Remembering Portland and Seattle . . . . .

I remember when we took our first road trip top Seattle . . . . it was so much fun.  Two girls on a quenching thirst to explore nature and all it has to offer to the eyes.  Even though the experience was great we had some good times and some not so great times as well.  Overall it was a trip that we never forgot.  Driving through the 101 on the coast was incredible; the pine trees, the hills, the ocean I can go on . . . . . Loved it!

We obviously didn’t expect to stop and take so many pictures and lose track of time. We also didn’t expect to get a flat tire and learn how to change one that day.  Getting stuck in the woods isn’t that bad I will tell you, unless you have no battery left on your phone, nobody around and it’s getting pitch dark in a matter of seconds.  Oh did I mention, ended up getting stuck in a cold, dark woodsy area where nothing and nobody was around just us??  It was a bit scary but it was also a step forward towards independence as a woman in this world.  Gave both of us some power of braveness of some sort. Although I do remember that as soon as we saw some sunlight coming in we were on our knees thanking God

I guess what got me thinking of this whole Seattle trip was me talking to some friends of mine telling them how much I loved Portland and how I would move there if I really wanted to.  My sister immediately said “no way, not me I pass”.  But you see even though my sister and I are together all the time and we do things alike and stuff we are actually complete opposites.  Yes, we live together and we do get along and sometimes they do confuse us for twins but we are so not, we are just so different.  And while I can be the happiest person on earth drinking a nice little brew watching old reruns of “kids in the hall” while it’s raining outside she on the other hand would be miserable.  Well she would like the rain though but not “kids in the hall” part or the little glass of brew.. . . . . she is more of a wine gal . . . So getting back to my story so I asked her the other day what she meant by no way on Seattle.  I guess she expected something different in Seattle and how she was happy she was back home. . . . Don’t get me wrong she loved the weather and all but it was just “different”.  She explained to me why ‘”different” was not the good type of “different” she was expecting.  Since she never really talked about it that much I could only imagine . . .  And do not let my imagination go wild because it will-

The first time she went up it was with me and we took the 101 all the way up to Seattle from Berkeley. I recalled it the best road trip ever! I loved the traveling on the 101 and the coast hitting Humboldt then Portland and finally Seattle.

I remember getting to Seattle was very exciting because of all the city lights I could see approaching me and it had that metropolitan feel.  I remember we had booked a Hotel in the middle of Downtown and it was a great idea. When we finally arrived to our Hotel room we didn’t even unpack we just jumped in shower got ready and put on our going out outfits to hit the town.  We had prepared some party outfits for this occasion and we were excited!  Got a cab and told the cab driver to take us to the best restaurant in town.  We ended up in some fancy steakhouse next to the harbor and it was very nice.  We met a couple older executive lads there and they were nice.  Other than that the town itself was pretty desolate not too many things going on in Downtown. That was a bummer but we had fun overall, we ended up at some eclectic coffee house  and met some nice guys in a punk band.

The next day we headed to Fisherman’s Wharf  which was way better, got to see people.  Even though we saw that Seattle had indeed a great population of people, I sensed everyone to be very into their own thing. Nobody really just hanging out and socializing.  Except for the tourist like us, eventually we ended up meting people from all over Californian and even Canada.  The outside of Seattle was nice too but I did like the Downtown area next to the Wharf.  Given that we did not stay for long since my sister was only singing some paperwork for her job we only stayed two days in Seattle.

On our way back home I was tempted to stop by Portland even though it was raining and snowing we decided to go have dinner in Portland.  It was definitely not in our plans but it was early and we needed a break from driving. The minute we crossed the bridge into Portland I felt an instant familiar feel to the city.  The difference between Seattle to Portland was huge.  As soon as we parked and took the trolley to Downtown we immediately noticed the difference.

Our fist stop was the Mall in Portland since the tax thing is nice we did some shopping next we met this guy at J. Crew  who told us about this place on a top of 30 floor building where “everyone” hangs out and that we just had to be there . . . . . so we proceeded to hang around Downtown and have some coffee.  Everyone was so friendly and it seemed everyone knew everyone.  I absolutely loved it!  I remember it was gloomy but there were lights everywhere.  We then went to a local pub to taste some good beer and sure enough we did!  Later that night we met up at the US Bank Portland City Grill on the 30th floor.  The night, the ambiance, the view of Portland was unbelievable!

My First Quaff Oktoberfest Festival @San Dieguito Park

First and foremost I want to thank everyone at the Picnic today for sharing and making today a great day!  Thanks to all my fellow Brewer’s for sharing such great beers.  I think I tried all of them except for the Hell’s Pale Ale (Chile beer)    I was too late for that one, bummer-   On the bright side the Orange Wit was one of my favorites as well as the American Wheat.  

As you can see from the picture (right) the tittle of every beer that  Barley Engineer’s were serving. I also took some other pictures but they still need some editing.  This was the original list . . . starting with The Pommegranate Hefeweizen by Andy Gamelin, Kolsch – Andy Gamelin,  Alt Bier – Joe Sherman, Maibock – Andy Gamelin, Weizenbock – Richard Mang, Cream Ale – Dean McCleary, American Pale Ale – Travis Hammond & Leanne Abe, Brown Ale – Jim Bordier, Saison- Jeremy Jerome, Kriek- Andy Gamelin, Framboise-Mike Johansen and last but not least The Mystery Beer- Hell’s Pale Ale- Ken Schmidt

Yeih,  for the guys in our Barley club! Every beer was unique and had it’s own distinguished taste.  It was a good idea arriving early (thanks Dean)  even though my sister got called into work last minute so she could not attend . . . .  she is still very sad- Maybe next time Kris   A couple people did ask  me about the dish we brought and I will post the recipe as soon as I get a chance. It made Kris and I, happy that everyone enjoyed it-  There is really no name for the plate except it is a German favorite.  We called it Sauerkraut Cooked in Beer, with Spicy Bratwurst, paired with apples, raisins, cinnamon  and walnuts.

I do have to give all the credit to my sister since she is the cook. But this was one of the important steps, letting the Sauerkraut soak with the beer and the sausage the night before.

• 8 links bratwurst sausage
• 2 cups of  red onions
• 4 (8-ounce) bottles dark beer
• 2 cups yellow onions
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 3 large red or golden delicious apples cored and cubed
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 half cup of fresh ground cinnamon
• 2 cups of fresh walnuts
• 2 pounds sauerkraut, rinsed well under cold running water and drained
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Yes, it’s a bit late to be posting anything up but the beer sharing continued at O’Sullivans Pub were we watched the USA vs Honduras Soccer Game  . . .  What can a girl do? Anything for the love of the game!

First Attempt to making a good MEAD

Yes,  this past week has been very exciting . . . although I might be leaving for a mini- vacation soon I still am very excited about Oktoberfest which falls on Oct. 10th of this year.   With the help of friends and my sister who is a genius, I think we will show up with something good   My main ingredients for this Mead will consist of real honey from Robert’s Farm in Temecula, some real cinnamon, and maybe orange peels.  Still debating over that but the rest of the ingredients are top secret. hehe . . .  Anyway gotta run to class again but I will continue this later.

Yesterday Kris and I went back to Hydrobrew again for like our 4th time!  We needed more supplies and I think  finally,  we have everything we need now  The guys there are super cool and they helped us out tremendously-  Thank You Guys!  We are going to be taking some of the classes in the future and if any of  you want to join here is a link to their website http://www.hydrobrew.com/Events.htm

My first invitation to the Society of Barley Engineers . . .

So last night was my very first initiation with the Barley Engineers. I have to say it was a blast!  Everyone was very friendly they all came up to us and introduced themselves plus we got to taste so many brews . . .  I took my sister with me so I would not feel out of place and although there were some of the wives of the engineers we still were outnumbered.   So this whole new adventure started with Dean inviting me a while back and of course me with my exploring and adventurous mind frame said, Why Not?  So I have never brewed myself but have always wondered about it.  Have a couple friends that have been making their own brew and once in a while they will send me a sample of their creations.

Last Night I have to say I had four favorites.  One was the Tripel Karmeliet which happens to be a Belgian Abbey Style Triple Ale.  Seems I tend to like the Belgian Beers .. . It has a robust very smooth and fruity taste as soon as it touches your tongue you can taste hints of vanilla and some bitterness that makes a perfect balance.  It is also topped with a huge white bubbly head of carbonation. Yummy loved the sweet carbonation!  Causes excitement and joy to my mouth . . . .Very refreshing.  It has 3 grains- oats, barley and wheat.  I think that gives it character.  So I was told by a fellow brewer last night that this beer receives its final fermentation in the bottle.   Wow that is totally amazing History has it that is was brewed after the Carmelite Monks tradition dating back as far as 1678.  Totally impressed!  Craving one right about now . . . .

Second one I really enjoyed was Dean’s sweet Cactus Pear Brew.  Guess it’s technically not considered beer??  Not a beer said Dean but a mead.  Well I got my education on Mead’s.  From what I remember from last night is that Mead is made with honey instead of grain.  It was very tasty and made me capture good memories that were floating in my head.  It was bubbly and sweet-  great balance. By this time I was kinda floating already and feeling very happy  and warm inside. Keep in mind we had been tasting different beers for the past hour or two.

My third ch0ice was Ken’s special brew Kona Coffee Macadamia Coconut Porter Brew. I actually got to meet him last night at the meeting. Very funny man came over to say Hello and see how we liked his brew.  It was delicious! My sister could not believe how beer could be so good . . she is more of a wine girl but I think all has changed since last night-

And last but not least we come back to Mr. Dean . . . who would of known?  Well yes indeed we liked his brews.  The last little bottle he brought out of his cooler was an icy cold Blueberry Beer.  This blueberry ale had a medium amber color and created a fizzy head which I liked.  Not much smell of the Blueberries themselves  but it had a bit of  blueberry scent once we we drank it.  But nothing over the top which is a good thing I think.  Mixed in with the blueberry aroma I could pick up perhaps something sweet like caramel, but just faintly.   Overall we loved it . . . Increible  Magnifico . . .  I mean Incredible!  That definitely took us by surprise. I mean I had never even heard of a Blueberry beer but my goodness was this good.  Thank you Dean! : )   And thanks to all the members of  The Society of Barley Engineers, you guys really made us feel at home! And by the way we should inform Tom that we found the book by Papazian on Amazon!  We officially have our own little beer “bible” now  . . . Thanks Tom!

Although we are still wondering why the other members came up to our table asking Dean if we were his wives and if Dean was now Mormon?   . . .  Hmm must be beer humor- J/k  we had a blast!  We will definitely be there next meeting!

Comics and Beer . . .

Recently I’ve noticed many of my old comic book friends and I myself sometimes find reading a comic book or watching Anime with a nice brew on the side the perfect match . . .  Just started school and getting back into the flow of things and many of my old friends that liked “real” beer before with their comics are now brewing their own awesome creations . . . . This is cool.

Last night there was a Hellboy marathon at my friends pad in old town and many people showed up. Many with a bunch of beer and some with their own brews . . .  It was lot’s of fun but unfortunately I cannot drink some of the dark heavy stuff . . . it puts me down.  Had to lay for a couple of hours guess it really got me. It was sooo much fun though. Got to watch one of my favorite movies with a bunch of my old crew mates and new ones too!

Anyhow, also  met Dave who is a full time brewer and big time comic bookie. He was very nice and wants me to come with him on their next home brewing session . .   It actually sounds like much fun.  Anyhow the movie last night made me think of how much I do like and miss Hellboy- the movie.

I don’t know there is something special about a big mean looking devil boy that drinks beer and has a soft side for cats-    Heart full of  love but stubborn as a stone.  I gotta run to class now but I will continue this one later . . . . there is much to be written!  Events have taken a great deal of a turn . . . .

Höllenjunge=Suedehead . . .  . . Warum kommen Sie hier?

Once upon a time there was a Knight . . . .

Once there was a Knight, his name we will not disclose but he came from a far and distant land . . . .  His homeland went by the name of Hibernia one of the biggest and most beautiful Islands.   But this shy and quite Knight was not like any other knight.  He kept to himself mostly and relied on nobody.

One day while riding his beautiful horse along the misty beach he saw a beautiful Dame with long brown hair and fair skin. He made sure not to scare her since she was taking a relaxing dip in the salty ocean.

As he got closer she noticed someone approaching and stopped what she was doing. She felt scared and embarrassed since she was taking a “natural” swim.  As she swam to shore she remained inside the ocean but she wanted a better look of this  Knight. She got a glimpse of him as he passed by and noticed his red, curly hair and his strong hands.  She stood there almost frozen in time.  All she could see was the horseshoe marks left behind in the sand.  They never saw each other again . . . .

Until one day in a different time and different lands far away from home they met once more.  He now was a student at Mira Costa College in Cardiff by the Sea and she was also taking classes there as well.  Neither of them spoke Japanese nor grew up in Japan but for some strange reason they were both in this Japanese 103 class together that evening.   The first day of class they saw each other and felt each others energy immediately.  Almost like a weird Deja-Vu a memory or a connection even though they had never met.  After class he immediately followed her trying to get her name but it was too late she was gone.

I am  not done with this story yet . . . . . .

I dream of unicorns too . . . .

So not too long ago for the first time I watched Blade Runner.  I absolutely loved it so much I had to watch it about three different times! You are probably asking why just now?  Well,  I didn’t grow up in the U.S  so didn’t know much about Hollywood industry . . . and we were also not allowed to watch T.V when we were growing up .. . . long story my father was very strict kinda militaristic and communist- He didn’t want any American media “polluting” our heads.  At least that is what he would tell us every time.  I know it sounds crazy and believe me . . . it sucked!  Overall I get to see all the movies I have never seen and somehow not many of them are great. There are a couple like Blade Runner one of my favorites. The first time I watched was alone-  I was speechless.  Second time I asked my sister to watch it but she fell asleep on it the first 15 min. booo Kris!  Third time I watched it was in “La  Jewel” next to the Cathedral.  Could not get through the whole movie . . . . . Finally one last time I brought it over to my very good friend Dalila and I explained how great this movie was and raved but when she put it on she said she was too tired to watch . . .   So only one other person has told me  it’s their favorite movie so far- still waiting for more people to share the same likings.    

I absolutely fell in love with Deckard in this movie. Reminds me of a friend of mine I knew long ago in a galaxy far, far away. . . . who once said to me;  “human I think I am“ from that moment I knew.  It all made sense to me.

These are some of my favorite quotes from the movie;

Rachel: Do you like our owl? Deckard: It’s artificial? Rachel: Of course it is. Deckard: Must be expensive. Rachel: Very. Rachel: I’m Rachael. Deckard: Deckard. Rachel: It seems you feel our work is not a benefit to the public. Deckard: Replicants are like any other machine – they’re either a benefit or a hazard. If they’re a benefit, it’s not my problem. Deckard: You’re reading a magazine. You come across a full-page nude photo of a girl. Rachel: Is this testing whether I’m a replicant or a lesbian, Mr. Deckard? Deckard: I have had people walk out on me before, but not… when I was being so charming. Deckard: Shakes? Me too. I get ‘em bad. It’s part of the business. Rachel: I’m not in the business… I *am* the business. Deckard: Gaff had been there, and let her live. Four years, he figured. He was wrong. Tyrell had told me Rachael was special. No termination date. I didn’t know how long we had together… Who does? Deckard: Say “Kiss me”. Rachel: I can’t… my memories… Deckard: Say “Kiss me”. Rachel: Kiss me. Deckard: I want you Rachel: I want you. Deckard: Again Rachel: I want you. Rachel: Put your hands on me. Deckard: Do you love me? Rachel: I love you. Deckard: Do you trust me? Rachael: I trust you.

Sometimes I dream of horses and unicorns even though I have never seen a Unicorn I keep seeing it in my dreams . . .  In the Chinese calendar I am a horse according to my birth year- so there might be some connection to the horse in me.  They say we are wild and unbreakable, Horses need to run free and make their own rules. I have always been independent as well as horses feel a simultaneous yearning for independence and freedom.  Untamed and restless, they’re always finding new books, people and ideas, and will plunge into new experiences as quickly as they leave them.  (oops)

Horses are self-reliant . . . .   also crave love and intimacy, which is a double-edged sword since it often leads them to feel trapped.  Horses are seducers in general,  love connections tend to come easily to Horses, since they exude the kind of raw sex appeal that is a magnet to others.  They posses a sharp wit but can be impatient leading them to be less than sensitive to others’ needs.  Most compatible sing for me in the Chinese calendar is a Tiger . . .. .

So for all you fellow Horses like Moi, we are elegant, free-spirited, magical and adventurous creatures. Poetry in motion-  Horses are among the most generous and caring of friends, tolerant of their friends’ shortcomings, never judging, never showing cynicism. They blend the right balance of sympathy and empathy. As faithful and unwavering as the Horses are in their devotion to friends, it is important to tell you that they are never weaklings or martyrs. Their inherent dignity and pride demand honor and admiration.  Horses appreciate the good things of life and because of their dedication to their careers, have the financial resources to keep life on a steady keel. When it comes to Love & Relationships, life for the Earth Horse is exceedingly sad and dreary without love. The Horse will go the extra length to please their partners. They love wild and romantic weekends and traditional whisperings of sweet nothings. They pass a happy life, their blood coursing with life bursting cadence.

Fischerspooner, Morrissey, A-Trak, Manu Chao . . .

So on Tuesday night was our big A-Trak night. I must say the venue which was “Ole Madrid” before and now is called ”Voyeur” is not as nice as it looks on the website. . . .  The pictures looked nothing like the actual cub- Sorry Voyeur but whoever is in charge must be more organized- I was in the club industry before so I know how it is-   The decoration inside looked like they just went to target and purchased some plastic lamps and some semi-nice mirrors.    The lights are probably the only thing they have going for them.  I mean   the economy is bad but seriously for San Diego and being on 5th?? street hmmm no good.- –  Voyeur a 4.5 outta 10.  We got to Voyeur at 9:30-10 to get good parking  so we decided to swing by and went ahead and took a look inside . . . there was nobody there-  I mean Tuesday night and all, understandable but Starbucks next door was more happening!  We thought maybe it will get better by the end of the night . . . .  but it only went downhill.  A-Trak didn’t come on until 11:30 pm which is a little late but whatever- the dance floor was tiny and the bar was not at all impressive. We fortunately were up in the VIP but again not much difference. . . . Ole Madrid what happened???  Anyway,  I wont even mention the bathrooms.

Overall A-Trak was what we went for which was all that we expected.  Hope Voyeur steps up their game if they are going to continue to bring in good people.

My favorite concert so far has beenFischerspooner@ HOB.  Was excited about the new album and they definitely  impressed me!  With their strange handmade costumes, dancing, and performance art it just makes it a lot better.  Both Warren Fischer and Casey Spooner are incredible like always.   Only downside is that of course just like any other concert they put some of the shittiest bands up before and totally not enough of Fischerspooner . . . .  Some people even missed them because they were only live for about 30 min.  We were there early so we got a good spot!

Morrissey, Morrissey, Morrissey . . . . Love him and of course The Smiths but every time Coachella comes around the drive to the middle of nowhere in the heat gets to me. I much rather see him @ Universal Studios.  I mean Coachella was good when I was younger but seriously this year was my last one.  I will travel anywhere else but there. Within the crowds I felt like I should of been babysitting instead of enjoying the bands.  I mean 2o year olds grabbing here and there and trying to make out  . . .  I could be their older sister!! that was no fun-   But yes also went because of Paul bit of a Beatles fan as well.  Overall I loved Morrissey and his attitude like always.  He has a special place in my heart

It would be nice if I could see Sebastian Tellier. I have had some opportunities in the past but never really got around to them- booo for me!  I do regret it.  But still am looking forward to catching him soon- Love his new album “Sexuality” all the songs are divine. Hes got some really cool videos out too!

Last year I went to the Harbor to see Manu Chao in concert and it was awesome! Openiong act Plastilina Mosh which was also great-  Had been waiting to see him in concert for a long time and he finally made here to San Diego.   Got to meet Madjid Fahem who is the guitarist for Manu Chao he seriously works in perfect synch with Manu.  Very nice guy from France but that is a different story-

When we got tot he Embarcadero it was packed! I had no idea how many people actually knew of him even though most of them were foreigners.  Met some nice German people and of course all the Tijuaneneses were all there . . .  saw some of my friends that I had not seen in years and hung out at Cafe Lulu’s afterwards.  Was a very fun night never will forget it-   Merci Manu + Fahem

Turning another Page

Morning of my 31'st

So, just recently turned 31  . . Yeih!!  Not sure if I’m supposed to be as happy as I feel turning older but for some reason I do.  In reality I don’t feel older,  I mean my mind feels older but my physical body does not.  Is that weird or what? Can anyone else relate . . . Anyhow lately there has been a lot of changes in my life almost like a new beginning.

Right before my birthday something very weird and extraordinary happened!  I was at work like every other day, checking e-mails, fulfilling on-line orders, on the phone with customers and so on- my typical day at work when an older man came in my store that smelled very strong like nag-champa incense.  I had a couple customers waiting to get rung up so I told the man “I’ll be with you in a minute” he didn’t say a word he just smiled and kept staring at me.  Hmm I thought maybe by the looks of him he may be lost . . . I mean I don’t’ want to assume he doesn’t play soccer or anything like that but he looked pretty old.

He had long white hair, very dark skin and really black undertones of black along is eyelids almost like black eyeliner.   I was trying to put everything together and realized he might be at the wrong place because next door was a Yoga Studio. As soon as I was done helping my other customers I said to him;  “Hi I think you are looking for the Yoga Studio?”  He smiled and said; “No, I am at the right place” with a really thick Indian accent.   I looked surprised but then I said to him; “What can I help you with?” He answered;  “No help- I am here for you.” I then was really thrown off.

I looked at him and before I could speak he said “You are turning another age soon, you are beginning a new life and your eye of enlightenment is beginning to open“ as he reached over to touch me.  Immediately I backed away from him very weirded out!  He said in a soft and very calm voice, “it’s OK I am not here to hurt you” as he reached over and touched the middle of my forehead.  It felt strange since nobody had ever done that to me- I mean I have listened to Chopra and I do have some New Age and Spiritual friends but I have my own ideas of “spiritualism”  I’ve always believed in re-incarnation and stuff , even think that we are just recyclables that keep coming back to this earth until we reach our highest potential as one.  Not sure where that comes from since I was raised Roman-Catholic . . anyhow getting back to my thoughts-

So I starred at him as he was touching my forehead and he said; “You are ready, your energy has brought me here to you.  Your Higher-Self and Spirit already know what I’m about to tell you, it’s your physical body who needs to physically believe it’s ready.” Yeah you could say I was pretty much in shock. I didn’t say a word it was like I became mute and my eyes were wide open sucking every bit of information and imagery of this man.

As he went on he told me everything that has gone in my life and why, he mentioned numbers and chantras, and symbols, he mentioned days and spoke in Punjabi I believe.  I just listened . . . He grabbed my hand and he said “I am passing what was given to me before I turned your age, now I am passing it to you.  When you feel the right moment with the right energy you must pass it to that person as well.” I felt my hand getting so hot that my whole arm was feeling numb. He then asked me, “Do you recognize me?” I tranced out and let go of his hand.  He asked me again “Does your soul recognize me?” I said “Yes“.  Even though I was saying in the back of my mind; “What the hell are you talking about you don’t know this crazy man!!!”  He then asked me, then tell me what my name is with a huge smile on his face. I didn’t even blink before I blurred out; “Deepak“

He then started writing down a bunch of stuff on a white sheet of paper, while looking at me straight in the eyes and said; “Keep this and when you are ready open it up and chant it, it is part of your awakening process it will help with the third eye.” H e then looked up and chanted something in his language  and said I will see you again.  As he started walking out I shouted; “Is your name really Deepak?” He turned around and before I could even ask he took out his beat up old leather wallet and took out his  ID it read Deepak Rutmi.  He looked at me and said; your mind is very strong and it confirmed why I had come in and see you.  He said goodbye, “Mimi” and that was the last of him I ever saw.   Mimi is one of my many nicknames that only my family calls me . . .  my real name is very hard to pronounce.  I never mentioned my real name nor my nickname to him-

I am still wondering about that day and still thinking about everything he said.  Guess you don’t really think about your existence or what connection it has to everyone else or how synchronized we really are to each other. . . . .     (very much in shock still)