PHASMATROX:

Beauty of Language and The Capacity of Human Evil.

2008-10-10T23:05:00.000-07:00

Untitled, Mixed Media on Canvas, 2008.

It's a little late, but I wanted to post up my latest painting- it's yet to be titled, haven't quite found an appropriate name. What began an exploration in color and calligraphic style ended as a study of my painting technique, as well as developing an evolving style. The image above shows the beginning phases of my painting-- I had just finished reading a book on Islamic calligraphy. I did not want to be disrespectful towards this magnificent style of writing, so I imitated the style to a certain [if lesser] degree, hopefully not actually writing something, I hope! Around this time, I had begun reading on [check blog title] the capacity of human evil... It completely influenced me in this unknown way, I just painted until I got frustrated. I don't have an image to document my frustration, but trust me-- it was quite horrifying.

After many failed attempts at completing my work, it is finally done!

As always, critiques always welcome.

Kimchurry, any thoughts?

Until then,

The Gomez is out.

Finals, Sketches, and WIPs (Works in Progress)

2008-09-17T19:25:00.000-07:00

It's been quite a while!

...However, I've compiled some completed works and others I have yet to finish...and doodles, because they are so [much] more interesting [most of the time]. Click on the images, or open them in new tabs to enlarge.

Sketch, 2008.

I love environments that seem to be too busy- I've yet to find an actual place that feels like this, but once I do..I'll have to stop and draw it..Until then, I live to create spaces that have no sense but convey many ideas.

Global Marshall Plan Illustration, for Tikkun Magazine. Mixed Media on watercolor paper. 2008.

The Global Marshall Plan, also known as the "Strategy of Generosity" is based on:

"reestablish trust and hope among the peoples of the world so that we might begin to reflect and act coherently on ending world poverty in our lifetimes and saving the global environment from the almost certain destruction it faces unless we reverse our policies and give highest priority to protecting the earth. Instead of asking 'what serves the interests of American economic and political geo-power best?' we want a foreign policy that asks 'What best serves all the people on this planet and best serves the survival of the planet itself?' " (Network of Spiritual Progressives)

Untitled. Plaster & Acrylic. 2008

A basic exploration of the color wheel, I loved this project.

Shh, It is Hand-Made. Mixed media on paper. 2008

I love to do labor-intensive, detailed work. I love being focused on one area and detailing until there is no more to work on, ha. Its title is not to demonstrate that it is "photo-realistic" [I don't quite agree with those who say it is], but rather an inside joke between the professor and I with my wonky use of ellipses in regards to the candleholder. Most people can not tell, but the trained eye can easily spot my flaw- however, since the candleholder was hand-made, I gravitated toward that excuse...

Fullerton College, 300 Building. Ink on Vellum. 2008.

As Fullerton College approaches its (75th? 100th?) anniversary providing a great education, I'd like to eventually make a copy of the original and maybe add some color. They might actually take it in, no?

That is all for now, I'll have to scan in some life drawing gestures [always fun] and more doodles.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

La Ultima Despedida (The Final Good-Bye)

2008-08-08T01:16:00.000-07:00

Me duele aun el espiritu- déjame decirles que extraño es sentir un dolor tan fuerte por alguien que nunca he visto. Hablo sobre José Medellin y si me hubieran preguntado si algun dia tendria un amigo como el, yo nunca les creeria.

Pero ya me conocen por mi vida loca-- pasaria algo no muy comun.

Empeze mi conversacion con José en principios de Enero y fui absolutamente sorprendida por su inteligencia y humildad- sera que esos 14 años le dejo muchisimo tiempo para arrepentir su crimen.

Si, ya se lo que hizo a las victimas fue espeluznante, pero es igual de desesperante sabiendo que hemos recurrido a la pena de muerte. Esto no es justicia. Me da muchisisma tristeza que Jennifer y Elizabeth nunca les llego la oportunidad de una vida que merecian--y a veces eso me daba mas furia de lo que sufrio José.

Lo bueno es que el esta en un hermoso lugar en donde la gente no lo odia- quiza con unos angeles cantando sobre una cascada majestuosa..la verdad, no se como es el tal lugar ..pero si espero que encontro la paz aunque muchos deseaban su sangre. Mi pobre amigo, tanto que llore por ti, cuanto te extrañara tu familia...

Luchare por ti y por todos que estan [o estaban] en tu situacion para ya no tener muertes innecesarias . Esto podra ser mi ultima oportunidad de iniciar algun cambio...

Jennifer
Elizabeth
José
y desde hace unas horas, Heliberto Chi
Q.E.P.D.

----------------------------------------

I'm still hurt- let me tell you how weird it is feeling such a tremendous loss over someone I've never met. I'm talking about José Medellin-- had you asked me in the past if I'd have a friend like him, I would never believe you.

But I'm known to have crazy things happen to me-- not everyday things.

I began my short but meaningful conversation with José at the beginning of January 2008 and I was absolutely surprised by his utter intelligence and humilty- it could be that those 14 years in prison left him more than enough time to think about his actions.

I know that what he did is horrifying, but it is equally frustrating knowing that we as a society resort to the death penalty as a means to bring closure. This is an injustice. It makes me truly sad knowing that Jennifer and Elizabeth never got the opportunity to live the lives that they deserved and many times that made me even more furious.

The good thing is that he [alongside his victims] are in a beautiful place where he is not bothered by people who hate him or insult him- perhaps with angels chanting over a majestic waterfall..to be honest, I can never know how this place is like, but I do hope that he found peace although many yearned for his blood. My dear friend, how much I did cry for you when I found out, your family will miss you always...

I will fight on your behalf and for everyone else who is [or was] in your situation so that we do not suffer the witnessing of unnecessary deaths. This could be my calling to leave a lasting impact here on Earth, and initiate some much needed change in our society...

Jennifer
Elizabeth
José
and now, Heliberto Chi
Rest in Peace

Of Blood, Nationality, and the Right to Life.

2008-08-04T17:55:00.000-07:00

As Jose Medellin's execution for the 1993 rape and murder of two girls [alongside 5 other gang-members] looms over the horizon, tomorrow August 5th is a day of closure for some and a loss for others. Unfortunately, Medellin's high-profile case has made it extremely difficult for a stay of execution [as you can tell I am against the death penalty].

Being in close contact with the inmate, I've become interested in the trial itself and what the media has to portray-and I've come to the same [disillusioned] conclusion:

People are stupid- their arguments for supporting Medellin's death sentence is another excuse to push their racist and anti-immigrant agendas.

I ask that you go to Yahoo!, Google, or whatever and type in Jose Medellin- any Texan webnews will have a story on him-- read as you like but pay attention to the "Citizen's Column" AKA the comments. I read over and over on why "Mexico should work harder to close its borders and keep its people away from the U.S." Dozens of people commented on the inmate's "ILLEGAL" status.

I can't help but to think,"WOW people, think beyond his country of origin, and look at the matter at hand!"

Yet they continue spewing hatred and fear-- I am truly disappointed in the American people, no joke, for actually holding such destructive thoughts.If you're going to argue on something so great as someone else's life, make it smart and relevant, not unsubstantiated and so 18th century.

I Love The French.

2008-03-30T16:42:00.000-07:00

At least I know they appreciate the arts.

One of my favorite auteurs of all time, Camus he sums up the importance of the arts' impact:

It reads: Without Freedom, No Art; Art lives only on the restraints it imposes itself and dies of all others.
Ah, glory!

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Forgotten Letters.

2007-12-18T20:00:00.000-08:00

"Tragedia"

Writing letters is usually an activity that involves at least two people: the writer and the reader... However, when you write a letter to someone who will never receive it-- that is where the plot gets interesting...

This is a story about an experience I had years ago, when I discovered a beautiful, worn box and I was intrigued to find out the contents within the box [if anything!]

-What I discovered was something very much out of a Hollywood film-

I found these uber-aged envelopes with the most hauntingly beautiful writing I have ever read. These are letters brimming with unrequited love, an eternal sadness, and a search for companionship, signed by a mysterious "La Amante Sofia" ["The Lover, Sofia]. My friend and I located this box on the outskirts of a park, and these letters looked so old, we were afraid of them turning into dust.

So we did the crazy, and decided to resort to some good, old-fashioned detective work and find the author behind these writings.

All but one of the letters were missing an address, so we went to the residence of the address, and sadly, the woman was not living there anymore; however, the current owners DID know the past owners and they planned to contact her about this box. A few days later, we got in contact with the previous owner and found out that she lived like 4 hours away! Thinking this was too good of an opportunity to pass up, my friend and I headed to her place and investigate the origins of these letters!

The look on this woman's face once she took a look into the box was -for lack of a better word- priceless. She just began weeping "My sister, my sister..." and said "Thank you" about a thousand times...

She sat us down for a very long, detailed story about her sister's legacy, who sadly took her life decades ago. These letters further highlight this woman at the deepest corners of despair... again, I have never read anything so beautiful and perfect, although overwhelmingly troubled. She was a person longing her love, leaving it up to one man and his word to return to her but instead finding love in another woman.

"La Amante Sofia" never recovered from this heartache, and began writing for days and days until sometime in between, she stopped writing.

Either out of spite or anger, she refused to sign her letters with her known name, and thus the creation of "Sofia."

I had so many questions, but seeing this nice old woman in tears was just too much and some things are better left as mysteries, no?

Some of her writings deeply affected the way I write everything- even these blogs-- although I'm nowhere near close to the amazing skill this woman had..

Alright, that was just a small story I had to share.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Art Pieces For Sale.

2007-12-02T22:53:00.000-08:00

I've finally decided to let go of two pieces for my college's art exhibit and sale.

I believe that the artwork has to reflect the course material, and since I'm currently taking figure drawing class, I'm submitting [tasteful] nudes to the exhibit.

Tell me what you think :o)

Mujer En Verde 1.0, 2007

La Femme Aux Ailes Bizarres, 2007

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Celebrity Update!

2007-11-27T23:13:00.000-08:00

One of my previous posts mentioned that I saw 2 celebrities, well I got their names:

Harland Williams

James Woods

I wasn't too excited or anything, I guess it is Los Angeles after all...but I couldn't help but to let out a little gasp, haha.

Alright, until then..you know who is out--- The Gomez.

No-Name Model.

2007-11-27T22:28:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,

Today was an almost unending day- anywho...

I've decided to post another figure drawing.

As always, critiques are always welcome :o)

The full image [above]

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Richard.

2007-11-25T15:47:00.001-08:00

This is a drawing I made several weeks ago:

Given the title, the model's name is Richard- so no, there is no new love interest with that name, haha. it felt good really taking my time into really emphasizing the detail in this work.

My two favorite areas in this specific drawing is his torso and his face. I had stumbled across the challenge of adding dimension to the drawing, and before working on this piece, Richard was a black and white mess-- and it didn't occur to me to use the beautiful paper as a means to add depth to the chair.

Ah ha!

He didn't look so flat afterwards-- anywho, my professor really likes it, and so do I..

Any feedback would be great :o)

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Bad movie, Black Friday, Feeding the Homeless.

2007-11-24T11:33:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving felt unbelievably lonely, haha. Although my family was there, it seems as if something is missing- as to what it is, I can't quite say, so maybe afterall nothing is missing?

Blah.

Anywho, on to Black Friday- America's manifestation of its extreme consumer culture packed into 4 a.m. shopping sprees- I would much rather sleep through it all. However, my cousin is a Black Friday virgin, and had never [to my amazement] heard of this fast growing pseudo-tradition. She also had plans of pulling an all-nighter so once we finish the shopping we'd go back to her house and sleep all day-weeeell, I had already pulled an all-nighter the previous night and I was just not up to shopping.
As my cousin went forth with the too-early-for-my-standards shopping, I slept in my friend's car..but I did join the frenzy at Target. People fighting over discount tv's, cameras, running back and forth between aisles, children could've died, people!!

I always seem to underestimate how frustrated I become with the rude, pushy people-- I'm never willing to participate if people are going to be assholes [pardon my language].
So I got my rest for the day yadda yadda and my cousin and I decide to go watch "The Mist." I did not read the novella or anything, but the movie was so tacky. Terrible. I won't expand on it, I guess you should watch it for yourself- the plot was just so out of control.. It is definitely not one of the best horror movies I've seen... no, no, no.

I saw two celebrities of which I did not know the names to either one of the guys, but that is my homework for the next blog, hahaha.

On a positive note, I went to help feed the homeless a very hearty meal, if you ask me- I was getting hungry myself... It's good to help people, you know?
It's that nice, warm, and fuzzy feeling kind-a thing.

Alrighty, I'm going to catch up on my ZzZz's, I am exhausted.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Happy Turkey Day

2007-11-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

Oh, the memories...

I hated making these hand turkeys as a kid, I felt they lacked so much creativity..so I remember tracing my hand like 3 times, I created the SUPER FEATHER'D ULTRA TUR-KAY!

It was ugly, but at least it was unique.

Anywho, I totally digressed from..

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE [to those who celebrate it!]

Round 2, Round 2!

2007-11-21T21:27:00.000-08:00

Talking to a very special someone reminded me how much I missed blogging, so yes I am back here for Round 2 [DING DING!]

The whole reason why I began blogging was because I rid myself of the ever consuming myspace habit--- However, zee myspace is back up due to my cousin's relentless quest to have me there again, so yes, it's back, but I'm back here too.

Good stuff to come, now that I'm trying [really] to really focus on my art, and possibly get some feedback from the art community.

That's it for now, I'm at the mercy of the dreadful Thanksgiving dinner.

Ah...

The Gomez is out.

P.S. Wow, I can't believe the stuff I used to write about, I'm all embarassed now that I put my bad writing in the limelight, haha.

It makes for good jokes, I suppose.

Okay okay, I'm really out.

Thank you, really...

2007-01-29T23:58:00.000-08:00

[before you guys go bitching, yes I took this from my myspace blog]
________________________________________________

Yes...(thank) you for teaching me to look to my inner self for strength, even when I felt like I had none- to not let people's judgement's get to the best of me- take everyone else's negativity and my own and make it into something productive- these are gifts I would would've not received/learned/what have you if you did not have to drill it in my head...and for that, I thank you.I always enjoyed your company, even if on the phone- whether or not you believe it...it was a thing of beauty really, insisting to sleep on the phone, haha, while you hummed yourself to sleep.At those times I was bogged down, and you brought and picked me up with your silly antics...and for that, I thank you again.I could go on for a bit just thanking you for the little things I observed...
But things are different now...I hear the frustration in your voice, and now things I say are stupid. I feel like I'm the one chasing you for a call, and when you do manage to call, it is 3 am, and you knock out immediately, while I talk to you about something... I'd rather not be called than talking to not be listened to. From the past, I learned to be tuned into language and body gestures...and since distance seems to be a problem, you'd think I wouldn't be able to tell that you lost interest?A while back, you said you weren't like "most guys"..and I thank you for teaching me that that is wrong. You can't just say something and expect me to believe you, for every "other" guy who's said so brought only disappointment.

This is when I truly believe that actions speak louder than any words...

Thank you for reminding me that I do not need to be in a relationship at this time. I have too many roles to be occupied with, and I just need time to finish until I move on. In my opinion, you are not ready either. I wouldn't dare say anything here, but I can always explain later.

So why myspace?Did you honestly think I'd want to do it here? No, of course not.However, I need to get this off my chest, so you may see it-- I can't stand you yelling at me whenever I feel the need to voice my opinions. You've shut me out far too many times, and I force myself to just act like nothing happened- but it's only a matter of time that little hassles amount to a big problem, and sadly it's come. This is not right-- when I feel fearful of telling you anything? This roulette-o-fear is a terror because anything I say could be a bullet that triggers your temper...this is not healthy- for you nor myself.
I've been honest to you, but when I tell you things and you insult me back with jealousy rages and hurtful words? That's like you spitting in my face, and I will not stand that kind of treatment. You said that you were joking, but what if I had pulled a similar "joke" on you? Pfsh, that would've been the end. I've dealt with this problem far too many times to take it any longer.
I'm not just blaming you- no..it is also my fault- I've done/said some stupid things, if I point the finger solely at you is just foolish...
After you abruptly hung up on me because you got angry for lulling myself to sleep, that was the moment I felt like I needed to take action. You said you'd tell me if you didn't want to talk to me- everything you do points in that direction, but you don't say a word...so here I am....and no, this is not for the whole world to see...so if you have anything to say in regards to this...You know what to do.
I won't just shut you out, nor will I totally blow off everything you say-
I wish you the very best of luck in everything you do.

Superstar: The Karen Carpenter Story

2006-11-20T19:47:00.001-08:00

Openly gay, experimental filmmaker Todd Haynes burst upon the scene two years after his graduation from Brown University with his now-infamous 43-minute cult treasure "Superstar: The Karen Carpenter Story" (1987). Seizing upon the inspired gimmick of using Barbie and Ken dolls to sympathetically recount the story of the pop star's death from anorexia, he spent months making miniature dishes, chairs, costumes, Kleenex and Ex-Lax boxes, and Carpenters' records to create the film's intricate, doll-size mise-en-scene. The result was both audacious and accomplished as the dolls seemingly ceased to be dolls leaving the audience weeping for the tragic singer.

Unfortunately, Richard Carpenter's enmity for the film (which made him look like a selfish jerk) led to the serving of a "cease and desist" order in 1989, and despite the director's offer "to only show the film in clinics and schools, with all money going to the Karen Carpenter memorial fund for anorexia research," "Superstar" remains buried, one of the few films in modern America that cannot be seen by the general public.

Now finally you have a chance to see this piece.

Eight Months...

2006-11-06T21:08:00.000-08:00

Eight months exactly to this day...I decided to look at some old posts, and see how much I've changed.

I've got updates too.

Well, you you remember reading way back when, I no longer have feelings for Tom*, nor have I really spoken to him since the end of classes. I saw him once or twice, and his immense love for his super nice girlfriend was something that I could do nothing but admire.

I envy her, I really do. Not for having Tom, but rather the fact that he loves her so much.

I'd love to love like that, and to be loved like that.

Like you, I am rolling my eyes at this moment! ah...

So yeah, Tom is out of my life---everything is just about the same.

"Coeurs Au Chocolat, Quel qu'un?"

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Twenty-Four Hour Lipstick and Whatnot.

2006-11-06T15:58:00.000-08:00

Before you head out to purchase your favorite tube of long-lasting lipstick- Buyer Beware.

We all have grown fond of our long-lasting, million-minute lipstick. Resistant to kisses, drinks, foods, et cetera...However, according to a recent study from Doctor Nahid Neman [Mt. Sinai Hospital, Toronto] reports that long-lasting lipstick contains a significant amount of lead.

I do not want to spread false information, but if my understanding is correct, the longer the lipstick lasts, the higher content of lead. Of course, lead in this form causes cancer. Therefore, the higher the lead content, the greater the chance of causing cancer.

You would think that you'd boycott the cheapy, no-name brands, for overlooking such a dangerous substance? Well, I suggest you save yourself some big-time money and start looking for lip stick at your local drug store, for it was the big-name brands that had the highest concentration of lead. The study also suggests that the lead is closely linked to breast cancer.

Some lipstick brands [of which you will recognize] that have lead content are as follows.

1. Yves Saint Laurent- YSL
2. Christian Dior
3. Lancôme
4. Clinique
5. Estée Lauder
6. Shiseido
7. Red Earth [Lip gloss]
8. Chanel [Lip conditioner]

Out of these 8, Yves Saint Laurent's brand was found to have the highest concentration of lead. The things we do and buy to attain picture-perfect looks...

----Beauty Kills----

...and how to find out if your favorite lipstick has lead? Put some lipstick on your hand. Using a gold ring to scratch on the lipstick, if the color starts to turn black, you've got a winner-err.... lead-based lipstick. Sad to say, but if you are as health-conscious as myself and have no desire to get cancer, I highly suggest you throw that lip stick out, find a similar color and apply more often.
I know we sacrifice many things out fo convenience, but when you're overall well-being is at stake? I'd much rather apply the lipstick 10 times a day, rather than deal with cancer in the future.
With that said, it is always up toy ou what you do with your own body.
The Gomez is out.

Letter to the PreZ.

2006-06-02T21:11:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. President,
It is a disgrace that your country faces a moral dispute. I speak for those who have no voice, risking their lives in order to give their loved ones a future they never lived. The new, young children of these immigrants began their lives in a foreign country, completely unaware of their lack of identity. Like them, I've learned your language & history, implemented your values, and learned to love this country- yet we've maintained our unique cultural identity, for your country was founded on the blood and suffering of many different peoples. As children we assumed rights just like everyone else. Early on, we learned that all people are equal, especially in your country. Land of the Free...However, to find at that [no] we are different and lack rights only disheartens us. It angers us how we suddenly lost our identity, and during these few months, we suddenly became inferior criminals. I am unprepared to go through a hiatus in my education, just because your country and its people refuse to accept me. After years of an effortless attempt to fit in a country we call our own, we find ourselves crawling back to associate with a society that seems to turn its back on us. It is indisputable that we always contributed to the well-being and culture of our second homeland.
Centuries ago, your ancestors came to this land full of promises and hope for change. The new generation of immigrants deserve that same desire to succeed.
This country will never live up to is name if you allow such hatred and racism to proliferate your people against those who years [ and might I add, DESERVE] a second chance.
Sincerely,
The New American Immigrant.

Oi, Immigration.

2006-05-30T21:41:00.000-07:00

Yea, it definitely is a racist issue. I read in some newspaper that cops would start detaining people according to their appearances. I mean, the odd are in my favor, I don't look Mexican...but how about all the countless American citizen indigenous-looking Mexicans? Must they face countless episodes of po-po intervention?
This is ridiculous.

I am out of here! ...and to France!

...or England...

point being, I am so sick of living in a place where I've no rights whatsoever!!!

Until then, The Gomez is out.

2006-05-20T20:49:00.000-07:00

New and Improved [to be continued].

2006-05-09T22:50:00.000-07:00

Yes, yes. I know. I have not posted anything up for a while. I have been way too busy to even come up with anything clever. I have yet to come up with something cheesy and thought provoking, so I thought I would post up some not-quite-finished-paintings. One original, and one not-so...I hope ya'll enjoy.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

[My own painting, taken from Caravaggio's great "Flagellation of Christ". 2006]

[detail of my father's portrait. 2006]

You're really awful!

2006-05-01T23:59:00.000-07:00

I hate you! Whoever you are.

How dare you send me such terrifying and tragic pictures.

...I did not expect to see XXXX's lifeless body.

You are cruel beyond words!

...and you disrespect the dead!

I am still in shock that I received her pictures in my e-mail.

In pieces, I was bawling in front of the computer.

Lame, I am- but my heart sank- she was my friend, and you knew that~

I HATE YOU!

until then, The Gomez is out. I need a tissue.

Plain Ole Day.

2006-04-26T20:49:00.000-07:00

[Escuela Hispana en el Condado de Orange. Fullerton, CA.2006]

I received my test scores. Pathetic. I think I should've actually studied. I feel like an idiot because I did STUPID MISTAKES! Dumb math.
I had a pleasant ride on the bus today though, I wasn't harassed too much or felt degraded by the Lollipop gang [that story to come soon].

Great, I just discovered that my little sister has just dedicated a spider to me. The little creature's name is Carla.
She HATES spiders.
I guess now I know how she feels about me- this is just as bad as when she comes up to you and sneezes at your face, releasing her disgusting mucous upon your make-up [as is always my case].
I don't know why the hell she does that.
It must be her autistic-silent boyfriend, for they share a common bond of silence.
Ah, children- please God, don't curse me with a batch of my own.
But I do like taking pictures of unsuspecting people on the bus.

'Cept for that guy on the left who did not want his picture taken- my stealth skills are alright.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Oh, have I said how MUCH I hate Bendy buses??? ugh.

Exams.

2006-04-23T22:00:00.000-07:00

They're the reason why I haven't posted anything juicy as of late. So 'til i finish up on these exams/projects- the posts will be menial.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Golden Spoon:Delicacy.

2006-04-19T21:13:00.000-07:00

I finally got to hang out with my cousin today. She had to run a few errands, and she took this opportunity to have me go along with her. It was nice. I miss those good ole days. We went around, and we both have been craving Golden Spoon for the longest time.
It is some of the best frozen yogurt I've had in ages.

Doesn't it look marvelous? It felt even better as the delicious taste of vanilla and boysenberry [yum] melted in my mouth. Ok, almost too sexual. Haha.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Photography Gone Wrong [but cool].

2006-04-18T21:10:00.000-07:00

Today, I was going to take pictures of my horrendous koi pond, so I could share with the whole world the horror on L.A. ponds. The pictures were really ugly, but I did not get the desired effect- so I will not be posting those.
The koi pond is set in front of my brother's place, so I decided to play spy and take pictures of him and his girlfriend in action.
That means he is playing Warcraft and she is sorting her Mary Kay stock, you sickos.
Since I know I am building up tension [not] here are the pictures:

The pictures look they're Photoshop-ed, but without Photoshop. Fantabulous.

Maybe I should be doing work like this.
Like my shirt??? It's from London :)

Until then, The Gomez is out.

It Sounds like a Good Plan.

2006-04-17T18:13:00.000-07:00

Well, a GREAT PLAN.
You would never expect it. I think I will move to London and open a Mexican restaurant.

Possitudely [Positive + Absolutely] Genius.

Gotta get those Londoners accustomed to spicy, good food. I little bird told me that people over there are all about "ethnic" food. What could be more ethnic than Mexican?! Come on.
Haha.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

El Papichis.

2006-04-14T18:38:00.000-07:00

Mon Pere [Incomplete. 2006]

Mon Pere,detail. [Incomplete, 2006.]

I have progressed alittle more on my father's portrait.
I hate it when I get worked up about a piece of mine and then it'll go through a LONG period of nothingness.
Bad artist's habit. Ugh.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Not a Perk.

2006-04-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

I really can not stand living in a religious household. Right now, I'm having to go through a stupid fast because God-knows-what is today.
I just want to dig into the shrimp....but my ole lady practically lives in the kitchen.
Ugh.
Hungry.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

NO!

2006-04-12T20:58:00.000-07:00

No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
No!
How can this be?!
I didn't know the Routemasters cease to exist!!!

No!!!!!!!! How am I supposed to have fun now!?!?!?!?!?

IM SO MAD!

fuming..................THE GOMEZ IS FUMING!

Canvas Backs.

2006-04-12T17:47:00.000-07:00

...are a really fun surface to entertain and express yourself, especially when you are sitting in a four-hour painting class. These doodlies are from high school [oh, so nostalgic] but i think I should get back to moving forward- I just haven't made a lot of noteworthy work as of late, because of Caw-lej and all the shit that goes along with a shitty school.
Anywho, yes the picture is small, but that is why you click on it....it SHOULD work.
Okey.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

I've Got Problems

2006-04-11T23:45:00.000-07:00

...with blogger right now! I have posted like two other posts, and they won't show up. I bet this one won't either.
What the fuck.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Scaley, Raspy...

2006-04-10T19:01:00.000-07:00

Disgusting voice-o-mine.

I sound like an elephant with lung cancer.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Oh boy!

2006-04-09T21:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, it IS my third post, but if you've read my past entries.. you'll know why I've spent my whole day at home. Anywho, I am excited because my best friend is coming for the week...or three days.

Woohoo!

Is she for a surprise...

I have burned a CD with Raghav songs.
He's a Canadian Indian hip hop kid with a flair of classical Indian beats. I like.

I totally love his style. Of dress, I mean.

Until then, The Gomez is out [for sure].

A Fantabulous Idea.

2006-04-09T13:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked the official beginning of my spring break. What a fucking joke this is- I begin it with an awful case of allergies. Therefore, I decided to catch up on my blog reading, and I came across a FANTABULOUS [fantastic + fabulous] website. Diamond Geezer is the name, and borough* exploring is his game for one day [out of every three months or so]. That made me want to go explore my own city.

But Rowland Heights??? There really isn't much.
It is not a large city, and all there really is to do is go-karting and going to Asian restaurants GA-Lore! Not that I dislike the food, cos I keep getting fat in the process---but I wish we had some historic buildings or SOMETHING!

See, for the blog above, London is a place of mystery, fun, and history. I LOVED it when I went there for the first time.

LOVED LONDON.

Anywho, Rowland Heights is not much of a site. We do have a lot of little plazas that boast overaffluence [Mercedes, BMWs, Vuitton purses, Gucci, etc] and at the same time sell the cheapy, one-dollar trinkets that I love.

Restaurants everywhere.

and one mall where you go if you want to see EVERY FUCKING person from Rowland and neighboring cities.

Oh my goodness, how can I be so stupid.....Rowland Heights isn't even a city! My godm thats right-that is why we borrow all the cops and fire stations, ambulances, etc....and to say that there is not one day that I do not hear that loud siren wailing up and down my busy street.
That is how it is .

I want to move, but at the same time-- I would terribly miss this place.

Until then, The Gomez is out.
________________________________
*boroughs: the only way I can explain boroughs [in an American perspective] is for example: Los Angeles County- there are parts like the San gabriel valley, Downtown LA, South Central, West Los Angeles, and so forth. Think of communities rather than individual cities or counties.

Ugh, Now I'm REALLY sick.

2006-04-08T12:08:00.000-07:00

Nothing, Really. [out of many Nothings]

2006-04-06T19:30:00.000-07:00

Poor Paloma remains sick. She is all pale.

I lucked out and got her to smile.

Yes, that is Sully from Monsters Inc.
Boy, I am getting fat.
...I need to lay off Mrs. Kang's cooking- but it's so good. My cheeks are like squirrel status!

Anywho, I made myself a healthy lunch, because for the longest time my mother refused to let me make my own food- but everyone else in the house eats red meat.

I have been trying to get rid of my meat-eating habits for good. So I settle for seafood [I could never let that go!] and tofu.
-TODAY'S MENU-

~ miso soup [yum!]
~ steamed rice with rice seasoning [seaweed and sesame seeds]
~ soy/maggi sauce marinated tofu with green onions and carrots
~ Jazmine tea! [ another yum]

Since I am the only one to actually eat tofu, I find myself eating alone most of the time.

However, it is nice when my sis-in-law is here. We gobble it all up.

Since she isn't here, Mr. Spider will eat the rest.

He's such a fatty. Look at him!

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Two New Projects [in the making].

2006-04-05T23:11:00.000-07:00

Dun dun dun dunnn!

You heard right people!

I have been trying to put my new [yay!] sketchbook to good use. I've really been trying to sketch something new for everyday. See, since I do not go to art school, I feel like I am losing my technique...and I've been feeling under the weather for the past few months which equals to zero productivity and creativity.

Back to the sketch, I am apalled by the horrors of war:

I took this image from [ I think......] National Geographic. This young man's scars are a painful and aesthetically unpleasing reminder of the cruelty of mankind. In this instance, I speak of the ongoing wars and genocides all over the world.

It is STILL in the making, as you can tell...but I was so excited that I made something that I had to post it.

Speaking of which...I also have a new painting....IT'S SO NOT DONE!

So, I would appreciate it if you didn't email/comment me on how incomplete it is.

I know it is!

This is my father, yo.

If he finds out that I posted this [incomplete, yikes] piece, I will cease to exist.

...not a bad start right?

Until then, The Gomez is out.

The Adventures of Chikin Boy.

2006-04-04T19:20:00.000-07:00

Agh, this was done before I realized that Chicken Fil-A had spelled chicken- "chikin"
...and I thought I was being original.

[online sigh]

This is Chikin Boy! A wee little shitlin, three years of age- he finds extreme fun in his chicken suit....ahem...."Chikin" suit. Can't you tell, he has that glow in his eye...
He puts on his chikin helmet. Uh-Oh! He can not see! Oh wee little boy of three, do not trip!

It was inevitable.

...and that was Chikin Boy.

Not much of an adventure.
but I tried, really.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Season's a Changin'.

2006-04-03T20:34:00.000-07:00

Ah, I hate daylight savings time. How can some states participate in this and others not? How does that work out.
Ignorant question yes, but a good one to ask nonetheless.
...However, I will say it is a lot nicer now that i can go on my 7 pm walks AND it's still bright outside.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Just a Ramble.

2006-04-02T19:03:00.000-07:00

Casi Maria.

2006-04-02T13:43:00.000-07:00

This is my sketch left untitled. See the sketch on the middle-right, where it looks as if I had little rays of light coming from my hair? Well, due to that one sketch, I was going to due a piece making myself look like the virgin Mary. However, I was in no place to stir up controversy for myself. I had way too much drama from other places.

If I had continued to keep working on the religious piece, I would've made some funky title like "Casi Maria" [almost Mary].

Imagine the drama?

Hm...Well, it just didn't happen. At the same time, my illustration teacher assigned a self-portrait type of work.

Thank goodness I had the sketches above, for I had something to start on: my final piece can be seen here.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Introducing...Part II

2006-04-02T13:09:00.000-07:00

Okey, now for some more sketches from ye old sketchbook:
During my high school years, I was amazed at young girls' dependency on make up, as I myself wore make up evvvvvery day. Even more incredible was how older women looked with and without make up and their insatiable thirst for an unattainable beauty. Yay for wrinkles! This piece was a picture taken from an old close-up painting of a foundation bottle [yes, make-up] that was stolen from my very own locker.
The woman to the right is a willing participant in the beauty race. I exaggerated her sagging face and body. Who could it be? I have no idea- but some people say it resembled my old French teacher. Oh no, I wouldn't do such a thing...
Since I spent a lot of my time on the streets, I became a scavenger for junk. Yes, junk. One time while in Los Angeles, I found a few papers of inexplicable writings. Poems, I suppose- but they made no sense. At the same time, I had this awful crush on a dude who wouldn't even turn to see me [haha] and the poems I found had something to do with love. Oh, I wasn't in love or anything!! ...and yes, its meant to be upside-down, and the writing is not supposed to make sense. At least, it didn't to me. Lets see...
Oh, I also spent a lot of time on the bus...but it wasn't until the last few weeks of high school that the idea of drawing people sleeping dawned upon me. So, here is one of the few sketches I had of sleeping-bus-people. This magical lady is my Lola Camion [Tagalog-Spanish for "Bus grandmother" she asked me to call her that!]
Man, I look back on all these sketches, and they do not seem so amazing as i thought they were way back when...and it's only been less than three years.

Introducing...Part I

2006-04-01T21:38:00.000-08:00

My decrepit sketchbook's cover. [click image to enlarge]

Introducing my sketchbook. May that piece of shit rest in piece, because it is evident that it went through some rough handling, haha. That thing is my best friend- holding inside one of my best drawings.[at the time-when I was in high school...] Yes, the stickers do spell out "Good Sex, mmm..." It used to have another one that said "Fuck Love" on the side...but all that remains of those high school days is "_uck"

I have a few sketches to show, so I hope you all enjoy:

A lot of my paintings were life drawing studies- since I took an illustration class for most of my time at high school, my teacher wanted us to perfect drawing from a photograph-

eventually, we got to move on to real-life models [yes, during high school...] The one pictured on the right was from a book- I think probably a few artists will recognize the woman. I know I do, haha. However, it always puzzled me as to why girls couldn't draw dudes and vice versa. I still find myself very confused drawing men, even if they are standing naked in front of me. They always end up looking like women without boobs and angular faces.

Or...could it be that men truly are women with an extension cord, breastless chests, and angular faces? Blah.

I also had an obsession with distorting outrageously beautiful people. For example, Catherine Deneuve [ I am so fucking jealous of her, she's gorgeous AND French]...I had to make her look like she lost 534098 pounds and her eyes expanded to 534098 times their original size. I thought it would've been nice to draw a body- but I just never did it.

The page ended there.

Then, there were the pieces that carried onto amazing canvas works. "La Esencia" [meaning "The Essence" in Spanish] took shape after I had an awful bout of depression [oh, artists.] and and body dysmorphic disorder. I will explain that at another time. Anywho, the sketch came out really well- I put alot of detail into making it good. I will post pictures of the final product once i get it out of storage. I do not go through so much depression now, but I think body dysmorphic disorder is something else to overcome.

It still comes to me at times...especially right now.

Ay.

As said before, click on the pictures to enlarge.

Until then , The Gomez is out.

Oh My!

2006-04-01T17:19:00.000-08:00

Isn't this incredible? I can't believe that another version of the Mona Lisa still hangs in Florence Italy. Titled, "Mater Lacrimosa" she truly looks like she will cry.

Haha.

April Fool's, dudes.

Did I...

2006-04-01T00:27:00.000-08:00

tell you what a great movie "Crash" is?
Yea, I recommend it.

Ok, sorry but I still have no camera- the doodles won't be in for a bit. Maybe on Sunday.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

I really really [REALLY] Dislike...

2006-03-30T18:16:00.000-08:00

When [at social gatherings] the table behind you is talking all this shit about you.
...and half of those people either don't know you or barely know you.
...and they judge you according to what the stupid gossiping bitches say.
That makes you not only the bitche's accomplice, but narrow minded.

I have learned to not always believe what people say about others, ESPECIALLY when I do not know the person being trashed.

It's just not right.

Michael Brewer's illustration to the right just explains it perfectly without words. People are so blind to believing shit talk, that they just give you ugly looks.

...and you know that they're being idiots.

Last week, I went to an anniversary party, only to experience the worst kind of treatment.

SHIT TALK! UGH! Speak of the Evil Eye, my poor soon-to-be sister-in-law and I had to endure horrific glares from the table behind ours.

Unfortunately, I was consumed with hatred and discomfort, and that did not make sis feel any better.

I feel really awful for that, but UGH!

I just want to say Fuck all of you who had to steep so low as to give ME and my gorgeous sister-in-law fuckugly glares!!!

[I would be angrier...but it just does not look write in print]

Until then, The Gomez is out- and don't talk shit!

Aw.

2006-03-29T22:48:00.000-08:00

My grandmother leaves for Mexico at midnight. I love her so so so so much. However...

Yay!

She gave me twenty bucks to buy chocolatito[chocolate for all ya'll non-Spanish speakers].

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Sketch Epiphany

2006-03-29T20:33:00.000-08:00

Take one excruciantingly boring class. I have a pen, and MANY an opinion. What do I do? I sketch, of course. I have been doing it for more than a decade [haha, I can say that now] and habits die hard. Sketching got me in trouble all throughout my elementary school years, when I heavily relied on the power of imagination and one good pen. That would not smudge. Of course those pens were hard to come by, but I did not quit sketching. Eventually, the sketches got better, and I transitioned to more realistic drawings...from there, I found myself in an arts high school where I had the amazing chance to perfect my technique.

Years later, I found myself sketching away on my magnificent advertising notebook....not realizing how long I have been sketching. In times of sadness, happiness, retrospect, or just plain normalcy- I relied upon my hands to deliver images that I imagined.

Be it an anti-fast food campaign or an obsession with a Japanese juice-drink mascot, I pledge to have my sketchbook ready and plentiful of fresh drawings for the World to see.

I wonder if they're ready.

I'm ready.

I love how I can not work blogger to organize my pictures in a good, consistent manner.

Ay, tecnologia.

NO, I don't think so.

2006-03-28T22:35:00.000-08:00

As far as my art conscious goes- this is the last straw. I can see how anything can just become art, [as has been the idea for the past decade] but this is ridiculous. A pregnant Britney Spears giving birth on a bear rug is NOT art. It does not really resemble Mrs. Federline [which is the least of my concerns] and well... who would waste their talent on someone who lacks it??? Ironically, this piece is pro-life, and people already construed ultra-opinionated remarks about this piece.

Hell, I don't have the picture of the fucking sculpture. Google it.

Love it or Hate it, I've decided to place myself on the latter party.

What a disgrace to artists.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

V for Victory, not Vendetta.

2006-03-28T12:32:00.000-08:00

The protests and walk outs were a success. Thank you to the hundreds of thousands of people for rallying for what could have been a disastrous bill. Late last night, a group of senators passed legislation that would give undocumented immigrants an opportunity to access a legal citizenship.
This is huge.
We are talking about millions of immigrants--they will finally have a chance to raise [not only their native country's flag, but also...] the American flag in pride.
You can find the rest of the article here.

However, this does not mean that the war is over. This is just one small battle we have overcome.
Hang on you guys, people will fight desperately to keep us away from this country.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

It is nationwide.

2006-03-27T22:34:00.000-08:00

In the wake of Sensenbrenner's [R-WI] wrath, I am amazed at the power of people to unite for a cause, and raise awareness under one voice. I am talking about the nationwide opposition to Senate Bill HR 4437, meant to implement severe punishments upon undocumented immigrants. Called the Border Protection, Antiterrorism, and Illegal Immigration Control Act of 2005, this bill has nothing to do with anti-terrorism- this is a race issue. An unsparing Sensenbrenner passionately [and fearlessly] dictates on his opposition to immigrants- mind you, this country was founded on IMMIGRANTS. His ancestors are most likely not natives of the United States. I have said this once, and I will say this once again:

If immigrants of times past had the right to start their life anew, don't the immigrants of this generation have an equal opportunity?

According to Sensenbrenner, Jim Gilchrist, and his fascist Minutemen organization, immigrants have no rights nor a voice.

Despite his crumbling approval rating, PreZ Bush finally succumbed to the fact that, YES, undocumented peoples do take jobs that Americans will just not do and that immigrants are a valuable source for the American economy [finally, something smart]. He continued to say that he plans to grant working visas to undocumented immigrants. However, I do find one blistering fault in his new proposal. These 6-year working visas are in no way helpful towards accessing a residency. This is ridiculous. How can you be offering jobs but distancing your very own "employees"?! That is unethical and imposes a great amount of exploitation on undocumented workers. You wouldn't want to post a sign saying "Help Wanted/Back OFF!" at the same, right?
Well PreZ, you better think of a better solution.

Back to the nationwide protests, it brought a tear to my eye that so many people supported the rights of immigrants. These people are fighting for their families, employees, and classmates. The activists certainly do not want their loved ones and friends to leave this country due to a preposterous bill in a coned, white-cloth mask. HR 4437 is fueled by the blood of racist politicians who have nothing better to do than implement fear on those who know no better, which is why I was so relieved to know that so many vehemently oppose this bill. Cities all over rallied to city halls, the media provided little media coverage, and schools walked out [knowing that they faced truancies, multiple-day suspensions, and even losing graduation privileges!] Students walked out of their schools, jumped fences, held their country's flags, walked 20+ miles to Los Angeles, and even walked on the freeways! [highways for everyone else in the U.S.]Out here in Orange County, a boy from Santa Ana was killed [got run over]. His conviction to stand for rights not-quite available cost him his life and God Bless his soul for the power to voice out is amazing.
You know that you yourself know someone who is undocumented. I bet he/she is not a bad person- do they not deserve the same rights and privileges as you?

I'd like to thank the cities all over for this victory in Unity.
Until then, The Gomez is out.

Do Not Watch.

2006-03-26T00:33:00.000-08:00

Oh my Gosh, do NOT watch "The Hills have Eyes"

It is so incredibly stupid.

...and predictable.

The bloody scenes were somewhat worthwhile...but not enough when my student-discount-eight-dollars-and-fifty-cents comes into account.

I have not been blogging much lately, and I must apologize- I have been studying for exams...you know how that is.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

oh, and I promise better entries for the future.

Peter Mania:Audio. Part One.

2006-03-18T23:55:00.000-08:00

Mouth Monger?

2006-03-17T16:47:00.000-08:00

To Intervene with Ancient Cultural Functions.

2006-03-15T00:01:00.000-08:00

...and once again:

Culture/Parental Presure- 1

Americanism/Rebellion- 0

In what way you ask?

Well, I was talking to my best friend Michi, and she had shocking news.

Her older sister agreed to have an arranged marriage. Her older, will-not-shave-because-she's-a-feminist-pink-converse-wearing-elastica-hearing-must-not-fall-into-typical-northern-Indian-culture sister. This boisterous, rude, [to her sister]outspoken, but clever woman decided to give in to her parent's desires and go along with an arranged marriage.

This turn of events put Michi into a wary state of awareness- her sister had been pressured for years on end to get married- year after year, "You are getting too old to find a suitable husband."

Michi is next on the list of Bachelorettes.

Too bad that she has a [non-Indian] boyfriend, and she has no plans to marry any time soon. AT ALL. In fact, I truly hope her current boyfriend is "the one." He is just perfect for her, they share the same values and he is so fucking cute. Two peas in a pod.

I know that as a student all for cultural preservation, I would encourage Michi to stick to her cultural roots[and her parent's best interests]. However, Michi is an American-and she is well-assimilated into this society that an arranged marriage simply does not make sense. She is too much of a dreamer, dependent of love- so much so that forcing love upon a man who I know she will not find attractive [in any aspect] would crush her emotionally. A Sikh would probably look at me as if I were crazy- but I must argue that the functions of an Indian arranged marriage do not [and will not] suit Michi in any form, and as her best friend, I am partially responsible for her well-being- so all I've got to say is that she is free to marry whomever she wants.

I just hope that she does not feel pressured into the same trap that her sister swore not to fall in years ago.

So, Please.

2006-03-12T20:43:00.000-08:00

Help the current victims of Hurricane Katrina. Once and again, we are presented with FEMA's [and ultimately, Bush's] incompetence in dealing with natural disasters in our own country. I strongly feel that a country's way of managing the well being of its citizens nationally mirrors the country's ways to protect its citizens from abroad. In this, I mean the war in Iraq, founded on fallacies and a crumbling idea: oil. I came up upon a website, Color of Change, and I was amazed at what people can do in a time of disaster. It has been 6 (+) months since Katrina, and all I ever hear/read/see is people suffering.

We must not let this continue.

So once again, check Color of Change

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Confirmation.

2006-03-08T22:42:00.000-08:00

{Son Risa-S2, 2006. Digital.}

I am still kinda sad. I mean, liking someone you barely met, but they made such an impact on you. It is a beautiful feeling. Everything seems right, and ah....Your lungs fill up with air, the adrenaline's pumping, and you feel like screaming:

" WHAT A BEAUTIFUL DAAAAYYYY"

It's those kinds of days that I live for. I've never had the opportunity to yell something like that, but I would have been nice. I should just wait this out....but he is so a-m-a-z-i-n-g.

I should look for his faults- and i can already rule out several...so I can start from there.

...it just seems so difficult to do so when you have not developed feelings for anyone in a LONG time, so you see this opportunity, but it smacks you right back in the face.

I have my friends so that is all good.

Oh, because you won't understand the picture above--my friend took my picture, and I was laughing about his stupid jokes and he just happened to take the picture at the wrong time, but he captured the pure essence of my laughter.

Why Must the Birds Change their Tune?

2006-03-06T20:09:00.000-08:00

Ah...Must I repeat my title? I hope not. To think that I went through all this planning, and now it's come to ruin. Okay, well not that terrible of an event, but I feel like my heart is crushed---somewhat.

My image posted on the right was taken last night. Titled, "Relief," I thought of the most beautiful, romantic things in life. I was relieved [and at the same time excited] that I found someone of interests, who shared my love of art. I had decided to take the reigns if I was going to start this relationship. I felt confident, fresh, in complete peace. Ah, relief.Yes.I will explain all these vague thoughts.

It began on the first day of Spring semester, and I was in one of my classes. My eyes fell upon this fellow, and at first I did not notice anything about him...except for his mouth. He had lovely lips- a beautiful, concentrated heart shape that I had never seen before. I look down, and oh my--- he was drawing. An artist! Wow. 2 kudos points for this guy. Haha. Anywho- I am veeery shy [being an artist, you know...] and it took me about 6 weeks for me to say anything to this guy. I've been talking to him for the past two weeks, and he seems amazing. So warm, with a great sense of humor, and a mesmerizing mouth. I am a sucker for mouths! Anyway, I was looking up museums- for I thought he would like to accompany me to a very ineteresting exhibit at MOCA [Museum of Contemporary Art] relating to Comic Book art from the mid-20th century. It would be a nice way to start a friendship, and maybe even more...

However, my plan came to ruin when it came to my class this Monday morning. I was in his group discussing a class project, when a guy blurts out some vague comment about models, and Tom* says, "Well...you know I'm single..." and I noticed that he was taking off this silver ring.

That was all it took. Not only is he not single, but I am pretty sure he is serious about her, considering the importance of the ring. Ay...

Seems that Mr. Right was not where I was looking.

...but- I could try and build a friendship from here.

You never know.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

A Favorite.

2006-03-05T12:01:00.000-08:00

[ Shostakovich, Dmitri. 1906-1975.]

One of my favorite composers all time, Dmitri Shostakovich's music always gives me goosebumps.

Seriously.

One of my favorite pieces, String Quartet No. 8 is one of the most autobiographical and touching pieces of this fascinating man. At the brink of suicide, this piece musically conveys the suffering of man. No. 8 also speaks against the terrors of war, for he lived to witness one of the worst tragedies in history, the rise of Nazi Germany.
However, he did manage to live to Germany's demise, but his music still reflects a pain so tangible, that many composers after him have difficulty to reproduce.

That is why Shostakovich's music is so beautiful and colorful, but at the same time inflicts such pain and suffering.

If you are dealing with a big break up, I definitely do not recomment No. 8. I'd rather have you wait.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Abuelita Linda.

2006-03-04T21:12:00.000-08:00

Isn't she so beautiful?
At least I definitely think so. This is my grandmother, Pita. Of course, that is my nickname for her- and weeeelll....that name stuck ever since. This picture was taken at my sister's party earlier today.
I know she doesn't look her best [trust me, she's so gorgeous--too bad I did not inherit her beauty!] but that was the look I was looking for. The real Pita, wrinkles and all.
She has lived through so much- the death of a loving husband and a son my father considered as a best friend- and she is still standing today. She always comments on how she can't believe she is still living.
Sadly, she's been wanting to leave planet Earth.
Honestly, I don't know how I would react the day she will leave us. I'd rather not think about it.

Until then, The Gomez is out.

Presenting:Daniela's Birthday

2006-03-04T14:56:00.000-08:00

My Thoughts on an 8 year-old's Party.

2006-03-03T22:29:00.000-08:00

...of Yellow Haciendas and Orchids.

2006-03-01T21:24:00.000-08:00

I had a dream...and no, a beautifully stated passage about an era where racial equality reigns will not follow.

Ahem.

Anywho-yes- I had a dream where my mother had arranged a party. I would be guessing it was for her church group, for they always have gatherings. It's such a cult!

The party took place in this energetic-looking, Spanish style hacienda mansion. It smelled of roses and dried chiles, a smell so exact that I was confused when I saw orchids and tangerine trees instead. The inside of the mansion was so beautiful- stained glass was everywhere, with a pattern of grapes and grapevines all over, and the walls were painted a beautiful, high saturated ochre color. I wore this amazing white, frilly dress that did not stain--even though I was rolling in the soft,green hills. This was truly a dream. I saw 8 foot tall Friesian horses galloping away in their independence. Majestic. Then my mother yells:

"DON'T YOU DARE WANDER INSIDE THE HOUSE! YOU WILL GET LOST!"

Ah, to hell with it.

So I explored the house, touched the antiquities, tried on the old-fashioned clothes. As I reveled in the pre-industrial fashions, I heard an extremely low, extremely sexy voice coming from one of the 36 (? just about) rooms. I kept following the voice, but I felt like I was going in circles. Finally, through weirdways and nowhere-ways, I found a man dressed in this blue, elegant costume. I am talking pre-California-mission style. He seemed to be from Elizabethan times, with the frilly (ah, frills frills frills) chest thingie, and gold buttons galore. He looked at me with such a gaze of grace, and i took a sigh of relief.

Poof! He was gone! I HAD to find this man!

I heard his voice, so I followed his voice...and once again- this way , that way, I was getting nowhere.
I open the creepiest looking door, and I thought I had found him but...

...to my surprise, it was a dog made from those balloons [you know, the ones they make at parties?] and in an instant he was right in front of me, made a funny sound like: "Oogalaboogala"
and bada-bing bada-boom, he popped!

Fuck, I sure did wake up.

It was creepy!

Any dream interpreters know what a balloon animal with a sexy voice means/describes?

Until then, The Gomez is out.

LiKi. Yay! "Meow."

2006-03-01T12:32:00.000-08:00

Oh No!

2006-02-28T18:26:00.000-08:00

Oh no she didn't!
This is such a disgrace!!! I could not believe that Oprah could do this to us!

Well... she is the world's representative for an American woman- but this can not be!
How could you let Bush kiss your cheek???

That's it. I am never watching your shows once again!
Well, I never watch it anyway.
Hmm... I guess this is really the downfall of the Harpo Empire. You control too much!
But I can't help to admire how much power you have to influence women all over. You are truely envied.
Until then, The Gomez is out.

Presenting Daniela-la-Destructo.

2006-02-27T21:51:00.000-08:00

Last Rant about Myspace. Promise!

2006-02-27T16:34:00.000-08:00

Sliver of Hope?

2006-02-26T20:09:00.000-08:00

This may be a bit late, but I must comment:
Thank you. Finally someone in this government has realized the impact of immigrants on this society and country[mind you, founded by immigrants]. I am talking about the McCain-Kennedy Immigration Reform, and well [first] as a Californian and non-citizen, I can see the benefits. To my dismay, I know that more immigrant workers live through labor exploitation, fear of deportation, and discrimination. I must agree with Fair Immigration Reform M [FIRM] organizer Deepak Bhargava, who states,"No longer can the federal government defend the status quo of an immigration system which exploits hard working immigrants while breaking their dreams and dignity everyday...America deserves an immigration system that reflects our values of fairness and equality."
I found a website that, although anti-immigrant, contains alot of information about McCain and Kennedy's reform proposition. You can see the site here : http://cayankee.blogs.com/cayankee/2005/05/mccainkennedy_i.html
The act named the 2005 Secure America and Orderly Immigration Act proposes to:

Allow illegal immigrants to apply for temporary work permits that could last for six years. They would have to clear criminal background checks, pass an English language test and pay a $2,000 fee to qualify.

At the end of the six years, they and their families could apply for permanent resident status, and five years later for citizenship.

Also allow foreign citizens to apply for low-paid jobs that Americans do not want to do from outside the country. If the worker lost his job, he would have 60 days to find a new one or return home.

In the site posted above, the author says that the act is disguised as an amnesty. In my opinion, amnesty never did anything but help. True, American taxpayers face the consequences of paying for illegal immigrants to receive "X" benefits- but they also pay for frauds within their own government system led by high-ranking men and women. However, this act seems to help the American economy.

Think about it. For example, the Mexican immigrant worker: he works extremely hard every single day [or at least 6 days out of the week], and then where does his money go? American economy- or, he sends the remaining to his family. Down in Mexico- where does THAT money go? American economy too. These families now have access to stores like Walmart and warehouse stores that in turn benefits the U.S. economy[profit].
Since the rise of stores like these, Mexican families are rushing to get American products.

Anywho, the immigration act differs GREATLY from the Real ID act. The latter equates immigrants to terrorists, when this isn't even the case! We are not terrorists. We are people seeking the "American dream."
But what IS this American dream??? Apparently, this dream is restricted to immigrants from only 200 years ago. Just because we seek citizenship at a time that seems [frustratingly] impossible, have we no right to hope? To hope that one day we stop facing discrimination in the workforce [for those who luckily have a job], to hope to give our children a future many of us will never experience.

I hope you read this with an open mind, for I believe that the immigrants have now become the backbone of the American economy.

I Can't Escape It!

2006-02-26T12:13:00.000-08:00

Gahhhhhhhh!!!! Now I know it's War. I got like 543897 messages [slightly exaggerated] from so-called friends, they all wrote just about the same thing:
"CARLAAAAAAAA~~~NOOOOOOOOOOO-!!!
WHY ARE YOU DELETING MYSPACE?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!
NOW I CAN'T TALK TO YOU AND STUFF--
OMG AND WE WERE SUPPOSED TO HANG OUT"

Ok, dudes. First of all, its called a fucking phone!
...did that ever come to mind? I personally think a phone is a better form of communicatiing rather than a stupid comment on myspace.
I don't even hang out with most of ya'll! So if you really wanted to hang out, you should've called me.
Don't have my number??
YOU SHOULD ASK!

Convenience, convenience, convenience.

Damn myspace, makes it all too easy.

Vegan Lunch Box

2006-02-25T22:17:00.000-08:00

Vegan Lunch Box

Ah, Valentina

2006-02-25T16:35:00.000-08:00

I received a phone call from my aunt Erika down in Mexico telling me that my little cousin, Valentina will be attending Japanese school. Erika also added to say that the little shitlin won't stop talking about me.
What?!
When I was living in Mexico, that kid hated me.
Now, according to Erika-- I am her idol. Awww.
I have never been anyone's hero- and it feels good to be one. Even though I am thousands of miles away, I felt like shedding a tear. Rarely in this household do I get to feel things like this. Refreshing.
Well, now I have something to look forward to.
Valentina's excited to speak to me in Japanese. I am too. It's all she ever talks about. :)

First Blog.

2006-02-25T13:40:00.000-08:00

Will be short- but, I am happy to know that I've quit on myspace.
Good riddance!