Peak Support Q&A: Al James Abalos
Al is a Senior Manager for Service Delivery at Peak Support. This kind, respectful, family-oriented, and honest man says that fatherhood is one of the best things that’s ever happened to him. The validation he gets from his son that he’s doing a great job as a father, is more than enough to melt his heart. When Al was a child, he always wanted to become an animator. He even knew how to draw Michael Jordan’s fade-away move. Although he isn’t the expressive type, Al says that some of the most romantic things he’s done for his wife are the little surprises and date nights he plans for her. Want to know something interesting about him? Al cannot stand long drives without any music on. So he plays hip hop songs loudly while driving. Get to know Al better by reading Peak Support’s September Q&A blog.
What’s the spiciest food you’ve ever eaten?
Samyang Korean noodles (the one without the soup.) Loved it! Also, at the start of the pandemic, when everyone was panic buying food and supplies, I discovered this extra spicy canned sardines called Reaper.
Who do you go to for some tough love?
I’ve been independent half of my life, so I’d say myself. However, I do feel proud talking to my mom about how I discipline my kids.
Where do you like to invest your hard-earned money?
Gold jewelries. I’m old fashioned and learned this from my mom and friends. I’ve experienced its benefits firsthand, so it gives me this feeling of confidence. Real estate would be next.
How long does it take for you to calm down after an argument?
For light arguments, probably around 10-20 minutes. But for heavy arguments, I’ll probably need a day. But I’m just chill. I don’t stress myself out too much, and just focus on the resolution and maintaining communication regardless of the outcome of the initial argument.
If you could be someone else for one day, who would it to be?
My dad when he was my age. I feel like we really have a lot in common, but I want to validate that myself. I was a bit distant from my family growing up, so I have a lot of WHY’s inside my head, that’s unanswered. It’s going to be a learning experience for me and a life-changing event definitely – as a husband, father, friend, professional, and a person.
Name one thing that you wouldn’t mind receiving every year for Christmas.
Sneakers such as the Nike Prestos. I’m often in the hunt for the early releases. I already have the Shady Milkman and Brutal Honey, but I’m aiming to have the hard-to-find Orange Monk.
What’s the worst nightmare you’ve had?
Losing a family member or someone close to my heart dying. Although I remember this dream wherein I thought I shaved all my hair. I was so worried, that my heart was pumping like I was on my spin bike before I got up. This was when I was contemplating if I wanted to shave my hair off or not. I eventually shaved it anyway.
The biggest misconception people have about me is _____.
That I am an extrovert.
When was the last time you raised your voice at someone?
This year, with my wife over a dispute. LOL! I’m the disciplinarian type, which I got from my mom. I’m passionate about family and parenting. I’m vulnerable with my loved ones. Funny thing is that people know that I am calm and don’t get mad, but it’s a different story at home or with friends. Hahaha!
As you’ve gotten older, what have you become more fearful of?
Death! I’m a father, and my kids are young. I want to see them grow and be with them every step of the way. My wife and I often talk about our generation’s life expectancy, and how we need to live a healthier lifestyle. So, we’re pretty scared at this point. But it’s never too late.
What’s something that you almost always find yourself procrastinating?
Buying “wants.” I follow the 30-day rule, but I always end up feeling bad about it especially if it’s no longer available. My wife always tells me: “You should have just bought it and saved from me the tantrums.” Hahaha!
How long can you hold your breath underwater?
Well, I smoke a lot. I just held my breath while typing this answer, 41 seconds in and I coughed.
If you could play some songs in the club, what would it be?
I feel good whenever I hear Bonnie Bailey’s “Ever After,” Sunset Daze’s “Selfish,” Maria Nayler’s version of “Naked and Sacred,” and EWF’s “Let’s Groove.”
Name a toy from your childhood that you miss playing with.
Playmates Toys Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Michelangelo Action Figure. This toy brings back a lot of good memories. The toy itself is functional for a classic piece. I can still remember the creativity that flowed when I was playing with this toy. Oh, and my Annihilator G.I. Joe Action Figure too.
Give me the top 5 things on your bucket list.
- Own a business/real estate property.
- Learn to play drums.
- Visit Japan.
- Do something extreme.
- Own and restore a 1975 Ford Escort MK1.
Check out our other previous Q&As below:
Peak Support Q&A: Autumn Heard
Peak Support Q&A: Marlou Abalona
Peak Support Q&A: Lana Charlton
Peak Support Q&A: Daniel Gutierrez
Peak Support Q&A: Alyssa Hedrick
Peak Support Q&A: Mari Lou Nina Pineza
Peak Support Q&A: Jim Ray Gacita
Peak Support Q&A: Maria Cecilia Acido
Peak Support Q&A: Manuel Co Jr.
Peak Support Q&A: Bianca Lazaro
Peak Support Q&A: Shirleen Telis
Peak Support Q&A: Roland Allan Papa
Peak Support Q&A: Marichel Natividad
Peak Support Q&A: Hannah Steiman
Peak Support Q&A: Carlos Cornista
Peak Support Q&A: Francis Eronico
Peak Support Q&A: Raezalaine Tayag
Peak Support Q&A: Bryan Rosario
Peak Support Q&A: Patrick Pilares
Peak Support Q&A: Honey Faith Belnas
Peak Support Q&A: Jonathan Steiman
Peak Support Q&A: Hazel Abijay
Peak Support Q&A: Kevin Calatrava
Peak Support Q&A: Leizl Joy Yee
Peak Support Q&A: Jan Merrick Lazaro
Peak Support Q&A: Kathleen Egger
Peak Support Q&A: George Tillotson
Peak Support Q&A: Mark Pabriaga
Peak Support Q&A: Mimi Abelarde
Illustration by Tristan de Leña
