Welcome to My Site

If this is your first visit, welcome! This site is devoted to my life experiences as a Filipino-American who immigrated from the Philippines to the United States in 1960. I came to the US as a graduate student when I was 26 years old. I am now in my mid-80's and thanks God for his blessings, I have four successful and professional children and six grandchildren here in the US. My wife and I had been enjoying the snow bird lifestyle between US and Philippines after my retirement from USFDA in 2002. Macrine(RIP),Me and my oldest son are the Intellectual migrants. Were were born in the Philippines, came to the US in 1960 and later became US citizens in 1972. Some of the photos and videos in this site, I do not own. However, I have no intention on infringing on your copyrights. Cheers!

Friday, August 1, 2025

If Trees Can Talk- An Update

I am reposting this article I wrote several months ago, after I saw my youngest daughter paintings of her three trees as published in her Face Book page as follows:


Del Ray Artisans is with Ditas Katague and 
7 others
 at Del Ray Artisans.

17h Alexandria, VA 
Come have a look at the “Lovely As A Tree” Art Exhibit (August 1–30, 2025), which explores the ways in which trees impact our lives and this earth.
Del Ray Artisans members bring aspects of this natural phenomenon to artistic life through painting, photography, ceramics, items created from wood and other mediums that flow from their prolific imaginations.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, August 1 between 7-9pm to meet curator Robyn Seaton McGarry and many of the artists.



From My Readings the other day, I saw several photos of giant trees.  I was so amazed by the beautiful photos of giant, twisted, and old trees, I am inspired to share it with you in this posting. The only label you have to keep in mind while looking at the following photos, is this Question.  "If Trees Could Talk, I Wonder what stories It Could Tell".  Here are the photos for your viewing pleasure.













     Meanwhile here's the iconic Blood Dragon trees endemic in Socotra Island, Yemen


And the Rainbow Eucalyptus tree
The Rainbow Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus deglupta) is a striking tree known for its multicolored bark, which peels away in patches at different times, revealing bright green layers that gradually age into shades of blue, purple, orange, and maroon. This process is a natural adaptation that protects the tree from pests and disease while contributing to its unique, ever-changing appearance. It is one of the few eucalyptus species that thrive in tropical rainforests, particularly in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea.

Lastly, here's my favorite Poem on Trees by Joyce Kilmer:

and the Ancient Tree and the Baobab tree endemic to African countries



The Shadowbrook Winery in Walnut Creek, CA

During our scenic drive to the top of Mt Diablo last month, we passed by Northgate Road. That was the first time I saw the sign of Shadowbrook Winery. I got curious, so I did some search and the following article is what I learned.


Shadowbrook Winery in Walnut Creek up off Northgate Road is perfect destination if you don't want to drive up to Napa.
The wine, staff, service, and ambiance was awesome. They have a mixed menu of entrées and appetizers.
Everything was clean and well appointed. The grounds were impeccable. Was really impressed over all. You do need an appointment. You can do it via OpenTable.

In Addition : I asked one of my favorite writing Assistant this question: What Do you know about the Shadowbrook Winery in Walnut Creek,CA.  Here's the answer.    

Here’s an overview of Shadowbrook Winery in Walnut Creek, CA — a standout destination in the East Bay:


🌄 About the Winery

Shadowbrook Winery is a family-owned boutique winery located in the foothills of Mount Diablo. It’s widely recognized as one of the East Bay’s most decorated wineries, with over 60 medals—including double golds—at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition Yelp+12Walnut Creek+12SippnSunshine.com+12.

Founded in 2005 by local native Tim Jochner, who serves as the proprietor and winemaker, the winery emphasizes small-lot estate wines crafted from grapes grown on-site and nearby vineyards. He partners with UC-Davis–trained consultant Rick Tracy to elevate the wines’ quality and consistency YouTube+3shadowbrookwinery.com+3Napa Valley Life Magazine+3.


🍷 Winery & Tasting Experience

Since opening its modern facility and tasting room, Shadowbrook offers a premium guest experience labeled “Close to Home, Far From Ordinary” LinkedIn+4shadowbrookwinery.com+4SippnSunshine.com+4Their facility uses high‑tech equipment like Italian fermenting tanks with remote punch‑down, an optical sorter (one of only ~17 in the U.S.), and spinning barrel racks for barrel aging—enabling precision at every winemaking stage Walnut Creek+4shadowbrookwinery.com+4shadowbrookwinery.com+4.

Their tasting room features multiple distinct spaces:

Tasting options range from simple flight experiences at the bar (Triple Play, Meridian, Summit tastings) to private experiences of limited-edition or estate wines. They even offer a chauffeured Mercedes “Luxury Experience” packageSippnSunshine.com.


🍽 Dining & Events

Dining at Shadowbrook blends contemporary French/American and crossover cuisine, with a prix‑fixe menu typically starting around $50 and special multi-course dinners up to $120/person. Seasonal events between summer and early fall are often themed with curated menus paired with wines Napa Valley Life Magazine+8OpenTable+8shadowbrookwinery.com+8

For the Food Menu read:

https://www.opentable.com/r/shadowbrook-winery-walnut-creek


ℹ️ Practical Details

  • Address: 1 Meritage Lane, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

  • Hours: Open Thu–Fri 4:00 pm–8:00 pm, Sat 1:00 pm–8:00 pm, Sun 12:00 pm–5:30 pmmapquest.com+9OpenTable+9SippnSunshine.com+9

  • Reservation required (via OpenTable or their website), with outdoor seating prioritized for views and ambience. All seating is first-come first-served, but reservations are essential OpenTable+1OpenTable+1.

  • Age restriction: Must be 21+; no children are permitted by policy Yelp+1shadowbrookwinery.com+1.


🏆 Wine Portfolio & Club

Their portfolio includes varietals such as Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Merlot, and Rhônes blends, including limited release “Jon Rae,” “Diablo 905,” and vertical Cab tastingsmapquest.com+2OpenTable+2Napa Valley Life Magazine+2.

The wine club offers members 3 curated shipments per year, up to 25% discounts on wine and tastings, exclusive event invitations, and access to special seating areas like the Members BalconySippnSunshine.com+2shadowbrookwinery.com+2shadowbrookwinery.com+2.


✅ Why Visit?

FeatureWhat Stands Out
Award-Winning WinesOver 60 medals, highly rated across varietals
Innovative WinemakingHigh-tech winery production blended with hands-on craftsmanship
Scenic & Stylish SettingGreat views of Mt. Diablo, stylish design, and multiple tasting spaces
Tailored Tasting OptionsFrom casual bar pours to exclusive private experiences
Chef-driven DiningElevated food pairing options enhance wine enjoyment

Meanwhile, here's a short video of Batman and Robin .


Lastly, my photo of the Day: The Modern Barong Tagalog

The Barong Tagalog—often simply called "barong"—is the traditional formal shirt and recognized national attire for men in the Philippines. It is renowned for its light, sheer textiles, delicate embroidery, and its untucked, elegant silhouette.

Origins and History

  • The roots of the Barong Tagalog trace back to pre-colonial times, evolving from the simple, collarless baro worn by both men and women in many Philippine ethnic groups.

  • Its modern form developed during the Spanish colonial era, when it combined native Filipino elements with Spanish influences, including embroidery and more formal cuts.

  • A popular but debated legend claims Spaniards required Filipinos to wear the barong untucked and made of see-through fabric to prevent hiding weapons—a story now largely regarded as apocryphal, though the style stuck and became a point of cultural pride.

Materials and Design

  • Traditional barongs are made from sheer fabrics such as piña (pineapple fiber), jusi(silk or banana), and abacá. These materials are chosen for their breathability—well suited for the tropical climate—and their refined appearance.

  • Embroidery is a hallmark, often featuring Filipino motifs: floral patterns like the sampaguita (jasmine), vines, leaves, or geometric designs. The craft of weaving and embroidering these fabrics is a respected art passed down through generations.

  • Modern barongs expand on tradition with diverse fabrics, innovative embroidery, and custom fits. Many designers now offer versions in vibrant colors or with contemporary cuts suitable for both formal and semi-formal settings.

Cultural Significance and Use

  • The Barong Tagalog is a symbol of Filipino identity, pride, and dignity—worn at state functions, weddings, national holidays, and significant family occasions.

  • It is considered a garment of honor, celebrated for both its visual beauty and what it represents: national pride, rich heritage, and a blending of local and colonial histories.

  • Today, the barong spans from classic and ceremonial styles to progressive, fashion-forward interpretations reflecting the dynamism of Filipino culture.

In summary, the Barong Tagalog is not just formal attire—it's a living symbol of Filipino heritage, artistry, and national pride.

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...