The end of a Castaneda Era, 2012

Today is the end of two things, the end of the year and the end of David Castaneda. Effective Midnight, my name will be officially changed to Dave Jefferson. When I look back into the days when I was 3 years old to today, it was a roller-coaster ride. If I had to say which were my best days academically it would be at William Northrup Elementary school, even though they were a bunch idiots, but the school was fantastic. As I got older from high school until now, I figured that I am a very personal and independent person when it comes to life. I’ll admit I do not have many friends or cliques I hang out with. As they say in elementary or high school, loner! Yeah right. The way I see it the loner in elementary and high school turns on being on track with life. At age 22 I even told myself, I better off being by myself and one man show to succeed, I do not really anyone by my side. I would like to have friends who support outside my family, but I got very little of that. I say that it is okay, because once I’d accomplished several goals in my life, I was used to it, and then finished on what I do to do.

Whatever my peers, people, family members told my negatively I took it as motivation to better myself and accomplish my goals and developing into a man. David Castaneda-wise, I’ll admit I did want attention as much as women who dresses glamorous. When I saw pictures of people, my peers and groups I get jealous , because I always thought how come I go to something like that, or how he has a lot of girlfriends? Areas has its plus and minuses. I think it is a learning curb as you go through life and realize there are certain things might be a risk and decided to stay away. As a plus and minus example, guys/boys say it is all about partying, drinking and so forth and I tell them my story about I graduated and so on, they look at me like “You graduated”? Then they look at me stunned or quiet. They know girls/women would like a “man” who is successful. My co-workers and peers said finish your education, and then do what you want; it is not worth partying and clubbing. I found better ways to meet people and especially women, better than the college hookup which I will explain later.

About year and half ago, I found this website called “Meetup” where they set up events for people who like to go; for example, singles, adventures, camps and so on. I think this is a great way to meet people, because they are open ready to talk with one another instead of being nervous and feeling uncomfortable. Everyone is willing to be open and have a great time either dancing, drinking (not a lot), get to know the people, other activities it is pretty great. As I said prior I’m not pursuing a relationship, but if something goes on then no problem. My career is my main focus going into tomorrow (Jan 1). My career dictates my life, as much money I have is going to tell me where I am in life. I would like to do is volunteer somewhere get some experience in a certain area in business for experience, if I can go that then I have a plan B just in case something goes wrong in the security side, then have a plan c and so on.

The college “hookup” in today’s college campuses is the trend for a quick one night at a “gig” then totally strangers are the next day. I did not want to get myself into that because it is still risky, protection, pill and so forth. Even though, I did not go into a university I can go to a college campus and have a good time at a “gig” or an ongoing campus party, which probably I get someone fake my drunk side and find a girl who is drunk as well, then go for it……not so fast. When I think about it I never really cared for sex and I did have my urges, but I don’t care too much for it. I say when I get older the partying and “having a good time” will take place. By then I will have my room, apartment or whatever shelter I am renting. This way it is easier to have time to myself and “bring girls’ home.

I am looking forward into the new year and have a  goals in mind, once again, Masters, Moving up in my career, wealth, developing my well-being and my manhood.

2012 watch out!

Starbucks, Shit Happens 2012 in Temple City, Ca

I had an interesting conversation with two of my female Starbuck friends, well shit happens. We had conversations about kids, marriage, jobs and living life. Basically, they had the same idea that I’ve learned throughout my adult life; for example, your perfect person can turn out to be the wrong person or the wrong person can eventually be the right person…..interesting. I always say, “Life happens in reverse”. Observing from marriages that a man and women are together for 10 to 15 years to a divorce to having kids are too much work.  No matter whom you’re with or what type of relationship you’re in, things bound to change. I even think to myself should I even marry and raise kids or knock up a girl then pay child support and spouse support, I do not think so. I might as well be single for the rest of my life, a house, 2 cars and 3 dogs. I even think about the girls/women, who do not follow through, so what is the point of even getting married?

Right now, as I mentioned in my previous blog that: my career, wealth, being a man and my well-being are my ambitions going into 2012. I do not want to waste time dealing with any stress and problems. The problems I rather deal with are at work and school. That’s one of the reasons, why I am still single. I do not want to hear “I do not have enough money”, “I’m barely making it”, “How come you don’t care?” I want to stand on my own feet and be supported, not questioned. In Los Angeles, things are not structured. One of my Starbucks friends gave me a statistical point where California has a high divorce rate. That proves my theory, why should I even marry or have a relationship in California? Hopefully I pass the background check and officially become Lieutenant and start going forward rather than being completely bored at home. At least, I am staying out of trouble and being more productive day by day. As of right now, I see a young girl at approximately about 17-20 years old who has a baby, pretty girl, but Gee, what a start to life. I rather not do that. Once again, 15 years from now (Age 40).

My two Starbuck female friends, whom one has 4 kids and the other is single. We discussed the plus and minuses of marriage. An agreement upon us three where marriage is a business, but also problems can occur left and right, if two individuals are not on the same page; for example, a typical successful “guy” who is (let just say) 36, and his wife who is 27, and they have 2 kids ages 7 and 3. The wife is hot and she thinks she is secured for life due to her husband has a career with a high salary. Anyhow, the husband and wife are in a bad situation, they get into an argument and decide to divorce. The soon to be ex-wife wants child support and spouse support. She had no degree, but she had a good work history, but has not worked for 7 years, because of being pregnant with her first child. They both go to court; she gets custody of the kids, but does not win the spouse support, but gets the child support. Now, she is screwed over because she was not rewarded with the spouse support, but wins the child support which she will take money from that. That leaves her in a position to find a job and struggle.

Now to the soon to be ex-husband side, he  is successful as mentioned prior, he know his wife was getting comfortable and getting lazy, he told his wife to start working and to do a hobby instead of spending money and buying unnecessary stuff. The ex-wife got extremely mad and made a big deal and starting complaining. The ex-husband mentions “you said ‘you were going to take classes after you had the kids’ ‘The kids are in school and day care now, how come you are being lazy and not doing anything”. The ex-wife and husband then on started having long fight. Then he goes to court against his wife and has to be pay child support, has the kids every other day and some weekends, but does not have to pay spousal support. Maybe it is not the ex-husband fault. As mention it is plus and minus, this is only one scenario that can happen.

It gets me to think more about my future involving a family it is not just the positives I look at, but the negatives, so I why should I put myself in a position that commonly happens. I have options to explore before I go any deeper with someone or going into the relationship. I see my career dictating my decision of getting married or starting a family. I’m only at the beginning my manhood, since I just got my degree and pending my next career move. If I ever find someone to go along life with I am still going to let my career dictate my relationship, because that what brings the money and status of the health of marriage. Also, I want my future fiancé, girl friend or wife to have a something going for her. The marriage or engagement has to be healthy I’m not going to work two jobs and burn myself out. I’d probably work teaching at a school, because I want other individuals to learn from me and I can give them my word of success. Even though I’m currently stalled I have options to look at. I can’t until 2012!

40 years young

40 years it seems like forever when I think about it, but that is the age where hopefully I will be well established and ready to go with family, finance, and stability. I tell individuals my plan and I get a balanced response. The good responses I get that people say it is good to establish finance stability; also you are wiser and responsible as you get older. I would be a better husband and father when I decide to get married and have family. Then there are the bad responses, where people say, that is old, you would not be able to keep up with your kids, you should enjoy your family at a young age and so on. From doing my days of puppy love from 2004 to 2008 in a 4 year span, I decided to take my time and go on with life instead of looking for someone then proceed on. The stupidity of women is up there; especially in Los Angeles, I am not going to take a chance linger around and see what pops up. Also having guys/boys are sniffing butts and trying to get laid every night which is not going to work out for me.

I think 40 years old is a great age when you have 20+ years of work experience under your belt with money saved up it seems like a good way to be established, plus a retirement plan in hand. Hopefully with many promotions and a bright future I’m looking at $300,000 if I can get this by 45, I would be set. I see myself working until I am 70 years old then about 15 to 20 years more then I die.  As I get older I tend to plan to keep my body in shape as I progress in age, as I always to mention I’m turning 25 less than a month 1 year into my prime. I have no did any outside activities since I was 20 years old, playing basketball, and running, these were the activities to keep me in shape and keep me going. I would have to restructure my schedule and go to the gym more often to condition my body. A good example of your keeping your body healthy and condition is Michael Jordan, my idol and inspiration. In 2003, At the age of 40 years old, this man (Jordan) averaged about 20.0 point per game and grabbed 7 rebounds a game and played a full 82 game season even with a busted knee where he surgery before the year before in 2002. People are pretty stupid by saying well he is Michael Jordan, nah, I don’t think so. It is a matter of keeping your body healthy and condition. As we tend to get older our body needs more condition.

Working out, exercising, eating healthy and the right vitamins will help your body be more effective and healthier. Slowing down and I’m old are excuses that people use because they do not want to do anything for themselves and limits him/herself as they go. I’m getting older but I never say I’m old. 25 years old is just the start of things I do not believe that my body is going to shut down. Our bodies may have wear and tear depending on what activities we are engaged, but we need our bodies to rest.  About 5 years ago as mentioned earlier I stopped playing basketball, I thought about it last night (Dec 28) it is good that I’m saving my legs for the future.  I would like to produce my energy, condition and muscle into my body for a healthy look. As long I am conditioned properly I will be able to last. 40 years seems like a long way, but I better look out, because it be here right around the corner.

Education and Work 2012....

I believe education is a big step towards a successful life and way of understanding a certain practice. Basically, anything you learn it is education, because you are learning and observing as you go. I learn from being a man to being the best supervisor I can be. From being the best son to the best cousin I can be. Education is typically known academic environment and an instructor who teaches the curriculum of the subject. From Promotion to High school, then Associates to Bachelors Degrees, these are the documentation that leads to a turning point and advantage in a career or life. Many people work their way up, either in the middle or after high school.

I have a chosen a path where I did both education and work experience from 2008 until this month, I’m in target in life and glad to be in a position where I can thrive in the next 5 years. Before I talk about work experience, let me get back to education. Many individuals dread college due to the student loans FAFSA and private loans. Racked up $20,000 to $60,000 if you go for your masters you may hit $100,000. I have told myself, I do not care how much loans I rack up because to me I believe education is important no matter what. No matter how much loans I take out, I’m willing to take the risk and do everything in my power to be a valuable employee as well person who is educated.  When I turn 25 less than a month, whatever I do it is going to be an experience will be a lesson taught to my kids. Since, I’m with my parents I’m going to take advantage as much as I can from savings to extra money into my savings. I want to show my kids; no matter how much debt you have to pay there is always a way to accomplish and pay back on what you need. In my position right now, no kids or girlfriend/wife….sounds good? Of course it does. No matter how much I rack up education is important. From dedication and hard work my future kids are going to understand of great work ethic and commitment. Thomas Jefferson was a successful man in his days; he had over $200,000 in debt.

Work experience, I’ve been in the work force for last 6 years, 2 years in retail and 3 years and half in security. I started out of high school unsure what I wanted to do, first I looked into being a disc-jockey, because of Howard Stern which I still praise from this day on, also deciding to major in Communication and go to Cal State Fullerton which that did not happen. When I was working at Chicks I decided to stick around and be a department manager at Chicks or work for corporate of Chicks. That did not happen, but I think it was a good thing because I decided to go back to college and pursue security or law enforcement. When I look at my work history I wish I did things more clearly and I wish I had the goal of being a director or regional director before, but I was never taught about college or careers when I was a kid. I asked my parents how come I was never explained college, career paths and options when I was a kid Or should I blame myself for being a ignorant to my parents…..I’ll admit right now, I’ll take most of it, because maybe I did not have the dignity to ask my mom or dad, also being annoyed by my family. Plus, it seemed like I wanted to be private from them because how they were treating and how I felt, the teenage mind……probably

Besides that, my mom and dad knew I was working and going to college and saw how hard I worked, they saw dedication I had for my work and education molded together brought me to the opportunity to have 3 years and half of security. When I had my goals achieved this month, I was excited that I had almost 4 years in security and also B.S. degree to accumulate that shows that how dedicated I am, plus it helped me get ahead in life. Most universities and college students have to wait until the summer or winter to pursue the luxury of working and also applying to internships. The years working and going to college gave me the luxury to get ahead on certain areas also the will and desire to accomplish task and lay out on my resume. My family (Castaneda’s and Fernandez) sides have cousins, nephews, uncles and aunts who are successful, but I want my family to say my son “just graduated and currently a supervisor at such and such”. If I had my kids already and they were Vice Presidents of a company or Directors, Law enforcement that would be a dream, but right now it is my parents time to say I have a son who just graduated and he is a security official at this place”………That’s sounds great!

My inspiration is Michael Jordan, but at the end of the day my heroes are my mom and dad!

Finance 2012

In today’s financial or economic meltdown there are a lot of individuals who are struggling to either find jobs or to keep up with their finances.  At the end of this month, corporations reveal their financial profit and fiscal budget that will end and new budgets have been negotiated and set for the New Year. When Sr. managers, executives, vice presidents, chief officers and the board of directors leave for vacation, they will receive their annual Christmas bonus which they receive from millions to hundred thousands of dollars. When going down the chain from mid-level managers to subordinates, some may or may not receive anything other than a gift card, pat on a back or nothing at all. Before Christmas, I knew someone who receive a Christmas bonus, but got very little, but I say “better than nothing” The company made 20 million dollars in profit, we all know who got the bigger bonuses and we all knew who were pissed.

When it comes to working or corporation efforts everyone wants to be patted on the back or appreciated for what they have done. Either more money or achievement that shows what they have accomplished. Everyone should face the facts, almost everyone who works is underpaid or you have to come to realize that where you live the cost is too high. I see these executives, vice presidents and so on are the smartest people in the world, the reason why? They know how to manage their money. Most people I experienced will always complain about, they are not getting enough money, they are underpaid, and they are not appreciated. That either tells me they want it easy or they are just complaining on what they do. Also, I think it is poor money management when individuals complain they do not get enough, but there are exceptions for example adults who may have a family maybe working to two jobs or he should have plan on one of the jobs he is working at, whatever the case maybe. What will really get me are these young adults and some older adults between ages 18-26. Going back to my relationship blog, sex, club and partying are what these young adults do.

What I mean by this either guys/boys are going to waste their money on drugs, beer, girls, partying or clubbing and girls are going to spend their money on make-up, clothes, partying, clubbing, dinning and so on. What I hear from them is that they do not have enough money; I asked them well what do you with your money? I get the same answers mention above or from boys/guys I hear I owe child support, pay speeding ticket, or it seems it has to do something with the law. I’m just amazed how dumb guys/boys can be. The girls the reasons I get, once again, either something mention above or they have to support their boyfriend, or something crazy. I do get people who have positive thinking like helping out their parents or investing in their future, that’s awesome, but majority from the age group of 18-26 they cannot be structured and have a plan to do with their money, rather than throwing it way. I’ll admit I do go out and go to my mixers (better than clubs and partying) and have a settled budget. I only need to spend at least $50; I’m good for the night.

Back to the corporations, also I need to mention are that individuals are not willing to take extra responsibility to succeed in life and make more money. Well, common sense, you have to move up somewhere to accomplish your goals also you are going to be stuck with same wage and slowly getting your raises, also in this economic turmoil which is slowly progressing, it is all moving up. Now and days the little things count no matter where you start it is not hard to start over. Adjusting to a certain paying wage or career may be hard, but people have to get used to it. Once moving up into the corporation then things get much easier, people can see those bonuses and privileges they receive.    Once you get that wage or salary you wanted it is good to live by 20% to 25% of it then put all away rather than just spending……Excuse, life is short and you can’t take the money with you….yeah, stupid excuse to spend your money and have your back against the wall. At the end of the day, living by range and saving your money then investing it into a IRA, CD or maybe dividends. Look at options and make the money work.

That’s why these politicians, executives, vice presidents, and chief officers are the most successful individuals on earth!

Relationships 2012......

For the last few weeks before Christmas, I have been examining marriages and relationships either on television, newspaper, online press and verbal conversations between friends, family, and strangers. For what I hear it seems like marriages and relationships are dead. No one is committed, structured, loyal or no dedicated to one person.  Mentioned previously, marriages and relationships are dead. The stories I hear from older women they are in a bad generation or era where there is no more men/man left, which I agree. I even hear that guys/boys are either in marriage or relationship, the guys have a tendency to most likely cheat on their partner or spouse. I have talked to some males and the most common answer I received from their end is that, there is no more settling down, we are to have fun. Why waste your time.

I do understand what these guys mean (I am a man myself), but I do not want to deal with that in my lifetime.  Ever since I became single in December of 2008 and experienced my single life in for the first time. It was hard looking for girl/women who is structured, open, communicates and has a straight mindset (focused). I tried meeting girls/women, but they give me this defensive look and I keep getting rejected and I was thinking…..What is wrong with this picture? Mention earlier above, that was the reason why, you see a hot girl/women of course a guy/boy is going to have a wagging tail and ready to ride her in an instant.  I’ll admit that between 2009 to mid-2010, my male hormones were having me jump to every hot chick I saw, but I learned how to control my temptations. Women say they have sixth senses where they know what guy/boys are looking for. Most women tell me most guys/boys want to get in their pants, nothing else more. I told these women well if they are thinking that way about me then they are wrong and to start reprogramming their thinking. That is a girl’s problem is that they tend to over think and put themselves in a bad position.

I am a relationship person, I do not go to clubs, parties or “have a good time” in today’s jargon means to really to get screwed. Today’s trends; for example, is to find a hot chick have sex with her, then on to the next girl, or find a hot chick have sex with her, get her pregnant on purpose, then have a short life and  the guys benefit is that he is with a hot chick (which the guy/boy will cheat on her 1 month or less) or being with a girl like Kim Kardashian (excuse my spelling) or Megan Fox for less than a month than marry her, then get divorced a month later……… I don’t think so! I saw this many times from a 3 year calendar span which I do not accept, but every guy is doing it and some are successful (celebrity wise). I decided to concentrate 4 things, being a man, education, career, and wealth.  Lately I have been talking to older women from 30 years and older. I believe that generation was the end of the old fashion days of relationships which I rather pursue than having sex with many girls and compete against my male counterparts which I think it is really ridiculous. I think it is a Los Angeles thing, so hoping in a few years later when I travel, New York, Chicago and other major cities are not like this. I decided not to have a relationship in 2012, because of the reasons I mention prior in this blog. I rather fulfill my dreams and establish a foundation for myself where I can share with my kids later in life instead enjoying a 15 second pleasure that will only last for that short time period.

The only way I will pursue a relationship in 2012 is if a women is willing to open up and communicate with me and keep it going. I’ve talked to a couple of older women, but they end up falling short due to their communication. Right now, I am currently talking to this girl who is in her early 30’s she seems sweet, she’s cute, communicates very well, and has a nice personality. Which I like, she has an energy (not like that you sick freaks!) and a structured mindset. In 2012, my dating life is going to be slim which that is my prediction I am not going to be asking for dates or pursuing a relationship anytime soon. There may be women who want to talk to me, sure, no problem, but I am not going to be chasing or playing games, because I am done with that. I am going to be 25 not 16. This is only the beginning.  

Mexican American and Christmas

Christmas, a holiday of jolly and spirit between loved ones and friends, also the birth of Christ which his real birthday is in July or April which I forgot, interesting isn’t it?  For the last 24 years of my life I have celebrated with my family where now I buy gifts for them and feel the excite in their eyes and tears flowing of bring the family together. Which I would like to happen more, but that is not going to happen. As I go how I celebrate my Christmas Eve or the holidays, I am Hispanic and probably mixed with Indian (India) or Middle East due to my mom past ancestors.

  I am pre-dominantly Hispanic, because of my father side. In many Christmas Eve’s in my life my dad side makes tamales, where it is a Hispanic or Castaneda tradition, which I respect and appreciate their efforts making tamales. Later on when I have my family, I’ve decided that I will not make tamales or even through my life I did not take the effort or voluntary make tamales. As most people know I am way different than the ordinary Hispanics, I may not speak Spanish or follow the Hispanic culture, but I respect the ancestors who have fought their way over and created my mom and dad to place them on earth to place me here today which I am grateful. As a Mexican-American, I celebrate Christmas in American fashion, I concentrate more of my family, some friends I have, and what I have accomplished over the three calendar years, especially achieving a B.S. degree a few weeks ago. My parents had a fight a few weeks ago which caused me to resign from my supervisor position and figure out what to do in the coming weeks before the New Years. I’ll admit being in my family is hard, but I have to stick by them as much I can.

I am not ashamed not speaking Spanish, following more into the Hispanic culture or commitment into a traditional Hispanic. I have chosen my path and direction, I rarely see Hispanics who are republican, Buddhist, American oriented and does not follow his own heritage.  The past 24 of years of my life it has been that way with some choices to pick and decided to stick with them. I had a situation where one of my aunts tried to tell me to speak Spanish in front of my grandma (dad’s mother), but I declined I told her in English which I made my aunt to translate for my grandma. I declined multiple times and was not ashamed or embarrassed. As I said, what I have chosen and decided I stick with my strength and continued forward as an improved and well-mannered young adult. I want my family and some friends have to know that I am a very unique person, when it comes into a personal matter I take it seriously and make the best out of it. At times, life happens in reverse but I am going to continue to my way to the top and stay and choose I want to do. For Christmas, my present this year is that I have a happy life, I am where I want to be as an individual and my family is at least together for the holidays

A New Era and a new meaning.....

In about 8 more days until 2012, and a new beginning. What does that mean? A lot of things, new goals, new name, new job, new school and new time in life....possibly end of the world?? I don't think so. I have made a few announcements going into 2012 as few people know. As of effective Jan 1st, my name will be changed as Dave Jefferson, the reason for the change? I will explain later.

The last 3 calendar years from 2009 to this year has been 3 productive and learning experiences of my life. I Learned so much from being a post-boy to a developed man at the age of 24. I’ll admit that it was a hard experience to accept and absorb. There was a lot of observation, learning, researching and reading situations developing into a man. Even though I live in a media city known as Los Angeles I have seen the influence and media image that young to older adult have taken to start their trends and styles. When starting adulthood at the age of 22 and learning quickly about certain things in life it is completely different than being a kid. I did not go to college straight out of high school or I did not have a plan for my future. All I remember is having girlfriends and being relationships for the first 3 years of my adult life after graduating San Gabriel High School.  Despite my immaturity in 2006, I do regret certain things I have done in that year that shouldn’t been done or said.

Now at age 24, almost less than a month to go until I turn 25, over the course of this month (Dec) I have decided to revamp myself and concentrate on my well-being, being a man, career and wealth. I believe that if I continue improving myself moving forward into the New Year and turning 25, the improvements will help me evolve into the person I want to be. I’ve learn how valuable knowledge and skills that I can possess throughout my life make things happen. I have accomplished goals and achievements in my last 3 years in my adulthood which shows me that I have a great work ethic, dedication, grace, vision, heart and determination. I believe a new “ERA” is beginning in 2012, I’ve decided to have a change my name, not as a person, but my identity. Just as Kobe Bryant changed his number at 24, we all know why, even though he is covering it that he supposedly he’s a step higher than Jordan (which is not true). I’ve decided to change my name to Dave Jefferson, reason why?  David Castaneda is a name that given by my parents and probably will always remember me by, also the people outside will remember who I am for a variety of things. To me, David Castaneda is no longer in this world. I would say I have simply changed over the course of years and decided for the last few years I wanted to change my full name.

Dave Jefferson is going be a different person than David Castaneda. Dave Jefferson I would say is going to be the evolution of higher standard. Jefferson is more of a patient, well-mannered, intelligent, communicative and smart individual oppose to David Castaneda who was a serious, intellectual, caring, charming, wired individual. People may have different views of me (David Castaneda). Dave Jefferson to me sounds like an intelligent and successful person in life that will have it well off and also an individual has achieved a lot in his life. Jefferson would be more ambitious and hungry to climb up the top and want more as he climbs the ladder of success. Jefferson a 5-7, 155, dark skinned, stands tall, sweater-vest and tie, with sophisticated eyeglasses individual who willing to travel and study more as he goes. Jefferson has high expectations to accomplish and success.