Sorry, I was trying to get this published at 12pm HST, but ran into some delays…

As if my blogging reputation hadn’t died a long time ago…lol.  I kind of didn’t really think about the consequences of a post like this, because well, if I did I don’t think I’d ever put myself out there like that, but I can’t believe how civil the questions have been!  Seriously, great questions, and nothing really offensive.  I didn’t know what to expect.  I want to thank everyone that left their questions for me and Brownie, and even those that considered, but never posted.  Hey the thought was there, and I may have another ask me anything post in the future, and other bloggers, feel free to meme, and let me know.  I’ll link you up to this post…

This will probably be the longest post I will EVER post.  So sit back, get your popcorn, put your browser in auto-scroll mode, and enjoy!

In order of comments posted.

Jay asks Freedumb:  “Boxers or briefs? Please justify your answer.”

Jay, Boxers!  They don’t show turtle tracks like “tighty whities.”  Seriously, they just feel more comfortable…I like the draft.  It gets hot and sweaty down there…I’m sure you know….on top of that, the last thing I need is for everything to be smooshed together.  I’ve had thoughts about boxer-briefs, but my figure would not go gracefully with boxer-briefs at this moment, if you know what I mean.

As a side note, most local guys who frequent the beaches in Hawaii usually just wear boardshorts.  Think about that the next time you’re at the beach in Hawaii, Jay! HAH.  ****OH THE PAIN…I just thought about it too…I go to the beach with my buddies all the time…it’ll never be the same!!!!****  Why commando?  Dries much quicker…damp, wet underwear = gross, yucky feeling like I pee’d my pants…not that I know what that feels like.  :neutral: 

kassy asks Freedumb:  “What made you decide to get a chocolate lab? Did you decide this before you saw Brownie as a pup or was it love at first sight when you saw each other? Don’t tell my cat, but Brownie sounds like a fabulous dog!”

kassy, Brownie is an awesome dog!  But I bet no more than your kitty is in your eyes.  When looking for a dog, all I knew is that I either wanted a male Lab or Beagle with good medical history, champion lines and color wasn’t a concern.  When I looked in the newspaper, there were 3 litters listed.  Only 1 breeder made me feel comfortable.  When I went to visit the litter, there he was.  Lazy, mouthy, and plain old irresistable.  I wanted a laid back dog, and sleepy head was it.  Once I brought him home though, he was a MONSTER.  Now that he’s almost a year old, he has mellowed out a bit.  So yeah, it was love at first site…at least for me, not sure it was reciprocated, but he had no choice.  hah.  I do wish I was more educated on things such as OFA clearances and breeder policies.

What’s odd, before I got Brownie, I knew I wanted a dog, but it easily would have been one of those things that just never happens because it’s just such a hassle…but my best friend actually kept bugging me by calling me every Sunday telling me, “Hey Freedumb, look ANOTHER litter.”  Finally, I gave in.  I always wanted to get a dog since my last one passed, but just never got around to it.  I don’t think I would’ve got Brownie if it wasn’t for my friend.  Now I couldn’t imagine life without him.

BTW, if I get another dog in the future, I’ll most likely follow a different path…I’ll write about it in the future.

Quo asks Freedumb:  “What’s in your fridge right now, (isn’t that a good “Cribs” question), lol?”

Quo, Oh boy…I don’t like the idea of answering this one.  I’m not proud of my fridge contents…but here goes:

• 5 cans of 7-up…4 now…*burp*
• 1 can of Arizona Green Tea
• 6 cans of Bud Light (old)
• 10 bottles of Heineken (older)
• 3 cans of Miller (really old)
• Maple Syrup
• Half a can of dog food (to mix in with Brownie’s food every once in a while)
• 2 Buttermilk sauces from Jack in a Box
• A bag of mini carrots
• 9 apples
• 1 jar of peanut butter

I don’t drink much by the way…I just accumulate beer from friends coming over.  I have 2 bottles sitting on my counter of Tequiza dated…October 15, 1999.  I kept them as a reminder of uhhhh…really, really old beer & as a part of my disaster survival kit.

Taffy asks Brownie:  “Brownie do you prefer hard treats like Milkbones or softer/chewy ones like Beggin Strips?”

Taffy, I like everything edible equally, I do not discriminate.  Sometimes non-edible is fine too, as long as it’s rippable, shreddable, and/or my dad says I can’t have it.

P.S. I also like to lick everyone on their face with my slobbery mouth…especially right after I lick my you know where.  It’s so fun watching silly human reactions. -Brownie

D asks Freedumb:  “Most of us mainlanders dream of vacation on your islands. Where does a person dream of vacationing if they already live in paradise?:???:”

D, I want to travel to Japan, New York City, New Zealand, Italy (in search of the best spaghetti & meatballs), and anywhere with snow and mountains!  I have a strange desire to go to Alaska to dig for gold, salmon fish, and snowboard by heli-lift, and to backpack through Europe one of these days.

For reference:  Mainlanders = folks living in the continental United States…the main piece of land…thus “mainland.”

S/100/30 asks Freedumb:  “It’s not really a question, but I would be interested in hearing you talk more about the bullying you suffered. The Ryan Halligan link had me sobbing…”

For reference:  Bullying and How It Affects Me.

S/100/30 (I feel like a robot when I say your alias), good question…That Ryan Halligan link is definitely a tear jerker.  Did you watch the video?

About me…This is kind of hard, because it’s still embarassing to think back about the specifics, but I remember things like being called “Toxic Avenger,” because I was overweight and apparently I smelled a little.  I quickly learned about deodorant, but it was a little too late.  That name stuck.  I remember getting trash thrown in my locker.  I remember being beamed in the face with a dodge ball.  I remember my “friends” ditching me after going to the mall because they didn’t really want to hang out with me.  How many times I remember just trying to fit in, but ultimately getting made fun of.  I don’t know why I tried so hard to hang around the folks I did in grade school.  I tried so hard to fit in.  I’m so glad I went to a different high school from where most of my classmates in intermediate went to…because, that’s when, for the first time, I met real friends.  It was like a whole new world opened up for me.  Not that I still didn’t get an occassional sly comment, but knowing that I had real friends made all the difference.  I wouldn’t have it any other way, and made them that much more special.  Nowadays, I just get overly worked up whenever I hear someone getting picked on.

Single Ma asks Freedumb:

• What’s your favorite color?
  Yellow, Orange, and Blue…actually any color but pink.  Sorry, I know you like Pink. 
• Do you like living in Hawaii?
  No doubt.  I love living in Hawaii.  It’s home.
• Is it really expensive?
  Yeah, but I don’t think it’s as expensive as it’s made out to be.  I think it’s pretty comparable to living in the coastal cities of California–San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Jose–or New York.  Gas is a few more cents…land/homes are almost the same…food is about the same.  Taxes are higher in California…
• When are you going to buy a house?
  I plan to buy a house during the summer of next year, but I’m not rushing.  My goal is to save as much as possible for the down payment so that even if I lose my job, I’ll be able to afford the mortgage on a lower income.
• Why are you single?
  LOL…If I knew that, I wouldn’t be!  Naw, I think it’s because I’m just bad at getting to know people at that “relationship” level.  Potential others always expect that I put them above all else in my life, but I have a really hard time doing that.  I enjoy my freedom, and I’m passionate about what I do, but not as passionate about the relationships I form.  I also put up a quick defense…I lose trust in people very quickly, and because of that I’d rather just stay single…it’s less stress.  I think in order for a relationship to form, both parties need to give up some of their independence, which is difficult for me…But, my weaknesses:  Kids and animals.  As bad as this sounds, I think I could tolerate a relationship to have a family.  I’m thinking and hoping that I just haven’t found the right person yet.  Then again, I do enjoy my singleness.  In a few years, I may change my tune on this one…
• How old are you?
  Very close to 29. 
• Do you consider yourself attractive?
  Whoa!  I could lose some weight, then I’d be all over myself…If I said, I’m ugly, then it’d indicate I have really low self esteem…If I said I’m attractive, that just be, well, arrogant…How’s about I just tell you that I know I’d never be a model.
• What do you think about interracial dating?
  What’s race?  Seriously, the faster we mixup the gene pool, the quicker we forget what race we are.  Sort of like many caucasians, that I know of at least, that don’t know what kind of “white” they are.  I’m not advocating forgetting our roots or our culture because that’s very important, but the faster “race” becomes a non-issue the better in my opinion.  As for what I think about interracial dating, I’m all for it!  But I know there’s a problem, because if I think about it I’m not sure how my parents would react…and that shouldn’t even be a concern.
• What is the worst assumption you’ve ever made about someone?
  That’s a really tough question…I think the worst assumptions are about myself and my ideas.  For example, “I’m right…you’re wrong.”  I can’t even count how many times I’ve probably been wrong, only to find out for myself way after the fact, when the argument has already been made.  I feel like a fool.  Or, “This is a great idea” when really it isn’t.  Or self doubt, “I can’t do that,” when really I probably could if I just tried.                

  Another thing I wish I could change is that I know I make observational assumptions, like “Why does that person need to drive that Hummer?” or “Should that old person really be driving?”  When I don’t even know them.  I try to get rid of these thoughts, but it still crosses my mind, and I can’t help it.  All I know is that when they come up, I ask myself if I really know enough about the whole situation to even think about people like that.

• What do you do when you’re not working/blogging?
  Since my mind started maturing at around the age of 24, I enjoy simple things, and have become irritated by young, obnoxious, loud behavior.  I am now that “old fart” that hates dislikes loud music with thundering bass, giggly groups of high schoolers, and crazy drivers in overly decorated cars.      

  I enjoy guessing whether Brownie will step in his own puddle of pee, guessing how many piles he’ll make in one bathroom outting, who will win the “tug of war” battle at the dog park…Speaking of the dog park, I’ve been religiously going to the dog park or taking Brownie for walks.  I could probably count on one hand, how many days I haven’t at least had a class, went to the dog park, or walked with Brownie since he came home with me.  I’m not looking forward to the rainy season.  Besides that, I’m a homebody.  I like watching TV and cruising with my friends.  I also like fishing (or trying to at least), golfing (when I get a chance), going to the movies (although none of my friends ever do that anymore), taking pictures, surfing the web, and cooking/eating.

• Why do you enjoy personal finance?
  I think it’s just the way I’ve been raised.  Coming from a lower-middle class family, I just had a natural inclination to save what I could…it’s developed into an obsession.
• Do you have any debt?
  Besides my credit card debt, no, not at this moment.
• If you didn’t have to work for money, what would you be doing right now?
  I would be raising a whole family of Labs and Beagles, teaching high school biology, volunteering at the Humane Society, and fostering kids.  I’d probably be travelling a little, too…see D’s question above.
• Do you have any regrets in life?
  Yep, I do.  Assuming you wanted to know what they were:  1) smoking, 2) not staying at my exchange university for two terms instead of only one, 3) not meeting my friends earlier in my life, 4) not investing in stocks when I first started working, 5) not buying a house when I lived in California, 6) starting pf blogging so late.
• If you could have a do-over, what would you do differently?
  I would’ve studied much harder in college.  I honestly just tried to get through that whole period.  I like learning, but I like learning in labs and by doing things…I really hated reading books and learning theory.  I wish they had a “practical” degree, where everything is taught by doing things…no classes, just exams by demonstrating the skills you’ve learned.  Maybe I would’ve been better off going to an apprenticeship college.  All things considered though, besides my regrets and changing them, I don’t really have one thing that I would do over….
• Do you believe in God? Why or why not?
  Yes.  I could go on and on about this one, but the bottom line is I just do.

Kira asks Freedumb:  ”What’s something awesome to do in your area that isn’t on the tourist maps? “

Kira, It depends on what you like…

Sightseeing/Nature lover?  Hike!  Check out this site.  Don’t do the touristy hikes like Diamond Head and the Makapu’u Lighthouse…those are nice, but some I’ve done and liked are Manoa Falls trail, Hawaii’loa Ridge trail, and Maunawili trail.  These are on Oahu…I’m not too sure of trails on the other islands.  Of course, the trails can be dangerous!  So always use caution and read the warning on the website I’ve linked–it’s the official state sponsored site.  NEVER HIKE ALONE.

Shopping?  I’m not much of a shopper but the Swap Meet is a good place to go for cheap stuff.  Always bargain!  Also, military folks may want to check out the commissaries/exchanges…I’ve heard good deals are to be had.

Food?  Yes!  My favorite area.  There are four things you MUST try in Hawaii:  Liliha Bakery Coco Puffs, Leonard’s Malasadas, Zippy’s Chili, and Waiola Shave Ice (rainbow with condensed milk).

Check out this post I wrote earlier for more info on travelling to Hawaii (Oahu specifically).

D asks Freedumb & Brownie:  “Big Mac Or Whopper?”

Freedumb:  Whopper by far!  Brownie gives you the tilted head stare.  Brownie doesn’t eat people food…except ice cream…when it’s really hot.

Single Ma asks Freedumb:  “Why do people at work ask dumb questions?”

Single Ma, The world requires balance.  If we have smart questions, we must have dumb questions.  Whether at work, at home, or anywhere, smart balances dumb.  Without dumb, smart could not exist.  You might be able to vaguely apply Newton’s 3rd Law here: “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.”

D asks Freedumb:

• Are you surprised more bloggers didn’t post a question?
  No, not at all.  I’m suprised I got this many!  I was really worried it’d be a failure, but thanks to you all, it’s been great fun!  I hope you are all enjoying this as much as I am.
• Since the Tsunami, do you worry about a similar event, being on an island?
  Not really…there’s too many other things to worry about.
• Favorite cake?
  Dobash and Cheesecake.
• Have you ever experienced snow?
  Oh yes!  Snow would make life in Hawaii PERFECT.  (And snow on top of Maunakea doesn’t count…)
• If so did you like your experience with snow?
  YES!
• Regardless do you miss snow?
  YESS!!!!!!  You’re making me miss it more…
• Do you hop islands often?
  Rarely…I can count how many times I’ve been off of Oahu on one hand.
• Does Brownie have a girldogfriend?
  Hahaha…yes, he actually sort of does.  A pit/lab mix…He consistently plays with her, and will not stop even if there are other dogs around.  He’s even been on a date with her hiking.  They had their first fight about 2 weeks ago, but they quickly made up.  She actually takes care of Brownie at the dog park…Brownie lets other dogs beat him up, but his gf always comes to his defense.  It’s pretty cool watching their behavior together…like a couple in their 2nd year of their relationship…non-exclusive, of course.
• What kind of store do your parents have?
  A snack store.
• Do you think your brother feels obligated to work for them? (I think I remember a brother)
  Good question…Yes, in some ways he does.  He’s the “good son.”  I think he feels obligated to my dad…but man you should see those two, they get in some heated arguments.  I’m glad to stay out of that conversation.
• Have you ever been to Alaska?
  No, but I’d like to go there!  See my travel comments above…I think you asked it!  haha…
• If so why and what did you do?
  N/A
• What is the cost of gas per gallon in Hawaii?
  Regular can be had for $2.99.  Check out honolulugasprices.com.
• What is the cost of a gallon of milk in Hawaii?
  2 for $4?  I’m not sure actually, I prefer getting my calcium from cheese, ice cream, and half & half.  I checked with my friend, a generic brand gallon of milk can cost between $3.50-5.00.  :shock:
• What is the cost of a Whopper and/or Big Mac in Hawaii (you can do meal deals)?
  Big Mac Combo is about $4.20 I think…Whopper combo $4.70…Rarely eat either, although I like Whoppers much better.
• What’s your sign? Ha-Ha!
  Oh boy…you trying to filter out my birth date?  I’ll say that it’s one of four:  Scorpio, Capricorn, Sagittarius, or Aquarius.
• Do you know how hard it is to think up questions?
  Yep…that’s why it’s so much fun for me! 
• Are you enjoying the torture you are inflicting?
  No…
• Does mom do your laundry?
  Oh man…I am going to get a beating now…Yes, she does…SOMETIMES.  Hey I did my own laundry for almost 5 years…and I didn’t ask her!  I even told her to stop…
• Does dad work on your truck?
  Nope, but I do…Or I take it to my friend’s shop to learn new stuff…I like getting my hands dirty.
• Is there sibling rivalry with your brother?
  Not really…we get along pretty well now…not when we were younger though.
• Is Brownie really your dog or your families?
  He’s my dog…My brother takes him out to use the bathroom once a month…My parents?  Never.  Although they spoil him like crazy!
• Will the Bears ever be Super Bowl Material? Stop laughing just answer.
  You know, this year I think they may have a chance.  As boring as they are, no offense (wow, dual purpose word there!), they have a shot this year.
• Do you like the Packers? (this is a very important question)
  Hah…I like the Niners…what does that tell you?  Besides the fact that I’m crazy…
• Have you ever been to Wrigley Field?
  Nope….I’ve been in Chicago, but not Wriggley.
• Did Eddie Belfour ever have what it takes or was there someone secret pulling strings for him? (I have autographed cards from him)
  The hockey player?  What’s hockey?  But I did Google it, and the first link that came up had a quote in it:  “I’m fortunate to have played on some really good teams and with really good teammates.”  Makes me think, “Yes, he is pretty good, and no I don’t think someone pulled strings for him.”
• I have a limited edition Michael Jordan’s The Restaurant Fine Pewter Emblem mug - #215 of 10,000 - will this ever be worth anything?”
  It’s possible.  I did find it listed as a collectible at this site, but I couldn’t find any mention of the pewter mug on eBay or Google.  Anyway, depending on how he (Jordan) handles his reputation weighs heavily on the value of collectibles.  He’s been pretty quiet as of late, and if that continues, he may not garner the attention needed to push the value of his collectibles up.  I’d say it’s best used if you put it in your freezer and poured a nice cold one in it…A great conversation piece I bet…

That’s it! Thank you again! I think I’m going to have to rest my fingers for a bit…This is the longest thing I’ve written since my last term in college. Baaad memories. This one is much better and much more enjoyable. Don’t hestitate to ask any questions, any time!