Xavierism

Proud to be Latino

***Random Play
*Celia Chavez: Sailor's Daughter
*Laura Marie: Drawn
*Salvador: Aware
*Nichole Nordeman: Woven & Spun
*Diana Winter: Escapizm
*Paolo Nutini: Sunny Side Up

Like so many other Hispanics, I was glued to the television so I could watch CNN's Soledad O'brien's Latino in America. I was watching this show along with many of my Latino Brothers and Sisters. Thanks to the social network power of Twitter, we were able to share in real time. Actually, most shared their thoughts while I sat back and watched the show.

From what I gathered so many Hispanics felt that their similar Life history wasn't revealed within any of the stories shared. While I did agree with this take, I also felt that the show didn't take me on a journey of any sorts. Yes, it shared life stories about those that struggled to find a place within our American society but I wanted to feel the human interest element about every day Hispanics coping with every day life. 

I was expecting to watch a story about a single young Latina woman raising her children on her own and working a full time job. To share her powerful story...an every day struggle that women of all colours can relate and understand. I know so many of these Hispanic women. These woman can't even enjoy a time out because she has to deal with Life in the moment. Stories about Mothers that thank God that their teenage sons return home at the end of the day for fear of gangs and it's 'dark alley'. This was far from what I expected. It seems as though I had a whole show playing in my head and it was nothing like the segment I watched on CNN.

I know numerous Hispanic people that could be considered mentors for our young youth. Many that would inspire those of all ages. I wanted to watch stories that would have me cheering for my brothers and sisters as I would a football game. I wanted to be proud of our those that were part of Soledad's story. Instead, I was left feeling as though I watched a bad movie and kept asking myself, "Was that it?"

I was blessed to be born into an amazing family. I grew up to believe that Education was the key. What I learned early on was that Education also came in the form of every day Life's experiences. Since I was a young child, I knew I was gay. I didn't know the 'what' or 'why' details but I knew I was different from most of the boys. I can remember being ridiculed for 'being different'. I now know that these feelings caused me to be an emotional eater and the main reason for being overweight during those years. I was up to 250 when graduated high school. I am so thankful for my Catholic faith. Yes, I am very thankful that my Buelita raised me to believe in Angels and Saints. Because of her, I believe my Faith in God, helped me through so many dark moments.

After battles with Cancer, I believe that I am here for a reason. I'm here to share, inspire, and be inspired. Latinos, like every colour and nationality, we want to be respected. We are more than just a maid, gardener, or gang member on a TV show. Maybe I do have more stories to share...

Final thought? I want thank those Latinos that have inspired me throughout my Life. I want to thank those Latinos/Latinas of today that inspire me to be a better person tomorrow. I'm proud to be surrounded by so many Brothers and Sisters that are doing just that. I'm one of 51 million Latinos in American. I'm proud to be Latino.

    Current Music: Laura Marie's In Code

Current Mood: Proud

All The Way

***Random Play
*A Fine Frenzy: One Cell In The Sea
*Sheila Kirsten Hughes: Perspectives
*Diana Winter: Escapizm
*Aly Tadros: Things Worth Keeping
*Salvador: Aware
*Celia Chavez: Sailor's Daughter

Time is cruel. Rather that's why I say every time I look into the mirror. Gray hairs are popping up like weeds in one's garden. A new wrinkle on face is given it's own name. Cruel. I remember things from grade school. I can remember how I felt at certain moments in time. Close my eyes and I'm back to the moment when my heart was broken for the first time. The 2nd time. The last time I spoke to my Buelita. The moment that I realized Mother and I have similar looking hands. Grand moments in my book.

The Little things. Like the title of my last blog post, I have really thought about the small blessings that I have taken for granted. It's no secret that I have always wanted to be a Father. I've always pictured that I would have a beautiful little girl. It never happened but am blessed to have three beautiful nieces. It's not the same but it's a grand blessing.

Other people actually have kids. I have three cockatoos. Three little feathered angels. I recently had another dream about St. Scholastica. Like the other dreams, she and I are sitting on the same bench surrounded by a beautiful garden. So many little pigeons, doves and smaller birds are in plain view. She gave me a few words of wisdom and inspiration. Just like the other dreams, I turn away to look at the garden and when I look back at St. Scholastica, she's gone. Every time I have these dreams, I truly feel her Love.

Working with Hospice groups, I also do my share as a volunteer. I have spent time with a few Hospice patients this week. On Tuesday, I had lunch with the Mother of a Hospice patient. She didn't ask for anything...she simply wanted to be heard. She had so much anger at God and this world. She simply wanted someone to listen. I sat. We cried. I gave her a grand hug. Every time I meet with family members or friends of Hospice patients, I always feel as though I should gain something from each experience. 

Busy lives. Busy people. Interaction between neighbours and is a thing of the past. It's great to see that Social Media is bringing people together. I believe that I am pretty good at keeping in touch with good friends. The Little Things seem to be grand things in my life right now. It's the little things that give me Faith & Hope. I am thankful that I can get lost in the sea of my blessings.

Take what you gather from this post. Remember that we each have so much to be thankful for...we really do. I woke up and immediately gave thanks to God, my Angels and Saints for allowing me to be part of this day. I look forward to today's challenges. Life is beautiful. Sometimes we must reflect to see & feel the beauty of it all.

Current Music: Salvador's Here I am
Current Mood: Thankful

Now is the Right Time to Help Others...

***Random Play
*Sheila Kirsten Hughes: Perspectives
*Diana Winter: Escapizm
*Nichole Nordeman: Woven & Spun
*Salvador: Aware
*Eliza Rickman: Gild The Lily
*A Fine Frenzy: One Cell In The Sea

This is my Life. It's not always about the moments but rather how I react to the moments and situations. I'm thankful and blessed for having such a wonderful support system. Family and good friends really keep me grounded. I always feel God, angels & my Patron Saints on my side. The Love is amazing.

If ever I had a problem with a friend, I would always care to confront and discuss so that we can get back on track. I've learned that one can't always do that with certain friends. There are those that simply cannot communicate in a manner that would allow for an open discussion. So I simply do the emotional downgrades and let things rest. One case, my good friend Stephanie emphasized how toxic a certain friend was...and it wasn't until former friend unleashed her true colours did I realize that Steph was right. This person is no longer in my Life. It's true what they say, we learn from each person that walks into our lives.

Open doors to the heart and good things will come. I believe this. I'll never forget a quote that Miki Howard wrote in her CD sleeve notes on her first CD: 'Everyone that says they're a friend doesn't mean they're your friend.' Great quote. I finally had a chance to thank Miki Howard in person after a concert and she looked directly at me and said, "Baby, don't ever forget it. You deserve the best people within your inner circle." That advice has stuck with me for years. Thanks, Miki! Bottom line, I'm blessed to have such great people in my Life!

I would like to thank Frank Dickinson, writer and blog owner of All About The Energy for giving me a Lovely Blog Award. His amazing wife, Ruth Ann, writer and blog owner of RuthAnn's Journey has awarded my blog with an Attitude & Gratitude Award. Thanks to the both of you for such honors. Thank you!

I will gladly display both awards on my blog and pass the Awards to other Blogs that I love and/or have newly discovered. Both awards will be given to each blog I write about...each is that amazing!

I must award both Frank (@FrankDickinson) and RuthAnn (@RuthAnnD) with both awards as well. I discovered both on Twitter. During the time I came across both, I was doing a great deal of soul searching and asking myself if I was ready to return and do work with Hospice groups. I've been fund raising and event planning for various benefits but I had kept away as Volunteer coordinator and volunteer work because I wasn't shure if I was ready to return. I remember writing about this. I actually read their blogs before I added each to my Twitter stream.  Each offered a piece to the puzzle of inspiration that I needed at the time. Since then, I always look forward to their blog updates. So thank you Frank & RuthAnn!

*Showers and Sunflowers: I have been following Jude (@HipieChickJude) since my LiveJournal days. I have an amazing connection with Jude. When I first read her words, it was as though I knew her all my Life. She's always been there when I needed support. She's always been there and offered support even when I didn't ask. It's as though she knew I did. We've chatted on the phone various times. I'm honored to have Jude in my Life. She is my Sunflower Angel. Thank you, Jude!

*Jemfyr: Vision, taste, texture and fragrant life!: I met Lynette through my Twitter feed as well. I love her writing. She adds textures and Love to her poems. Read her words you can almost taste, feel, hear, see, & touch the Joy. Experience her Love...visit her blog!

*KellyOlexa.com - Body:  I adore Kelly. She has really helped me with my everyday physical being. I so want to train harder & eat properly. She is my insight to better Living. Thanks Kelly for all your help!

*Matt, Liz and Madeline: I came across Matt's blog after reading about his story on another blog. I read his story and cried with sadness & joy. I won't give anything away in case you are not familiar with Matt's Life. Inspiritation & joy is all within his blog.

If you have free time and want to help others, I highly suggest you offer yourself and donate time to a good cause. Various non profit organizations need bodies to help spread their cause. You can make a difference. It doesn't matter what it is, just get out there and feel good about donating your time and service. I promise you...what you get back is truly immeasurable.

*VolunteerMatch.org

*NetworkForGood.org

I wish I could sit down and just write blog posts like I use to. I actually have many things and topics to write about. Seems the posts dont escape from my head and notes. I MUST CHANGE THIS! Time to head out of office and spend time with Hospice patients and families. Thanks for sharing. Enjoy the Moment!

*****CHEERS!*****

Current Music: A Fine Frenzy's You Picked Me
Current Mood: Thankful & Inspired

Pass It On. Keep the Joy Flowing...

 

***Random Play
*Nichole Nordeman: The Best of Nichole Nordeman
*Missy Higgins: On A Clear Night
*Texas: The Greatest Hits
*Diana Winter: Escapizm
*Paolo Nutini: Sunny Side Up
*Nadine Zahr: Underneath The Everyday

So much negativity in this world. You can't get away from it. Gotta strive to bring on positivity in your life and to the lives of others. Working with Hospice groups has taught me to be thankful about my own Life & blessings.

I thought about Tyler Hurst's (@tdhurst) blog post, Smile at a Stranger. What a great post. It's short, simple and to the point. Read it.

I'll be spending time with a few Hospice patients today. When I'm with each patient, I try to give them all I have. I want each patient to know that they brought & gave and continue to give something to this world. I let each patient know they had a purpose in this world and that I'm still learning from each. 

Compassion & Empathy...it feeds my Hope & Faith. I have a purpose and mission today...to keep the Joy flowing.

Smile...allow others to feel the Happiness. Thanks for sharing.

****Cheers!*****

Current Music: Texas' Say What You Want
Current Mood: Happy Go Lucky & Hungry!

Cherish This Moment

~Edit: I wrote this earlier this morning but forgot to post it. Duh!~

***Coffee of the Day: Gevalia Cinnamon coffee & Chocolate Toffee Cream

***Random Play
*Christopher Jak: The New Nostalgia
*Laura Marie: Drawn
*Melissa Polinar: Into EP
*Eliza Rickman: Gild The Lily
*Diana Winter: Escapizm
*Josh Damigo: Raw

I woke up before the sound of birds this morning. I wasn't shure what I should do...whether to go back to sleep or stay up. After taking a walk around our yard and pool, I decided to go for an early morning run. Instead of headphones and music while I ran, I wanted to mediate and really listen to my body.

I thought about the deaths of Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson. Like so many baby boomers, I remember both so well from my teenage years. Since my Father passed away in 2007, I now view death in such a different manner. In recent years, I've lost a Grandfather and two grandmothers. Losing my Buelita, my Father's mother, was an emotional turning point. I felt as though I lost one of my dearest and most treasured cheerleaders in Life when she died. I didn't realize that losing one's parent would leave such a huge empty spot in my Life. That's exactly how I felt when Father physically left this world.

Since my college days, I've worked with various Hospice organizations. I've been present while many patients have crossed over. It's a beautiful experience when a loved one has passed on and family members surround their loved one with so much Love. There's a peace that's present. A calming peace.

I currently work with a Hospice group as a Volunteer coordinator and a volunteer. When Father died, I took a break. I didn't feel strong enough to deal with the sorrow of others and their families. Earlier this way, I witnessed a good friend fight as Cancer patient to gracefully accepting that the disease would soon take her Life.

Where am I going with this? I'm getting there. I knew friends that lost parents but I never knew the pain and loss that one feels when a parent dies. That all changed. I truly have empathy for those that lose a parent. My Father was a good man. I was blessed to have such an amazing Father figure in my Life. So when I heard the death of a celebrity, family member, or friend, I always remember that the person we lost was someone's Father, Mother, Grandparent, Brother, Sister, Husband, Wife, or Child. I was really put off by so many that thought it was a appropriate to make jokes about Michael Jackson's death. I wasn't a big fan of his but when the news broke of his death, a visual immediately came to mind. It was the memory of my Father's body in a body bag on a stretcher on it's way to the funeral home.

Yesterday, friends and myself learned on Twitter.com that Megan Porter, @megapixel, was killed in a car accident. We never had the pleasure of meeting in person but we did have one phone conversation and countless of chats. She was only 24 years young. I will miss her a great deal. That's far too young to leave this world.  I know that she would want me to Live & enjoy Life to the fullest. It serves as a reminder that if you love someone, let them know. Allow yourself to express your Love to your loved ones. You may not have tomorrow to do just that.

Today, I thank God, my Angels & Saints, for allowing me to cherish this moment.

Current Music: Laura Marie's In Code
Current Mood: Loved & Blessed

Back it up, Back it up!

A Moment with Vanessa at Side Bar.

It's been a good day. I gotta admit that Twitter.com has saved my sanity. Things may not go my way or as planned yet I always have distractions of the best kind. Thanks to all those that I follow and follow me on the site.

I should have learned a lesson from others that recommended backing up one's computer system. Usually people warn and instruct others to do so after they lost valuable information because they didn't do that themselves Well folks, I'm telling you from personal experience, back up your systems! I was trying to import info from laptop to netbook and CRASH! Laptop crashed and I couldn't save a darn file. Long story short, I had to do a recovery on my laptop. I lost everything. So if you're a reader of my blog, please feel free to send me an email (xavier@xavierism.com) with your contact info or comment with your email address. I'd so appreciate it.

Thankful to a great weekend. I spent most of my time with Rodan's family and close friends. Our pool was the setting for the best of conversations & good times. I look forward to Summer!

*Menu Plan Monday thanks to Orgjunkie.com. So many bloggers participate in this affair. Plan your menu for the week and browse Laura's site. Check out all those that participate and get wonderful ideas for all upcoming meals of the week. I look forward to trying out so many. Below is my Dinner Menu for the week:

*Monday: Pot Roast

*Tuesday: Mandarin Chicken Salads

*Wednesday: Ground Turkey/ Taco seasoned & Pasta

*Thursday: Mushroom Cigars & Chicken Strips with Mango Curry

*Friday: Homemade Supreme Pizza

*****CHEERS!*****

Current Music: Carole King's So Far Away playing in my head
Current Mood: Happy, Happy!

Menu Plan Monday for June 8th Week

Recently Planted Bangkok Red Bougainvilleas in Our Yard.

Thanks to Laura at www.Orgjunkie.com, I have a reason to blog on Mondays. She has a huge following of people that share their week's menu planning. Thanks to over 280 bloggers that participate, I now have a variety of personal and new recipes to incorporate this week. I am doing my best to cook more at home rather than eat out. Yes, I love eating out but I want my times out at great restaurants to be special rather than taken for granted. So this idea would be ideal for Rodan and myself.

For now, I would like to post a simple weekly dinner menu so I have something in place to share. Here goes:

*Monday: Chicken wings & Salad

*Tuesday: Zucchini Tart & Veggies

*Wednesday: 13 Bean Chili made in Crock Pot. This is a favourite. It's not a recipe just something that I make often. I will keep log while I add so that I can share recipe.

*Thursday: Leftovers & Salad

*Friday: I plan to make a recipe from a follower on Menu Plan Monday. I'll keep you posted.

Okay, time to get back to work. Hope each of you has a great week!

*****CHEERS!*****

Current Music: Missy Higgins' Sugarcane
Current Mood: Hungry

Google Friend Connect & This and That...

Anna-Maria La Spina Sings Love is More than 3 Words

***Random Play
*Anna Maria La Spina: Mine
*Jon McLaughlin: OK Now
*Melissa Polinar: Sound Vault Sessions
*Keaton Simons: Can You Hear Me
*Carrie Catherine: Green Eyed Soul
*Tony Lucca: Come Around Again

It's been a great past few days. Work has kept me busy. Even with every day stress, I've been eating better than I have in quite some time. I'm doing my best to stay open and focused concerning marathon training.

Thank God I have people that are pushing me to continue running and regular workouts. I need all the inspiration my spirit can gather. I will be attending an upcoming Boot Camp. I'm certain will kill me but I've got nothing to lose but great information for the future.

I'm thrilled that after four days, I finally was able to add Google Friend Connect to my page. Whew! Do you know how many brain cells I killed to get that thing on my page. I'm certain I killed more than the average crack head. I'm serious...true dat! I really need to focus on myself more and writing within my blog as always been a way to unload a great deal of stress and monitor my days. So if you're a reader of my blog and are on Google Friend Connect, please feel free to add me. I'd be happy to do the same. I love learning and sharing from others...especially those that are runners. I need your inspiration and wisdom. Thank you!

Time to have a lite lunch and get back to work. Working on setting up tour bookings for various bands & singer/songwriters.

*****CHEERS!*****

Current Music: Anna-Maria La Spina's Love is More Than 3 Words
Current Mood: Focused & Hungry!

Love What I Do...

***After the gig at Hob Nobs Coffee House, Firemen from across the street invited Celia to pose in front of their Fire truck.

Bon dia! The last two weeks have been incredible! I've gained a few clients and event planning contracts. I always feel blessed to work with various non profit organizations. I always knew that hard work and determination would pay off but it's still an incredible feeling knowing that I am making things happen. 

Dave Yaden and Celia Chavez were in Phoenix last weekend to participate as entertainers at The Phoenix Film Festival along with a few added gigs. This week, ColesWhalen and Guyton Maurice are here to spread their music.  Last night, Coles and Guyton performed a great show to a tough crowd at The Grand Avenue Tavern. By the end of the night, the patrons embraced both touring artists along with local musicians Mike Ferraro and Nate Everingham. It's always a pleasure to work with incredible musicians that have no attitudes.

I love what I do...and thankful I connect with good people. Life doesn't get better than this. Enjoy the weekend!

*****CHEERS!*****

Dave Yaden Performing at Phoenix Film Festival

Dave is smokin'!!!