destroyed homes and disrupted so many lives throughout San Diego County, among them many of our family, and friends.
Good news. The winds are continuing to subside, and the worst of the fires are being contained. More residents are being allowed to return to their neighborhoods.
I no longer think my cousin's on both my dad and mom's side, along with friends who live in the Eastlake and Otay Ranch area will be awaiting evac orders anytime soon. The Martinez's [(dad's) Mike, Michelle, Michael, and Mikayla], and ({mom's} Diego, Ingrid, Alexa, and Diego Arath). Friends in that area include, Paule family, Brown family, and Castro family.
As far as the Mejia's, we here in Paradise Hills had our biggest scare yesterday when we began to have large amounts of ash hit from the Spring Valley and Bonita fires. As long as these fires stay somewhat contained we should be ok, but the air quality was horrendous yesterday.
The reports of deaths are still amazingly low--still only 2 confirmed deaths. Considering close to 400,000 acres have been burned and nearly 1 million of San Diego residents have been evacuated at some point.
All schools are closed for the rest of the week, with only essential employees being asked to go in.
The outpouring from the local community has been amazing. Qualcomm Stadium, where the Chargers play, has 10,000+ people staying in it, and has begun to turn away donations because they don't need any more. I ran a couple of truck loads to the Stadium on Monday morning, and I must say that it is pretty amazing how much people are helping out.
Stay tuned for more info, God Bless....
Good news. The winds are continuing to subside, and the worst of the fires are being contained. More residents are being allowed to return to their neighborhoods.
I no longer think my cousin's on both my dad and mom's side, along with friends who live in the Eastlake and Otay Ranch area will be awaiting evac orders anytime soon. The Martinez's [(dad's) Mike, Michelle, Michael, and Mikayla], and ({mom's} Diego, Ingrid, Alexa, and Diego Arath). Friends in that area include, Paule family, Brown family, and Castro family.
As far as the Mejia's, we here in Paradise Hills had our biggest scare yesterday when we began to have large amounts of ash hit from the Spring Valley and Bonita fires. As long as these fires stay somewhat contained we should be ok, but the air quality was horrendous yesterday.
The reports of deaths are still amazingly low--still only 2 confirmed deaths. Considering close to 400,000 acres have been burned and nearly 1 million of San Diego residents have been evacuated at some point.
All schools are closed for the rest of the week, with only essential employees being asked to go in.
The outpouring from the local community has been amazing. Qualcomm Stadium, where the Chargers play, has 10,000+ people staying in it, and has begun to turn away donations because they don't need any more. I ran a couple of truck loads to the Stadium on Monday morning, and I must say that it is pretty amazing how much people are helping out.
Stay tuned for more info, God Bless....
Friday, October 19, 2007
io e basta!!!
Ho sempre saputo che nel mio DNA c'è la emozione, le emozioni che questo grande dono riesce a trasmettere, ed proprio questo che voglio fare nella vita, VOGLIO TRASMETTERE EMOZIONI!!!
La mia Carta d' Identità
Nome: Antonio
Cognome: Mejia
Data di nascito: 05 / 11 / 1978
Segno Zodiacale: Tauro
Professione: Studente
Residenza: Sara la mia piccola citta San Diego
La mia Famiglia: Il mitico papà Antonio, la mia amatissima mamma Berta, ho due fratelli, Adriano e Michelle.
Orario: In continuo andare e venire.
Profumo preferito: Issey Miyake
Cartoon preferito: non guardo il televisor per cartoon
Cantante preferito: Frank Sinatra e Tony Bennett
Piatto preferito: Sempre desidero qulacosa da mangiare, ma pasta a frutta di mare e il mio preferitio.
Segni particolari: Sono simpatico, cosi dicono!
La mia Carta d' Identità
Nome: Antonio
Cognome: Mejia
Data di nascito: 05 / 11 / 1978
Segno Zodiacale: Tauro
Professione: Studente
Residenza: Sara la mia piccola citta San Diego
La mia Famiglia: Il mitico papà Antonio, la mia amatissima mamma Berta, ho due fratelli, Adriano e Michelle.
Orario: In continuo andare e venire.
Profumo preferito: Issey Miyake
Cartoon preferito: non guardo il televisor per cartoon
Cantante preferito: Frank Sinatra e Tony Bennett
Piatto preferito: Sempre desidero qulacosa da mangiare, ma pasta a frutta di mare e il mio preferitio.
Segni particolari: Sono simpatico, cosi dicono!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Are we really Evil? Maybe only on Oct. 31!
Is there really Evil lurking in each of us just sitting stagnant. Is there perhaps a place in all of us where angels fear to tread because they would uncover the 'Lucifer' that sits incubating in each individual and every human institution...Should we be on the alert, to be ever mindful and ever ready least we fall into this heart of utter darkness?
Getting to know ourselves is a crucial challenge of human existence and I began thinking about this recently. Is there a point where good people turn evil? Can our mind's be manipulated brainwashed, conditioned, and indoctrinated? I can't tell you for sure nor can I say I believe so but this is the type of crap that is running through my head after a long day of doing loads of school-work that has absolutely no point. Plus the fact that Halloween is coming up is why I am wondering about this topic. Not that I have any weird beliefs but you just never know.
Also for your amusement, the American Red Cross was on campus today to take blood donations. They had schedules that people made online and a freaking empty bus. I went up to sign-up because as you all know I donate to the San Diego Blood Bank; and these fools put me on a hour and a half wait list when there was no one there. I told the lady sorry but no waiting and took off. I will go down the SD Blood Bank tomorrow afternoon or something, freaking incredible don't you think?
Ahh, I think I am due a nice caffeine break and then I will skip class tonight because I am not feeling all that well. Perhaps I should nap in the library.
Getting to know ourselves is a crucial challenge of human existence and I began thinking about this recently. Is there a point where good people turn evil? Can our mind's be manipulated brainwashed, conditioned, and indoctrinated? I can't tell you for sure nor can I say I believe so but this is the type of crap that is running through my head after a long day of doing loads of school-work that has absolutely no point. Plus the fact that Halloween is coming up is why I am wondering about this topic. Not that I have any weird beliefs but you just never know.
Also for your amusement, the American Red Cross was on campus today to take blood donations. They had schedules that people made online and a freaking empty bus. I went up to sign-up because as you all know I donate to the San Diego Blood Bank; and these fools put me on a hour and a half wait list when there was no one there. I told the lady sorry but no waiting and took off. I will go down the SD Blood Bank tomorrow afternoon or something, freaking incredible don't you think?
Ahh, I think I am due a nice caffeine break and then I will skip class tonight because I am not feeling all that well. Perhaps I should nap in the library.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
King admitted to hospital
His Majesty the King of Thailand was yesterday admitted to Siriraj Hospital for brain treatment, according to the Royal Household Bureau. His Majesty experienced weakness on the right side of his body and his personal physicians recommended he check into Siriraj Hospital for a brain scan.
From MRI and CT scans, doctors found slightly inadequate blood flow to the left cerebral cortex (outer layer) of the brain.
After taking medication, the King felt his legs regaining strength eight hours later. The bureau said His Majesty would stay at the hospital on the Chalermphrakiet building's 16th floor for further observation.
The bureau also posted a statement on a board as many people travelled to the hospital to wish the King a speedy recovery.
Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont and Public Health Minister Mongkol na Songkhla visited the King last night. The bureau will today bring out get-well books for well-wishers to sign.
Thailand's revered monarch, who turns 80 on December 5, has suffered heart-related problems in the past.
Last year the King marked his 60th year on the throne, in nationwide celebrations that was attended by royalty from around the world.
He is the world's longest reining monarch. Although a constitutional monarch with no political powers other that the right to veto bills and appointments as head of state, King Bhumibol's moral authority is legendary and deemed a key element in the country's political stability over past decades.
From MRI and CT scans, doctors found slightly inadequate blood flow to the left cerebral cortex (outer layer) of the brain.
After taking medication, the King felt his legs regaining strength eight hours later. The bureau said His Majesty would stay at the hospital on the Chalermphrakiet building's 16th floor for further observation.
The bureau also posted a statement on a board as many people travelled to the hospital to wish the King a speedy recovery.
Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont and Public Health Minister Mongkol na Songkhla visited the King last night. The bureau will today bring out get-well books for well-wishers to sign.
Thailand's revered monarch, who turns 80 on December 5, has suffered heart-related problems in the past.
Last year the King marked his 60th year on the throne, in nationwide celebrations that was attended by royalty from around the world.
He is the world's longest reining monarch. Although a constitutional monarch with no political powers other that the right to veto bills and appointments as head of state, King Bhumibol's moral authority is legendary and deemed a key element in the country's political stability over past decades.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Achieve!
No matter from what background, circumstances, or environment you may have come from, it's always essential to strive to better yourself. I have great respect for those who are born into horrible and demeaning situations in life. And yet, in spite of their situations, they got up, got out, and became successes. Some of these individuals were born on dirt floors, having to wallow in poverty, surrounded by crime, gangs, drugs, and possibly worse.
I honor those who achieved success in spite of such challenges; especially, those who were abused by parents, guardians, caregivers, or people who are supposed to be trustworthy. What enables people to transcend dismal situations? I believe it's because they have come to know and recognize the enemies of achievement.
First, they know that physical poverty hurts, but they also realize that poverty of the spirit is a greater problem than just being poor in money and in resources. A spirit of cynicism and a sense of boredom are the greatest enemies of progress. They produce inaction, reluctance, and cause one to retreat.
To advance and develop, you must know you can; and then, you must take action. Self-awareness, personal growth, education, and entrepreneurial "spunk" lead to success. The person who transcends even the most bleak of circumstances is the one who believes that in a universe of unlimited possibilities, there's always another opportunity to make things just a little better.
Second, achievers believe in themselves. Why should you believe in yourself? The achievement of anything begins with the idea that it is possible to do and that you can do it. Belief is a powerful motivator. Every year thousands of people go forth seeking to live their dreams. Many struggle but through persistent effort and belief in themselves, they become successful in creating a stable and secure life for themselves.
Third, achievers have figured out that problems and challenges come with the territory, and they are undaunted by them. Those who rise up and become successes in life view challenges merely as inconveniences and not as problems. From their perspective, no challenge is permanent, and they act as if obstacles don't even exist. They set goals and forge ahead. They go under, over, around, and through. They focus on solutions.
They've also learned that it does no good to complain to people who don't care and can't help you. So if you're going to complain, find people who care. If you can't, be quiet and move on!
Fourth, achievers never use lack of talent as an excuse for not making an effort. At some point, many of us learn to be afraid and skeptical of our chances to accomplish what we want. But at what point do we choose to quit or give up? You must be determined to persevere, endure, and overcome.
Fifth, achievers find joy. There is joy in living meaningfully, with a clear purpose and using creative intelligence. That choice is up to each of us. Joy is happiness that does not depend on circumstance. Find your wellspring of joy and go to it every day. Growth is what life is about. On the one hand it comes naturally; on the other hand it comes by exerting some effort. Achievers realize that all of the elements and tools necessary to grow and develop are available. Developing your mind and body comes as the result of being curious, wanting to learn, and directing your energy.
Getting with others to set goals and work, makes it easier to encourage yourself, improve your condition, and stretch. Eventually, you will encounter people who often believe in you more than you believe in yourself. People constitute our most important asset. It's by meeting life's challenges together that we are strengthened, grow, and achieve our dreams.
I'm about dreams and lifestyle. Be helpers of the world. View life as an art and heaven on earth. Be a person who laughs and jokes. Believe in goodness. Be a person for humanity's cause. With childlike Jouissance and skillful puissance live everyday of your life, balanced with a keen aesthetic, bustling with warmth, love, and an artistic joie-de-vivre.
Pretty simple stuff, huh? Well let's face it, you must believe that details make the difference. Spend the time starting from scratch if you have to rather than cutting corners. Travel the world discovering new lifestyles and tastes rather than just reading about them in books. It's that personal touch that makes the difference, and we can all experience it. Let's be a family of creators who dream to better the world.
I honor those who achieved success in spite of such challenges; especially, those who were abused by parents, guardians, caregivers, or people who are supposed to be trustworthy. What enables people to transcend dismal situations? I believe it's because they have come to know and recognize the enemies of achievement.
First, they know that physical poverty hurts, but they also realize that poverty of the spirit is a greater problem than just being poor in money and in resources. A spirit of cynicism and a sense of boredom are the greatest enemies of progress. They produce inaction, reluctance, and cause one to retreat.
To advance and develop, you must know you can; and then, you must take action. Self-awareness, personal growth, education, and entrepreneurial "spunk" lead to success. The person who transcends even the most bleak of circumstances is the one who believes that in a universe of unlimited possibilities, there's always another opportunity to make things just a little better.
Second, achievers believe in themselves. Why should you believe in yourself? The achievement of anything begins with the idea that it is possible to do and that you can do it. Belief is a powerful motivator. Every year thousands of people go forth seeking to live their dreams. Many struggle but through persistent effort and belief in themselves, they become successful in creating a stable and secure life for themselves.
Third, achievers have figured out that problems and challenges come with the territory, and they are undaunted by them. Those who rise up and become successes in life view challenges merely as inconveniences and not as problems. From their perspective, no challenge is permanent, and they act as if obstacles don't even exist. They set goals and forge ahead. They go under, over, around, and through. They focus on solutions.
They've also learned that it does no good to complain to people who don't care and can't help you. So if you're going to complain, find people who care. If you can't, be quiet and move on!
Fourth, achievers never use lack of talent as an excuse for not making an effort. At some point, many of us learn to be afraid and skeptical of our chances to accomplish what we want. But at what point do we choose to quit or give up? You must be determined to persevere, endure, and overcome.
Fifth, achievers find joy. There is joy in living meaningfully, with a clear purpose and using creative intelligence. That choice is up to each of us. Joy is happiness that does not depend on circumstance. Find your wellspring of joy and go to it every day. Growth is what life is about. On the one hand it comes naturally; on the other hand it comes by exerting some effort. Achievers realize that all of the elements and tools necessary to grow and develop are available. Developing your mind and body comes as the result of being curious, wanting to learn, and directing your energy.
Getting with others to set goals and work, makes it easier to encourage yourself, improve your condition, and stretch. Eventually, you will encounter people who often believe in you more than you believe in yourself. People constitute our most important asset. It's by meeting life's challenges together that we are strengthened, grow, and achieve our dreams.
I'm about dreams and lifestyle. Be helpers of the world. View life as an art and heaven on earth. Be a person who laughs and jokes. Believe in goodness. Be a person for humanity's cause. With childlike Jouissance and skillful puissance live everyday of your life, balanced with a keen aesthetic, bustling with warmth, love, and an artistic joie-de-vivre.
Pretty simple stuff, huh? Well let's face it, you must believe that details make the difference. Spend the time starting from scratch if you have to rather than cutting corners. Travel the world discovering new lifestyles and tastes rather than just reading about them in books. It's that personal touch that makes the difference, and we can all experience it. Let's be a family of creators who dream to better the world.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
I wonder if this is true
I am almost done with my crap that I began while drinking wonderful intoxicants but I came across this article while navigating the never ending world wide web late yesterday evening. I find this article rather facinating, take a look here.
Friday, October 5, 2007
The love affair that hasn't ended
The love affair started 24 years ago when, at 5, in 1983, Alyssa Milano was cast as Tony Danza’s tomboy daughter, Samantha Micelli, in the sitcom Who’s the Boss? That’s when a generation of guys, including myself—guys who are now, like Milano, into their thirties—fell full-on, flush-cheeked, terminally in love with her. Her geekier fans are still reeling from the epsiode when Samantha got her first bra.
What is it about her you ask? Can I define it?’ Well I say, "She’s the girl I never got over.”
The fact that Milano looks as appealing now as she does in syndication only intensifies the collective crush. Insight into the former Samantha Micelli’s life as a grown-up: She’s a UNICEF ambassador and the founding ambassador of the Global Network for Neglected Tropical Disease Control, an organization to which she recently pledged $250,000. (“The fact that these diseases can be eradicated was like, well, this is a no-brainer,” she says. “It’s like a sale in global health!”) She has a successful line of Major League Baseball wear for women called Touch by Alyssa Milano, an entrepreneurial sideline the baseball fanatic created out of, she says, necessity. “I was sick of going in to purchase stuff and not being able to find anything that wasn’t pink,” she says (she’s a diehard Dodgers fan who has a blog on the MLB website). “It drove me nuts ’cause it was some guy’s answer to ‘What are we gonna do for the women? Oh, we’ll just make it pink, they’ll love it!’” Lastly, and most important, Milano is available.
Milano has taken a fancy to baseball players. Her last three boyfriends—Carl Pavano, Barry Zito, and Brad Penny—have all been Major League pitchers. Hmmm maybe I need to resurrect my baseball career, I don't know, just a thought.
What is it about her you ask? Can I define it?’ Well I say, "She’s the girl I never got over.”
The fact that Milano looks as appealing now as she does in syndication only intensifies the collective crush. Insight into the former Samantha Micelli’s life as a grown-up: She’s a UNICEF ambassador and the founding ambassador of the Global Network for Neglected Tropical Disease Control, an organization to which she recently pledged $250,000. (“The fact that these diseases can be eradicated was like, well, this is a no-brainer,” she says. “It’s like a sale in global health!”) She has a successful line of Major League Baseball wear for women called Touch by Alyssa Milano, an entrepreneurial sideline the baseball fanatic created out of, she says, necessity. “I was sick of going in to purchase stuff and not being able to find anything that wasn’t pink,” she says (she’s a diehard Dodgers fan who has a blog on the MLB website). “It drove me nuts ’cause it was some guy’s answer to ‘What are we gonna do for the women? Oh, we’ll just make it pink, they’ll love it!’” Lastly, and most important, Milano is available.
Milano has taken a fancy to baseball players. Her last three boyfriends—Carl Pavano, Barry Zito, and Brad Penny—have all been Major League pitchers. Hmmm maybe I need to resurrect my baseball career, I don't know, just a thought.
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