One of my favorite singers, Neil Young, learned in the 1970s that he must constantly shift the artistic direction of his music to prevent becoming stagnant and rusting away. You and I also must keep moving forward to stay ahead of the continuous onslaught of time and age! Taking care of our bodies and remaining rust free is something some people have neglected earlier in their … [Read more...]
Nothing Rough About This Guide
One of my favorite activities since retiring to the Philippines is sharing about this fabulous country, the wonderful Filipino people and their vibrant culture. As one friend told another friend when we had gotten together one day, "Don't get Gary started!" I think that pretty much sums it up, as I love writing and actually talking about the Philippines! The best cities, the … [Read more...]
The Art Of Making Noise!
"Let's Get Loud" is one of one of our cousins' favorite songs and she sings it exactly like the original artist. I also enjoy the song and I think that could be one of the theme songs of the Philippines. Yes, amigos, there is noise here and it isn't going away because it has been around the last 28 years that I know about. I am sure the noise was here long before I arrived on … [Read more...]
Expats In The Philippines Thrive!
When I go out to the malls and the restaurants in Greater Bacolod, I see more expats in the Philippines are gathering and joining us all the time! The word is spreading and catching on that this part of the world is a great place to retire, live, do business and even raise children. If you are not interested in doing business and if you do not have plans to raise children, this … [Read more...]
Prepare For A Long Wake
My father in law passed away on June 8 at age 84 after an extended illness. With relatives spread out in Manila, Zambales, Guimaras and in both southern and northern Negros Occidental, the funeral is not until Saturday, June 21. I was asked to be one of the speakers at the funeral service. It is a sad time but for me, I am happy that Tatay is no longer suffering and wasting … [Read more...]
The Catfish Hunter
One of my favorite foods of all time is battered and deep fried catfish. Served with enriched hominy grits, deep fried hush puppies and Cole slaw, it just doesn't get any better than that on my dinner plate! We can get all the ingredients needed in Bacolod City to prepare my favorite, complete with the side dishes. My wife has long been opposed to preparing catfish in the … [Read more...]
Lift Up Every Stone!
As I have often related, there are more Filipinas than some may realize who do not have any interest whatsoever to living in the USA, not even for 5 years to qualify for her American husband's Social Security benefits. No, not for any amount of money, as they are perfectly happy living in the Philippines! My wife told me early on, as our relationship blossomed for 20 months … [Read more...]
Death Conquered The Streets
There's a man going around taking names but everyone is not treated the same way! If you are a criminal in Davao City, you are on very dangerous ground! I remember when colorful mayor Rody Duterte was first elected as Mayor of Davao City way back in 1988 and yes, I was in the Philippines at that time. Word has it that Mayor Duterte held a press conference the day he was sworn … [Read more...]
Seeds For Life
I have told you before that 1 hectare of land in the Philippines can feed a family of 4 for the entire year! This hectare will produce more than enough fruit, vegetables, dairy products and meat for your family. You will even have a surplus to sell in the market or for storing. It is up to you or you can be generous and give some of the produce away to needy families in the … [Read more...]
Time Is On Your Side
Back in 2009 when my wife and I decided to retire to the Philippines, one of her main concerns about me was what I would do with my time! I assured her that I had time on my side and no need to be concerned with my getting bored in the Philippines, as that will never happen! Yet, I realized her concern was real. We know Americans who retired and passed away within a year of … [Read more...]