The Cat Laser

Going to pick up the prescription refills I am informed to bring paper towels, popcorn, and some cat toys. CVS should cover those bases, I reassured my tired self. I found the last cat laser and knew this would keep Hope and Yukio busy and entertained. The joy and fascination of them both was the best part of the hectic day. I can't begin to describe how big both our smiles were. It's always worth it to see him smile. I hope they play with that all day today, I really do. Laughter is one of the best medicines.

This made me realize the importance of my job as a caregiver. Not only to provide care for someone who can't care for themselves, but also love and happiness. I love that fucking laser and cat. Best decisions made. Another decision that brings much relief was shutting down Facebook and Instagram (because I'm a sociopath apparently, remember? lol). It was interesting and awkward at first to not see EVERYTHING and "be in the loop". However, it feels about 100x times better to be out of a toxic environment. An environment where cheap, cryptic shots are taken at me; It's all shit no matter how you slice it. Why talk about it then? Because I am human in this situation too, and it is unacceptable how certain situations have been handled.

One of Yukio's dearest friends from the Subaru club created a really awesome website for him. There, I will be posting weekly/bi weekly updates and short videos on Yukio's recovery. I am so happy to say that he has had a good 4 weeks with a new found sense of motivation. We are also starting a video project with some talented videographers showcasing what life is like after stroke. It will give Yukio a chance to express himself and show his story, especially since it was never my place to tell it.

I hope what can be taken away from this project is that a stroke doesn't care who you are, what you do, or what your plans were. One as devastating as Yukio's, ripped him from the fabric of his life and tossed it upside down. He is a survivor, not a statistic, and I can't wait to give Yukio the chance to show a small slice into his beautiful road recovery. One of the last conversations I had with Yukio, I told him "life is not black and white, it is colorful. It is beautiful". He now lives that every day.

FD IRW

Well, we did it. Yukio had a goal to make it for Irwindale and he achieved his goal. In the beginning, his condition was horrendous and heartbreaking. Someone had visited him early on and said he was happy and doing great, which was farthest thing from the truth. He was 99% dependent and could barely say yes or no. Fast forward to 5 months later, he is smiley (no more facial droop yay!) vibrant and embracing life. Words can't describe how proud I am of how far he came. The original prognosis was a minimum of 6 months in a rehabilitation facility. He completely smashed the expectations. He went from having less independence than a one year old to being able to feed his new cat on his own. For a stroke patient, this is equivalent to training and completing a half marathon.

From the darkest pits of depression, to letting everyone know he is "doing fine". The day before was a reunion for the rehab at Company of Mary. One of the best rehabs in the country, we shared our story amongst other survivors and their families. His therapists and nurses were so amazed to see how he was progressing and wished us well. We are looking forward to outpatient there, wouldn't go anywhere else.

Despite the record breaking heat, we managed to go around the paddock twice with one of Yukio's closest friend. I know there are handfuls of people we were unable to see, but I tried to bring him everywhere. About 4 hours in, he realized that he wouldn't make it the whole night and preferred to get a burrito instead. We ended up at curry house, go figure!

Although I know I am not very welcome, it was not as bad as I thought. Only two or three people were cold or nasty, but not as bad as anticipated. I realized for every one negative and ignorant person, there are three or four friends that were very supportive. It was then I realized that is how you have to view life; focus on the positive. You attract what you put out there, karma comes around, so always find the light. My focus right now is creating a cushy life and stable recovery for my best friend. For now, the battle continues with insurance hurdles and a constant flow of therapy. His speech has dramatically improved the past few weeks, so much so that he has learned to tell me what he wants; cable.

He even told me he wants HBO and 200+ channels. Anything for you, my love.

Wednesday Practice

Yukio and I were invited to a practice yesterday at Irwindale Speedway. The place where I experience my very first Formula Drift 9 years ago, where we first met two years ago. I thought it would be a good trial run to see how difficult it was with a wheelchair. It's not easy (no shit Emma). Seeing that smile and hearing that "OH NO!" when he saw some of his friends made everything worth it. It always does, it's indescribable how much joy I feel to see another human that I love so ecstatic. The feeling of being unwelcome is definitely overshadowed but Yukio's smile, it always is. There are not enough adjectives in the two and a half languages I know that can describe how his happiness melts the world away when Yukio smiles and says "thank you".

Being on the track was emotional for me (selfish statements coming, watch out). I've been raised to have an unbiased compassion for everyone I meet, which is why I have always tried to be friendly with everyone. Unfortunately, when you hold people to your standards, you will constantly be disappointed and stressed. So let it go. When we were at Care Meridian, we had talked about whether or not we should or should not go to this event. We decided that we would stand together and go. The past few months have flown by, but felt like years to get to that point yesterday. Again, seeing his smile made the time and the bullshit stand still.

I'm very proud of my partner for not giving up. We have traveled so many highs and lows, but he never gave up. He is still embarrassed by how his stroke has left him, but I always remind him to embrace what is now apart of him. I always told him "if you give up, I will drag you to the finish line. I'm not going to let you give up on yourself". For someone who was at the more dependent state of existence to now, it makes me wonder the story he'll tell one day.

I hope that one day we will be old together in the garage, working on the Subaru, and talking about how we made it against all the odds. But one thing I have learned, is that life is uncertain, it is unpredictable. One thing I do know, is that no matter what we will always love each other deeply. Life is not black and white, it is beautifully colorful.

Thank you team Achilles for making Yukio feel so special yesterday.

9-28-15 Dear Blogger

This weekend was a little more restful than most. We had few visitors come over to spend time with Yukio for a bit and some people come over to talk about our big project that we are going to start creating soon.

Oddly enough, I really enjoy being at work, like to the point where I look forward to coming back after the weekend. I've started a kick boxing class to get my stress out and even decided on going to a concert in December as a Christmas gift to myself . These things make me feel selfish; backwards, I know. I hear it all the time "take care of yourself", but when I decide to do so, I get criticized for it. Solution? In the words of the great Dillon Francis; IDGAFOS.

Like I said in the last post, I have started to like myself again. Over the last year or so I have definitely lost myself a bit. It's odd that during such a confusing and scary time, I found myself and my voice again. While so many tend to relish in the shit pile, I get told that I can't stand up for myself. Out of all the documents I have signed over the past 4.5 months, not one has said that I have to cater to anyone but my partner. Not one document has ever said I have to validate myself to anyone. I do the very best I can with no help (myself being the only person to handle the bulk of things) and for being 24. I am still growing and learning life. One thing that I have learned, is that you can only count on one hand those who truly have your back always.

So are there any other young caregivers such as myself in a parallel or similar situation? In the sense that we are young and taking care of our partners? I'd like to hear stories of how you guys get through the challenges, take care of yourselves, and just everything in general. Again, broken record here, does anyone feel guilty for making yourselves happy? When you buy a nice blouse or the newest Two Faced bronzer, does anyone feel like it's not deserved? I hope this sounding board can comfort someone in knowing that they are not alone in this difficult battle.

Just Tired.

With everything going, I like maybe I should be writing everything down. Up until Yukio came home, I didn't want to post about the shit I had to deal with because it was heavy stuff. I will say, some of Yukio's "friends" turned out to be complete pieces of shit and try to tear me down with spreading the bad times that we had in our relationship to try and make ME look bad. Congratulations! You just made Yukio look bad also, good job being a "friend".


In all honesty, I did feel really sorry for myself in the beginning. I was depressed, I was alone, and I had more than what I've told few going on. I've heard and had people ask when Yukio was going to recover because they need a turbo for their SEMA build. Fuck you all and your worthless cars. The hardest thing for myself is that I am a very private person. Yukio loved being public, so now everyone feels a sense of ownership and entitlement to every little detail of his health. I promise you all, I will not give that to you, especially not publicly.


It is a problem when someone unrelated by blood takes legal power of someone. I needed to step in the way I have because nothing was getting done for Yukio and I was raised to not just sit on the sidelines. The whole situation is very sad, especially since he does have a willing and able brother. Unfortunately, dedicating his life or even being around, or even texting me once in a blue moon is wishful thinking on my end. I had a little chat with him last night and hopefully that will make him realize that sometimes being emotionally involved is better than the logistics of things.


Surprisingly, I seem to be thriving under pressure and been taking good care of myself. I have been juicing, eating healthy, and taking my vitamins. All this has been making me loose weight, which makes me extra happy! I would love to work out to actually look better, but there are literally not enough hours in the day. Maybe one day. I am also lucky to have my best friend Katrina who has been supportive to me through thick and thin. Everyone along the way has also helped and been good pillars to lean on, which I love you all for.


My biggest challenge now is to keep on top of the caregivers. They are all really sweet, but one messed up a dose of medicine, another has a suspended driver's license and couldn't take Yukio to the doctors, and the one we really liked is not comfortable because she is so tiny. Oh, and the first two like to eat my food and not bring their lunch. This all may seem like bitching and moaning, but trust me, at 24 years old, I didn't expect to be so responsible and such a hard ass. However, someone has to.


I am hoping that things get settled soon, I really do enjoy having Yukio back home with me, although it is extremely tiring. I love seeing him happy, his smile makes my days worth it.


Again, I do not feel like I need to disclose more than the good times, so enjoy what I write, and we are looking forward to seeing some of you back on the track one day.

Welcome Back

It feels weird to be back behind the keyboard writing on this. I know a lot of you have flocked to my blog to see if there were any updates regarding Yukio's condition. The past few months have been incredibly challenging, but have matured me into a responsible adult. I want to set the record straight on a few things, but I just am not sure it is quite time to.


What many of you need to understand is that in all reality, Yukio's medical condition is none of anyone's business. This is not an "industry thing" not a "oh, am I cool enough to visit" type deal. This is a human being who is ill. Some people have gone as far as to ask when he is coming back to work so your stupid projects can get a turbo; a week after his stroke. I hope all of you who fall into that category feel the disgust I have for you and hope we never cross paths in person.


Yukio chose to have a very public life, and now I am giving him what he has needed; privacy. Yes, I brought him home and he is starting to improve faster. Right now, I do enjoy sharing some of our good moments in the privacy of our home. He is happy, improving slowly, and we take life day by day. I do not plan on making public much besides that, especially the extent of his injuries and general health.


I have been, from the start, taking care of everything. I am his medical power of attorney and legal guardian, so I am the point of contact when it comes to medical information and treatment. This is how it has been since day one and I just wanted to clear that up. It was only a few weeks ago we had the official paperwork executed with two witnesses. I also want to address the whole Turbo by Garrett/Workman's Comp/Cigna questions people ask and want to answer; it is NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS. What Honeywell has to do, they are doing, what Cigna has to do, they are doing. I have heard many things from people that assume what is going on because "oh well Honeywell is a big company". Don't worry about, not your place to know any of that information.


I will continue as much as I can to update from my perspective as his guardian and how my life is. Every day is a challenge that I accept with open arms and hopefully handle gracefully. Handful of people don't like me for what they think they know and that's okay. Hi, hello, keep letting it dig in your mind that I am not going anywhere. Eventually one day I will set the record straight, but that won't be for a long time.

Adam VS Eve

I felt compelled to write at pm at night after about 3 hours in a marketing class. But when inspiration hits, you just have to run with it. 

On Facebook, there is a female empower/group thing that I was added to long ago. It was neat getting to see fellow female automotive enthusiast in the area and connect with them on there. Eventually, as I assumed, it turned very cliqueish, like the girls I did not get along with in High School for being a Drift nut. I noticed very slowly the focus became more of a "women against men in the industry" kind of feel to it. To me, it just was weird and did not feel right. I have had my fair share of difficult times in the industry, but I never really took too much emphasis on the fact that it came from males.

I guess I didn't care? Seeing as I was responsible for my own actions and how I came off to people, and the fact I've always been one of the youngest, that was how I was going to be treated. Again, I never felt like it was focused on the fact that I don't have a peen. 

I don't understand these women that really aren't anything much in the industry, or performance oriented that get so offended or post ridiculous anti male/pro female propaganda. Hello?! This is a MALE DOMINATED industry, and that isn't going to change any time soon. Why do you think the few women in power now are considered "bitches" and are tough as fucking nails? Because they don't sit around and complain that men could possibly be "intimidated" by us, or anything of that sort. No. They are busy getting shit done and biting the bullet. That is the type of woman I want to become.

I started this Drift Bunny project to really have a meaning, to have a purpose. Her purpose is to stand for who we are, male or female. To be against the status quo in the strongest and more positive way. I would like to hope and think that I am helping to pave the way for female photojournalists out there or young women who want to do what I do in this industry.

I have been around for 9 years now, and never once really ever have to be so defensive for being female. Unfortunately, women majority of the time are materialized due to the model scene. But hey, models make the industry go round, and if you want to be treated with more respect that just a piece of meat, then you need to earn it. Again, 9 years. This will be my 6th year photographing and covering events. 6 years of being the Drift Bunny with the bow on my head and great articles. 6 years of proving myself that I am more than just an object, and guess what girl? I am STILL proving myself, and I know my journey is just beginning.

I feel like these stupid pages that turn into mean girl cliques, with bone stock luxury cars and expensive manicures is fine and dandy. But I wish they would be toned down, because it is pages and things like those that really make us look bad. Offended? Good. I live with a very respected member of this industry, and he does not pout when shit does not go his way.

  

One Week Detox

It has been one week on this detox/vegan journey. It feels nice to be putting my energy into something positive for myself.

So far I have experienced headaches, light fever, and dizziness. Yes, I have gone to the bathroom more, I have been striving for about a gallon of water to help my body flush the toxins out. This past weekend I was at Boost Fest in Arizona, which happened to be about 10 minutes away from my favorite Vegan café, Pomegranate Café. I managed to keep on my diet until we went to dinner. I couldn't resist, and few pieces of red meat. I did not finish it, and it did make me a little bloated, and well, gassy. HAHA.

My boyfriend had a piece of chocolate cake and asked if I wanted some. To my surprise, I just had zero interest in it, which felt good to turn it away. This whole week I have cut out all processed junk and although I can feel my body still cleaning itself, I do feel better. Oddly enough, I cannot sleep not because I am uncomfortable, but I feel super energized. When I wake up, I feel good and refreshed, no longer drinking coffee.

Today I had a light day. Green juiced fruits and veggies from the donut shop up the street, kale salad, and lentil bean soup. I feel a bit sick again right now, but I am powering through it. Just like I already knew, stress is a trigger for me to eat, it is my vice. My boyfriend is out of town for the PRI Show in Indianapolis for the week. I do miss him, even though he space is good and needed, I can't help but feel the cravings once I let the feeling of being home alone get to me. I reach for my gallon, do some work, and that does the trick.

My pants fit better, and I noticed that my face isn't so puffy. This week I am going to add exercise into the mix with no pre workout and see how my body takes it. Today I registered as a full time student at the local CC to finish my Associates program. February is going to be busy and once the racing season starts, I know things will be crazy. I want this healthy routine to be established before the fun starts so I have total control.

Thank you to everyone who has been supportive and interested in my journey! Everyone has one, I love sharing mine.

On a Tuesday

I wanted to keep a journal this time around with my transition to my new diet to compare how things went last time and this time around.

To clarify with some comments I received, NO, this is not a thyroid condition as few have suggested. As some may remember, I had an intense workout routine. I have since stopped when I moved to Redondo Beach. This and eating "regular" processed food has obviously caused my body to gain some weight. Not out of control, but obviously not taking care of myself has these side effects.

Yesterday was day one. I didn't notice anything until lunch time. I had all veggie burrito (wheat tortilla); my head and throat became very warm along with my tongue. Last night, I ate lentil soup made with unsalted veggie broth with vegan beef tacos. My stomach was not in any pain like it usually was, and the food felt "light", not weighed down in my stomach. I slept better and woke up feeling refreshed. Throughout the day I drank a gallon of water and took a plan based iron supplement before bed.

This morning, I didn't feel like I needed coffee and so far so good. I had lentil soup, while wheat toast, and fruits. Along with this, I have been drinking my gallon of water goal throughout yesterday and today. The only thing I am experiencing is a light headed and dizzy sensation, I feel like I am spinning in a circle. After doing some research on the good old interwebs, it appears my body is in shock and detoxing.

So quickly? Yes. I am not surprised, really. I have been eating like total shit especially since I got back from SEMA. Too much red meat and heavy white starches. In a way, I feel sad that I have neglected myself to the point where my body is so confused after a day. I hope to control my stress through meditation and returning to yoga.

Tonight, I am planning on having 100% vegan pizza for a treat for this awful spinning. I know it will only get more difficult, but from what I remember the first time, it only lasts about 5 days. I hope you all enjoy reading this journey though my perspective!

Take 2

It has been about a year since I transitioned back to "regular eating" from vegan. Weight gain is about all the change I thought I was going through until recently. Before I went vegan, I developed these skin rashes that I thought were from stress. Turns out, I have psoriasis. I have always been in good health, but now things are getting scary. I have been developing bruises on my hands and chest without any injury to that area. Recently, I have had ZERO energy and can sleep all day and night if I had the option. I am highly anemic and it is very frightening how quickly a year can dramatically effect your health.

The biggest thing that scares me is that kidney disease runs in my family. My father lost his kidneys nearly overnight without feeling anything, and my mother was the donor. The past year has been difficult in many aspects, and I let my health suffer as a result. I am sick now because of negligence and this needs to change.

I remember catching shit for being a vegan at the time, but that was the healthiest point of my entire life; contrary to what others may feel is "healthy". My psoriasis was non existent, I had plenty of vitamins (especially iron) and I could "feel" my organs being at full function. I have decided to try and maintain as close to a vegan eating habit as possible. Despite the teasing and negative comments, I have to do it for my health.
 
Feeling as sick as I do most of the day can't be healthy, so I am looking forward to undergoing the detox that will make  e feel like total shit even more to get myself to 100%. People like my boyfriend think it's "feminine" to be vegan, or its unhealthy. That's fine, to each their own, but I ask you be respectful in my journey, especially since I put so much of myself out there through this blog. I hope that this decision can inspire others to make changes not only in fitness and health, but whatever aspect of your life that you feel is slowly killing you as well.

At Last

At last! I have finally gotten a laptop! Thanks to my amazing boyfriend who spotted me until my student aid arrives in few weeks. I am so excited to have something to consistently write on. 

As many of you already know, I have began a Sales & Marketing position for Fujita Brakes, a new performance brake pad company. The past few weeks have been so exciting with SEMA, Super Lap Battle, and many other events. The most exciting was leaving a job where I was highly unappreciated and never told "THANK YOU" for the sponsorships I had obtained for them. Everyone has to go through tough experiences that will eventually make them a better person professionally and as an individual.

This brings me to my next subject; next season I will not continue as the Drift Bunny *gasp!* Fujita Brakes is sponsoring Chelsea DeNofa, which means I will be in my professional attire and acting professionally. Yes, you heard me, no more shenanigans! LOL. I am excited to take on this role, as it is something I have always wanted to do and be. We are also sponsoring Global Time Attack, which I have come to fall head over heals in love with! I love how there is no way to argue with results, you have your car and your transponder. Doesn't matter if you are not a popular driver, you run a fast time and that is the end of the story. The people, like every form of racing, have to be my favorite aspect. GTA family are so much fun and all around amazing. Can't wait to be apart of this series next season!

So yes, no more bow, no more cat eye makeup. But I will always be the Drift Bunny at heart and will never forget where my journey started. I hope you will all continue to read and support my adventures by enjoying my satirical outlook on motorsports though blogging and Social Media.

Female Spotlight: Luccia Cafiero

This is the one feature that I have been looking forward to write so I can really solidify my point in doing this project. The model turned driver.

When I began looking for female drivers and other inspirational women to feature, I knew I had to write about one that had always caught my attention that so happened to be sponsored by Turbo by Garrett. Her name is Luccia Cafiero and she is a Colorado based driver. When we first spoke over Facebook, she gave this laid back but very genuinely kind vibe that is rare for models in my opinion nowadays. She is not only gorgeous, but really knows her car and motorsport shit, which obviously attracts the male crowd. Nothing wrong at all with that, more power to ya girl, but other models that are "drivers" as well, have such a bad attitude and think they are God's gift to the world; they are just plain rude above all.

The merging of the two passions began about the sweet 16 age for Luccia when her now ex step father made the premature assumption that she would never make it in the motorsport industry. Shortly after signing with her current agency Donna Baldwin Talent, she decided to take another swing at racing. At about 17, she got her first STi and began making mistakes as well as learning from them all the while critics would sit and laugh at her mistakes. It's funny how people who aren't doing anything take pride in bringing others down, although, that usually motivates some people which in this case, motivated Luccia to push harder. About a year ago, she traveled out here to California to do work with Whiteline at Subiefest and eventually work SEMA with them following. There, she was able to properly network with people in the industry who also understood and saw her vision of professionally racing.

Although she has very few track days under her belt, she was given an opportunity to try Willow Springs out with a Crawford Racing BRZ where she without a doubt "prove to him and others that I was more than 'just a pretty face'". I have personally seen a lot of wannabe driver model types that rely on their looks and "pretty faces" to try and get their way, it is so refreshing that there is a pretty face with brains and dedication to back her dreams up. She is already sponsored by some heavy hitters including Turbo by Garrett, Whiteline Flatout, Turbosmart, Penrite Oil Company, and Suba Preformance, which you have to have something more than looks backing you to get these guys to take you seriously. Eventually the ones who are really in it for attention get their cover blown and are soon forgotten, however, with this road racing rookie, she will be nearly impossible to forget.

"I think being a women in this world presents its positives and negatives.  I want to prove to people that I'm not just some model that pretends to be a racer.  I actually want to be good at this and present realistically good outcomes from my driving.  I have a lot to learn and a lot to improve on, but it's something I am very focused on doing, just like what I was able to do with my modeling.  I try to keep the two of them balanced in different ways.  I was able to reach 10k followers on my Instagram through presenting my passions to a wide spread audience.  I am still to this day surprised that 10k people find my life so interesting, probably more than I do!  A lot of people like me because I'm "pretty," and I put pretty in that context because I am not one to at all call myself a pretty girl or talk about my looks, and because of my passion for cars, especially my build.  I am also very strict on the type of photos I put out there.  I am a firm believer in quality of photos because of my extensive background in fashion modeling.  Modeling and cars are two separate things for me.  Although, I do mix the two at times, I find it very relaxing to have two outlets to escape to when one may be more stressful than the other.  It's a perfect balance".

I can't wait to see what more seat time and development brings this talented woman in the next seasons, personally I'd like to see her one up the guys at Pike's Peak one day! I'm sure with her driver and backing of sponsors, that is going to seem more and more like a plan than a dream.













Oh, and let's not forget her tech sheet! 
2004 Subaru Impreza WRX STi


Engine:
GTX3071R with an ATPTurbo stock location kit
Turbosmart EWG 44mm
Turbosmart Duel Port BOV
Manley Rods
JE Pistons
OEM Crank, head studs, case halves
ACL bearings
KOYO radiator
Crawford Performance AOS
Cobb Intake 
Walbro 255 fuel pump
Processwest TMIC


Suspension/misc.:
Tien Super Street coil overs (soon to purchase racing coils)
Whiteline 22mm front sway bar
Whiteline 24mm rear sway bar
Whiteline front and rear endlinks
Whiteline powersteering rack bushings
Whiteline front and rear diff bushings
Whiteline anti-roll lift kit
Whiteline roll centre kit
TIC linkage bushings
Kart Boy shifter bushings
Penrite racing coolant and oil

Enkei RP03 17x9
Nitto NT05's
Cobb V2 AP
Custom rear diffuser, front splitter, brake ducts
Slotted front and rear rotors
Currently deciding on a racing brake pad
Stainless steel brake lines
And soon to be E85 tuned by Travis at Snail Performance 

Luccia says the list will obviously change as she gets dialed in more, along with moving out here to California to further pursue racing in the professional light. One thing that is cool about her, she never sounded entitled, she is sincere and thankful for all the help and challenges that will ultimately make her an amazing racer in the near future.

Product Review: Mother's Polishes, Wax, and Cleaners

I own am 08 Mercedes C300, and I am guilty of neglecting the poor thing. The carpet is tinted with a soft brown haze, there is makeup in the gear box boot, and the outside, don’t even get me started… She stays outside, so you can imagine the hard water stains on the doors and fenders. Thanks to our friend John Nadri, we have some great detailing products from Mother’s that brought my car back to life.

We first scrubbed down and vacuumed at our local car wash. We did not towel off the car and brought it back damp to the garage. Starting from the inside, we used Mother’s VLR spray all over the seats, dash, steering wheel, and any where my powdered makeup landed. Next after scrubbing in the VLR, we used the new Mother’s Leather Wash Foaming Cleaner for a deeper clean and to restore the leather especially in the back seats. Once the leather was done we moved on to the outside to clay bar. Yukio explained that cars should be clay bar’d 2 a year to remove the contaminates that are trapped within the top coat. 

The clay bar system comes with two small gummy like bars of clay (duh) that smell like cinnamon and Showtime spray that generously gets applied to the car so the bar can “glide” over.  My car was so abused from the elements, it felt like I was reading brail with how much the little bar was collecting. After every few passes, it is important to kneed and fold over the bar for a fresh patch of clay to continue removing all the gunk within the paint. While I was still clay bar-ing, Yukes helped expedite the process by laying down and buffing in Mother’s synthetic wax Liquid & Paste. The wax comes with a round sponge to apply a generous coat on the already clay smudged areas. I was told it is better not to buffer in a circular motion, rather horizontally and vertically, just enough to where it will haze. 

While we waited for the hazing to settle in, we used Mother’s glass cleaner for the windows, rear view mirror, windshield, and rear window. Pretty explanatory. I took care of the glass while Yukes applied Mother’s Back to Black tire renew to my Achilles Radial shoes and polished them to a shiny finish. The final step was taking a super soft microfiber towel and going over the no longer hazed wax on the car for that final glossy finish. My car hasn’t looked this good, well, since the last time Yukio detailed it about 5 onths ago, and of course when I first tested it off the lot at the dealership. It is so shiny you can CLEARLY see any reflection that comes it's way!

 

 so pretty!

I highly recommend Mother’s polishes-waxes-cleaners products to anyone who is serious about keeping a show car appearance or just have a lot of pride in their important investment. Big thank you to John Naderi for generously hooking us up and of course, Yukio for being patient and teaching me the ropes in proper car detailing.

The Weekly

What an awesome holiday weekend it was! I hope you all had lots of fun and didn’t make your liver send you an angry letter this morning. This was the first weekend in about 5 weeks that I got to spend with my turbo by Garrett busy bee and it was one of the best in a long time; everything from spring cleaning (yawn) to car activities, and hanging out on the town. We even saw 3 super cars, except I’ve seen Ferraris daily driven constantly in Redondo Beach, so I only count the black on black LFA in Palos Verdes or the sexy silver SLS on 190th st.

Memorial Day weekend began after I got off work and returned to the Taira/Candelario nest with additional groceries for one of my favorite dinners we make together; do it yourself pizza. Yukio has a whole shelf of liquor, with Grey Goose being my poison and a long week under my belt, I was definitely drinking few cosmos. Long talks on life, motorsports, and everything in between, the night turned out to be just perfect, especially with our bunny Nico running all over the place and discovering beyond the living room.

Saturday was such a beautiful day and started off great especially after knocking out like a rock the night before. Today was the day that Yukio would fulfill his goal of finally getting a small piece of the American dream; a grill. This was just necessary for such a weekend, ALL our neighbors had theirs out and we needed to hop on that bandwagon! Of course with most shopping trips, it is nearly impossible to get in and out with what is needed, and for us, that is constantly the story. We walked out with a grill and apparent expensive vacuum that was double what the price said. Being the total woman I am and not wanting to leave wrong, I insisted on going back in and making sure we really just bought the $150 cleaning tool that was listed for $90. The chick who helped us decided to just give it to us for that price since it was so confusing to understand, thank goodness for my nosiness and holler for understanding Walmart employees!

After getting home and setting up our new toys for the apartment, it was time to light up that piece of the American dream with flammable liquids and woodchips. I haven’t used a coal/woodchip grill in ages, so when I heard “relax, I’ve done this before” along with seeing huge flames spew from the small grill I believed we were totally screwed. Of course, my boyfriend is worldly and intelligent, so we didn’t die, and our dinner of pork and veggies turned out AMAZING. Again, drinks, movie, and bunny on the loose followed to make it a second great night.

Sunday morning soon began, started with our morning routine of snuggling up next to each other and checking our social media accounts. My day started on the right foot since my favorite F1 driver, Nico Rosberg, got pole position during qualifying for Monaco. *sigh* F1 Monaco, one day I’ll get to cover that event WITH driver interviews. A girl can dream, can’t she? After our daily dose of phone time, we got ready for the Hermosa Beach street festival. I remember going to one of those years ago, and this time it was spent with someone who would crack jokes at the awkward people that always seem to be at these things. The string of booths was a descent size, the middle of everything was the entrance to the pier and bars that sprinkled all around. Everything from art vendors, boutiques, and driveway pavers were present and interesting to take a gander at. There was a really interesting booth where a guy had dipped leaves, acorns, baby pinecones, even peanuts in 24k gold and you could create your own necklace or earrings with them.  It’s been a while since I’ve really gotten any trinkets for myself, so Yukio had me pick one to make my own necklace. It was really sweet, especially since he knows I like things that are unique and not cookie cutter to what everyone else owns. After the street festival, we headed home to change but ended up staying. Okay, I ended up falling asleep on the couch, but how could I not? There was a gorgeous breeze, the sun was out, and Yukio was playing Halo on Xbox. Nap time was no compromise. Like the past 2 perfect nights; survived to start of the grill, amazing dinner on the patio, hookah with movies, and Nico running laps around the house.

Monday morning had arrived so quickly, and today we were going to FINALLY clean out my stupid car. If you knew the stupid story behind my car, you would understand why I am so mean and neglect the damn thing. First things first, we needed to find a new spot for breakfast burritos, since our usual Grace Deli’s had closed down and Yukio is a total foodie for excellent burritos. We found a little Mexican restaurant in Manhattan Beach on Sepulveda that hit the spot and made decent chilaquiles, which is what I had been jonesing for lately. Finally, we got to my car, and gave her a much needed scrubbing. After vacuuming the inside, we headed home to where the fun really started. Yukio’s good friend John Naderi sent a care package of Mother’s Polish brand detailing supplies a while ago, and we used everything in that box to make my little Benz sparkle like the day I bought it. It took about 3 hours from wash to wax total, but we got the job done! Feel free to check out my review on all the Mother’s products we used to detail my car with!

During the clay bar-ing, Yukio told me stories about his show car days with his Camary he built and showed at HIN, DUB, and other car shows back in the day. After working together, my little C300 absolutely sparkled! I was then informed we needed to take a cruise to enjoy our hard work along with take glamour shots of it, so a drive to my favorite spot in Palos Verde was our destination. The rest of our weekend was spent just relaxing at home after I treated my detailing teacher to some in n out. This long weekend was so nice being spent doing few things here and there as well as some much needed productive activities that included our new vacuum and cleaning out my car. The rest of the work week should fly by and I am really looking forward to the adventures next weekend has planned for us.

xoxo Drift Bunny

I love you.

Today is a special little landmark in my life. It has been 6 months since things have been "official" my my boyfriend Yukio and I and about 7 months since we have been together. Sure, 6 months is a drop in the bucket in the grand scheme of life, however this time in my life have been the most intense and precious time in my adult life. In social media, people will share their spectrum of emotions or keep it light and positive, light and positive is what I do my best to continue. The past couple of months have been quite challenging with being laid off from a temporary work assignment to the hurdle of adapting to cohabitation. I am so human; I whine, complain, I want to run away. On the flip side of the coin, I am happy, secure and the sun shines. Now it is clear to me that these rough patches are going to always happen and I need to have faith it will be okay. Love is more than just love, it is a process that includes patience and hard work, which is now clear to me.

Although it's been a journey, it's one that is accompanied by with a wonderfully intelligent, imperfect, loving, smart mouthed, beautiful soul that is my partner in crime and boyfriend. Thank you for supporting me when I was down, challenging me with life experienced, and loving every bit of my perfectly flawed existence. You make my world worth fighting for because you are so special and I will never stop shaking my head at those who have deliberately hurt you. I promise to keep trying and keep doing beyond my best to make something successful of myself.

My support, my muse, my best friend , my Yukio. I love you dearly through thick and thin.

Here's to the next 6 months, year and years to come.