The Trouble with Jesus

CHANGES

2011-09-13T16:17:00.001-07:00

Trying to face the changes. Dad is no longer my care, but is now in a nursing home. That is why posts have been few and far between. Nevertheless I will update with any changes in his condition.

My Grandmother Turned 105 Yesterday!

2010-05-22T10:38:00.001-07:00

It was my grandmother's 105th birthday yesterday. She is as feisty as ever, very talkative and she still has a beer now and then. In fact, she gave up smoking when she turned 93. She still lives in her own home a leads a pretty normal life.
On the other hand my dad, Jesus, who is 82, led a very healthy lifestyle. Nevertheless, my father has Alzheimer's and my grandmother is sharper than ever. What gives?

By the Time I Sneak Outta Phoenix

2010-05-20T10:23:00.000-07:00

No Matter Your'e Poltics, this parody is very funny!

OMG

2010-05-11T13:20:00.000-07:00

My Dad had a serious fall last night. I was so sound asleep, but I awoke to see him fall in the hallway that abutts my bedroom. He had just gone to the bathroom and slipped and fell. He has diapers but still insists on going to the bathroom. YIKES!!! it was a real nasty fall, but no damage (thank GOD). Anyway, the bed rails are due to arrive today and that will control (hopefully) his late night romps.

"Q&A" from StoryCorps

2010-05-09T09:25:00.000-07:00

Petitions

2010-05-09T09:12:00.001-07:00

hereStart a Petitiononline petition

'NiLP FYI: Increasing Language Diversity in the United States'

2010-05-07T10:38:00.000-07:00

'NiLP FYI: Increasing Language Diversity in the United States'

Apparently - GOD has a Sense of Humor

2010-04-28T13:59:00.001-07:00

Taking care of my father has become quite a formidable task. Every day has new challenges as his Alzheimer’s continues to advance. It will now be three years in May since I started to take care of him. In the beginning he was still able to walk by himself and tend to his garden among other things. Unfortunately, I have seen first-hand both his mental and physical decline. Mentally, he appears to be in a constant state of confusion, not knowing the difference between a spoon or fork, his bedroom and the bathroom and whether I am his son or brother or, at times, his father (he has referred to me as all those names). Physically, his ability to walk has degenerated to the point that he needs a cane, moreover, he will probably need a wheelchair soon, very soon.

Surprisingly he has some wonderful moments of lucidity where he appears to be pretty normal. Unfortunately those moments appear when we have guests who thereby think that I am crazy for claiming that my father is ill. Of course those visits are generally brief so that our guests may go away with mistaken impressions. On the other hand I am with my father 24-7; and his behavior varies hour from hour.

Like the time I heard a splashing sound at about three in the morning when apparently my father thought the hallway was the bathroom and he proceeded to urinate in a planter (the plant though bewildered survived that encounter). Or the time my father decided to hide in a closet while I went crazy trying to find him. Or my father’s daily extensive conversations on politics and society… with our parrot (named Henry). I am expecting Henry to answer him back any day now.

In the last couple of weeks a new pattern of sleeplessness had emerged in my father; consequently leading to a constant pattern of sleeplessness in yours truly. I contacted my father’s doctor who then prescribed some very strong sleeping pills. Well now he sleeps so deeply that he actually begins singing very loud at about three in the morning sound asleep. Actually, I’ve gotten rather used to his early morning serenades.

Speaking of doctors, It has become quite apparent that their attitude (when dealing with seniors) is somewhat patronizing. It is as though they would rather deal with younger patients. Almost as if they do not really care. I mean my father’s health program does not even have a geriatric’s department. Everything is geared to the younger components of our society; even medical care.

Suffice to say that GOD has placed me in my current situation and I gladly (though at times quite tiredly) accept this challenge. I have lost many job opportunities, I have lost some supposed friends, but I have gained so much more than I have lost. My perspective on taking care of my father is that I am exactly where I am supposed to be; doing the right thing for the right reasons. Moreover, if I have contributed in making my father’s life a bit more comfortable because of his situation, then in turn his situation has enriched me in a way that I would never have imagined. I would never trade my current situation for any other “job” or circumstance.

At the end of the day the pure good spirit that was my dad still emerges from time to time; and he let’s me know that he appreciates my efforts. That is reward enough. Though I still can’t get used to changing his diapers; oh well no one is perfect I imagine.

A Little Boy's Explanation of GOD

2010-02-04T11:56:00.001-08:00

THIS IS FABULOUS!!!

It was written by an 8-year-old named Danny Dutton, who lives in Chula Vista , CA . He wrote it for his third grade homework assignment, to 'explain God.' I wonder if any of us could have done as well?
[ ... And he had such an assignment, in California , and someone published it,
I guess miracles do happen ! ... ]

EXPLANATION OF GOD:
'One of God's main jobs is making people. He makes them to replace the ones that die, so there will be enough people to take care of things on earth. He doesn't make grownups, just babies. I think because they are smaller and easier to make. That way he doesn't have to take up his valuable time teaching them to talk and walk. He can just leave that to mothers and fathers.'

'God's second most important job is listening to prayers. An awful lot of this goes on, since some people, like preachers and things, pray at times beside bedtime. God doesn't have time to listen to the radio or TV because of this. Because he hears everything, there must be a terrible lot of noise in his ears, unless he has thought of a way to turn it off.'

'God sees everything and hears everything and is everywhere which keeps Him pretty busy. So you shouldn't go wasting his time by going over your mom and dad's head asking for something they said you couldn't have.'

'Atheists are people who don't believe in God. I don't think there are any in Chula Vista . At least there aren't any who come to our church.'

'Jesus is God's Son. He used to do all the hard work, like walking on water and performing miracles and trying to teach the people who didn't want to learn about God. They finally got tired of him preaching to them and they crucified him But he was good and kind, like his father, and he told his father that they didn't know what they were doing and to forgive them and God said O.K.'

'His dad (God) appreciated everything that he had done and all his hard work on earth so he told him he didn't have to go out on the road anymore. He could stay in heaven. So he did. And now he helps his dad out by listening to prayers and seeing things which are important for God to take care of and which ones he can take care of himself without having to bother God. Like a secretary, only more important.'

'You can pray anytime you want and they are sure to help you because they got it worked out so one of them is on duty all the time.'

'You should always go to church on Sabbath because it makes God happy, and if there's anybody you want to make happy, it's God!

Don't skip church to do something you think will be more fun like going to the beach. This is wrong. And besides the sun doesn't come out at the beach until noon anyway.'

'If you don't believe in God, besides being an atheist, you will be very lonely, because your parents can't go everywhere with you, like to camp, but God can. It is good to know He's around you when you're scared, in the dark or when you can't swim and you get thrown into real deep water by big kids.'

'But...you shouldn't just always think of what God can do for you. I figure
God put me here and he can take me back anytime he pleases.

And...that's why I believe in God.'

12 Cascabeles Llevan Mis Caballos

2010-01-02T13:14:00.001-08:00

Dance to this; my DAD does: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADTcQUeBTDY&feature=related

Happy New Year To All!

2010-01-01T15:31:00.001-08:00

May all your dreams come true; and you all be blessed with a solid income, good health and much love. GOD bless you all now and always. Happy 2010!

Love Thy Enemies

2009-11-22T06:46:00.001-08:00

Matthew 5:38-48, 6:1-4
38) " You have heard that it was said, `An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' 39) But I say to you, Do not resist one who is evil. But if any one strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; 40) and if any one would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well; 41) and if any one forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42) Give to him who begs from you, and do not refuse him who would borrow from you. 43) You have heard that it was said, `You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44) But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45) so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46) For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47) And if you salute only your brethren, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? 48) You, therefore, must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect. 6:1) Beware of practicing your piety before men in order to be seen by them; for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. 2) Thus, when you give alms, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 3) But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4) so that your alms may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you."

The Way to Go

2009-11-08T07:41:00.001-08:00

Life's journey is not to
arrive at the grave safely
in a well preserved body,
but rather to skid in sideways,
totally worn out, shouting
'...holy shit ...what a ride!'

George Carlin

A Passage from the Bible

2009-10-28T10:22:00.001-07:00

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4) Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 5) Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. 6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. 7) Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. 8) Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. 9) Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. 10) Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11) Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12) Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so men persecuted the prophets who were before you."

Hay Caramba

2009-10-07T16:45:00.001-07:00

Dad took out the dirty dishes from the dishwasher and put them away with the clean ones. Turn your back for one minute... Oh well, he mean't well, now we have to wash ALL the dishes.

A Thought from the other Jesus:

2009-10-01T11:14:00.000-07:00

4) And Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor, except in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house."

2009-09-30T16:49:00.001-07:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

C. S Lewis Quote

2009-09-30T14:45:00.001-07:00

"It now seemed that...the deepest thirst within him was not adapted to the deepest nature of the world."

George Carlin's Views on Aging

2009-09-30T14:43:00.001-07:00

Do you realize that the only time in our lives when we like to get old is when we're kids? If you're less than 10 years old, you're so excited about aging that you think in fractions.

'How old are you?' 'I'm four and a half!' You're never thirty-six and a half. You're four and a half, going on five! That's the key.

You get into your teens, now they can't hold you back. You jump to the next number, or even a few ahead.

'How old are you?' 'I'm gonna be 16!' You could be 13, but hey, you're gonna be 16! And then the greatest day of your life! You become 21. Even the words sound like a ceremony.YOU BECOME 21. YESSSS!!!

But then you turn 30. Oooohh, what happened there? Makes you sound like bad milk! He TURNED; we had to throw him out. There's no fun now, you're Just a sour-dumpling.. What's wrong? What's changed?

You BECOME 21, you TURN 30, then you're PUSHING 40. Whoa! Put on the brakes, it's all slipping away. Before you know it, you REACH
50 and your dreams are gone...

But! wait!! ! You MAKE it to 60. You didn't think you would!

So you BECOME 21, TURN 30, PUSH 40, REACH 50 and make it to 60.

You've built up so much speed that you HIT 70! After that it's a day-by-day thing; you HIT Wednesday!

You get into ! your 80's and every day is a complete cycle; you HIT lunch; you TURN 4:30; you REACH bedtime. And it doesn't end there. Into the 90s, you start going backwards; 'I Was JUST 92.'

Then a strange thing happens. If you make it over 100, you become a little kid again. 'I'm 100 and a half!'
May you all make it to a healthy 100 and a half!!

HOW TO STAY YOUNG
1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay them.

2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.

3.Keep learning. ! Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever, even ham radio. Never let the brain idle. 'An idle mind is the devil's workshop.' And the devil's family name is Alzheimer's.

4. Enjoy the simple things.

5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.

6... The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.

7. Surround yourself with what you love , whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.

8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.

9. Don't take guilt trips.. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county; to a foreign country but NOT to where the guilt is.

10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Very Interesting

2009-09-11T10:21:00.001-07:00

In the past week or two, my father has started following me throughout the house. He used to sit in the patio after a bit of gardening -but now he follows me (without saying anything), he sits in a nearby chair to my office, the kitchen, the living room, etc. Yesterday I gave him a coloring book to distract him, but he just picked up the book and followed me into the next room and continued coloring. I hope that it is just a phase. We will soon see. The trouble is that most of his past hobbies do NOT interest him. He has stopped playing dominoes,TV is not for him (except at night). He does enjoy his daily walks, yet he can't walk the dog anymore and he can't walk alone since last year when he kept walking and almost got lost. He does enjoy his pet birds or should I say bird, since the female parrot flew away this past Saturday. I need to get a replacement bird.

Toilet Troubles

2009-09-02T12:17:00.001-07:00

Our main bathroom's toilets got really plugged up last week, so I went to work at fixing it. It took me a few hours - but I was able to dislodge whatever had plugged it up. So I was really surprised yesterday when again, it was plugged up.
"Dad, what have you been dumping in the toilet?", I asked - and immediately he responded, "Why, nothing, it must be someone else." - he replied.
But, my Dad also added: "Unless you mean the trash from the trash can in the bathroom." -
Needless to say, after sending a drill pipe down into the deepest part of our primary toilet and fishing out a sock - among other, needless to mention items, once again our toilet was functioning properly.
Such is the world of a caretaker in the terrible world of Alzheimer's. I would cry, but I prefer to laugh.

Kindergarten for Dad

2009-08-15T17:48:00.000-07:00

After almost two weeks, I am almost finished with the re-painting of Dad's room and a second room (which was mine when I was a teenager). In its most recent incarnation it was used as a guest room that looked straight out of the 1970's.

My thought after the painting and clearing out of accumulated "stuff" was that I was going to use the second room as either a newer, finer looking guest room or as a small family room (but come on, it is just pop (Jesus) and me (for the most part). So last night (3AM to be exact), I had what can only be defined as a DIVINE INTERVENTION! Why not face this debilitating disease HEAD-ON, yes folks, why not convert the extra bedroom into what will amount as a one-room classroom for Dad, a kindergarten for a senior citizen! I mean actually set it up as a modern classroom.
Homeschooling for seniors!

Why not? The medications that his doctors have been prescribing to him (within what can only be described as an assembly line attitude) have apparently not been working as well as anticipated.

Add to that, that we receive no additional support from our local, state or federal governments; even though my father is a veteran of the Korean War. Most recently, our California governor, stopped most assistance to California seniors. I mean, the paperwork, the red-tape puts me in a mindset that outside of placing him in a nursing home (no way!)I have no other options but to take things into my own hands and be more proactive in fighting the onslaught of this terrible disease HEAD-ON.

My father is in the fickle position that his retirement pension is too high to qualify for any minor assistance programs, but really too low to solicit other options. Adult day care is beyond our capabilities; moreover, even the medical insurance companies do not see us as a family unit (as a household - go figure), because I am the son living with his father, therefore they would charge us two fees as if we were two families living under on roof.

For as much as we pride ourselves about our country, after living this experience first-hand, I say that we do not care about our seniors the way most civilized nations tend to.

Therefore, hopefully I shall be finished with my little home-schooling project later this week, and I am going to read my dad more children's' stories, the alphabet, play games with him that remind him of his name, of family members, remind him of the day of the week (or the current year for that matter), but I do not intend to give up on my father - until I have tried everything humanly possible.

He deserves that in the very least.

A Brief Note to MY Daughter

2009-08-13T11:46:00.000-07:00

Roxana:

Thank you for your words and congratulations on being so busy with essentially fun stuff and activities. This has been a tough week for Tito and me, as we essentially said goodbye to my Uncle Tony (Tia Bertha's husband). The service was this past Monday at the Catholic Church in Bonita. My first job was as a dishwasher at his Casa Don Diego Restaurant when I was only 16. He was a very great guy, he knew your Tito and Tita when they were teenagers. Anyway,I just got dropped off by a tow-truck since my pickup blew it's rear tire (and the tire was relatively new). So I panicked because I never leave Tito alone for more than a few minutes, but I dropped off a friend at the border this morning (after lending him my truck) - I was in shorts, had not yet shaved or bathed it was supposed to be a quick drop off - I ended up borrowing a Border Patrol officers's cell phone to call the tow company and my aunt Elsa to check on my dad. All turned out okay, but I was soooooo desperate about my Pop being alone for that brief moment. Somehow I felt like I messed up. I should NEVER leave my dad alone. NEVER! Anyway, more to tell ya, but I will save it for that next SPECIAL day that I get to see you and Jessica.

Love,

Dad

P.S. "Tito" and "Tita" are terms of endearment for "Grandfather" and "Grandmother" ---- respectively.

The Balancing Act

2009-08-01T17:16:00.000-07:00

My Pop and I just got back from the Home Depot. This particular store was my father's regular hang-out; what with having been a carpenter in the past, he loved to go there and check out the new merchandise. Unfortunately, today I had my share of surprises when my Dad almost fell down twice in the store. He walks with a cane, but he is having increased difficulty in maintaining his balance. His doctor told me that this was to be expected, as a lack of depth perception is another symptom of Alzheimer's Disease, in addition to the very expected memory loss.
Outside of putting him in a wheelchair, which I would like to delay for as long as possible, I do not really know what to do.
I am curious as to what percentage of Dementia and Alzheimer's patients develop serious problems in keeping their balance, when walking from point A - to point B. I have not heard of too many complaints regarding this (balance) issue, so I am very dismayed that my father is having such a hard time (just in walking).
I took him to Denny's for a late lunch afterwards, and I had to fish out a conversation, as he sat there nibbling on his sandwich; apparently, lost in thought in a word faraway from my world. His symptoms are getting worse. Moreover, I am getting tired and anxious at the same time. I miss not having my Dad with me like in the old days. The man I have living with me is, unfortunately, a shadow of the man I knew before.
Sometimes, I ask myself if I am doing worse in taking care of him in his own home, rather than placing him in a nursing home. But, I think that action would contribute to a worsening (even more) of his condition.
Sometimes, I just do NOT have the answers. I wonder if this is normal?

Please Go FIGURE!

2009-07-21T11:12:00.000-07:00

Today I received an e-mail from one of my friends (who happens to be a doctor in Spain); where he highlighted some very interesting worldwide facts on the global use of medicine:

'En el mundo actual, se está invirtiendo cinco veces más en medicamentos para la virilidad masculina y silicona para mujeres, que en la cura del Alzheimer. De aquí a algunos años, tendremos viejas de tetas grandes y viejos con pene duro, pero ninguno de ellos se acordará para que sirven'.

TRANSLATION:
'In today's world, there is an investment of five times greater funding in medicines that are for erectile dysfunction and breast augmentation than in searching for the cure for Alzheimer's Disease. Therefore, in a few years we shall have older women with large sexy breasts and older guys with hard penuses and neither of them shall remember what these elements are good for...'

Go FIGURE!!!

Such is Life

2009-07-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

I have not written much in my blog about taking care of my Pop recently, because, well, I have been taking care of my Pop. His disease has progressed quite seriously in past few weeks, allowing me for very little time to write in my blog. Moreover, I am exhausted by the time he goes to bed.
Don't get me wrong- physically, he is doing great. His appetite is good, he looks as handsome as ever, but his problems with memory and his balance are getting noticeably worse. He has started doing things like trying to brush his teeth with shaving cream instead of toothpaste, or putting away dirty dishes with the clean ones, or getting up in the middle of the night and trying to go outside.
I have to be with him, or at least close to him, in order to avoid any potential mishaps.
His depth perception (when climbing stairs) is terrible. I guess, that, in other words, his overall abilities are now much more impacted by his dementia, by his Alzheimer's.
A fact which was confirmed by his new doctor very recently. Fortunately, this new doctor appears to be much more proactive, rather than reactive, when it comes to controlling his situation. We are starting some new meds and some new exercises that will hopefully help.
I feel, like a bit overwhelmed at times; it is getting harder and harder to watch over him without becoming totally overbearing. I now have to help him with his bathing; and just a week ago, I commenced putting him in adult diapers (at nighttime) after a few "accidents" --- a fact which he has accepted better than I thought that he would have.
I should have been better prepared to deal with this overall decline in his situation, but I just thought that we were doing so well. I did NOT think that this diminishment of capacity would come so quickly.
I guess that I will continue to roll with the punches, but I do not wish this situation on anybody; it truly drains your energy in a very fickle way. Essentially, I am a prisoner without my own life to live. Yet, when I see him smile, when I see him happy and comfortable being in his own home; when he tells me that he loves me at bedtime - well as corny as it may sound, it makes all of my efforts well worthwhile. He is my father and I promise to continue taking care of him as long as I am able to do so.

Taking a vacation in a high crime city! No way.

2009-07-20T14:32:00.000-07:00

By Patrick Osio

You're planning a vacation trip; you want to stay relatively close to home, no overseas travel, not this year. Maybe Mexico or in the U.S. – but it has to be affordable and with plenty to do. So you’re reading about some cities. You find one of interest, but on reading other information lo and behold you find that the chances of becoming a crime victim in that city are 1 out of 4 – a whopping 25% chance of being a crime victim. That ended that city as a destination.

You select another city, it sounds interesting, but now you also want to check up on how safe it is. Oh my gosh, you read that the chances of being a crime victim are also 1 out of 4. Scratch that one too. You go to the next city of interest, this one has great beaches, from good to excellent sea food restaurants, but before you book rooms, you check the safety. This one is better but still the chances of being a crime victim are 1 out of 5 – a 20% chance. What the heck is going on? Scratch that city.

Now you start checking other cities but begin with the safety factor first – you find that some are 1 out of 7, or 1 out of 8, or 1 out of 9, or 1 out of 10 – one out of ten people that’s 10% of people being victims of crime in that city – that is scary you think and decide maybe you and your family should stay home.

The cities checked before giving up are Chicago, Cincinnati, Miami, Jacksonville, Baltimore, Kansas City, Memphis, Dallas, Richmond, St. Louis, Little Rock, Philadelphia, Tampa, New York, Orlando, Cleveland, New Orleans, Los Angeles and Detroit – you had no idea that the chances of being a victim of crime in those cities was that high. What an eye opener.

But is it really an eye opener or are those cities "guilty by association"?

All the mentioned cities are great places with much history and plentiful things to do and enjoy. The high crime rates are true, but within certain, but not all in fact few, neighborhoods in each of those cities. The odds for being a victim of crime in those neighborhoods fall on the neighborhood residents not the tourists who visit the city and don’t travel into those affected neighborhoods.

New Orleans and Miami, as examples, were suffering from a drop of tourism due to high crime reports leading city officials in New Orleans to explain that the French Quarter where tourists congregate and spend their visiting time are very safe provided they are not involved in criminal activity. All cities mentioned are victims of generalization that the media portrayed and people believe that the entire city is not safe due to some neighborhoods having high crime rates.

Similarly, Baja California has been victimized by an unknowing, some would say insensitive, press that Tijuana, with a population nearing 2 million, covering over 400 square miles with dozens of neighborhoods, has neighborhoods with high crime rates wherein the drug cartels are entrenched, but it does not affect the entire city. Where tourism congregates is relatively free of crime, and other than petty thefts, most other crimes against tourists are negligible in proportion to the number of visitors.

The press reports high profile gang wars, and law enforcement shoot out encounters with drug cartel members as though it is the entire city by not identifying affected neighborhoods or even the size of the city where these confrontations take place. Like the French Quarter of New Orleans the Tijuana sections wherein visitors congregate are as safe as the French Quarter.

It is unfair to generalize about the entire city of New Orleans, Miami, Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, Dallas and all the others due to high crime in some of their neighborhoods, it is also unfair to generalize about Tijuana.

It is an even greater injustice that in generalizing about Tijuana the nearby municipalities of Rosarito Beach, covering close to 200 square miles, and Ensenada, a giant at over 20,000 square miles of territory, are drawn into the same generalization as Tijuana because travelers are under the impression that to reach them they have to cross Tijuana – not true, but the US press has never corrected the perception. Going to Ensenada from the US-Mexico border one takes a highway that skirts around Tijuana to a very safe toll scenic highway to both Rosarito Beach and Ensenada. Like in Los Angeles, using a freeway that crosses Watts (350% greater homicide rate than rest of L.A.) on the way to Disneyland.

These types of generalizations hurt everybody – the potential visitor to a great city in the US or Baja California because they miss out on a great experience; the city who loses the income that is spent by tourists that create employment and better life for residents; and by workers whose livelihood depends on visitor’s expenditures.

Read more news by Patrick Osio

MY new BUSINESS wEB sITE!

2009-06-09T18:45:00.000-07:00

hEY GUYS: This is my new biz web site (I'm so excited). Pleeeze give me your feedback. With LUV, Ric ---- www.monkeyfingers.tv

Day Care for Dad

2009-05-18T11:08:00.001-07:00

After a two-year wait, my dad has been accepted into a really nice Alzheimer's Day Care center in Chula Vista. We went last Friday to an orientation and he loved it! This way he will be able to socialize with people of his own age and with the same affliction. It will definitely be good for him. And for me (i will get a break at least two days a week!).

2009-04-08T14:27:00.001-07:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

LEGENDARY HISPANIC DJ TO ARRIVE IN SAN DIEGO

2009-03-30T13:03:00.000-07:00

(San Diego - March 30, 2009) Hispanic DJ Legend Procopio "El Coco" Marquez is scheduled to arrive in San Diego tomorrow morning to record some promo spots for Monkey Fingers' Studioworks. Coco, as he was affectionately known to thousands of radio listeners in central California, was a pioneer in promoting Hispanic concerts to farm workers throughout the golden state in the late fifties and sixties in Fresno, Bakersfield and many other communities throughout California.

Classic mega stars from Mexico, such as Javier Solis, Jose Alfredo Jimenez, Lola Beltran, Los Tres Aces, and many others, performed for the first time in the USA thanks to Coco and his partners. While today it is very common for Hispanic artists to perform in the USA, back in the late fifties it was not as common. Coco, through his radio show was able to persuade top performers from Mexico to perform in live concerts for field workers from throughout the golden state.

After successfully executing hundreds of concerts, other performers from south of the border began to explore venues in the USA. Though on dialysis three times a week, Coco is making the trip to San Diego to record some promotional spots for Monkey Fingers' Studioworks located in south San Diego county. Most recent ly, Coco has retired as a city councilman for the town of Superior, Arizona. The former mining town is a small community located a few hours from Phoenix - Arizona (http://www.superior-arizona.com/). Coco will be in town from Tuesday through Friday; beyond his recordings he will also use the time to visit with family and friends in both San Diego and Tijuana.

Monkey Fingers' Studioworks is a multi-faceted studio operation that handles video, audio, Internet, film production and commercial photography. The founding partners have over 30 years experience in international marketing and media production. They have won multiple industry awards including an Emmy.

Monkey Fingers' integrates video production with Internet site development. Besides hosting multiple sites for many different companies and organizations, Monkey Fingers' is at the forefront of developing new technologies for multiple production platforms.

WHY MONKEY FINGERS?
The reason for the name: Monkey Fingers is our love for The Beatles. The term is used in their song: Come Together. The song title essentially describes our mission statement as a firm: To come together with all sorts of enterprises and deliver optimum quality in audio, video and Internet production:

With Our Apologies to THE BEATLES:
He wear no shoeshine - he got toe-jam football
He got monkey fingers - he shoot coca-cola
He say: "I know you, you know me"
One thing I can tell you is you got to be free
Come together right now over me...

Ballet with the Monkey

2009-03-28T16:35:00.001-07:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

SOS Call Came Through

2009-03-23T11:19:00.000-07:00

Alright, tough weekend; and I am glad that it is over. I pulled a ligament on my right ankle so taking care of pop was very difficult (and very painful). I had to call in my reserves; within an hour of my call, I had Aunt Elsa over cooking up food, then my uncle Jorge came over to bring me some anti-inflammatory medicine. Soaked my foot in warm salt water; and my uncle Alfredo took my dad off to spend the rest of the day with my (103 year-old) grandmother and other extended family members. My aunt Vicky was kind enough to bring him home around six in the afternoon. She even brought home dinner.

It was very kind for all of their help. It is good to know that - in case of an emergency, I have them in my and my father's life.

I still cannot drive, but I can walk well enough to do the basic things. This weekend proved that it can be very, very good to be from a large family.

Happy St. Patrick's Day 2009

2009-03-14T14:24:00.001-07:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Happy St. Patrick's Day 2009 (Laughter Helps!)

2009-03-14T14:01:00.000-07:00

Oh My Let's try this again.

Tribute to OUR OWN

2009-03-14T13:50:00.000-07:00

May GOD bless us, everyone of us who are impacted with this terrible disease.

To CA First Lady Maria Shriver

2009-03-11T16:46:00.000-07:00

Letter Sent to California First Lady Maria Shriver

This is actually directed for our First Lady, Ms. Maria Shriver. I know that you have been impacted by Alzheimer's Disease. My mother, passed away in August 2007 of breast cancer. At that time, I gave up my job at Univision Television in Palm Springs, to take care of my dad, who has Alzheimer's. It has been almost 21 months since then. My father, who is a Korean War Vet, does not qualify for Medical since he earns just slightly above the amount to qualify from his federal employee retirement (he worked for 35 years at the Naval Supply Center in San Diego). Anyway, since I am NOT the spouse, but rather the adult child of an Alzheimer's patient, as a full time caregiver I do not qualify for any assistance. I have utilized all of my savings, what is left is scant.
My father and I were featured on a PBS documentary about the cost of Alzheimer's. You can see that and an extended interview with me at YouTube if you enter my name (Ric Gomez) on the YouTube Search machine. In any case, Alzheimer's is reaching epidemic proportions. Since I do not qualify for Medical, I cannot place my dad into daytime day care for seniors. The cost at almost $100.00 per day is prohibitive. Medicare does not cover it, nor does his health insurance. I am running out of options. Moreover, out of money. I keep a blog about my experiences at www.thetroublewithjesus.blogspot.com --- Since you will be speaking to the Alzheimer's Association in the coming future, I do hope that you communicate to your husband the sad realities that we all face in taking care of our parents. We need help, I myself, after 21 months of this, I need a day off.
Thank you, and know that we know that you both are trying your best.
Ric

It Is Progressing

2009-03-04T09:40:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, my father's symptoms of AD are increasing. I now have to assist him in more ways than before. It is more difficult for him to shower, to dress himself, to brush his teeth. I discovered that he was brushing without the toothpaste; so now I have to be there more than not, but I have to balance being there for him without being overbearing. That is a difficult task.
The one thing that still amazes me is how everyone tells me, "Oh your father looks great." "He is just getting older." "You are overreacting."
Sometimes I feel like just crying out: "Why don't you live with him and then tell me what you observe."
Look, I am very fortunate that my father is doing just great physically; he has a great sense of humor and he is a snappy dresser. Nevertheless, he has AD; which can affect his memory, his balance and his overall judgement.
AD is a terrible disease, and most people do not realize the symptoms nor just how seriously it impacts the patient as well as the family.

Tremendously Crazy Weekend

2009-03-02T11:58:00.000-08:00

This weekend consisted of my cousin Mike's birthday party, a graveside funeral for one of my dad's longtime neighbors, visits from no less than ten family members and friends, pizza (lot's of pizza), lemons (lot's of lemons), sleepless nights, confusion, and so much more.
My dad enjoyed being at Mike's party Saturday night, his sisters and respective husbands were present and accounted for; the food was sensational, and Mike's daughter produced an outstanding video/slide show profiling Mike's life as a dad to six kids. We gave Mike a guitar for his day; not that he knows how to play the guitar, but my father does and he thought that it would make a nice gift to remind him of his godfather.
We did not attend Earl's funeral. We loved him dearly, but I do not think it appropriate to take my father to funerals and such. Funerals make him sad and at 81, I believe he has earned the right to mourn from home. Nevertheless, we took a couple of pizzas to his family last night to help explain our absence. They seemed very understanding and cool with the situation.
In regards to the visits, we had nonstop visits from different friends and family members, which always makes my dad laugh and happy inside.
At the end of the day, it makes me happy too. Although a disportunate amount of our acquaintances own lemon trees. Apparently, I deduct that from all the bags of lemons we received this weekend. Lemonade anyone?
Unfortunately, I had very little sleep for the last couple of nights. My dad's nighttime restlessness affects me very directly. Thank GOD for baby monitors; at least I can sleep in my own bedroom.

Ash Wednesday & Uncle A's Birthday

2009-02-25T14:12:00.000-08:00

I took my pop to the eight o'clock mass this morning for Ash Wednesday. He looked very happy, dressed super-sharp and enjoying visiting with some of his friends. After receiving his ashes, we headed out to the Chinese bakery to buy a birthday cake for my uncle Alfredo (my dad's little brother) who turns 71-years-young today. Uncle Alfredo is staying at my grandmother's house; so both of them were happily surprised to receive us as we sang "Happy Birthday" to my uncle. My grandmother is 103 years young and still kicking. She actually sang "Las Mañanitas" (the Mexican birthday song) to her son with a glow of happiness throughout her face.
I left my dad there to spend some quality time with his mom and brother. Some day I will relate the story of when my grandmother and her sisters fed Pancho Villa and his troops on her family's ranch during the height of the Mexican Revolution.
But, today is the start of Lent for Catholics. Lent is a period of individual reflection whereby we are to focus on three steps: 1. Prayer, 2. Fasting, and 3. Charity. Nice steps, if you can carry them out. Yet, I think we got off to a nice and happy start.
Moreover, my grandmother, my father and, my uncle were very elated this morning. And that makes it all worth the effort.

The Book of Matthew

2009-02-09T10:48:00.000-08:00

George Carlin's Take on Aging

2009-02-05T16:44:00.000-08:00

HOW TO STAY YOUNG

1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctor worry about them. That is why you pay him/her.

2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.

3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. " An idle mind is the devil's workshop." And the devil's name is Alzheimer's.

4. Enjoy the simple things.

5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.

6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.

7. Surround yourself with what you love, whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge. 8 Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.

9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, to the next county, to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.

10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Give It Up for Jesus

2009-02-04T14:58:00.000-08:00

We had an outstanding birthday celebration for my father yesterday at the house. He turned 81-years-young and several family members (including two of his seven sisters) joined us to eat Carnitas, salsa, birthday cake and to enjoy each other's company. It was great and my father felt very, very happy. It was a good day!

Drinking Java May Prevent Dementia

2009-01-17T11:57:00.000-08:00

Drink Daily Cups of Coffee to Prevent Alzheimer's Disease
Author: Wesley Roberts Category: Science 2009-01-16 10:14:22 Midlife coffee and tea drinking can decrease the risk of dementia/Alzheimer's disease (AD) later in life. This conclusion is made in a Finnish Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging and Dementia.

This study has been conducted at the University of Kuopio, Finland in collaboration with Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden, and the National Public Health Institute, Helsinki, Finland. The study included participants from the survivors of population-based cohorts previously surveyed within the North Karelia Project and the FINMONICA study in 1972, 1977, 1982 or 1987 (midlife visit). After an average follow-up of 21 years, 1409 individuals (71%) aged 65 to 79 completed the re-examination in 1998. A total of 61 cases were identified as demented (48 with AD).

"We aimed to study the association between coffee and tea consumption at midlife and dementia/AD risk in late-life, because the long-term impact of caffeine on the central nervous system was still unknown, and as the pathologic processes leading to Alzheimer's disease may start decades before the clinical manifestation of the disease," says lead researcher, associate professor Miia Kivipelto, from the University of Kuopio, Finland and Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.

At the midlife examination, the consumption of coffee and tea was assessed with a previously validated semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire. Coffee drinking was categorized into three groups: 0-2 cups (low), 3-5 cups (moderate) and >5 cups (high) per day. Further, the question concerning tea consumption was dichotomized into those not drinking tea (0 cup/day) vs. those drinking tea (e1 cup/day).

The study found that coffee drinkers at midlife had lower risk for dementia and AD later in life compared to those drinking no or only little coffee. The lowest risk (65% decreased) was found among moderate coffee drinkers (drinking 3-5 cups of coffee/day). Adjustments for various confounders did not change the results. Tea drinking was relatively uncommon and was not associated with dementia/AD.

Kivipelto also notes that, "Given the large amount of coffee consumption globally, the results might have important implications for the prevention of or delaying the onset of dementia/AD. The finding needs to be confirmed by other studies, but it opens the possibility that dietary interventions could modify the risk of dementia/AD. Also, identification of mechanisms of how coffee exerts its protection against dementia/AD might help in the development of new therapies for these diseases."

Based on the report and findings at the University, it would be apparent that everyone should begin drinking their daily doses of coffee to help combat Alzheimer's disease.

I am Very Sorry!

2009-01-14T20:07:00.000-08:00

I am very sorry for not posting anything since before Thanksgiving. I was in the hospital, my dad has been getting a bit worse, my daughters came for Christmas dinner and so much more to share.

Quite honestly, I just have not felt that well, at least not well enough to write on my blog. It is very difficult to be a caregiver for anyone; moreover, these past few months have been extremely difficult. I will share more later on, right now I have to make sure my pop goes to bed... later.

Ground-Breaking for NEW Veteran's Memorial

2008-11-12T09:58:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I was able to take my Dad to the ground-breaking ceremony for the new Veteran's Memorial which will be built at Chicano Park under the San Diego - Coronado Bay Bridge in the Logan Heights neighborhood in San Diego. My uncle Juan Manuel (former Marine)was the Master of ceremonies for the outdoor ceremony which was attended by more that 100 people. Even though the monument is being built at Chicano Park, the monument is intended for all veterans from the neighborhood; it was great to see Anglos, Filipinos, African-Americans an (obviously) a lot of Hispanics at the ceremony.
Moreover, there were people from multiple generations, from seniors to teenagers; from active military to retired World War Two, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm and Iraqi vets.
I was able to seat my father in the front row next to all of the dignitaries and elected officials. It was so funny to see all these important people come and greet my father assuming that he too was some dignitary. And, of course, in my eyes he is. Even the commanding Marine General for the San Diego Recruiting center came up and shook my dad's hand with great respect. It was fabulous!
And when an attending congress-woman gave her speech then asked for all attending military veterans to stand up for a public acknowledgement of their service to their country, my father stood up with great pride. It made his day. And it made me cry with even more pride. My Dad served in the Korea conflict.
More later, I have to take my pop to his doctor --- Later allegators.

Dear Abby Gives Advice for Alzheimer's Caregiver

2008-11-12T09:52:00.000-08:00

Today's Dear Abby

MOM'S DESCENT INTO ALZHEIMER'S CONSUMES HER DAUGHTER'S LIFE

DEAR ABBY: My beautiful, loving mother is now in the middle stages of Alzheimer's disease. This cruel disease has robbed her of her memories as well as the ability to reason and function.
She held my hand through every trial and triumph in my life, and I want to support her the way she has always supported me. But caring for Mama is becoming more and more difficult as she drifts further and further away. Not only am I caring for my mother, I also have a career and three children.

I have so little time to myself. From the financial considerations to the behavioral challenges to safety concerns, I can't keep my head above water. Please tell me what to do. -- OVERWHELMED IN CINCINNATI

DEAR OVERWHELMED: I'll try. I know from personal experience how difficult it is to see a loved one face the changes that Alzheimer's disease brings. Although you feel alone and overwhelmed right now, the truth is you are not.

Today, an estimated 10 million Americans are caring for someone with Alzheimer's or another dementia. More than 40 percent of them rate their emotional stress level as high or very high, and it is a danger to their health.

Some signs to be aware of: feeling you have to "do it all yourself" and that you should be doing more; withdrawing from family, friends and activities that you used to enjoy; worrying that the person you care for is safe; feeling anxious about money and health-care decisions; denying the impact of the disease and its effect on your family; feeling grief or sadness that your relationship with the person isn't what it used to be; becoming frustrated and angry when the person continually repeats things and doesn't seem to listen; and having health problems that are taking a toll on you.

If any of these apply to you, it is important that you take care of your own physical and mental health. Make time to talk to your doctor and contact the Alzheimer's Association because it offers a full range of services. The toll-free number is(800) 272-3900 or visit www.alz.org and take the Caregiver Stress Check interactive quiz. You will find with it a list of helpful referrals there.

FOR MORE "DEAR ABBY" advice visit this web site: http://www.uexpress.com/dearabby/?uc_full_date=20081112

A VERY Important Passage from the BIBLE

2008-11-07T11:27:00.000-08:00

John 10:1-18
1) " Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber; 2) but he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3) To him the gatekeeper opens; the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4) When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5) A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers." 6) This figure Jesus used with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. 7) So Jesus again said to them, " Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8) All who came before me are thieves and robbers; but the sheep did not heed them. 9) I am the door; if any one enters by me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. 10) The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. 11) I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12) He who is a hireling and not a shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. 13) He flees because he is a hireling and cares nothing for the sheep. 14) I am the good shepherd; I know my own and my own know me, 15) as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16) And I have other sheep, that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will heed my voice. So there shall be one flock, one shepherd. 17) For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life, that I may take it again. 18) No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again; this charge I have received from my Father."

Take Action!

2008-11-07T09:01:00.000-08:00

Action Alert!
what:Email your state legislators to stop Alzheimer's cuts now. when:By November 12, 2008

Dear Ricardo:
Key decisions will be made on Alzheimer's care next week and we need your help to fight more cuts. Please email your legislators by November 12.

Tell them that Azheimer's programs have been cut 10% this year. Needed family services have already been lost.

Don't forget:

Email your state legislators now. Stop more cuts to Alzheimer's programs.

Forward this message to family and friends >>

Background
On Nov 5, the Governor called a Special Session of the Legislature. The amount of funding for programs that help families living with Alzheimer’s are threatened, including the Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Centers, the Alzheimer’s Research Centers and the Caregiver Resource Centers.

These programs have already been cut 10% this year.

Another cut will mean:
*Many more family caregivers will not get respite, support and education
*Many more people with memory loss will not get an accurate diagnosis
*Many more people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias will not be able to attend a day care program that understands their needs.

Thank you!
As an advocate, your voice makes a difference for our lawmakers.
Questions? Email martha.ranon@sanalz.org

Yikes!

2008-10-31T11:03:00.001-07:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T10:34:00.000-07:00

My father and I put up Halloween decorations throughout the front yard this past Wednesday. I was putting it off and off; but, then I remembered how he and my Mom would put up those decorations every year without fail. My Mom put away all the decorations and brought them out each year; they are truly vintage (Mom passed away in 2007).

Anyway, I thought that it would be therapeutic for my Dad to put up the Halloween decorations as a gentle reminder of better times. And, I was right! He didn't remember that Halloween was coming up. Now he is excited about dressing up in a cowboy costume and handing out candy to the neighborhood kids later tonight.

It felt good to bring out all of the decorations; in a way it as though Mom's spirit was all around us. We really miss her. She used to say that her spirit would visit us in the form of flying butterflies. Her name was Blanca; which means white. And for the past few weeks (as my father points out daily) we have been visited by several white colored butterflies on a daily basis. Probably just a coincidence; yet, we like to believe that it may be something more. And at the end of the day, you gotta believe. Happy Halloween!

No Excuses

2008-10-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

No excuses; just explanations: I have been so busy with my Pop and pets that I have not had any free time to enter this blog site. Moreover, September and early October are busy months with multiple birthday celebrations for several family and friends. Be sure to check out www.thebajabugs.com; cousin Xavier and his band are taking off!
Also, listen to The Baja Connection radio show on KOOL-1040 AM in the San Diego area or on www.thebajaconnection.com on the Internet. The show airs Monday through Friday at 4PM (PST). It is hosted by friend Patrick Osio (although, I do substitute host for him from time-to-time).
More later...

Sept. 21st is World Alzheimer's Day

2008-09-18T11:40:00.000-07:00

Letter from The Alzheimer's Association:

Dear Ricardo,

Our heartfelt thanks go out to all who took part in our World Alzheimer's Day Matching Gift Challenge, and made it such a resounding success!

We raised over $500,000 to help us advance our mission to fight Alzheimer's disease. If you donated during the Challenge, thank you. If not, you can still make a generous gift to the Alzheimer's Association to help us do even more to realize our dream of a world without Alzheimer's disease!

Ricardo, World Alzheimer's Day only comes once a year on September 21, but our fight against this terrible disease goes on every day… We need your generous support to help us do even more to bring about additional Alzheimer research, enhanced care and support programs and increased advocacy and awareness.

So please, send a generous gift today and join our fight to defeat Alzheimer's, the sixth leading cause of death in America

Thanks again for answering our urgent plea in commemoration of World Alzheimer's Day on September 21, when the world comes together to voice concern and need for more vital Alzheimer research and essential support programs and services, and to spread awareness and demand action against this devastating disease.

Sincerely,
Angela Geiger
Vice President
Alzheimer's Association

Ric's Linked-In Profile

2008-09-12T13:27:00.000-07:00

Dogs, Birds, Horses & More

2008-09-12T11:05:00.000-07:00

My father, Jesus, loves animals; he has as long as I can remember. A few months ago I bought him a couple of lovebirds; we named them Jesus and Blanca (in honor of my Pop and my late mother). In addition, we have two dogs,a chihuahua mix named: Canelo and a Schnauzer named Rusky.

Canelo is nine years old; which makes him a senior citizen in dog years. While Rusky is barely past three; which makes him an energetic teenager (in dog years).

Watching my father with his menagerie of pets makes me a firm believer in the therapeutic benefits of owning pets. Dad enjoys talking to his animals. And, I could swear that they understand him. He whistles alongside the birds during the afternoon hours. I even think that the birds look forward to their whistling sessions as they tend to follow his movements along their cage. It is quite a whimsical site.

The dogs are another matter. You see, the two dogs do NOT get along. Since we cannot get rid of neither canine (Canelo was my Mom's dog who was at her side at the San Diego Hospice when she passed away) and Rusky is just too darn adorable and attached to Pop; well giving either one away is just out of the question. The solution has been to segregate them from one another. Rusky owns the fenced in backyard; while Canelo resides in the also fenced-in front yard. They are, therefore, equal but separate (literally).

Meanwhile the birds reside in our very fancy garage (it has flooring, cabinets, even a pianola - quite nice); yet, if it is sunny, the cage hangs just outside by the garage door. My father likes to read the paper sitting in that area to hear the lovebirds sing; which they do enthusiastically on a daily basis.

Canelo, the Senior, is extremely mellow and is quite content to sleep as much as possible; taking a break now and again to eat and to rub against my pop's legs (I think that he thinks that he is a cat).

On the other hand, Rusky, the teenager, is tireless and obsessed with fetching his tennis ball to the point that I have to take it away from him to give us a rest. Rusky loves to play golf-fetch; where the ball is hit by a golf club, chased down by him and then he returns it exactly to the point where the ball was hit from.

My father loves all of these animal interactions; and he enjoys relating these stories to visitors and strangers alike. Truly, truly I feel that it helps him use his cognitive abilities in a better manner than he would if we didn't have the dogs and the birds.

In addition, my friends own the Happy Trails Horse Ranch near Border Beach. It is a five acre spread with more than fifty horses that are available for rentals. My Pop and I try to get there at least once a week. He enjoys feeding the horses carrots and such.

Bottom line: I truly believe that beyond medications and physical therapy; animals release a sort of invisible energy that Alzheimer's patients absorb in a very positive manner. I can literally see it in my father's eyes. He enjoys it; so I enjoy it.

David Hyde Pierce's recent CBS interview about Alzheimer's

2008-09-11T11:17:00.000-07:00

This is an important Early Show Interview on CBS: Actor David Hyde Pierce talks about the devastating effect that Alzheimer's has on the family and the importance of spreading awareness during an election year. Maggie Rodriguez reports.

Watch CBS Videos Online

Things Are Not Always What They Appear

2008-09-10T14:38:00.000-07:00

"Judge not, lest ye be judged..." is one most important and probably best known of the many quotes from the Bible. Yet, apparently in our modern day American culture; judging others has almost become an institutionalized form of behaving.

Judging other people's morals, lifestyles, behaviour, and so forth has become the norm. In reality, things are not always what they appear. Giving our family, neighbors and friends the benefit of the doubt has become the exception, rather than the rule.

Taking care of my father, Jesus, has greatly enlightened me as to how other people can be extremely judgemental. For example, most of my aunts on my father's side of the family (he has seven sisters) are in extreme denial as to his Alzheimer's situation. Some deny that he has it at all. They think this regardless of all of the medical evaluations that he has had during the course of these past eighteen months.

Funny enough, they all profess to be serious Catholics, yet rather than demonstrating compassion towards me as his caregiver, they demonstrate devout sarcasm. They judge me for how I take care of my Pop.

I find this most ironic since very few of them have actually found it in their hearts to find the time to visit us to see how we live and how I actually do take care of him. Instead they base their "judgements" on hearsay and innuendo.

Oh yes, they are very, very Catholic. After all, anyone can read the Bible and do the Rosary, yet it takes more; it takes having respect for others, it takes having a bit of compassion and it takes treating people with the dignity that we all deserve. It is said, actions speak louder than words.

Moreover, I have always tried to please my aunts in many diverse ways. Obviously, no one is perfect. Yet, aging and bitterness are no excuse for not actually practicing Catholic virtues; especially if you profess to be a "practicing Catholic" (see the irony).

Please note that some of my aunts have been very supportive, but most have not.

Ric Live from the Olympics

2008-08-15T11:59:00.000-07:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Even in Spanish...

2008-08-15T11:46:00.000-07:00

Ricardo Gomez-Roji ha destacado como mercadólogo, locutor y productor de TV y radio para varias empresas de gran relevancia, por mencionar solo algunas Pillsbury, Ocean Spray, Miller Brewing, General Motors. Pero hoy, desarrolla el cargo más importante de su vida; cuidar a su padre Jesús que sufre de Alzheimer's.

Fue en agosto del 2007, cuando murió su querida madre Blanca Elena Roji de Gómez, que el decide renunciar a su trabajo con Univision/Palm Springs y dedicarse de tiempo completo a cuidar de su padre, quien es veterano de la guerra coreana, carpintero, excelente esposo, padre, tío, compadre, padrino y amigo. "Primeramente, lo veo como mi obligación y sobre todo mi deseo de atender a mi padre, tal como él me atendió a mi durante mi niñez y sorprendentemente hasta la fecha", dijo Gómez.

PARA MAYOR INFORMACION: r.gomez.roji@gmail.com

YouTube - Extended Interview with Alzheimer's Caregiver, Ric Gomez

2008-08-13T14:33:00.000-07:00

YouTube - Extended Interview with Alzheimer's Caregiver, Ric Gomez

Alzheimer's Facts & Figures

2008-08-13T14:27:00.000-07:00

(from: http://www.kpbs.org/news/local;id=10909)

•Every 72 seconds someone develops Alzheimer’s Diseas

•The direct and indirect costs of Alzheimer’s and other dementias amount to more than $148 billion annually

•A person with Alzheimer's disease will live an average of eight years and as many as 20 years or more from the onset of symptoms.

•More than 7 of 10 people with Alzheimer's disease live at home. Almost 75% of the home care is provided by family and friends. The remainder is "paid" care costing an average of $12,500 per year. Families pay almost all of that out-of-pocket.

•Half of all nursing home residents suffer from Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder.

•The average cost for nursing home care is $42,000 per year but can exceed $70,000 per year in some areas of the country.

The PBS and YouTube Interviews

2008-08-13T14:16:00.001-07:00

These are the links to the interviews and the PBS program that features both my Pop, Jesus and myself. Check them out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTeXqE6slXY
http://www.kpbs.org/news/local;id=10909 - Later...

I'm Back!

2008-08-13T11:48:00.000-07:00

Wow, I cannot believe that I have not posted anything since March, but I have been so busy with Pop and recording spots (commercials) that I have not paid much attention to my blog.
Nevertheless, I have much to report and I shall begin by saying that I will update a bit later in the day. Call me a procrastinator, but do call me.

Happy St. Patrick's Day from Ric

2008-03-06T18:02:00.000-08:00

Don't send a lame St. Patrick's Day eCard. Try JibJab Sendables!

Groovy

2008-03-06T17:59:00.000-08:00

Everything is groovy like a movie. More details tomorrow.

What's Next?

2008-02-13T15:13:00.000-08:00

I was raised a Roman Catholic and I am a member of the Knights of Columbus. Every year during Lent, we celebrate the season through three different practices: 1. Prayer 2. Fasting 3. Generosity. This year my father and I have decided to attend Mass every single day during the 40 days of Lent.
It really is not as difficult as it may sound. The weekday Masses are only 30 minutes and Sunday Mass is one-hour long. More important, for my Dad, it is giving him a routine and he has an opportunity to meet with people closer to his age. We attend the 8AM morning celebration which allows us the rest of the day for other activities.
Yesterday, we went to Jimmy's for breakfast (after church). Just as we were arriving to the restaurant my Pop informed me that he had to go to the restroom (he urinates quite frequently). So he went ahead to the restroom, while I got a table. Ten minutes later, he had still not returned. I smelled trouble. I went to look for him. I passed a line of women waiting to enter the Women's restroom, and discovered my Pop was NOT in the Men's room. No, in fact, he had inadvertantly entered the Women's room.
Hence, the ladies waiting in line. I asked my Dad why he went in the wrong restroom, he said it was an honest mistake and that it was "no big deal" (in his reality nothing is a "big deal"). I apologized to the ladies, who all took it in stride and I made a mental note to never let him go to the restroom alone again.

The Trouble with Jesus Updates

2008-02-12T12:39:00.000-08:00

It has been more than a month since I have posted anything; it has been a very busy time. We celebrated my father's 8oth birthday on Feb. 2nd with a live band playing 60's pop and rock. We had over 100 guests throughout the day! I even rented a dance floor and everyone was up dancing at one time or another. Even my dad was dancing, at one point he was dancing with three lady friends at the same time.

On another note the local PBS TV station (KPBS) came out in late January to film a segment on both my pop and me. It was for a one hour special on Alzheimer's which will air on February 21st on KPBS at 8PM (PST). It will also be available on the web. The show is called Envision San Diego.

The reporter and cameraman actually spent over six hours following us around. My dad really comes off quite gracious and humorful during his interviews.

I will post instructions on how to view it via the Internet once I figure it out. I also promise to post more frequently now that things have settled down. Groovy.

2008 Has to be Better

2008-01-08T13:12:00.000-08:00

It has been well over a month since I have posted anything on this blog. My only explanation is that it was the first holiday season without my mother. The holidays were busy enough, but Christmas Eve would have been my mother's 75th birthday as well. Needless to say, my pop and I were a bit sentimental to say the least. As if that were not bad enough, we went to visit my mom at the cementary on her birthday early on the 24th. That is when my cousin Gabriel informed me that our other cousin Abram, had lost his seven-year-old daughter to a kidney infection. Destiny (her name) had passed-away two nights before Christmas. Obviously, 2007 was a terrible year for our family.
My father somehow comprehended that things were not right. Somehow we managed to survive the holidays. I only hope that 2008 will be better for all of us.
There were some good moments, I got to see all three of my daughters and my grandson Julian. Nevertheless, it is amazing to me how much my mother's presence is stll felt among both my father and me. We miss her very much.

Merry Christmas Soldiers

2007-12-04T21:51:00.000-08:00

When doing your Christmas cards this year, take one card and send it to this address. If we pass this on and everyone sends one card, think of how many cards these wonderful special people who have sacrificed so much would get. A Great Idea!!!

When you are making out your Christmas card list this year, please include the following:

A Recovering American Soldier
C/O Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue, NW
Washington,D.C. 20307-5001

If you approve of the idea, please pass it on to your e-mail list, thanks and Merry Christmas!

Please Tune In

2007-11-29T23:30:00.000-08:00

I will be hosting the launch of LOV Engineering's first live broadcast via the Internet! This Saturday, Dec. 1st at 1PM (PST). Just log in to www.onac.com -then click the LOV Engineering logo to see me in action. The show will be 30 - 50 minutes; however, it will be rerun during the week. Please, family and friends: check it out: www.onac.com

Jesus says: ¡Orale!

Good for Siggy

2007-11-29T22:13:00.000-08:00

My friend, Siggy just called me to inform me that he has met the love of his life. He actually said that he is considering the "M" word" - which means marriage. He has secretly been dating her six months (who knew?).

I'm happy for him, but that means that I am down to two good "single" (meaning divorced friends) that I can still hang out with.

I do not hang out with my married friends, it is just not feasible. Except for family reunions, but, those generally are not my train ride.

Besides, right now Jesus, my POP is numero uno in my book. Today, he took his dog for a walk. This is good; the MonaVie might be working.

NOTE: Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death. (John 8:51)

Feedback is Good

2007-11-28T12:07:00.000-08:00

I really appreciate all of the feedback that I have been receiving via both blog comments and e-mail (r.gomez.roji@gmail.com) regarding: The Trouble with Jesus.

This blog is becoming my outlet to vent; a self therapy of sorts. I have an important meeting next Monday with a representative from the Alzheimer's Association (see link on the top far right column) and apparently she is going to educate me on the many options that I have available.

I look forward to that meeting, also, to confirm if I am heading in the right direction in regards to pop.

Junky Junk Mail from Non-Profits Piss Me Off!

2007-11-27T18:53:00.000-08:00

What is it with an endless array of non-profit organizations that continuously solicit donations from senior citizens on fixed incomes? Some of these organizations are worse and more persistent than the homeless beggars one finds on city streets.

My father receives solicitations from these groups on a daily basis. Some weeks we receive literally more than a dozen requests for donations daily. And these folks are smart, they give you personalized address labels, yearly calendars, certificates of appreciation and more. You receive these gifts BEFORE you have made a donation. My father always feels obligated to give something in return for the nice gifts. Why don't these organizations limit the gifts only to actual contributors and use the money saved for their respective non-profit efforts?

Or some solicitors use envelopes or packaging on their mailings that resemble official government documents. I have to explain to my pop on a daily basis that he is under no obligation to donate anything whatsoever.

Nevertheless, my father has a long history of donating to several veteran's groups, to which he has given a priority in the past. Yet, some of these same groups use a sort of guilt-factor against the very seniors that have given so much to this country in past. Isn't it time to have a "DO NOT MAIL TO SENIORS LIST" to leave our seniors alone and in Peace?

Any time that my dad cannot finish the food on his plate, he informs me: "Enough is enough." In this way he informs me that he has finished eating. I say it is time for some sort of federal regulation saying leave our senior citizens alone with the gimmickry solicitations for funds. Tacky thieves apparently have no scruples when it comes to stealing from seniors. I say: "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!"

The Porn of it ALL!

2007-11-25T23:45:00.000-08:00

Well, if you must know I make some extra cash by writing or translating for certain companies or enterprises. By 10:00 a.m. tomorrow I have to have an English translation of a "DISCLAIMER" for a porn web site. No joke! Oh well, these are the things I do to make a living and be able to take care of my DAD.

In any case the real funny thing about tonight is that after I put my DAD to bed and I was kind of lost in an HBO movie, my pop woke up asking me for an Alka Seltzer. Obviously, he had some tummy problems. Well, I missed out on calculating our inventory of Alka Seltzer and I had none to be found. Fortunately, I remembered what my MOM did in similar circumstances. CARBONATO, Arm & Hammer Baking Soda!!! Yes! One teaspoon of the magic powder, dissolved in a glass of lukewarm water did the trick! After three consecutive burps; my DAD was like new and back in bed. He was happier than ever; so was I. Anyway, I had a piece of leftover Thanksgiving apple pie and I am like new. I may actually sleep tonight.

Coming soon: MonaVie - MORE DETAILS TO FOLLOW.

Thanksgiving Weekend Comes to an End

2007-11-25T15:28:00.000-08:00

This was the first Thanksgiving holiday/reunion without my mom and we missed her dearly. My family came to the rescue with the brunt of the cooking responsibility falling to Aunt Hortensia. The dinner was still held at my parent's house to keep with family tradition; moreover, I cooked my first turkey. I used a Jalapeño-garlic butter rub and apparently, it turned out just fine because there was hardly any left at the end of the night. My dad, Jesus seemed very happy with all of the commotion, he certainly enjoyed the company. Surfer cousin Danny and his girlfriend Meagan brought wine and delicious cheese trays. Uncle Lou and Aunt Elsa came almost straight from the airport having spent the last couple of weeks with their daughter (my cuz) and her husband Jon and son Louis in Virginia.

After dinner we all headed outside to hear cousin Javier play some outstanding tunes on his guitar, everything from Flamenco to the Beatles to more. Of course, we all joined in; as best as possible. You can check out Javier's band at www.thebajabugs.com. Friend Enrique came down from the OC and friend Joey called from Boston (unable to join us this year).

Most importantly, I swear I could feel my mom's presence, truly she was around. Enough therapy, more funky posts to follow...

Blowing in the Wind

2007-11-10T00:03:00.000-08:00

I don't get it. My dad is well mannered, very considerate to others beyond normal expectations. Yet, he has this habit of blowing his nose at the dinner table. I don't mean a gentle quiet blowing of the nose, but rather a louder-than-a-trumpet (Al Hirt style) blowing of the nose. I don't see others do this often, but when I do it usually is someone around my father's age or above. It must have been socially acceptable in the forties, fifties and so forth to blow your nose at the table. I must make a note to myself to research this further; because it certainly does get on my nerves. Other than that his table manners are impeccable.

Ham & Eggs

2007-11-09T08:54:00.000-08:00

My plans for this morning have been altered; my father awoke with a strong craving for ham and eggs plus a strawberry crepe. I could handle preparing the main dish at home, but, I am not too sure about the crepe. In reality, my dad wants to go to the Aunt Emma's Pancake House for breakfast, so we shall. So our visit to the Social Security office (to submit some paper-work) will be delayed, because as our routine should have it; every time we go to Aunt Emma's, we always head out to the 99 Cents Only Store where pop enjoys going on a twenty dollar shopping spree!

My Mother, My Father, Myself

2007-11-08T17:00:00.000-08:00

As I stated in an earlier post, my mother, Blanca passed away earlier this year. And there is not a day that goes by that my father and I do not think about her. After spending three months between hospitals, specialized clinics and finally the San Diego Hospice, 2007 has been a year of loss in many regards.

I've lost my mother, the ability to communicate (as I used to) with my father, my friends in Palm Desert, my dog (he ran away) and to a certain degree, I've lost my freedom. My day begins early, after the coffee is made and I do my rounds of opening windows, checking on the dogs, picking up the newspaper from the front yard, I check on my pop. By that time he is up making his bed (in his own special way). He insists on making his own bed which I consider his a.m. therapy. After he brushes his teeth and does his business he starts his day in the living room with a banana and a glass of grape juice while at the same time switching TV channels between Univision and the KTLA morning show. Afterwards, he does his low impact aerobics (which still makes me crack-up on a daily basis). I will be sure to give a full description of his workout at a later date.

After two cups of freshly brewed coffee, and a shave, we settle down for a light breakfast (of course the term light is not known among most of us of Mexican descent). I usually prepare breakfast; and I try to make his favorites. I do have a housekeeper who comes in three times a week; and usually she will prepare meals on those days.

Outside of this morning routine, the rest of the day has no set routine. Every day is an adventure. The trouble with Jesus is a work in progress, and we are still in the development process.

(Pictured left to right: Mama Blanca, son Ricardo and Papa Jesus on 9-17-06 at the J-Street Marina in Chula Vista, CA)

Brain-Drain

2007-11-08T16:51:00.000-08:00

There is so much to tell about the dreaded Alzheimer's Disease; it is an evil, evil illness that slowly drains its victim's brains from the ability to recognize family members and the ability to remember important events from their past. Even if that "past" was just a few weeks, days or even minutes ago.

I will leave the truly clinical observations of the disease to the experts, but I will probably set up some useful links at a future date.

Where Shall I Begin?

2007-11-08T11:09:00.000-08:00

My father Jesus is a 79-year-old Korean vet who was born in Santa Monica, California on February 3rd in 1928. He has had some symptoms of Dementia and/or Alzheimer's Disease for last couple of years. Tragically, after a lengthy bout with breast cancer my mother, Blanca passed away this past August 6th (2007).

I think that my mother's passing has accelerated the progression of my father's own disease. I quit my job in Palm Desert and moved back to San Diego to take care of my pop. It has been a major transition for the two of us.

Just imagine after sharing your bed with your wife of 55-years, you must now sleep alone. Your breakfast chats with the love of your life, have been replaced with normal talks with your 52-year old son. Your entire routine has been changed. The rug has quite literally been pulled right under your feet.

At first, this was what my father apparently felt like, but as time has passed - we have both slowly begun to adjust to a new routine. We still have our frustrations, but I am happy to say that we share more laughs than tears. My mom's death was a shock to the two of us; it is still very difficult in many, many regards.

Nevertheless, we shall both continue this journey and with the grace of GOD have more good times than bad. More details of this journey to follow.