Year end Letter 2015

Year End Letter 2015

Dearest Friends and Family:

As this year ends I reflect on what was accomplished 

and what I can do to better my self, my life, and family. 

I cannot believe it is 2016. Where did the time go?

My son Tim is nearly done with his classes at 

Western Illinois University in Macomb Illinois.

He is working on a BS in math with a minor in computer science and philosophy.

May the lord Jehovah bless him as he finds his way in this world; as he learns and grows.  

My son Ken is doing better in school. He has not been struggling as much this year.

He is in the STEP program and he is working part time after school at the Jackson Hewitt, doing janitorial duties and helps with filing. I am proud of him.  

My wife Jill earned her Health Information Management degree. However she is working in food service again. She works at the China Café. On her spare time she does many activities with Bethel Wesley United Methodist Church. She works with the cookie walk, Pricilla circle, bible camp, and plans for the Liturgists.

Me; will, for the most part, this year has been pretty good.

I joined a new church called, “House of the Lord”. I am finding my spiritual self.

I took a trip to Hawaii to visit my Ohana whom I have not seen in 12 years.

I was invited to see Kiley’s High School Graduation. I had a fun time in Hawaii!

I used to go every other year in the Navy, I miss that.

I was a part of my Ohana growing up. I will stay in touch with them more.

My son Ken and I spent our father and son time camping at Coralville Lake.

But we got rained on the entire time. 

We had fun rafting and shooting our BB guns, however.

I work on my writings. I am also working on a Relaxation Therapy Certification.

I am teaching private karate classes on occasion. I am working on the title of Soke.

I will get it one day with determination. My physical therapist is helping me excel.

She has me do some karate and tai chi movements at therapy.

I hope to do my martial arts full time and teach a regular karate class again one day. 

My dreaded downfall is that I still have to deal with constant pain and tingling through my spine, shoulder and fingers. I go to the VA in Iowa City frequently for pain shots and physical therapy. 

Winters are always hard on me.

I pray that 2016 be as blessed as my 2015 and that one day my pain is relieved.

In the next year we are preparing our future to move and to start a new life in New Mexico.

We got the house re-sided, new windows, and the roof was done a couple years ago.

We hope to be in New Mexico in the summer of 2018.

This will be a better climate for my body ailments and a warmer place to retire.

I wish all of my friends and family a blessed year ahead.

Have a great 2016 my friends and family!

Mr. Timothy L. Kerofsky, MA and family

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2016!

10 Things!

10 Things

Timothy L. Kerofsky, MA

10 Things:

1. Believe
2. Baptized
3. Church
4. Bible
5. Spread the Gospel
6. Serve God
7. Tithe
8.  Prayer
9. Good Works
10. Faith

During a church service last week my pastor asked do you truly want to get to heaven.

He gave us a list of 10 things to research.

Yes one can ask for forgiveness and pray, but this is truly not enough.

To be a Christian means to be Christ-like.

To follow the teachings of Christ and lead by his example.

To be compassionate toward others, to be caring, giving,

To be non-violent, war-hating, peace-loving these are the true values of Christians.

We have lost that in a society in where we have to conform to tyranny.

A society were there are terrorism and violence everywhere,

where there are anti-bullying laws in school that do not work,

where there are police in schools that create more problems,

and cause fear to our children,

where there are lies in the government,

where there is corruption, falsehoods, and half-truths.

A society where the government is in control and the people are not.

The constitution says; for the people, by the people…

A society where they are many falsehoods and half-truths in church.

Satan is looking up from hell and smiling at the way the world has become.

The pastor mentioned 10 things which I have listed that Christians have to do.

He is the list and a bible verse that relates to it.

Do some of your own research.

I only put one verse for each…

1. Believe – the first step is to believe in a higher power.

Rather it is YHWH (Yahweh), Jehovah, Jehova, Bog, or whatever.

“For God (Jehovah) so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son (Jesus),

that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

John 3:16 KJV (1611) 

2. Baptized – after you know Christ one should get baptized in him

to receive the Holy Spirit of God!

The Hebrew word for Baptize means to “be immersed in”.

That means to be sprinkled with water does not count as a true baptism.

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations,

baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son,

and of the Holy Ghost.”

Matthew 28:19 KJV (1611)

3. Church – It is important to go to church. Even Jesus went to church.

However, one has to find a true bible teaching church.

And this can be difficult today with all the falsehoods and half-truths taught.

When ones goes to a good Christian church, one learns values, morals, and truth,

one can socialize with other Christians, and one can gain knowledge and wisdom.

“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is;

but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

Hebrews 10:25 KJV (1611)

Now if one cannot find a true bible teaching church,

All one has to do is gather with friends and have a bible assembly.

“For where two or three are gathered together in my name,

there am I in the midst of them.”

Matthew 18:20 KJV (1611)

4. Bible – one must read the bible daily to gain an understanding of Christ,

His word, his laws, and learn how to be Christ-like.

 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom;

teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,

singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Colossians 3:16 KJV (1611)

5. Spread the Gospel – just like Colossians says as will; to teach one another.

Once you learn something about Christ share it with another.

Plant the seed of knowledge and truth.

And then God Jehovah will make it grow in their hearts.

“I planted the seed in your hearts,

and Apollos watered it, but it was  Jehovah who made it grow.”

1^st Corinthians 3:6 KJV (1611)

6. Serve God – is it enough just to go to church? No!

God has a calling for all of us. Sometimes we have more than one calling.

Sometimes we do not know what the calling is yet, but trust in him and he will answer.

And sometimes the calling has already passed; meaning he has already used you.

There are several ways to serve God Jehovah.

One can help at the church with children’s time, with the choir, with bible study.

One can be a deacon in the church; one can be an apostle, or an evangelist.

“Your words have been stout against me, saith the LORD.

Yet ye say,

What have we spoken so much against thee?

Ye have said, It is vain to serve Jehovah:

and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance,

and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD of hosts?

And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up;

yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.”

Malachi 3:13-15 KJV (1611)

7. Tithe – The word Tithe means “10 percent”.

If we give 10 percent of our belongings to the lord he will pour out riches upon us.

He will open the windows of heaven and wealth will pour upon us.

“Honour the Lord with thy substance,

And with the firstfruits all thine increase;

So shall the barns be filled with plenty,

And thy presses shall burst out with new wine.”

Proverbs 3: 9-10 KJV (1611)

8. Prayer – It is good to pray alone and in public. It is good to pray with others.

It is good to pray for family, for others, and ourselves.

There is nothing more powerful than prayer.

Now there are those that do not believe,

because their prayers are not answered right away.

God will answer prayer on his own time, and sometimes it is not the answer we want.

“Rejoice evermore.

Pray without ceasing.

In every thing give thanks:

for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

1^st Thessalonians 5:16-18 KJV (1611)

 9. Good Works – As a Christian we always should be kind, respectful,

and compassionate toward others. We should always be helpful and show good works.

Like helping a lady cross the street, open the door for someone, giving food to the pantry,

helping in a soup kitchen, volunteering for a fund drive, helping a veteran or many things.

It is not always the big things, but the small things that matter.

"Let your light so shine before men,

that they may see your good works,
and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

Matthew 5:16 KJV (1611)

10. Faith – the bible sums up faith like this:

“Faith is the substance of things hoped for,

The evidence of things not seen.”

Hebrews 11:1 KJV (1611)

One can ask how one can gain faith in a being that is not seen.

The bible answers this like this:

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

Romans 10: 17 KJV (1611)

Keep the faith my friends.

Take Care and God Bless!

History of All Hallows Eve

Where to begin? 
Though I am not an expert on Halloween, 
I have studied its history in sociology class in college. 
the fact is that it is a Pagan Holiday, just like the roots of Easter and Christmas. 

Some Historical facts: 

•1. Known as All Hallows Eve

•2. Comes from the Pagan Holiday as a day to honor their loved ones who have died

•3. In ancient Britain and Ireland, the Celtic Festival of Samhain was observed on October 31

•4. Ireland is the only place in the world where Halloween is actually a national holiday and it is celebrated with fireworks where children are given the week off from school. 

Trick or Treating: 

1. In Ohio, Iowa, and Massachusetts the night referred to as Trick or Treating, 
is often referred to as Begger's Night.

2. Trick or Treating resembles the late mid-evil practice known as "souling"
where poor folk would go door to door on Hallowmas (November 1st)
receiving food in exchange for prayers to honor the dead on All Souls Day (November 2nd). 

Samhain Festival: 

The ancient Celtic Festival of Samhain was celebrated in Gaelic Ireland 
to mark the beginning of winter and a animal sacrifice was made for a good harvest. 
They would dance around a bonfire and costumes and masks were worn 
to ward off evil spirits. 

Jack O Lantern: 

The history of the Jack O Lantern is long, and I am keeping this blog short. 
Basically it is about a guy named  Stingy Jack who made a deal with the devil...
He was to walk on earth for 10 years...
He needed a lantern to light his way, so he cut a gourd and made a lantern,
from a coal he stole from Hell. 
Today we make Jack O Lanterns from pumpkins, not gourds. 

You can get the complete history on History.com/Halloween/jack_o_lantern

 Some Halloween Quotes: 

"Sleep those lowly slices of death, how I loath thee." 
Edgar Allen Poe (1809-1849)

"Ghost were created when the first man awoke in the night." 
J.M. Barrie (1860-1937)

 "Do you know the terror of who falls asleep?
To the very toes he is terrified. 
Because the ground gives way under him, 
and the dream begins." 
Friedrich Nietzche (1844-1900)

"In thoughts from the visions of the night, when deep sleep falleth on men,
 Fear came upon me, and trembling, which made all my bones to shake."
Job 4:13-14 KJV (1611)  

Wronged!

How I have been

wronged, bullied, and cheated

throughout my life:

Timothy L. Kerofsky, MA

How many times have you been bullied, mistreated, and wronged in your life?

The other night I was depressed and angry.

I had thoughts of how many times I was wronged in my life.

I was bullied in school and many of those who bullied me,

We are good friends now. This is why I do not believe in the anti-bullying laws. They do not work. Just like the war on terrorism does not work. One has to settle their differences, first by talking, and then by compromising, then fighting is the last resort. One cannot make laws that go against the nature of man. Men, by their very nature, are just like animals. The strong overcome the weak. However, men can also compromise and get along. Like when I was a kid and got in a school yard fight, the next day we were friends and shaking hands. We do not need corrupt cops in school, making the weak weaker; making kids afraid to stand up for themselves in fear of going to jail. I would not have survived if I had cops in school and anti-bullying laws back when I was a kid. Back then we learned how to deal with our problems. We were not criers or wimps. Like kids today are becoming. This is a sad shame. One cannot arrest every bully or every terrorist; which is why the war on terror does not work. One has to get to the root of the problem, like bullying, much of it begins from the home and upbringing. And terrorism much of it is from our own doing. The United States is always getting involved in other countries business in which we do not belong. If we can get to the root of the problem, instead of passing laws that do not work, we can start to fix the problem. 

I am not alone on my views of these two issues I mentioned. There are many truth sayers on you-tube and the internet.

There are many articles written that back my views as well.

Research it yourself. The fact is, one has to get to the root of something, instead of ignoring it or covering it up or passing bogus laws…

It is better to forgive those who have done us wrong,

because it takes away a burden from our heart.

There were many times, however, that I was wronged and many who I, myself, have yet to forgive. Forgiving those who do us wrong, can be hard to do and some wrongs are easier to forgive than others. These wrongs I have yet to forgive:

1.     Those that stole from me and broke in my locker while I was in the Navy on the Battleship New Jersey BB-62. Some I forgave, some I did not.

2.     Those who got my awards for the job that I did. Like when I was the Stateroom Supervisor on the USS John C. Stennis CVN-74, and the person who relieved me got my Accommodation Medal at an awards ceremony a week later. He also lied and said that he was the supervisor when all the Staterooms were being refurbished. He was dishonorable. He could have denied the award. He could have been truthful. This is unforgivable to me. 

3.     Those of the “Filipino Mafia” that mistreated me on the USS Belleauwood LHA-3. I will never forgive them! They had me do all the dirty work, seamen jobs as a second and a first class combat veteran, stuff dogs would not even do. Prisoners in the brig were treated better than me. And they gave me low evaluation marks, just to keep me from being promoted. I put in several complaints to the Captain and several requests to transfer divisions. I was happy to get out of the galley a couple times. Once when I worked for Combat Cargo, once when I worked as a guard for a day during humanitarian operations in Africa when there was an orphanage being built, and finally permanently when I became a Master at Arms at the end of tour. That was a joyful day! I never received an end of tour award, nor was I ever given an apology by my mistreatment. The only way I stayed sane on that ship was my friends that kept me from going insane; Kira, B, CPL Snow,  Old Dan Tucker and my students of my karate class…  

4.     The way I was initially injured moving a Captains Bed that was too big for the Captains at Sea Cabin. And then not getting the proper rehab or physical therapy at the time. Because I never healed properly I have permanent damage today; Cervical Stenosis, nerve damage in neck, tendon damage in right shoulder, that is spread to the left now, tingling in fingers, and right knee damage. Then getting re-injured and finally going to rehab at Great Lakes.

5.     The way I was beat up by those corrupt cops! I got off of a double watch at Great Lakes Illinois and fell asleep in the lounge. There is no way that the corrupt cops should have been called to a Naval Base anyway. They said that they were looking for a drunk homeless man in the barracks and I supposedly matched the description. Are cops really that stupid? And even so, they had no right to beat me up. I was sound asleep and was awoken by being slammed on the deck and then kicked in the stomach and hit with a night stick to my bad shoulder. I had lacerations on my arms. All that happened is that they got letters of reprimand. No suspensions or anything. I swear pigs get away with everything. Like the pigs getting away with murder; which you see all over you-tube! Now you know why I hate cops! Screw those donut eating, no good for nothing jerks!!! There were several other times that I was harassed by corrupt cops! I hate ‘em!

 
6.   Lastly I will never forgive being done wrong by the TLC – The Literacy Connection. I was a tutor for the TLC helping a child, a girl, named Aman with reading comprehension, math, and science. We also did art projects. Colorings, drawings, and made a Turkey hand for Thanksgiving. For Christmas we made cards. And I bought her a nice Kitty Cat Hat for Christmas. I was fired by text message before January while out shopping with my son, Ken. While I was tutoring her brother wanted to take pics of me and her. It was a pic of me tutoring. I got tagged in it on Facebook and used it as my cover photo. I got several people to join the TLC. But then when the supervisor saw my Facebook page, I got fired. She did not even ask any questions or anything. She accused me of taking unauthorized photos and posting photos. This made no sense. There was no conference held, the brother took the pics, I was tagged in them, and I even told the dad to check out my Facebook page. But I was given no chance to plead my case. I was called by the principle of the school and she said I was not in trouble, but never got the job back. I was done wrong. Now if there was a paper to sign that said no posting on Facebook and written rules that is one thing, but when there were no rules to sign, like with my case, that is another. At least I should have had a conference and should have been able to get my job back. I was completely done wrong by a power hungry beep!

Another Shoddy Camping Trip:

Thursday 11 June 2015:

Today was the start of our camping trip adventure.
Me and my son Ken are on a quest for fun and adventure.
But it was a bust so far.
We left at noon and arrived at the Timber Campground in Cambridge, IL.
at around 1330 (1:30PM). We did get a nice spot that is for sure.
It is an open and isolated camp spot.
On the way there we stopped at Casey's General Store and had some pizza bites.
Afterwards we set up camp.
At around 1500 (3PM) we swam to the floating dock at the man made lake.
I dared Ken to swim to it. And he did.

At around 1600 (4PM) we went back to camp
and I made beans and hotdogs on the Coleman stove.
After we ate we made a campfire and roasted marshmallows.
At around 1800 (6PM) it started raining.
We were stuck in the tent until it died down a bit.
A couple hours later it died down, so Ken and I left in the SUV to go get some cards.
But the SUV slid and got stuck in the mud.
It started to storm again and it lightened and thundered all night.
BB guns were banned, but we had fun anyway by pumping them and shooting out air.
We shot down a can in the tent with only air.
We had a moment of fun, but the storm caused me pain.
My stenosis and tendon damage swelled up.
So I had a lack of sleep. I tossed and turned.

Friday 12 June 2015:

I am now chilling in a hotel room watching, "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" with my son Ken-dog.
At 0600 the rain settled a bit and I started bringing camping gear up to the SUV.
I awoke Ken and hour later and we carried all the gear
except the tent and the gear inside it up.
Then we rode our bikes to the front office.
It was still closed until 1130, but we saw the owners husband.
We talked to him and then he pulled us out of the mud.
He really was a good guy.
He got us pulled out by pulling us in a circle down to the bottom of the hill;
building momentum to get us to the top of the hill.
I got muddy hooking up the tow cable,
but Ken and I went to the gas station to get a decent breakfast afterwards. 
I got two eggs over easy, sausage patty, hash-browns, and rye toast.
Then we went back to the camp site, packed up the rest of the gear walking up
and down the hill,
did the laundry, took a shower, and then went back to the site, broke down the tent
and brought that up to the SUV. We left it up to dry the best it could.
At around 1145 we went to the front office and asked for a refund;
but they do not give them.
What a piss poor business this campground is! 
I am glad we left, because what I saw in the laundry room appalled me!
A flyer for "flag burning". Come again, say what?
The campground is hosting a "flag burning" to raise monies for the playground
which was a shambles to say the least.
A "flag burning" that is so wrong in so many ways.
It is disrespectful for us who fought to defend the flag.
It is not right at all!
Ken and I left out of there as fast as we could.
No way we were going to stay until Saturday for a "flag burning".

It rained off and on, on our way to Iowa City.
At 1430 (2:30PM) we arrived and checked into Hampton Inn.
We got a room, unpacked some change out clothes, showered,
and then at 1600 (4PM) we went to Perkin's for dinner slash late lunch.
I got the Tangler Burger, fries, tomato basel soup, and a chocolate malt.
Ken got the country potatoes, chicken strips, soda, and a vanilla milkshake.

Then we went back to the room, changed out and swam in the indoor pool.
Now it is after taps (2200 - 10PM) and we are watching the encore of
"Diary of a Wimpy Kid"...

Saturday 13 June 2015:

This morning Ken and I awoke at 0700. Ken went straight down to the breakfast.
I napped for a few more minutes and then went down to join him.
My continental breakfast was just basic. All I ate was scrambled eggs, sausage, and oatmeal.
I chatted with a fellow veteran. We talked about the VA and veteran's rights.
At 0800 we checked out of the hotel.
Though it was raining we drove down to Coraville Lake.
At around 0900 we arrived at Lake Coraville.
We were the only crazy people out in the rain.
The gentleman at the pier shack said, "hey it is raining".
I said, "so". And asked him if we could go boating with our rafts.
He said "sure".
So we, Ken and I, blew up the inflatable rafts, put on our life jackets,
and went rafting in the rain.

At 10 hundred (10AM) we decided to stay, because the clouds were breaking.
So we took campsite W-8. We were the only real tent campers there.
After setting up camp we left to go get ice for the cooler.
I planned on being gone for only an hour or two,
but we did not return until nearly 6 hours later.
I did not expect that. The day was decent and I was stuck driving around.
On the route one we stopped at Hyvee and got ice.
Ken was hungry, so we stopped at another Hyvee; where a bitch almost hit Ken,
because she ran a stop sign. They did not have food.
So I got on the freeway where and exit said, "food and gas".
We got off the freeway and got turned around.
We ran into a Wal-Mart where I purchased playing cards, lighters
and tie down cords for the hammocks.
After over an hour at Wal-Mart and Ken waiting to get these knives he wanted
(in which no one was there to help him) we left.
But the Zippo lighters did not work,
so we went back and stood in line for over an hour to return them.
After that Ken finally got these blades he wanted.
Then we went to Culver's for a late lunch. I love the butter buns.
After leaving Culver's we were turned around to find our way back to Coraville,
there were no signs saying Coraville, and we were actually 10 miles out of our way.
This nice black gentlemen told us to follow him and he pointed us in the right direction.
Finally at 1600 (4PM) we arrived back at the camp area.
We paid for the site for a night and then went down to the beach to swim for a couple hours.
Ken ended up losing one of his flippers. We searched for it, but never found it.
At around 1800 (6PM) we went back to the camp site
and chatted with the camper lady next to us.
She gave us a burning log to help us start a campfire.

Ken got the fire going and split logs.
While I got the Coleman stove going to make fake hamburger helper
and later we cooked a couple of chops on the campfire.

At around 1900 (7PM) we ate. Then I did the dishes and picked up.
Then I napped in my hammock and Ken in his, which we tied down with the tie downs.
I napped for about an hour, but not sure when Ken got up.
He was by the campfire when I awoke.
We then made S'mores, roasting marshmallows on the fire.
I sang and played a couple songs on my acoustic guitar.
After that we set up the cans and shot them with our BB guns.
This was around 2100 (9PM). It was getting dark,
so I taught Ken how to shot with the flashlight,
and how to be a spotter for another shooter. We had fun shooting the cans.
After that we played card games in the tent; "Kings Corners" and "Draw".
At around 2200 (10PM) I fell asleep...

Sunday 14 June 2015:

Home! Yep we are home from another shoddy camping trip. We arrived home at 1300 (1PM).
My wife helped us unpack the gear. This morning we awoke at 0600, ate "Special K" cereal.
And then went to the beach. We went inflatable rafting and then swimming.
We stayed around there until 11AM.
Then went to the campsite, broke down the gear, packed it in the SUV,
and then left for home.
After arriving home and unpacking the gear, I showered, shaved, and freshened up.
Then at 1700 (5PM) we ate a home cooked chicken dinner.
Now it is only like 1900 (7PM), but I am falling asleep. I am exhausted...

Hawaii with my ohana

 Monday 25 May 2015:

Dear Lord Jehovah, bless my and my family this night as I travel on this train.
I reflect of times past when I was a kid on the Rock Island Line.
I reflect on the good times I had in Hawaii with my Ohana.
When I saw Casey and Cory for the first time back in 1986.
We had fun wrestling upstairs and playing card games.
Woo the memories.
I reflect on the bad times I had on my Navy deployments as well.
The way I was badly mistreated by the Filipino mafia.
Lord help me to forget the bad and focus on the good.
Help me forget the way I was mistreated.
Help me to overcome my pain and tingling and to continue karate.
In your holy name as it is written in Greek; YHWH.
And through your son Yeshua (Jesus). Amen.

On this day I had fun for the most part until the very end of it.
I awoke this morning late at 10AM.
I made a breakfast smoothy and took my vitamins and pain pills.
I then checked Facebook and E-mail.
After that I did a partial field day downstairs.
At around 1230PM we - my wife Jill, son Ken, and I - left for Macomb IL.
We then did our own thing on the drive there.
I listened to my music and Ken watched "Boyhood" on the SUV's DVD player.
At around 1400 (2PM) we arrived at Macomb IL.
We then stopped at the Pizza Hut.
Ken called his brother, my other son Tim.
He came and had lunch with us.
We got the large meat lovers.
Then after eating and socializing we went over to Tim's and his girlfriend Rachel's apartment.
We hung out there until 1700 (5PM).
Then we drove down to Galesburg IL where I caught the 6:56PM (1856) train to Chicago.
It is just after 2100 (9PM) now and I am sitting on the train stuck at Naperville Station.
There is a car blocking the track. What else is new?
I should be in Chicago at 2145 (9:45PM).
Then I have to  find a new set of headphones somewhere.
Mine broke as I was looking for a cap from my highlighter as I
was studying my "Relaxation Therapy" course.
I made a friend today and that is good.
We chatted about God, Jesus, Karate, Hawaii, Elvis, and Kiss.
It was a well mixed conversation.
His name is Tony. He is a really nice guy.
He was supposed to become a firefighter,
but he was shot nine times by a 9MM
while he was working a security job.
He never gave up hope and he is an inspiration to me. 
He inspired me to keep striving toward my dreams.
We arrived at the Union Station at 2142 (9:42PM).
When I got off the train I saw a drug store that was open
and bought me an energy bar, a green tea, and some ear buds
(which are uncomfortable in my small inner ears, but it is all they had.)
I then walked the mile and a half toward the Adam and Deerborn.
The train was $3.00 and I arrived at Chicago Ohare at just before Midnight.
When I arrived I ran into a couple of "Boots" from Great Lakes.
We shared a room at the Hilton.
We checked in, watched Taken 3 on TV, and then I crashed.

Tuesday 26 May 2015:

I am on an Airplane sitting next to Maria.
I am on my way toward Hawaii.
This day started out OK.
I awoke at 0700. I took a shower and then shaved.
And I walked through the lobby toward the airport.
The lobby exits to the airport walkway.
I lost my equilibrium balance and fell and then a "baggage" lady called for a wheel chair.
She was concerned about me.
So I got wheeled all the way to my gate and through the security checkpoint.
At the security checkpoint they patted me down.
I thought of that 8 year girl that got patted down by TSA after the towers fell.
I still have the YouTube video of it under my favorites.

TSA girl

Now I am here sitting on this plane.
During the 9 hour flight I chatted, listened to music, worked on my relaxation therapy course
and drew a picture. It was a long flight...

It is just after 0130. I am sitting here up in the upstairs lounge (the loft as I used to call it).
The lounge where I played "Kings Corners" with Casey and Cory.
The lounge that I wrestled with them..
The lounge that I did my karate kata back in 1986, 1988, 1989, 1990, 2002
and then all the way up to 2004.
The year that I saw Shyly (Shyanne) and Julie.
Shyly walked in on me that year when I was doing karate kata.
Now it is over 10 years later and I am back in the same upstairs lounge (loft) again.
I am happy to be back in Hawaii!
Now Shyanne and Julie are all grown up and have kids of their own.
I played with the kids tonight; Shelby, Lili, Julian, Landry Jr. and all the rest.

Cousin Shyanne holding Bella

PeterFrank playing with his son

I hope to see Casey this time. It has been over 14 years since I have seen her. 

I saw her last in 2002. 

They last time I was here she was working and I did not see her.

Anyway, I am here to see Kiley's graduation. She is 18 now. Wow! Where does time go?

I arrived in Hawaii at 1345 (1:45PM). I waited at the airport until after 1500 (3PM). 

My cousin Julie picked me up.

Then we - her, the kids, and her husband Peter Frank - all went to their house for a bit. 

An hour and a half later we left to go to my Aunt Cora's old house.

It is my cousin Dianne's house now.

The traffic is really bad here in Honolulu. It took forever to get there. 

After I arrived to the house at around 1800 (6PM) I took a shower, shaved, and changed out.

then I hand washed my sweats. Then I came up here to the lounge. 

I played "horsey" with the kids and then took some pics. 

I planned to eat the good dinner that was cooking in the kitchen. 

Dianne made beans and bacon and Julie made a chicken dish.

The kitchen

Dianne and Julie cooking in the kitchen.

Cousin Julie making chicken.

Cousin Julie.

I ended up crashing in the lounge and missing dinner with everyone.
I dosed off hard!
At 0100 I awoke and ate some leftovers. It was sure good!
Then shortly after my cousin-in-law Nelson came in. He works nights.
We chatted for awhile. Then I wrote in here.
Now I am going back to sleep. Good night!

Wednesday 27 May 2015:

I awoke at 0500 and then called Gary Woods and told him of me being in Hawaii. 

He said, "Oh I forgot." 

Then I moved around and stretched out.I then changed out in my "gi".

At 0600 I did my kata's, forms, and techniques.

At 0700 I freshened up. Then I drank some whole milk and took my vitamins

(my daily baggie with my pills, vitamins, and herb tabs).

Shy came out and said, "Good morning." Then left back in her room. 

After that I was a bit bored and went walking around outside. 

When I came back I saw Shy's boyfriend. 

He was heading to the store, so I went with him. 

I bought some "Peace Teas". Awesome! 

It was a fun, yet boring day...

At 0900 Nelson awoke and made me some breakfast:

3 eggs over easy, rice, Portuguese sausage, and bacon.
After we ate we went to the Swap Meet.
I bought another ball cap, because I forgot mine.
And a new set of head phones; noise reduction headphones that play music as well.
There is a chip inside of them.
Then we went to Sam's Club to go food shopping. 
At noon we went to Chun Wah Kam's Chinese Factory.
And we got these Manuas.
They are like a sandwich with meat in the middle and we got Dim Sum as well.
We went back to eat at the house.
Shyanne joined us.
Then I chilled for the rest of the day.
Tonight I drew a mermaid picture for Shelbee.
Then afterwards I went outside and chatted with Shyanne's boyfriend.
I learned a lot about him. And he inspired me.
That was that. Dianne made stew tonight. It was good.

Thursday 28 May 2015:

This morning I awoke at 0630. I changed in my gi and did my Kata.
Then did some situps and stretched.
It was not a big workout this morning.
It is 0730 now.
I am reflecting and getting ready to shower and shave. 

After showering and shaving I listened to music on my headphones for a bit.
At 0830 Cousin Dianne made me breakfast.
I was making a drink as well. I had both.
I made a drink with Kale, Spinach, Berries, Bananas, Greek Yogurt, and Almond Milk.
Dianne made me breakfast of Rice, Scrambled Eggs, and Portuguese Sausage.
It was a huge breakfast for me this morning. But a huge day as well.

After eating I hung out and played with the kids; Shelby and Landry Jr.
They were running around outside. After awhile I got on Shyanne's laptop.
I checked Facebook and E mail.
I pretty much killed time until it was time to leave for Kiley's graduation at Campbell HS.

At 1500 (3PM) we left to go to Kiley's graduation. It was held at Aloha Stadium.
Before the ceremony I got some pics of my little ohana. 
Mahina (moon), Kalei, and Kiana.

It was a long ceremony with 678 graduates.
I "video taped" part of it.
The graduation ceremony went like this:
First off it started late at 1715 (5:15 PM) instead of 1700 (5PM).
There was a Navy JROTC color guard who posted colors,
then there was an "Hawaiian Song",
then the graduating class arrived (I "video taped" that),
then they announced the Scholarship Awards,
then the graduating class came up and received their certificates
(I filmed Kiley getting hers).
Then after awhile I left. It was way, way too loud in the stadium.
I went and top at the top of the bench.
I waited up there until after the ceremony.
Then we walked through the parking lot where they had letters.
We walked all the way to the letter "H" to wait and see Kiley Hariachi. 
When she came out she was full of "lai's".
I asked her how she can move with all the "lai's".

Pics of Kiley and my ohana:

Kiana 2015

Pics of all the Pana families below

 

 

 

Me and Kiley

 

Me with my Ohana; Shyanne, Shelbee, Landry and Jr.

It was nearly 2030 (8:30 PM) by the time we got back to the SUV.
To try to get out of the traffic mess of the parking lot was a slow crawl.
I learned a law that is illegal in the main land.
That is that kids 12 and over can ride in the back of a pick up truck.
I unbuckled my belt for a minute and my cousin Dianne got on me.
There was some commotion in the back
and I unbuckled my belt to turn around and look is all.
Then after putting my belt back on I looked up
and saw some kids in the back of a pickup truck.
I said, "That is illegal in the main land." They said that it is not illegal here.
But when you in a cab of a vehicle you have to wear a seat belt. That makes no sense to me.
Of course at home I never wear my seat belt. It is my choice.

Anyway at around 2100 (9PM) we arrived at Chili's Bar and Grill.
While walking in I was watching the kids table.
I saw them goofing around and little Lili on the floor.
I told her to watch her head as I knelt down and helped her on to the seat.
I looked and saw Julie and was trying to tell her that I saw one of the kids on the floor.
As soon as I went to say that, bam one of the kids fell and hit his head.
He was taken to the ER to get checked.
In the mean time I joined Mr. Pana around at the table.
I was originally sitting at the very end,where Kiley and her group ended up sitting.
But I moved before then to set next to Nelson and next to Shelbee.
Mahina was in front of my and my Cousin Dianne beside her.
Anyway I ordered the triple tacos:
one chicken (pollo), one pork (carnita) and one shrimp.
I got a cup of soup as well, but they brought me a bowl
and a margarita and a water with lemon.
I chatted with the kids and then got up and chatted with Kiley.
We talked about the military and karate.
I chatted with the bartender as well.
I asked him if he knew what a "mop in a bucket" and a "greyhound" is?
I moonlighted as a bartender once and chat with bar tenders once and awhile.
Besides everyone else was talking at the table.
Anyway we all pretty much ate at close to the same time.
And we departed around 2300 (11PM). 
We got back to the house about a half an hour later.
Most everyone crashed (feel asleep hard).
I heard the kids up as I was writing in this.

Pics of my ohana and me at Chili's:

Shannon and Kiley

Friday 29 May 2015:

It is 0630 and I am sitting here. My ears are ringing loud and my head is pounding.
That noise was overwhelming last night.
From 0700 until 0800 I worked out.
Then I made my breakfast smoothie.
At 0900 my ohana and I left for the beach.
We went to Koolina Beach.
I hung out with cousin Dianne, Kiley, Kiana, Shannon, and many other ohana.
Before leaving for the beach I did my laundry.
When I got back from the beach I folded up laundry.
Kiana came back with us. I showed her a couple of karate moves at the beach.
She is like little Janalee was.
She showed "Ka Do" (student way) and that is potential.
I wish I could move here to Hawaii and she could be part of the class.
I truly have passion for Karate. It is my life.
I got a pic of me and her; of me, her (Kiana), her mom (my cousin Sharee), and her brother...  

Me and Kiana

Me, Kiana, Sharee, and a little ohana.

On the beach I also showed Kiley a couple of karate moves
and got lots of pictures taken with me and my ohana.
With my cousin Shannon (Kiley's mom), Kiley, and Kiley's boyfriend.
I had fun posing doing the Tiger, Kiley doing a kick, and "hanging loose"...

Me and Shannon

Me and Kiley

Me and Kiley posing.

Me and Kiley posing

Me and Kiley "hanging loose".

Kiley showing her muscles.

Me doing Tiger, Kiley kicking.

Tiger Man, Kicking Girl

Shannon, me, Kiley

Kiley's boyfriend, me, Kiley

Now I am back at the house sitting here. Kiana is playing video games, Dianne is working,
a little baby is crying, and I am writing in this.

It is 2300 (11PM) now and I just got out of a cold shower.
I am sun burnt to a crisp. Apparently the sun block spray did not work.
Tonight; first I hung around with Kiana. I showed her some basic karate moves.
Then at dinner time kids came over to eat and stay; Mahina, and Kalei.
We ate dinner together. Then I got on Shyanne's laptop.
Shyanne helped me share pics on Facebook with my sun disc.
After that I spent the night helping Landry with his car.
He was raising the engine to put a new block and mount in.
I helped what i could. Mostly handing him tools.
That was that. We got her done. Good night!

Saturday 30 May 2015:

It is just after 0600 and I am sitting here in the back room hurting.
Contemplating on if I want to do karate or not.
I might do some, but I will not put my gi top on.

I did do some karate upstairs, but did not wear my gi top nor a shirt.
It is 0800 now and I did just get out of the shower.
I am sitting here in the nude, cooling down my sun burn.

As I was doing karate, Kiana and Kalei came up and watched some of it.
I showed them some moves. That was that.

At 10AM we all left to go to the graves to honor the ohana that passed.
The kids: Kiana, Mahina, Kalei, Julian, and Shelbee and us adults:
Me, Dianne, Nelson, and Shyanne all left together.
We had a big group so we used the company van.
We went to see Nancy Han's grave first.  Then Uncle Ray's.
Shannon, Kiley and her boyfriend met us there.
Kiley laid lai's over the grave. I took pictures.

 

I also got a family pic in with all of us.

Me and most of the ohana.

At 1300 (1PM) we went to this pizza place called; "The Big Kahuna".
Next to it was L & L an Hawaiian BBQ place.
I should have gotten that. The pizza sucked!
It was burnt to a crisp. Very nasty pizza.
Chicago has the best pizza. The mainland.
At L & L I looked at the menu and saw: shrimp, fish, BBQ pig, and a dish called, "Loco Moco".
a dish with a bowl of rice, a burger patty, fried egg, and gravy.
That would have been better than the pizza. That is certain.
It is an Hawaiian classic!

Anyway, we went to the airport to eat. We watched planes take off and land.It was fun!

Then at 1500 (3PM) we arrived down by the pier where they have the Arizona Memorial boat.
We missed the boat, so we left to go shopping for groceries.
Dianne and Nelson shopped while I and Shyanne was out in the car with the kids.
All but Mahina who left with Shannon.
So we were bored and the kids were jumpy.
Yep, been there before with my young karate students.
I did my Donald Duck voice and sneeze to get their attention.

 
Then just before 1900 (7PM) we arrived back at the house.
Julie was there cleaning out her car.
So we had more kids. They all played as i chatted with Julie.
Dianne was in the house making dinner; her homemade mac and cheese.
At around 20 hundred (8PM) Nelson was leaving to get Mahina.
Her mom showed up and it was time for them to have bonding time...
So I went with Nelson to pick her up.
After we picked her up we went to the Wal-Mart to shop.
We got Ice Cream and stuff and ointment for my sunburn.
I pushed Mahina around in the cart.
Then at around 2100 (9PM) we arrived back at the house.
Mahina was excited to see her mom.
I am happy to see a kid happy. There is no greater joy to me.
At around 2130 (9:30PM) we ate dinner: Mac and Cheese, Salad, and Corn on the Cob.
After that I went upstairs and Nelson and I watched TV. A show about rescuing people.
After the show we were called down for Ice Cream,
but I was too sore and tired and my equilibrium was off. 
I just laid there and crashed at around 2300 (11PM). I crashed hard.

Sunday 31 May 2015:

As I lay here I reflect on not wanting to go home. On the other hand wanting to go home.
I do not want to leave my real family - my ohana. I  have more family here than I do at home.
I have around 32 total cousins with my 3rd and 4th cousins. A lot of ohana.
The other thing is; here I always feel welcome. 
At home on the main land with even my mom, dad, sisters and some cousins being so close;
a few blocks away, I hardly ever see them.
I see my mom and dad on occasion and my sisters and cousins hardly ever.
Sometimes I wonder if it is worth living close to family.
But here whenever I visit, my ohana makes every effort to make me feel welcome.

Anyway, all I did today was go to North Shore with Shannon, Kiley, her boyfriend, Julie, and her kids.
I left with Nelson who was going golfing with Kiana, Mahina, and Kalei.
He took my to Shannon's house. Then we left to go to North Shore.
But first we went to this Pineapple Maze. It was fun! 
I road in the back of the truck there and in shotgun of Julie's car to North Shore Beach.
I did not hit the water of the beach though. I did do some Tai Chi in the sand however.
Julie and the kids hit the beach.
I arrived back here at the house at 1630 (4:30PM).

Tonight at 1830 (6:30PM) I left with Sharon and Gen and we went to "Teddy's Burgers".
We met Jacie there. We had burgers, shakes, and tater tots. And we chatted. It was fun!

Jacie

Sharon

Gen

Me

Me and my ohana

 
At 2030 (8:30PM) I arrived back at the house. I packed the rest of my gear.
Now it is after "Taps" and I am reflecting.
I am reflecting on if I made a good impression on my "little ohana" - the kids here.
Mahina did not really open up to me.
It would take a month for these kids to really get to know me.
I wish I had a month. I told her, "You hurt old man's feelings."
If I could live here I would open up my own dojo and Kiana would be my first student.
But that would probably never happen.
I just have to pray to my God Jehovah.
Good night!

Monday 01 June 2015:

Today was a blast.
We; Dianne, Nelson, and my two little ohana Shelbee and Laundry Jr.,
went on the Arizona Memorial tour.
Since there was a tug that crashed into the dock,
we could not go on the Arizona Memorial itself.
But we did see a film about the attack on Pearl Harbor,
and we took a boat out to go around the memorial.
After that we walked around the gift shop
and I bought Ken and I a Arizona BB-39 hat from the gift shop.

After that we had a late lunch at Shiro's. It was fun! 

Shiro was an inspiring man. He is passed now, but he was inspiring. 

There was a lot of his quotes on the wall. 

I took a pic of the rules to live by plaque.

At Shiro's I got the Loco Moco; the bowl of rice, 2 beef patties, gravy, and fried eggs. 

I got my eggs sunny side up. I finally tried the Hawaiian classic that Kiana recommended. 

I had a blast on my last day, but now I am in the air on my way home...

Watching the sunset...