First-time viewer here. Excellent content and commentary. Good luck with your move to Tyler. It's a great town. I live about an hour away. Thanks for sharing your experience. Like & subscribed.
I retired in CA and a few weeks later my landlord said she was going to double my rent. So I went online and bought a small house in Tx for $23k cash. Now I have no rent no mortgage no bills no debt. So blessed.
Very nice! Would love to know where you found a $23k house in Texas. The prices have gone nuts since I left 4 years ago. Proving to be difficult to find one on my retirement. Just being patient and hoping things will improve with pricing and interest rates.
Sadly, due to most overspending when moving to Texas, house values are skyrocketing. Taxes and insurances are going crazy! Our $24k house was assessed at $85k! Utilities are much higher in small towns. Hoping you don't wind up unable to handle the taxes and insurances. We had to sell our retirement home.
Thanks Ralph! Coming home to Texas isn't a huge sacrifice, but I do miss my pool deck, drinking coffee and enjoying the view of the Sierra Madres Mountains. Who knows, maybe someday we can go back and ride off into a Philippine sunset. Until then, just enjoying being close to Mom and Dad and watching those incredible Texas sunsets!
Good luck on your move! We’ve watched some of your vlogs and remembered you mentioned your refrigerator connected to the water line for ice and water. Was wondering where you got your fridge with the water inlet? Thank you.
Actually having a water line to your Fridge is not a thing in the PI. The Fridge we purchased from Abensons, has a reservoir in the fridge side that we filled every 3 or 4 days. That reservoir was what fed the Ice Maker and allowed the Freezer door to have ice and water access. I survived on that ice and water during the heat of the summer!
Actually, that property reminds me of the 5 acres I owned in south central Texas, between San Marcos and Wimberley. Lost my job so I never built there, but it was so fun to camp on it while I owned it. sunsets were the best.
He already has. In just 4 short months he was able to overcome most if not all of the learning gaps brought about by how the Philippines handled education during the pandemic. We are pleased with our decision at this point!
I didn't explain well in this vlog. I didn't pay the home build contractor in full. We withheld the final 10 percent till it was finished. Some things got corrected so I released 5 %, but the rest never were addressed so to this day that has never been turned over. It's the other smaller jobs, or additionals. as they like to call it, that I mistakenly released funds only to never see the contractors again. My weakness is I am a trusting person until you give me a reason not to trust you. What seems to be all to common in the PI, is they start the job strong after your 50% down and then at some point as they near completion, they will ask for some more for more materials and next thing you know they are asking for the remainder to pay their workers food, salary, transportation, etc. I developed what I thought was a good working relationship with them, only to find out that once they have all their money, they will make excuse after excuse for why they can't finish right now, until they finally just ghost you. I am unfortunately, just way to trusting of folks. It's a Texas thing, I think .
Woodlands has always been one of the more pricier developments in the Houston area, but yep, prices have gone up everywhere by about 75% and interest rates suck right now. Hopeful the future will look brighter soon!
I’m in North Carolina. We are country similar to Texas. We have high schools with litter boxes because some students identify as “furries”. Hopefully your son has roots deep enough that he won’t be swayed by the culture here. I wish y’all the best.
I believe my son would think 50 times before ever coming home to tell me he is a cat 🤣. He knows his Pop Pa to well. If it ever happened, he knows he would get his cat tail end worn out! I did not know that North Carolina had gone that route. Sounds like something you might see in Austin 🙄.
That's a story that's been debunked. I would wager you know absolutely nothing about what's going on in schools and you don't really care. You're a fear-mongering gossip.
Yes he is sir. Has his Mom's long legs! Relishing those moments of infancy are a two edged sword. With all the good, comes some not so good . But as we say, this to shall pass!
I understand about having kids and being 66 myself anyways thanks for the update and you guys don't live to far from us here in Texas..And have a blessed week...
Brother Claude, enjoy your channel sir! Thanks for watching. If my memory serves me correct, you and Jessica are down near Victoria, is that right? And your correct, you do know what this is like. I am loving watching Ben grow up, but this old body of mine just can't do what it used to be able to do. Getting up and down off the floor is a challenge. We are about to head back over to the PI, but will be back before Genesis has to start back to school. Let's try to get together sometime! I could use some wise words from a man that has traveled this road.
Well, there you go again "Tutnetam" . Since when did 60 become an "Old Grandpa" ? Oh, Ben's mine for sure. Spitting image of me when I was his age. Really enjoying seeing him grow up! I have concluded, based on your comments to our vlogs, that you might just be my worst enemy on earth and I don't even know you! Oh, well, a little criticism never killed the cat!
You certainly got a full plate my friend but you have a good head on your shoulders and sounds to me like you have it all thought out in detail. Wishing your stepson the very best in his schooling in Texas and future military service plans. My wife daughter and I did pretty much the same thing and moved from the Philippines back to Boston in 2010 for her education as well. She excelled beyond our expectations and as I told you previously she was accepted to West Point Military Academy in New York. She’s always going to be my baby girl but she’s paving her own way in life now and making me the proudest Dad imaginable. Take care of yourself and your family brother and please keep us updated on your journey. P.S. The little guy laughing and giggling is absolutely precious and priceless 🤣😂❤🙏🏻✌🏻🇺🇸
Brother Charles! So good to hear from you sir. So far the school we were blessed to be able to enroll Genesis in, has been awesome and he is having to work his tail off for the first time ever, just to keep his head above the water. I'm cheering for him though!. I can hear the pride in your words brother, she sounds as if she has laid out an awesome path for herself and I will share her story with Genesis. He needs to know it's all worth it. He went from never even once having homework in the Philippines, to having 3 to 4 hours of school work every night. He was in shock, but has really seemed to get his focus after seeing all the students there making their academics their priority. I know, priceless is a good word to use!
@@rickbaker0217 Awesome 👏🏻 Genesis, You got this! He’ll be a perfect roll model for Little Benjamin too along with you and the Mrs. Of course. Thank you for the reply and always wishing you and your family the very best. Your Mom and Dad must also be ecstatic that you brought your family closer to them for the next few years.
The kids' education is important for sure, as is the career of your son... The immigration thing is important too... These days, it's really hard to get a visa, as you know... Prices are going to shock me, I'm sure when I get there again... It's been years since I've been back there, pretty much since retiring 25+ years ago from the Army I've remained overseas... The house is beautiful, don't blame you for keeping it... I think you're making the right decision... It'll be nice (if expensive) to travel back and forth... Best of luck with the coming move...I did that 14 times in 25 years... It's always painful... Cheers! 🙏🙏🙏 👍😎👍
Thanks for the kind words brother! And thank you for your service to the country 🙏. Funny thing is, since I made that Vlog, our lives have taken another turn. We are currently trying to decide if we want to try to hang on to the house as a summer place. So hard to see into the future. Just got to go with what gives me the most peace!
Austin is it's own little world in Texas and I can't say I am surprised Andrew. Not sure those folks in AISD have what's best for kids, in the forefront of their decisions. I am a firm believe you always do what's BEST FOR KIDS!
Little Benjamin what a blessing and his laugh. 😆So glad our paths crossed and thank you for your service as well as Genesis future plans enlisting in the best service, THE US AIR FORCE! As you know, Ghen and I are relocating later this year to the Philippines and your all's vlogs have come in handy. We love your house and the set up you have to include the pool. All new house builds have some type of issue even here in the good ol USA. Everyone's situation is different and your making a good choice for you and your family. 100% agree with your immigration comments, you know never these days. You do everything legal and get punished for that, do everything illegal and get every benefit under the sun. Anyway, thats a whole different subject. Ghen and I will be watching you all from afar and definitely will stay in touch.
Hey Chief! Thanks for watching brother. Yep, if a laugh like that can't put a smile on a persons face, I am not sure what would. And yes, rarely hear of a house build that goes perfectly. You nailed it on the immigration. Follow the law and you might just get screwed, break the law and you can't do any wrong. What's up with that! Oh well, I try to follow the law best I can. It's been a pleasure chatting with you. Looking forward to meeting you both in the future.
I look at what your doing for your son from one veteran to another he has a great head on his shoulders and with your Guidance he will become a awesome young man i wish him the best and a great Military Career . Tyvm for your service also and your sons Military service
Thanks brother, thank you for your service to country as well! I am doing my best, what he does with the opportunity, is all up to him. I am expecting his best!
Good luck to you and your family. I wish the education in the Philippines was like it was when I was growing up. But I must say it has declined not only in PI but everywhere and you just have to look at your situation in detail and not generalize things. With your experience in life I’m sure you will make the right decisions. Good luck!
I can agree with the statement that educational standards have declined everywhere. Attributable to many things I suppose. Smart devices (which I think just make folks dummer), decline in family values and just an overall belief that Everything and anything is acceptable. My thoughts anyway!
Hey sir! My name is Dave Kerns and I’m from near Paris , Texas. I’ve lived here in metro Manila for 8 years now. My wife and I are wanting to relocate to a more rural area of the islands. Please let me know should you want to lease your property year to year until we build our own home.😊
Always nice to meet a fellow Texan brother David! If you have survived in Metro Manila for 8 years, then you are a better man than I sir . I can remember when Jenn and I were dating, 1 week in Metro Manila liked to drove me nuts. The short answer on your question is I am not a fan of leasing. I did it once with a home I have in the Dominican Republic and I have regretted it ever since. We are taking steps to potentially sell our home in Cuyapo. If we decide to go through with that, I will put out a vlog to that affect. Thanks for watching sir!
Hi there! I’m new to your channel and I’m really enjoying it. I wanted to share my thoughts on education in the Philippines. Based on our experience, private schools in major cities like Metro Manila often offer higher standards, but they can be quite expensive. I can relate to that feeling of disappointment when moving to a smaller area or country. My daughter attended a prestigious private school in Manila, and we were definitely satisfied with the quality of education. They've supported us during the pandemic, all online resources where provided and they did their best for the kids to learn during lockdown. Now that we’re in the province, I’ve noticed that the standards, whether private or public, don’t always match what we’re used to.
I have heard similar accounts from others Maribel and I am glad that your children didn't suffer to the degree that many others did. We tried schools in Cavite, Balanga City and Cuyapo, but none ever met the standards that I wanted for our son. I was not willing to go into Manila to get that standard simply because I am not and never will be a Big City guy. I love the environment and pace of the rural areas. So deciding to come home to get Genesis what he needed to overcome all the learning gaps, made sense to me. In 4 short months, he has overcome most if not all of the gaps that were brought about by the Philippines handling of education during the pandemic. I think we made a good decision, but only time will tell. Appreciate you sharing your experience!
There are a lot of good schools in ph and maybe not around your area so keep looking. Private and international schools. You don’t have to sacrifice your remaining life going back to USA and doing it again. There are also a lot of online school nowadays and they are international too.
Three different cities and multiple public and private schools, but sadly were never able to find one that actually made academics a priority. We have him in a good one now though. He made more progress there than he did in the prior 3 years. No complaints thought Vegas, Love me some Texas and Miss My Philippines!
I thought you had a similar accent as me. I no longer live there but I’m from Tyler. We likely know many of the same people. I wish you all the best in your move.
there is nothing more consistent than change. Fortunately you made choices that will benefit the family. The greatest achievement I have accomplished was being a parent.
I haven't. And if we hadn't decided to get Genesis additional opportunities in his education, that would be a must. Cool thing is, in just two more years, they can both apply for their US Citizenship!
Genesis was in the middle of his Freshman year and the schools were not closing any of his learning gaps brought about by locking kids out of school for 2.5 years during COVID. The school in Texas he attends, closed all those gaps in the last 4 months of his Freshman year of High School.
Hello from Frisco 👍 Me and my boys recently went to the Tyler Zoo. white tigers were a memorable hit. Thanks for sharing the story. I can’t imagine selling all my stuff here only to end up back in the states. Sounds like you are making the best of it. And real estate is improving; we’ve already lost 50K on our purchase two years ago 😂 so it’s not all bad news for your timing.
Hey Michael! Hope all is well in Frisco. Yes sir, the white tiger is pretty cool to see. Yes, crazy to even think about it, but hard to see into the future sometimes. Hate that your possibly taking a hit on your home value, but I figured it might happen at some point. Just hope it doesn't dissolve into a 2008 scenario. That was bad for everyone, accept buyers.
Not sure, but most likely not. Honestly though, if there are mandatory attendance laws, I am pretty sure they are not followed or enforced. I have many young children that do not attend a school. Now during COVID, we had no choice but to school at home.
Best wishes to your move back. Im in the Dallas area Collin County and I can tell you a lot of things have doubled in price here the last five years. Its still a great place to live but not a lower cost of living like it was. I love the Philippines and staying there 3 or 4 months a year is a great way to go...best of both worlds.
Sounds like you have a plan Roadwarrior! I was raised in Richardson, so you would have been down Hwy. 75 a piece. Yep, definitely still more affordable in the PI. That I will miss for sure. With Genesis in school, we are limited to just a month or so each summer and that might even be less next year as he is hoping to get a part time job when he turns 16. Once he graduates though, we will see what happens then!
@@rickbaker0217 I would like to have a nice house in my Filipina's home town but it would be hard keeping a house here in Plano and another there also.
❤ Kids need to wear uniforms also School shouldn't be a fashion show. My dad had money and then I did so I was okay infact above but I felt so bad for the kids that didn't . Self esteem is turned into a problem .
I’m a teacher in Houston for HISD. I will tell you to get into a good school District with good services. I understand that education is so very important and you’re trying to do your best. This is the first time I’ve watched your video and I truly hope everything goes smoothly. Take care look me up when you get back Texas. Andreas Johnson
Hey Andrea! Appreciate you watching. Always nice to meet a fellow Texan. I actually graduated High School just outside of HISD, in Sugarland. I went to John Foster Dulles back when it was the only high school in Fort Bend ISD. I know, I am old . I think we found a good fit for Genesis and he finished up his 9th grade on solid ground. Had to work his butt off to do it though and he has been in shock since he never had homework in the Philippines and now averages 3 to 4 hours a night just to keep his head above water. He is making it happen though!
Great video.i can relate my baby is 3 now and his sister is 6 and it's a good feeling to be able to be home to help raise them .I didn't get to spend much time with my 4 older boys due to working all the time.we had thoughts on moving to Philippines but being my daughter has autism we figured it was best for her to be in the school system here .plus now that I have been diagnosed with cancer I need the best medical I can get.i also can relate to having a house and it being peaceful although we don't live in texas.we are surrounded by farms here in the mountains of New York and the only noise we really hear are the farm tractors in the back field.your baby boy looks more like you than your wife.your son is getting so big quickly.
Thanks brother Les! So you have walked in my shoes already. It sounds like even though we are from very different worlds, we have a lot in common. You made the right move staying here with an autistic child. The PI has zero services available to help these special children. If NY is anything like Texas, all teachers are trained on how to teach children with Autism and your daughter is better off in that scenario. My sister in law has an autistic child and the school system there has no clue how to help him. And that is in the middle of Metro Manila. How much worse would it be out in the province. The description of your home sounds more like a ranch here in East Texas than what I imagine New York to look like. Sounds absolutely perfect! Ben did inherit my wife's eyelashes .
My Filipina wife and 2 stepchildren, 8 and 10 moved to Allen, Texas last July 13. My motivation for moving was to give my family the opportunity to obtain US Citizenship and education for the children. The schools here in Allen are among the best in Texas. The kids were enrolled in ESL and tested in the highest level last month after 1 school year. Anyway, I agree that you are making the best decision as a husband and father. Question and comment: I receive Social Security and with my wife and kids now being Permanent Residents the children qualify for Children’s Social Security Benefits. My children receive $1,235 each every month and will until they graduate from High School. My children are my stepchildren and I haven’t adopted them yet and they still qualify. The reason I mention this is to see if you might get the same type of benefits. Check it out. The kids total benefit of $2,470 monthly is calculated by taking 80% of my SS. That’s the total maximum allowable. All minor children and step children of a SS recipient are eligible. Good luck and if I can do anything here in Texas to help prepare for your arrival please let me know.
Marc, did I know you were up in Allen? I don't think I did, but you are only about 2 hours from us. I knew I felt close to you . So here is what I know about SS. I am vested in it from all the other jobs I had growing up and military pay from all my years of working and serving, however, I was told that because I have a Texas Teachers Retirement, I am not eligible to draw on my SS when the time comes a year from now. What I do believe is when I kick the bucket, my TRS retirement pension goes away and then my wife and children will hopefully be able to draw from my SS at that time. Don't know that for sure, but it's worth looking in to it for them. Appreciate you sharing your situation, and hopefully I can get some answers for the future.
To bad you had to move back unplanned, although temporarily. It certainly creates extra costs but the future of your kids is probably worth it. Ps. Don't feel bad, sometimes things just go wrong. I certainly not going to blame you for what happened.
I think it's worth a shot to give Genesis a better opportunity for his future. Bottomline is it will ultimately be up to him what he makes of the opportunity. You have never given me the impression that you were blaming me for the poor customer service of others. I just know that some have acted off of my good experience and it has not worked out so well for them. That is what makes me feel poorly. I will be correcting it in the near future though. My good service has taken a 180 degree turn recently and I am not afraid to share it!
Hello Rick - Just a short note about your vlogs. Sometimes they seem long winded. I guess I’m more of a get to the bottom line type person. But it’s your show. Much respect to you for your military service.
No worries Joe, never claimed to not ramble now and then . It's just how my 61 year old brain works. I don't script anything so I just have to pull it out of the old brain and sometimes it lags!
Sad to see you go. But, this is truly the right reason and the right time to give him the best chance ever. Also, I understand that a foreign spouse must have lived in the U.S. as a permanent resident for some number of years before she could collect you social security if, god forbid, that is ever necessary. Please “check” that Social Security “box” so that the benefit is not lost! Best of luck!
That is super kind Paul 🤣. It is for sale if you would like to look after it long term! I'm going to miss that truck. Can't find anything in the states that even comes close.
Hello my friend I agree with you 100% you’re a good man to take care of your stepchild, but it is like your own child as a wonderful thing you were doing for that person to make sure he has a good education much about the Filipino education, my daughter is now in the states. She is starting school now at 3 1/2, but I told My Wife we will stay here in America until she gets through high school. I wanted to have a good education here in the states even though it’s not the best but it’s better than most so it’s all about the children and give them the best give them why you are with them, I wish you the best in the states when you come back take care always because we moved from Chicago to Rockford Illinois. Your wife said congratulations to us on Facebook. Tell her thank you very much and we will see you guys soon. Take care God bless.
Scott, so good to hear from you brother! I appreciate, as always, your kind comments. I think keeping your child stateside to get her education is a solid move and will benefit her in many ways. It all comes down to what your expectations are as a parent, for your child's education. Philippines is great, but my academic bar for Genesis is way higher than what I have seen here to date. Three years left of school, we did not have the luxury of waiting to see if things improve. Take care of your self brother and glad to know you got your family to a safer environment!
Thanks for the kind words brother! I feel a kinship. 97% of my DNA hales from the British Isles!! I will visit my ancestorial homeland someday. It's on my bucket list. I kind of imagine myself wearing that kilt, riding that horse, and yelling "Freedom", like that scene in Braveheart! But without the whole head chopping off thing!
Cool video-I also have a pension as a school psychologist-31 years-after my ex (from Lapu Lapu) divorced-decided best for the girls stay in the 🇺🇸 and of course my ex got the house so she is staying in the 🇺🇸!
Hurts my heart to hear that Barry. I have been down the divorce road twice and each time was like starting over. I am hoping life will bring you good things in the future. I probably should have given up on ever finding love again after failing twice, just trusted God had something even better in store for me. Time shall tell. Thanks for watching!
You know I would love hanging out with you brother! I'll be back soon so that Genesis can get ready for the 10th grade. Hope you are well and great to hear from you!
It’s great to see you back in Cuyapo. Hopefully you won’t be trading one set of issues for another. I’m glad my kids are both out of school, so I don’t have to reprogram them from everything some teacher with a rainbow hairdo just tried teaching. But you are blessed to be retired, and in a great position to help steer Genesis in the right direction… As for the military, they don’t seem to realize that all their woke/trans/lgbtq stuff is NOT helping recruiting, it’s hurting. This country needs war fighters, not cross dressers…That’s just my opinion 🇺🇸 I’ll be back in Texas in August, let’s see if we can get together for lunch!
Hey brother Karl! Couldn't agree with you more. You took the words right out of my mouth. I am hopeful that by the time Genesis gets into the Air Force, they will have shifted their focus back to the Mission and away from the fringe. Yes, let's get together when you head to the Lone Star State!
Congratulations to you both on the birth of your blessed new baby and best of luck! You'll always have my full support. Best regards/Ned👍👏👍 P.S. By the way, these are fruit bats not birds🦇🦇🦇
Thanks brother Ned! I have seen bats swoop down to drink out of the pool before, but had never seen more than one or two. This was a flock and they moved like Martins. But, you may be right brother!
@@rickbaker0217 They always come out after dusk to feed. And after feeding, they return to their roosts to sleep out the rest of the nigh... Good luck po/Ned 🎉
You guys are in the province! The best schools are in Manila and some of the main cities. Please do not generalize the quality of education in the Philippines based on your experience.
I wasn't trying to offend anyone, these are my experiences and and my decisions that were formed from watching the DepEd system in both public and private settings. From Cavite to Nueva Ecija. I did not witness any differences when it came to Not Putting Kids First. I spent my entire adult career in the education system and I believe I have a pretty good grasp of what is needed to help kids excel, and never saw any doing what it takes in the 4 years I was in country. I keep hearing the "best schools are in Manila". Why is that? What is it about Manila that makes it the only place that is capable of providing a quality education? If I were a Filipino, that is the question I would be asking ALL of the leadership of the DepEd. All schools fall under their leadership whether in the city or the province and if the adults in charge are really in it for the right reasons, then that quality education should be achievable anywhere. Why must the bar be lowered just because one chooses to live in natures beauty and not in the concrete jungle? Regardless, as I said, this my opinion and in no way is meant to say that every educator in the Philippines is of poor quality, it's simply saying that what is, could be so much better if they only put the children first. Appreciate you watching!
I think you meant to type Mabank! Small world, Mabank was my very first High School Administrator position. I was there for 4 years before moving on to Pine Tree ISD.
I am with you on education being a reason to be back in the US. The education system in the Philippines does suck. The covid reaction there was insane. The modules that I seen were way to hard for the age of the kid. We can afford private school and they also suck in the Philippines. The length of time they are stuck in school is crazy to me. We have a 2nd grader in US school in South Dakota now. So it would be a conservative place similar to TX. The point is that I don't think it is as great of an education that I thought it would be. I am more a proponent of home school. That is probably the future of our kids school. If I were you I would just keep the house for now and let that play out. Who knows what decision you will make in the future.
Already made the move Cory. Genesis is actually attending an excellent Christ centered College Prep school that is also an international boarding school. He really seems to love it and I am keeping tabs on it and thus far have encountered an incredible academic focused learning environment. I believe God led us to the right place. I am a fan of homeschooling also, if it's done right with the right curriculum. In our case though, it really wasn't an option for Genesis since we will have two infants in the house. To much interruption!
@@rickbaker0217 Either option is better than the Filipino education. My kids are just starting school and I have no interest in Filipino public or private school. I would just keep all the stuff in the Philippines in case you change your mind.
I think so to. Not sure about the year of residing, but if that is correct, he will meet that requirement , no problem. After next school year, we will start digging into preparing him for the ASVAB!
When cov hit I was in America getting surgery and my youngest son was getting married and I was trapped from going back to my Philipina girlfriend ,3 years we were apart , I decided to retire at 62 and not wait till 65 , I did the math and if I waited till 65 thats 3 years lost of monthly checks . I'm so glad i retire because I did 5 years Army then 31 years coal mining operator . I've been back in the Philippines sense march 2023 .
Yep, that whole keep the world out for 3 years was pure lunacy if you ask me. Of course if you had been there and you were over 60, they would have locked you in your home anyway, which is also ludicrous. I hope they never forget how much all of that harmed people. Glad you are back where you want to be brother!
“Don’t make a permanent decision based on temporary problems.” Ever hear of a U.S. based curriculum homeschool program? There are many. You said you were a former educator. Apply those skills. As for immigration visas, Guam every six months and then go see the Air Force recruiters in a couple of years. They conduct their annual visits to the RAO in Angeles City/Cavite/Subic. Sounds like someone may have convinced you to convince yourself.
All good points brother, but there is a bit more detail to it all. Homeschooling is a viable option, but with two infants in the house, I just felt there would be to many interruptions for Genesis to effectively concentrate on his academics. I was also hearing that the whole Guam every six months was no guarantee to not having visas pulled by a gung-ho CBP officer at the airport. They were to hard to get to risk loosing them. Ultimately, I have peace in my heart with the decisions. I believe that is all that matters!
I read many of the comments about moving back to the US being a mistake. Most , I assume don't live here. From all I've observed from being here 5 years with my Filipina and her two girls , I will say...A bad education in the US would be 10X better than a so called good education here !
I would have to say I agree with that assessment. At least as I have observed. I know my bar is high having been an educator for 31 years, but I also recognize, when doing what's best for kids isn't happening.
Not making any sense to me. But that's pretty standard. There are private schools in PH that are serious. There's also home schooling. Experienced educator, knowns how he wants his kids educated, retired so plenty of time...soooo let's move to Texas? I get Tubers don't like to say what's really going on, but it's nice when the story makes some sense. This is a good example for guys thinking single moms, no big deal. Kids dominate a guy's life. How many guys get on a dating site hoping to find a single mom? Guessing zero. But hot looking friendly Filipina says "Hi" and he's down. I hear guys say Filipinas are submissive to their guy. Looks to me like most guys are submissive to their Filipina. She sets the basic rule of "you have to raise my kids" and then allows the guy to do that how he sees fit. It's like the parent tactic of giving a child 2 choices. "You can have peas for dinner or green beans. Which would you like?" The kid feels like they have a choice, but nope. I was chatting with a great Filipina online, widow, 3 great boys, truly. She was very well to do, no problem providing for her boys. I initially thought 3 boys, no big deal. But as I thought about my options like where I wanted to live the boys had to dictate my plans. No way would it be fair to them to pull them out of their school, away from friends, and set them down where I wanted to live. Maybe I'd want to move again. Maybe to a different country. I ended that and no more online stuff. I'll want to be in country, look around and find some places I'd like to live, then maybe look for a wife. The bottom line for me was if kids were OK, then why shouldn't they be my kids? Seemed to me like I had a self-esteem and/or White Knight issue. OK to raise another man's kids, but not my own kids? Silly. I'd rather provide for my own kids if given the choice. And I do have that choice.
Well Waterbug, I typed a super long response to your comments and before I could submit it, I hit something on the keypad and it just disappeared 😩. So, here I go again with a hopefully abbreviated version. During the COVID fiasco, we were homeschooling, as we had no choice. Genesis faired better than most Filipino children simply because he had a mom and dad that valued education. But as a former educator, I know the best place for kids is in the classroom with a motivated teacher, having those relevant discussions with teachers and other students. So as we were able, we sent Genesis back to his public school. The start up after having kids locked down for two and a half years, was beyond chaotic and zero learning happened that year. We then enrolled him in a very well respected private school out in the province, only to find out that private and public are both controlled by the DepEd, so we saw very little difference between the two environment accept we paid for one and not the other. After two years of watching school cancelled frequently for no reason, or dismissed early for no reason given, zero communication with teachers and I even had a Principal pretend to be office staff to try to avoid a conversation about the learning expectations. I had seen enough. My son and his classmates were really good at making TikTok dance videos during the school day, but lacked any other learning that could ascertain. All while maintaining a straight A average. I don't say any of this to trash anyone. I am simply sharing OUR experience. Maybe had we lived in Makati or BGC, we might have had a different experience, but we made our home where my wife was raised. And perhaps for most, the system works for them. I suppose it was just me that was struggling with it, knowing what Genesis wanted to do in his future, I felt he had to do better to function in the Air Force environment. I didn't make this vlog to convince anyone that they should not educate a child in the Philippines. You do what you have access to. But the sole purpose was just to share why we were making such an abrupt move. We were going to visit my family anyway, we just decided to make it for the next three years at least. Hope that makes more sense to you sir. Appreciate you!
Did you ever think about enrolling your son in military school in the USA.. talk to a immigration attorney about his immigration and going into the military.. it is super expensive to live in the USA in today's world.. if he was in military school you can talk to him everyday on WhatsApp.. you and your wife could come back to the the Philippines and live in your house and save a lot of money doing it that way and I think you would be happier..the military school would be a sure way of him getting into any branch of the military that he wanted and a great education on top of that.. just a thought from my pea brain for today.. I was thinking a way to help you out and you would not have to give up your beautiful house.. if you move back to the USA it might even give you a heart attack from all of this stress.. I am planning on leaving in a couple of months for my last time and I don't ever plan on coming back.. I am 70 years old and I plan on dying in the Philippines.. my girl does not like to discuss anything to do with death but she is going to have to because I am paying for my services and hopefully cremation.. of course after we die we never know what they're going to do with us and of course it really does not matter any more to us..hehe..I wish you and your family all the best..
Hey Richard, appreciate you trying to help sir. But no, I did not look into military schools and I actually don't even know of any. Genesis is attending Brook Hill School which is a Christ centered College Prep school that has an international boarding school as well. We honestly could not afford the boarding school or we could have done what you suggest, at Brook Hill. And yes, it is super expensive to live here now, but Brook Hill has really helped this old disabled vet and thanks to their generosity, we are making ends meet. The house is already sold and in just two weeks, it will not be ours anymore. Yes, that makes me super sad, but I believe the choice we have made, will pay dividends in the future in so many ways. We have not given up on our dream of living out the rest of my life in the Philippines and after a few years and Genesis heads off to the Air Force, we will reevaluate and see what God has in store for us next!
@@rickbaker0217 yes sir I understand.. I admire you for doing the right thing.. I really love that house and I really wanted to buy it but thank you for telling me it is sold.. everything in today's world is super expensive.. I wish you all the best my friend and I will be watching your videos to see how you are doing..
That is exactly what we are doing. Never thought it would be this difficult to afford a home in my beloved home of Texas. But wow, how things changed in 4 short years.
Hi there. Your vlog showed up on my feet and ironically, I'm here in Llano vicinity. I'm a Filipina married to a rancher. I grew up and met my husband here. This is both our 2nd marriage.. I used to have my 2 children in a private Christian School. I will tell you that they too are being affected with this "social engineering" garbage that they have been pushing in public schools. In a city about 1.5 hours from us where a lot of Californians have settled, the public schools are no longer grading children. They just keep passing them to the next grade. I've heard that some of the kids, 4th graders can barely read. Earlier this year, I had to go into Austin and on my way back home, I stopped by at a fast food place to buy something to tie me over. It was inexpensive but the kid who was at the drive-thru could not even subtract simple math under $10. He had to grab his phone to do the calculation. The math was so simple, my 10 year old daughter would have known the calculations. They also like passing school bonds. That City recently passed an $1.8 billion dollar bond last year and they voted to pass another $1.6billion bond this year. This is one school district. I heard there's another school bond that they want people to vote on that's worth $950 million. So, every year, this school district is getting almost 2 billion dollars. I'm saying this because it seems to be spreading throughout Texas and that's going to affect everybody. Property taxes are going to go up and usually, the increase in price gets trickled down to the renters. I also have rental properties which I bought before I was married. They don't see that that's how you ruin states. Things are higher here in Texas because of all the people who have moved from other states. There's a very strong gentrification going on here. My husband and I decided to homeschool our 5 children. I've owned my own business even before we were married. We hired a local school teacher who didn't want to participate in what they were pushing here 3 years ago so she quit. We hired her to homeschool our children on our ranch along with our nieces, nephews, our ranch hand's children and one of our friend's children. Total of 14 children ranging from 1st grade to 11th grade. She is being compensated very well. We also provide breakfast and lunch to everyone and 90% of the food is grown here on our ranch. Home cooked. The teacher lives nearby and usually comes to school on her horse 😊 part of her compensation is supplying her with what we grow here on our ranch and giving her beef and chicken. All truly organic. My family and I are doing the opposite. We are considering moving to the Philippines. Things are really bad here. And it seems to be getting worse everyday. I pray that things get better but we don't see it. We don't see things getting better. The border is wide open. My husband and my brother-in-law's we recently at a family friend's ranch South of San Antonio helping them because they are getting invaded with illegals. I don't know how things are in Tyler. I'm sure it's similar to the Austin area. It's definitely not the Texas we grew up in. One more advice, just watch your children very closely and who is around them. Storytime is not the same storytime we grew up with. Look over every single book they are reading. Many of the books that are in public schools are pornographic. One of our good friends whose children were in public school has their children with our homeschool. It's nice to see good men, good father doing the right thing. Safe travels with you and your family. God bless.
Well Jessica, I replied with a very lengthy message and must have hit a wrong button and poof it was gone . In a nut shell what I was saying to you was the area you live in, although beautiful, has leaned far left for as long as I can remember. It does not surprise me that those districts in that area are doing the same. Additionally your proximity to what I still call Fort Hood, hasn't helped as the military community has also gone "Woke". I think what you are doing with the homeschooling is awesome and your kids will benefit for it. As for Genesis, we were blessed to get him into a Christ centered college prep International boarding school, whose founder has fought to keep the school, faculty and students focused on what is most important. Genesis has really had his eyes opened about what a real education is. When we left the Philippines, he and his classmates were very good at TikTok dancing, but not much else. He now has 3 hours a night of good solid academic homework and has to work his butt off just to keep his head above water. As for the immigration disaster that is currently destroying communities nationwide, I pray that in the next 7 months we will start to see a sharp reversal in that border invasion. The world has to know we are a nation of laws and laws that people must follow to benefit from it. I truly miss my retired life in the Philippines, but if there are children's educations at stake, I encourage you to think twice. Education really does seem to be just a joke in the culture and no one challenges it. Very frustrating to see adult educators, starting with the school leadership, having no sense of urgency to recover all the learning lost during their crazy COVID shutdown. I better send this before it disappears!
Rick .they pulled a friends wifes green card because of their lacck of time in the US and believe it or not, not being allowed to travel during covid was not a good enough excuse
The Philippines is a developing country. I’m not surprised that their education system isn’t very good. Why don’t you let your son have a cell phone? You cannot get by in today’s world without a cell phone. Kids use them for all kinds of education stuff these days. Hope it works out.
Sometimes kids make poor choices and privileges are taken away. Thus no cell phone at the moment. He get's by just fine without it. An Ipad is available for educational purposes only. Appreciate you watching.
Can somebody explain why the USof A has such a hardon against the Pinos ? I live in the Caribbean and find them great as employees honest ethical intelligent and hardworking . USA will not give them a travel visa to pass through . So they have to pay big bucks to fly via Europe Middle East to get home for visit . Americans have been in and using Ph for over 80 yrs but no respect !!
Not really sure what point you are trying to make Rob. I am married to a Filipina and have many family and friends in the Philippines. I have a great deal of respect for each of them, until they give me cause not to. I have had a similar experience with my home in the Dominican. What I have always said is when there is money involved, both places seem to leave ethics and morals at the door. Probably holds true for many other places around the world. I rarely run into that trait here in the US.
I accidentally fell upon your channel, and you have the most interesting situation I have seen of any expat. Sir, I commend you. Just hearing your story about the main reason you are moving back to the US is so family first, it'sbeautiful. Being an educator, you would know, and thanks for bringing up those points about the nonsensical ways of the education system over there. Kinda like Philippines time. I haven't moved there yet, and I have been trying since the demon floated down the escalator with Morticia in 2015 and changed the world by announcing he was running for the most powerful person on thecplanet, and the wirkd hasn'tbeen the same since. Between Covid19, my sister's death, coping issues, loss of business, and now at 68 about to come there, and China is acting a fool, the volcano erupts... The plan is still to come and land in a paradise island of the Philippines. Thanks for the content, I will subscribe. 💯 please do the same.
Appreciate you watching sir! I figure I already had my opportunity to have a positive impact on a larger scale during my 31+ years of being an educator, and now that I have hung that up, it's time to concentrate on making an impact closer to home. My children setting themselves on a strong path to self-sufficiency is my goal and what I hope will be my legacy. I'm very sorry to hear of your personal tragedies. Don't give up on your dream. If it's to move to the PI, then make it happen! You and I may be on complete polar opposites of the political spectrum, but I have no doubt that we could agree that a retirement life on one of the 7000+ islands in the Philippines, is a good way to close out a good life!
I understand. I got out of Houston when I left for the Air Force and never went back. Went to High School there, but the Houston area just wasn't my cup of tea. Got to East Texas as fast as I could!
Thought about that for two whole seconds Robert 🤣, then remembered I did that for 31 years and retired from it. I like retirement! Besides, any private school in the Philippines still falls under DepEd and I thing that is part of the problem, in my opinion.
The quality of education in the United States is on the decline. You should have considered a private school and tutoring in the Philippines at a lower cost compared to mediocre schooling here in the states. Everything costs 2x-3x more compared to 10 years ago. Not sure what your pension/ retirement finances are like but you might have to go back to work if you plan on enrolling the kids into private school. The overall public school system in the USA is in bad shape. Good luck.
I can't argue with what your saying Angel. I know even the area I am from in East Texas, has changed since I left education 4 years ago. We did try public and private in the Philippines, but we saw absolutely zero difference between them. The DepEd controls both public and private so they are truly identical in every sense of the word. At least that is what we found out in the province. My son and his classmates were awesome at making TikTok dance videos, which they did often in school, but as for academics, he saw first hand how far behind he was the first week he was here in Texas. Yes, the biggest shock for us was the cost of living having doubled since I left in 2021. Our saving grace is that the private school we enrolled him in here was super kind to take my retirement income into consideration and what I could not pay, they covered with scholarships. It will all work out, I'm trusting it!
I live in Texas, unless your willing to fund a private education for your kids in America, your mistaken about America being better for a normal good education, things in America are going south daily, even in Texas.
Which is why I prefaced all of that with "if things haven't changed". I figured things might have changed somewhat in the four years I have been out of the system. We were blessed to find a Christian College Prep school that also happens to be an international boarding school, so they have done wonderful by Genesis so far.
He has NO CHOICE! THE PHILIPINA WATS HER USA CITIZENSHIP LOL he will work to DEATH TO PROVIDE FOR HER KID AND SHE WIKL BRUNG ENDLESS FAMILY IN USA! the dude is nothing but used idiot
Why so depressing Tutnetam? I am starting to feel sorry for your disposition. My wife actually had no desire to immigrate. It is I that pushed the issue so that when I depart from this earth, she would have options. My guess is, now that we are going to the US, when I am gone, she will most likely move back to her home country with family and friends. I am not sure why you think I am having to "work to death" to provide for my family, but we just live off of my retirement. I did work my butt off to have a good retirement, so now I can just enjoy the effort I put in to get here. As for her family all coming to the US, that isn't happening. They are all perfectly happy where they are now. Lighten up and try not to be so critical of a family that you only know through vlogs. Regardless, stay safe always!
If you really look at the VA and what is happening, i don't believe your son will ever have the military retirement or benefits that we, as veterans, have today. Just look at what Virginia just stripped away. I hope you really look at what a military career looks like in 5, 10, and 20 years. It will not be like following in your footsteps. VA disability will be gone!
As long as the military is offering a 20 year retirement it is still the best deal around. Not sure what you mean by the way the VA is today. I am finally getting benefits that I should have gotten 15 years ago. I guess it really matters who the President is.
The system needs to change for VA disability. You have too many Vets chasing higher ratings by physically harming themselves or lying on documents. I have a neighbor who spent 4 yrs active then worked 25yrs as a long haul trucker. He's currently at 80% VA disability and he started is claim 5 yrs ago. He's blaming every issue he has on the Military and getting most of it approved when it's obvious the 25yrs working as a trucker was the real cause of his issues. I retired after 20yrs in the Military then drove 25yrs I received a rating after retiring then after driving 25yrs my back went out. It clear to me the 25yrs of driving is the reason for my back issues so why should I take money from Vets that really deserve it and file a claim when I really don't need the money although an extra 3k per month could go along way towards buying toys for myself and my wife.
You may be right Vinnie, but Genesis and I have never talked about Disability benefits as the reason to serve. Our conversations have focused on comradery, team work, acquired skills, and yes, a pay check, health care and educational benefits. You can bet we also spoke about sense of purpose and serving others. Even if there wasn't a dime of disability on the other end, I would do it all over again. There will always be those that try to game the system, but if I do my job right, he won't be one of those. I am trying hard to get across to him the need to be an honest and honorable man. No guarantees he will be, but that is how he will be raised.
That can and does happen Mark. To avoid such a thing, we have a caretaker and family there so hopefully we won't find that scenario when we return next week.
Don't ever remember saying he wanted to join the Army? . But yes, he will finish his last three years here at Brook Hill and then off to the Air Force! I do have a dry sense of humor, but in this case, No Joke!
I understand, but this wasn't about the quality of my retirement. I have to put that on hold until my stepson graduates and then we will see what happens. Appreciate you watching!
I have two kids in the Philippines. Would never think about putting my kids in school in the USA. Couldn't pay me enough. Garbage schools and woke bs. I could place my kids anywhere in the world but choose the Philippines for early schooling. once they get older they can do collage anywhere in the world. You give up your paradise in the Philippines for woke schools in the US?? Your kids will not only loose their heritage and language but any sense of being a Filipino. Spent 30 Years in Texas and have two kids there now 20 and 22. You are absolutely crazy to leave the Philippines. Not only do you give you up your retirement paradise but you will ruin your kids for life.
Well Niklas, I can tell you have a strong opinion on the subject and that's ok brother. You do you and I 'll do me. I know my country has plenty of problems, haven't seen a country yet that doesn't, but It's still my country and I haven't given up on it. Where Genesis is going to school is an incredible Christ centered college prep school with an international boarding school on campus. It is an incredible environment and he is overcoming learning gaps that were brought about by the Philippines locking kiddos out of schools for 2+ years. I saw no effort to overcome those gaps by the staff in the schools he attended there. Thus the move. No woke stuff going on in the school he is attending and I am keeping a close eye just in case. Hope I never do anything that is going to ruin my kiddos!
I know, right! They did not do right by children here in the Philippines during the pandemic and as a result, they all have huge learning gaps and the effort to help children overcome those gaps, is proving to be a very slow process. Genesis has a much better opportunity at the school he going to in Bullard!
First-time viewer here. Excellent content and commentary. Good luck with your move to Tyler. It's a great town. I live about an hour away. Thanks for sharing your experience. Like & subscribed.
Appreciate you MJ! And yes, Tyler is a great place to live I'm not used to seeing subscribers from East Texas, but glad to have you aboard!
I grew up in Palestine and Tyler. Now in Waco. ETx is God's country for sure
I live in TX too . 1 hr and 20 minutes from DFW. Welcome back soon to TX!! Cheers!!
Great place to live, Texas! Thanks for watching!
I live in Coleman Tx. 190 miles from Dallas. Hope to ride my bicycle there next week. If it’s not too hot
I retired in CA and a few weeks later my landlord said she was going to double my rent. So I went online and bought a small house in Tx for $23k cash. Now I have no rent no mortgage no bills no debt. So blessed.
Very nice! Would love to know where you found a $23k house in Texas. The prices have gone nuts since I left 4 years ago. Proving to be difficult to find one on my retirement. Just being patient and hoping things will improve with pricing and interest rates.
@@rickbaker0217
Coleman Tx. Very small city and a very small home. But it keeps the cold off me in winter and the heat off me in summer. I’m happy
Sadly, due to most overspending when moving to Texas, house values are skyrocketing. Taxes and insurances are going crazy! Our $24k house was assessed at $85k! Utilities are much higher in small towns.
Hoping you don't wind up unable to handle the taxes and insurances. We had to sell our retirement home.
@@teresasalisbury4748
I paid cash. I don’t have insurance.
My property taxes are $314 last year
Did you sell your Horses Cowboy?
Much respect to you. Not many would sacrifice their lives for their kids future like that. You're the man !!!
Thanks Ralph! Coming home to Texas isn't a huge sacrifice, but I do miss my pool deck, drinking coffee and enjoying the view of the Sierra Madres Mountains. Who knows, maybe someday we can go back and ride off into a Philippine sunset. Until then, just enjoying being close to Mom and Dad and watching those incredible Texas sunsets!
Sacrifice is from GOD, character. Then you have thousands of years of survival of fitness, human support. It's our own minds that can be danger.
There's nothing more adorable than a babies giggle.You look so very happy.Im so happy for you.Gods Speed.
Hey brother Paul! So sorry we have been absent so long sir. Hope you are well. Agreed, that laugh could put a smile on anyone's face!
Mix race baby 🤮
Not that I am objective, but he is one beautiful and smart little man!
Good luck on your move! We’ve watched some of your vlogs and remembered you mentioned your refrigerator connected to the water line for ice and water. Was wondering where you got your fridge with the water inlet? Thank you.
Actually having a water line to your Fridge is not a thing in the PI. The Fridge we purchased from Abensons, has a reservoir in the fridge side that we filled every 3 or 4 days. That reservoir was what fed the Ice Maker and allowed the Freezer door to have ice and water access. I survived on that ice and water during the heat of the summer!
Actually, that property reminds me of the 5 acres I owned in south central Texas, between San Marcos and Wimberley. Lost my job so I never built there, but it was so fun to camp on it while I owned it. sunsets were the best.
Now that is beautiful country! Love that side of
I-35, such pretty scenery.
Newly subscribed! Thanks for sharing your story/vlog. Good luck with the move~
Your welcome and thanks for watching!
Houstonian here.....Welcome back!!
Well thank you sir! I graduated from High School down in Sugarland. Spent many a Friday night down on Westheimer in my "73 Z28
Your child will benefit from our education system. So glad to see you back home!😊
He already has. In just 4 short months he was able to overcome most if not all of the learning gaps brought about by how the Philippines handled education during the pandemic. We are pleased with our decision at this point!
Ok, so you’re in Texas! Nice! Texas is pretty nice!👍🏻
Yes sir, East Texas! It's good to be home for a while 😀.
What made you decide to pay your contractor in full before the job was done?
I didn't explain well in this vlog. I didn't pay the home build contractor in full. We withheld the final 10 percent till it was finished. Some things got corrected so I released 5 %, but the rest never were addressed so to this day that has never been turned over. It's the other smaller jobs, or additionals. as they like to call it, that I mistakenly released funds only to never see the contractors again. My weakness is I am a trusting person until you give me a reason not to trust you. What seems to be all to common in the PI, is they start the job strong after your 50% down and then at some point as they near completion, they will ask for some more for more materials and next thing you know they are asking for the remainder to pay their workers food, salary, transportation, etc. I developed what I thought was a good working relationship with them, only to find out that once they have all their money, they will make excuse after excuse for why they can't finish right now, until they finally just ghost you. I am unfortunately, just way to trusting of folks. It's a Texas thing, I think .
Happy you will keep the house in pinoy
We sold our home in the Philippines, but we still have some of our property so if we ever return, we have a place that we love, to build on.
first time viewer here from houston. welcome back. 🤠
Always nice to meet a fellow Texan! It's always a good feeling coming home. Appreciate you watching!
Enjoy Ben. Enjoy every moment. Great to see.
Doing my best to soak it all in brother. Thank you for the kind words!
From The Woodlands, miss it but not sure if I could afford to repurchase a house there anymore, it’s gone up so much since I moved to the Phils.
Woodlands has always been one of the more pricier developments in the Houston area, but yep, prices have gone up everywhere by about 75% and interest rates suck right now. Hopeful the future will look brighter soon!
Welcome to Texas! Hello from Dallas. 👍🏼🇨🇱
Hello Big D! Always good to hear from a fellow Texan. Appreciate you watching!
I’m in North Carolina. We are country similar to Texas. We have high schools with litter boxes because some students identify as “furries”.
Hopefully your son has roots deep enough that he won’t be swayed by the culture here.
I wish y’all the best.
I believe my son would think 50 times before ever coming home to tell me he is a cat 🤣. He knows his Pop Pa to well. If it ever happened, he knows he would get his cat tail end worn out! I did not know that North Carolina had gone that route. Sounds like something you might see in Austin 🙄.
That's a story that's been debunked. I would wager you know absolutely nothing about what's going on in schools and you don't really care. You're a fear-mongering gossip.
We have furries here also. Haven’t heard about litter boxes.🙅♀️
Ben is getting so big brother. I am glad you are able to relish in the moments of infancy. Blessings to you and your family.
Yes he is sir. Has his Mom's long legs! Relishing those moments of infancy are a two edged sword. With all the good, comes some not so good . But as we say, this to shall pass!
I understand about having kids and being 66 myself anyways thanks for the update and you guys don't live to far from us here in Texas..And have a blessed week...
Brother Claude, enjoy your channel sir! Thanks for watching. If my memory serves me correct, you and Jessica are down near Victoria, is that right? And your correct, you do know what this is like. I am loving watching Ben grow up, but this old body of mine just can't do what it used to be able to do. Getting up and down off the floor is a challenge. We are about to head back over to the PI, but will be back before Genesis has to start back to school. Let's try to get together sometime! I could use some wise words from a man that has traveled this road.
@@rickbaker0217 That would be great and we are living in Victoria I will message you on fb.
@@rickbaker0217because YOU ARE OLD GRANDPA! What the hell were you thinking about? Maybe it’s not even your kid!
Well, there you go again "Tutnetam" . Since when did 60 become an "Old Grandpa" ? Oh, Ben's mine for sure. Spitting image of me when I was his age. Really enjoying seeing him grow up! I have concluded, based on your comments to our vlogs, that you might just be my worst enemy on earth and I don't even know you! Oh, well, a little criticism never killed the cat!
How do I get hold of you about buying the house
@@WilliamBush-x1h you can email me at principalbake@gmail.com ,Thanks.
You certainly got a full plate my friend but you have a good head on your shoulders and sounds to me like you have it all thought out in detail. Wishing your stepson the very best in his schooling in Texas and future military service plans. My wife daughter and I did pretty much the same thing and moved from the Philippines back to Boston in 2010 for her education as well. She excelled beyond our expectations and as I told you previously she was accepted to West Point Military Academy in New York. She’s always going to be my baby girl but she’s paving her own way in life now and making me the proudest Dad imaginable. Take care of yourself and your family brother and please keep us updated on your journey. P.S. The little guy laughing and giggling is absolutely precious and priceless 🤣😂❤🙏🏻✌🏻🇺🇸
Brother Charles! So good to hear from you sir. So far the school we were blessed to be able to enroll Genesis in, has been awesome and he is having to work his tail off for the first time ever, just to keep his head above the water. I'm cheering for him though!. I can hear the pride in your words brother, she sounds as if she has laid out an awesome path for herself and I will share her story with Genesis. He needs to know it's all worth it. He went from never even once having homework in the Philippines, to having 3 to 4 hours of school work every night. He was in shock, but has really seemed to get his focus after seeing all the students there making their academics their priority. I know, priceless is a good word to use!
@@rickbaker0217 Awesome 👏🏻 Genesis, You got this! He’ll be a perfect roll model for Little Benjamin too along with you and the Mrs. Of course. Thank you for the reply and always wishing you and your family the very best. Your Mom and Dad must also be ecstatic that you brought your family closer to them for the next few years.
The kids' education is important for sure, as is the career of your son...
The immigration thing is important too...
These days, it's really hard to get a visa, as you know...
Prices are going to shock me, I'm sure when I get there again...
It's been years since I've been back there, pretty much since retiring 25+ years ago from the Army I've remained overseas...
The house is beautiful, don't blame you for keeping it...
I think you're making the right decision...
It'll be nice (if expensive) to travel back and forth...
Best of luck with the coming move...I did that 14 times in 25 years...
It's always painful...
Cheers!
🙏🙏🙏
👍😎👍
Thanks for the kind words brother! And thank you for your service to the country 🙏. Funny thing is, since I made that Vlog, our lives have taken another turn. We are currently trying to decide if we want to try to hang on to the house as a summer place. So hard to see into the future. Just got to go with what gives me the most peace!
Im proud of you.goodluck
Thank you Maria!
Hi! We live in Austin, TX. Here, in AISD schools have also been closed for almost two years.
Austin is it's own little world in Texas and I can't say I am surprised Andrew. Not sure those folks in AISD have what's best for kids, in the forefront of their decisions. I am a firm believe you always do what's BEST FOR KIDS!
Little Benjamin what a blessing and his laugh. 😆So glad our paths crossed and thank you for your service as well as Genesis future plans enlisting in the best service, THE US AIR FORCE! As you know, Ghen and I are relocating later this year to the Philippines and your all's vlogs have come in handy. We love your house and the set up you have to include the pool. All new house builds have some type of issue even here in the good ol USA.
Everyone's situation is different and your making a good choice for you and your family. 100% agree with your immigration comments, you know never these days. You do everything legal and get punished for that, do everything illegal and get every benefit under the sun. Anyway, thats a whole different subject. Ghen and I will be watching you all from afar and definitely will stay in touch.
Hey Chief! Thanks for watching brother. Yep, if a laugh like that can't put a smile on a persons face, I am not sure what would. And yes, rarely hear of a house build that goes perfectly. You nailed it on the immigration. Follow the law and you might just get screwed, break the law and you can't do any wrong. What's up with that! Oh well, I try to follow the law best I can. It's been a pleasure chatting with you. Looking forward to meeting you both in the future.
I look at what your doing for your son from one veteran to another he has a great head on his shoulders and with your Guidance he will become a awesome young man i wish him the best and a great Military Career . Tyvm for your service also and your sons Military service
Thanks brother, thank you for your service to country as well! I am doing my best, what he does with the opportunity, is all up to him. I am expecting his best!
Good luck to you and your family. I wish the education in the Philippines was like it was when I was growing up. But I must say it has declined not only in PI but everywhere and you just have to look at your situation in detail and not generalize things. With your experience in life I’m sure you will make the right decisions. Good luck!
I can agree with the statement that educational standards have declined everywhere. Attributable to many things I suppose. Smart devices (which I think just make folks dummer), decline in family values and just an overall belief that Everything and anything is acceptable. My thoughts anyway!
Hey sir! My name is Dave Kerns and I’m from near Paris , Texas. I’ve lived here in metro Manila for 8 years now. My wife and I are wanting to relocate to a more rural area of the islands. Please let me know should you want to lease your property year to year until we build our own home.😊
Always nice to meet a fellow Texan brother David! If you have survived in Metro Manila for 8 years, then you are a better man than I sir . I can remember when Jenn and I were dating, 1 week in Metro Manila liked to drove me nuts. The short answer on your question is I am not a fan of leasing. I did it once with a home I have in the Dominican Republic and I have regretted it ever since. We are taking steps to potentially sell our home in Cuyapo. If we decide to go through with that, I will put out a vlog to that affect. Thanks for watching sir!
Hi there! I’m new to your channel and I’m really enjoying it. I wanted to share my thoughts on education in the Philippines. Based on our experience, private schools in major cities like Metro Manila often offer higher standards, but they can be quite expensive. I can relate to that feeling of disappointment when moving to a smaller area or country. My daughter attended a prestigious private school in Manila, and we were definitely satisfied with the quality of education. They've supported us during the pandemic, all online resources where provided and they did their best for the kids to learn during lockdown. Now that we’re in the province, I’ve noticed that the standards, whether private or public, don’t always match what we’re used to.
I have heard similar accounts from others Maribel and I am glad that your children didn't suffer to the degree that many others did. We tried schools in Cavite, Balanga City and Cuyapo, but none ever met the standards that I wanted for our son. I was not willing to go into Manila to get that standard simply because I am not and never will be a Big City guy. I love the environment and pace of the rural areas. So deciding to come home to get Genesis what he needed to overcome all the learning gaps, made sense to me. In 4 short months, he has overcome most if not all of the gaps that were brought about by the Philippines handling of education during the pandemic. I think we made a good decision, but only time will tell. Appreciate you sharing your experience!
There are a lot of good schools in ph and maybe not around your area so keep looking. Private and international schools. You don’t have to sacrifice your remaining life going back to USA and doing it again. There are also a lot of online school nowadays and they are international too.
Three different cities and multiple public and private schools, but sadly were never able to find one that actually made academics a priority. We have him in a good one now though. He made more progress there than he did in the prior 3 years. No complaints thought Vegas, Love me some Texas and Miss My Philippines!
I thought you had a similar accent as me. I no longer live there but I’m from Tyler. We likely know many of the same people. I wish you all the best in your move.
Accent, what accent . It's possible we do. Hope you ended up in another beautiful Texas city!
there is nothing more consistent than change. Fortunately you made choices that will benefit the family. The greatest achievement I have accomplished was being a parent.
I really like how you put that Albert! Appreciate you sir!
Have you researched doing a re-entry visa for your family? It allows you to keep your immigrant status while you are overseas for up to 2 years.
I haven't. And if we hadn't decided to get Genesis additional opportunities in his education, that would be a must. Cool thing is, in just two more years, they can both apply for their US Citizenship!
Another great video Rick 😊
Thanks brother Gary!
Have you tried an international school?
None near where we live in the Philippines. But that is where he is going in Texas. International boarding school in Bullard, Tx!
Could you wait until til he is ready for school and then move back. Good luck.
Genesis was in the middle of his Freshman year and the schools were not closing any of his learning gaps brought about by locking kids out of school for 2.5 years during COVID. The school in Texas he attends, closed all those gaps in the last 4 months of his Freshman year of High School.
Hello from Frisco 👍 Me and my boys recently went to the Tyler Zoo. white tigers were a memorable hit.
Thanks for sharing the story. I can’t imagine selling all my stuff here only to end up back in the states. Sounds like you are making the best of it.
And real estate is improving; we’ve already lost 50K on our purchase two years ago 😂 so it’s not all bad news for your timing.
Hey Michael! Hope all is well in Frisco. Yes sir, the white tiger is pretty cool to see. Yes, crazy to even think about it, but hard to see into the future sometimes. Hate that your possibly taking a hit on your home value, but I figured it might happen at some point. Just hope it doesn't dissolve into a 2008 scenario. That was bad for everyone, accept buyers.
Can you homeschool in the Philippines? Is that even an option I’m asking because I honestly don’t know.
Not sure, but most likely not. Honestly though, if there are mandatory attendance laws, I am pretty sure they are not followed or enforced. I have many young children that do not attend a school. Now during COVID, we had no choice but to school at home.
Yes. There’s homeschooling .
Good luck and God bless
Thank you! And thanks for watching!
Best wishes to your move back. Im in the Dallas area Collin County and I can tell you a lot of things have doubled in price here the last five years. Its still a great place to live but not a lower cost of living like it was. I love the Philippines and staying there 3 or 4 months a year is a great way to go...best of both worlds.
Sounds like you have a plan Roadwarrior! I was raised in Richardson, so you would have been down Hwy. 75 a piece. Yep, definitely still more affordable in the PI. That I will miss for sure. With Genesis in school, we are limited to just a month or so each summer and that might even be less next year as he is hoping to get a part time job when he turns 16. Once he graduates though, we will see what happens then!
@@rickbaker0217 I would like to have a nice house in my Filipina's home town but it would be hard keeping a house here in Plano and another there also.
I agree, difficult at best to maintain two complete homes for sure.
❤ Kids need to wear uniforms also School shouldn't be a fashion show. My dad had money and then I did so I was okay infact above but I felt so bad for the kids that didn't . Self esteem is turned into a problem .
I’m a teacher in Houston for HISD. I will tell you to get into a good school District with good services. I understand that education is so very important and you’re trying to do your best. This is the first time I’ve watched your video and I truly hope everything goes smoothly. Take care look me up when you get back Texas.
Andreas Johnson
Hey Andrea! Appreciate you watching. Always nice to meet a fellow Texan. I actually graduated High School just outside of HISD, in Sugarland. I went to John Foster Dulles back when it was the only high school in Fort Bend ISD. I know, I am old . I think we found a good fit for Genesis and he finished up his 9th grade on solid ground. Had to work his butt off to do it though and he has been in shock since he never had homework in the Philippines and now averages 3 to 4 hours a night just to keep his head above water. He is making it happen though!
Great video.i can relate my baby is 3 now and his sister is 6 and it's a good feeling to be able to be home to help raise them .I didn't get to spend much time with my 4 older boys due to working all the time.we had thoughts on moving to Philippines but being my daughter has autism we figured it was best for her to be in the school system here .plus now that I have been diagnosed with cancer I need the best medical I can get.i also can relate to having a house and it being peaceful although we don't live in texas.we are surrounded by farms here in the mountains of New York and the only noise we really hear are the farm tractors in the back field.your baby boy looks more like you than your wife.your son is getting so big quickly.
Thanks brother Les! So you have walked in my shoes already. It sounds like even though we are from very different worlds, we have a lot in common. You made the right move staying here with an autistic child. The PI has zero services available to help these special children. If NY is anything like Texas, all teachers are trained on how to teach children with Autism and your daughter is better off in that scenario. My sister in law has an autistic child and the school system there has no clue how to help him. And that is in the middle of Metro Manila. How much worse would it be out in the province. The description of your home sounds more like a ranch here in East Texas than what I imagine New York to look like. Sounds absolutely perfect! Ben did inherit my wife's eyelashes .
My Filipina wife and 2 stepchildren, 8 and 10 moved to Allen, Texas last July 13. My motivation for moving was to give my family the opportunity to obtain US Citizenship and education for the children. The schools here in Allen are among the best in Texas. The kids were enrolled in ESL and tested in the highest level last month after 1 school year. Anyway, I agree that you are making the best decision as a husband and father. Question and comment: I receive Social Security and with my wife and kids now being Permanent Residents the children qualify for Children’s Social Security Benefits. My children receive $1,235 each every month and will until they graduate from High School. My children are my stepchildren and I haven’t adopted them yet and they still qualify. The reason I mention this is to see if you might get the same type of benefits. Check it out. The kids total benefit of $2,470 monthly is calculated by taking 80% of my SS. That’s the total maximum allowable. All minor children and step children of a SS recipient are eligible. Good luck and if I can do anything here in Texas to help prepare for your arrival please let me know.
You're 💯% correct! And the children will continue to get those SS benefits until they reach 18 years of age! Well done!
Marc, did I know you were up in Allen? I don't think I did, but you are only about 2 hours from us. I knew I felt close to you . So here is what I know about SS. I am vested in it from all the other jobs I had growing up and military pay from all my years of working and serving, however, I was told that because I have a Texas Teachers Retirement, I am not eligible to draw on my SS when the time comes a year from now. What I do believe is when I kick the bucket, my TRS retirement pension goes away and then my wife and children will hopefully be able to draw from my SS at that time. Don't know that for sure, but it's worth looking in to it for them. Appreciate you sharing your situation, and hopefully I can get some answers for the future.
2:17 baby time is worth subscribing. Enjoy
Yes, it absolutely is sir!
To bad you had to move back unplanned, although temporarily. It certainly creates extra costs but the future of your kids is probably worth it.
Ps. Don't feel bad, sometimes things just go wrong. I certainly not going to blame you for what happened.
I think it's worth a shot to give Genesis a better opportunity for his future. Bottomline is it will ultimately be up to him what he makes of the opportunity. You have never given me the impression that you were blaming me for the poor customer service of others. I just know that some have acted off of my good experience and it has not worked out so well for them. That is what makes me feel poorly. I will be correcting it in the near future though. My good service has taken a 180 degree turn recently and I am not afraid to share it!
Hello Rick - Just a short note about your vlogs. Sometimes they seem long winded. I guess I’m more of a get to the bottom line type person. But it’s your show. Much respect to you for your military service.
No worries Joe, never claimed to not ramble now and then . It's just how my 61 year old brain works. I don't script anything so I just have to pull it out of the old brain and sometimes it lags!
Cutnshoot,,Coldspring,,Oakhurst and all east is still affordable, Definately get your well before neighborhoods get close.See y’all soon
Had a sister that lived in Coldspring for years. That is a bit farther south than I want to be. Mom and Dad are in the Tyler area.
Sad to see you go. But, this is truly the right reason and the right time to give him the best chance ever.
Also, I understand that a foreign spouse must have lived in the U.S. as a permanent resident for some number of years before she could collect you social security if, god forbid, that is ever necessary. Please “check” that Social Security “box” so that the benefit is not lost!
Best of luck!
Agreed, and yes, I am trying to leave this family in good shape financially if for some reason God calls me home!
Woodforest, Montgomery Tx and Lakecreek High School
All nice places, but trying to stay near Tyler if possible!
I'll look after your Ranger while you're gone!
That is super kind Paul 🤣. It is for sale if you would like to look after it long term! I'm going to miss that truck. Can't find anything in the states that even comes close.
Ben is so adorable
I am going to agree with you ALL DAY on that one!
Hello my friend I agree with you 100% you’re a good man to take care of your stepchild, but it is like your own child as a wonderful thing you were doing for that person to make sure he has a good education much about the Filipino education, my daughter is now in the states. She is starting school now at 3 1/2, but I told My Wife we will stay here in America until she gets through high school. I wanted to have a good education here in the states even though it’s not the best but it’s better than most so it’s all about the children and give them the best give them why you are with them, I wish you the best in the states when you come back take care always because we moved from Chicago to Rockford Illinois. Your wife said congratulations to us on Facebook. Tell her thank you very much and we will see you guys soon. Take care God bless.
Scott, so good to hear from you brother! I appreciate, as always, your kind comments. I think keeping your child stateside to get her education is a solid move and will benefit her in many ways. It all comes down to what your expectations are as a parent, for your child's education. Philippines is great, but my academic bar for Genesis is way higher than what I have seen here to date. Three years left of school, we did not have the luxury of waiting to see if things improve. Take care of your self brother and glad to know you got your family to a safer environment!
Yes American but a great man with a beautiful Filipina wife treating the family as true family, congratulations ❤
Thanks for the kind words brother! I feel a kinship. 97% of my DNA hales from the British Isles!! I will visit my ancestorial homeland someday. It's on my bucket list. I kind of imagine myself wearing that kilt, riding that horse, and yelling "Freedom", like that scene in Braveheart! But without the whole head chopping off thing!
Some call a horse as BEAUTIFUL 😂😂😂😂
If you claim to be a Texan, then you know that Horses are Beautiful!
Cool video-I also have a pension as a school psychologist-31 years-after my ex (from Lapu Lapu) divorced-decided best for the girls stay in the 🇺🇸 and of course my ex got the house so she is staying in the 🇺🇸!
Hurts my heart to hear that Barry. I have been down the divorce road twice and each time was like starting over. I am hoping life will bring you good things in the future. I probably should have given up on ever finding love again after failing twice, just trusted God had something even better in store for me. Time shall tell. Thanks for watching!
TOO CUTE, THAT BENJAMIN OF YOU GUYS ♥
GOOD LUCK TO YOU GUYS BACK IN TEXAS. BUT NOT WITH THE 'BIDEN ECONOMICS' THAT SCREWED UP AMERICA. BEST OF LUCK TO THE FAMILY
He is a good looking and smart boy for sure. Thank God he got his Mom's legs!
Hope we can get together when you return
You know I would love hanging out with you brother! I'll be back soon so that Genesis can get ready for the 10th grade. Hope you are well and great to hear from you!
It’s great to see you back in Cuyapo. Hopefully you won’t be trading one set of issues for another. I’m glad my kids are both out of school, so I don’t have to reprogram them from everything some teacher with a rainbow hairdo just tried teaching. But you are blessed to be retired, and in a great position to help steer Genesis in the right direction…
As for the military, they don’t seem to realize that all their woke/trans/lgbtq stuff is NOT helping recruiting, it’s hurting. This country needs war fighters, not cross dressers…That’s just my opinion 🇺🇸
I’ll be back in Texas in August, let’s see if we can get together for lunch!
Hey brother Karl! Couldn't agree with you more. You took the words right out of my mouth. I am hopeful that by the time Genesis gets into the Air Force, they will have shifted their focus back to the Mission and away from the fringe. Yes, let's get together when you head to the Lone Star State!
great video
Thank you sir!
Congratulations to you both on the birth of your blessed new baby and best of luck! You'll always have my full support. Best regards/Ned👍👏👍
P.S. By the way, these are fruit bats not birds🦇🦇🦇
Thanks brother Ned! I have seen bats swoop down to drink out of the pool before, but had never seen more than one or two. This was a flock and they moved like Martins. But, you may be right brother!
@@rickbaker0217 They always come out after dusk to feed. And after feeding, they return to their roosts to sleep out the rest of the nigh... Good luck po/Ned 🎉
You guys are in the province! The best schools are in Manila and some of the main cities. Please do not generalize the quality of education in the Philippines based on your experience.
I wasn't trying to offend anyone, these are my experiences and and my decisions that were formed from watching the DepEd system in both public and private settings. From Cavite to Nueva Ecija. I did not witness any differences when it came to Not Putting Kids First. I spent my entire adult career in the education system and I believe I have a pretty good grasp of what is needed to help kids excel, and never saw any doing what it takes in the 4 years I was in country. I keep hearing the "best schools are in Manila". Why is that? What is it about Manila that makes it the only place that is capable of providing a quality education? If I were a Filipino, that is the question I would be asking ALL of the leadership of the DepEd. All schools fall under their leadership whether in the city or the province and if the adults in charge are really in it for the right reasons, then that quality education should be achievable anywhere. Why must the bar be lowered just because one chooses to live in natures beauty and not in the concrete jungle? Regardless, as I said, this my opinion and in no way is meant to say that every educator in the Philippines is of poor quality, it's simply saying that what is, could be so much better if they only put the children first. Appreciate you watching!
The Lord bless you; you are doing what is best for your family. Have faith in Jesus Christ!
Believe me Cristina, I have turned this all over to him. Trusting totally!
Bats all over the place ❤
So they aren't Martins!! You may be right.
If I had to re-plan education for my three boys again, I would home school.
It's a viable option for sure.
Tyler... we're neighbors. I'm in Manank.
I think you meant to type Mabank! Small world, Mabank was my very first High School Administrator position. I was there for 4 years before moving on to Pine Tree ISD.
Yes Mabank. I would love to be in your house!!!!!
Your a good man Rick. I'm proud to call you my friend.
Hey brother! Not sure about "good", I was thinking more along the lines of "great", only because I can call you my friend 😁
I have to agree Rick!!! We have a great friendship
I am with you on education being a reason to be back in the US. The education system in the Philippines does suck. The covid reaction there was insane. The modules that I seen were way to hard for the age of the kid. We can afford private school and they also suck in the Philippines. The length of time they are stuck in school is crazy to me. We have a 2nd grader in US school in South Dakota now. So it would be a conservative place similar to TX. The point is that I don't think it is as great of an education that I thought it would be. I am more a proponent of home school. That is probably the future of our kids school. If I were you I would just keep the house for now and let that play out. Who knows what decision you will make in the future.
Already made the move Cory. Genesis is actually attending an excellent Christ centered College Prep school that is also an international boarding school. He really seems to love it and I am keeping tabs on it and thus far have encountered an incredible academic focused learning environment. I believe God led us to the right place. I am a fan of homeschooling also, if it's done right with the right curriculum. In our case though, it really wasn't an option for Genesis since we will have two infants in the house. To much interruption!
@@rickbaker0217 Either option is better than the Filipino education. My kids are just starting school and I have no interest in Filipino public or private school. I would just keep all the stuff in the Philippines in case you change your mind.
Good move for your family. I am pretty sure the military is requiring a non-citizen most have resided in the US for a year so there is that.
I think so to. Not sure about the year of residing, but if that is correct, he will meet that requirement , no problem. After next school year, we will start digging into preparing him for the ASVAB!
When cov hit I was in America getting surgery and my youngest son was getting married and I was trapped from going back to my Philipina girlfriend ,3 years we were apart , I decided to retire at 62 and not wait till 65 , I did the math and if I waited till 65 thats 3 years lost of monthly checks . I'm so glad i retire because I did 5 years Army then 31 years coal mining operator . I've been back in the Philippines sense march 2023 .
Yep, that whole keep the world out for 3 years was pure lunacy if you ask me. Of course if you had been there and you were over 60, they would have locked you in your home anyway, which is also ludicrous. I hope they never forget how much all of that harmed people. Glad you are back where you want to be brother!
“Don’t make a permanent decision based on temporary problems.”
Ever hear of a U.S. based curriculum homeschool program? There are many. You said you were a former educator. Apply those skills.
As for immigration visas, Guam every six months and then go see the Air Force recruiters in a couple of years. They conduct their annual visits to the RAO in Angeles City/Cavite/Subic.
Sounds like someone may have convinced you to convince yourself.
All good points brother, but there is a bit more detail to it all. Homeschooling is a viable option, but with two infants in the house, I just felt there would be to many interruptions for Genesis to effectively concentrate on his academics. I was also hearing that the whole Guam every six months was no guarantee to not having visas pulled by a gung-ho CBP officer at the airport. They were to hard to get to risk loosing them. Ultimately, I have peace in my heart with the decisions. I believe that is all that matters!
I read many of the comments about moving back to the US being a mistake. Most , I assume don't live here.
From all I've observed from being here 5 years with my Filipina and her two girls , I will say...A bad education in the US would be 10X better than a so called good education here !
I would have to say I agree with that assessment. At least as I have observed. I know my bar is high having been an educator for 31 years, but I also recognize, when doing what's best for kids isn't happening.
Best decision
Thanks brother Mark, trusting it is.
@@rickbaker0217 I hear ya about contractor's ...love your location peaceful and the solar is a must stay strong and safe
We will see...not!!!!
Not making any sense to me. But that's pretty standard. There are private schools in PH that are serious. There's also home schooling. Experienced educator, knowns how he wants his kids educated, retired so plenty of time...soooo let's move to Texas? I get Tubers don't like to say what's really going on, but it's nice when the story makes some sense.
This is a good example for guys thinking single moms, no big deal. Kids dominate a guy's life. How many guys get on a dating site hoping to find a single mom? Guessing zero. But hot looking friendly Filipina says "Hi" and he's down. I hear guys say Filipinas are submissive to their guy. Looks to me like most guys are submissive to their Filipina. She sets the basic rule of "you have to raise my kids" and then allows the guy to do that how he sees fit. It's like the parent tactic of giving a child 2 choices. "You can have peas for dinner or green beans. Which would you like?" The kid feels like they have a choice, but nope.
I was chatting with a great Filipina online, widow, 3 great boys, truly. She was very well to do, no problem providing for her boys. I initially thought 3 boys, no big deal. But as I thought about my options like where I wanted to live the boys had to dictate my plans. No way would it be fair to them to pull them out of their school, away from friends, and set them down where I wanted to live. Maybe I'd want to move again. Maybe to a different country. I ended that and no more online stuff. I'll want to be in country, look around and find some places I'd like to live, then maybe look for a wife.
The bottom line for me was if kids were OK, then why shouldn't they be my kids? Seemed to me like I had a self-esteem and/or White Knight issue. OK to raise another man's kids, but not my own kids? Silly. I'd rather provide for my own kids if given the choice. And I do have that choice.
Well Waterbug, I typed a super long response to your comments and before I could submit it, I hit something on the keypad and it just disappeared 😩. So, here I go again with a hopefully abbreviated version. During the COVID fiasco, we were homeschooling, as we had no choice. Genesis faired better than most Filipino children simply because he had a mom and dad that valued education. But as a former educator, I know the best place for kids is in the classroom with a motivated teacher, having those relevant discussions with teachers and other students. So as we were able, we sent Genesis back to his public school. The start up after having kids locked down for two and a half years, was beyond chaotic and zero learning happened that year. We then enrolled him in a very well respected private school out in the province, only to find out that private and public are both controlled by the DepEd, so we saw very little difference between the two environment accept we paid for one and not the other. After two years of watching school cancelled frequently for no reason, or dismissed early for no reason given, zero communication with teachers and I even had a Principal pretend to be office staff to try to avoid a conversation about the learning expectations. I had seen enough. My son and his classmates were really good at making TikTok dance videos during the school day, but lacked any other learning that could ascertain. All while maintaining a straight A average. I don't say any of this to trash anyone. I am simply sharing OUR experience. Maybe had we lived in Makati or BGC, we might have had a different experience, but we made our home where my wife was raised. And perhaps for most, the system works for them. I suppose it was just me that was struggling with it, knowing what Genesis wanted to do in his future, I felt he had to do better to function in the Air Force environment. I didn't make this vlog to convince anyone that they should not educate a child in the Philippines. You do what you have access to. But the sole purpose was just to share why we were making such an abrupt move. We were going to visit my family anyway, we just decided to make it for the next three years at least. Hope that makes more sense to you sir. Appreciate you!
Did you ever think about enrolling your son in military school in the USA.. talk to a immigration attorney about his immigration and going into the military.. it is super expensive to live in the USA in today's world.. if he was in military school you can talk to him everyday on WhatsApp.. you and your wife could come back to the the Philippines and live in your house and save a lot of money doing it that way and I think you would be happier..the military school would be a sure way of him getting into any branch of the military that he wanted and a great education on top of that.. just a thought from my pea brain for today.. I was thinking a way to help you out and you would not have to give up your beautiful house.. if you move back to the USA it might even give you a heart attack from all of this stress.. I am planning on leaving in a couple of months for my last time and I don't ever plan on coming back.. I am 70 years old and I plan on dying in the Philippines.. my girl does not like to discuss anything to do with death but she is going to have to because I am paying for my services and hopefully cremation.. of course after we die we never know what they're going to do with us and of course it really does not matter any more to us..hehe..I wish you and your family all the best..
Hey Richard, appreciate you trying to help sir. But no, I did not look into military schools and I actually don't even know of any. Genesis is attending Brook Hill School which is a Christ centered College Prep school that has an international boarding school as well. We honestly could not afford the boarding school or we could have done what you suggest, at Brook Hill. And yes, it is super expensive to live here now, but Brook Hill has really helped this old disabled vet and thanks to their generosity, we are making ends meet. The house is already sold and in just two weeks, it will not be ours anymore. Yes, that makes me super sad, but I believe the choice we have made, will pay dividends in the future in so many ways. We have not given up on our dream of living out the rest of my life in the Philippines and after a few years and Genesis heads off to the Air Force, we will reevaluate and see what God has in store for us next!
@@rickbaker0217 yes sir I understand.. I admire you for doing the right thing.. I really love that house and I really wanted to buy it but thank you for telling me it is sold.. everything in today's world is super expensive.. I wish you all the best my friend and I will be watching your videos to see how you are doing..
You should rent till the housing market collapses and watch the interest rates
That is exactly what we are doing. Never thought it would be this difficult to afford a home in my beloved home of Texas. But wow, how things changed in 4 short years.
Im about to move to Philippines my wife is pregnant and i want my daughter to be Philipina im looking to buy a house ….
Hoping to have our House for Sale Vlog up in a few days Javier. Congrats to you and your wife on the future daughter!
Be ready to pay $3k car insurance in Texas, one car!
Haven't had to research that yet, but I have heard that the insurance rates are getting crazy. Might just have to go horseback if it comes to that!
I live in Coleman Tx. I have no car.
Just Ride a bicycle
Hi there. Your vlog showed up on my feet and ironically, I'm here in Llano vicinity.
I'm a Filipina married to a rancher. I grew up and met my husband here. This is both our 2nd marriage..
I used to have my 2 children in a private Christian School. I will tell you that they too are being affected with this "social engineering" garbage that they have been pushing in public schools.
In a city about 1.5 hours from us where a lot of Californians have settled, the public schools are no longer grading children. They just keep passing them to the next grade. I've heard that some of the kids, 4th graders can barely read. Earlier this year, I had to go into Austin and on my way back home, I stopped by at a fast food place to buy something to tie me over. It was inexpensive but the kid who was at the drive-thru could not even subtract simple math under $10. He had to grab his phone to do the calculation. The math was so simple, my 10 year old daughter would have known the calculations.
They also like passing school bonds. That City recently passed an $1.8 billion dollar bond last year and they voted to pass another $1.6billion bond this year. This is one school district. I heard there's another school bond that they want people to vote on that's worth $950 million. So, every year, this school district is getting almost 2 billion dollars.
I'm saying this because it seems to be spreading throughout Texas and that's going to affect everybody. Property taxes are going to go up and usually, the increase in price gets trickled down to the renters. I also have rental properties which I bought before I was married.
They don't see that that's how you ruin states.
Things are higher here in Texas because of all the people who have moved from other states. There's a very strong gentrification going on here.
My husband and I decided to homeschool our 5 children.
I've owned my own business even before we were married. We hired a local school teacher who didn't want to participate in what they were pushing here 3 years ago so she quit.
We hired her to homeschool our children on our ranch along with our nieces, nephews, our ranch hand's children and one of our friend's children. Total of 14 children ranging from 1st grade to 11th grade. She is being compensated very well. We also provide breakfast and lunch to everyone and 90% of the food is grown here on our ranch. Home cooked.
The teacher lives nearby and usually comes to school on her horse 😊 part of her compensation is supplying her with what we grow here on our ranch and giving her beef and chicken. All truly organic.
My family and I are doing the opposite. We are considering moving to the Philippines. Things are really bad here. And it seems to be getting worse everyday. I pray that things get better but we don't see it. We don't see things getting better. The border is wide open. My husband and my brother-in-law's we recently at a family friend's ranch South of San Antonio helping them because they are getting invaded with illegals.
I don't know how things are in Tyler. I'm sure it's similar to the Austin area. It's definitely not the Texas we grew up in.
One more advice, just watch your children very closely and who is around them. Storytime is not the same storytime we grew up with.
Look over every single book they are reading. Many of the books that are in public schools are pornographic. One of our good friends whose children were in public school has their children with our homeschool.
It's nice to see good men, good father doing the right thing.
Safe travels with you and your family. God bless.
Well Jessica, I replied with a very lengthy message and must have hit a wrong button and poof it was gone . In a nut shell what I was saying to you was the area you live in, although beautiful, has leaned far left for as long as I can remember. It does not surprise me that those districts in that area are doing the same. Additionally your proximity to what I still call Fort Hood, hasn't helped as the military community has also gone "Woke". I think what you are doing with the homeschooling is awesome and your kids will benefit for it. As for Genesis, we were blessed to get him into a Christ centered college prep International boarding school, whose founder has fought to keep the school, faculty and students focused on what is most important. Genesis has really had his eyes opened about what a real education is. When we left the Philippines, he and his classmates were very good at TikTok dancing, but not much else. He now has 3 hours a night of good solid academic homework and has to work his butt off just to keep his head above water. As for the immigration disaster that is currently destroying communities nationwide, I pray that in the next 7 months we will start to see a sharp reversal in that border invasion. The world has to know we are a nation of laws and laws that people must follow to benefit from it. I truly miss my retired life in the Philippines, but if there are children's educations at stake, I encourage you to think twice. Education really does seem to be just a joke in the culture and no one challenges it. Very frustrating to see adult educators, starting with the school leadership, having no sense of urgency to recover all the learning lost during their crazy COVID shutdown. I better send this before it disappears!
Rick .they pulled a friends wifes green card because of their lacck of time in the US and believe it or not, not being allowed to travel during covid was not a good enough excuse
Yep, not surprised. Common sense has no place in today's society, unfortunately 😪
The Philippines is a developing country. I’m not surprised that their education system isn’t very good. Why don’t you let your son have a cell phone? You cannot get by in today’s world without a cell phone. Kids use them for all kinds of education stuff these days. Hope it works out.
Sometimes kids make poor choices and privileges are taken away. Thus no cell phone at the moment. He get's by just fine without it. An Ipad is available for educational purposes only. Appreciate you watching.
Cheap colleges community college, south dakatoa, Wyoming, Florida
Three states I absolutely love!
GOING TO MISS YOUR POSTS ♥
Don't miss them yet, we have more coming. Just took a break to get moved and try to stay ahead of Benjamin's adventure .
Can somebody explain why the USof A has such a hardon against the Pinos ?
I live in the Caribbean and find them great as employees honest ethical intelligent and hardworking . USA will not give them a travel visa to pass through . So they have to pay big bucks to fly via Europe Middle East to get home for visit . Americans have been in and using Ph for over 80 yrs but no respect !!
Not really sure what point you are trying to make Rob. I am married to a Filipina and have many family and friends in the Philippines. I have a great deal of respect for each of them, until they give me cause not to. I have had a similar experience with my home in the Dominican. What I have always said is when there is money involved, both places seem to leave ethics and morals at the door. Probably holds true for many other places around the world. I rarely run into that trait here in the US.
I accidentally fell upon your channel, and you have the most interesting situation I have seen of any expat.
Sir, I commend you. Just hearing your story about the main reason you are moving back to the US is so family first, it'sbeautiful. Being an educator, you would know, and thanks for bringing up those points about the nonsensical ways of the education system over there. Kinda like Philippines time.
I haven't moved there yet, and I have been trying since the demon floated down the escalator with Morticia in 2015 and changed the world by announcing he was running for the most powerful person on thecplanet, and the wirkd hasn'tbeen the same since.
Between Covid19, my sister's death, coping issues, loss of business, and now at 68 about to come there, and China is acting a fool, the volcano erupts...
The plan is still to come and land in a paradise island of the Philippines. Thanks for the content, I will subscribe. 💯 please do the same.
Appreciate you watching sir! I figure I already had my opportunity to have a positive impact on a larger scale during my 31+ years of being an educator, and now that I have hung that up, it's time to concentrate on making an impact closer to home. My children setting themselves on a strong path to self-sufficiency is my goal and what I hope will be my legacy. I'm very sorry to hear of your personal tragedies. Don't give up on your dream. If it's to move to the PI, then make it happen! You and I may be on complete polar opposites of the political spectrum, but I have no doubt that we could agree that a retirement life on one of the 7000+ islands in the Philippines, is a good way to close out a good life!
Brother this whole place is going to hell on a hand basket. I'm looking at leaving Houston
I understand. I got out of Houston when I left for the Air Force and never went back. Went to High School there, but the Houston area just wasn't my cup of tea. Got to East Texas as fast as I could!
I wouldn't set foot in the US the economy is about to collapse and the country is a mess
Can't really argue with you on that, I am trusting things will change soon and we will see America Great Again!
start your own school
Thought about that for two whole seconds Robert 🤣, then remembered I did that for 31 years and retired from it. I like retirement! Besides, any private school in the Philippines still falls under DepEd and I thing that is part of the problem, in my opinion.
The quality of education in the United States is on the decline. You should have considered a private school and tutoring in the Philippines at a lower cost compared to mediocre schooling here in the states. Everything costs 2x-3x more compared to 10 years ago. Not sure what your pension/ retirement finances are like but you might have to go back to work if you plan on enrolling the kids into private school. The overall public school system in the USA is in bad shape. Good luck.
I can't argue with what your saying Angel. I know even the area I am from in East Texas, has changed since I left education 4 years ago. We did try public and private in the Philippines, but we saw absolutely zero difference between them. The DepEd controls both public and private so they are truly identical in every sense of the word. At least that is what we found out in the province. My son and his classmates were awesome at making TikTok dance videos, which they did often in school, but as for academics, he saw first hand how far behind he was the first week he was here in Texas. Yes, the biggest shock for us was the cost of living having doubled since I left in 2021. Our saving grace is that the private school we enrolled him in here was super kind to take my retirement income into consideration and what I could not pay, they covered with scholarships. It will all work out, I'm trusting it!
Immigration didnt like being out of country for 8 months, even though it was after 3 years straight living in USA and covid lock down.
Yep, nothing regarding immigration, makes a dang bit of sense anymore. Follow the law, get screwed. Break the law, get rewarded. Go figure!
Public schools suck in us. Also factor in the shootings. It's a reality.
@@Ninya_B true! That’s why we enrolled him in a private Christian international school in Texas.
@@rickbaker0217 I wish you and your family all the luck.
I live in Texas, unless your willing to fund a private education for your kids in America, your mistaken about America being better for a normal good education, things in America are going south daily, even in Texas.
Which is why I prefaced all of that with "if things haven't changed". I figured things might have changed somewhat in the four years I have been out of the system. We were blessed to find a Christian College Prep school that also happens to be an international boarding school, so they have done wonderful by Genesis so far.
He has NO CHOICE! THE PHILIPINA WATS HER USA CITIZENSHIP LOL he will work to DEATH TO PROVIDE FOR HER KID AND SHE WIKL BRUNG ENDLESS FAMILY IN USA! the dude is nothing but used idiot
Why so depressing Tutnetam? I am starting to feel sorry for your disposition. My wife actually had no desire to immigrate. It is I that pushed the issue so that when I depart from this earth, she would have options. My guess is, now that we are going to the US, when I am gone, she will most likely move back to her home country with family and friends. I am not sure why you think I am having to "work to death" to provide for my family, but we just live off of my retirement. I did work my butt off to have a good retirement, so now I can just enjoy the effort I put in to get here. As for her family all coming to the US, that isn't happening. They are all perfectly happy where they are now. Lighten up and try not to be so critical of a family that you only know through vlogs. Regardless, stay safe always!
If nothing else they can go into the Military
Serving in the Air Force is Genesis goal at the moment. We will see if it stays the course the next three years!
If you really look at the VA and what is happening, i don't believe your son will ever have the military retirement or benefits that we, as veterans, have today. Just look at what Virginia just stripped away. I hope you really look at what a military career looks like in 5, 10, and 20 years. It will not be like following in your footsteps. VA disability will be gone!
Ya it's scary if more Republican Maga are elected Veterans and Social Security recipients will lose big.
As long as the military is offering a 20 year retirement it is still the best deal around. Not sure what you mean by the way the VA is today. I am finally getting benefits that I should have gotten 15 years ago. I guess it really matters who the President is.
The system needs to change for VA disability. You have too many Vets chasing higher ratings by physically harming themselves or lying on documents. I have a neighbor who spent 4 yrs active then worked 25yrs as a long haul trucker. He's currently at 80% VA disability and he started is claim 5 yrs ago. He's blaming every issue he has on the Military and getting most of it approved when it's obvious the 25yrs working as a trucker was the real cause of his issues. I retired after 20yrs in the Military then drove 25yrs I received a rating after retiring then after driving 25yrs my back went out. It clear to me the 25yrs of driving is the reason for my back issues so why should I take money from Vets that really deserve it and file a claim when I really don't need the money although an extra 3k per month could go along way towards buying toys for myself and my wife.
What he said!☝️
You may be right Vinnie, but Genesis and I have never talked about Disability benefits as the reason to serve. Our conversations have focused on comradery, team work, acquired skills, and yes, a pay check, health care and educational benefits. You can bet we also spoke about sense of purpose and serving others. Even if there wasn't a dime of disability on the other end, I would do it all over again. There will always be those that try to game the system, but if I do my job right, he won't be one of those. I am trying hard to get across to him the need to be an honest and honorable man. No guarantees he will be, but that is how he will be raised.
I learned all my friend built a home and then left for the usa i go back to visit the home they had is empty and trashed
That can and does happen Mark. To avoid such a thing, we have a caretaker and family there so hopefully we won't find that scenario when we return next week.
Your going back to the usa so your kid can go to high school then join the army you must be joking
Don't ever remember saying he wanted to join the Army? . But yes, he will finish his last three years here at Brook Hill and then off to the Air Force! I do have a dry sense of humor, but in this case, No Joke!
nope I wouldn't move back, life is way better in PI....
I understand, but this wasn't about the quality of my retirement. I have to put that on hold until my stepson graduates and then we will see what happens. Appreciate you watching!
Good plan , not good to leave a pool sitting though. Lost money because noone will care for it as you would have.
Normally I would agree, but I trained my caretaker very well and the best thing is, because of it's design, it is super easy to maintain.
I have two kids in the Philippines. Would never think about putting my kids in school in the USA. Couldn't pay me enough. Garbage schools and woke bs. I could place my kids anywhere in the world but choose the Philippines for early schooling. once they get older they can do collage anywhere in the world. You give up your paradise in the Philippines for woke schools in the US?? Your kids will not only loose their heritage and language but any sense of being a Filipino. Spent 30 Years in Texas and have two kids there now 20 and 22. You are absolutely crazy to leave the Philippines. Not only do you give you up your retirement paradise but you will ruin your kids for life.
Well Niklas, I can tell you have a strong opinion on the subject and that's ok brother. You do you and I 'll do me. I know my country has plenty of problems, haven't seen a country yet that doesn't, but It's still my country and I haven't given up on it. Where Genesis is going to school is an incredible Christ centered college prep school with an international boarding school on campus. It is an incredible environment and he is overcoming learning gaps that were brought about by the Philippines locking kiddos out of schools for 2+ years. I saw no effort to overcome those gaps by the staff in the schools he attended there. Thus the move. No woke stuff going on in the school he is attending and I am keeping a close eye just in case. Hope I never do anything that is going to ruin my kiddos!
Such a funny reason. An american move back to America for the "better education system" :D
I know, right! They did not do right by children here in the Philippines during the pandemic and as a result, they all have huge learning gaps and the effort to help children overcome those gaps, is proving to be a very slow process. Genesis has a much better opportunity at the school he going to in Bullard!