Roomies

Some of my fun can be attributed to my roomies. Yes, Roomies--roommates!

I was not writing about them on my blog for respect to their privacy. Instead, I was criticized for not mentioning them on the blog. (Be careful what you wish for...)

Scott

Scott is a military man, who is also a great cook. He listens to every type of music, except disco. He also reads broadly. His love of weight training is quite something, but he is very stiff. (Stiffer than me.) He can also fix things. He used to give bath to and exercise his pet toad, Freddie. A few weeks ago, however, Freddie decided to run for unlimited freedom at the cost of losing free live cricket meals.

Miriama

Miriama is studying at the University. Quite a serious student, having studied through the New Zealand system. She can almost keep up with me when drinking. (Scott falls asleep.) A series of her family members have visited us here over the past summer. Very interesting people, all in different ways. ;) This winter, her daughter is going to visit for the first time, along with other family members who have been here before.

Play Time

We are not playing together all the time. Just sometimes, as we all have many different things to do. Sometimes, however, we (either planned or unplanned) get together at a local bar after work/school. Other times, we are drinking at home, and/or watching movies, or just chatting. Scott's routine of making a big "Farmers' Breakfast" on weekends is always a treat for the later-risers (me, Miriama, and sometimes my kids). It is fun to have some grown-ups around, with whom I can also talk about parenting.

Time Flies...

Whew! It is already November. I am still running deficit against my promise of posting monthly. Two books I co-edited came out last month, and I am very relieved. Thank you again to all contributors.
This time of the year in the United States is full of events, and time passes quickly toward the December 31st. The Halloween night brought so many unknown children (not all of them were even neighbors) to my house. Luckily my dinner time was not disturbed, as I covered my door chime with a note: "Give us some quiet time as we enjoy blood-dripping steak of childrens' legs." When I could not find one of sandals the following morning, I suspected a "trick" by some pissed-off children, but it was simply blown into the bush by wind and I found it. My kids enjoyed collecting candies from the neighbors. Soon, it will be Thanks Giving, and then Christmas. I still have too many "use-or-lose" leave days... I have to use them, preferrably on windy days, so that I can go windsurfing.
Fitness
I started a light exercise program to regain some muscle strength. I run around my APCSS office building and do several fitness routines en route. I was stunned a few weeks ago, when I could not do a single pull-up. Luckily, in just three weeks, I now can do four or five each for two sets at least. (I used to be able to do twenty in straight.) A long way to go, but a steady progress makes me feel good.
Hawaii
The tourist number for October, compared to last year, was down by 25%, according to the local news. It is a shocker for the local economy, indeed, as recessions normally hit the islands with some delay. The early arrival of recession will likely mean a longer and deeper recession, than its early departure. Just a casual observation on the street shows me an increased number of homeless people since about a year ago. Nonehteless, it is still Hawaii--the home of aloha spirit. Despair and meanness cannot dominate this place.
Good Night!