Friday January 27th 2012, 1:08 pm
Filed under: Jibber Jabber
A few weeks back I dropped off my Touareg to Stevens Creek Volkswagen for a quick oil change. While bumbling around in their lobby I discovered a Mini-Darth cut out. I immediately wanted it. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, click play to view VW’s superbowl commercial from 2011.
After my service was completed I asked my service adviser about the possibility of purchasing it from them after they were done with the campaign. I asked this knowing that VW frowns upon selling marketing items for clients. To my surprise he went above and beyond and actually tracked down a part number for this display and ordered me one of the few remaining untouched Mini-Darths direct from VW. (There’s less then 100 left)
Fast foward to last week. It arrived Friday but we were already in Los Angeles, I picked it up Monday and realized although I really wanted it I had no idea what I was going to do with it. Because I do not own a new Passat, I figured I’d put it in front of a bunch of other vehicles in our facility. So, here’s Mini Darth rolling in a Citroen H-Van.
Mini-Darth trying to use the force on an Audi R8.
Mini-Darth trying to use the force on an old army jeep. Thank goodness he couldn’t get it to work.
While all this was going on, the Scarecrow allocation came through the door. Time to try the force on that too.
So, I still don’t know what I’m going to do with Mini-Darth. At the moment he’s hanging out in my wine locker, but maybe we’ll have a few more laughs then if you want him - look out for him on ebay.
Monday January 23rd 2012, 4:44 pm
Filed under: Jibber Jabber
New Year’s is always tough for me. There seems to be a gazillion things going on and I’m never in the mood or spirit to do anything. This year especially with my father’s stroke (ps. he’s fine now and well into recovery). Put it this way, we’re 20 plus days into the new year and I’ve just had time to write this sad little entry.
However New Year’s is always a welcome section of time. Out with the old and in with the new. Wash away our mistakes, grudges, and start a new…or so we’re taught. I’ve always looked forward to new year’s as it’s a time to celebrate and catch up with old friends, many of which read this blog. Start the new year off with laughter and fellowship. Can’t get much better then that.
Well, then we realize there’s usually food involved when people gather. The past few years I’ve been accustomed to the Japanese tradition of new year’s banquets, a traditionally cooked meal in celebration of health, friendships and continued wealth. My favorite aspect of these meals is the mochi. Soft, fluffy, mochi. Could never get enough of it.
Hope to catch up with everyone as 2012 progresses, it’s been some 23 days (Happy Chinese New Year’s as well by the way), and mine’s been off to a rocketing start. Also, for those wondering I didn’t have time to think or write resolutions this year but I’ll share my thoughts on this another time.
Monday January 02nd 2012, 12:26 pm
Filed under: Jibber Jabber
2011 will go down as the year of weddings. I believe the final tally was some 14 weddings, the majority destination events. Overall, I’m satisfied with what I achieved in 2011. Realized some goals, set new milestones and continue to look ever so forward.
Starting off in January, I picked Crystal up from SJC and nearly immediately headed up to San Francisco to attend the annual ZAP tasting at Ft. Mason. Over 200 wineries represented, and believe it or not we actually strolled out with our own two feet.
We also charted new restaurants, one of the foremost was Fish. in Sausalito. Infamous for it’s crab melt.
Often we set new year’s resolutions but few follow up. Championing Social Entrepreneurship was one of Crystal’s, so we went forth and launched CauseMarked.com - a news source for everything exciting int he world of Social Entrepreneurship.
2011 was also a huge year for wine for us. In perspective of tastings, growth, knowledge, and exploration. It was our first trip to Paso Robles, and we instantly fell in love with the community as well as what’s known as a GSM blend.
Beer was another aspect I chased in 2011. Many thanks to the local beer community, we waited over 6 hours in Santa Rosa for Pliny the Younger. The mecca of all micro-brews.
Continuing our relationship with Paso Robles, we had a Paso Robles themed dinner as well as my first drops of Justin Smith’s wine - Saxum.
Then the Japan Tsunami hit and we rallied for fundraising. We continue to do so today, although the cry has gotten quieter. We were also off to Maui literally days after to witness one of my best friends tie the knot.
We soon realized that 2 weeks on the island was a bit more then the average sane person would have planned. There were days where we literally sat around on the beach and did nothing. In fact we frequented Da Kitchen so much I think they were wondering if we were locals.
It was however beautiful, and shortly after we island hopped over to Oahu for yes, another wedding.
In early 2011 one of my commitments was to capture life. As in snap more photos, and it turns out with such apps as Instagram and Camera Genius on the iPhone, it has never been easier. Camera, Browser, and Social Media hub all in one.
As April rolled around we celebrated Easter with lunch at Crystal’s aunt’s.
And I attempted many a time to get back on the saddle. My performance this year was dismal, maybe I’ll make a bigger commitment in 2012.
Although I did some motor centric events I realized that vehicles aren’t the inspiration they used to be, and focused my energy into other more productive outlets. Although finally meeting Chris and his Ultima GTR was a highlight.
Another highlight was the ability to attend not one, but two Ferrari Challenge events. The Ferrari FXX, 599XX, and F1 cars were unbelievable. Also unbelievable was the fact that we rolled up in everything but a Ferrari.
There never seems to be enough Napa trips, and we certainly had more then our fair share this year. No complaints.
That burger was a mistake. I wasn’t hungry for the following 2 or 3 meals after.
We continued to raise money for Japan, and once again was off to Oahu.
This time for Crystal’s sister’s wedding.
Always a fun time in paradise.
Then would you believe Napa again? Lexus provided an outstanding list of partner wineries for us to visit, and the experience was nothing but pleasurable. Hall Estates, the residence not the tasting room, proved spectacular and our first experience with Ladera on Howell Mountain amazing. Crystal also discovered that staying in Yountville was the way to go - as long as we were in Napa with just the two of us.
Continuing the road trip theme, we visited Pescadaro right after Napa. Picked up some Duarte’s 50/50, met the goats and picked up some herbs for an herb garden.
The goats were fun, and our garden looked delicious. Too bad it would never looks so great after.
In August I had some fun with a couple of Rapha’s contests, and we packed our bags again - this time for Cancun.
Holy cow was it ever so humid. I still couldn’t believe we fell asleep in the pool.
I also realized that I was not one for all-inclusive resort traveling. I preferred to get my hands gritty and hoof it from spot to spot. Sampling the local cuisine, culture, and well…feeling like I left the United States.
The day after we returned from Cancun I hopped over the hill to Santa Cruz. If locations were bucketlist items, I was crossing them off quickly. A visit to Swift Street proved eye opening.
I also finally made it to Verve Roasters.
Monterey Car Week came around and it was an event not to be missed. We mashed it up with Anthony Ray, better known as Sir Mix-a-Lot.
Balancing commitments out, we went to another wedding. This time in San Francisco. Endless short road trips are great for the soul.
Thanks to Crystal we certainly made the best out of these short trips.
Meeting new people, discovering fresh places, and living the experience.
As the year slowly came to a close, I realized what a great surrounding cast I had. The kind that would allow me to hang out on their oceanview deck till 3am on a weeknight.
…and feed me too!
In October we lost one of our great technology visionaries, whose product I’ve adopted to the core.
We once again found ourselves in Napa, this time with guest as far as NYC. Riding for ALS, and one of the most impressive tastings I’ve been to. Our host in Yountville.
Kenzo Estate lived up to, and above the hype.
November rolled around and the end of the year was in sight. We finally made good on our Sykes trip, just 3 of us this year. Casual, Easy and quick.
Partying in LA was a lot of fun. Looking forward to going again in a few weeks.
Oh yeah, while we were backpacking Sykes, Crystal went car shopping. After driving a couple of my company rentals she decided that she liked the BMW 328i, so she brought one home.
It was a sad day when Sniffy passed. The following morning I had her cremated and fittingly had her ashes spread amongst some of our favorite Santa Cruz Mountain vineyards.
As I went off roading, I made Crystal promise not to bring home anything furry. She didn’t, but insisted on going out the minute I returned.
That minute actually lasted over 2 weeks, enough to celebrate Thanksgiving pet free.
The very following week, we adopted Cassie which has been a joy to have in our lives.
Another Paso Robles dinner.
Good Friends, Great Wine.
Another Birthday. My 30th’s actually.
Another Christmas.
And of course my father suffering a stroke to end out the year. Spending New Year’s in the hospital was a real eye opener, and a shoulder check of reality. Although the side of our Defender 110 said it, it was never so apparent. We all have one life, it’s up to us to live it. My father will fully recover, and as a result has changed his perspective in life - in my opinion, for the better. In 2012, I hope to continue on the path of life.
Thursday December 29th 2011, 5:52 pm
Filed under: Jibber Jabber
Give your loved ones a hug, and tell them that you love them - not tomorrow, today.
Only recently has my parents actively started to utilize text messages, and there was a time where I prayed and urged for them to utilize text messages and e-mails more then finally have done so. Now they text me everything, and I mean everything. Getting them on the phone has actually been difficult.
I receive a text late this afternoon from my mother, which was odd, but the contents of that text message was disturbing.
“Ur dad is sick and in the hospital. He had a CT & MRI. The Dr. can’t find the problem, I’ll call you if I have further information.”
Not good right? The last I saw my father was at Christmas dinner and he looked great, the last time we exchanged communication was by email on some miniscule matter.
I exchange a few more texts with my mother but it was obviously of no use. Kept my fingers crossed, said a prayer, and hoped for the best. A couple hours later my phone buzzed.
“Dr. says your dad had a minor stroke. He needs to stay in the hospital over night.”
Rather then bouncing more texts I physically call my mother this time and ironically receive her voicemail. She calls and I miss. I call back and she answers. Maybe there is something more efficient to texting. Now, there’s something you should know about my mother - she’s incredibly strong willed and there’s not much arguing with her. In the Chinese tradition it’s not polite, and not alright to trouble people to go out of their way - both my parents follow this to a fault. I’ve never actually figured out if one just had to insist stronger, or assure them that it’s no trouble at all. Anyways, I offer to swing by - my mother says, “No, your father can’t be disturbed right now. He’s weak and needs to recover.”
“Alright, so how about you?” I ask. She says she’s good, but needs to go home to grab her cell phone charger and eat dinner. I again offer to do so for her, find her charger and bring her dinner that is. She said no, I insisted again. Then knowing my mother I let her have her way. At least it’s a minor stroke, and he’s recovering well I thought.
I strolled over the the adjacent park and played fetch with Cassie for a few minutes. Looking forward to Saturday, when I could hopefully hug my father, tell him I love him dearly, and it’s about time he took it easy. Maybe a jab about being a old man as well.
So - hug, and tell your loved ones what they mean to you. As they’ve said, tomorrow is never promised.
-Wallace
UPDATE:
I ended up seeing him the very following day. Although no stroke is minor, he was fortunate that as far as strokes are concerned - his was extremely minor. Without going into further detail he’s recovering at a rapid pace, and progressing above expectations. Continues to maintain good spirits, and we were able to share a few laughs. Although slowly, we’re certain he’ll make a full recovery by the end of the month. Today, I’m dropping him by and introducing him to the world of Apple iPads, and Flipcams. Should be fun. Thanks for all the well wishes and positive vibes. Very much appreciated.
Tuesday December 27th 2011, 10:19 am
Filed under: Jibber Jabber
Hope all of you enjoyed a memorable Christmas surrounded with family and friends. I spent most of my time with Cassie, and Cassie got to meet a bunch of my extended family. My uncle and cousins came down from Seattle to celebrate with us, and Cassie was a much talked about topic. No one believes that we’ve only had her for some three odd weeks.
I also hoped you received as much as you gave, and that your gifts were not only practical but brought much joy. Giving and getting has become more and more difficult for me every year. It seems that my friends and I already have everything one could possibly want, and the common mentality of shedding materialistic items has been a highlight especially this year. Consumable goods, holiday cheer, and a merry bunch of friends/family are often more then enough. Build upon memories as they say.
Cassie also gave me a Christmas gift, the surprising ability to fetch. I’ve had two dogs prior to Cassie, and although ‘retriever‘ was part of one’s breed it failed to retrieve anything. Cassie on the other hand proved that she could chase, pick up, and return the ball early Christmas morning. Really had a great time with her all day.
I did give myself a couple ‘presents’ this year, the first was remote cellar space. With wine spilling out of everywhere it was beyond time to do something about it. Especially as the number of collectable bottles amassed, I certainly did not want summer to cook them. I spent Monday moving about half the wine in the condo over, and will sort out the rest this week. Adjacent to the cellar, is Baylands Park where I took Cassie for a quick hike. The salt evaporation pools look out of this world.
Cassie was also a champ about trekking through the park’s terrain. Maybe I will take her up Mission Peak at some point. It’s also amazing the number of people who fail to pick up after their pets. Speaking of which, I consistently find my pockets filled with ‘doggie bags.’
As for the second, it’s not really a present, but I got off my butt and finally registered for a marketing brush up course. I do this for a couple reasons, the first is to learn what professors are teaching these days and the other to compare and contrast what we’re doing in the ‘real world.’ I typically find myself in conflict with what professors and textbooks have to say, and have yet to lose in conversation. Unlike math or grammar, marketing and business is up to implementation and application. If you’re able to successfully argue your point - you win. It’s that simple.
Friday December 23rd 2011, 4:33 pm
Filed under: Jibber Jabber
Drink and be Merry. This is definitely turning into the theme of this holiday season, even much more then last year. To kick things off Crystal gathered a bunch of my friends and surprised me with dinner at Alexander’s. Everyone did an amazing job as I usually get clued into this type of stuff early on, I didn’t realize it until the morning of.
What goes great with steak? Aged cabs of course, and a birth year bottle of 1981 Gallo Zinfandel. To my surprise, and everyone else - it held up. Although it was delicate as expected; it was also bright, vibrant, and lush. It only lasted a few hours, just enough to wrap up a couple courses.
As a birthday present to myself, I actually decided to purchase some external cellar space. The situation at home and the risk factor of losing bottles to temperature fluctuations was just something I was not willing to risk anymore. So, if you’re around I hope to see you at “my” tasting room in Menlo Park!
More exciting was our second annual Paso Robles dinner which Andrew Grey was kind enough to arrange and host. We brought the wines, and Guillaume Bienaimé, executive chef of the recently closed Marché prepared a multi-course dinner.
The stars of dinner? Saxum 2001, 2003 and 2004 Bone Rock Syrahs from the infamous James Berry Vineyard in Paso Robles. 2003 was the stand out. I’m pleased to announce we both arrived home - safely and soundly.
Finally, as I type this Cassie is napping by my foot. She’s never spent a full day in the office, and it looks like she’s not cut out to be the working type. Good thing she’s been a great addition to our small ‘pack’ and has been the perfect lap dog.
Looking forward to catching up with all of you who are in the Bay Area for the holidays.
Monday December 12th 2011, 3:10 pm
Filed under: Jibber Jabber
Today I ran into Target to restock on paper towels, which was also the only item under my ‘Target” list today. While inside I realized we needed dishwasher tablets, additional zip lock bags, a dog food storage bin (I’m sure stale dog food is awful), and soon enough I had a shopping cart full of items. As I was checking out I realized that this happened every single time I visited Target. I also came to realize today that I was far from alone.
Whole Foods is next on my shopping list. How exciting.
Sunday December 04th 2011, 10:12 am
Filed under: Jibber Jabber
Meet our new pooch Cassie. She’s a 2-3yr old dachshund spaniel mix which we adopted from South Bay Purebred Rescue yesterday morning. Little did I realize that Crystal had been researching this group and specifically “Millie” for the past couple weeks. As we meandered through through the aisles of Pet Club in San Jose we strolled past the crates of cats and a row of dogs. She suddenly stopped and swooped down, and there she was - Millie met Crystal for the first time.
Her foster parent insisted that we take her for a stroll and become acquainted. As small as Millie is, some 10lbs of her, I wasn’t sure who was walking who. Crystal or Millie, but what was certain was the connection was there. Unlike most sheltered dogs she didn’t have any hesitation when meeting people, nor was she let on any hints about being shy. More importantly, although tiny in size, she does not have small dog syndrome nor any inclination of wishing to be the alpha. She doesn’t shy away from other dogs, and does not show any signs of aggression. As we strolled around Pet Club one thing was apparent, she was a happy dog and with that we decided to sign the adoption forms, pay her fee, and on our way home we went.
On the car ride home we decided that ‘Millie’ just wasn’t fitting, and although I briefly thought of changing it to “Mille” as in the “Mille Miglia” - the literal Italian translation being “Thousand Miles” but more importantly an infamous automotive race, then thought…nah let’s change it up. Cassie just seemed to fit, and so Cassie stuck.
She’s settling in just great, and is becoming a very welcome addition to ‘our pack’. And so…the adventure begins.
Monday November 28th 2011, 11:13 am
Filed under: Jibber Jabber
I have to admit I’m having way too much fun with this Instagram app. It’s like a retro-magic visual twitter as annoying as that sounds. Anyways, I didn’t bring the big scary camera along this holiday weekend but snapped everything through my iPhone.
We did our usual Thanksgiving road trip. First off to the east bay to hang out with Crystal’s aunts and cousins for a turkey day lunch. There were two turkeys this year, and no less then 5 desserts!
Then after a short break we headed over to my folk’s for a more asian inspired meal, except we had ham and sweet potatoes as well.
Throughout the rest of the week this was essentially what we consumed. Leftovers, leftovers, and more leftovers.
I had to change things up by adding a quick mushroom risotto, or making a sandwich, or opening bottle after bottle of wine.
We did almost nothing. Just lounged around, spazzed out in front of the television and movie theatres.
However, we did visit the Silicon Valley Humane Society in search of a new pooch to adopt. Although we didn’t find one that met all of our criteria we’re anything but discouraged.
So, I think the deal is if we aren’t able to find one to adopt by the end of this year we’ll give the breeders another shot. Crystal wants a dog that’s well behaved and house broken out of the box which means we’re looking at a dog anywhere ages 8-15 months. I’m actually fine with a puppy, but maybe more in over my head then I would like to admit.
Well, that’s part of the fun right?
In other news, my custom embosser arrived today and it’s totally sweet.
Saturday November 26th 2011, 7:04 pm
Filed under: Jibber Jabber
In retrospect, I really don’t need anything else but because I understand some of the fun this time of year is actually giving rather then receiving - I’m not going to deprive anyone of this sacred joy. With this in mind, here’s what I want this year.
It’s about time to replace my tired Nikon D-SLR body, and although I don’t need any of the professional series of Nikon cameras I do have my eye on the fresh Nikon D700. 12.1 megapixels, full frame, a 51-point focus system, ISO 6400, HD Video, and full of bad ass.
Keeping with the photo theme is the Nikkor 50mm f1.4 lens. I did have the f1.8 at one point, and realized that I actually missed this lens more then I thought I would. I’d honestly settle for either.
Although the Nikon D700 shoots HD Video, I’m not exactly thrilled about attaching it to the outside of a vehicle going 100+ mph. The GoPro Hero2 and has been on my most watched list recently, as has the Contour HD. Still haven’t figured out which I prefer.
Now for the fun stuff. Lego just released a Volkswagen T1 Camper model. Crystal said she’d kill me if I actually bought it, but what if you bought if for me instead? She surely couldn’t complain right?
This item is more of a necessity then a want. We’ve had the Brita for years, figured it’s time for a replacement. There’s a couple filters left, so as soon as those are used up we’ll be shopping for a pitcher filter regardless. Pur and Clear2o are leading the list.
Crystal says my wallet looks a bit tired. This is one of the few things I’m particular about; I only like Paul Smith wallets, and the Credit Card cases in particular. I have a red one, and a stripe one, so…
As long as I’ve been snowboarding I’ve been a fan of Burton and all of their products. All my boards, pants, gloves, jackets, you name it. They have all been either Burton or their AK line. However, I love wood and Arbor Snowboards keep taunting me with their gorgeous wood inlays.
Any bottle is a good bottle as far as I’m concerned, well…I’m not the biggest fan of two buck chuck. In fact, show me a cheap bottle that can stack up against a Napa cult label - this is what impresses me. Bottles from obscure wine growing regions or producers also fascinate me. This past year I received a bottle of norton which was grown and produced in Montana - so show me what you got.
Triple Aught Design Stealth Jacket. Patrick makes some cool stuff, and I could always use another piece of outdoor attire. I’m a medium.
Yes, Yes, Yes. I know I have too many bikes, and things with wheels but I just can’t shake the idea of a 29er mountain bike set up with drop bars and configured as a CX bike. I would finally be able to take advantage of all the fire roads which crisscross along the peninsula.
Finally, another year another color. No one has bought me a Singer yet, so that’s still on here and naturally becoming some sort of pipe dream tradition.
Well, that’s about it. I don’t need any of this, but if any of it appears on my doorstep I’d be full of glee. I also figured I should follow up with my last two ‘ventures’ from the 2010 list. Wilson & Rosano never materialized, there was a core misunderstanding within the vision and the lack of motivation poisoned the entire deal. Corsa Social on the other hand did materialize with the help of a large client of mine and at this point is being positioned to be acquired.
2011’s been a fun year, and I hope to bump into many of you this holiday season. What’s on your lists?
