It's Monday, September 14, 2009, and boy, we sure have had some weird weather as of late. On Saturday, there was thunder and lightning and on Sunday, there was even rain. Oh well... we need it and I don't mind the timing seeing as how it didn't interfere with my softball schedule.

So, the last month has been a whirlwind. Thus the reason why I have not posted an entry in such a long time.

CBC LABOR DAY TOURNAMENT IN RENO

On Labor Day Weekend, Judgie, Super, Bush Baby, and I went to Reno to bowl at the National Bowling Stadium. Every Labor Day, all the bowlers in the Chinese Bowling Clubs throughout California gather together for a tournament. With the Bay Bridge closed for construction over the long weekend, the Bush Baby and I drove Da Toaster up the Golden Gate Bridge on 101, hopped on 37, and reconnected on 80 to Reno. Took us a little over 4 hours with the major holdup on 37 due to bottlenecking.

This year, I decided to participate in 3 events (one team and two doubles). The first event featured pairings of the Bush Baby and myself, and Judgie and Super on Saturday. Right off the start, the Bush Baby and I lit up the lanes as she secured a 178 game to go along with my 202. Things were looking up until the lane conditions changed on me leaving me with a 169 for a second game. The Bush Baby continued to do above average while I readjusted and changed balls to finish with a 203. Not bad for our first doubles together.

Judgie and Super, on the other hand, struggled. I saw games in the 150's from Judgie and 110's from Super.

The team event proved the same as the four of us could not get going due in large part to the Judgie and Super's lackluster bowling.

Despite the poor team performance, all of us managed to find some joy in shopping at the Legend's outlet. The Bush Baby and I only managed to hit two stores, Scheel's (ginormous sporting goods store) and Banana Republic Outlet Store.

Personally, I don't know if it is because BR is not "popular" or fashionable in Reno, but they sure had a lot of sizes and choices. This made for hours of fitting room visits and checking ourselves out in the mirror. At the end, we worked up an appetite and enjoyed a 3 hour eating bonanza at the Atlantis Resort and Casino buffet.

The next day, I was paired with the Judgie for the final doubles event. The Bush Baby teamed with the Super. And like the day before, the Judgie and Super performed poorly. While it is a bit disappointing to not do well seeing as how we drove so far, it was still a lot of fun.

Afterwards, we were rewarded with an extremely long drive home with major bottlenecking at the Golden Gate Bridge.

YOSEMITE

Sulking from defeat would not be allowed as Yosemite was our next destination. With only 10 hours between the time we returned from Reno to the time we depart for Yosemite, the Bush Baby and I did what needed to be done (unpack and pack, and rest) so that we could be on our way to "roughing it."

It was my first trip to Yosemite. I've seen tons of photos and heard countless stories about the park's picturesque surroundings, but I couldn't fathom how grandiose and spectacular Yosemite is until I actually saw it in person.

The walls of the mountains that line the valley were menacing and powerful, but provided an awesome backdrop to serene and lush greenery.

Da Cheeze and his son, Baby Cheeze, spearheaded the trip with the Bush Baby, Judgie, and myself to tag along.

The first night, we ate at the Curry Village buffet. All I can say is, it was passable, but hardly impressive. But when you're hungry, $15.25 a person for all you can eat fish and chips, tacos, beef roast, pasta, and BBQ chicken is not something to be get all worked up over.

Later that night, we made some S'mores and burned some firewood (a favorite activity). But the true excitement that we missed (thankfully), was a late night visit from a bear.

All of us heard our neighboring campers yell and make a ruckus to shoo away a bear that got into their cooler. Apparently, the bear was able to pry open the cooler and get hold of some eggs and sour cream. Hungry as that fell'er was, he didn't go to far with his loot as he parked himself right outside our campsite to load up for his journey back to the den.

While it was hearsay, it did spook the Bush Baby and myself to learn the next morning that the bear was only 5 feet away from where we were sleeping.

Still, it didn't detract us from our planned activity: hiking the Mist Trail. Despite Judgie's last minute change of heart to not hike, the Bush Baby and I would not deter from making the most of our short stay at Yosemite.

Judgie would eventually give in and join the hike with us, but threatened countless times to give up on the long climb to Vernal Falls.

At the end of the day, after many words of encouragement and rest, the three of us made the 6 mile hike. Judgie, despite being tired, didn't look much worse for wear while the Bush Baby still maintained a hop in her step. I, carrying the heaviest (20-25 lb) backpack, felt pretty good.

After a yummy dinner and another evening of burning up everything that was flammable in terms of firewood and pine cones, we retired for the night and the long drive home the next day.

SWING KIDS SOFTBALL

Without swinging a bat for 3 straight weeks and heading into a crucial game with our 3-1 record generated a bit of angst in me. My highly-rated and touted bat had yet to be "broken in," but from the many bad balls that have come off of it the last year, it provided little confidence in me that it was going to make up for what little to no practice I had during the long timeoff.

And sure enough, an early 0-2 to show for it.

With our opponents creeping slowly away, it was time that I gave up using my bat and delivered some hits. The Chairman pleaded that the team needed something from me and that I had to do whatever it takes to score some runs.

C: OK. It's 'Champ' or 'Chump' time!
T: Em.. Hmm... (lacking confidence)

With our team trailing 10-8 at the bottom of the 6th, I came up with the based loaded and 2 outs. With nothing much going on except a hit in my previous at bat, I was nervous yet amped to make something, anything happen.

And on the 2nd pitch, I laced a hard line drive to RF, scoring two to tie the game at 10-10. The team went wild as I finally provided them something to cheer about.

In the top of 7th, however, our defense collapse and spots our opponent 4 runs. With only 3 outs in the bank, our team manages to climb back and tie the game with our leadoff hitter, Norm, jacking an opposite field grand slam.

With two outs, I get up again with the winning run on 3rd base. Savage grumbles that the team should take a pitch after seeing two straight one pitch outs.

But allowing the moment to get to me, I completely forget about Savage's advice and swing at the first pitch, despite it looking extremely attractive. It's a hard groundball that veers towards the second baseman. Running to his right, he bends down with one hand, snag the ball, and flips it to second for the force out. Game over, 14-14 tie.

What could have been a magical night turned bittersweet.

The Chairman told me to not feel to bad about it, as I did hit the ball hard, and that the team may benefit from the tie seeing as how some of our teammates were not making a good enough effort to get to the games on time to warm up.

While the Chairman's words did provide me some solace, I was still bothered by it for much of the night (indicated by my inability to sleep). And worst yet, I had the Asian-Pacific Islander Tournament at Twin Creeks the next day.

API SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT

The DOM (Dirty Old Men) softball team's first game was at 2:40 p.m. The gave me an opportunity to hit the Fiend's BBQ in San Jose, and also, allowed me to brew on last night's failure.

Our shortstop and recruiter was excited about our team this year. He repeatedly say that this was "our year." Having played for him before, I knew better.

Still, we managed to mercy our first opponent 13-3. With a 2 for 3 performance, I was starting to feel better. The 0 for 1 again came off the Mutant.

Game Two was against a better opponent and players that I've played against and with in other tournaments. Mark, a friend and teammate of mine, noticed that I wasn't using the Mutant and inquired why. I told him of my troubles with that bat and asked for his advice as to whether to sell it or trade it for something else. He reassured me that it was a good bat and that it still needed to be broken in.

I went 1 for 1 with a hard line drive to RC before sitting out for the Savage. Again, the hit did not come off my prized Mutant.

The team, despite a small comeback, lost 19-16. With a 1-1 record, we managed to rank 5th for the upcoming double-elimination round.

In our 1st game (3rd game) when it actually counts, we faced a team from Guam. They had on nice uniforms and had an entire cheering section root them on. Still, we mercied them 16-3. I started the game on the bench, but came in to play midway. 0-2. Perhaps my body had started to shut down.

In our 2nd game (4th game), we faced another team that I was somewhat familiar with, again having played with and against some of their players. 15 minutes before the game, Mark runs over and grabs my Mutant and runs away with it. I knew he was up to something... He told me that he was going to get me something else, and sure enough he did.

My newest acquisition, a 2010 26oz Worth Toxic, a soon-to-be banned from sale, but approved for ASA play bat. I was somewhat sketchy about the trade because it would be the lightest bat I've ever own. However, the bat had a good feel to it and I was somewhat satisfied knowing that I was trading away a bat that was not returnable for one that was. Being of lighter weight also made the bat more desirable in the softball bat market. Savage snarled at the transaction knowing that his source of "weighty" bats was relinquishing the only bat that was above 27oz for him to use.

1st AB: Lazy fly ball/line drive to RF. Off the end of the bat, easy out.
2nd AB: Struck out swinging! 1st swing was the nastiest and most painful. Completely missing and torqued my back violently.
3rd AB: Weak-ass grounder to 1st base.

I'll hold judgment for now on the Toxic as my inability to find the sweet spot and adjust to the drastic weight change did not yield any results I can quantify and analyze.

For now though, my bat broker, Eric, tells me it was a good deal.

On Sunday, I sat out, opting to go to Da Cheeze's daughter's Red Egg & Ginger party at the Moonstar. DOM probably felt relieved knowing that they didn't have to deal with a hitter that started off decent, but became lost as the tournie went on. Yet, the competitor in me still felt I could of provided some help in their 12-11 and 11-6 losing efforts.

RACQUETBALL W/ THE FERRARI OF RACQUETS

Just before I headed off to Reno, my new racquetball racquet arrived. The Ektelon EX03 Black: The highest power level (4000) racquet Ektelon makes. I am one of the first people to own one.

My first night out with it was rough as I had hoped the racquet provided me more control and was more forgiving on mis-hits. My second night out with it made me realize that I had to stick with my power game.

Losing 15-8, 15-6, and 15-12, I realized that I was making the mistake of compromising my power for control that will develop later as I play more often. Last game, 21-13, victory! My first!

Some people have asked me why I play racquetball and why I've grown such an affection for it.

First, and probably the most important reason why, is that I see it having a profound effect on my body. For the first time in a long while, I'm actually starting to see my abdominals! Also, my softball teammates have mentioned that I am faster! That means a lot for someone who's used to hearing that he is the slowest or one of the slower guys on the team.

Second, because it is primarily an individual sport, I'm enjoying knowing that fact that I dictate how I play and how much success I can achieve. No more teammates to get frustrated with. If there is anyone to blame, it is myself. If there is any glory, it goes to me cause I put in the time to improve.

Before I get started, I'll start with some rants as to why the world is imperfect and why, we as mankind, will reach an impasse and become extinct.

THE TWO DOUCHES
Read on:

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/08/06/BALE1950IA.DTL

These f'ers made away with $900,000 of taxpayers/SF Zoo funds and all they got to show for it is an extended criminal record. A tiger had to lose their life because of the actions of these morons. (Notice I didn't mention their friend that was killed by the tiger.) I hate to say it, but some people deserve to die, and by all accounts, their dead friend deserved his fate and these two may soon see their destiny in the fiery caverns of hell.

NORTH KOREA
Political grandstanding and posturing by an ill dictator may yield positive and negative results for the U.S. As much as I am happy for the two journalists that were released, I am disappointed that the U.S. had to compromise their stature so that this little short fool can get his photo-op and prove to the other nations in the world that he had the U.S.'s respect and attention.

Still, bottom line is, it is two lives worthy of saving. Not like the two f'ers previously mentioned.

The political posturing continues as it will be interesting to see what unfolds for this dictator and regime.

CRAIGSLIST BABY ADOPTION
Read on:

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfmoms/detail?blogid=46&entry_id=44932

Recently, I, along with some friends and family members, have received e-mails from other friends and family members requesting and demanding the removal of pictures of their kids and of themselves from public profile sites such as Facebook, Myspace, Geni, etc., sourcing the above article as reference. As I read their requests, I found myself laughing at the silliness and fears that this article has generated in these new parents and the irony of their demands.

First of all, your kids are safe. You, as their parents, will safeguard them with your life, and no ad, auction, or public profile site will get in the way of that. Like anything else in the world, there will be those that will use these types of medium for evil purposes. A knife, for example, is a useful tool that is intended for cutting and slicing food. Used the wrong way, it serves as a puncturing or stabbing weapon capable of hurting and even killing. Do we do away with all knives because of the negative drawbacks? Let's get a grip and think about the "bigger picture" when you make such requests.

Another issue that lies more personal in nature is what I call the "soapbox" opportunity. I've witnessed, in particularly new parents, the constant need to prove to others that they're doing "their job" as parents in the name of "protecting" their child(ren). Along the way, they make it a point and see it as an opportunity to "educate" others on how they're being effective parents. Everybody becomes an expert in childrearing. Personally and simply put, get off your f'en soapbox cause no one wants your f'en kid.

And like all the other times when I respond to these issues regarding parenting, I get the usual comeback, "Just wait till you become a parent, you'll see," or "What makes you qualified to speak on this, you're not a parent yet!" Well, I'll just say that if having children turns me into an uptight prude that thinks everything revolves around me and my f'en kid, then spare me the troublesome and foolish experience of procreating.

Getting back on topic, parents that worry so much about their child's picture on the Web shouldn't bother stepping foot outside their house. Hell, keep your kid in their windowless room. Who knows what kind of predator lurks in the shadows or in the bushes...

Now, on to the lighter side of life...

SOFTBALL - SWING KIDS

The Swing Kids opener was intense and actually a lot of fun. Going against the number one team in the season's first game always provides a good opportunity to see where the team measures up.

The opener started off great with us taking an 8-1 lead in the third inning. But as it happens often lately, we find a way to blow it. In this case, it only took 2 players to lose a game we should have won. Our right fielder, Steve, couldn't catch a fly ball if his life depended on it and costed us upwards of 7 runs. Our left-center fielder's noodle of an arm gave away 3 runs with his inability to throw the ball more than 25 feet. At the end, we lose 14-13 despite a lineup that included the Savage and Woo. Tactical error pointed out early in the game to the Chairman: Breaking up me (3rd in the order), Ray (4th), Savage (7th), and Woo (8th) in the lineup. This collective of hitters guarantees runs in a game where runs are a premium.

SOFTBALL - CANNONS

Despite "guaranteeing" victory, I watched on helplessly as the Cannons rolled over for a 19-4 beatdown. During the game, the Savage and I exclaim our disgust over how weak our teammates are and their inability to generate any bat speed when they're hitting.

The lamest excuse in the world, "I have a baseball swing... and in baseball, the pitcher provides most of the power."

My response to this sh*tty and stupid reasoning. First of all, you haven't played any form of competitive baseball since, probably high school. And in high school, even I had a harder swing than you. So you are telling me that you were successful in high school with that sh*tty swing? Cause if that was the case, I really should of tried out for my high school baseball team.

Next, you probably haven't played any baseball since high school. So that's probably 8-10 years now. You're telling me that you are still holding on to that sh*tty swing for nearly a decade and can't adjust to swinging faster?

Straight up weak. And like the Savage so eloquently says, "No wonder I stopped playing for this team two years ago!"

Part of me will always have a soft spot for the Cannons because it was a team that I created and I want to see the current manager, Randall, achieve some sort of success. But with players who go through a season batting .071 and choose not to come out to practice, and in turn, parlay off weak-ass excuses in your 2nd full season of play, I find it exceptionally difficult to find anything positive to say.

Tell me the sound reasoning in all this... These so-called "players" know they're deficient in something. There are others who can help these deficient individuals cultivate their game and improve on their hitting. However, these players that need help don't ask for it, nor do they respond when it is offered to them. So I just say to them, go drown in the sh*t that you laid yourself. Your ego will take you somewhere all right... straight to failure and regret.

SOFTBALL - KOREAN TOURNAMENT

A classic example of an underpowered team that is relatively new to the game. Used to getting whooped 25-2 and getting mercied, my brother-in-law's church team came into this year's tournament in Hayward with little expectations. My brother-in-law, Greg, offered my services to help out.

When I first saw this team, I knew they were lacking in a lot of areas. However, I noticed an enthusiasm in their manager, Ben, and in all of them. That enthusiasm fueled and inspired me to give everything I got to make this year's tournament different from the past.

Despite losing 23-11 and 22-10, our team was pleased to see that they actually scored double digits in both games and that we played a full game without getting mercied. Ben was extremely grateful that I stepped in to play and pitch for them. At the end of the day, I was extremely grateful for having the opportunity to play for their team.

This Saturday, we face a single-elimination playoff game. I really want to play more than one game, so I'm hoping that we can break out!

SOFTBALL - LATITUDE 38

Yesterday, Woo called me to sub on his team. They use to play in the Senior Masters League for the city, but were pushed to CC (highest open division) because they were too dominating.

The game was at 6:30 p.m. at Silver Terrace, an old park that was redone with artificial grass. This new turf took some getting use to as the hops were more true despite the field feeling rubbery.

The guys we played against were tough, all with the ability to go all fields with line drives. No towering fly balls like in the lower leagues.

At the end of the game, we lost 13-6. I was one of the fortunate few that actually secured a hit against a formidable pitcher. So formidable in fact that even Woo struck out fouling for his third strike (first time I saw Woo strike out).

Still, I saw it as a great experience and honor to be called to sub and play. They've even asked for my info and may ask for me to come back.

BOWLING - CBC

We're in 10th place with no shot to hit the top spot. Still, we did okay despite a 4 man rotation that changed each week.

On a personal level, I'm trying to hit 100 strikes for the season. Currently, I've hitted 88 with one week left to go.

Labor Day weekend, the Judgie, Super, Bush Baby, and I are going up to Reno to bowl at the National Bowling Center. We (Judgie, Super, Wayne, and myself) had an awesome time last year. I can see myself doing this annually.

TV - THE T.O. SHOW

The Bush Baby and I have been following T.O.'s reality show on VH1. The guy is a riot as he details the funny, and at times, heartwarming events that he and his cohorts get themselves into. I fully recommend anyone who hasn't checked out the show to do so. Monday, VH1 at 10 p.m.

As many of you guys already know, Terrell Owens is my favorite NFL player. Known by some to be a cancer in the locker room, all will not deny his physical abilities and undying determination he brings to the football field every Sunday. Those who watch the show will see that besides the persona, and at times, diva-like antics, is a guy who leads a pretty interesting life outside of football.

With that said, let me get down to "bidness."

RACQUETBALL

My friends, there is a new terror in racquetball... and it is I. My brother-in-law made the mistake of introducing me to the game. Now, I'm a hard-hitting, eye-blasting machine capable of inflicting nasty bruises on my opponents. Just ask my cousin!

In all seriousness, it is a lot of fun and a great workout. Each time I play (roughly 1+ hour), I am dripping with sweat and my heart is racing. Also, I can feel that I am working out parts of my body that are under utilized in an elliptical machine or treadmill. Next step, purchase a new racquet.

SOFTBALL

The summer season is starting soon. My wrist has had time to heal. After a 2 hour practice on Sunday, it has held up and has not given me any issues besides some tenderness. All in all, it is looking up.

Also, I purchased a pair of Oakley Flak Jacket XLJ's. They're silver with the fire iridium lenses.

I plan to get clear prescription transition lenses made so that I can use them for softball (day or night) and for racquetball (in case someone goes for MY eyes).

BOWLING (CBC)

We're now 13-11. Plummeting after a good start. My bowling has been mediocre... not helped by the fact that I came down with a cold on the day we're to bowl.

This week, after popping a loratadine, I raced to Classic to try and "right the ship." Unfortunately, the medicine didn't kick in fast enough as I suffered a 115 game. By the second game, however, it was working full force as I finished with a 189 and a 192. Still, we only managed one victory as our opponents, headed by the "other" CBC couple, Cameron and Jamie, bowled superbly to take us down.

- OTHER RANDOMNESS -

FREE WEEKEND?

The Bush Baby is heading out to Palm Springs on July 24-26 for her cousin's bachelorette party/weekend. That means I will have the whole house to myself. I wonder... should I throw a poker party, a deuces party, or a MJ party?

T-SHIRT IDEA?

Occasionally, I get e-mails from Snorg Tees. They produce catchy and funny t-shirts. Being an avid gym-rat, I have an idea that may or may not have gotten used yet. The title of my t-shirt would be, "NAUGHTY-LUST MACHINE" (a play on "Nautilus Machine.") The artwork would be a robot, kind of like a Terminator, dressed in S&M garb. What do you think?

CRUISING TO MEXICO "IN MY '64"
"jockin the bitches, slappin the hoes" - Eazy E

I don't know if it is the swine flu or the economy, or maybe both, but our cost of our 7-day Mexico cruise went down from $700 to $500.

Looking forward to it. The last and first cruise I went to was in December 2006 to Hawaii. I had a great time with the Bush Baby's family and Da Cheeze's family. At a ton of food, but found time to relax.

I'm definitely looking forward to this one.

First, BOOKS:

Just read "Boys Will Be Boys: The Glory Days and Party Nights of the Dallas Cowboys Dynasty." Fun read about the craziness and all-out debauchery from top to bottom that was deemed by many, "The Team of the Nineties." From Freaky Harp and Neon Deion to Jerry Jones and Jimmy Johnson. A dysfunctional bunch that made it work (to a point) but perhaps never reached their full potential.

4 out of 5 stars.

CURRENT AFFAIRS:

The big news of course is that two new girls enter the world. Our cousins, Albert and Tracy welcome Baby Mia. Our friends, Will (Da Cheeze) and Kim (Da Admiral) welcome Baby Miabella.

FOOD and DRINK:

Tried out a couple of new restaurants, including:

TOSTADAS - New Mexican restaurant right beside IN N OUT in Millbrae. Decent and fairly yummy. It's not my favorite Mexican restaurant, but I wouldn't mind going back.

3.5 out of 5 stars.

SHANGHAI DUMPLING KING - Brought my family there yesterday. Yummy Sugar Egg Puffs and tasty Shanghai Dumplings. Didn't care for the Crispy Rice Cakes. Like Tostadas, it's not my favorite Shanghai Dumpling restaurant, but I wouldn't mind going back simply for the Sugar Egg Puffs.

3.5 out of 5 stars.

POLITICS:

Many of you know that the State of California is in a budget bind. Instead of going into all the details, I would like to propose a simple solution.

With all the current unemployed workers, the state should hire a large team of auditors to audit every agency and program that is funded by the General Fund. There should not be any overtime and there should not be any misuse of funds (such as lame CalTrans road jobs at the end of the year to use up remaining funds and ensure funding for the next year). And let's look at the legislators and overhaul their salaries and benefits. Word is their per diems totaled hundreds of dollars a day. And you tell me there isn't abuse of the system going on?

SPORTS:

My A's win 7 in a row only to get swept by the Giants. Weak.

The MJ Wannabe finally gets his ring without Shaq. Funny how the suspicious trade of Pau Gasol to the Lakers two seasons ago did not get much attention from the media during the Finals. God knows, that cry-baby ball-hog would still be whining about leaving for the Clippers had Pau not been gift-wrapped by the NBA to the Lakers.

The Swing Kids softball season finally came to an end. After multiple weeks of rainouts and postponements, we finally finished off the season with a double header. Hampered all season with a bad wrist (inflammation of the tendons), my offensive contributions were lacking to say the least. Needless to say, the time off till summer season is much needed to heal.

The CBC Summer Season has just started. On our first week, we faced the "Elders," led by Al Hom, Al Jew, and Jan Jew.

Our team, the MINI SIRLOIN BURGERS, led off with a lineup of the Bush Baby, Judgie, and Da Puba.

Game 1

Both teams struggled. With the Bush Baby generating only a 133 and Da Puba stifled with only a 162, it was up to the Judgie to lead the charge.

Pivotal moment: Trailing 18 pins in the 10th frame, Da Puba and Bush Baby both connect on spares to even the game up for the Judgie to close out.

Head to head with Jan, the Judgie had the advantage with his ability to throw the ball two times as fast as Jan's 9.3 mph ball.

Jan's first shot: 7 (Typical. Her slow ball usually gets tossed around when it makes contact).

Judgie's first shot: 7 (The Judgie is nervous. He is feelin' the pressha.)

Jan's second shot: Spare Pickup (That's her game. Knocked down as many as she can her first shot, and pick up whatever's left.)

Judgie's second shot: 2 (The Judgie chokes the big one as he rushes his approach.)

We lose by 8 pins.

Refusing to implode on the first game of the Summer Season, Da Puba simply laughs and then seriously exclaims to the Judgie, "You owe me one f'en game!"

Game 2

Knowing the team was dejected, it was time for Da Puba to do what he does best... To go for an all-out assault.

As Duke says in ROCKY BALBOA, "What you need is Blunt Force Trauma..."

And that was what Da Puba delivered.

242.

A 75 pin schlacking.

Game 3

MINI SIRLOIN BURGERS regains their form and confidence. The Bush Baby improves to a 155. Da Judgie musters a 200. And Da Puba unloads a 218.

Another 75 pin ass-whoopin'.

We're 3-1.

This week, the rotation shelves Da Puba as he is replaced by Da Super.

TELEVISION:

I'm just waiting for the debut of THE SUPERSTARS on ABC. Can't wait to see T.O. put on a show!

THOUGHTS:

Life is fantabulous! I am looking forward to my 32nd year of life!

TRAVEL:

Last Thursday, drove down the hill to the San Bruno Senior Center where I was spanked for $25 by the old ladies in BINGO.

Three weeks ago, drove down to the San Jose Municipal Stadium to watch the San Jose Giants lose to the Modesto Nuts (Colorado Rockies minor league team).

On a less exciting note, drove to Santa Rosa a couple of times for work.

For $23K, Da Toaster has a lot of bells and whistles:

- 19 in. TRD rims (damn things are bigger than my 330's!)
- TRD cold air intake (every bit of power helps!)
- TRD exhaust tip (gotta let people know that you're coming!)
- TRD gear shift knob (just because!)
- Navi system that can play DVDs (only at stop, might have to get that altered!)
- Seperate DVDs in the back of the front seat headrests w/ wireless headsets (if I ever get demoted to the back seats)
- Ambient lighting - red, green, blue, orange (always love lights and effects)
- Ipod/MP3 player inputs (no one listens to CDs anymore!)

We figure it is a fun and cheap way to get around. Also, it satisfies my inner "Fast & Furious" and "Rice Rocket" desires.

Photos to come...

Some cute slogans for the xB:

"You got beat by a Toaster!"

"Aerodynamics are over-rated!"

Da Super secured 200 opens and almost 150 spares (149).
Da Judgie secured 200 spares, almost 200 strikes (190), and broke 100 opens.
Da Puba secured 200 strikes and 150 spares.

At the end, Super contributed $76 into the pot. Judge raped him for $40 of it. Puba violated him for $25 of it. The Super recupes $10 to make his losings $66.

New teams were drawn (twice, thrice...) with the honors going to our league secretary, Check.

Team 1 features:

Da Judgie - After surviving a full season with Da Puba, the Judgie tries to lead his own team. Will he utilize his studies under Da Puba to be the clutch bowler and silent leader he is capable of becoming? Or will he revert back to showcasing his skills in meaningless performances? Nonetheless, he became a first time season winner as his efforts along with Da Puba's secured $40 from their rivals. Projected average in 2009/2010 season: 182

Da Bush Baby - Frustration and more frustration plagued the Bush Baby this past season as she tried to bowl well under the guise of a team without much of an identity. Capable of going hot at any time, the Bush Baby has to find it within herself to carry and lead her team in their darkest hour. Projected average in 2009/2010 season: 165

Tylon's Brother - Giving up on his team even before the season got going exemplified TB's season. Eager to prove that he could be a winnah without Da Puba, TB failed miserably to deliver. One could say that his failure was more cataclismic than his playoff collapse as it entailed 30+ weeks. Unable to secure a spot on Da Puba's team, will TB continue to blame the fact that he will not be highlighted on Da Puba's weekly feature blog for his shortcomings, or will he redeem himself and prove he can not only be a winnah, but also "finish the job?" Projected average in 2009/2010 season: 172

Team 2 features:

Da Super - Having not bowled for years, Da Super returned to hostile territory as he was paired with none other than Da Puba. Despite dealing with Da Puba's wrath, Da Super did manage to learn a few things... only to revert back to his old methods every now and then. The dress rehearsal is over. The new season yields new (and higher) expectations. The potential is there (to bowl a 200 or to bowl a 91). But it falls on Da Super's desire and capacity to change his bowling style. Projected average in 2009/2010 season: 151

Da Puba - After pairing with Da Super and Da Judgie with many expecting failure, Da Puba showed that even he could make winners out of those that others are so quickly to discount. Sometimes, sheer will and determination can go a long way. Other times, it leads to implosion and utter annihilation. As in any other season, will Da Puba burst through to victory, or will he crash and burn, destroying everyone in his vicinity? Like Nitro, he is powerful, but extremely volatile. Projected average in 2009/2010 season: 185

Da Cheeze - After not being paired with Da Puba for two full seasons, Da Cheeze is at crossroads. Unable to temper his new ball and bowling style, he needs the helpful and analytical eye of Da Puba to keep him controlled. Fortunately for Da Cheeze, he and Da Puba reunite once again. Whereas Da Puba's temperament can be both polarizing and rewarding, Da Cheeze's raw power has to be harnassed and released at the right moment. Much like his favorite sport, F1, the KERS system can generate piercing, passing speed/power if used at the right time. At the wrong instant, someone has to scoop up the broken pieces. Projected average in 2009/2010 season: 171

Tuesday's CBC was rejuvenating... both for the team and myself.

Feeling weaken from my illness(es), I was only looking forward to getting through the night without fainting. Needless to say, I needed my teammates to rise up to the occasion more than ever. And it has been something that I have been preaching the last few weeks, especially to the Judgie.

This week, we faced Does It Matter? comprised of Albert "Slo-Mo," Robert "Boba" (man loves his tapioca drinks), and Ivan (no nickname, he just doesn't look very healthy even compared to sick ol' me).

Game 1 (Sucknutz)

Split and another split to open the game.

Puba: Damn it! Don't tell me it is going to be another one of those weeks.

Super is struggling as well. But Judge is showing signs of life. Good thing too, as it has been a while since the Judge was in overdrive. For the last three months, he's been on neutral.

Still, we get destroyed by 80+ pins as Boba and Slo-Mo go off!

Judgie: Come on T! We need you.
Puba:

Game 2 (Going Ballistic)

I knew the team needed me to step up to get out of our 2-2 funk each week. Feeling a little dehydrated, I purchased a LifeWater from the vending machine and proceeded to guzzle it down.

Yet, like everything in life, you can't run without walking first.

9 after 9 after 9 after 9 after 9. My blasted nemesis (the f'en 7 pin) stared me down, unfazed. So, frame after frame, the Puba unleashed his growing hatred in the form of fastballs at his target. At the end, I have to settle for a 179. Beats the 128 I shot in the 1st game.

The Judgie, however, is getting strikes any way and every way. His 218 game propels us to 65 pin victory. Overall deficit is down to 14 pins.

Game 3 (All cylinders kickin')

Momentum was on our side and we knew that we had to keep the pedal to the metal. Judgie starts off striking. The Puba settles for strikes and spares. The Super struggles out of the gate, but we're doing good.

Slo-Mo's game has deteriorated to nothing. Boba's magic came to a grinding halt. And well, poor Ivan just never got going.

To make matters worst, the Super finishes the 7th, 8th, and 9th with a turkey of his own. The Puba completes his comeback with a 194. And Judgie thunders for a 221 and his first 600-series in forever!

We destroy Does It Matter? by over 100 pins.

The 4 weeks of being 2-2 come to an end as we take 3 out of 4 games.

Wednesday - My busy furlough day

9 a.m. - open the door for the house appraiser. He likes what we did to the house.

10:00 a.m. - pick up my new weapon in the city. Brand new for half the cost. Can't beat that! I spend part of the morning joy-riding around the city and along the coast. The windows are down, the roof is open! Life is good!

12 p.m. - go to Fay Jai Wong's Kitchen with the Bush Baby for lunch. YUM!

3 p.m. - help my mother-in-law move into her remodeled home.

6:30 p.m. - dinner at Saha'ara in Burlingame. YUM!

The entire time, I keep looking at the sky and admiring how wonderful the weather and life is!

Since March 15, I've been battling the flu. And to make matters worst, I have to endure a second bout. The first was viral, the second is bacterial.

Let me chronicle this last week, so that I will cherish all the days I do feel good from now on:

Sunday, March 15 - I can tell I'm coming down with something. Yet, there are things I have to do (like help my mother-in-law move). So, knowing that I will be incapacitated shortly, I make it a point to get as much moving done as possible.

Monday, March 16 - Completely zapped. I spend the day lying on the couch. Unable to go to work, I instead try to be productive by groaning and moaning about how sh*tty it is I feel.

Tuesday, March 17 - I still feel like crap. However, the sun is out. So, I attempt to do a half day at work, only to learn that work (even half a day) takes a lot out of poor ol' me.

Wednesday, March 18 - A sneeze fest. My inability to cease sneezing causes one of the managers to send me home. Only was able to complete 6 of my 8 hours.

Thursday, March 19 - I think I'm feeling better, but I notice my phlegm/mucus is reverting back to green. Not good, not good at all. As a precaution, I choose to sit out of my two games on Thursday.

Friday, March 20 - The body aches return. I'm using two chairs at work to make a office bench while using my parka as a blanket. Two extra strength Tylenols are not doing diddly to control my fever. I bite the bullet and go to the hospital. After some x-rays, it is determined that I don't have pneumonia (phew!), but my viral influenza (Sunday - Wednesday) made me so weak that I was infected by bacteria. Now I have bacterial influenza. Good news is, antibiotics will do the trick.

Saturday, March 21 - I go to softball practice and try my best to be the player I am. Unfortunately, I'm only operating at 60%. Still, it was a good 60%. That just goes to show how locked in I am right now! In the afternoon, had lunch with Da Cheeze's in San Mateo. Later, during the evening, I attend a fundraiser for my mother-in-law's rotary club. The fundraiser is at the Chinese Recreation Center. It's been ages since I've been there and brought back a lot of childhood memories of the neighborhood.

Sunday, March 22 - I go to Moonstar to attend my friend's baby's 1st birthday. No appetite which may be a good thing since I always tend to overeat at these events.

Monday, March 23 - The antibiotics are working, but I noticed the body has shrunk. No gymkata for 9 days will do that to ya. I feel weak and am a little worried. I have two games on Thursday, and my season opens on Friday with the Swing Kids. So, I begin a light workout at home in hopes to regain some of the lost strength.

Tuesday, March 24 - My hunt for an ASA bat may finally come to an end. My newest acquisition:

Now, I need to find a way to break it in (even a little) by Friday. Tonight, I will, once again, have to emerge as the Grand Puba. Even in the Puba's weaken state, he is still a force to be reckon with.