my nephew: the fierce hockey player

This morning I had to wake up at 6am because I had to drive from Hayward to Newark, then to San Jose. My nephew Nikko (Theo Tydingco to most) and his hockey team, the Santa Clara Blackhawks were playing in the state championship. Knowing that I run on Filipino time, my sister told me the game started at 7:30am instead of 8am. I wasn't pleased when I arrived at her house and everyone was still getting ready. UGH!



The team huddle at the beginning of the game.

For those of you who don't know much about my nephew, he's only 13 years old. I've written about him here and here.

Anyway... I'm proud to say that Nikko won his THIRD straight STATE CHAMPIONSHIP! YEA! WOO! HOO! I have to say that I've never seen this team work so hard. They were in the game 100% and never took their lead for granted. The final score was 5-1.



The team celebrates their fifth goal of the game with only .4 seconds left.



The new state champions celebrate!

Toward the end of the second period, Nikko was chosen to do the penalty shot. After waiting for what seemed like hours, the whistle blew and he raced down the ice toward the opposing team's goalie. All I remembered was seeing Nikko speed down the ice, pass the goalie and then BAM! The puck landed inside the net. The crowd went wild! Rumor has it that Norbert, my brother-in-law fell off the bench because he was cheering so much. I was ecstatic and turned around to see my mother's reaction. I swear, the look on her face was priceless! She was banging on our good-luck noisemakers, screaming at the top of her lungs! I pointed to her and yelled, "That's your apo!" and she pointed back at me. It was so cute! I went up to my sister and bragged, "Did you see that goal? Yeah. That was my nephew!" She couldn't help but crack up! While I can't exactly describe the shot, all I can say is that it was a totally sweet goal.



Nikko on his way to completing the penalty shot.

Nikko has been getting a lot of hockey attention lately. It looks like he just might be going to Prague to play in an international tournament. Norbert decided to sell his motorcycle to pay for the trip. Times like these I wish I earned more money to contribute to Nikko's hockey fund. Nikko's relationship to this sport is truly a family affair.

During the victory lunch, Norbert mentioned the possibility of Nikko moving away to advance and develop his skills by playing for higher level teams. I can't believe we're at this point. He's only 13 for crying out loud! Norbert reminded us that Nikko is only five years away from college and this is about the time recruiters start looking and tracking players and their progress. I still can't believe we're at this point. I'm happy and proud of Nikko. It seems like yesterday he was just learning to skate and he would prance around the house with his t-shirt, underwear and skates (and nothing else) reciting "Heel, toe. Heel, toe." I look forward to seeing him succeed in whatever path he chooses. Again, I just can't believe we're at this point.

Anyway... here are some photos I took during the game. Unfortunately, it's been a while since I've done sports photos and unless we're outdoors, my camera just isn't fast enough to take good action pix. Also, I'm out of practice when it comes to sports photography (so sad - it used to be my passion at one point). I hope you enjoy them anyway:)



The new state champs head to Las Vegas for regionals on Wednesday.



Tina, Nikko, and Norbert at Dave & Busters for the victory celebration. (Note: Nikko is holding Tina's handy-dandy digital camera, where she recorded a short movie of Nikko's penalty shot. He watched himself score that goal at least ten times!

sweat.

Unfortunately, I haven't been running as much as I'd like to. Right now, my longest run happens about once a week and lasts for about 45 minutes on the elliptical machine at the gym. However, I'm at the martial arts studio about five to six days a week and in each class, we do running drills, so that ups my running a bit to and additional ten to 30 minutes a day, depending on how long the workout is. I also do my usual spin class, weight training and my new interest, yoga. I'm not always good, but I like the variety. I must say that I'm impressed by the fact that I can actually do these things and not bitch about it.

But I'm sad because I'm not running as much and sadly, I'm not missing running the long distances. Not that I'm giving up races, I'm just putting them on hold right now. I need to get through orals and have decided to hold off on all races until after the magic date: April 28th. That's when training will start and I'm hoping my first race will be the SF Aids 1/2 Marathon in July.

Until then, I'm keeping the workout schedule I have right now.

Lately I've been mustering in and actually enjoying the feel of a good sweat. You know what kind of sweat I'm talking about - not the kind that makes you feel dirty and stinky (like the kind that runs through your body after nine hours under the hot Maui sun). The kind of sweat I'm talking about is the kind that cleanses you - takes away the impurities and just makes you feel good. If you don't know what kind of sweat I'm talking about, then I feel sorry for you.

I think it's yoga. Taking classes with my totally awesome yoga instructor Dolian, a 60-something, spunky Pinay who isn't afraid to chase down Justin Timberlake because he's her granddaughter's favorite entertainer. I adore Dolian. While yoga should be relaxing (which it sometimes is), I can't help but work up a really hard sweat. For some reason, that sweat always makes me feel so refreshed. I like to think it's my body's way of purging evil and bitterness.

It's also the boxing training. I'm getting flashbacks of when I started with cardio kickboxing at Santa Barbara. Each time I was in class I'd leave puddles of sweat on the mats. I used to bring a towel just to wipe away the puddles. Although all the sorority girls in the studio didn't think it was cute, I didn't give a shit. Sweat made me feel brand new. It still makes me feel brand new. Besides, my sweat caught the attention of Abel, the to-die-for tall, dark and handsome instructor that all the sorority girls wanted. Abel and I became good friends because apparently, some guys appreciate a woman who isn't afraid of a little hard work and sweat. (I always thought wimpy little girls at the gym were annoying, so it was nice to actually meet a guy who felt the same way.) Abel loved the fact that I wasn't afraid to sweat and let a part of myself go in the name of a good workout. Abel used to clean my puddles for me. He could sympathize. He left puddles too.

Nothing much has changed because at the new studio, I still leave puddles and am often found wiping the river of sweat that begins on the bottom of my chin and runs down to my chest. Sometimes I feel like I'm a walking gatorade commercial. Sweat. It is in me. I'm sure folks still think it's disgusting. I still don't give a shit. I like Brad's take on women and sweat: "There's nothing sexier than going to the gym and seeing a woman wipe the sweat off her brow - not a dainty sweat - but a good, hard sweat." Brad likes students who work hard. In the studio, there's no point in working any other way.

I sweat a lot. When I'm boxing. When I'm running, When I'm spinning, When I'm in yoga. It cleanses me and leaves funny wet marks on my dri-fit clothing. I'm not vain in the gym. I don't smother my face with make-up before a workout. I don't wear cute, matching clothing either. I don't care what I look like when I work out. I'm there to work and sweat it out. I don't care if the other girls stare in disgust. I figure that if something that others think is disgusting, but makes me feel so brand new has to be a good thing.

the end of the Runbutans

This morning I checked my e-mail and found a message from Runbu-Coach Rex de Guia. It looks like the Runbutans are out of commission. Currently, I'm not sure how I feel about this. I'm sad, but another part of me understands. Please note that although the Runbutans are closing shop, I will still maintain this blog. Here's Rex's letter.


End of the Runbutan Road, Thank you

Wed, 1 Feb 2006 09:51

Dear Runbutans:

I hope this note finds you all in good spirits and in good health. I would just like to let all of you know how much it has been an honor and a privilege getting to know you all through the Manilatown Running Collective (a.k.a. Runbutans). It has truly been a great experience for me to lead such wonderful groups of people in marathon training. The Runbutans have raised a great deal of money and have participated in many Manilatown events over the years. Your dedication and support has helped Manilatown open its doors to the public in the New International Hotel. Thanks for your support and hard work over the years.

It is with great sadness that I announce that the Manilatown Running Collective (a.k.a. The Runbutans) will not be continuing in 2006 and beyond. After negotiations with Manilatown, I have realized that Manilatown Heritage Foundation does not have the capacity to support the running collective in a fashion that will allow the program to be fully appreciated and sustained in the future. As a result, we will be discontinuing the program. The Manilatown Heritage Foundation has a great future with exciting programs that hopefully will grow and commemorate the spirit of the International Hotel. Please know that you played a great part in its growth. I encourage everyone to continue to support Manilatown and help its continued development. At this current time, it just does not have the capacity to ensure the continued success of the running group.

As we discontinue the program, I believe it is important to not allow the end of the program to diminish the great friendships and ground breaking feats that have characterized the program in the last three years. You raised a great deal of money to allow Manilatown to open its doors. You participated in many events in support of the growth and celebration of the on-going story of the International Hotel and Manilatown. You pushed yourself beyond what you thought was possible and joined a select group of the population that can say that you've gone the 26.2 mile distance. Although we end an era of running for Manilatown, we must no allow the end of the program to diminish all of the wonderful blessings that have resulted in the past three years of Runbutan Running. There was a great deal to celebrate and we must not let the end of the group take away from the beautiful moments of running that made the past three years so special.

This is a difficult time for Alex and I because the development of the running collective was truly a labor of love. Many people think that they can just take a 30-week schedule and run a group of people through it. Alex and I know that this is simply not the case. Two years before starting the running group, we ran several marathons to get more experience. We then helped to train friends to do the 26.2 mile distance which went well. We then took a group to do Bay to Breakers in 2003. Then we took a pilot group, the first Runbutan Team, to the Honolulu Marathon in 2003. We then proceeded to take three more teams (OGG 04, HNL 04, and OGG 05) to marathons while adding a successful fundraising components that helped Manilatown through critical years that led to a successful opening last year. We have really felt a great deal of joy in meeting wonderful runners along the way who we now consider family. Best of all, we remain perfect. All of our runners who have completed the 30-week training program went on to marathon day to run to victory. We are very proud of this, and we worked extremely hard over many years to make each runner's 30 week journey a successful one.

I would like to thank all of the coaches over the years especially Alex de Guia, Cici Ambrosio, and Patrick Cabebe who helped with all Runbutan Teams over the past three years. No one can truly appreciate your dedication and love as I have over the years. There would be no Runbutans without them. Although Alex and I are deeply saddened by the end of the group, we are very proud of all of the Runbutan Teams over the years. You honored your families, our community, and the Manilatown/International Hotel struggle as you ran with conviction and integrity in Emeryville, San Francisco, Honolulu, and Maui. Thank you so much.

As we discontinue the group, it is my hope that we not be saddened by the end, but rather celebrate the great life and spirit of the Manilatown Running Collective. I will take the hilarious moments, the great love and camaraderie within our team, and your many acts of courage to the end of my days. I am truly enriched to have taken the Runbutan journey with you. As I have said many times over the course of the past three years, it has been an honor and a privilege to have run along side you. Keep running. Don't stop. Go Runbutans.

Sincerely,

Rex de Guia

fundraising ideas?

It looks like my nephew has been invited to play in a hockey tournament in the Czech Republic in April. However, the trip is going to cost $2500. It's a great opportunity and would be a shame to pass up, but the family just doesn't have the money right now. However, we haven't declined the offer just yet. If any of you have any inventive fundraising ideas, please let me know so I can pass it on to my sister. Or better yet, if any of you want to contribute to Theo Tydingco's hockey fund, please contact me and I'll give you details on how to make a tax-deductible donation to making this island boy's dreams come true:)

-Proud auntie signing off.

This just in...

The Nike Women's Marathon is now officially on the books. It's going to happen on Sunday, October 22, 2006. In case any of you are interested in doing a marathon (half or full), this is one I HIGHLY recommend. It's well-organized, you can't beat San Francisco, and the company is great. Also, the goodies are nice (at the finish you get unlimited Luna Bars, bananas, Jamba Juice Stuff, etc.) Although the course is a bit hilly, it also has an awesome oxygen bar, banana stop, foot care stop, and my favorite - the chocolate mile. There are also DJ stops to help motivate the runners. Yes, men can do it, but I think there are a few rules they need to follow. Check out www.NikeMarathon.com for more details.

If this does not conflict with this year's Ford Fellows conference, I will definitely be there.

Hope to see you there too!

my first hockey game

Just a fun little note...

On Friday, December 30th, my sister and brother-in-law scored some great Sharks tickets and I got to see my first SJ Sharks game! Yea! It was a great game and the Sharks won 5-2. Also, my favorite playerJonathan Cheechoo scored. What a great first game!

Of course, Nikko is totally laughing at me because it took me this long to go to a Sharks game, whereas he was only four months old when he went to his first game. Speaking of which... for those of you that read the article about my brother-in-law and nephew, here is a link to the actual TV coverage of that fateful game when Norbert caught the flying puck with Nikko in tow. Enjoy!

Half Marathon, anyone?

As I've mentioned, I've given up on the idea of running a full marathon. After doing the Nike Women's Half Marathon last October, I decided that half marathons are the way to go. Below is a list of half marathons in California, as of today. I bolded the ones that I'm going to train for. If any of you want to join me, let me know so we can get to training. If you want to find more races, simply log on to the Runner's World magazine website and look for race calendars. They update it pretty regularly and have a great search function. Hope to see you all at the next race!

Schedule of Half Marathons in California posted on Runner's World as of Jan 2, 2006:

Sunday, January 08, 2006; OC Marathon; Newport Beach CA

Sunday, January 15, 2006; Carlsbad Marathon & Half Marathon; Carlsbad, CA

Saturday, January 28, 2006; Bakersfield Track Club Half Marathon and 5K; Bakersfield, CA

Sunday, February 05, 2006; 24th Annual Davis Stampede; Davis, CA

Sunday, February 05, 2006; Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Half Marathon & 5K; San Francisco, CA

Sunday, February 05, 2006; Pacific Shoreline Marathon and Half Marathon; Huntington Beach; CA

Saturday, February 11, 2006; The Buffalo Run - Catalina Island; Catalina Island, CA

Saturday, March 04, 2006; Woodside King's Mountain Half Marathon & 5 Mile; Woodside, CA

Sunday, March 05, 2006; Palm Springs Half Marathon; Palm Springs, CA

Saturday, March 25, 2006; Napa Valley Trail Marathon, 1/2 Mar & 10K; Calistoga, CA

Saturday, April 01, 2006; Golden Gate Headlands Marathon, 1/2 Mar & 7 Mile; Sausalito, CA

Saturday, April 08, 2006; Skyline Ridge Half Marathon & 10K; Palo Alto, CA

Saturday, May 20, 2006; Palos Verdes Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K; San Pedro, CA

Sunday, July 16, 2006; Carneros Wine Country Half, Napa to Sonoma; Napa/Sonoma, CA

Sunday, July 30, 2006; The San Francisco Marathon 13.1MI., 5K, 26.2MI; San Francisco, CA

Sunday, October 08, 2006; Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon San Jose; San Jose, CA

Sunday, October 29, 2006; Metro Silicon Valley Marathon, Half Marathon, 5k; San Jose, CA

Ottawa update

Hello all! This is just a quick update about the Ottawa tournament my nephew Nikko was in. As I mentioned before, he won game MVP for their first game and was named "Best Defenseman" for the tournament all-star game. The "Best Defenseman" title is an important one, as this tournament had participants from all over the world. The Blackhawks ended up winning two games and tying one game.

The Ottawa trip was bittersweet for the family because due to some controversy about the all-star game (and some other brewing issues), my brother-in-law voluntarily stepped down from his position as the team's assistant coach. As far as I know, many parents are disappointed and some are simply outraged because they know how important he and my sister are to the team. Scheduling study halls, organizing small field trips to the local sites they travel to, running practices, and of course, making time for the team to play and bond are of the many things Norbert does as an assistant coach. Right by his side is my mighty sister Tina who pulls through with a lot of the ideas Norbert conjures up (but doesn't always know who to execute). For example, she helps with their website, creates team communication books for when they go on the road, and any other project that comes up (if you look at their website, the "Happy Hockeydays" photo was designed by my sister, along with their holiday cards). It's a somber way to start off the new year.

On a lighter side, below are the photos and captions that were in the Ottawa Sun that were printed with the story about Norbert and Nikko. Enjoy!



Santa Clara Blackhawks major peewee AA coach Norbert Tydingco and his son Theoren ham it up on Parliament Hill while in town for the 7th Annual Bell Capital Cup which opened Thursday December 29.



The Santa Clara Blackhawks ham it up for the camera by doing jumping jacks on the steps of Parliament Hill on the opening day of the 7th Annual Bell Capital Cup Thursday, December 29.

Chamoru Hockey in Canada

For those of you who know me, you know that I can't say enough about my hockey-playing nephew Nikko. He's a great kid and a phenomenal hockey player who has a genuine love for the sport. His play record speaks for itself (and if you're still not convinced, just spend 15 minutes with me and I can spout off all his major accomplishments). Speaking of which, if you check out this website, you'll see a quote from Nikko (his real name is Theo Tydingco). If you click on the "video of the skate weight in action -- 4mb .wmv" which is right next to "What the players are saying," the skater in the video is Nikko!

As you can see, I'm a VERY PROUD auntie. There's just something cool about a Chamoru-Filipino hockey player that I think is fascinating. It's also amazing for me to watch Nikko grow up and develop into a great player. Granted, I do worry that he'll have hockey burnout and eventually hate the sport, but right now, I just don't see it. He has a lot of fun, takes everything in stride, and is simply not a spoiled child (because if he were I'd slap him in the head!). The family loves him, is extremely supportive and of course, is proud if him. In fact, I'm always in awe of my niece Sonia Ann and nephew Brendan because they love their brother so much that I can't recall any bouts of jealousy towards Nikko. That's true family love for you.

I always tell Nikko that if he were ever to play for team USA, that I would make t-shirts for the family that read, "THEO'S FAMILY." Additionally, I would be in the stands madly waving a Guam and Philippine flag in each hand.



This picture was taken about three years ago as well. It was during a tournament that my nephew and his team competed in. Nikko is the one in the middle with the "C" on his jersey. Yes folks, was and still is the team captain.

Just so you all know, we're not pushing Nikko to play pro hockey (he's only turning 13 for God's sake!). Whatever happens with his hockey life is completely up to him. I'm just glad that I get to watch from behind the glass.

Anyway... he and my brother-in-law Norbert are in Canada for a hockey tournament. Long story short, the local Ottawa paper wrote a story about Norbert and Nikko. It looks like they were also fascinated about a Chamoru father who wanted his son to play hockey. (I'm assuming that they were also impressed because Nikko was the MVP of their team's first tournament match, where he scored the only goal. He was also named "Best Defenseman" in the tournament's All-Star game. Okay... enough of the proud auntie moment.) When you get a chance, check out the article!



This is my brother-in-law, Norbert Tydingco. This was taken about three years ago during Christmas. Note: His eyes are closed because he's totally feelin' the music:)

Just in case the story is down, here's the full text. If you want to see the photo of Norbert catching the puck during my Nikko's first hockey game, click here (and then click on the prompt to see a larger photo). Man! I can't believe it's been that long since Nikko was a baby. Enjoy!

Fri, December 30, 2005
Visitor loves Hockey Country
BELL CAPITAL CUP: Guam native shares passion for sport with son on California club

By BARRE CAMPBELL, OTTAWA SUN

FOR HIS first 22 years on this planet, Norbert Tydingco lived in a tropical paradise, growing up on the tiny island of Guam in the western Pacific.

At this time of year there, the temperature reaches the 30s (yes, Celsius) and doesn't drop much lower than the low 20s at night.

Yet Tydingco gave all that up when he moved to the San Francisco Bay area where he fell for a Canadian obsession known as hockey.

The game means so much to him now that he's on the coaching staff of his son's peewee team, the Santa Clara Blackhawks, competing in this year's Bell Capital Cup.

While relatives and friends in Guam are enjoying Pacific breezes, Tydingco is experiencing a vastly different climate here in Ottawa.

"Well, let's put it this way," he said after his team's first tournament game yesterday at Carleton University. "I spent more time climbing coconut trees when I was a kid than I did skating on frozen ponds."

Tydingco never saw snow until after he moved to California and drove into the mountains near Lake Tahoe. It makes one wonder how a person from a place so foreign to a game played on ice could become so enamoured of it.

SHARKS FAN

In Tydingco's case, a trip to a San Jose Sharks game against the Calgary Flames got him hooked. The diminutive Tydingco paid special attention to one particular visiting player, Theoren Fleury.

"I couldn't believe that in what's supposedly a big man's game, here's this little guy about 5-foot-6 and 160 lbs. going around out there proving everybody wrong," he said. "And I was thinking, 'That's me.' "

Tydingco told his wife Christina that night that if they ever had a son, his name would be Theoren.

And sure enough, when that baby boy came along, he was named Theoren Nicholas to go along with Tydingco -- for the planned initials TNT.

Three months later, Norbert and Christina dressed their baby in a white sleeper outfit and took him to his first NHL game in San Jose -- against Calgary and Fleury. He ended up getting a puck that flew into the stands.

"I think it was (Joe) Nieuwendyk who tipped the puck and it just started coming toward us,'' recalled Tydingco.''There I was with a baby in one arm, trying to get the puck with the other."

The moment was captured on the game broadcast, and Tydingco has an image from it posted on the team's website. Wearing a Sharks jersey, he's shown holding the puck in his right hand while cradling his son with his left arm.

The Blackhawks, coached by Gary Bortolotto whose mother is from Sudbury, will try to see as much of Ottawa as possible before the tournament wraps up Monday.

But no matter what happens in the tournament, they want to enjoy playing hockey in a city where the sport reigns supreme.

"Back home, my friends in baseball tell me to quit hockey and concentrate on baseball, but I just ignore them," said Blackhawks forward Mattia Bortolotto.

He's having too much fun with this bunch.

Forward Wesley Starr, who's considered the team comedian, had a rough day because most of his equipment was left behind in California. Luckily, he has big feet and borrowed the coach's skates, a helmet from another California team here, and shinpads that were a few inches too short.

These are the kind of lifetime memories created by tournaments such as the Bell Capital Cup.

As for Theo Tydingco, he'll go into the books as the first Santa Clara Blackhawks player to score a Bell Capital Cup goal.

Despite playing with only nine skaters because some players couldn't make the trip, the Blackhawks managed to score a 1-0 win over the Ottawa Sting in the Major Peewee AA division game.

The lone goal came late in the third when Tydingco ripped a shot from the right point through traffic to score during a power play.

It was a victory for the Blackhawks and northern California.

With an assist from Guam and its coconut trees and ocean breezes.

barre.campbell@ott.sunpub.com

gearing up for a new year of running

A few weekends ago was the premiere of the Runbutan 2005 Maui DVD. It was put together by Mateo Reyes and I must say, he did a phenomenal job. I loved the way he juxtaposed the marathon footage with the I-Hotel footage. Also, his music selection was great. I can't say enough about it. My favorite part was the special features that had Coach Herb and Mark Ramos's original song, "26 miles ain't no joke." Bravo Mateo for such a great DVD.

It's funny because as I'm watching the footage, I kept thinking, "what a bunch of posers!" For some reason, everyone looks so happy to be running the actual marathon. When the cameras go on, the smiles turn on. It's hilarious! For me, I remember the actual marathon being a lot more grueling than the DVD shows. I was glad to see that I wasn't in the footage much because all I could remember was the heat, the misery, and the guilt that came over me for not pulling my weight for my team. I think Cici has some photos of me hunched over in complete agony. Those photos encapsulate the actual marathon experience for me.

Just to clarify, there is a big difference between running the actual marathon and training for the marathon. The training was a lot of fun and hard work, but the company, laughter, and good times with folks is immeasurable. For that, I wouldn't trade in being a runbutan for anything.

Sadly, I won't be running anymore full marathons. However, that doesn't necessarily mean that my running days are over. I've just decided that half marathons are the way to go for me. They're gentler on the body and allow me to pursue other athletic adventures. Right now, I'm running in the gym (but will probably take Rex's advice and go on an actual outdoor run on Dec 31st to celebrate my year of running), doing yoga, spinning and strength training. Also, I'm back to krav maga training at a new studio in Union City called One World Martial Arts. Right now, the building is still under construction, but classes are offered for FREE (until construction is complete)! So check them out if you're interested.

As the year is close to an end, I am gearing up for the future of my running. As mentioned before, I needed running shoes and orthotics, both of which I finally invested in. For my orthotics, I went to a place in Fremont called Foot Solutions. The people there were great! I went there before the marathon to show them my old orthotics and explain my blister problem. They helped me fix that problem by replacing my old orthotics with an arch support. Although I still got blisters during the actual marathon, they came from the sponges and not the insert. When I went in to get my new orthotics, they took a digital, 3-D imprint of my feet. The actual inserts came perfectly molded to my feet. I didn't need a break-in period at all. They're perfect! I also invested in a brand new pair of running shoes. I switched to Brooks Aerial, which have treated me well so far. A very big THANK YOU to my family and friends who so kindly donated to my "running fund." You gave me all the money I needed to get my new year of running started. Thanks!

So cheers to everyone who ran this year or plans on running (anything) next year. If you know of any good, local races, please let me know. I'm looking to run the SF Half Marathon in July and the Nike Women's Marathon in October. I'm hoping to do one in March or April as well. Any takers? Contact me. I could always use the company.

holiday reunions

The rain has been making it difficult for me to want to run these days. I'm still shooting for the half marathon in February, but my training schedule is off. Oh well...

I hope everyone's holiday was great. Mine was pretty decent. On Sunday we had a reunion of sorts with my cousins, who I haven't seen since I was 12 years old! It's funny because this reunion is actually runbu-related. Earlier this year, Coach Alex and Coach Rex ran into my cousin Cha-Cha at a family gathering (quite a small world we live in). Through them I connected with Cha during my nephew Ian's baptism (you remember the fierce Ian-saurus Rex from a few postings ago). Since then, we've kept in touch. Cha and her siblings Din-Din, Bing-Bing and A-A (yes, we are a Filipino family who abides by Filipino naming rules: pick a sound and repeat twice; that sound will be your new nick name) were in town for a high school band reunion this weekend. This is how we were able to meet up with my long, lost family over some yummy dim sum. Unfortunately, their younger sibling Anjoo wasn't there, neither was their mom, my Auntie Gigi. Anjoo and Auntie were in LA taking care of the kids. We're hoping to have a bigger and more proper reunion sometime in the near future. Until then, here are some photos. Enjoy!

P.S. I just wanted to give Coach Rex and Coach Alex a big THANK YOU for reconnecting me with my family. It's been great catching up with them.



The Kids (sans Anjoo): Bing, Cha, Ian, A-A and Din.



This is me with my brother Gerry and cousin Bing.



The whole clan. Standing L-R are: A-A, Din, Liezel, Cha and me. Seated are: Bing, Andy, Ian, Uncle Jun, Auntie Lily, my mom, my niece Sonia Ann, and my brother Gerry.

Christmas Wishes and the next race

Lately I've been feeling a little down and decided to cope by planning my next race. After some searching online, I decided that my next race would be this:

Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk
Sunday, February 5, 2006 8:00 a.m.
Stow Lake & JFK Drive, GG Park
San Francisco , CA

Registration info can be found here. Early registration is only $35.

Like I said, I would do only half marathons at best. It's happening on Superbowl Sunday, so while the nation is obsessing over a football game I could care less about, I'll be taking it to the streets of San Francisco. I'm excited about this run, but am a bit nervous because it looks like I'll be running it alone. However, if any of you would like to join me and the masses, please let me know. I'm always looking for folks to train with (and who are willing to run at my slow-ass pace).

With that, I'm needing to get back into training. This is a good thing because in truth, Maui and Nike kinda scarred me. I think this is my redemption race. I'm not running for time, really. I just want to finish before the cones go up. I don't think that's a lot to ask. Again, any takers?

With this new goal in mind, I'm also needing new running shoes. It looks like I'll be needing some orthotics which run about $250 (but well with the investment because they protect my knees, last 3-5 years and are custom made for my big, flat feet). I'm also needing a new pair of running shoes which run about $130. Luckily, my sister is really good at organizing the family to contribute to my running fund in lieu of birthday and Christmas presents. I don't think she'll be able to collect the whole $380 I need, but she'll collect enough to help me out. I've also scheduled myself to work a lot this holiday season in order to come up with the rest of the funds. However, if any of you or your rich friends want to help fund my hopeful running career, feel free to contact me:).

Hmph. If you told me this time last year that I'd be running half marathons for leisure, I'd probably call you crazy... Now look who's the crazy one!

pinchers and archers party at Zebulon

Last night was the big b-day bash for the November and December babies at Zebulon. Although I arrived late, I had a total blast! Here are pix from the event. Much thanks to Rex, Alex and Herb for organizing this fantastic gathering of folks. Also, much appreciation goes to the people at Zebulon for letting us use the place and for doing a great job at keeping guests hydrated. Finally, thanks to all the people that showed up. Hope you had a wonderful time. Enjoy the photos! (Note: I do have more pix and if you'd like me to send them off to you, please let me know.)



the family My family was nice enough to show love in the city. I'm here with my cousin Ferdie, cousin-in-law Andy, my cousin Liezel (I grew up on Guam with Ferdie and Liezel), my sister Tina (whose face is covered), and my niece Sonia Ann. Missing from the photo are my brother Gerry and his girlfriend Faye.



the housemates With Ana (my dear friend from high school and former college roomie. yes, she has stories... but so do I) and Jen (my current housemate).



the Runbu-divas Well, at least a few of us: with Kimmy, Alex, and Tina talking about DRA-MA over a sip (more like a gallon) of haterade and laughter.



the cake No birthday party would be complete without a cake for the twelve celebrants and a hundred or so of their guests.



the wish Twelve people blowing on one cake while a folks watch... interesting:)



the post-cake affair With Rex and Tina after wiping Ryan's cake off our faces. Who's random hand is that? (Note: You all missed the icing cleaning at the DJ stand - Herb, Alex, you two know what I'm talking about! Not so much sexy as it was funny!)



the crowd clears And congregates outside to coordinate rides to Lucky Chances for Filipino breakfast. Rod, Tina, Herb, Arlene and I take advantage to the now emptied room for this photo.



the loving couple I miss these two! Ladies and Gentlemen, the beautiful and fabulous Rod and Arlene.

finding Bullet X

Hello all!

A special thank you goes to Coach Rex for sharing this info about Bullet X Marisigan. I'm inspired by the woman I run for:)

Halloween Pix

With all the baby talk (as we anticipate the arrival of Bean), I wanted to share some photos of my adorable nephew Ian Wong. FYI: the theme of the halloween costume was the Iansaurus-Rex hatching from the egg. Enjoy!


Iansaurus-Rex freshly hatched from the egg (a.k.a. Daddy Andy)


Iansaurus-Rex is going to get you. GRRRR!


An exhausted Iansaurus-Rex gets some rest after terrorizing the neighborhood for free candy.

more runbu-goddess pix

Thanks to Runbu-Goddess Cici for sharing her pix from the Nike Women's Half Marathon. Enjoy!

why run like a girl when you can runbutan like a goddess.

Like I said, yesterday was the Nike Women's Marathon/Half Marathon, which I ran with some other Runbu-goddesses. It's a great event and if any of you are ever interested in running, I highly recommend it. It's well organized (which is much more than I can say for Maui) and the goodies at the end are awesome. The finisher's medal is made by Tiffany & Co. Since I can't rely on anyone to have enough sense to actually get me a goodie from Tiffany & Co., I decided that my best chance of actually getting something from there would be to earn it myself. You also get a dri-fit finisher's shirt (which is perfect because real runners don't use cotton), a Jamba Juice card and green tea shots, luna bars, bananas, a massage (if you have the patience to wait for one) and some other goodies I'm blanking out on. The important one is of course, the necklace. Oh! and you get Ghirardelli chocolate (chocolate caramel, my favorite!) at one of the stops. Yummy!

I didn't train much for this run because I knew I was walking it (with CiCi and Angie who is eight months pregnant). Also, I haven't mentally recovered from Maui and have been avoiding training out of pure fear and damage. Ricky and Lovella also joined in and other Runbu-goddesses ran the course that day as well. In preparing for this half marathon, I realized how scarred I was by Maui because I kept having anxieties about conking out and not finishing. I also learned that I have absolutely no desire to run another full marathon. I've run two in my life (Maui and the trial for Maui) and that's all I need to know. Luckily, I didn't conk out. We all crossed (and we all got our necklaces:)

However, there were points during the course where I was secretly freaking out. Into the course, we kept falling farther and farther behind, which I was expecting because the theme of the day was: "It's not about the time. It's not about the distance. It's about making sure Angie gets to the finish safe and sound." However, when we were walking with Fiona (the sweeper) and watching the cones and barricades get picked up, I kept getting flashbacks from Maui. I thought to myself, "Here we go again. No cones, no music, no cheering section, no time clock, no finish line banner, no love." What made it worse was when we were at the Luna Bar/Cliff Shot stop, we were going through a box picking up Luna Bar samples (I can't take Cliff Shots because they make my blood sugars go way too high) and one of the volunteers tried to stop us from getting food by saying "No wait! This box belongs to someone!" (Apparently, the volunteers got to take home the leftovers, and called dibs on the goods before we made it to that stop.) Cici gave the volunteer a dirty look and told her that we're part of the race and that we needed food. The volunteer surrendered and we rummaged through someone's box. That episode irritated me and made me feel like this was Maui all over again.

But still. We traveled on through the toughest part of the course which had some major hills and major drops. (I have to mention the handsome toffee-tanned man with salt-and-pepper hair that was running up the hill as we were running down it. He was older, totally fit and gliding through the hill like a surfer riding a wave on the North Shore. Such a delicious treat after being snubbed at the Luna Bar/Cliff Shot stop. DAMN!)

Seeing the cones go up and finding myself and my team at the very end of the line made me second guess my desire to run. Psychologically, I don't think I can take being last anymore... not with the amount of work that I put in to training. It's not that there's something wrong with being last. In fact, I can tell you from personal experience that there is more pride in being last because it means that you made it - even when everyone else would have given up, you crossed that finish line when everyone thought you would never pull through. Taking in the glory that comes from being first place is easy. Toughing it out to last place takes real courage.

For me, and at that point, I was feeling like training wasn't paying off and that maybe I just wasn't meant to be anything other than last place (this is in reference to Maui, not San Francisco). Sometimes I play Maui over and over in my head and I ask myself what I did and where the training went wrong. A month later I still don't have the answers. I figured that yesterday would be my last race and that I needed to find a new sport.



Obviously, these feelings weren't things I was going to share with folks at that moment. Besides, spirits were high, Angie was pulling through like a champ, Ricky was taking good care of her, and we were all having a great time chatting it up. Between the pope germs, hearing Fiona's triathalon adventures, and poking fun at Lovella's love connections, we were having a great time. It was also entertaining watching people react to Angie's belly. My favorite comment was, "Look at how pregnant that girl is!"

As we were approaching the Cliff House, we could see Alex, Rex and Herb in the distance carrying signs of love and support. Call it fate or good timing, but I really needed to see them at that point. Something about seeing the words "PINAY POWER" in the distance really energized me (and seeing Herb's version of Polynesian dancing just cracked me up!). I was really touched that people woke up, battled with the traffic and parking just to see us cross the finish. (I was also touched that Alex had blisters from cheering so much. But just so you know, my blisters are still bigger than yours:) I was suddenly reminded of why I run to begin with. It's not about the race, the time, or the distance. Runbutan running is about finishing as a team, under our own terms, regardless of whether the finish line is there or not. I remembered what I said the night after the Maui marathon - for Filipinos, for people of color, there is no finish line because the challenges we face never have an end. We don't have that luxury.

The final leg of the course was tough and although we all knew Angie was going to make it, we were still concerned and playing it extra safe. During the Golden Gate Park portion of the course, Alex, Rex and Herb joined in following through on the day's theme: "It's about making sure Angie gets to the finish safe and sound." Because it was late in the day, they re-routed people, so we took a slightly different course than earlier half marathoners. Luckily, they saved chocolate and water for us:)

Approaching the finish was everything I imagined a finish would be. Hundreds of people were lined up screaming and cheering. The banner was up and in bold orange colors, I could see the words "FINISH LINE." Below it was the time clock. As we stepped on the first sensor, the announcer declared our finish by reciting our names.

I crossed my first official finish line.

It was great seeing Angie cross and an honor to cross beside her. When I think about it, we were there for Angie, Ricky and little bean-bean because the Niervas were there for the team. From the Pixar incentive to the cooking in Maui, they really pulled through for our us, which is why they were followed by an entourage of support. Also, many of us are runbutans because we have a love and concern for future Runbu-runners (including bean-bean and Gani). It was a beautiful sight and I'm glad I did it.

I would like to give special recognition to other Runbu-goddesses who conquered yesterday's course including: Gail and Helen's sister Leina who ran the full marathon; and April, Celisse, Cici, Cheryl, Lea, Patrice, Tiffany and of course, Mama Angie who finished the half marathon. Additionally, a very special THANK YOU to those of you who came out and showed your love and support: Nerinna, Herb, Alex, Rex, Kimmy and Gani, Ryan, and all the other folks whose names I'm blanking out on. You all ROCK!

Finally, I had a great time at the Hukilau for our post-race meal, and I look forward to more gatherings where we get to discuss horiscopes, palm reading, and dental floss dates. I'll see you all at Zebulon on Wednesday!




While walking through Golden Gate Park, I told Alex that my goal is to run (actually run) a race and not see the cones go up. I also declared that I would be back next year to run the Nike Women's Half Marathon. I will finish in my own time, under my own terms. With crowds cheering, a time clock, and an actual finish line (that has no end).

Note: A very special thanks to Runbu-goddess nerinna for sharing her photos.

pope germs

Yesterday I walked the Nike Women's Half Marathon with Angie, Cici, Ricky, and Lovella. Although this was not an official Runbutan event, a group of Runbu-goddesses decided to participate in the event. After six hours of the conquering the course, we crossed the finish line with Mama Angie and Papa Ricky.

Of course, some stories have to be told so here it goes... While we were walking through the Sea Cliff (a fancy residential area), there weren't any bathrooms around. Angie found a port-o-pottie, opened the door and closed it right back up (ugh! there needs to be a better way to make port-o-potties). Luckily, a nice lady named Sue saw this from her home. She approached Angie and asked if she needed to use the bathroom, Angie said yes and Sue offered her home. I accompanied Angie to Sue's house (partly because I needed to use the bathroom and refuse to use a port-o-pottie, and partly because I wanted to "do my business" in a rich person's house - a desire Angie and I expressed in whispers). Of course, her house was beautiful. We walked up these stone steps and Angie noticed that they had model ships in their window.

Sue's husband finally answers the door and we enter a marble-covered vestibule where we had to wipe our feet... twice. As Angie described, the house looked like it came out of Architectural Digest - complete with fresh flowers, Persian rugs, regal furniture. I don't know what Angie's bathroom looked like, but the one I was in was attached to a bedroom. Again, everything was marble and antique. I tried to "finish" as fast as I could, but couldn't help but think, "I'm doing my business in the nicest bathroom I've ever been in."

When Angie came out of the bathroom, Sue said that she just remembered who the last person was that used the same bathroom Angie used. The bathroom was last used on Friday by the pope...

...the Armenian pope.

Apparently, Sue and her family had a gathering that Friday and the Armenian pope just happened to pop (and poop) on by. Sue said that since the pope used the bathroom, no one else used it. (That is, until Angie made her stop.) Sue then said that Angie and bean are now blessed.

As we were sharing the story with the group, we laughed because Angie is not only blessed... she now has pope germs on her butt:) (Angie, I think you should tell this to your local priest!)

9 B-days: A Celebration of Life, Love, & Community

Okay, so I'm celebrating the big 3-0 this year and am lucky enough to share a birthday bash with eight other people. Here are the details. Hope to see you there:)

-joanne


9 B-days: A Celebration of Life, Love, & Community
Host: Rex de Guia, Alex de Guia, and Herb Digs
Location: Zebulon; 83 Natoma Street (cross 2nd St.), San Francisco, CA View Map
When: Saturday, November 12, 9:00pm
Phone: (415) 975-5705
This is a celebration for 9 wonderful individuals born in the month of November and December.

Have any of these 9 people touched your lives? Let us honor and celebrate them!

Ronnie Bautista (12/7)
Alex de Guia (12/4)
Rex de Guia (12/4)
Herb Felina (11/12)
Ryan Leano (12/3)
Rod Magbual (11/1)
Jeff Ponferrada (11/19)
Joanne Rondilla (12/10)
Allyson Tintiangco-Cubales (11/26)

Whether you know any of them as family, friend, student, teacher, mentor, mentee, running partner, just met them in passing, or would like to get to know one of the celebrants, then you've gotta come to this mega-birthday celebration. Yes. . . it's time to CELEBRATE LIFE, LOVE, and COMMUNITY. Let's all come together and dance the night away.


Cover of sliding $5 and up will benefit victims of the Earthquake in South Asia.

Doors open at 9:00 pm.

21 and over, Lots of parking in adjacent lots

On the 1s and 2s - DJs Rx (special birthday debut set), Herb Digs, and more to be announced.

Please feel free to bring as many folks as you'd like. The more the merrier.

Scorpios, Sagittarians, and the world of friends unite in positivity, hope, and love!

not related to running

Okay, so I'm not just a runner. I'm a grad student too. After Hawai`i I had to go to our nation's capital for a conference and wanted to share some photos from that trip, so here it goes...



This was taken during my last night in DC. Mind you, this was very late at night after dinner and dancing, so I look a bit off. Okay. I look very off. Left to right are: me, Scott, Anesu, Edrik, Petra, Rudy and Genelle. Regardless, I had a blast. The people at the conference were so friendly and kind. It's nice to be in an academic space where people are supportive - not competitive and trying to size you up. It was refreshing and a great way to get back to my school life.



We tried to gather up all the Filipinos at the conference for a picture (because well, Filipinos like taking pictures together). Unfortunately, some folks were missing (Rudy, where were you?). So left to right we are: Ronaldo, Genelle, Steve, Pearlie, (UGH! Why am I blanking on her name?!), me and Rhacel. (Alex, I know what you're thinking and I'm thinking it too.) It was great being around good company. I can't wait for the conference next year.