Zee Out & About

Walking with Edward--New City!!

2011-10-04T22:45:00.000-07:00

My wonderful guy and I moved to Long Beach, CA about 3 months ago and we are enjoying our new city. With the purchase of the new house, comes a lot of new things and activities. We both love the fact that we are very close to our jobs and to many other cities. I used to live in the area about 2 years ago and I am enjoying the fact that I am BACK!!

Walking with Edward (my super puppy) in the new neighborhood has proven to be quite fascinating fun.

The images are in no particular order. I take pictures as I go and if I find something that draws my attention I snap a picture. All these pictures were taken with an iPhone Camera.

This is a "wall" composed of shrubbery and flowers. The neighbors wanted lots of privacy, so this tall plant ran along their wall.

The neighbors down the street, had planted fruit streets on the actual side walk. It was nice.

This is very important. The fence is mine. We had to let others know that my Super Puppy, who weighs in at 16 pounds of pure muscle can kick your little taco dog!!

Down the street, these neighbors had apples growing over their fence. Yum!! One of these days, I will climb the fence and take all their apples!! All of them, wuahahahahahahh

I think this is an avocado tree. Every house on my block and beyond has an avocado tree growing in their front, side, or back yards. Mine is still tiny!! Can't wait to make some fresh guacamole.

For some reason, this tree really fascinated me. It was just sooo straight.

Again, people growing fruits over the fence. If I didn't have a pomegranate tree already, this would be gone!!

Edward's new neighbor and friend. I call this little doggie, "Colitas". Colitas was very nice and he seemed to like Edward, which to me was shocking. Edward is nice, but likeable?, lol. Just kidding

This little dog will go down in history as Edward's arch nemesis. It's name,"Arch Nemesis". This little puppy owns the people down the street and as you can see, they have to take extra precautions when it comes to this dog. You do not want this ferocious beast to get over that fence!! You just don't wanna!!!

Edward posing for a picture.

We end this journey with Edward marking his territory. We are coming back and I am sure Edward wants to make sure he has been there and done that. :)

Thank you everyone for the time.

Cute Picture of September 2011

2011-09-30T14:03:00.000-07:00

This picture was floating around on FACEBOOK and it was so adorable, I had to put it on my blog.

I am doing okay. Mostly tired due to some medical issues, but I am doing what I am supposed to be doing and at the end of the month of October, I should have more information. For now, I feel good and hopefully, getting better as time goes by.

Zee

I want trees, fruit trees..........

2011-08-26T14:33:00.000-07:00

With the purchase of a house, I wanted to add some trees to the front and back yards. It's really sad to see that poor little lemon tree all lonely and sad in the back and nothing, save for some yellowish/green grass growing in the front.

Edward my superpuppy in the back yard with his one tree

What to I envy, what do I want? Like I said, more trees, more plants. This is my sister's home. My mother has done most of the planting since my sister does not have the time to do it since she works 5-6 days a week, just like me, but I am more like 6-7 days.

This is her back yard:

Kitty resting

Orange Tree

Lemon tree

Pommegranate (with the required kitty resting under it's branches)

Persimmons

Tomatoes

Apples

Figs

Hopefully, I will posting my before and after pictures of my back and front yards to show off my new trees and plants.

Funnies....cause I feel like laughing!!

2011-07-27T23:21:00.000-07:00

My Top 10 JOKES

Joke #10

I was in the restaurant yesterday when I suddenly realized I desperately
needed to pass gas. The music was really, really loud, so I timed my
gas with the beat of the music.

After a couple of songs, I started to feel better. I finished my coffee,
and noticed that everybody was staring at me....

Then I suddenly remembered that I was listening to my iPod.

Joke #9

I called your boyfriend gay and he hit me with his purse.

Joke #8

Englishman, Scottish man and Irishman selling bibles door to door, they have a bet who will sell the most in a day. They meet up at end of day and Englishman has sold 2, Scottish man had sold 3, but the Irishman who had a terrible stutter says hhhee hhhee hhhad sssold ssssixty. The other two asked how did he do it.
He said, "Wwwhen Iiiii nnnnnnknock aaaat thththe ddddooor I said: Do you wwwwwant tto bbbuy a bbbbbible ooooorrr shshshould Iiii jjjust rrrread it tttto yyyyou?"

Joke #7

An Irishman goes into the confessional box after years of being away from the Church. There's a fully equipped bar with Guinness on tap. On the other wall is a dazzling array of the finest cigars and chocolates.
Then the priest comes in. "Father, forgive me, for it's been a very long time since I've been to confession, but I must first admit that the confessional box is much more inviting than it used to be."
The priest replies: "Get out. You're on my side."

Joke #6

A divorce court judge said to the husband,"Mr Geraghty,I have reviewed this case very carefully and I've decided to give your wife $800 a week."
"That's very fair,your honour," he replied. "And every now and then I'll try to send her a few bucks myself."

Joke #5

My wife was dying. I was by her bedside. She said in a tired voice, "Theres something i must confess."
"Shhh" I said, "theres nothing to confess. Everythings alright."
"No i must die in peace. I had s*x with your brother, your best friend, his best friend and your father!"
"I know," I whispered "Thats why i posioned you, now close your eyes!!"

Joke # 4

2 cannibals having dinner.
1st says to 2nd, "Your wife makes a lovely stew."
2nd answers, "Yes but I will miss her."

Joke # 3

Womens are like computer virus...they ENTER your life...SEARCH your pocket...SHIFT your balance ...CONTROL your life...when you become an old version DELETE you from the system

Joke # 2

I was so depressed last night thinking about the economy, wars, jobs, my savings, Social Security, retirement funds, etc., I called the Suicide Lifeline.
I got a call center in Pakistan , and when I told them I was suicidal, they got all excited, and asked if I could drive a truck

the Number # 1 Joke:

The Top 25 Alabama Country Songs of All Time.....

25. Get Your Tongue Outta My Mouth 'Cause I'm Kissing You Goodbye
24. Her Teeth Was Stained, But Her Heart Was Pure
23. How Can I Miss You If You Won't Go Away?
22. I Don't Know Whether To Kill Myself Or Go Bowling
21. I Bought A Car From A Guy Who Stole My Girl, But It Don't Run, So We're Even
20. I Keep Forgettin' I Forgot About You
19. I Liked You Better Before I Knew You So Well
18. I Still Miss You, Baby, But My Aim's Getting Better
17. I Wouldn't Take Her To A Dog Fight, Cause I'm Afraid She'd Win
16. I'll Marry You Tomorrow But Lets Honeymoon Tonight
15. I'm So Miserable Without You, It's Like Having You Here
14. I've Got Tears In My Ears From Lyin' On My Back and Cryin' Over You
13. If I Can't Be Number One In Your Life, Then Number Two On You
12. I Haven't Gone To Bed With Any Ugly Women, But I've Sure Woken Up With a Few
11. Mama Get A Hammer (There's A Fly On Papa's Head)
10. My Head Hurts, My Feet Stink, And I Don't Love You
9. My Wife Ran Off With My Best Friend, And I Sure Do Miss Him.
8. Please Bypass This Heart
7. She Got The Ring And I Got The Finger
6. You Done Tore Out My Heart And Stomped That Sucker Flat
5. You're The Reason Our Kids Are So Ugly
4. If The Phone Don't Ring, You'll Know It's Me
3. She's Actin' Single and I'm Drinkin' Double
2. She's Looking Better After Every Beer

And the number 1 Alabama Country song of all time is

1. If I Had Shot You When I Wanted To, I'd Be Out By Now

My New Home 2011

2011-07-04T09:25:00.000-07:00

The years from 2009 to 2011, have been the hardest years to deal with in my life and also the years that have brough me great changes in my life, bad, good and great. I have gone from having my heart ripped out of my chest and stomped on many times over and over again, but at the same time, thanks to God, Family and Friends, I have been able to get back on my feet. God is good and I am happy to report that things are finally going well for me with minor set backs.

My wonderful partner and I have bought a home. It feels good to know that you can go home and have your babies surround you (pets) and at the same time know that they have enough room to run around and play. I love trees and roses, but the backyard has one single resident, a lemon tree. It has the biggest and juciest lemons I have ever tasted though!!

I will show the inside in another post. The kitchen is small, but its nice and cozy. The house is 3 bed/1 bath. I wanted 2 bathrooms, but we can always add one later. I can always dig a hole in the back, lol. Kidding!! Looking forward to moving this week and finally having enough room to breathe!!

Zee

Easter weekend with family

2011-05-02T20:55:00.000-07:00

Fonso and I spent the day with my sister, Lilly, her two kids, Matthew and Ethan, plus my mum.

Sunday April 24, 2011

Out and About Open Market, Ventura CA

2011-04-03T13:34:00.000-07:00

On Saturday April 2, 2011, my BF had a game to Umpire at Ventura County Community College.

When Fonso has a game, it takes from 2-3.5 hrs to complete. I usually take the time to go out and about to explore the different areas we visit. Thank God for my GPS system in the car.

Vendors had all types of wares to sell. I saw home made Pan Dulce, baptism dresses/suits for babies,vegetables old tools, religious images, etc.

At the end of the day, it was a tiring 156-Mile Round Trip drive, the tops of the mountains were covered in mist and the sky was cloudy. You could smell the rain coming.
I was happy though. We had dinner with Fonso's Umpire Partner, his girlfriend and two other friends at Winchester's Restaurant.

Out and About in Los Angeles, CA March 2011

2011-04-03T11:50:00.001-07:00

On a Sunday afternoon, I was driving around Los Angeles with my mother looking at different properties. I am in the market for a new house, but more about that later. on our return trip, we saw an open market right in the middle of one of the busiest streets of South Los Angeles, Florence Avenue The different sales booth and their merchandise.

Most of the items sold at this open market catered to the Latin Community

People in line with their families waiting for the hand made pupusas!

What I bought. Roasted corn, roasted peanuts and a cup of instant coffee.

All in all, I had a wonderful drive and a good time just getting to look at the different stuff sold.

I love horror movies

2010-09-09T22:04:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone, its been a while but I have been super super busy!! The Summer season is the busiest time for me at work. Updating my blog is the last thing on my list, IF I even put it on my to do list.

My topic for today? I love horror movies...and shoes...not in that order.

According to my search about the best horror movies:

Here are the top twenty according to a website.

20. 'Dracula' (1931)Even today, Tod Browning's film remains downright unnerving: the gothic cinematography, the sensual undercurrent, Lugosi's iconic portrait of elegant malice ("I never drink ... wine"). More than the novel or any other movie, 'Dracula' defined forever what we fear about vampires ... and what we love about them, too.

19. 'Evil Dead 2' (1987)Who says horror can't be hilarious? There's plenty of gruesomeness in Sam Raimi's cult classic -- ever see a man saw off his own hand? -- but there's also that priceless humor that plays off the absurdity of horror scenarios. It's a ridiculously fun film that tops 'An American Werewolf in London' as the best of its kind.

18. 'Carrie' (1976)It has a deceptively humble premise (shy girl with a crazy mom and supernatural powers just wants to fit in), but even in a pre-Columbine world, Brian De Palma's take on a Stephen King novel was enough to give teens and their parents nightmares. And in today's climate, it simply resonates with horror.

17. 'Invasion of the Body Snatchers' (1978)Philip Kaufman's flick about aliens bent on repopulating Earth with emotionless "pod people" packs an even more terrifying punch than the '56 original. Its bleak ending -- featuring a bug-eyed, screaming Donald Sutherland -- is enough to give grown men nightmares.

16. 'Night of the Living Dead' (1968)George A. Romero made a shocking entrance to B-movie fame with his black-and-white zombie thriller. It plays out almost like a documentary, with very little narrative -- the zombies just keep coming, they have an insatiable hunger for human flesh ... what more do you need to know?

15. 'The Blair Witch Project' (1999)Ingeniously marketed as a documentary -- its stars were listed as "missing and presumed dead" -- this indie grossed $240 mil and proved that eerie sounds, visceral camerawork and adhering to the less-is-more principle (we never see the witch) make for one hell of a harrowing flick.

14. 'The Bride of Frankenstein' (1935)The monster takes a wife -- and horror fans were invited to the reception. James Whale's compelling classic is the perfect marriage of poignant romance and creature discomforts. And as for the unholy union, turns out the couple was catastrophically mismatched.

13. 'A Nightmare on Elm Street' (1984)The ratty red-and-green sweater, the grotesquely burned visage, the glove made of knives, the ability to turn Johnny Depp into a puree of blood and guts: If ever a man was made to haunt dreams -- and murder people in them -- it was Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund).

12. 'Rosemary's Baby' (1968)Roman Polanski's deliciously paced thriller is part satanic horror, part paranoid delusion. We know something's not right with hubby (John Cassavetes), but isn't pregnant Rosemary (Mia Farrow) letting hormones get the best of her, suspecting everyone she meets? Nope, she's right. Never mind.

11. 'Frailty' (2002)Director-star Bill Paxton wields religious fanaticism like a blunt instrument -- or say, an ax -- as a father who enlists his young sons' help in carrying out "God's work," aka slaying sinners with the aforementioned ax. Taut, twisty and thrilling, the root of its terror lies in the fact that it's not so farfetched.

10. '28 Days Later' (2002)The zombie genre goes even darker in Danny Boyle's malevolent take, in which flesh-eating is a viral affliction and the stricken are possessed with rabid ferocity and superhuman speed. And though they're there, the sociopolitical undertones can just be ignored if you want your dread served up straight.

9. 'The Haunting' (1963)Multi-genre master Robert Wise ('Sound of Music,' 'The Set-Up') wasn't afraid of no ghosts, and he sure spooked the nation with this still-scary flick. The most definitive haunted house movie of them all, 'The Haunting' spawned 'Poltergeist,' 'Amityville' and, of course, countless episodes of 'Scooby-Doo.'

8. 'Dawn of the Dead' (1978)Nobody knows "dead" like George A. Romero, and the horror visionary followed up one classic zombie flick ('Night of the Living Dead') with what is easily his magnum opus: a scarier, sharper, ballsier and bloodier campaign of terror that succeeds as much as a piece of cultural commentary as it does a fright fest.

7. 'The Thing' (1982)John Carpenter's fright-fest is that unlikeliest of things -- a movie remake that's better than the original (a more suspenseful but less graphic 1951 black-and-white thriller). The shape-shifting-killer-alien sci-fi flick set a new benchmark for on-screen gore, and cemented Carpenter's rep as a master of horror.

6. 'The Sixth Sense' (1999)We loved the twist, but that's not what makes 'Sixth Sense' so chilling; this masterfully told ghost story does more with half-glimpsed images and fine acting than most horror films do with buckets of blood. When we wake up screaming in the dead of night, it's not Freddy Krueger we see ... It's Haley Joel Osment.

5. 'The Texas Chainsaw Massacre' (1974)No, it's not based on real events as advertised in the opening credits (that tricky Tobe Hooper!), but that doesn't make it less terrifying. This shocking low-budget scarer about limb loss in the Lone Star State set the stage for Michael Myers, Freddy and Jason, awful sequels and all.

4. 'The Shining' (1980)On the one hand, Stanley Kubrick's film is a drama of a father driven mad by inadequacy (Jack Nicholson, a little TOO good at playing crazy); on the other, it's a nightmarish landscape of dead twins, a possessed little boy and a naked woman who turns into a corpse. Either way, it'll scare the crap out of you.

3. 'Psycho' (1960)The shriek of violins, the flash of a knife, Janet Leigh's horrified face: The shower scene in 'Psycho' is perhaps the most terrifying scene in movie history, but Hitchcock's classic unnerves in countless other ways, from Norman Bates' creepy (yet oddly sympathetic) mama's boy to the film's final, shocking twist.

2. 'The Exorcist' (1973)Audiences in 1973 weren't just screaming at the sinister sights of this definitively classic yarn; some fainted or vomited, and one man even broke his jaw on the seat in front of him. We're still screaming 34 years later, even if there have been no further reports of physical damages. It's head-spinning, bed-shaking horror at its fines

1. 'Halloween' (1978)Oft-emulated but never equaled, John Carpenter's moody masterpiece is as terrifying today as it was 29 years ago. Vacant-eyed Michael Myers is soulless evil personified, the score bone-chilling, the cinematography eerily sublime and the overall impression unshakeable. Put simply, it is horror perfection.

I do agree that these movies are scary. #11 is one of my favorites movies. I love Bill Paxton. The twist at the end of the movie was absolutely fantastic and shocking. I would have placed it in the top 5 though.

The scariest movie are the ones that don't employ the need for gore. Such as, The Blair Witch Project. I loved that freaking movie and it showed nothing. The actors, the camera work..it all worked. Same story with, "Rosemary's Baby" and of course, "Pshycho", which in my opinion should have been NUMBER 1!!

The Fourth of July with the neighbors.....

2010-07-04T22:19:00.000-07:00

To most kids, the Fourth of July is not at all about the Independence of our Nation. If you ask any kid in the good US of A about it, they will tell you that it's the holiday with all the firecrackers!!

To all the kids who are going to end up with the nickname "stumpy", "no fingers" Joe, "Pointer jack", "exploding" Jesus, this post is dedicated to you and your obsession with mini dynamite sticks aka firecrackers.

I know I need to get more botox, no question about it, but I am thinking (as I hear loud exploding noises) wow, what a waste of money and powder just for one night!!

Fonso and his never ending playlist of songs that noone under the age of 100 likes. Thank you for the torture babes!!

The neighbors enjoying the light show.

Kristen realizing that Fonso is about to sit on her!! THE HORROR!!!

You could see the light show through the Jacaranda trees.

Kristen making fun of Fonso.

The Maywood Fair may 2010

2010-06-10T01:03:00.000-07:00

Update May 24, 2010------Shoe Freeeeeeeak Ridiculously High Heeled Shoes

2010-05-24T17:20:00.000-07:00

Whats wrong with this society where women think that wearing these ridiculously High Shoes makes you *trendy* and *with it*. I see celebrities in numerous magazines wearing ridiculously high heeled just for the sake of being fashionable.

You might think that I am going against my own preferences, but I am not. I love shoes. Always have, always will. It's like someone loving fashion. You are not going to wear a dress made of horse manure, just because its the "in thing" to do. Fashion has its limits (in my humble opinion) and shoes should have theirs too. Why do we promote these ugly monstrosities for the sake of fashion?

Why do we want to looks ridiculous...why do we want to fall and break our ankles..makes no sense. Here are my list of freakishly ugly shoes that I would not wear, even if Dave Matthews liked them (OK, maybe for a second!!!)

No words can describe what I am thinking when I see these shoes, except, WTF?

Maybe for a Halloween Costume?

Whoever this is stole Minnie Mouse's shoes!! FOR SHAME!!!

Lindsay Lohan wears these shoes, I should too, lol. NO!! NO!! NO!! She is a drunk who falls on her ass all the time. She should not wear these shoes. She is going to end up in Intesive Care!!

Yeah, nail a couple of Rail road spikes on a pair of shoes and voila!! We have the latest fashions!!

Carve some shoes out of clay and here you go a pair of high fashion, ultra trendy shoes.

Stilts anyone?

Instead of the ridiculous, I would rather wear these shoes than let anyone, specially a celebrity tell me that the above shoes are worth wearing!!

Catching up with Zee, Feb-March 2010

2010-03-06T11:06:00.001-08:00

I have been very very busy for the past couple of months and I realized about a month ago that I have not kept up with my blog since January 2010. I have also been very busy with work and with personal issues.

My updates are not in order:

I am still working long hours. I have a new Assistant. She is in this picture with her boyfriend. We are at Dodger Stadium on a Field Trip. We had a great time. Feb. 28

One of my work Spouses. Edmund.

I am still in love with my babies. Robyn, my little gray girl sleeps on my bed every night. I think she senses that I need the company.

Edward sleeping on my bathrobe. He made himself too comfortable. lol

I went blonde! After going through so many emotional issues, looking cute makes me feel better.

I still hate hate for people to go out in public in their pyjamas. If I have to shower and get dressed in the morning, I expect the same of everyone else.

My mum's bday was on the 27th of Feb. She turned 60 yrs young. The boyfriend (more about him below) and I took her out to lunch, beauty salon for a new haircut and color, shopping trip and I gave her cash. She had a great time. It was raining that day and when I was coming out from one of the stores a guy pointed out that there was a rainbow after it stopped raining. It was beautiful!

Robyn sleeping on my bed! I love it.

LOL. who the hell wears this?

I bought this apple at Costco and it was the best tasting apple in the world!! I had to take a picture of it.

The sun peeking out from the clouds after a heavy storm. It's beautiful.

I bought a "car" for my baby nephew Tristen. He loves his new transportation. He is only 7 months old and he is taking baby steps. My mother, who takes care of him during the week, loves his little walker because it keeps him active and gives her a chance to rest her back and her arms because like all babies, Tristen loves to be carried.

On the 14th of Feb., Valentine's Day, the boyfriend, AG, sent me this flower arrangement.

The boyfriend. He is a great guy. He understands my crazy schedule and I understand his. We are both overworked, lol. I have no complaints, we love to be around each other and my mother approves of him.

That's about it with updates. I will try and post more often.

Thanks

Z.

Boyfriend of the Week: Kevin Durand

2010-01-24T17:01:00.000-08:00

And the boyfriend of the week is none other than Kevin Durand from the movie Legion. He played an Angel. Click on his name to read about him.

Congratulations Kevin, you are Zee's boyfriend of the week.

Z.

At the movies January 2010

2010-01-24T16:48:00.001-08:00

Went to the movies to see:
LEGION with a former boyfriend of the week, Paul Bettany

The movie was okay, his performance was great, the entire concept of the movie sucketh!! I guess he wanted to do an action film, he did. I guess he liked it because he was offered the part of PRIEST. When I first read about the movie, I read that it was based on a Japanese Manga, but wikipedia says NO. I will go with that for now.

Happy New Year To All-2010 is my YEAR

2010-01-09T15:39:00.000-08:00

Sorry I have been neglecting my blog. I got sick on the 31st with a bad case of VERTIGO. I have gone to my doctor and a specialist. I have a few more tests to go, so that should be fun, NOT!

I did not go out on the 31st to Celebrate the Coming of the New Year, instead, I stayed home in bed. I fell asleep after midnight since I was waiting for the coming of the New Year to make its presence on the West Coast.

On the 1st day of the New Year, two of my friends took me out...it was nice, but my vertigo was still going full force. I have not worn any of my high heels since then.

On the 2nd, I went with my cousin to see the movie, AVATAR. I have seen the movie twice and its one of the greatest movies I have ever seen. The visual and special effects are GRAND!! I had not seen my cousin in almost 8 years. It was fantastic to see her!!

That was the extent of my adventures. I am still feeling poorly, but with vertigo, it has to go away on its own and there is no medication for it.

Cant wait to see this movie. I love PAUL BETTANY

My accomplishment for 2009: My nephew and I put together a tv stand. Edward kept getting in the way. I guess he helped in his own little Super Puppy Way:

Walking with Edward in Los Angeles

2009-12-31T14:20:00.001-08:00

I am spending New Year's Eve with my sisters in Los Angeles, CA. For some reason, I was down this morning, but my walk with Edward took some of that away. This is one of my last posts of 2009! May everyone have a Happy New Year. I know that I am looking forward to 2010. I want to leave all the bad things in 2009.

Here are some pictures of me and Edward Walking in LA! (Edward is missing from my pixs since he kept running away from me).

This is my little girl Robyn. She enjoys being at home and having her little chin(s) caressed!

Lazy butt sister Maya

Factories in LA. Saw it during my walk with Edward

The Hostess Factory in Los Angeles. Edward and I followed the scent and we saw it. It smelled like Twinkies baking!

Enjoying my Walk with Edward After a stop at Starbucks. Edward enjoyed a fresh cup of water and half of my sandwich.

With my nephew in Los Angeles

updating my blog on my wonderful notebook lap top

My sister Lilly resting along with my nephew before going out tonight to Celebrate the New year with her husband.

Edward during his walk

Boyfriend of the week December 2009

2009-12-30T15:07:00.000-08:00

The Boyfriend of the final week of 2009 is none other than SAM NEILL.

One of my favorite actors of all time, from Jurassic Park to Daybreakers coming out in 2010. Sam Neill is now, my boyfriend of thew week.

Christmas with the Aguilars 2009

2009-12-29T22:30:00.000-08:00

Keeping with tradition, we had our annual family christmas gathering at my older brother's home in Palmdale, CA. All the siblings and our families gathered for the event. It was really great. I always have such a great time.

Me with my siblings and mother. Left to Right: Lilly, Maya, Mum,Robert, Me and Peter.

with my siblings:

with my baby brother Peter:

My the best guys in the world, by big bro and little bro:

My sister in law and her daughter:

My big bro, his wife and Tristen their nephew.

Kids opening presents:

My Niece Michelle:

Kids:

My mother with the grandkids:

Mother and sons:

our little kangaroo in his pouch:

Going to Latin Land for Tamales Ingredients...

2009-12-24T22:37:00.000-08:00

On Xmas eve, my mother decided to make tamales to take for our Annual Family gathering at my brother's home in Palmdale, CA. My older brother had also asked her to make him a few tamales. Mind you, my mother is not the best cook around, but she put forth the effort and somehow I was included in this tamale adventure. If you do not know what tamales are click HERE

We went to a store called "El Super". It basically had all the Latin American foods and spices you would ever want.
Going to the Store for banana leaves. Mostly used in the preparation (wrapping) of tamales.

Spices

corn husks, also used to wrap tamales. Mostly used in the preparation of corn tamales.

My mother (in the gray coat) looking over the spices and getting confused.

Tortillas and Sweet bread...I was in carb/sugar heaven!!

The store had tons and tons of french bread!! I had no idea why until I was reminded by my mother that one of the huge traditions in Central America are "Panes". "Panes" are made by stuffing a french roll like a sandwich, traditionally with chicken cooked with lots of spices. The sandwich also include freshly chopped radishes and water cress. This tradition is huge! I had forgotten about it.

This is a Mexican treat. This is dried hibiscus flowers. Its made into a drink. I have never had it but I have been told its delicious!

Dried Tamarind is known throughout Central America and Mexico. The tamarindo is peeled then soaked in water until the pulp softens, add sugar and you have one of the best drinks ever made. Its one of my favorite drinks. You can also eat the pulp, but its soooooo sour!

Who needs bread crumbs at xmas? The biggest *concha* I have ever seen!! They are usually made smaller. Shells (concha in English) is a well known Mexican sweet bread.

More sweet bread.

This is the dough for the Tamales. We did not need any because my mother made her own from store bought corn meal. Yeah mother.
The deli was absolutely heavenly. I love love cheese. Dry cheese, moist cheese, mexican cheese, central american cheese..........................................
You can read the labels and see what these delicious treats are all about! Yummy yummy in the tummy!

Pickled pork skin and pickled pigs' feet
What we ended up buying.
The big red/white package is lard. You cannot make tamales without lard!

Stuffing for tamales!
The masa (dough) for the tamales

Edward (the super puppy) and Robyn (my girlie cat) get the leftovers.

Walking With Edward

2009-12-24T22:25:00.001-08:00

I had a very busy day today. I got up at 7:30 AM. It was a chilly day here in California. I fed Edward my Super Puppy and after, we went for a walk!

This bird up on the light post was making some funny noises. Dont know what kind of bird it was.

Look how big this tree was! Edward and I decided to get on it just to feel how big it was.

We always encounter other Super Puppies who wanted to kill me and Edward. This morning was no different.

My baby bro and his clan

2009-12-20T16:53:00.001-08:00

My baby bro came by yesterday to wish me a Happy Bday. He brought with him, his baby Tristen and his 2 daughters! He bought me an ice cream cake.

On the cake he wrote: "Zee you are not over the hill yet" So sweet!!

Family picture. He is just adorable (My baby nephew, not my mean bro, lol)

Birthday Poems And Other funnies!

2009-12-19T14:51:00.000-08:00

Birthday Reminder

It's your birthday, so don't feel down;
Don't think bad stuff and frown;
Your life should be filled with mirth;
Just look what you've done since your birth.

You started out really small,
Now you're really filled out and tall.
In the beginning you would just cry,
Now you can laugh if you try.

You've done quite well since your start,
So as you grow older take heart;
Keep up the good work and don't be a jerk;
Stay happy till you're an old fart.

By Karl Fuchs

Her Birthday Surprise

A couple had been debating the purchase of a new auto for weeks. He wanted a new truck. She wanted a fast little sports-like car so she could zip through traffic around town. He would probably have settled on any beat up old truck, but everything she seemed to like was way out of their price range.

"Look!" she said. "I want something that goes from 0 to 200 in 4 seconds or less. And my birthday is coming up. You could surprise me."

So, for her birthday, he bought her a brand new bathroom scale.

Services will be at Downing Funeral Home on Monday the 12th. Due to the condition of the body, this will be a closed casket service. Please send your donations to the "Think Before You Say Things To Your Wife Foundation," Dallas, Texas.

Birthday at work:
My boss bought me and another co-worker a cake during our Company Dinner. Very Sweet of him to do so.

I always post a birthday post, not only because I believe its a blessing to be allowed to live another year, but to also remind me that time passes...the way we change...not only our physical make up, our ideals and our lives.

Shoes...what better gift can you give yourself?

2009-12-15T17:08:00.000-08:00

My Bday is in about 4 days and I have decided to buy one of the following pair of shoes...I love platform shoes and one of these would be perfect. I will make my decision tomorrow morning, but I am sooooo excited...its going to go on my credit card..cause I is broke..lol.

The Breakfast Club

2009-12-13T21:36:00.001-08:00

So I was watching the Showtime Series Dexter one of my favorites shows. I don't watch much tv and I got Direct TV so that I could watch this season of good ol' Dex. It was worth every freaking penny I spent. I love it. I was very happy with the Season Finale. I dont know if it was a dream sequence or if they are going to keep the story line...it would be cool if they did.

As I type this, I was flipping channels and I came accross and Oldie The Breakfast Club. I was in love with the school's bad boy, Judd Nelson.

I am having a good nite. I am happy.

Z.

Boyfriend of the Week

2009-12-10T17:08:00.000-08:00

For the boyfriend of the week, I have chosen my friend Armie. Armie and I have been friends for over 6 years. We met when we both worked for the a hotel in Downtown Los Angeles, CA. We both lived in Korea Town and we had never met, which was funny because we lived like 5 minutes from each other and we used to frequent the same Super Market!!! After we met at work, we became good friends. Our lives have gone in separate directions and separate paths since leaving the place of employment that brought us our friendship.

To this day, Armie continues to be in my life. This year has been very difficult for the both of us. Our friendship has gone through many turbulent times, but in the end, our friendship and mutual respect for each other have endured.

So to Armie, You are my boyfriend of the week.

Whhooooooooosssssssshhhhhh .....SWING

2009-12-09T16:35:00.000-08:00

My 4 month old nephew Tristen was feeling poorly and cranky this morning. He got his vaccinations yesterday. I held the poor baby this morning and he was not happy.

My sister got him a little swing..he loves it. He finally smiled. I need to get a swing for the staff at work. When they get cranky, they can just get on it and swing...

Happy Baby, Finally!

The Office Christmas Tree

2009-12-09T16:09:00.000-08:00

This is our office Christmas tree. Everything on it is donated. The tree was donated to us by one of the coaches. We had the idea to print pictures of our current and former staff members and add them to the tree.

I think it looks great and since we are a non-profit, we saved ourselves a bunch of cash. The big picture on top of the tree is of one of our staff members who complained that we had forgotten to put his picture up and he was hurt. Hopefully, this made up for it.

In case you were wondering where my picture was located on the tree.

Rain Rain Rain....Beautiful Rain...

2009-12-07T21:52:00.001-08:00

Rain

I opened my eyes
And looked up at the rain,
And it dripped in my head
And flowed into my brain,
And all that I hear as I lie in my bed
Is the slishity-slosh of the rain in my head.

I step very softly,
I walk very slow,
I can't do a handstand--
I might overflow,
So pardon the wild crazy thing I just said--
I'm just not the same since there's rain in my head.

--Shel Silverstein

Today was a beautiful rainy day. It was a beautiful day, but I wish it was Sunday and not Monday...I would have loved to have stayed in bed, sipping hot soup from a cute mug, snuggled in my soft cuddly blankets. I would have asked my guy to call in to work and taken the day off. I wish I could have done the same.

Instead, I had to get on the Freeway and go to work. I am fortunate that I don't have to be at work until 9:30 AM. The rain was pouring...I was able to go to Starbucks..get a cheese platter (cheese and fruit) and a large venti reg. coffee. That made my day, my beautiful rainy day, more memorable. I enjoyed it.

The rainy parking lot

I made the mistake of wearing sandals to work this morning. My feet were ultra cold.
As I got out of the car, with no umbrella, the rain coming down, I turned my face toward the sky and thought how lucky I was to experience such a blessing.

Walking and Talking

2009-12-06T22:23:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, my best friend and I decided to take Edward (my super puppy) for a long walk along the beach. Edward had never been to the beach (that I know of). It was very cold and the wind was really kicking! Sorry for the crappy pictures, The iPhone doesn't take very good pictures at night.

My friend and I drove to Santa Monica Beach. I had not been there in years, but it was absolutely beautiful! I could see The Santa Monica Pier from the parking lot where we parked. The beach was desolate because of the weather. I did something very bad! I had Edward on a leash, but I let him go so he could run on the sand. Run he did. I ran after him. We had so much fun.

THE SANTA MONICA PIER FROM THE PARKING LOT:

MY FRIEND AND EDWARD:

ZEE AND EDWARD:

Edward had a fantastic time. He was very excited to be out in such a wide open space! I need to take him to the beach more often. It's far but worth seeing my Super Puppy so happy!

Boyfriend of the week...

2009-12-06T21:57:00.000-08:00

The Boyfriend of the week is Mr. Tim Robbins

I became a huge fan after I saw him in The Shawshank Redemption

I absolutely love tall guys. Probably because I am only 5 feet 2.5 inches tall. I found out that Tim Robbins is an impressive, 6 feet 5 inches tall.

So to Mr. Robbins, Congratulations, you are my Boyfriend of the week.

Farmers Market--Los Angeles

2009-12-03T15:57:00.000-08:00

The Farmers Market in Los Angeles, is located right smack in the middle of Los Angeles. It boasts The Grove. Which is a big mall adjacent or connected to Farmers Market. I love this area. Its usually really crowded, but its so beautiful!!

EATING AT FARMERS MARKET

FARMERS MARKET

THE GROVE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

During the holidays, the Grove Mall is home to one of the biggest xmas trees in town. I saw it once, but unfortunately because of the crowds and the lack of parking in the area, I have only seen the tree once! It is huge and absolutely beautiful.

THE GROVE TROLLEY

I have actually been on the Trolley and its really nice. It takes you all around the Grove Mall. I forgot to mention that they also have live bands.

THE GROVE FOUNTAIN

Kimkins Diet

2009-12-03T15:42:00.001-08:00

I have read and re-read the different opinions through the two years that the Kimkins diet was made famous.

I have read about people getting sick, getting too thin, or just developing eating disorders...blah blah.

When the diet was mentioned in one of my support groups, I decided to investigate all about it...I did the research, I even paid about $40.00 then, to join the group.

This is the way I see it, so please do not hate me for stating my opinion. If you have a gun and bullets...plus instructions, are you going to use it to shoot yourself? Of course not, so if you see that a diet is not working for you and you claim its making you sick, why in heavens name do you continue with it.

STOP DOING IT!!!

Kimkins Diet

Z.

Boyfriend of the week November 2009

2009-11-29T19:02:00.000-08:00

This week, I have chosen, John Lithgow as the boyfriend of the week. I have loved him forever and ever. I remember seeing him in the Movie, "Raising Caine", "the Twilight Zone" Movie, "3rd Rock from the Sun" and countless other movies and tv shows.

I am a huge fan of the Showtime TV Series Dexter and have not missed a season yet. This Season, I was surprised, in a nice way, to find out that Mr. Lithgow was going to be on the show as a serial Killer, called Trinity, because they thought he killed in 3's, but he actually kills in 4's. Does that mean the name should be changed to Quadruple? or maybe Cuatrople?

He is also a great musician and he writes childrens' books. Mr. Lithgow, Boyfriend of the week. He deserves this honor.

A trip to the Grocery Store November 2009

2009-11-29T13:58:00.000-08:00

Sunday morning and the unavoidable trip to the Grocery Store had to be taken. Usually, I just give my mother money and she goes on her own, but I also wanted to take a trip to the Home Depot to get a mint plant...so I decided to go too. Grocery shopping is a thorn on my side, a bane to my existence! lol. That's how much I dislike it.

All vegetables are over priced. Due to the holidays, my mother decided that Yams are something that are needed this time of year, just like pumpkins are needed for Halloween.

Now, plantains are a staple in Central American cooking. My mother likes to slice and fry the ripe plantains and eat them with re-fried beans and sour cream.

1-Things You'll Need:
2-Ripe plantains
3-Vegetable cooking oil
4-pan
5-fork
6-knife for slicing
7-Optional: salvadorean sour cream

Directions:

1Fill pan with enough cooking oil so that the whole pan is covered about 1/2 inch. You must have enough oil (but not too much) to fry the slices so that they still come out soft and not crispy. Heat oil.

Step 2 While the oil is heating, take knife and cut both ends of plantain. Cut plantain in half and carefully cut the peel in the middle so that when you remove it you will have a nice plantain peel to cover the ones that are done.

Step 3 Cut plantain halves into slices, like you would for a sundae, and place slices carefully into hot oil. Let fry for a few minutes until you see bottom of slice turn brown, that is when you know to turn it over with a fork or other utensil used for turning without making the oil splatter, and do the same on the other side.

Step 4 As you take out the dark brown slices, place in a plate with a paper towel on it and cover with the peel. Let them cool for a few minutes then enjoy with some salvadorean sour cream, as a side dish with your eggs in the morning or as is. Enjoy.

My mother at the Grocery Store:

Walking with Edward Nov. 28, 2009

2009-11-28T12:54:00.001-08:00

Today as usual, Edward and I took our morning walk. It was a nice windy morning and I loved it. You can tell that Fall is in full swing!! The sun was shining, the dead leaves falling and the flowers swaying!

Flowers:

House for sale. I dont know how much its selling for, but I love it.

This is another house that was for Rent: It was big and really spacious! Houses like that rent for over 2 Grand.

More Guava Trees:

My Edward and my shadow.

Edward and his new pal, lil' Killer Dog, lol

As usual I enjoyed (or should I say enjoy) walking with Edward. Every step I take, every sight I see, reminds me how lucky I am to be alive!!

Z.

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-27T12:52:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving 2009, my brother Robert and family hosted the Thanksgiving Dinner. It was a very special occasion since I had not seen him or his family in months! We talk on the phone often enough, but its not the same as getting an embrace in person! We had a fantastic time.

This is us. From Left to right: My mother, my brother Robert, Me and my brother's son Steene.

One of the invited guest of the evening, the Ham. We ran out of pineapple so I used pears in syrup. I have never cooked any meals for thanksgiving...I rely on others to cook for me and on Mary Calendar's. They have a great Thanksgiving package.

This is my nephew Matthew.

My brother's sons, Shelten and Steene.

Us again. This time including my sister Lilly (red dress).

I unfortunately, did not take any more pictures...there were other members of the family, but was too happy consuming mojitos to take more pixs. Next time!

Z.

Edward the Fashion Designer

2009-11-23T21:18:00.000-08:00

My wonderful Edward decided that I should wear more fashion forward clothing...

This morning, he decided to alter my very expensive cashmere top. He decided that the shredded look was in...

Edward, fashion designer, forward thinking canine, best friend, my pet companion...
I love you but I hate your fashion sense!

Z.

Walking in LA, Walking in LA, Nobody walks in LA

2009-11-22T19:15:00.000-08:00

I started walking back in July of this year (2009). Today, I was joined by my best friend Armand. I have been thinking about buying a property in Los Angeles and the neighborhood where we were was pretty affordable with houses under $200,000.00. Everytime I walk, I take pictures. I love my iPhone because I don't really like carrying a bulky camera with me.

As we were walking, I took notice that there were a lot of Guava Trees around. I love Guavas and I have seen them in every shape and size.

I liked the fact that we saw a lot of fruit trees every where we went.

On one block, there was a house being remodeled. It looks like they stripped everything out. It was a small house. I found out that it was being sold for $161,000.00. But it was too small. Tiny bedrooms and tiny back yard.

This is another house we saw. It was boarded up. It was very nice, but I did not like the fact that it was a corner lot. I liked the garage on the side.

This is my friend Armand infront of the house.

The backyard needs a lot of TLC

Armand showing off his hairy chest, lol.

An alley we saw during our walk. The neighborhood looks pretty safe. A lot of the houses need a little bit of TLC since they have been abandoned or re-posessed by the banks. A lot of homeless people, are living inside these houses or in the backyards like we saw in the picture above.

This little doggie was ready to kill us, lol.

Thats our walk in LA. More to come...

V is for....... Remake

2009-11-02T14:09:00.000-08:00

I was watching a reruns of this TV Series last night.
V The Original TV Series

It was being aired because it was remade and its being shown on TV November 03, 2009. I dont think anybody in Hollywood has come up with any original ideas in a long time!!! Even music is being sampled and re-made!!

Here is Diana-

I cant find the picture of her eating a mouse...classic 80's moment!!

More "V" PIXS:

I loved the series as a kid, I hope they do it justice in the remake.

Z.

Edward needs glasses.........

2009-10-31T15:04:00.001-07:00

Edward was looking at me all weird the other day...but then, thats the way I looked before I had
Lasik Surgery. Look at his cute squinty eyes. Is there such a thing as a Pet Optometrist?

Halloween Pumpkins

2009-10-28T11:24:00.000-07:00

Don't leave alcohol near your pumpkins!

My behind is following me......

2009-10-23T11:42:00.000-07:00

The other day, I decided to photograph myself NAKED! Hard thing to do by the way. It was NOT a pretty sight!

I have been trying to lose the weight I picked up during the summer. The Summer is the busiest time at work and eating right is not something I worry about! So I picked up a couple of pounds and I have finally lost most of it..still working on the rest...

Looking at my naked pixs really made me realize that some of my stuff is not the way it used to when I was younger...dimples dimples dimples! lol

Z.

Hats Hats Hats...The Fashion Show 2009

2009-10-13T18:31:00.001-07:00

I took my mother out and about two weeks ago. I try to do that once in a while. It helps with our relationship and she loves going out! So why not. I took her for a nice pedicure then to the mall so that she could buy a pair of pants she wanted.

This is me in the store entertaining myself:
I have named this:

THE HAT FASHION SHOW 2009

GREEN HAT

PINK HAT

WHITE BIRD HAT

NEWS BOY CAP

THE OUI, I AM NOT FRENCH HAT

THE MOBSTERS BEWARE HAT

THE CHURCH HAT

AFTER my mother and I headed out to dinner. I took her to our favorite Salvadoran Restaurant. It was fabu!

Here's my mum:

This is me sitting right across from her. I look horrible. My boobs look huge!! I do have to admit that I got the big nose from my mum and the big boobs from my father. lol.

We had a great time!

Z.

Boyfriend of the week

2009-10-07T11:29:00.000-07:00

I am re-designing my blog, so please forgive the inconvenience...

For the boyfriend of the week, I have chosen my wonderful (60% of the time) and amazing (40% of the time) Administrative Assistant/Event Coordinator Darren.

Darren take a bow you are the best (80% of the time!)!