I think it’s the readers; you know the guy’s and gals that write in and comment on what I’ve written about.
If it’s just to tell me I’ve made them smile, or to take issue with something I wrote, or even (bless them) to correct me on a fact that I gotten wrong. (They’re normally right) But, just to be sure I don’t offend any of the other regular contributors or guest writers on LIP, that we all enjoy reading, I’m basing this on my experience being with LIP and speak for no one else, Hey! It’s all I really know about.
And I also thank our host and founder of LIP, Mr. Robert Martin (AKA Mindanao Bob) for giving me my 15 nano-seconds of fame, by allowing me to contribute (such as it is) my thoughts about my life here in this conundrum called the Philippines. Also please do not think that I’m kissing up to Bob, to gain special favor, as I only do that by e-mail in private.
Now for the meat of my article!
Since I started writing here a short while back, Bob has been kind enough to forward e-mails to me from LIP readers who had a personal question that they wanted me to answer. Or sometimes just to tell me they would be in the Subic area and could we meet for lunch? To date I’ve had the privileged to meet some really great folks from around the world.
There is John a Canadian who lives in Austria now, Pita Mike, from Texas, who bought a house here in Bataan, Frank from South Africa, whom by the way will be here again in March with his family. (I’m looking forward to that visit) And last week Fred from Eastern Canada, who visited for a couple of days, and a few others, who for reasons of their own, asked I not mention them. (Can you blame them?)
But all in all, I have enjoyed meeting each and everyone, fun people with a great attitude, and the right outlook on life. So last week I met my “Newest Good Friend” Fred, from Canada, Bob sent me the e-mail, and two days later we’re wandering around Baloy Beach, having lunch and beverages while getting acquainted, I’m going to bravely announce that we hit it off very well with each other, but I’ll let Fred comment on his side of it as perceptions vary from person to person.. But the one thing we both know is his Lady and my Lady, hit it off famously! As my wife Mayang said, “She’s my newest best friend!” That all took place on a Friday (Feb.18th), Fred decided to stay one more day, and so on Saturday we went to Subic Freeport for lunch at Texas Joe’s and the Bubba Cheeseburger we had was good.
After our day out on Friday, we both enjoyed iced teas for reasons you can figure out. But still, we had a great time together, and plan to do it again in the future. Fred is a fun guy to be around, and I hope he gets to meet more of the LIP folks in the future. I’m not going to try to tell you everything about him, as then you’ll miss out if you ever are lucky enough to meet him. So anyway, that’s my perspective on the story, properly slanted, to insure I came out looking well, but I’ll let those guys jump in and tell you the “Rest of the Story”.
Now in the interest of total disclosure, Dave Starr and his bride Mita have gotten together with my wife and me many times for lunch, I met Dave on his WEB-Site. If you’ve not read his blog, go there as soon as you can, he has many informative articles that will help your transition to the Philippines go a little smoother.
So I’ll sum it up with, yes! Paul has chosen to live here, but LIP has added a lot of pleasure to my time here. Thank you, one and all!
Paul T.
I’m also looking forward to meeting you someday. Hopefully sooner than later. Its great that you get to meet all those people. You seem to be a real down to earth person thats easy to talk to. Thats why its so enjoyable to always read your articles. Its great that Bob allows you to do that. Those baby back ribs sure look good. Are they from Texas Joes? Looking forward to going to see Kenny Chesney in concert with some friends of mine from work on March 19th in Tampa and tailgating with them and drinking a few cold ones. Much rather be in Bataan though. The weather has finally started to get nice here, just in time for spring training games next week. Take care my friend and keep doing watch your doing.
Hi Frank;
Spring Training Games, Kenny Chesney Concerts, and drinking beer in a parking lot! Why did I leave the Tampa Bay Area? Well you did it, you made me a little homesick, not enought to get me to the airport. but enought for some fond memories.
Yes the Rib’s were from Texas Joe’s, and great as always.
I’m also looking forward to your next trip, copious amounts of food and beer will be involved, and a wee dram of “RUM”. (It’s a sailor thing).
Randy;
My apologies Randy! I was reading an e-mail from a friend named Frank while also answering your comment. I choose to blame it on the computer, but I will take responsibility as multitasking was never my strong suit.
Paul T.
Totally understandable my friend. You could have also blamed it on the SMB too hahaha. Take care.
Randy;
I’ll accept the blame myself before I’d ever blame SMB’s (lol)
Why thank you very much, Paul, and I am sure Mita throws her thanks in with mine. We have really enjoyed the times we’ve gotten together and it’s already been way too long since the last time. mentioning the Bubba Burger got my appetite all awake again … we went to Cabelen at Clark for lunch and that kind of filled me up.
Not the same as a Bubba Burger, though. And for those who like meeting up for lunches and such, I’m often available in Clark, Subic or points in between. Mita and I will be in Davao early next month also, for any of my southern readers.
Lunch can certainly be a sociable affair.
David;
You are most welcome; It has been a while. Enjoy the trip to the land of Bob next month, and you and Mita have a safe trip. (Safe in reference to flight only, not Davao) Lets get together when you get back.
Dave
Would love to meet up with you when i come to the Philippines next. Looking forward to getting your valuable insight on things like retirement. Have a nice day and be safe.
Paul your articles give me a smile……and my wife thinks you’re funny to read. I told her you were just funny looking…hehe.
One of these days we have to get over to Subic to see what it looks like now….till then….keep being funny!!
Greg;
Funny lookin’?? Okay; I guess you’re right.
You won’t be sorry you made the trip, there is so much to see and do here.
Factoid: Did you know that Subic Freeport has more land area than Singapore? Also it has the largest virgin rainforest on Luzon. (Well I think it still a virgin.) Give me a shout before you come, “Let’s do lunch.”
Maybe it’s “Like a Virgin” – ok, sorry – hahaha.
Gary;
You’re a Madonna fan? (lol)
Isn’t everyone 🙂
Gary;
I believe she was donated to the British Royal Museum, where they have her on display and reciting famous speeches from the House of Lords using her newly aquired Oxford accent.
Paul- Ha ha ha, just the reading the exchange of comments, you guys are hilarious. As you said (was it you?), if you can put a smile on somebody’s face then your job is done.. well something like that. 🙂
Yes Sugar, that was me who said that. Banter is fun, but it’s extra fun if you can goof on Mandona.
Hi Paul – I’m getting hungry just looking at the Baby back ribs and shrimps! Two of my favs! Texas Joe’s, and Bubba Cheeseburgers seems to have yummy food! I don’t think they have restos here in Manila. Oh well. As to the ‘meat’ of your story.. or article, you sure are privileged to meet all the wonderful folks and gain new friends food and to have a drink and be merry and drink with them again. He he
Hi Sugar;
This is the only Texas Joe’s in the Philippines, so far! And I agree I’m the lucky one, there are some really great folks who hang around LIP. (If you don’t count me.)
Hi Paul,
I always enjoy your articles and sense of humour. Keep up the good work.Cheers mate!
Hi Susan;
I’m pleased that you do, but I’ll stop writing if it ever becomes work, since I’m a reformed worker! (LOL)
Paul T: Your articles are inspiring. Thanks for sharing your story. All the best to you. Sincerely.
Roselyn;
INSPIRING! In my life I been referred to as many things, but this was my first to be inspiring.
For that I’ll thank you, and tell everyone I know what you said. Then I’ll look them in the eye and shout; “Did you hear that?”
Okay, I was just funnin’ but I really do want to thank you. It’s nice to hear that from a LIP reader, and proves my point that Bob and this site attract the best people in the blog-o-spear!!!
Hi Paul T: You are inspiring as you meet life with so much joy and enthusiasm. Your humour leaves one smiling.
Roselyn;
Thank you for your kind thoughts, you’ve improved my day.
One of the reason I come here is to read the articles and yours will almost always put a smile on my face. Your out look on living in the PI, RP, PH or whatever you want to use :), but knowing that you are Navy I know that it will always be the PI somewere in your thoughts, are very close to mine. I’m hoping that I can find some time to make a trip to Subic and have lunch and a drink, your SMB and mine a tea, don’t drink any more, been 14 years now. Well keep them articles or stories coming.
Bill (USAF)
Bill;
When I was stationed on Diego Garcia B.I.O.T., I had a Chief Master Sargent buddy over on Clark AFB. When I needed a speed run to the PI, he would hold back my cargo from the C5A flight and panic my boss Navy Commander John P., Who would in turn call his Senior Chief (me) to fly to Clark and expedite the cargo. I’d land and head over to the Load-masters office, tell my buddy Floyd to ship it the next day, then he and I would hit Fields Avenue for the evening. Ah, inter-service cooperation at it’s best. BTW: if Commander P. is reading this, the above tale is a complete fabrication, it never happened!
And Bill, I can enjoy Ice Tea also, so come on over!
Another great article from you Paul. As always a well written piece and I thoroughly anjoy reading them.
I am still in search of a way to generate some revenue while there so I can convince my wife to move for good (or at least part time). We ran into a “snafu” or two this past year but still pounding away. I prefer Pangasinan or the Subic area and she still prefers Manila (QC) because of business opportunities.
Oh how can I make it happen? Ideas are always welcome, heck I’ll even buy the beer if I can get it to fall into place. So far I’ve got…yup, nuthin’.
Cheers and thanks again for a great write up!
Doug M.
Doug;
Let me put on my prediction hat. I see you putting down roots where ever your wife decides. At first I wanted to live close to the beach, so I live on a mountain. It just makes sence doesn’t it? The revenue part I really can’t help much with, but a piece of advice given to me years ago is; “Find the need, then satisfy it” look around each area and identify what is lacking, and do that. There is a German on the way to the Barrio, who noticed that all cars with automatic transmissions could only be repaired at a dealership or sent to Manila. So an older car was S–t out of luck.
That’s what I’m talking about, not transmissions but the need.
Wow we just had an earthquake while I’m typing this I never moved they happen sp often, never a dull moment here. Very mild but the house shook, I’ll go check for cracks in the plaster, and tiles. Good luck on your plans, I plan on having a beer to calm myself down, okay I’m calm, but I still want that beer. Any excuse works for me!!!
Everyone always talks about finding ways to make money in the philippines. I just want to go there and retire–ie not work. Your plans always sound good to me. I will be in the Leyte area in the next few days looking around while visiting family( my ninth trip in the last 18 years.) If the peso gets to strong it wont help. Also the price of oil will make the trips very expensive. I may have to move there to save money! Thank you for all the fun loving advice over the last few years. I was never in the service but I still enjoy my smbs’. I am having my brithday party there this weekend–60 ouch!! (a beach party) It is forcast to snow here the day I leave –hope later in the day!!! My idea of a good use for snow is in snow cones!
Donm;
The snow-cones is a great idea, except you’ll never sell the yellow ones. I was reading where the peso could get to 37 to the dollar later this year. This will affect life here somewhat, but if you’ve planned for it the effect will be minimal. I’ve scrapped plans for a couple of trips, and renovation of our bedroom and bath. I look at it this way, if the peso rate doesn’t change, I’ll still have the money and do it then.
Enjoy the beach birthday party, plus I hope it snows as you’re embarking the plane, because debarking in to the warm bright sun will be more meaningful. Have a safe trip, and a great visit.
Paul you are a work of art. I love your stories! I really enjoy your Facebook posts too.
🙂
Mr. Wigle:
I was pondering the uses for Facebook, and was going to bow out, then it came to me that I could post all the ridiculous things my brain has collected over the years. It was either that or sit at the American Legion and bore the old folks
BTW; I’m 63, and still the youngest guy there.
Paul you’re a funny, funny guy, a very wise man and one cool dad. There are very few people who can write funny, and you’re one of them. I can only imagine what you’re like in the flesh. I’m sure you made every one of your childhood friends blow milk through their nose at one time or another, and you haven’t stopped since. Love your articles, keep em coming!!
Gary;
Both milk and beer! It started in high school when I had to write essays and then read them to the class. I kept them accurate to the subject, but put my own slant to them, teachers were angry when they had to give me a good grade.. Since we all know we’re not going to get out of life alive, make the trip fun. (Wow, I’m going to put that on Facebook)
But if I made you smile, my job here is done.
BTW; Thank you for the kind words.
Ah , now there’s that quote… “if I made you smile, my job here is done” (and off you go to Facebook for status update. he he. You’re funny nice old dude. So Bob Hope you’re idol or three stooges? Ha ha.. I’m thinking of people that’s funny. 🙂
Sugar;
Save the trip, here’s today’s posting.
Nursery rhymes: “There was an old lady who lived in a shoe… and not surprisingly her whole family suffered from Athletes foot” (Paul original)
I never really had a comedy idol, if it makes me laugh I like it. I enjoy the hell out of British “humor”, I just refuse to spell it their way. BTW; I never thought the Stooges were funny, that should cause a firestorm!
Senior;
Man you have a way of throwing down facts. Right now I’m only a reader on LIP but the reason I stick to this sight and Dave Starr’s is because of people like you very down to earth and a straight shooter. You enjoy helping people and show us the fun part of living in the PI.
(I’m an old salior) so it’s the PI.
You are living the dream and meeting other people who have the same dream and love for the PI is plus. Being around people who gave the same positive outlook about life in the PI and have a boat load of sea stories has to be a blast. By the way when we get together in October I’ll match you sea story to sea story and SMB to SMB then will just lie to each other to get ahead.
BY the way the move to the apt is on point and the bank roll is building 26 more agonizing months then We’ll be leaving on a jet plane for good to the land of SMB, dried fish, & rice.
Mike;
Fairy Tale starts; “Once upon a time.”
Sea Story starts; “This is no S–T.”
I’d advise to enjoy those 26 months, because you’ll never get them back. (Unless you were fishing the whole time, as I told you, God doesn’t subtract from life, anytime spent drowning worms.)
I spoke with the local San Migule Distributor and he’s planning on have a good supply of beer on hand for your visit.
Lookin’ forward to meeting you shipmate, take care.
Senior;
That’s Senior Cheif not Senior Citizen!! 🙂
When a guy says this an’t no lie better be wearing boots and pull up you pant legs because here it comes.
Oh I’m going to enjoy my 26 months with my grandkids becuase we won’t be seeing them for a while when we go. I’m just like a kid waiting for Christmas the tree going up and the presents are being wrapped but the big day has not yet arrived.
Heck this is no sh*t and ain’t no lie. I’m just tired of working and just want to retire to my abode in the Philippines B.S with friends and meet new ones. Eat,Drink and be Merry while being waited on hand and foot by my lady and her hired hands. A just reward for a man who has punched a clock for 45 yrs (Well showed up for muster) and toiled through the agony of earning a living and raising children (which sometimes I wish I could have got a cash refund for them like at Wal-mart!). Wait a minute got to check the dinner on the stove. OK Dinner is done so she won’t be mad at me when she gets home from work.
Oh by the way don’t leak this out to my lady in Oct or I’ll be sleeping with the dogs and be squatting at a drain washing my own underwear with that blue AJAX soap they use. Ok maybe I’m being alittle to wild in my thoughts and expectations of Life in the Philippines. But after 32 yrs of marriage and numerouse hits on the head by steam pipes in the main spaces you get alittle dilutional at times. All I know is that I’m the head of my house and what I say goes as long as I’m talking to the mirror. Just having alittle bit of fun for now.
I’m just glad to know We’ll be meeting alot of good down to earth people in Subic Bay in which we can share alot of laughs with and ejoy life in the Philippines.
Shipmate;
Since the turn of this century I’ve noticed that the long laundry bricks have fallen’ by the wayside, and soap powder has become very popular here. My wife is quite fond of SURF washing soap, whereas her mother is a TIDE fan. Me, I just don’t care!
Cooking dinner for your lady, now that is a real gentleman, willing to share the workload. That proves that during that 90 days we were on Messcooking we learned something.
So bounce those grandkids, for there is nothing more fun than that, I’ll even skip beer to do that. See ya in a few!
Paul it’s always a pleasure to read your articels , and looking at ribs well thats good to. When we get to return to the PI I hope we could visit to . Thanks for a smile and a good belly laugh .
Eric;
What on Gods green earth are you waiting for, get here quick, I’m good for Rib’s and beer for breakfast if need be. (But, Texas Joe’s doesn’t open untill 11:00, dang ’em!) And you are most welcome.
Hi Paul, I enjoyed my trip down there, and would really love to make another one with my girlfriend here in Austria, but she has other ideas! (other lands in mind) I really enjoyed meeting you and Dave Starr and your wives. After living in Austria, not too sure if I could live down there all year round, but I did enjoy my three trips to the Philippines. Also enjoy your articles very much – as your readers say – you tickle our funny bones! Take care, and keep the stories and jokes coming.
John;
And we enjoyed meeting you as well. Small things I’m sure of, if a girlfriend or wife has other plans, they will quickly become our plans, it’s funny how that happens. Next time you get here, we’ll do it again!
Hi Paul
Finding LIP and you folks has been a highlight of my transitional period (the time that I’m here in the states researching my move to the Phils). I’ve made new friends here and thoroughly enjoy the interaction. This a great website with a great bunch of people. I look forward to meeting each and everyone of you if I get the chance and to the day when you and I can sit at one of those beach bars and ‘hoist a few’, as we used to say in Beantown!
Mark G.
PS don’t now if you had a chance but check out my FB page for the latest addition to the clan!
Mark;
Nothing will keep you grounded like a new baby, cute naman! We’ll find a beach bar that is baby friendly. Then we’ll Hoist the Main Brace, and enjoy that ice cold “BEAH”, (Non-Bostonians will wonder about my spelling of beer) A little cold back in the states, ain’t it?
Paul I came from 28’C and rain to 28’F and freezing rain. Oy! Today we are getting about 10″ of the white stuff and it’s a rather windy 26’F…I miss my little slice of Paradise!
My family in New England knew in 1964 that I would never live in the cold again. Snow aside from it being pretty in pictures that other people take, is there any other real justification for it? I won’t blame you for missing the weather here. I know I would!
Paul,
As always I get to the end of your post and find myself laughing and longing to be there in the Philippines! Although we have not met yet, I hope to one day. I just need to find a job that allows more than 10 vacation days at a time! Will be back to Cauayan in April, but that will be a busy trip for me! Looking to add a 3rd bundle of joy to my little household then!
Steve;
Best job I ever had for vacations was being a Merchant Seaman, work 4 months, then two months off, plus the work was fun. I have a better plan now, but the money is not as good. (retired) Ten working days off, with the travel time required to get here. I feel your pain, but there will come a time, when the traveling will end, and you wake up everyday here. I’ll keep the beer on ice for you.