The Wife-An Award-Winning Movie about Writing and Writers

We saw this movie on Netflix just recently. We enjoyed the movie so much as it reminded me of my article in my blog wondering if good writers are born or made. **(https://myarticlesfromviewshound.blogspot.com/search?q=born+writers, 12/11))

One sentiment in the movie that all writers should know: No matter how good or accomplished is your writing, if no one reads it, it will just rot in the book shelves.

Here's the trailer:

https://youtu.be/d81IM0loH7o

If you have not seen it, it will be worth your time. Here's what Wikipedia says:

The Wife is a 2017 drama film directed by Bjõrn L. Runge and written by Jane Anderson. It is based on the novel of the same name by Meg Wolitzer. It stars Glenn Close, Jonathan Pryce, and Christian Slater. The story follows a woman who questions her life choices as she travels to Stockholm with her narcissistic husband, who is set to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature.

The film premiered on September 12, 2017, at the 2017 Toronto International Film Festival, and was released in the United States on August 17, 2018 by Sony Pictures Classics. It received generally positive reviews from critics, with Close's performance garnering high praise. Close won the Golden Globe Award, Screen Actors Guild Award and Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Actress for her performance, and was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress and the BAFTA Award for Best Actress.

**Excerpts from my article on my blog about writers( born or made) and writing:

Most writers that I know write because they love writing. To them writing is just like breathing. These born writers do not work hard to create an excellent article, because their writing comes from the heart and their soul. Others write with a lot of work, training and pain. Good writers run in the family as exemplified by the family of Stephen King. Most writers however are made and only become good writers through hard work and constant practice. The most common traits of good writers are patience and persistence, whether their writing talent is inborn or just developed.

Allow me to quote Jan Bird from her recent article, The Writing Bug. "Writing for me right now, is like love. It isn't something I do, it happens to me. It takes me completely by surprise when I least expect it and then it absolutely refuses to let go until it wants to. It's intoxicating and irrational".

The Days Prior to Our 62nd Wedding Anniversary

Macrine enjoying a beautiful spring day in our patio-April 26, 2019

This coming May 8 ( a Wednesday-work day) will be exactly 62 years when Macrine and I got married in the Philippines. Two weeks ago, I had planned a get-together of relatives, friends and neighbors to join us in this memorable event in our life. Because May 8 is a work day, I asked our relatives and friends of two possible days that may be convenient for the majority. At first, I decided on May 12. With a few exceptions all of my future guests responded they will not be able to attend since it is Mother's Day. So I decided that May 5* ( Cinco de Mayo-big Mexican-American Festivities) is the day. As of this writing date, only ten are planning to attend.

The other day, I also received some bad news from the Philippines. Macrine's sister, Sister Guia( Cenacle) is seriously ill. Macrine's two other sisters here in the US are going home to the Philippines to be by her side on her last days of life.

I am a little bit disappointed that only half of my invited guests are coming. Macrine and I will celebrate our 62nd wedding anniversary with honey-baked ham, Pancit, Kare-kare and a few other Pinoy dishes. I have ordered the cake from our local French Pastry Shoppe. It is an orange-chiffon cake decorated with fresh fruits. The orange-chiffon cake was a significant item and was a catalyst in our May 8, 1957 marriage( sixty two years ago) as discussed in my autobiography (https://davidbkatague.blogspot.com/2013/05/today-is-our-56th-wedding-anniversary.html).

The following five photos: Our Wedding Day, 25th Wedding Anniversary, 50th Wedding Anniversary, 55th wedding anniversary and 60th wedding anniversary.

Wedding Day, Boac, Marinduque, Philippines, May 8,1957

Silver Wedding Anniversary, Pinole, California,USA, May 8,1982

Golden Wedding Anniversary, Boac, Marinduque, May 8, 2007

Macrine and I, May 8, 2012.-Our 55th Wedding Anniversary-Fair Oaks, California

Our 60th Wedding Anniversary-May 8, 2017

*https://davidbkatague.blogspot.com/2013/05/cinco-de-mayo-celebration-and-sales.html

Fears of Retirement

Last week, one of my FB friends and Macrine's relative posted a big headline on her page that Preparing for Retirement is Not for Sissies. Her posting reminded me of my own retirement fears seventeen years ago.

I retired from the Food and Drug Administration in 2002 when I was 68 years old. Prior to my retirement my plan was to retire three years before( when I turned 65). However, at that time I had feared that retirement will ruined me financially. Retirement will make me feel useless and that my Social Security will not be enough. I also feared that I will miss the social and intellectual interaction of my colleagues and coworkers.

However, one month after my retirement all the above fears disappeared. How did I do it? I followed the suggestion in the article below. If you are in the process or near retirement, the following article is a must read.

https://www.newretirement.com/retirement/the-3-greatest-retirement-fears-and-how-to-feel-more-confident-about-them/

Fearing retirement is a normal reaction, although it will change your lifestyles. Enjoy your retirement years dear friends and relatives!

Have You Heard of Manila, Arkansas or California?

Manila, California
I believe a majority of Filipinos or Filipino-Americans have never heard of the two towns above. I did not know about these two towns until just recently, when one of my friends in the Philippines mentioned that he has a relative in Manila, California. So I went to Google and here's what I found.

Manila, California is a census-designated place in Humboldt County. It is located 3.25 miles (5.2 km) north of downtown Eureka, at an elevation of 13 feet (4 m). The ZIP Code is 95521. The population was 784 at the 2010 census. The town was founded at the end of World War II, and named after Manila in the Philippines.

The 2010 United States Census reported that Manila had a population of 784. The racial makeup of Manila was 686 White, 14 African American, 25 Native American, 5 Asian, 12 from other races, and 42 from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 30 persons.

Manila, Arkansas

There is another town called Manila in Arkansas. The original name of this town was "Cindy". There was a WWII war hero who hailed from the town of Cindy. He was serving in Manila, Philippines when he won a purple heart and saved his whole platoon. His town, Cindy, was so proud of him they renamed the city after the city in which he became a war hero, Manila, Philippines. There is also a life-sized statue of him on the corner of the highway and the business district that happens to be the smallest state park in the State of Arkansas. The population was 3,055 at the 2000 census. It was the hometown of World War I sniper Herman Davis. A park in the town honors his memory today. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.2 square miles (8.4 km²), all of it land.

Interesting indeed!

Are You Aging Gracefully?

I received this e-mail today. I do not know the author, but has been circulating in the Web. I can identify with the sentiments of this article. If you are retired this is a must read for you. If not passed it on to your older friends and relatives. An encouraging suggestion.....to share. Many people feel unhappy, health-wise and security-wise, after 60 years of age. Or 70! Or 75! Or whatever is your age now! Life can begin now, it is all in your hands! Many people feel unhappy, health-wise and security-wise, owing to the diminishing importance given to them and their opinions. But, it need not be so, if only we understand the basic principles of life and follow them. Here are ten encouraging thoughts to age gracefully and make life after retirement pleasant.

1. Never say I am ‘aged': There are three ages, chronological, biological, and psychological. The first is calculated based on our date of birth; the second is determined by the health conditions; the third is how old we feel we are. While we don't have control over the first, we can take care of our health with good diet, exercise and a cheerful attitude. A positive attitude and optimistic thinking can reverse the third age.

2. Health is wealth: If you really love your kith and kin, taking care of your health should be your priority. Thus, you will not be a burden to them. Have an annual health check-up and take the prescribed medicines regularly. Do take health insurance coverage.

3. Money is important: Money is essential for meeting the basic necessities of life, keeping good health and earning family respect and security. Don't spend beyond your means even for your children. You have lived for them all through. If your children are grateful and they will take care of you, you are blessed. But, never take it for granted.

4. Relaxation and recreation: The most relaxing and recreating forces are a healthy religious attitude, good sleep, music and laughter. Have faith in God, learn to sleep well, love good music and see the funny side of life.

5. Time is precious: It is almost like holding a horses' reins. When they are in your hands, you can control them. Imagine that every day you are born again. Yesterday is a cancelled check. Tomorrow is a promissory note. Today is ready cash - use it profitably. Live this moment; live it fully, now, in the present time.

6. Change is the only permanent thing: We should accept change - it is inevitable. The only way to make sense out of change is to join in the dance. Change has brought about many pleasant things. We should be happy that our children are blessed.

7. Enlightened selfishness: All of us are basically selfish. Whatever we do, we expect something in return. We should definitely be grateful to those who stood by us. But, our focus should be on the internal satisfaction and the happiness we derive by doing good for others, without expecting anything in return. Perform a random act of kindness daily.

8. Forget and forgive: Don't be bothered too much about others' mistakes. We are not spiritual enough to show our other cheek when we are slapped in one. But for the sake of our own health and happiness, let us forgive and forget them. Otherwise, we will be only increasing our blood pressure.

9. Everything has a purpose: Take life as it comes. Accept yourself as you are and also accept others for what they are. Everybody is unique and is right in his own way.

10. Overcome the fear of death: We all know that one day we have to leave this world. Still we are afraid of death. We think that our spouse and children will be unable to withstand our loss. But the truth is that your life on earth is not eternal, earth is not your home perpetually. Your love ones will miss you but the memories live on, you can be an example for them to carry on! Last but most important, you have a God who loves and cares for you! You have a future and a hope in Him....you have a choice...life can begin NOW..... So, are you aging gracefully or miserably?

First Posting: 2012

The Perils of Casino Gambling

Just recently I was reading an article on gambling addiction written by Daniel Bortz and published in the US News and World Report. In the article he reported that more and more Americans of both genders are seduced by the casinos due to accessibility. This is indeed true based on our personal experiences. Prior to the construction of Thunder Valley Casino in Lincoln , California, my wife and I go to the Casinos may be twice a year since we have to drive more than one hour to the nearest Casino from our residence. With the construction of Thunder Valley and Red Hawk, we go to the casinos every other week. Both Casinos are only about 30 minutes drive from our residence. Besides gambling we patronized all the restaurants inside the Casino. We have a budget that we followed strictly. Besides playing the slots, my wife and I partake the delicious buffet offered by the Casinos at a reasonable price.

I have a relative who was addicted to Poker. His wife divorced him. If you think you are addicted to gambling, call 1-800-555-1212 and asked for the number of Gambler Anonymous (GA). I hope GA can help you.

The report mentioned that about 2 million adults meet the criteria for “pathological gambling or addiction.” and 4 to 6 million are considered “problem gamblers”. This is due to the fact that the number of casinos in the US is growing not including gambling online. Gambling addiction affects both men and women from all socioeconomic classes, according to figures from the National Council on Problem Gambling.

The gap between the number of male and female gambling addicts is closing. As more Indian and local casinos with slot machines are added, the number of female problem gamblers increases throughout the country, says Sam Skolnik, author of "High Stakes: The Rising Cost of America's Gambling Addiction."

However, Skolnik says betting behaviors vary by gender. He says men are more likely to be "action gamblers," meaning they prefer games that involve skill (e.g., poker or blackjack), while women tend to be "escape gamblers," meaning they're more drawn to machines that are based on luck (e.g., slots or bingo) and gamble to distract themselves from problems in their personal life.

Personal Note: My wife and I go to the Casino every other week with a definite budget. We also partake the reasonably price food besides playing the slot machines. I believe we are not addicted yet. We used to go to the movies, Broadway plays/musicals and eat at expensive restaurants as part of our monthly entertainment budget. Again, may I reiterate, if you are a gamboholic, call 1-800-555-1212 and asked for the number of GA.

First Posting:2016

Music of IL Divo

Time for some of my favorite musical pieces from Il Divo.


Il Divo ("divine male performer" in Italian) is a multinational operatic pop vocal group created by music manager, executive, and reality TV star Simon Cowell. Formed in the United Kingdom, they are also signed to Cowell's record label, Syco Music. Il Divo is a group of four male singers: Spanish baritone Carlos Marín, Swiss tenor Urs Bühler, American tenor David Miller, and French pop singer Sébastien Izambard. To date, they have sold more than 26 million albums worldwide

Four Stars for Aura Dental Care of Citrus Heights, California

Typical Tori of the Lower Jaw.

I have both upper and lower dentures made in the Philippines about four years ago. Both dentures have been working with no problems since then. However, three months ago, I broke 4 front teeth. I postponed having it removed as it did not bother me. However, last month, one of the tooth started to ache. I have no choice, but to see a dentist. My Federal Medical insurance do not cover dental work, so I started inquiring for a reasonable dentist in our neighborhood. I talked to four dental offices in our neighborhood. One office a private group of dentist ( Citrus Heights Dental) offered a free X'ray and Examination for new patients. I decided to visit the office and have the full mouth X-ray and examination.

The dentist refused to fixed my lower denture and recommended new dentures (upper and lower). This will require removing the 4 broken teeth as well as the two teeth that anchors my lower and upper partials. I have also toris in my lower jaw and this has to be removed by an oral surgeon before a new denture is made at a separate expense. Tori are simply bony growths in the upper or lower jaws. Tori may interfere with dental appliances in which case they must be removed or the appliance modified to fit around the tori. If the partial denture covers the tori and the tori continues to grow, the partial may not fit as well over time. If a major portion of a dental appliance covers a tori it may not be able to be modified sufficiently to allow continued wear of the appliance.

CH Dental give me an estimate of $6000( with 10% discount) for both new upper and lower dentures which included the extraction of my 6 remaining teeth. The removal of the tori has to be done by an oral surgeon at extra expense. Needless to say I got out of the office in a hurry when I saw the estimate.

In the meantime, my 4 front broken teeth started to ache again. This time, I called CH and asked for the owner/manager of the office. After talking to her she said that the estimate is just a recommendation, and will assign me another dentist and can extract the 4 front teeth for $1000. I had no choice. The new dentist was good. The office again reiterated they will not fixed or add 4 teeth to my old denture. A new lower denture is recommended and before they can do it, I should have an oral surgeon removed the tori in my lower jaw.

In the Internet, there is an 800 number to help you look for dental offices that do repair of dentures. I called the 1-800-dentist number and they refer me to Aura Dental Care of Citrus Heights(ADC). They advertised that repair can be done in one day. I made an appointment and was able to get one the next day. ADC has also a free X-ray and Exam for new patients promotion. The dentist (Dr B) saw me and ask why I came to his office. I told him I need my lower denture repaired with the addition of 4 new teeth that was just extracted 3 days ago. He looked at my denture and said the dental lab may be able to do it for $720. They took an impression of both my upper and lower dentures. Prior to the impression, an X'ray technician took X'ray of my whole mouth which I believe was not necessary since I have only 2 teeth. The rest of my mouth are gums. She agreed but she said taking X-ray of the whole mouth for new patients is standard procedure and she is just following instruction. Stupid Indeed!

After the impression, I was told I will get a call before 4PM ( I was in the Office at 9:30AM). I will know whether a repair of my old lower denture is possible or not. At 3:30PM , ACD called me that my denture has been repaired with 4 teeth added. The repair work was good. I have my denture repaired without my tori operation. Evidently, my denture was made and modified avoiding the tori in my lower jaw. The repaired denture felt good after a minor adjustment. I went home happy and $720 poorer. I am rating ACD a 4 star. I could have given them a 5 star if the unnecessary Xray of the whole mouth was not done.

Personal Note: My dentist in the Philippines is really good because he was able to make my lower partial fit around my tori. The dentist at CH Dental refused to repair my partial unless I have my tori first removed by an oral surgeon, which will be traumatic and painful and will cost a lot of money. Shame on you CH Dental-for just thinking of money instead of the welfare of your patients.

Still Enjoying a Few Spring Blooms in Mid-Winter

One of the advantages in living in Northern California is still enjoying spring blooms in mid winter. This year we have not experienced a hard freeze yet, so a few of my ornamentals protected by the walls of the house are still blooming. Expecting a hard freeze before the end of the month. Enjoy the following photos in my front patio and side yard.

My Ganzanias and mini-Begonias are still in bloom -January 9, 2019

My Ganzanias and begonias are still blooming in mid winter in my front Patio.

The few lemons left after I harvested more than 150 lemon fruit this year

A few ice plant blooms(yellow).

One rose bush is still blooming

A few rhodondendron blooms

Ditas New Boss-Governor Gavin Newsom

Today, is the inauguration of California's 40th governor-Gavin Newsom. He is now Ditas new big boss. Here's an article from the San Francisco Chronicle published one hour ago.

https://www.sfchronicle.com/politics/article/Gov-Gavin-Newsom-governor-inaugural-speech-brown-13514913.php

For more information on Newsom read his bio on Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gavin_Newsom