Keeping it flowing

Been a busy 2010 so far . I know we are coming to the end of a year that has been pretty good to me and my family. Let's see , one job came to a end and another one began. The kids are growing up before my eyes. My brothers and sisters have some changes in their lives as well. I have said it over and over again that job change is good. I have always had good luck when it comes to changing jobs or losing a job. I usually bounce back right away or find a new job while my current job is coming to an end.

My previous company that I worked for got bought out in the middle of September and I started my new job with one of the best companies in the world. I feel very lucky and blessed that God is always watching out for me and my family. I have repeatedly asked why God has a special interest in my well being . I posed this question to my parents and to a family friend . I was told not to question God's love for each one of us so I have never brought that question up anymore. I guess it was more curiosity more than anything else. I should know the answer.

I need to get back to blogging . With my new job it has been tough. I work five days a week and weekends off. The only bad thing about starting a new job is that there is no vacation time. I could use a good two weeks off right now! Just wanted to touch base and let you know what I have been up to. Look for new blog posts through the end of this year and into next year.

Back to school 2010

It's that time of year !

Wishing it was fall weather

I wish the weather was cooler I am tired of the Texas heat!!!!





I wish I was at Lost Maples State Park. Can we fast forward a couple of months?


I'll keep wishing for cooler weather.

Faith

There has been so much going on at work that I have relied heavily on prayer and my faith. My company was sold and I was not going to be moving on with the parent company. Only a handful of us were selected and I was forced to find another job. I believe having a strong support system and having a strong faith in God has helped me immensely. I know that if I put my trust in God and keep a strong dialogue with him he will provide for me and my family.

Faith means different things to so many people. Here are some notable quotes on faith:

Take the first step in faith.
You don't have to see the whole staircase,
just take the first step.
- Martin Luther King Jr

The strengthening of faith comes through
staying with it in the hour of trial.
- Catherine Marshall

For the believer there is no question,
for the nonbeliever there is no answer.
-Anonymous

The light of God surrounds me,
The love of God enfolds me,
The power of God protects me,
The presence of God watches over me.
-Prayer card

Faith never knows where it is being led,
but it loves and knows the one who is leading.
-Oswald Chambers




I will always keep the faith. Will you?

One chapter closes and a new one begins

I recently received the news that my job was going to end in September. I have been with this company eight years this past May. I have never really been without a job in the past 14 years, I have always been employed. I think I have a pretty good work ethic. I work hard, I work weekends when necessary, I work overtime when it calls for that. I travel .

When I got the news last week that I was not going to be offered a job with the new company I ran through all of the emotions. We are summoned to the conference room where the news was received. As I glanced around the conference room I see the look of battered troops. I was included. We knew two years ago that this day would come. Our company was always on the selling block . Maybe we forgot about it. Maybe we thought that a sale was impossible during these tough economic times. I was feeling all of these emotions, fear, relief, self -worth and sadness. I know the people in the room were feeling the same range of emotions too. I could see it.

According to About.com some of the things you can do before a layoff hits:

1. Prepare for a layoff by having your resume ready.
2. Prepare for a layoff by keeping your network alive.
3. Prepare for a layoff by sharpening your skills.
4. Prepare for a layoff by taking time for yourself.
5. Prepare for a layoff by thinking about a career change.

I am prepared with my resume. It is polished and ready. I think there is always a silver lining behind everything. Being laid off in a few weeks will allow me to spend some valuable time with my family, specifically my wife and kids. I worked a lot of weekends and I missed several events and family functions. I struggled finding the perfect work-life balance if there is such a thing anymore. I worked hard for my family. I did it for them. I look forward to watching my kindergartner take her first steps into public education. I will be there for that. I will also be there to pick her up after school and asking how her first day was. I will also be able to meet her for lunch on her first day of school.

I will keep you posted on my journey.

Summer doldrums

Summer has been good for the kids but a bit unpredictable for me. It's also been the summer of uncertainty for me with the job market. Companies get bought and sold. My company is not immune to this. My kids have been pretty oblivious to the surrounding job market. I don't really expect them to know what's going on with the job market because they are kids.

I think parents should not get kids involved with their problems especially the job market. I know when I was a kid my dad went through a few job changes but I always knew things were going to be fine and I was always confident when it came to my dad and his abilities.I know my girls are confident with whatever endeavor I choose. Kids have the most important job of all, just being kids and having fun.

I know things will be looking up. They always have a way of turning around. One door closes another one opens . I will keep you posted .

God answers

You say : It is impossible.
God says : All things are possible .

You say: I'm too tired.
God says:  I will give you rest .

You say : Nobody really loves me.
God says:  I love you.

You say: I can't figure things out.
God says: I will direct your steps

You say: I can't do it.
God says: You can do all things.

You say: I'm not able.
God says: I am able .

You say: I am not worth it.
God says: It will be worth it.

You says: I can't forgive myself.
God says: I forgive you.

You say: I can't manage.
God says : I will supply all your needs.

You say: I'm afraid.
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear.

You say: I'm always worried and frustrated .
God says: Cast all of your cares on me.

You say ; I don't have enough faith .
God says: I've given everyone a measure of faith .

You say: I'm not smart enough.
God says: I give you wisdom.

You say: I feel all alone.
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you.             


*** Author unknown***

You cause others to stumble when

1. You allow negativity to grow .

2. You compromise your integrity .

3. You break your promises.

4. You speak before thinking.

5. You act out of greed or selfishness.

6. You refuse to forgive.

7. You twist the truth.

8. You justify your behavior.

9. You hurt others.

10.You leave God out of your decisions.


Dr Steve Stephens
Author and Seminar Speaker

Changes

Changes are on the way. In life and in the business world changes are a daily occurence. There are a couple of cliche's that come to mind when I think of changes.

1. Change is good.
2. One door closes another one
opens.

Let's take the first one.

Change is good. In my experience this has always been a good thing. I had a previous job that ended many years ago and that led to another job that had a higher salary.

Let's take the second one.

One door closes another one opens. This is true. It's obvious when one door closes opportunities should open up. We have the power to create these opportunities. Sometimes we are lucky enough to have opportunites come looking for us.

What I always tell myself is that nothing is forever. All good things come to an end at some point.

Here's to changes past, present and future.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

On being a father

Here is a little list that my dad put together on what constitutes fatherhood. It is all so true. Sometimes I find myself searching for my own list or rewriting the list that I have. Fatherhood is not easy as you all know. I am still learning things everyday from my daughters. I think they are redefining what fatherhood should be for me. What I tell everyone is that God put me on earth for my daughters just like God put my parents on earth for me and my brothers and sisters. That is my only mission just to raise my daughters into fine women . Here is the list.


A father must be able to carry the world on his shoulders.

Must be able to solve problems.

Serve as a confidant on the spur of the moment.

Act as a consultant when called upon for advice.

Serve as financial planner.

Lends assistance when needed.

Inject common sense into discussions that do not make sense.

Attempt to serve as corporate CEO for the family.

Directs the family in faith and hope..

Serves as business advisor.

When the chips are down, father knows best.

Believes in giving away what he has in order for his children to be happy.

Sacrifices are part of the norm.

Rides an emotional roller coaster on a daily basis..

Loves his family even though it might not seem like it.

A father expects nothing in return and is a father unconditionally.

Whet else can a father do? Just call him, and you’ll find out that fathers can do any thing.

A letter to my daughters about BP Petroleum

Dear daughters,

As you can see from the pictures above BP Petroleum has created a ecological disaster. I'm not sure the reasons behind the explosion. There has been rumors of safety shortcuts, I really don't know. I do know that good men were lost and marine animals are suffering. There are pictures of birds and crabs covered in oil. There are dead dolphins coming to shore.

Drilling companies are always in search of oil for a profit. BP Petroleum was in the Gulf of Mexico for that same reason. Men make mistakes for several reasons. This is a big mistake that can be attributed to man. What are we going to do about it? BP Petroleum is taking the lead and trying to correct the situation along with the U.S government. I just know that Americans in this area are suffering because their livelihood has been taken away. It will be years before it is cleaned up. There are even reports that the oil is drifting to Florida and is there now. I just hope that we can visit there when everything is clean. I would love for you to run your little feet on the nice beaches in the Gulf Coast one day.

Love your Dad

Letting my little ones experience Spectrum health club

Sundays are usually set aside for me to spend quality time with my daughters.My wife usually works on Sundays which is fine because I usually have to go into work on Saturdays. We usually wake up and go to church and then off to eat lunch with my parents. Today I had the day planned out . I wanted to take them to the gym with me. I did not know that the kids club at Spectrum  was going to be closed so I was forced to take care of them while I worked out.

I had planned on taking my sixth grader to run with me while my two younger daughters played in the kids club. I asked the guy at the front desk if the kids could play on the Internet there where I could watch them and run at the same time. I was able to squeeze in a 5k run before I was forced to cut my run short and tend to my little ones who were roaming throughout Spectrum health club.

I headed over to the weights while my sixth grader finished her run on the treadmill. Is this such a bad thing letting my little ones roam the Spectrum health club ? They were not getting any dirty looks from any other members. After all they were dressed kind of cute and they look like twins. I figure that rather than have the kids sitting at home, they can see people being active by running and working out on the weights. I want to plant the seed early with all of my daughters that exercise and staying active is important in life.

According to kids health.org there are many benefits of exercise. Everyone can benefit from regular exercise. Kids who are active will:

•have stronger muscles and bones

•have a leaner body because exercise helps control body fat

•be less likely to become overweight

•decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes

•possibly lower blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels

•have a better outlook on life

Besides enjoying the health benefits of regular exercise, kids who are physically fit sleep better and are better able to handle physical and emotional challenges — from running to catch a bus to studying for a test.

If you can keep the kids near you while you work out. I encourage the experience for kids. Lets get all the kids active and fit as early as possible.

A picture is worth a thousand words

A little Easter fun!  I love this picture . Two of my daughters getting a little carried away.

So proud

You know I have not been to this spot in a long time. Just thinking how I am missing downtown San Antonio. I will make back here soon. So proud of the riverwalk.

Family challenges

“Life's challenges are not supposed to paralyze you, they're supposed to help you discover who you are.” -Bernice Johnson Reagon

Life is full of challenges . In today's society there are several challenges that a family can face. Two of the main challenges facing families are financial and medical. Sometimes financial situations can paralyze a family such as job loss causing bills to fall behind. Job loss can also have an effect on medical conditions because if there is no job there is no medical insurance.

These challenges are supposed to help discover who you are. If you have the drive and confidence you can find a job right away. Once you land the job you automatically can address the medical situations with insurance.

I will be prepared if I ever fall into unemployment. If I know that day is coming I will have my resume armed and ready to fire. I think a lot of families are not prepared and fall into the unemployment ranks a little longer than expected.

Once unemployment happens stay calm , cool and collected. Even take a few days to enjoy your family. Just remember that your family is counting on you.

Using proper gym etiquette

I have been working out since early January. As mentioned in one of my Facebook posts I had an encounter at the gym. I started excising on my doctor's advice in order to balance out my cholesterol. I had just jumped on the treadmill when I get tapped on the shoulder by a girl, "Me and my girlfriend would like to use that treadmill so we can run together." There was another treadmill available right next to the treadmill I was using, so they would have been able to run together. I gladly obliged since I was on the treadmill less than a minute. I figured it was the adult thing to do, although some of my friends and colleagues gave me some mixed reviews on my actions.

According to Ask men .com they have a list on "How to master gym etiquette."

Handling equipment

The main reason we go to the gym is to use the sophisticated gear. While exercises can be performed at home, it's often easier to rely on machines that were specifically designed for the sole purpose of making us look better. Are you using all the equipment adequately?

Return the weights
Whenever you use dumbbells or plates, be considerate enough to put them back where they belong when you're done. The other gym members are here to train, not to participate in a scavenger hunt.

Don't hog machines
A gym being a community of sorts, sharing is mandatory. Do your sets the way you have them planned, training efficiently. Rest, repeat, and move on. Should you be doing supersets, notify the others and let them use the machine while you're busy elsewhere.

Wipe the machines
Can you imagine walking to a machine and finding it covered with the previous guy's sweat? You want to avoid being that guy. If you happen to drip all over a piece of equipment, wipe it down using the disinfectant provided by the gym. Also, use a towel to separate yourself from the machine while you make use of it.

Limit yourself
Working out the cardiovascular system, people are expected to spend 20 to 30 minutes on a machine. Try not exceeding that time limit and let other users benefit from the equipment. If no one is waiting for your spot, feel free to keep going. Whenever applicable, put your name on a reservation list.

Don't drop the weights
While a gym is not a church, do try to respect the peace and quiet of your fellow members. Don't drop weights from a high elevation for no reason. You certainly don't want the elderly gentlemen on the treadmill to slip and fall because he thinks Armageddon is here.

Proper behavior


Once you know how to handle the equipment, you need to hone your social skills. There are things you must and must not do to be regarded as a member the others won't try to dodge.

Don't pressure users
One thing you don't want to do is constantly ask people if they've finished using a machine when they're obviously still exercising on it. Wait for them to stop before asking. Don't tap your foot impatiently while waiting either.

Spot those who need it
You may be deemed annoying if you start going around asking everyone if they need a spot, monopolizing their time. If you see someone who is in dire need of a spot, risking injury without one, only then should you offer your services. Furthermore, when you do spot someone, make sure you're not the one doing all the lifting and that you can handle the weight. The latter is especially important since, if you're not strong enough, your spot will be useless and dangerous for the weightlifter.

Don't offer your advice to others
You might have a Ph.D. in physical training from Harvard with specialized experience with the national Olympic team, but no one cares. The advice you give should be limited to when you notice someone who's going to hurt himself. Keep in mind that you may not be the most knowledgeable person in the room. If you feel compelled to critique someone's training method, do so in a constructive manner, being polite and acknowledging what they're doing right first.

Talk sparingly
A gym isn't a social club; you're not there to shoot the breeze with its members. Conversations should be kept brief and limited to resting periods in between sets. These short discussions must be held out of the way so people can train without interruption. In addition, don't initiate conversations with people wearing headphones; they obviously don't feel chatty. Finally, while you're taking a break, don't sit on a machine -- others may want to use it.

Don't hit on every babe
It's true that a gym is one of the best pick up spots, but that doesn't give you a hunting license. Don't go around asking every woman out. They became members to get fit, not to be hit on by every dude in the room. In the same vein, try to avoid staring at those beautiful women in skimpy clothing. They know they're hot and they don't need your ogling them to figure it out. If one of them happens to catch you staring, smiling, look away, and move on.

Common courtesy


No cell phones
As with all public places, unless you're waiting for an important call, it's recommended that you turn off your mobile phone at the gym. As well, bringing your phone into the locker room and using it will make other guys feel uncomfortable; especially considering the latest models have integrated cameras and, well, nobody wants their butt being the main attraction on a sketchy website.

Pick up after yourself
Leave your training space as clean as the way you found it. Don't leave any food wrappers, water bottles, towels, or any other items behind. Keep your locker clean, orderly, and don't leave anything lying around for the next guy. Your membership fee is for use of the apparatus; it's not a maid service.

Dress appropriately
Don't wear torn clothing, but don't wear a tuxedo either. Go for a T-shirt instead of a tank top as to circumvent sweat overtly running onto the machine. Stay away from jeans; shorts or track pants are a much better choice.

Don't grunt loudly
Unless you have tiger genes, try to minimize your yelling while exercising. Of course, it's natural to emit little noises when doing strenuous lifts, but remember that the others around you are concentrating on their own work out and don't need to hear "the loud guy" screaming for attention.

Smell good
Exercising makes you sweat and perspiration causes body odor. Can you see in your mind's eye how badly it would stink if no one at the gym did something about it? Arm yourself with an effective deodorant and use it adequately. However, don't douse yourself with cologne; overcompensation can be just as unpleasant for fellow members.

Be considerate of the water fountain
A water fountain's purpose is to drink, not spit or throw away your gum. Moreover, if there's a huge lineup at the water fountain, don't be disrespectful of others by filling your huge water bottle.

No foul language
As with any other social venue, be respectful of your surroundings and of the fact that people of all ages might be present on the premises. Don't use foul language or insult people who are less proficient in their training.

Don't walk in front of mirrors
Well, you can walk in front of mirrors as long as you don't pass in front of someone who is using it to get their stance right. By the same token, if you're looking at yourself in a mirror from across the room, don't get mad if someone passes in front of you. If you must use a mirror, it's better to stand close to it so that your actions are unambiguous to the rest of the crowd.

Texas blogger Rennywriter answers your questions

I thought it would be fun to answer some questions for my audience. I have always been fascinated with celebrity questions you find in back of magazines. Since I have been in a goofy mood all week, This post is all about fun!!!!

Name: Rene R Arguello
Company: Rennywriter  Blog URL http : //http://www.rennywriter.blogspot.com/

Why did you start blogging? I started blogging as a way to relieve stress after the busy work day. I also blog because I discovered my love for writing while in college. I usually have time to write at night when my wife is putting the kids to sleep. That hour is my time to blog. I also love the creative process of writing a post from when the idea first pops in my head and then is formed on my blog.

What is the main goal of your blog? I am not sure if I have a niche. If I do have a niche it would be in regards to the nuclear family. It would be about raising my daughters the best way I know how. I come from a large family with a traditional family and religious background. I am trying to pass these traditions and values to my daughters.I also love writing about business and tech news. So I would have to say the niche of my blog is a little of everything.

How has your life changed growing up in a household of women? Well... I come from a family of six brothers and three sisters . Growing up my brothers dominated our household. It was like we were a basketball team and our rooms were actually locker rooms. Clothes scattered everywhere, food left in the room. You name the dirty piece of clothing or the most common candy wrapper and you could find it in our room. My daughters are no different! As a man in a female dominated household I just have to watch what I wear. My wife and daughters also know my habits and also know when I need some alone time too.

Is there anything you won't eat? No I actually love food . I will try everything .

Could you please tell me what type of tattoos you have and their meanings? I have no tattoos at this time but I would like to get one of my daughters  and put it over my heart. I have a picture of them that would be the perfect tattoo. Including my wife, my daughters are the most important people to me on the planet. I would be proud to wear them over my heart. I would love for Kat Von D  of LA Ink  to do it for me (wishful thinking!)

What is your idea of fun or relaxation on your time off ? My wife works at a state park here in Texas  so I find myself going on hikes with my daughters. I also like to blog for relaxation. I also started running and exercising in January. I find exercising very soothing and rewarding. Also hanging out with mom and dad along with my brothers and sisters.

You turned 46 a few weeks ago. How are you dealing with it? I am doing great. No big deal. I feel like I am in my early 30's . I guess my daughters keep me young. I find myself playing and kidding around with them a lot . They love it.

Do you have a secret nickname? As a kid playing baseball my coach would call me Renny. My mom called me Birdie. I have also been called other names that I wont mention here ! (just kidding)

Are you and your wife planning to have more kids? No. We are done.

What movie scares you? The fourth kind . That is some scary stuff right there! Any movie having to do with little green (gray) men scares the crap out of me.

5 business lessons learned from the TV show "Undercover Boss"

According to Inc magazine, Undercover Boss  was one of this year’s reality show standouts, beloved by viewers for the dose of schadenfreude they’d get by seeing executives fail at attempting the basics that make their companies tick. Undercover Boss took CEOs (such as 7-Eleven's Joe DePinto, above) out of their corner offices and planted them as entry-level grunts in their own business. What ensued needn’t just be couch-potato fuel, though: We’ve compiled some notes so you can avoid these CEOs’ mistakes.

• Do sweat the small stuff

Joe DePinto, a West Point graduate who’s now the CEO of 7-Eleven, knows how to run a $13 billion company. But brewing coffee without overflowing the dispenser? Not so much. In investigating exactly how the 7-Eleven in Shirley, New York, manages to sell 2,500 cups of coffee a day, DePinto managed to mix up flavor batches and make a mess. But he took a lesson from middle-aged coffee-maker Dolores, whose precise brewing combined with impeccable customer service (she seemed to know the name of every person who entered the door) kept caffeine fiends coming back day after day.


Lesson: Pay attention to detail – and to your regular customers – and you will be rewarded with repeat business.

• Even small jobs require confidence

It seems obvious: a CEO should intimately know – and ostensibly enjoy – the product or service they sell. On the episode about Churchill Downs, the racing park that’s part of the largest horse-racing business in the world, that wasn’t quite so for COO Bill Carstanjen. When he went out dressed as a new hire to work with a horse trainer, it was readily apparent he was afraid of feeding the horses. And though he learned how to play the "Call to Post" on the bugle, he discovered he was terrified of playing in front of a crowd.


Lesson: Inspiring confidence takes confidence especially in a highly-competitive environment.

• Keep your customer service skills sharp

Rick Arquilla, president and COO of Roto-Rooter, got his hands dirty in an episode of Undercover Boss. After cleaning some drains like a pro, he was tasked with working the phones at a dispatch call center. He struggled, in part because the call system is color-coded and Arquilla is colorblind. That's no fault of his, but his phone skills also leave a lot to be desired – he sounded pushy and impatient when he talked to a customer.


Lesson: Your interactions with customers over the phone are deceptively difficult to get right, and require patience and foolproof systems.

• Enforce high standards

Coby Brooks was not ready to meet Jimbo. He was the manager of a Hooters restaurant to which CEO Brooks was assigned, and he liked to "inspect" female employees in a leering fashion. Brooks, who spoke with pride about his company’s donations to breast cancer research, was not amused. "The things I saw today," he said on the show, "were inappropriate. They were wrong and I don’t want any part of it."


Lesson: Even if your company image thrives on being a bit racy, employees must abide by clear standards set by human resources regarding harassment.

• Find our what goals mean in human terms

When Chris McCann, president of 1-800-Flowers and the younger brother of CEO Jim McCann, went undercover in his own company, it was with the aim of testing how well he understood the business. He suspected that the company needed to do better at connecting with its workers. And he was correct. For instance, when he struggled to keep up with his task at the chocolate bonbon conveyer belt, he struggled and lagged behind. An employee remained calm, telling him that the hefty goals are set by men who never visit the factory.


Lesson: Seek input from – and get to know – your front-line workers.

Thank you Inc Magazine .
 
 

The mystery solved (hopefully?)

I was asked to write a letter to my oldest daughter Brianna a couple of weeks ago. My ex wanted me to write to her in preparation for a retreat she attended. She is in middle school and even though I eventually would split from Valerie (her mom) I still saw Brianna every other weekend. I would go on to marry a girl with a name that had the same letter in the alphabet "V" ( Something about me and women whose name start with the letter V!) Veronica and I have three daughters but that is a story in itself. I have to refer you to some of my early blog posts!

I avoided writing about this topic for a while. I have always wanted to write about my feelings about my oldest daughter. I know the circumstances of my breakup with Valerie (her mom) were a little out of the ordinary. This "bad breakup" kept my defenses up for a long time. It was not only until recently that I was able to let my guard down on this topic and express my true feelings for Brianna in my letter. In my letter to Brianna I expressed how much of a beautiful girl she is and how much she looks like me. I also told her how my work schedule interfered with me getting to spend more time with her.  I also told her that I loved her very much and that I hoped that my schedule in the future would allow us to spend more time together.

At the retreat the priest and Brianna read my letter together. When Brianna came home from the retreat she told my ex that I am still a bit of a mystery to her. As mentioned earlier I have spent time with Brianna ever since she was a baby. She comes over on weekends and spends Saturdays and Sundays with us. I work almost every Saturday so it is hard for me to spend a lot of time with her. On Sundays when I am home my two little daughters take up a majority of my time and demand attention. But Brianna I promise that I will be spending more one on one time with you and hopefully together we can unlock the mystery of your daddy as soon as possible..

NBA Playoffs : Go Spurs Go !

It's playoff time. Good luck to the silver and black !

Balancing Twitter and Facebook with family life

I read an article today about Twittering  and Facebooking  and the effects it is having on family life. I know that after a hard day at work parents sit at their home computer or on their phone and just Twitter and Facebook away. It is easy to get caught up and Twitter  about a interesting article or chat on Facebook  with a friend or coworker.

I know a lot of parents are guilty of  spending too much time on social media. After a stressful day at work I sometimes find myself wanting to get on Facebook  or Twitter  and see what is going on with the people I follow or I have friended. How does this affect children who long for their parent's affection? How many hours have been lost on Facebook or Twitter when these hours can be spent with their children? To find out if you are addicted to Social Media ask yourself these questions.

1. Do you spend more time on Social Media than your family?
2. Do you have more friends on Facebook or Twitter than in real life?
3. Do you hear Direct Message pings when you lay down to bed or use the blow dryer and run to your computer to answer?
4. Do you put an "@" symbol in front of someone's name when directing a message to them in emails?
5. You panic when your favorite Social Media site goes down.
6. You give other guys/girls your social network URL instead of your phone #.
7. You lie about the amount of time you spend on Social Media.
8. Have you ever pondered starting a social network for people that have a problematic addiction to   social networking?
9. Do you get excited when you have more friends on a social network than you did last week despite the fact that you'll probably never talk to them?
10. You check your social network email first thing in the morning, at lunch, and before bedtime without fail?
11. Upon meeting people in a real-life social situation you ask them if they are on your favorite social network.
12. You go to Digg , Reddit,  Yahoo ! Buzz or another social news site for your news as opposed to CNN , WSJ , NYT or other traditional news sites.
13. You belong to more Social Media sites than extracurricular organizations.

I usually "Tweet" or "Facebook" after the kids are asleep. I have some alone time for about an hour when my wife is putting the kids to sleep. That is the only time I get into social media. I might also do a blog post during this alone time. Hopefully parents across the U.S will put away the phone or log off the home computer and give your kids the attention they deserve.

How do you balance social media and family time?

Fiesta San Antonio!

Fiesta week in San Antonio is upon us. It is that time again, San Antonio's celebration occurs every April. There are so many events planned this year and I promise to provide a schedule for some of the favorite events. But first, my thoughts on Fiesta San Antonio . I have been attending Fiesta week ever since I was a boy. I have many great memories of the Battle of Flowers parade, the Fiesta Flambeau parade,St. Mary's University Oyster bake and the King William Fair. I will always remember the sounds, the sights, the smells of Fiesta. There are crowds galore. There is plenty of pushing, spilling and spending. (I would wear old clothes and tennis shoes for sure!) And the other thing, Fiesta week always falls on my birthday!

Fiesta Favorites

A Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA)
Battle of Flowers Parade
Fiesta Carnival
Fiesta Flambeau Parade
Fiesta Oyster Bake
Fiesta Fantasias at Market Square
Texas Cavaliers River Parade

A Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA)

April 20, 5:30pm-10:30pm
April 21, 5:30pm-10:30pm
April 22, 5:30pm-10:30pm
April 23, 5:30pm-10:30pm
La Villita

Battle of Flowers Parade
April 23, 12:45pm-4:00pm
Parade Route

Fiesta Carnival
April 14, 5:00pm-11:00pm
April 15, 6:00pm-10:00pm
April 16, 6:00pm-12:00am
April 17, 11:00am-12:00am
April 18, 12:00pm-11:00pm
April 19, 6:00pm-11:00pm
April 19, 6:00pm-11:00pm
April 20, 6:00pm-11:00pm
April 21, 5:00pm-11:00pm
April 22, 5:00pm-11:00pm
April 23, 12:00pm-12:00am
April 24, 11:00am-12:00am
April 25, 12:00pm-11:00pm
Alamodome Parking Lot C
100 Montana

Fiesta Flambeau Parade
April 24, 7:45pm-11:00pm
Parade Route

Fiesta Oyster Bake
April 16, 5:00pm-11:00pm
April 17, 11:00am-11:00pm
St. Mary's University Campus
One Camino Santa Maria

Fiestas Fantasias at Market Square
April 16, 10:00am-12:00am
April 17, 10:00am-12:00am
April 18, 10:00am-12:00am
April 19, 10:00am-12:00am
April 20, 10:00am-12:00am
April 21, 10:00am-12:00am
April 22, 10:00am-12:00am
April 23, 10:00am-12:00am
April 24, 10:00am-12:00am
April 25, 10:00am-12:00am
Market Square 514 West Commerce St

Texas Cavaliers River Parade
April 19, 7:30pm-9:30pm
San Antonio River Walk

Be Safe!!!!

Work life balance

I have been wondering if there is such a thing as a work life balance. I know in today's world it is very tough to have such a balance. A lot of companies talk about how their companies strive for the perfect work life balance for it's employees and actually are sincere about it. In the end a lot of employees are still  trying to chase the perfect work life scenario. According to the former head of General Electric Jack Welch   in a Wall Street Journal  article from July 2009, ""There's no such thing as work-life balance," Mr. Welch told the Society for Human Resource Management's  annual conference in New Orleans  on June 28. "There are work-life choices, and you make them, and they have consequences." He also went on to say " you could be passed over for promotions if you are not there in the clutch."

I can justify working long hours and Saturday. The only way I can justify this is that I am doing it for my family. When I look around at the things I have, none of this would be possible without a good paying job which takes a lot of commitment and dedication. I know things around me are materialistic and that is not what matters to me. A healthy family is all that matters to me.

According to Web MD  there are 5 tips for a better work life balance :

1. Figure out what really matters in your life -The important point here is to figure out what you want your priorities to be, not what you think they should be.


2. Drop unnecessary activities -By making a concrete list of what really matters to you, you may discover you're devoting too much time to activities that aren't a priority, and you can adjust your schedule accordingly.
 
3. Protect your private time -You would probably think twice before skipping out on work, a parent-teacher conference, or a doctor's appointment. Your private time deserves the same respect.
 
4. Accept help to balance your life-Allow yourself to rely on your partner, family members, or friends -- anyone who can watch the kids or run an errand while you focus on other top priorities.
 
5. Plan fun and relaxation- Fun and relaxation are an essential part of living a well-balanced life
 


 
Do you have a good work life balance?

Glee gone wild!!!!!

Check out the April cover of Rolling Stone Magazine. Glee is back . New episodes return April 13th.
There are a lot of questions left unanswered from last season. It is a show that my family can sit down and watch (and sing to). I promised my daughters I would do a post on my blog about Glee. Some questions.....

1. Will and Sue. Can they co-exist?
2. Puck and Finn. Can they be best friends again?
3. Can New Directions defeat Vocal Adrenaline?
4. What about Quinn and her pregnancy. Has she decided to keep the baby?
5. What about the romance between Rachel and Finn?
6. What about Will and his wife separating?

There is supposed to be some great music this season and other surprises. I hear Vocal Adrenaline has beefed itself up too. Watch out New Directions!!!!! Anyway, here is the cover. Enjoy.

Losing my carpool buddy to kindergarten.

As kinder-round up approaches this April I am a bit saddened by the loss of my constant morning companion and carpool buddy Sofie. Let me clarify. I am losing her to the public school system. She has been with me for the past five years. She has had to be flexible with the surrounding economic crisis of the past couple of years. She was enrolled at the school across the highway from my old office. I had to withdraw her from that school when my job relocated. I hated to withdraw her because it was such a good school.

The new office that I relocated to has a preschool associated with the company. Sofie adjusted to this new preschool with ease and made plenty of new friends. She has been there close to two years. As this school year closes I am saddened that I will not have a little one to ride with me each morning. I will not have a little one to ask me a lot of questions every morning like:

• Will I get bigger?
• What are those cows doing?
• Can we stop by McDonald's for a drink?
• When will I go to the big school?
• The kids in my class are mean to me. Why?
• I'm scared of going to the big school. Can I stay where I am at?

I will miss my carpool buddy. I know I will have her spirit with me every morning in the car with me. In the mean time. I still have a couple of months before we part ways and she goes on to higher learning . I know she will grow into the "big girl" that I know she can be. She will probably be one of the oldest kids in kindergarten since she missed the cut off last year by a couple of weeks. She will do great in school. I know it. As my eyes start to swell and a couple of tears start to flow I just look forward to seeing her and the rest of my daughters after work. I look forward to meeting her and Mia for lunch on my days off. I look forward to helping Sofie with her 'big school " homework. I look forward to going with her on her first field trip and holding her hand. Below are her favorite flowers. We have been seeing lots of these on our commute to work.

The life and times of a barrio dog- forward (sneek peek)

Here is the forward to the book I am helping my dad write tentatively titled "The life and times of a barrio dog." This is a rough draft. Hopefully I can give you all more excerpts of his book in the future.


“Life is without meaning. You bring the meaning to it. The meaning of life is whatever you ascribe it to be. Being alive is the meaning.” Joseph Campbell


My life at this point seems pretty ordinary. I’m not sure if my life has even started yet. My life is a series of calculations. Every situation I enter is calculated ahead of time to give me the desired outcome. I guess you can say I am cheating myself of life. I know life is very unpredictable and can be very overwhelming. I know there are setbacks and victories. I have had my share of both. Half of my life is gone already and I know there is a lot out there for me to experience. By my age my dad had already lived a full and exciting life.

My dad grew up in the roughest part of San Antonio which is in the deep westside of the city. There is nothing luxurious about living in the westside of San Antonio in the 1950's. It was a constant struggle back then. It was a struggle to pay the bills and put food on the table with whatever means necessary. You did what you had to in order to stay alive. There was no fluffy outdoor malls back then. I have grown up in the safe suburbs of far Northwest San Antonio. My dad held several minimum wage jobs with just a GED education supporting a family of nine. It was not until later that he had time to continue his college studies. He later became self employed and then moved on to the corporate world. I have worked a few minimum wage jobs while in college obtaining my degree and have really worked in one industry for the past fifteen years. I have been supporting a family of four daughters which is a completely different story itself. My dad has told my that I have gone through similar struggles that he has gone through. I don’t really believe that. My struggles are minuscule compared to him.

My struggles are sometimes financial but that is usually just panicking and thinking worst case scenario on my part. That is about as bad as it gets for me. I had no "turf wars'' to deal with or guns pointed in my face or knife scars to show anyone. He struggled learning to speak English in school. He struggled to help his mom and dad with money whenever he could. He struggled to keep out of the “turf wars” growing up in San Antonio with little success. He has told me that sometimes the “turf wars” go looking for you. He struggled with personal demons when he had to go rescue his dad from a bar fight while getting a gun pointed in his face. He struggled with himself not to go back to that bar with his buddies and shoot the place up. He knew that was not the right thing to do. That is not what his parents taught him.

My dad has lived more than I will ever live. He has lived that life so all of my brothers and sisters can have a safe, predictable life. His parents passed down the hard work ethic to him so he can pass that work ethic down to us. I hope to pass my work ethic down to my wonderful daughters. In a way I am helping my dad with this book for my daughters and my brothers and sisters so they can cherish this book for eternity. Hopefully my daughters will read this book when they get older and understand the life that my dad had to live in order to give me my values and pass those values and work ethic down to them.


Rene

Mashable

One of my favorite websites is Mashable. Anything you want to know about Social Media, this is your guide. It has everything covered:

Mobile

Web Video

Entertainment

Business

Tech

Apple

Trending topics

Lists

How to

Twitter Guidebook

Facebook Guidebook

Check it out !  http://www.mashable.com/

Thanks Blogger!

Thank you Blogger for adding these new templates. The new templates look great. I will be experimenting with different templates in the future so I hope all of my readers don't mind.

Another birthday approaches !

I wish for a lot of things. Good health, winning the lotto and also the health and safety of my kids and wife. One thing I wish I could stop would be my birthdays. Yup, I have another one approaching so fast (April 23rd to be exact.) Someone in their forties has just enough life experiences to be considered wise and yet there is still a bit of learning to do.

So the countdown begins.

Who was President of the U.S when I was born?





What else happened I was born?




So I am dating myself. Oh well..What's another birthday.

Women's Health Foundation girls night out

On April 1st The Women’s Health Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to raising awareness and support for issues of women’s pelvic and sexual health, will be hosting an educational girls night out event at the Fort Sam Houston Golf Club in San Antonio. The evening will bring local women together to toast champagne, indulge in chocolate from local bakeries, take part in flirty dance instructionals and learn how to better themselves from the inside out.

The event will feature presentations from local women’s health experts who will offer expert advice on everything from springing into lasting health and relationships this season, to tips for optimal women’s health at every age. Dr. Yashika Dooley, a local Air Force Officer and Urogynecologist will also speak about her personal journey with women’s health. The Foundation’s founder, Missy Lavender, will do the same. Details Thursday, April 1st from 6 - 9 pm Fort Sam Houston Golf Club 2109 Harry Wurzbach. San Antonio, TX Tickets are $15

Date(s): 04/01/2010 - 04/01/2010
Time: 6 p.m.-9 p.m.


Fort Sam Houston
1212 Stanley Rd., Bldg. 124
Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234
Phone: 210/207-3078

Parents having fun with texting

My 70 ish year old parents have discovered the art of texting. My parents are in Las Vegas today and I received several texts from them. The texts are all funny. It is a good way for them to keep us kids up to date on their wins and losses in Las Vegas.

My parents have discovered how to send the same text to multiple parties. I thought they were sending the texts to only me. But after calling my mom in Las Vegas to see if I was special I discovered that they are using the above mentioned technique to send all of my brothers and sisters the same text messages. It is not as personal as them calling us but it is still communication. I will now attempt to describe a couple of text messages that I received today.

1. Picture mail with audio of certain hotels.

2. A picture mail of the winning slot machine my dad was using.

3. A picture of them heading to the Donny and Marie concert.

4. A text message from my mom stating something about my dad's pants falling down from all of the walking they are doing in Las Vegas.(I had to put this text in PG-13)

Overall I am happy that they are able to communicate with us and have fun with technology that was not even available when they were growing up.I still remember playing with my dad's brick cell phone. I wonder what text messages I will get from them tomorrow?

P.S That is not my mom with that I-Phone in the above picture.

I just received a text that my parents Donnie and Marie concert was canceled (1 minute ago)I hope they can go see another show instead.

Health goal 2010

On my quest to increase my HDL cholesterol from .28 to .40 (normal for men) I went to the local GNC today and purchased some Omega 3 fish oil pills. The girl at the GNC was very knowledgeable so I felt comfortable. My game plan is to exercise 4 times a week and take the Omega 3 tablets daily. I am also determined to eat healthier. At some point I want to get another blood test to see my progress.

According to several websites there are foods I can eat to help me raise my HDL cholesterol.

Fruits and vegetables - onions (half an onion a day), citrus fruit, apples and grapes and dark green vegetables.

Grains- Pick grains that are high in soluble fiber such as whole grains, oats, oat bran, brown rice, legumes and lentils.

Oils-Look for oils that are high in monounsaturated fats such as canola oil or olive oil. Canola oil is tasteless, so it will not affect the flavor of the food.

Omega 3 -include fish, cold-pressed flaxseed oil, safflower oil and sunflower oil.

Soy- Two servings of soy products such as tofu and tempeh a day help increase HDL.

So here is to eating healthy for those of us that need to. I guess I can set a good example for my daughters by eating right and exercising. I have to thank my wife and sister for encouraging me to to get a physical. Without a physical I would have been on a destructive path to heart disease.

Thanks Veronica and Rosie!

Eclipse Trailer (for my daughters and wife)

Here is the Eclipse trailer I promised my daughter Monica and my wife. They are huge Twilight and for that matter Vampire (books,movies)fans. So here it is.


Robert Patinson - Edward Cullen
Taylor Lautner- Jacob Black (My daughter's favorite)
Kristen Stewart- Isabella Swan

My daughter also wants me to stand in line at midnight this Friday 3/19/10 for the New Moon video release. I better get some sleep!

So long Mr. Fast Food!

Ok so I mentioned in a earlier post that I had my physical and everything came out great. I gave the two vials of blood and the urine sample. My doctor said that my HDL cholesterol is too low ! I have a confession. Let's say that for the past forty something years I have not been eating the most healthiest food on the planet.

I love fast food. I guess you can say that I used to love fast food because I am no longer going to eat anything I want. From my research the HDL cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol, appears to scour the walls of blood vessels, cleaning out excess cholesterol. It then carries that excess cholesterol -- which otherwise might have been used to make the "plaques" that cause coronary artery disease -- back to the liver for processing.

HDL levels below 40 mg/dL result in an increased risk of coronary atery disease, even in people whose total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels are normal. HDL levels between 40 and 60 mg/dL are considered "normal." However, HDL levels greater than 60 mg/dL may actually protect people from heart disease.

According to my lab results from my blood work my HDL came back at 28!!!!!I need to find a way to get my HDL levels up to par. My doctor recommended exercising which I started doing last month. I have been exercising about 4-5 days a week. I have been on using the treadmill and the weights religiously with the hopes of getting my HDL cholesterol up to par. I am also researching what foods and possibly any over the counter supplements I can take.

I will let you know on my progress. I hope to report my some good news soon. I am already craving Whataburger or Carls Jr!

Iron Man 2 trailer

I can't wait for Iron Man 2. Here is the trailer that appeared last night. The trailer looks good with Robert Downy reprising his role at Tony Stark. Cast also includes:

Don Cheadle: Rhodey Rhodes/War Machine

Mickey Rourke: Whiplash

Gwenneth Paltrow:Pepper Potts

Samuel L Jackson: Nick Fury

Scarlett Johansen: Black Widow

Sam Rockwell : Justin Hammer

Looks like a lot of fun.

Running

I'm excited about running my first 5k run in a couple of weeks. I do and don't want to compete. Ok course everyone wants to win one of these races. I want to run this race for staying fit. If I happen to win a 5k run that would not be a bad thing.

I have been training for about a month. To be honest it has not been too bad. I usually start off slow and pace myself for the first couple of miles and then finish strong. I just had my yearly physical and my doctor gave me the green light to go all out as far as exercise. I will let you know how I do with my first 5k run.

Driving in San Antonio....

I am really concerned about driving in San Antonio these days. I am a conservative driver. I am not aggressive. I am a defensive driver more than anything. I always maintain a safe following distance. I usually drive about five miles over the speed limit. With that being said, I have two major complaints.

1. Following distance. I find more and more people are resorting to tailgating. Why do people tailgate? I don't know. What happens if I have to stop all of a sudden? It is very frustrating. People that tailgate don't care if you have kids in the car or even a baby. These people do not deserve to be in the road and they deserve to have their car impounded and fined.

2. Turn signals. No one uses their turn signals anymore. I am driving and someone will cut in front of me using no signal. Honking at these people is useless.

I am concerned at all of the instances of road rage here in San Antonio. I watch it every night on the evening news. I would hope that these people are educated enough to think twice about what they do on the road. I regretfully think that these aggressive drivers have a high school education. That is about it. Nothing good ever happens from road rage. More than likely a trip to the hospital would be in store for you if you are overly aggressive on the road.

Please be careful on the roads. Watch your following distance and use your turn signals. There are families on the road. One mistake from a self centered driver and a family can be wiped out.

The human family

I finally had some time to sit down and watch the Vancouver Winter Olympics this past week. I was watching with my 7 year old daughter when she asked me "What do all of those flags mean from these different countries? And are these people from these countries different from me?" After thinking about this question for a few minutes I replied.

"No these people from different countries are just part of a bigger family.They are part of the human race which we are a part of. They are all your brothers and sisters." Her eyes lit up. I also went on to say "just because they speak a different language we all call the earth home. We all breathe the same air."

I did not want to get too deep with her on that subject but she understood what I was saying.

1986

I will always remember this year because I spent part of the summmer in Mexico City. I visited several museums and spent a few days wandering the streets of one of the largest cities in the world. Somehow I found my way back to San Antonio. I would like to go back one day and visit the same places like El Museo Rufino Tamayo,

Also the Castillo de Chapultepec

How can I forget Paseo de la Reforma, .

I also went into the Palacio Bellas Artes..

Most memorable was when I was sitting at the base of this giant flag pole with the Mexican flag right next to the Presidential Palace in Mexico city. Called the "Zocalo." A couple of soldiers came rushing towards me with their machine guns . I guess I should have known better.

Searching

Never mind searching for who you are. Search for the person you aspire to be. ~Robert Brault

I like this quote. We spend a life time searching for ourselves. I occasionally have to re-evaluate who I am, where I am heading and where I want to be. I always ask myself what my purpose is in this life time.

I know what I aspire to be. I want to be the best dad and the best husband there is. I want to be the best friend and the best brother there is. Whatever the case is, I am striving to get there. There is the occasional road block that life throws at you but it would not be living if we did not have these road blocks.

I aspire to be the man that hopefully my daughters and my wife can look up to.

ABC's "Lost" TV show

I really like ABC's Lost. Too bad it is in it's final season. Yeah there is the time travel and the flash backs and it is a bit confusing at times. But it is quality television. I will miss it. I guess I need to start looking for a new show.

Working it out

I have my yearly physical coming up next week. I am anxious to see how I am doing physically. I know I am at the point in my life where I have to pay more attention to my body. I have been working out for the past month and feel like I am making some progress in the gym. I am not trying to get big or anything like that. It's more of a "get in shape" thing.

I also owe it to my kids and family to get fit and stay on this planet as long as I can. I will let you know how it goes.

To encourage

Encouragement is a gift.

Encouragement creates energy.

Encouragement lasts a lifetime and can be life- changing.

Encouragement motivates positive behavior.

Encouragement is often the most effective form of motivation.

Encouragement most often comes from listening than talking.

Encouragement is more effective than crticism.

Encouragent can be as simple as a smile.

Encourage everyone you know and everyone you meet.

- Adopted from " God is in the small stuff"

Praying

I have been praying a lot these days. I pray for my family to be protected at all times. I pray to help me provide for my family. I pray every morning to help me have a good day. I also pray for people who need help and people who are important in my life. I find that God listens to my prayers.

It is good to pray, it does not make you more or less of a man. It is good to have an open dialogue with your creator. I must have a special hotline up there or be favored because I feel that God protects me and listens to my prayers at all times. I found the following excerpt from the book "Lists to live by" the Christian Collection for everything that really matters, by Alice Gray, Steven Stephens and John Van Diest.

Four ways God answers prayers:

If the request is wrong,
God says, No.

If the timing is wrong,
God says, slow.

If you are wrong,
God says, Grow.

But if the request is right,
the timing is right,
and you are right,
God says, Go.

I try and pray for the right requests. There have been times where God has told me to grow. I also believe that my requests and timing has been right and he has wanted me to go forward.

Joining the ranks

There is no argument that the U.S will soon be busting at the seams with an aging population. The need for more doctors and advanced technology will always be an issue.

I am in my forties right now and I worry about what medical and technological advances will be available to me during my senior years. I am not quite there yet but it's not too far away either.

I am in good health right now. I have started exercising at work and hopefully I can keep it up (I'm crossing my fingers!) The only medical problem I had to deal with is gall bladder procedure that I had done a couple of years ago.
Not a bad medical record for my first forty years.

I am not afraid of growing old. I will embrace it. I look foward to being a grandfather one day. I look foward to holding my grandson or grandaughter. Here is to another forty years.

Teen angst

I met a client for lunch earlier this week. We were both talking about our kids and how they are growing up fast. Pretty soon both of my daughters will be teenagers

The teen years I believe are for discovery . My teen years were ok. I know I was a mischievous kid growing up. I liked to get into trouble quite a bit. I was also a selfish teen. I had moments as a teen that I am not proud of. I caused some heartache to my parents which I wish I could take back.

I do think my teen years made me stronger as a person. I know my daughters will be ok. I know me and my wife will be up to the challenge . Even if my daughters don't like what they hear at times from their parents, I know they will always love and continue to be there for me and my wife even into my senior years.

My sisters are living proof of that with my parents I will let you know how it goes with us.

On the move

Traveling is a requirement of my job. I did a blog post earlier on how much I miss my family when I am away. It's true. I carry a lot of pictures of my family on my Itouch when I travel. When I look at pictures of my girlies I get a level of anxiety that I don't like. I want to hold each one of them but I can't.

I will be home soon and hopefully I can take some time off to be with you guys. Until then.

Looking...

Look up

God will never leave of forsake you.

His word is a light unto your path.

Look out

Confide in a friend

Seek comfort and counsel in local resources.

Look in

Take an inventory of your feelings.

Journal your thoughts, ideas and progress.

Look for truth

Gather information and research your options.

Often natural inclinations are in opposition to God's ways.

Look realistically

Resist the temptation to change others.

Change what you can, accept what you cannot.

Look for balance

Take care of yourself.

Get enough rest, eat healthy,attempt to simplify life.

Look for laughter

A cheerful heart is like good medicine.

Choose joyful music, uplifting books, optimistic friends.

Look for hope

This too shall pass.

Dwell on what is good and worthy of praise.

Look for comfort

Read the Psalms.

Let others encourage you and find ways to encourage others.

Look for God's purpose.

Every experience has spiritual significance.

Press closer to God and allow him to deepen your faith.

-Glenda Hotton

Professor of Home Economics, Masters College