two:thousand:eleven

What a year it has been. I can't believe how fast it went by. I can't say that all my dreams were fulfilled but I'm still here so I guess I did better than a lot of people. Almost exactly one year ago today I decided to create a blog. Who me? I don't know anything about writing. I can barely make proper sentences when I speak, let alone write something for human consumption. A friend of mine named Kimberly, was telling me that she had decided to start a blog. What you have to know is that Kim went to school to for this. She edits manuscripts in her spare time. The only thing I learned in school was how to hustle. I figured no one would read this. I started with the obvious.

Number 1

Yay!! We made it to the top of the list. I know Spook is dying to know what the top Ghettoblaster story was for 2011. The thing is he already knows. I think this one had a boost in readership, because at least 3 people reposted it on Facebook. This one even managed to get one of the guys I wrote about yelled at. I thought I was the only one that got in trouble with their mom for my writing. I guess it was the feel good story of the year because it was about people you know and because they were funny stories that some of us still remember.

I dedicate this one all my friends near or far, dead or alive. May God give me the life and strength to write all of our life stories. Much love and positive energy for the coming year.

The Little Rascals

DaPhukWuzDat???????

So, I'm on the green line this morning on my way to work. As usual, the seats are littered with Express newspapers. So people are headed to works, others are doing the tourist thing. I'm already paranoid of many things so I'm mean mugging everyone and keeping my hand tucked under my coat. I never make eye contact.

Number 2

Wow tomorrow is New Year's Eve. Too bad I have to work early Sunday, so I won't be able to party it up. Unfortunately with the work I do, I seldom have opportunities to stay up all night drinking. Most of the time I have to be in by 7pm. When I do want to let it all hang out, I have to plan and schedule specific days off.

Back in April I did just that. Originally, supposed to be a cookout, turned into a game night with the fellas and and friends. It was a blast. The next morning was not so great. Still one of the best times I had in 2011.

I'll never drink again.... this week

Number 3

Tick tock tick tock. 2012 is just a few days away. Are you ready? Are you sure. I don't think you are. I suggest that the first thing you should do is think of all the bad things that happened to you in 2011. Forgive the people that wronged you and leave all the negativity behind you. Don't bring that negative energy with you to the new year.

Forget resolutions. They never come true. You have a better chance of learning another language than sticking to your resolutions. Not to say that you can't accomplish what you set your mind to. The problem is, most of us say "I will do this this and this" and expect for it to just happen. If you haven't run a day in your life, you can't start jogging on January 1st. You will strain something, feel like shit the next day, and be discouraged to continue. If you smoke, you need to be prepared to quit. Whether it means reading, using cessation aides, or even getting help from your doctor. You cannot turn it off. Nicotine is a drug, and like any drug your body will react to deprivation.

The key to "sticking with it" is planning. Sit down and make a list of the things you want to change in the new year. Then create a timeline for each goal. Set (realistic) short term goals and check yourself. For instance if you want to lose weight. Don't go all P 90x in the first week. Do some research. Find out what diet suits you. Get rid of the things that will temp you and stock up on healthy filling snacks. Start slow alternating rest and exercise. As far as pounds go, weigh in once a week, and keep a journal. Remember not everyone loses weight at the same pace. The first 10 or so pounds will melt off, after that it will go slower. Stay positive and you will see results.

Now, back to why we are here. The 3rd most read story on Ghettoblaster is Son of a Farmer - Julio Guerrero - The Nicaragua years. This was one of my favorite story to write. It's about my favorite person in the world, my dad. It chronicles his life in Nicaragua before a civil war changed his destiny. I grew up listening to these stories over and over again. It was nice to revisit them and share them with my readers.

 Son of a Farmer - Julio Guerrero - The Nicaragua years

Number 4

We're with in the top 5 now. I understand why the remainder of the countdown is what it is, but this story surprised me by it's popularity. I wasn't writing about anything important to me like friends and family. I was a bit drunk late one night. The TV was on so I started to rattle off about things. I read it now and it's almost funny. For some reason my reader's loved it.

Late night whiskey fueled rant

Numer 5

It's crazy but I forgot to post my 5th most read blog yesterday. The ironic part is that I was hanging with the person that the blog was about. My  brother Spook was in town for the holidays. He knew that I would be disappointed if he left and we didn't make time to sit down with good food, drinks, and conversation.

So here it is How do I say goodbye?

Number 6

The last couple of days have been full of food fun and family. I really enjoyed the good food and laughs. Now I have two more days to recover before I go back to work.

Today on the countdown is Antiquing is my new best friend. This past summer my wife and I started spending a lot of time in the neighborhood thrift stores. At first it was just a way of filling my free time and not over spending. Then it became a serious hobby. I guess my addiction for thrifting also started because I discovered a show on the History channel called American Pickers. Basically these two guys, Mike and Frank, travel the country digging through peoples barns and homes for cool old stuff to buy and later resell.

My dad has been a lover of thrifting and antiquities for a long time. I always sort of had it in me. Since I began I've learned a lot as a far as what to look for and dating a item. It's really fun when you find some really old item in great condition that's actually authentic and a good deal. I've amassed quite a bit unique items over the past 8 months. About 3 months ago I made a game changing discovery. I found Shopgoodwill.com. I didn't have to leave the house anymore. The best part is that it works like an auction. You basically pay want you want and if your lucky you get for very cheap. I became addicted and is in part why I ended up with so much stuff. There is an EBay store in the works.

Antiquing is my new best friend 

Number 7

Hey it's Christmas Charlie Brown. I want to wish everyone a happy one. Hope you got what you wanted and had a safe and enjoyable one so far. Today on the countdown is A letter to my readers/Una carta para mis lectores. This was my first attempt at writing a post in both English and Spanish. I was trying to look for inspiration where I could. I was also proclaiming that I was here to stay even if you didn't share the same enthusiasm for my blog that I and some of my readers do. Now time for coffee and something good to eat so I can continue celebrating.

A letter to my readers/Una carta para mis lectores

100

Yo!! In case you  weren't keeping count, this is Ghettoblaster's 100th post. Wow, what a year it has been. Never thought I would still be around.

Enough about me. I wanna wish everybody the best Christmas ever. I want everyone to know that I love and appreciate you. There is nothing better than knowing that you have people that love and appreciate you back. No matter what you got or didn't get this year, remember that you have your health and another year of life. Don't take anything for granted, many people are hungry and cold tonight. There are others dealing with loss, mental illness, and addiction. So what if you didn't get the new Jordan's. No shoes are worth bleeding over.

I wanna thank all my friends and family that allowed to spend even a little time with them today. I think that so far this has been the best Christmas ever. I haven't even opened a gift yet. What ever I get will be awesome and the icing on the cake to a awesome day. Tomorrow the festivities with continue on into Monday. Eat drink and be merry. May God bless you all.

Number 8

Next on my top 10 is If your supposed to keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Where do you keep your family? I think this was one of my favorites. Even if it was one the stories that upset my mother. I still think it's some of my most inspired work. I love my family, I just don't understand them. Things will never be up to my standards. While I'm on the subject of family, I wanna wish all my people a great and wonderful Christmas tonight. Even though I may not be there, I'm with you in spirit and only wish you the best. Love.

If your supposed to keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Where do you keep your family?

Number 9

Today's 9th most read story of the past year is Divorce What is it good for? Absolutely nothing. I was dealing with a bit of family dysfunction during this time. Things have evened out but there is more drama in store. It seems that provocative stuff gets more hits. Say it again.

Divorce - What is it good for? Absolutely nothing

Ben and Alex

With Christmas just days away, and Hanukkah in full swing, I've decided to write about two very special gifts that some close friends of mine have recently received from God. What a better way to celebrate the holidays then with the birth of two healthy baby boys. Two boys that someday will grow up to be strong level headed men. How do I know this? I know because they come from two great families. People that I've had the honor of knowing for many years and that I consider family.

Number 10

As promised, today I begin my countdown of the top 10 most clicked stories in the inaugural year of Ghettoblaster. This story was one of the first that I did. From day one of the blog I knew I wanted to write this story. It's about my older brother Adolfo. In his hay day when he rocked Pumas with fat laces and a Kangol bucket. He threw down any time, any place. Since writing this story, even though a lot of things have changed in his life and in our relationship, I still love and admire him. So just click the link below and enjoy.

Adolfo: Break Master #1

Young Mr Pilotin

At the conclusion of my previous post, I invited my readers to choose their favorite Ghettoblaster story from this nearly ending year. IT was no surprise to me that my most staunch supporter, Mario, would be the first to comment. Not only has he motivated me to continue writing, but he has been part of more then a few of my writings. He is one of the guys I wrote about in The Little Rascals. I've written about his wonderful family. I've even written indirect messages that only he would understand. Sometimes being a responsible older brother is hard and it's best not to preach so I speak in code. He was also the subject of the note that inspired this blog.

A year in the life

It's been almost a year since I started the Ghettoblaster blog. Not something I planned to do. A close friend of mind began one, and encouraged me to try. I did it for shits and giggles and then I became hooked. I never thought I could actually write anything that people would be interested in reading. Like anything else I didn't always write winner's. Some of my blogs garnered more attention then others. It seems that the more controversial the subject matter, the more readership it received.

What kind of fu_kery is this (The Holiday Edition)

Yo!! What's up family? I've been meaning to write all week, but I was too busy. This being my day off and not having to worry about anything, my mind is clear enough to write. I hope everyone is doing well. I hope that you've all gotten most of your holiday shopping done. Remember to be safe out there. There are a lot of desperate so-and-so's out there this season. "I can't afford it, so I'll take it from hardworking people instead" We are all in need, but it's not right to hurt or kill for material things.

Bell's Palsey 1 month

Finders Keepers

It's 3:04 in the morning. I'm rushing down the stairs to grab something to eat and head to work. Mind you I'm supposed to be on the road by now, if I plan to arrive there by 3:30. Frankly I don't care. Sleep was scarce and I think I'm coming down with something. It took me 20 minutes to get in the shower. I just sat there daydreaming trying to figure out what I was dreaming about. I had a heated debate with myself on whether I should take the time to wash my hair. We settled on doing it in the afternoon. I didn't want to leave the house with wet hair. Not because I don't want to catch cold, rather because I didn't feel like hearing my mom pointing out that I was going out in the cold with wet hair.

To Do List

What do you know, another Thanksgiving in the bag. I knew the end of the year was coming, but damn, that was quick. It's all been a blur. I started my new job in September and it's almost 3 month's. Although we didn't break any sales records the last few days have been hectic. I've either been at work or asleep since Saturday morning. Some days I worked two separate shifts in one day. Others I went in 5pm and left at 5 am. I've pushed. I've pulled. I've climbed. I was exhausted. Now I am am done. Everyone got their turkey. Now it's time for me to enjoy my day.

Meet Lalo Robles

I learned about loyalty and honor in, of all places, the penitentiary when I did my first bid back in 86'. Lalo spoke in a low almost muffled tone. His face lit up as he sparked a match and lit the cigarette he was holding in his mouth. There he stood all of 186 lbs at a staggering 6' 2" It was winter so he wore his 3/4 length lambskin coat with the fur. Motherfuckers in the pen aren't like these dudes out here. They have nothing to loose, they will fuck you up, you better believe it bro. It's a cold December night on the stoop of Lalo's mom's building. You would think he was standing at the pulpit giving a sermon. The neighborhood knuckleheads are hanging on every word. Really bro? Word? Is all the listener's say. Lalo is the real deal, he's an O.G., and Original Gangster, one of the guys whispers to his buddy.

Porky Pig is Garbage

I just got back from taking my father to a laser eye surgery. I think we took more time parking then it took for the procedure. We circled the block twice past a perfectly good parking garage because Mr. Vanderbilt didn't want to pay for parking. After we came around the second time, there were two open spaces. He parked handed me a quarter, and it gave us 15 minutes. I asked him if he was going put more time on it. He told me that since he's got a handicap placard on his rear view mirror, they wouldn't ticket him.

100%

I started writing this two days ago. I then got a phone call from my boss. This call made me not want to finish anything I was doing. I even pondered not writing anymore. There is nothing that brings me down more that someone questioning my work ethic and integrity. I just listened to him speak. I didn't want to argue or question him. I then got off the phone and went straight to bed.

Palsy Blog Day 4 [video]

This is a follow up to my first video blog about my Bell's Palsy. I hope you can see any improvement. Although small, I feel progress everyday. Thanks again for all the support during this difficult time. It truly means a lot to me.

I'm Going Going Back Back....

Yo!! I can't believe it's Saturday already. I thought the week had been going so slow up until today. Trick-or-treating on Monday seemed so long ago. Then my mom's birthday was only 4 days ago. After Wednesday, it seemed like my life came to a screeching halt. As the whole world knows by now, I encountered my second bought with the ever elusive Bell's Palsy. The bad news is my face will look like this for a while, which causes me to sound like a stroke victim and eat like an aardvark. The good news is I'm alive and can continue a seemingly regular existence.

I broke it (my face) I bought it [video]

I decided to shoot this short video chronicling my recent Bell's Palsy attack. I apologize in advance for the off center video. I had to record it in my daughter's room because it had the best light, so excuse the shelf full of toys behind me. I hope this helps you better understand the extent of my condition. Thank you.

My life with Bell's (Palsy)

My head hurts. I have inflammation in the base of my skull. Everyone once in a while I get a throbbing pain on my temple and jawline. About three years ago I suffered the same series of pain cues on one fate full day at work. The only difference was that that day my earlobe became inflamed. That evening I went home and was still suffering from the same issues. I then sat down to eat dinner. That's when I finally realized something was awry. The food and drink I was consuming was dribbling out of the left side of my mouth. The left side of my face was swollen and it tingled.

November 1st

Today marks the anniversary of my mother's birth. She was born on November 1st, 1945 in Nicaragua. I wouldn't be were I am today without her in my life. She's always there when I need her. Even when she's mad at me. We got her some cards, a cute little cake (like her) and a 3 piece luggage set. She was so happy with her stuff. I never forget her birthday, and thank God that I was able to show her how special she is to us.

Food and Beverage

I wonder if Rachel at the cheese counter was surprised when I picked up a bottle Italian Moscato Di Asti, a artisan baguette, and a wheel of Isigny Ste. Mère French Brie. I don't know if I appear to be the connoiseur type. I guess I look more like a beer, pretzel, and aerosol cheese guy. Not to say that I don't appreciate a good beer and pretzel. The canned cheese I can live without. I guess what I'm getting at is to the perfect stranger I may not appear sophisticated and refined. OK I do own an Old English 800 t-shirt. On the other hand I'm an opened minded person when it comes to food and beverage.

Tomorrow is another day

The time of the day when I start getting ready for work is 6ish. I have to sleep at least 7 hours to be rested enough to deal with a another day at the shop. Being in a new situation has been harder then I imagined it. I feel like I haven't been able to live up to people's expectations. I do my best and still have to deal with problems on a regular basis. When my cell phone rings, my heart drops and I hesitate to answer it. I've burned through my minutes in the past week with calls from my boss. I even started turning it off on my days off because I couldn't take the anxiety of what he was going to say to me.

I can do this

Seems like things will never change. The same thing day in day out. Everyone seems to be waiting to be rescued from this collective depression. Money doesn't exist. It doesn't buy happiness. I wanna travel the world eating fine cheese and drinking fine wines. I wanna spend a summer in Scotland making my way trough the country side sampling Scotches. Why do I have to wait to hit the winning number to do it. By the time the money transfers to my account tonight at midnight it will belong to my landlord, Verizon, and Progressive. Tomorrow I will still be broke and unhappy.

Destiny

What were you born to do? Judging by my current situation, I was born to work my fingers to the bone and live a mediocre lower middle class existence.  Do you think Hollywood actors and your favorite singers and athletes were born be rich and famous. How much of good fortune is hard work and how much is dumb luck? Just because you can sing and dance, does it mean you were born to be an entertainer. I was the quintessential pathological liar, but that didn't translate to an acting career. I like to goof around, and under the right circumstances I'm actually funny, not yet a comedian. Something I do notice is the people I know that are actually trying to pursue a career in entertainment, haven't had much luck. Is it because they haven't met the right person that will take them to the next level, or that they aren't that good?

Memories

It's strange the stuff we remember about people. For instance there are people you only know by their nickname. You can't remember "peanut's" name to save your life. However you'll never forget the time in the 5th grade his mom was waiting at the bus stop and beat his butt while wearing a house coat. Some people are good at remembering numbers. Others like my wife are good at birthdays. My daughter on the other hand remembers everything. Its true she's only 7 but she remembers every butt whooping she has gotten. Every birthday and Christmas present she has gotten after the age of 2 and who gave it to her. It's amazing really. I pride myself on remembering random stuff.

Frank meets Francis II (The Heroin Revision)

We find our subject asleep in what you can call a bed. It's an old dirty futon mattress in the corner of a bedroom. The door creeps open as a thin woman wearing a  blue sweater dress and bad wig creeps in.

Perfecto

Does perfection truly exist? Are you someone that does everything perfectly? Do you know "the perfect girl"? What does that mean anyway. I don't know what your meaning of perfect is, but I know that I will never be it. I do everything in my power in every realm of my life. A the end of the day someone always picks out a handful of flaws. I think I'm doing something but when I step back and look at the big picture, it's full of holes. I guess the people pointing the finger do everything perfect.

Sudden Death

Did you know that Steve Jobs was half Syrian? I also found out that he had an estranged daughter, that he denied even swearing in court that he was impotent. It's funny how it takes a person to die for the world to find out everything possible about them. I found 330 "R.I.P Steve Jobs" Facebook pages in several languages just this morning. I'm sure it's probably up to at least 500 now.  It's obvious that his innovation and the company that he co founded have impacted technology and the way we live. I'm just curious why this translates to an emotional outpouring. I'm pretty sure if Bill gates died tomorrow, I would'nt be sad. It's strange how we react to sad news.

Dream Weaver

Dreams are supposed to be a glimpse into our psyche. Is that so? I sometimes have flashes in my dreams. It's usually a street scene with no sound or color. Months later I'll be somewhere panning the horizon and realize that it's the same vision I had months before in my sleep. Does that make me psychic? I don't think so. I've always read that we only use 10% of our brain's capacity. I figure if we used 100% we could predict the future and control things with our mind. I still think that there is more to dreams than we think.

It's aight!

Things seem to have certain levels of meaning to different people. The same things that I am am passionate about, the average person could care less about. Is something necessarily good because everyone likes it? For instance a lot of people out there still smoke cigarettes. Yet research proves that it is conducive to lung and other forms of cancer. I was once told that I was consistent by my superior. I'm not sure if it was a compliment or not. Did he mean that I consistently did a good job, or that I was consistently disappointing him.

Pugilism

Pugilism also known as boxing was once an honorable sport that involved two men in a ring fighting with only their fists in timed intervals called rounds. It began as bare knucle and eventually introduced gloves. In modern times boxing has become big business. It's not about the fight anymore, it's about the payday. There was a time that I looked up to boxers. They wore suits before fights. They were men of honor and would never disrespect anyone in public, even an opponent. Nowadays people shell out big bucks to watch these over priced self promoting blow hards train and step into the ring to showboat and avoid getting hit. I'm sick and tired of it so I decided to put together a pictorial about some of my boxing heroes. I may not have everyone you admire but to me these men were true gentlemen in the ring.

September Fourth

Sunday!! Sunday!! Suunnndaaay!!!! No it's not a demolition derby. At least not here, and not for me. Sunday marks quite a few special occasions. It's signifies the beginning of many great things in my life. Not only will I be a year older. I will also have been married to my lovely wife for a total of 6 years. I know it's a week away from the 10th anniversary of the September 11th attacks. I also know that a day after that solemn event will be my daughter's 7th birthday. This Sunday I will also be working my first full day on the new job. Believe it or not I have started other jobs on my birthday. So now the dilemma is on how I will commemorate each event in my own special way.

I've got you under my skin

I wanted to write, but didn't know what to write about. I decided to play my Windows Media Player play list on random in hopes that it would get my creative juices flowing. The first song the came up was I've got you under skin by Frankie Valli and he Four Seasons. These last few days have been very interesting. I've given the description to my new work location over 50 times. I've gotten so many heartfelt "We're going to miss yous" I don't know what the future holds for me, but this seems to be the leaf that I've been waiting to turn.

Bernadette and Mickey

There was once a man who had no friends. He lived alone and only ate yellow food. When he had to leave his home he would wear blue pajamas and brown slippers. When it was cool he wore a brown corduroy  jacket and an old brown cap. He would ride his bike to town. He rode and old time bike with a big wire basket in front.

Cha Cha Cha Changes

On April 1st 2008 I made the move. I had worked in Virginia for 3 years and decided to transfer to the city of Baltimore. I really didn't decide, the decision was made for me. In other words, I refused and after being cussed out I agreed to do it. You see the company I work for encourages you to move around. The people that move up usually work at several locations. When I went to Baltimore I had no idea what I getting  myself into. I had a beat up car, my wife had just begun going to school, and my daughter was very young.

Help Wanted - Inquire Within

Why is getting a job such a impossible task? My wife showed me a job application today that she was filling out. It had 10 math problems at the end. What ever happened to the hook up. Back in the day I could get a job by telling my parents to let their friends know I was looking. Once when I was unemployed I was offered a job answering telephones at a cab company that a family friend owned. I also was offered a job at a truck customization shop that a friend worked at. I ended up working at a moving company that a friend worked for at the time. Now a days you need a degree to answer telephones. What ever happened to giving someone a chance.

A little story about where they come from

The 20783 zip code will never be affiliated with big mansions. True you may see some Benz' and Beamers running around. Nestled in between Hyattsville and Silver Spring is a very special place. Even though it's spelled with 11 letters, most people describe it by only two. Lp or Langley Park is an "unincorporated area and census-designated place (CDP) in the Washington, D.C. metro area" according to Wikipedia. To me and to many people it was or still is home. I recently had the great pleasure to have found a Facebook group named "You know your from LP........" The first few days it was awesome. Walking down memory lane with many people that walked the same streets as I. Some I knew most I didn't. I'm pretty sure if I saw them I would recognize them and visa-versa.

Who said we had to get along anyway?

Recently my niece came to spend a couple of weeks with us from Florida. She has been here over the years, but not long enough to see how things really are around here. I think she was fooled into believing the Maryland families were all united. She doesn't understand why there is so much animosity. Don't get it twisted I can't stand most of them but I won't turn my back on family. They have gotten that "being phony" thing down to a science. I think she has trouble accepting that I always speak the truth, even if sounds ugly.

Where I've been

It's been a while since I've sat at my desk and typed you guys a letter. So much stuff going on right now. I at least now have a nice new keyboard to type on. I unfortunately spilled a soda on my previous keyboard and it became hard to type since the keys became stiff. I was thinking about writing all week. I realized today that I haven't written a Ghettoblaster or a Protector in I don't know how long. I also need to get back on track to finishing my father's biography. I've been preoccupied with other things, mainly work and family. I now give you the last few months.

The death of Ghettoblaster

Did you know that my die hard readers love my darker side? I already know that they love when I write about conflict. No one cares that I collect antiques or how much I love Biggie's music. They wanna read about what gets under my skin. They wanna know that I downed half a bottle of Jack and wrote about how much I hate my life. Truthfully I sometimes write about things that I shouldn't. The problem is that too many of my friends and family have access to my blog. They read it, especially when I write about controversy. What happens? It spreads like wild fire. Even the people that don't read it know what I wrote about. True I censor myself not to mention specific persons. I have written stories about some of my friends and family. They were usually anecdotes. Plus the subjects thoroughly enjoyed the piece.

Everything Is Going To Be Alright

I think my last blog scared a few people. Many of my friends and family have called or written to make sure I was OK. I really wasn't trying to alarm anyone. Actually by the time I wrote it, I was over most of it. I just needed to chronicle my predicament. When I write this kind of stuff, I honestly do not intend to gripe. I'm writing mostly to let the reader's know that I go through stuff just like everyone else. The worst part of hardship is thinking that it only happens to you. My daily torment is very common. There are many of us who struggle to make ends meet. Some of us feel unappreciated, whether at work or at home. We all feel at odds with at least one person in our family. I know it's all a part of growing up. I don't put it out there for sympathy, I put it out there to release it. Once I release it I can move on to the next thing. I love my life. It may not be perfect, but it's better then many other peoples lives, and I know that someday all my hardship will be a memory and will be part of my story.

THE NOT-SO-GREAT DEPRESSION

Before I come out of the gate blasting, there is something I have to say. I thank the lord everyday for what I have and the people that are in my life. I take nothing for granted because I know that there are so many people that don't have half of what I have. Then there are people that have everything and would trade it all for good health. With that being said. Let me tell you something.

It's just a phase

Wow, how long has it been since I've sat at this computer to share my thought with my people. One my closest friends and regular readers, has been trying to coerce me into writing again. I've been so busy with work and life that I haven't been able to find any inspiration to write about anything worth reading. This may even turn out to be a waste of time. I hover will try my best to give you something to think about or even a slight chuckle.

Buddy goes to Brooklyn

Normally I'm not the kind of person that will pack up the car and hit the road on the weekends. As a matter of fact, I'm not the kind of person to even take the weekends off. A while back I promised myself that if and when I had a Saturday or Sunday off, I would hit up yard sales and flea markets in the area. Considering I had both weekend days off I decided to do something a little different.

The finished product

I finally completed my first restoration projects. I did a Little Learner's cash register from the 50's that I found at a thrift store. When I got it the red paine was faded to pink. It was covered in old stickers. Some of the arms to the keys were bent. The drawer could not open. I took it apart, strainted up all the keys. I polished the buttons. It took 3 days, but I managed to strip all the paint and rust inside and out. I primed and painted it in the original red color. All I need to do now is replace the plastic window which was badly scratched. If interested, make me an offer.

What's new?

There is so much stuff going on right now that it's impeding my writing. I'm trying my hand at so many different things, but as usual, I can't settle on one. The summer is finally here so I'm trying to make the best of it. Grilling as much as I can. Spending a lot of time outside. I want to go in several different directions but would like to focus on one or on all, not sure.

I want to run again

My favorite line in Forrest Gump is "Now you wouldn't believe me if I told you, but I could run like the wind blows. From that day on, if I was ever going somewhere, I was running!". If you have known me for over a year, you may know that I took up running a little over a year ago. I went from being completely inactive to running 6 plus miles. Along the way I lost about 65 lbs. On Thanksgiving Day I ran a 10K. It was a great day for me. Soon after winter set in, and my running began to wane.

It's the end of the world as we know it

If the world were to end tomorrow, would you be ready? What does being ready actually mean? What if you had 5 months before the world ended? Would you be ready then? For some people being ready means many different things. Some are looking for spiritual enlightenment. Some want to make amends with their enemies. Others wanna tell people off that they never had the courage to. Would you take that vacation you never did because you couldn't afford it? Maybe you would play that big hand in Vegas or bet it all on black?

Antiquing is my new best friend.

Today was thrift shop day for the Mrs and I. We got out early this morning. I knew about a thrift store and pawn shop in our neighborhood. Neither of us had been to either one. The first place was a thrift store on Hamilton Street in Hyattsville. It was totally disorganized. There was crap all over the place. Nothing was priced. The two persons in the shop never even acknowledged us. They did have a few cool things. What caught my eye the most was a very old sewing machine and some cast iron wall hangings. The hangings were shaped like a WWII plane and some golfers. Other then that I did see a cool lamp and the examination table. It was a butte. It had turquoise vinyl with drawers below. It had stirrups. I've sat on examination tables that weren't a nice as this one. Although I really liked it, I had to pass. First of all. Where would I keep it? Secondly. Who knows what this guy would've wanted for it.

Are you ready for your funeral?

Death is a part of life. Everyone, if they're lucky, will end up with a tag on their toe. Nobody ever wants to die. At least not too soon. I for one, want to see my daughter grow up. I also want to bury my parents. No one should have to bury their children. I however plan to live into the ripe old age of my 60's. I know that's exactly not aiming high. I'm 31 now, so in next 30 years I want accomplish something great and maybe play with my grandchildren. When I die I want to predetermine everything that will happen at my funeral. I even want to pick out my suit and what kind of flowers will be on my casket. I will choose the people that will give my eulogy. I want my death to be a party not a "funeral"

My Perfect Sunday

My life divided in two realms. My family and my job. Everything I do on a daily basis is to appease either side. I work 8 hours 7 days a weeks. The rest of my time is dedicated to my wife and daughter or to my parents. That means I don't get much time for myself. Not to mention the 2 hours a day I spend on the highway. Other then that I write and surf the web. I seldom get to treat myself. Today turned out to be the perfect day for me.

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

I just finished watching the Denzel Washington movie called John Q. As old as it is neither my wife or I had ever seen it. It was very emotional to watch. I guess for it was especially for me because like the main character, I am a working father that would do anything for my family. When John Q was saying goodbye to his son, he gave him life advice. At one point he tells him to make as much money he can, even if he has to sell out. He tells him that having money is the most important thing in life. Afterwards he tells him not to do wrong or run with the wrong crowd. I think that was a bit contradictory.

This one's for all my moms.

Good fortune is a true blessing. Being alive. Having a great family. The thing I appreciate the most is still having my parents around. I've been one of the lucky ones that was raised by both my parents. They have taught me how to be a better father and husband. Today we in the United States celebrate our mothers. I want to celebrate and honor some of the mothers in my life.

What did you experience today?

We never know what tomorrow may hold. You can make all the plans in the world, but that doesn't mean you will be around to fulfill them. Depending on who you ask, they may say, "only God knows". Some people live for tomorrow, and some live for today. There are even some that live in the past. In the past 24 hours there have been deaths, births, accidents, winners, and losers all over this planet. What did you see today? What did you do? This is what I learned and experienced.

Blood sausages and royal weddings

What kind of a person wakes up at noon? Even when I stay up late or get drunk I usually get up before 9 the next morning. I've never been able to sleep in. Even on my days off I get up at 7am. So to wake up just after 12 noon is bothering me. I feel like I missed a lot of stuff. I didn't even know the royal wedding was this morning. Truth be told I could care less. I've been avoiding that thing like the plague. I'll come back to this subject later. So what do you do when you wake up this late in the day?

How do you say goodbye?

True friends are hard to come by these days. It's hard to trust just anyone. There are only a few people that I would drop everything to help. Even if a go 10 years without seeing them nothing ever changes. My brother from another Spook is the definitely one of those people.

My mission is to accomplish nothing

What am I doing?
Why am I here?
I only hear what I want
I only hear that I can't

Instead I choose to rant

With nothing to lose
I venture out into the world

In a world of trouble
I wander aimlessly

What do you see?
Nothing and no one

How do you feel?
Like dying

Stick my life into a bucket of bleach
and watch the colors bleed

Psychedelic is how I feel
Rotten is how I smell
So what the hell
am I supposed to do?

Do nothing
Be nothing
See nothing
Hear nothing
Feel nothing

Smell failure

Late night whiskey fueled rant

As I sit here at my computer with the sound of my wife and daughter snoring in the background. Only vaguely drowned out by the Cartoon Network playing for no one to watch. I contemplate many things. My glass that was not to long ago half full is currently half empty. The ice slowly melting away into my Jameson. I take a sip followed by a deep breath. I've been wanting to write all day and now is my opportunity.

I definately like old stuff

There is nothing like finding old stuff at a thrift store or yard sale. I guess I got the bug at a young age from my father. He was always bringing gems home, some from yard sales and a good amount from the curb. My dad was a picker even before it was chic.

If you're supposed to keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Where do you keep your family? (English/Spanish) Si debes mantener a tus amigos cerca y a tus enemigos mas cerca. Donde debes mantener a tus familiares?

Family is always a touchy subject. For the most part I love my family, even the ones I don't share blood with. Loving your family doesn't necessarily mean you have to like them. right? I'm the youngest of 10 kids and I have something in common with all of them, and something I hate about most of them.

"Single v. Married"

People have got their own opinion on what life is better. There are pros and con's for both situations. I do however want your opinion on this. After this is posted please feel free to comment below and give me your pro or con for either side. I'll be giving my point of view, but like anything else, what's good for me may not be what's good for you. The idea for this came after I got a message from my cousin Roxy.

Hamshanks and Toy Registers

It was rainy Tuesday morning. Considering I'm on vacation I chose not to waste my day away in front of the television. Usually I like going for long drives and thrift store shopping when I have time. Today seemed like a perfect day for those kinds of activities.

I will never drink again..... this week

Oh my, waking up this morning was the worst thing I could have done. My head was throbbing. My mouth was dry. My kidneys hurt. I wanted to die. Last night we decided to celebrate at my house. The "Little Rascals" were (for the most part) all back together again. It was supposed to be an early Birthday party for Nelson. We were also raising our glasses to my wife for finishing school last week.

A letter to my readers (In English and Spanish) Una carta para mis lectores

Today I started my Spring Vacation. I have nothing planned. The only thing I'm sure of is, I want to read and write. I may go to New York. We're supposed to go to Emporia. We'll see what happens. I just wanna chill. I don't want to worry about the clock. I wanna stay up late. Drink a beer. Maybe watch a movie or two.

Divorce - What is it good for? Absolutely nothing.

Lately I've been doing a lot of thinking. Unfortunately two people that are near and dear to me are stuck in similar unbearable situations. I'm not a supporter of divorce. I think that once you make that promise you have to keep it. I also hate infidelity. However once someone cheats they forfeit there rights and say in the direction of the marriage.

They should call me "Tim The Tool Man Taylor"

A few days ago I was working on a project for my wife. We were building a booth for my wife's final final presentation at her school. The show is in a museum where they set up curtains and give each student a 6ft by 6ft space to build an exhibit. She designed a 3 sided wall structure to hang her work to simulate a gallery.

If you know me you know I'm not much of a builder. I'm a champ at putting pre-assembled furniture together. If it came from Ikea or Kmart and it has detailed instructions and comes with all the hardware, I can put it together really nicely. When it comes to building something from scratch, I'm no good. I didn't get the carpentry gene in my family. My father and 2 of my brothers are master carpenters. I on the other hand have two left hands when it comes to home improvement.

Why I can't be the president of Nicaragua

First I'd like to wish everyone a Happy St. Patrick's Day. I'm sitting here at my desk with a nice glass of Jameson on the rocks. I'm also wearing my green running shirt. As you may already know I'm not Irish. I'm not even European. However like Ireland, my country has gone through years of political turmoil.

First day of spring

Yesterday was the first unofficial day of spring. It was a long and eventful day culminating in me crashing in my bed at 11am this morning. It all began Saturday afternoon.

I love it when you call me big poppa

Today marks the 14th anniversary of Notorious B.I.G. a.k.a. Biggie Smalls a.k.a. Christopher Wallace's death. At the time Biggie was only 24 years of age. He was discovered by Puff Daddy at the age of 19. At which time he was still dealing crack in the Bed Stuy area of Brooklyn New York.

Lee Jesus Narvaez

On March 8th a very special young man will be celebrating his 13th birthday. I was 18 when my brother's wife had their first son. Before this only one of my brothers had a son. I was never in his life because he lived in Texas, then we lost track of his mother. So this would be the first nephew I would get to enjoy.

The Little Rascals

A friend, and avid Ghettoblaster reader has given me a request for the blog. He's one my oldest friends and fellow High Point High School Alum, He asked me to write about all the crazy shit we did when were kids. I said "FOSHIZO".

Target is going to be the death of me

Yesterday I had my first senior moment at Target. I felt like my dad. I had a problem with everyone in the store. I was so uncomfortable.

My Quirky Dad

I recently wrote about my father and the life that he lived back home before a communist revolt forced him to leave and start over. I have since decided to start writing the memoir of his life. I have decided not to write anymore stories about his adventures. I want to save the rest for his book. However I want to share things he does that make me giggle.

Our Multicultural Kid

The fact that my daughter shares dual ethnicity's does not bother me. I can't help but wonder which one she will adopt when she gets older. A this point in her life I don't see her leaning toward either one. Of course she's only 6. When she's around us she only speaks English. When she is around my parents she only speaks Spanish. I guess it's a good thing they live downstairs.

Son of a farmer - Julio Guerrero - The Nicaragua Years

My father has been telling me stories about his life all of my life. Everything from when he was a kid, to when he was head of security for a government agency. Today I grabbed my pad and sat down with him for a rundown of his best stories.

Writer's Block

I wanna go to a place where I can be creative
Sit on the stoop and let go
Where only poets and writers can live
Where rappers can let there rhymes flow

In this perfect place, no money will be needed
You pay for services with prose or maybe a short story
No on one will be good or bad no need to be conceided
Whether truth, fiction, parody or even allegory

The streets are clean, no trash or crime
There are no techs no glocks no nines
No junkies, thieves or need for locks
Atleast in my imagination.. Welcome to Writer's Block

Spontaneous Combustion

Where am I? Who am I?
Don't know. Dont care.
I am aware and do declare
What I do for attention
Always stuck in detention
For acting a fool and being a clown
I wear a frown but everythings Ok.

While I sink more and more
I ignore the signs around me
but fear surrounds me
and takes over as I go under
and I wonder what happened
I depend attend and defend
all my actions

Cameras and lights flashing
Checks and balances cashing
My skins all red rashing
Cant see my face masking
Whats my name? Whos asking?

For now I run and hide
By all your laws abide
Get in the car and ride
Cause life is suicide
but only slower

On the ones and twos

I was playing dominoes with my daughter this afternoon. While we played she had a music channel on the TV. She knew almost every song word for word. She also had a dance for every song and didn't even have to stand up. I always new she would be musically inclined. It's funny because she does what I used to do and still do. She makes up beats and songs on the spot. I've heard her sing, make up a hook and do the a beat box in one car ride.

What I like and love

I got 20 minutes to do this. I have no idea what to write about. So I decided to do a quick rundown of the things I like.

What ever happened to civility?

Is etiquette dead? Does the world not know how take please and thank you any more? I've always been told that I am extremely polite. Especially when someone is pissing me off I make sure I say thank and have a nice day.

I do this for them

Love. What does that mean? With Valentine's around the corner there is a surge in sales of cards that say "I love you" in many clever ways. Some are funny, some have a religious twist, some are super romantic. "Thank God for your love", "My life would not be the same without you". Do people buy these because they don't know how to say it? Also to go with that insincere card you have a slew of stuffed animals and novelty gifts to choose from. My lady knows I really love her because I gave her a white teddy bear with a heart on the chest that reads "I heart you". If I was gonna write a card to my wife it would go a little something like this.

Wheelchair Dream

So last night I had an odd dream. I was out in Hyattsville by a shopping center. I began moving through the parking lot. I realize I'm in a wheelchair. I panic, not because I'm suddenly confined but because I have to be at work in Baltimore in a few hours. I start moving as fast as my arms will take me. I notice snow on the ground.

Fat Boy = Fat Man

"Do you want a piece of this (kit-kat) before you stop being chunky again? My wife asked me today. I'm not sure what she was saying. True I have let go since the holidays. I'm slowly getting back into my routine, I want the sun to come out and the temps to stay above 50 again. Meantime I was indulging in all the good stuff. Losing weight is no joke.

It's Febuary, what are you going to celebrate?

Welcome to February, how are you going to celebrate the second month in the year. For those that don't already know, February is the month designated for some very important commemorations, even some you didn't know about.

What's that song?

If you know me you know I love Hip Hop. If you really know me, you know I also love all kinds of music. When I was younger I idolized DJ's. I guess that's why I became one when I was older. As a lover of music there are songs that I was consumed by the very first time I heard them. I may have heard it on the radio, at a party, or on TV. The following songs are some of my favorite records, but most importantly kept me on the search for the perfect beat.

For Tania

Today is January 28th 2011. Today you turn 18. I can't believe it. I remember when my sister told us she was expecting. We were vacationing in Nicaragua. Before then she had wanted to have a child but was unable to. When the news came out it was big deal. I'm not sure how many Godfather's and Godmother's you had lined up.

Addiction and brotherly love.

I remember when you were the man. Back in 1984 no one could tell you anything. When you came you live with us, I hardly knew you. All I knew was that you were my big brother and I had to love you. I remember you being funny, good looking, and a good dancer. I used to love listening to your records. You always had an eclectic music selection which inspired my own tastes in music. We listened to everything from Salsa to Kenny Rogers to Bee Gees and Santana.


Soon after you came to the states you started hanging out with boys around the way. I'm not sure how long it was before you tried cocaine, but I remember that it changed you. You always were dressed up and ready to party. Even though you were up to no good, you always made sure I did my home work. When you had money you'll buy us food and snacks. Another thing I vividly remember is you always had a good woman with you. They had money, cars, and homes. I don't know what you had that drove them crazy.

Till death do us part?

Why do people get divorced? Almost everyone I know has divorced parents. Of my closest friends I only know of 2 whose parents are still together. Mine are the few that are. My parents have been together for almost 40 years. The truth is my mom divorced her first husband. I'm not sure if my dad had been married before he married my mom, but already had 6 kids with 4 other women before meeting my mom.

PARENTAL ADIVSORY: EXPLICIT LYRICS

Recently a friend of mine reached out to me with a dilemma. Which I know my parents had, I will have and alot of the parents out there will have. He has 16 year old daughter at home listening to rap music that he does not approve of. Wheather it is lyrical content or visual content, most mainstream music will have objectionable content matter. When my parents and your parents were growing up, I'm sure there were records that their parents didn't find appropriate.

What I want to be when I grow up

I look around and think "This is not what I wanted to be when I grew up". If I had it my way, I'd be wealthy. I would drive a nice car and live in a fancy house. I wouldn't work on the weekends. When I took vacations I would get a new stamp on my passport.

What would your rap name be?

Have you ever put serious thought into what your rap name would be? Would it be based on your name, or your size? Would it have a number in it, or would you be named after a notorious criminal?

Word!?!?

I was recently posed with a interesting question. "Cease, what does word!! mean?" For those of you that have been keeping up with my blog, you may have noticed that I added reaction buttons to the bottom of my blog entries  You can click a button with your choice of reaction to my posts. One of my buttons was "WORD!!".

The day that I die

The morning that I die

It'll be a regular day. The sun will come up at quarter to seven. My wife and daughter will wake up with the alarm at 6:30am to get ready for school.

one one one one one

I'm not sure if it's a coincidence or fate. Today was a peculiar day so far.

Who dressed me?

     When we moved to the Unites States in the early 80's, had feed and clothe 2 teens and a toddler on minimum wage. A majority of my wardrobe consisted of thrift store finds and hand me downs,

     What fallows is a pictorial of what my parents saw fit and fashionable for a toddler. I totally have heard every joke possible. Please, feel free to laugh and comment on my fashion mishaps.

A week in the life of 2011

Tomorrow is the end of the first week of 2011. How did you start your year? How many of your resolutions did you mess up on already? Have you worked out yet? How many cigarettes did you sneak? If nothing went as planned I think you started out the year just fine. Look on the bright side you still have 51 weeks to make up for it.

The MVA is my frienemy

Ever since I can remember I've had a strained relationship with the MVA. Even before I could drive I felt like they were out to get me. I know what your thinking. I'm going to complain about long lines and self righteous bureaucrats. My relationship with the MVA is more like Spy vs Spy.

Adolfo: Break Master #1

I was recently going through my moms old picture's, and found a picture of my brother wearing a Kangol bucket, gazelle's, and parachute pants in a B-Boy stance. Something made me flip it over, and when I did I noticed that in sharpie someone wrote ADOLFO in bubble letters "Break Master # 1". Mind you, my brother had to have been 16 when the picture was taken, and he was skinny as a rail.

Baby it's cold outside

Everyday when I drive to Baltimore I pass numerous people on their morning jogs. I always think, "I need to be out there". The cold has always been a hindrance for me. Over the New Year weekend the temps had climbed into the 50's. Of course I decided to wait to run until today. This morning when I ventured out the weather was a comfy 30 degree Fahrenheit.

Is it better to be loved or feared?

You know the old saying "Nice guys always finish last". This has been the way I have lived my life for the past 31 years. I live to make everyone else happy. I can't say no, and everyone knows it.