"One Ruth Shall Rule Them All" ~~~ Ang Alamat Na May Lamat

13th on a Monday?

2012-02-13T20:42:00.001+08:00

Continuing the birthday asalto/salubong on the road! Tagaytay is now becoming a tradition. I have welcomed my birthday on express ways (SLEX) and toll gates (Sta. Rosa Exit!). Through the fog and the alcohol! Good times chilling out like there's no work the next day. Harhar. I love work from home days and good friends. :)

Got back home with my wonderful family, probably the best Monday ever (yeah I'm biased like that) and yes we have a small party at home with my mom's friends. Her birthday was yesterday. I still believe that when she was pregnant with me, she ate too much in her party then the next day she's going to have a good time in the restroom but instead, "ZOMG BABY!" was her reaction. I asked her about this and if that was what happened. Mom just told me what I said is complete ~~bull~~ fiction and maybe I've been inhaling too much carbon monoxide lately. Okay, I was not thought of to be poop. Makes my day better. Whoopiedoo!

London (Vanesssa Carlton)

Waste away the days
Waiting on a new age
But time betrays me
And I get older one more year

Now I'm staring at the sun
As if there's a riddle I'm not in on
'Cause the wolves howl to the moon
And she never answers back
No, she never answers back

And I've never been so sure
That after all these years
I'll never learn
That heavenly creatures never come
They never come

Christmas is for everyone but this day, it's only yours. :)

The Magic of 9kph

2012-02-13T12:54:00.001+08:00

I basically needed to go to the gym on a Saturday night because I haven't been inside one for a really long time. If you ask me when's the last time I did a legitimate run or exercise session, I can't remember. I'll just open my mouth and drool in front of you. If typing and clicking (the mouse) are acceptable as exercise, I am so fit I can carry a bull and run in circles for no reason. So for a change, I thought of challenging myself (because it's also February anyway, birthday month does't come too often). Why not run 5K instead of the usual 3K I do in the treadmill but for a slower pace? It worked! I was able to sweat out a 5K run without gasping for dear life and still have the energy to think of the real meaning of life. I think there's magic in 9kph. Hmmm. Finishing 5K in the treadmill without any training whatsoever is good, especially I'm thinking of joining a fun run some time soon. Oh, the next morning? My legs had a bad hangover. I felt like Stephen Hawking minus the computer voice! My legs still hurt and I really need to go back. 8 visits for February is an arduous task! Good luck for me.

MORAL: Get your feet wet first. If push comes to show, jump! (Even if it won't be good the next day or two.)

Insert Image(s) Time!!

2012-02-09T15:55:00.000+08:00

Since I'm really in a baaad moood, I'll just go on a rampage "inset image" mode.

These posts from advertisingblackswanrants are made of pure win (plus even if she looks ridiculous here, it's still Natalie Portman!). No one really cares about Valentine's Day, oh wait, there are a lot who do, and I am suddenly swamped with work. Not kidding. I'm getting the surprises of my life. Although I can't be truly sure of this one as this is just taken from tv shows or some movie scenes, I think it's like having a knock on your door then there they are: your special someone from a few years back with your lovechild appears and tells you that you have to take care of your kid (whom you just met because you prolly didn't use protection then). Just a reminder, I am talking about work.

Surprise!!!!

Me at present. Huhu. Urgent lahat!!!! Kung urgent lahat, ano uunahin ko?!

If this was asked to me, I won't sleep until it's done.
But I would add a roundhouse kick aside from the punch.

Actually, hindi ako marunong gumawa ng logo.
Guilty ako as a demanding client for this. :|

MORAL:

Enough said.

Buffet Like A Dad

2012-02-09T13:40:00.000+08:00

Monday - February 6, 2012

So when my office mug was as good as dust (my teammate knocked it over and lo and behold, it separated itself into 200 unusable pieces worthy of a jigsaw puzzle knock-off), it was time to look for a replacement. The best candidate was: my Mickey Mouse mug from Disneyland. I voiced out the idea to my friend, the human-bone, but he was firm on his decision that donning a Mickey Mouse mug in the office will not help me garner respect, especially in my new role. So okaaaay, I thought it was ridiculous so I mentioned it to another friend and he just asked a simple question, "WHY?!" Seriously, what's wrong with a Mickey Mouse mug?! So when a teammate went to Boracay for a wedding, I asked her to buy a Starbucks tumbler (always out-of-stock whenever my brother or I go to Boracay because we're peak season kids) so I would finally have something to use in the office. Say hello to my new ~~friend~~ office buddy! Definitely better than a tabo.

Tuesday - February 7, 2012

I was shaken awake before my alarm set off. This usually means instant bad mood but NO, it's my dad's happy birthday today so for some reason, I was just calm and composed then remembered we were going to MOA (Mall of Asia) for Buffet101 (come on, you know I'm not fit for a food review so no details about the place will be divulged) for my dad's birthday lunch (me and my brother work at European shifts so it's the best time for everyone to be a family). The 3 spawns of my mother plus my innocent dad (always the recipient of our bullying :[ ) and mom all together is enough insurance for a riot. Someone went crazy at the Japanese and dessert areas, only a few more days before I swear off seafood (fish already sworn off a long time ago) but I know I ate too much tempura, oysters, and shrimps a while ago. Happy birthday, fatherrrr!

*Instagram is taking over Zumi's participation in this blog. Hmm. I need to reassess and prioritize but where's the fun in that?

Wednesday - February 8, 2012

I was pretty much down the whole day because of some stomach-intestinal turbulence (if you don't know what I mean, leave it as is), headache, and slight fever which I mistakenly took for as laziness because I didn't have the energy to work at all. I have begun to question myself, "Am I really a lazy person?" "What would now happen to my future?" because of this. WorkFromHomeWednesdays are supposed to be fun and free from the corporate schedule chain - I can go to the gym (no visits yet for February what the heck) or wherever once my shift is done, no need to wait for "traffic to pass through" or whatever. However, for this Wednesday, I was glued to the couch. Nap then check the computer because I don't want to file for sick leave. Can't take it anymore so I gulped medicines. Not my type.

So Smooth Like A Criminal

2012-02-08T01:19:00.000+08:00

Since I am a fan of Naya Rivera's character Santana in Glee, I'm not sure if this performance is just really good or if it's plain great. Please tell me which one. Also, what's a "creshendow"? Can someone ask Sebastian Smythe (played by Grant Gustin)?

Voices, cello, attire (killer heels), perfect. <3

And Annie, for the record, could you effing tell us that you're okay?! Or if you're still drinking too much alcohol at some dirty pub house downtown?! Sheesh, for the love of Christ!

Weekend Goodness

2012-02-06T22:25:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday ( Feb. 4) we had a reunion in a long time. Yes, we have the immediate extended family reunion almost every month but this time, with my mom's cousins, aunts, and uncles involved, things are different. I didn't know it would be that grand and I wore my busabos look - shorts, shirt, and slippers. And from what's starting to be a trend, caught up with the latest episodes of the series I haven't watched for the week - Grey's Anatomy, Nikita, and The Vampire Diaries, while being consumed by the massage chair (tried almost all of the programs, yes, I'm that poor).

Tea party like a sir!

Sunday gave me Barney, mojos, onion rings, cheesecake, and the last full show of Chronicle. A very random question was asked to me. "What's your favorite dessert?" Cheesecake was the first thing that popped into my mind. So while waiting for our show schedule (last full show!), finally saw cheesecake! Ordered Oreo Cheesecake in a heartbeat.

Don Henrico's Oreo Cheesecake is a disappointment.

I'm really behind my 12 Days of February. Maybe because I haven't thought much about it, I totally forgot about Thursday and Friday, unless you consider new role, new work tool (that gave up on me after 12am), and new projects as monumental moments. Well? The first surprise of my life came when all of a sudden my ActivKey (enables me to connect to the company intranet) that has been working like a keychain (totally useless) suddenly worked when I truly madly deeply needed it.

I think I'll just spread out my 12 Days of February across the month this time.

MORAL: If you failed to prepare, prepare to fail. Yuuuh.

Fear of Being Ordinary and Average

2012-02-04T00:12:00.000+08:00

Taken from Ma'am Didith's blog.

Be kind to yourself. In the novel Admission, Jean Hanff Korelitz speaks about how our excellent, excellent students' greatest fear was discovering they were the average man:

Inside every one of her fellow students...was a person who didn't live up to his or her own expectations, a person too fat, too slow, whose hair wouldn't hold a curl, who had no gift for languages, who lacked the gene for math. They were convinced that they were not all they'd been cracked up to be: the track star, classicist, valedictorian, perennial leading lady, campus fixer, or teacher's favorite. The driven ones she'd known in college feared they weren't driven enough, and the slackers were sure they'd find out how deficient they are if they ever did apply themselves... She knew that they were soft-centered, emotional beings wrapped in a terrified carapace, that even though they might appear rational and collected on paper, so focused that you wanted to marvel at their promise and maturity, they were lurching, turbulent muddles of conflict in their three-dimensional lives...They feared they were ordinary kids,..., not the brilliant sparks they had unexpectedly persuaded grownups they were. Ordinary and thoroughly average. Ordinary and undeserving.

The Corporate Dog Illustration

2012-02-03T12:45:00.000+08:00

This is the start of the corporate life cycle. You (still) have that pa-demure look in your face and the innocent ambitious vibes. You're not (yet) sure how the system operates and how to get to the bathroom without looking like a confused tourist.

Then it will be like this in a couple of years. Toughened up by experience, you don battle scars and your bag is loaded with tips and tricks and a handful of workarounds to get things done your way (mwahaha!) - complete with the "wet look" plus killer's look (read: NOT killer look), and oh, don't forget the eyebags. Don't lose your humanity, even if you're being compared to a dog's photo right now.

But here's the total illustration of the family tree. The employee dog is really adorable but if you relate yourself to that dog after working for just a short time, better look for inspiration, motivation, and probably the energy (that is not brought about by caffeine) to follow-through. It's a matter of time before you start drooling on your dreams.

MORAL: Dogs are cute. They are capable of being loved. Employees are cute, too. Please love them/us.

February 1st

2012-02-02T10:02:00.000+08:00

On the 1st day of February I have nothing special. Scumbag taxi drivers still drive like scumbag taxi drivers, there's still that pothole at the corner on your way to the office, or that you have to endure your cravings because you're saving money to last the week.

Or maybe it's just that we overlook the everyday things and think there's nothing new or different enough to notice. My February started without me doing the yawning-stretching-to-the-sunny-view thing, I welcomed it when I noticed it was already 3am because I was finishing some things for work.

Since I need to be in the office early, I woke up with news that my uncle already got my CDs from Amazon. YAY. He'll be in the country on the 12th so yes, there's something to look forward to in the coming days (aside from my parents' birthdays). Another thing: the parking fee in the office is already PHP 60 flatrate for 12hours. </3

On the 31st Day of January

2012-01-31T23:04:00.001+08:00

Yesterday, just two days before January ends, I declared ala Andres Bonifacio that most likely there would be no 12 Days of February this year. I'm currently in the no-sense-of-excitement time of my life, if there's such a thing. There were seat sales for the different airlines but my spiking-crank-like energy was nowhere to be found. I used to jump out of the bed or wipe everything off the table just to book flights - domestic or international destinations. This time, it's like I can say, "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn." My browser crashed and all my opened tabs (full of readings and "saved" pages to be read later) went to oblivion. In the most lethargic way possible, I enunciated, "Oh snap," looked to my right then shut down the computer like nothing happened. By the way, when that happens in the past, this is how I would feel and look like (but I have long hair now):

Enervon, I need you. I'm looking for that ball of energy.

MORAL: When you fall down the ditch, before you try to pull yourself up, before you pray someone to arrive to your rescue, you just sit there. Admire the silence, sit with your solitude, and look at the stars above.

Not A Book Review

2012-01-31T11:30:00.000+08:00

Jay Asher's debut novel.

Over Christmas break, I have been devouring books pretending I don't have work (yes, I am in the corporate setting and we have Christmas break). When the tv series had their breaks as well, that was when I had all the time in the world to start reading. At least a chapter before sleeping is the minimum requirement but most of the time I can flip through a lot of pages in a short time so books are pretty much going by smoothly for me.

For Christmas, I got a couple of books from a friend and they were eaten alive even before the start of work week. Happy New Year! I was reading while waiting for the food. I was reading while waiting for the fireworks. I read after waking up from alcohol-inspired sleep. Afterwards, my friend/teammate lent me her copy of "Something Borrowed" which I also watched its movie adaptation (I still love you, Kate Hudson even if I dislike the whole concept of Something Borrowed). Then another teammate lent me her amazingly awesome "Thirteen Reasons Why" which is on the Young Adult genre dealing with teen suicide. The writing style and approach offers something fresh while the plot is really intriguing! It can keep you up and reading on and on. I'm going to start with "The Tipping Point", my 3rd Malcolm Gladwell book (done with "Outliers" and "Blink").

The last book I finished and the current one I'm reading.

However, this is not about any of those books. The main reason I wrote this entry is about Eros Atalia's "Ligo na Ü, Lapit na Me" and it's the book I have read after Bob Ong's "Ang mga Kaibigan ni Mama Susan". Yes, borrowed from a teammate again (three teammates mentioned here are all different people, so I'm still not making a library card yet!). It was so painful that I even had the energy to jot things down in my red tickler! It has a film adaptation as well, which I haven't watched.

Dec. 18, 2011

"Ligo na Ü, Lapit na Me" na aklat ni Eros S. Atalia ay galit sa letrang "i" at tila nilayasan ng editor. Hindi sa pagiging grammar nazi o kung anuman, sabi nga ng may-akda na ang pagsusulat ay pakikipag-usap. Maraming mga hiram na salita pati mga madalas na ginagamit sa salitang Filipino ang na-"murder" ika nga.

May mga bahagi rin dito na ipinahayag ng may-akda ang saloobin niya sa mga isyung pambansa. Hindi ko masabi kung out-of-place sila o talagang gusto niyang tumalakay ng mga isyu sa libro niya. Dapat daw ang isinusulat ng writer ay parang tabloid o kending nailalako sa lansangan na mura, accessible, at readable ng lahat.

Maganda ang intensyon, kulang ang laman.

Australian Open 2012

2012-01-30T17:39:00.001+08:00

I refuse to write an entry about the Australian Open. (Sore loser.)

Here's the Finals results for my own convenience. A reminder of January 2012.

Women's Finals (Martina Hingis presented the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup to the world) showed Victoria Azarenka's ascension to the top spot with a sweet bonus, her first Australian Open title by banishing Maria Sharapova with a brutal 6-3, 6-0 win.

Then the Men's Finals wherein Novak Djokovic outlasted Rafael Nadal with a 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7 (5-7), 7-5 for his 3rd Australian Open title. It was an epic 5 hour and 53 minute match. I left home, attended Sunday service, then got home for the 4th set tiebreak. I thought my blood pressure was going to pop my veins.

And yes, I refuse to call this an entry.

Amazon Warrior!

2012-01-25T00:30:00.001+08:00

Amazon is my best friend when it comes to giving me my CDs. It is also my worst enemy because it can siphon my money even while I'm sleeping.

There are only few balikbayans returning to the Philippines for vacation or from a vacation so better be fast at clicking and ordering at Amazon to have your "free shipping" from the US to the PH! Nyohooo.

So what do we have now? Say hello to my new CDs! (Yeah yeah, I'm already happy with these.)

The Submarines' "Love Notes / Letter Bombs"
Kate Voegele's "Gravity Happens" (Her song "Impatient Girl" is very much applicable to me.")
She & Him's "A Very She & Him Christmas"

I just realized I have been in love with indie music - folk, pop, rock, whatever indie. However, there are no CDs of those artists here in the Philippines! I think I'm going to die if I still run after them. And just a while ago as I type this, I hope my orders for Michelle Branch and Vanessa Carlton's CDs push through! That would be my birthday present for myself. Still a cheapskate compared to other folks. Haha.

MORAL: Money is not happiness, it's just a tool to get there. :)

Balanced Life

2012-01-09T14:37:00.000+08:00

Work-Life Balance...is not applicable if you believe that your work is your life. Others make work as an excuse for their laziness to go out and mingle with other people - those one can see, feel, hear, smell, and...taste. Example:

"Yo, get-together on the 25th! See you there!"
"Ehhh.... I am busy eh...."
"Huh? It's after your shift kaya! Dude, it's on a Friday!" (Yes, the dialogue is between 2 conyo friends. So don't make pakialam that much, 'kays?)
"Have work eh..." (Truth is WLB-Loser is just really lazy to go out.) "I need to finish this real soon."
"Pfft, whatever, loser naman. Wala ka bang life?!"
And then there's....
"Define life nga sige."

MORAL: Balanced means ensuring your health, relationships, (and) mental peace are all in good order. There is no point of getting a promotion on the day of your break-up. There is no fun driving your car if your back hurts. Shopping is not enjoyable if your mind is full of tensions.

Don't take life seriously. If we are lucky, we may last another 50 years. And 50 years is just 2,500 weekends. Do we really need to get so worked up?

Those words were taken from a shared life lesson in Facebook (Chetan Bhagat of Symbiosis as it read).

Hong Kong and Macau - 2011 Edition

2012-01-05T22:23:00.001+08:00

Welcome to the cold November 11-14, 2011 not-so-China Amazing Race!

Won't use the Pasalubong Guide, Itinerary, Travel Tips, Budget, Contacts template I have gifted myself with because this thing is crazy!

Since 2011 has brought me to places I have never been and never seen, I really owe this blog a couple of entries from 2011 (huhu lazy freak). First time to be out of the country with my brother and he made me plan for the trip. Yes, I crammed on the itinerary and was on the brink of diluting the map and drinking it just to make it stick to the back of my mind. Going to Hong Kong and/or Macao means a pretty nasty walkathon, as both places are really convenient for walking around. So unless you're a South Korean woman or someone from Sex and the City, stilettos are to be left home and comfy shoes/espadrilles are to be worn.

Anywhere, anytime. You have my heart and wallet,
Milk Tea.

Remember to get a map at the airport (it's free no duh) and staple it to your skin.

Let's jump straight to the ocean (pun intended)!

DAY 1 - Nov 11 [ Ocean Park Like A Boss! ]

I don't know why we got a really early flight when we all had to leave the office late the night before. So me, my brother, and his girlfriend were crazy sleepy. We're going to stay at Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) so ready the maps and the eyes for the trip!

So from HK International Airport, walk your lazy bum to the bus area and take the A21 route - double-decked bus are common in HK so enjoy the view as much as you can. After paying the remaining dues for the living quarters (Ashoka Hostel is a good and clean one promise), the next big question is, "What now??" Let's go to Ocean Park! Here's how to go to Ocean Park from Tsim Sha Tsui: Take the TST MTR Exit F/G to Central and get off to Admiralty (next station) Exit B. Take on CityBus No. 629 (you can buy the Ocean Park ticket there as well). Boom all set!

Real Panda!!!!

Here's what they call a "red panda" huhu cuteness.

Ocean Park is really, really big. It'll consume your whole day as they have animal attractions (poor kids, I seriously pity them) with a cable car inside the theme park going up to the mountains where their thrilling rides await you. Plus there's a light and fire show around 8pm so if you're planning to go here, allot one whole day for it, you'll be knocked out after gushing at Ocean Park.

Cable Car with crazy line.

Yes, never imagined jellyfish would be so cool.

Notes:
- Buy the Octopus card from the MTR as it'll be your ticket to all the wonderful places in HK.
- As of Nov 2011, Ocean Park ticket (includes all attractions and rides) costs HKD 299.
- Lines at Ocean Park are really long so if you're visiting HK, try to schedule this bad-ass during weekdays as you might decide to just go jump into the pool on a weekend line.

They'll be delighted to have you in the chlorinated pool
they're being kept in prison.

DAY 2 - Nov 12 [ Buddha Blesses Disneyland at the Victoria Peak ]

This day made my brother want to kill me. As much as I really wanted to have Victoria Peak on the 1st day, being sleepless the night before was taking its toll on us as after our hole-in-the-wall authentic HK dinner (the server was rude and mean, definitely authentic!) we slept like bears on hibernation mode.

Early day as we're conquering Lantau Island. First stop would be Ngong Ping Village. Yes I want to ride a huge cable car (Ocean Park's was just a warm-up) to see the Tian Tan Buddha. Here's how to go to Ngong Ping from TST: MTR TST to Tung Chung. Walk to 360 Ngong Ping Cable Car (you'll see it across). Purchase Crystal Cabin tickets to Ngong Ping Village.

Here's the cable car to the village!

Crystal Cabin... with that clear flooring experience.

We didn't purchase any other entrance fees, only the cable car ride because honestly, I only want to see Buddha. Period.

After a short climb on the stairs, you can see Buddha up close!

Tick, tock, tick, tock. The tour guide says it's time to move on! Let's go to adventureland to meet Mickey Mouse and the gang. We were on schedule as we got to Disneyland around 2pm. From Ngong Ping to Disneyland: MTR from Tung Chung to Sunny Bay then Disney Line. That easy!

Disneyland would feel so small after being in Ocean Park the day before. So you could really roam around and waste your time at the long queues for the rides. Just be prepared for the parade!

And yet the day is not over for us! Hahahaha I'm really pushing it this time as I really want to go to Madame Tussauds Wax Museum as well. How to go to The Peak Tram: You can reach the terminus on foot from MTR Central Station J2 exit. Just follow the signs and you'll survive. :)

Long liiiiiiine.

After this, all we had in mind were food and rest.

Notes:
- Remember to get the Crystal Cabin to go to Ngong Ping Village and see the Tian Tan Buddha. The price difference is not that much and the line on the way back is shorter. Plus it's also pretty to see the lush greeneries underneath.
- Once you're in Disneyland, check the schedule of the parade immediately. Then circle your life around it. You're in there for the parade and the fireworks!
- Disneyland entrance fee is pretty heavy. HKD 399!
- Buy the bundle of Peak Tram (to and from) plus the entrance fee of the wax museum and Sky Terrace. Around HKD 210. :)
DAY 3 - Nov 13 [ Avenue of Stars at Macao ]

We're planning to go to Macau after our early visit to TST by just walking around the neighborhood. However if you're coming from elsewhere, MTR East Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit J, and follow the signs. Yeaaah.

Starbucks as usual. Haha.

After visiting the Avenue of Stars, we grabbed lunch and walked to China Ferry Terminal. How to get there: TST Exit A1. If walking from TST, walk across to Nathan Road then proceed along Haiphong Road then turn right along Kowloon Park Drive and left across to Canton Road to the First Ferry Terminal. Purchase return tickets as well (no duh).

It's about the free hotel shuttle buses, how to utilize them:

Ride the Sands Shuttle Bus > Sands Casino, Fisherman's Wharf
Ride the Lisboa Shuttle Bus > St Paul Ruins, Senado Square, Monte fort, museum, Rua da Felicidade (street food), fountain, Loukau Mansion, St Dom's Cathedral, Holy House of Mercy, Kuan Tai Temple, Bishop Office, Jesus SQ, Old City walls, Mount Fortress, Museum, St Anthony's, Sir Rob's
Shuttle to Wynn Macau > Golden Dragon, Tree of Prosperity, Fountain
Shuttle to Venetian > Lunch at Food Court, City of Dreams, Gondola Ride (it was an amazing experience during my first visit to Macau!)

St Paul's Ruins.

Don't ever ever forget to visit The Venetian
but it'll be impossible to miss anyway. :)

Notes:
- Macau can be visited in one day. Remember to take advantage of the free shuttle rides offered by the hotels. Get the last ferry ride home as Macau is amazing at night. :)
- If you're not spending much on Macao, don't bother having your HKD changed to MOP (Macao Patacas) as they can't be used outside the little kingdom of Macau.

MORAL: The world is such a beautiful place, really, promise, this is true. ~~When you include vile human qualities into the argument, I'll get Chuck Norris to destroy you.~~ There are a lot of magnificent places outside your home and they look waaaay better up close (not just in magazines and television). And it's true, getting lost is half the fun. Just prepare your legs as adventures begin when things don't go as planned. And remember to take photos. :)

Not enough money for your trip? We'll talk about that soon. Oh yeah!

So This is the New Year

2012-01-02T14:36:00.000+08:00

2011 was so spectacular, just thinking of how 2012 can top it, or at least be at par is already giving me hypertension (that is not contributed by the chopped up lechon on the table).

I have been to a lot of places, made big girl decisions (and committing to it), and have experienced the intense grief of losing someone very special. I have seen the sharp edges of friendship, encountered people who make the world interesting - in both ridiculous and amazing ways, have appreciated the fruits of hardwork (plus accepted that God will provide just not always in our suggested time which is NOW), and more than that I have valued my family in exponential times and realized that life's too interesting to feel bored and useless.

We make our paths, maybe with the help of other people, but we need God to make it the right one.

2011, you've been so memorable I pray let's make 2012 end-of-the-world-level exhilarating! :)

It's already the New Year. Now let's get a life.

Christmas Break

2011-12-30T03:19:00.000+08:00

I envy my friends who can produce heartfelt, emotion-filled entries with 3,000 lines well-spent. When I start writing something, I stop mid-sentence and flash the events back. I get warped to the scene that cause whatever feelings I have and get lost in that dimension.

All I can type of right now are about teas, books, movies (or series), travel spots, and music. Oh yeah about life as well but entries that are taken from the strongest vein in my body that can make your heart skip a beat? I'll pass. I can write out dialogues, scripts, lines, those that can be movie-worthy (self-confidence, yee-haaaw!) but anything that is really from my own? Nah. Someone please pass the popcorn, I'm watching Revenge and re-creating the whole thing in my head.

See, the only thing I could say now is how anal I get inside music and bookstores. I have been spotted arranging the CDs at a popular bookstore when there are multiple copies of the same artist distributed all around. What ever happened to categorizing or having them arranged alphabetically?! No one wants to flip all the CDs over just to know if the artist they've been searching for is just behind the Justin Bieber hair-covered album cover staring them in the eyes?

One win moment I had when I went to Fully Booked was when my friend shouted at me, really confident that the book I picked up (in a motion to buy it) was fugly. He swore that I must not purchase the book just because. That book has been on my list for so long and this person is spitting venom into my face by saying it's not worthy of being bought! Turns out 2 of my most wanted titles are what he got me. Yaaay!

Here we have a Maximum Ride novel and also one from
Jonathan Safran Foer. It's a Merry Christmas indeed!

MORAL: Want something? Ask but do not expect that much. :)

Christmas Thing

2011-12-23T00:41:00.003+08:00

These shortparagraphs glued together in one entry were drafted last Dec 24, 2010. Wow,almost a year of being stuck in my phone!

Christmas.

This would be mymost expensive Christmas so far. I'm not setting up the electric chair justbecause of the cash out that occurred. Ijust computed my expenses, that's all. Recomputed it and still yielded the same numbers. My brother told me it's okay - it's myfirst Christmas with my own earnings. Good enough.

Seeing gifts from meand for me at our gift area (no, we didn't set up a tree this year becausewe're all getting fat already) makes me excited for Christmas. Presents I get from friends are leftunopened till Christmas. Such a kid. Self-control is necessary to restrainone's self from violently tearing those neatly wrapped presents. Family members arewriting each other's names, with my brother the surprising revelation as he'sgiving stuff now (Edit: now that it's 2011, he freaking bought an HD mediaplayer for everyone).

Honestly, I don'tknow why my family still give me something. Them helping me all the time and justbeing there is a present I thank God for everyday.

MORAL: It’sChristmas season. Since there's noThanksgiving (holiday) here in the Philippines, this season would be the perfect time tothank people who are important to you or those who may have touched your lifein one way or another. In giving (presents or tokens of appreciation), we are thanking them. :)

We're in the Russian Parliament, Baby!

2011-12-18T01:53:00.001+08:00

When my ~~boyfriend~~ ultimate favorite (former) tennis player decided to go into politics, I thought maybe he was a little sexy-mad that time. Then poof. He freaking won. Marat Safin is part of the Russian federal parliament. Although he's part of Putin's party which is currently the target of 140% voters-turn-out jokes, in my heart I know a lot of people voted for him. So shut the crap up and believe in Marat Safin! I wonder how many tables or chairs would be smashed when he's mad. Incredible Hulk. You no make Marat mad.

MORAL: When you're a retired professional athlete, either go into show business or politics. It works.

Vanessa Carlton - Carousel

2011-12-15T00:10:00.000+08:00

Of course, when I realized I posted Michelle Branch's music video, I searched my blog if I have also included Vanessa Carlton's. Holyfreakingmotherofnine!
(And music/videos are my instant posts if I haven't blogged for so long. :| )

One of my favorite artists should never be missed out. Dear friend, you'll get back around. Believe Vanessa Carlton. :)

For all you broken-hearted lovers lost
Go find another one
Cause you know time won't wait and you'll be late
White rabbits on the run

But the goodness is something you don't have to chase
Cause it's following you

And all you'll hear is the music
And beauty stands before you
And love comes back around again
It's a carousel, my friend

Kate Voegele - Impatient Girl

2011-11-28T23:07:00.001+08:00

I ain't never been a patient girl baby
I ain't built like this
The way you're taking your time has got me jumping ship
And I won't lie let's call this what it is
An impatient girl waiting on an empty wish

I'm an impatient girl

Kate's a little too thin here and her hair is... ho-hum.

Yet the video is good with a little (or miniscule) mix from Foster the People :)

Glee - Rumour Has It / Someone Like You

2011-11-21T10:46:00.001+08:00

Glee Season 3 was initially dubbed as for the Broadway fans with songs far from the mainstream crowd, unless you are cultured enough to be exposed to the musicals (which unfortunately I am not hahaha). Yeah Britney, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry songs as well as their mash-ups propelled their ratings last season but they pretty much failed to make a dent in their premiere for Season 3. The world is united in saying that story/plot is obviously not a priority for Glee writers (if they really have one), so it leaves us with performance and song selection to get the audience hooked to the show like bloodsucking leeches.

Although it didn't initially hit the right spot (what do you expect from a decreasing audience share?), this episode has brought back the enthusiasm of their initial fan base. They were able to redeem themselves in their 50th episode titled "Mash Off" bringing in a lot of songs both classic and recent hits. Hello, Blondie, Lady Gaga, and Van Halen? They brought out the missiles! Adding that since I am biased for Santana (wuhoo Naya Rivera!) and as agreed by my friend, it can be announced that Santana and Mercedes (Amber Riley!) basically "saved" the whole season with their mash-up of Adele's "Rumour Has It" and "Someone Like You." Adele needs to have an altar somewhere. I'll bring the candles.

This has been on replay since the day it was shown. Yes, it's included in my daily routine. Rhythm, dresses, coordination, overall performance. The Troubletones wins over New Directions in a heartbeat.

"What did you just tell her??"

You know how the episode goes. :)

Light's Beautiful Surprises

2011-11-17T14:00:00.000+08:00

So it was mentioned how I'm not much of a fan of sunlight and bright lights but being a fan of lomography and toy cameras means I have to go and embrace ~~the killer cancerous UV lights~~ daylight while wearing my protective ring (yes I still believe I am a vampire up to this date so just go along and don't let me use my compulsion prowess on you).

Tian Tan Buddha

Whenever we go out in broad daylight or when my parents drag my carcass somewhere else (they pull me by the hair), I always bring along Zumi (the size of a credit card) and get some shots whenever I can just so I can make this camera fulfill its expensive destiny. We're into purpose-driven life here, ya know.
PS: I am still looking for a wrist strap and camera case though. If you know where I can purchase message me!

Fishies from our aquarium slash hand washing area. I kid.

The shots might come off as a surprise even though there's an LCD screen in the middle of the camera for reviewing your photos because practically Zumi's viewfinder is as useful as your appendix. Best shots result when there's more light (sing "Sunny daaaaay lalala....") because the colors are more exposed to the camera. Good photos is equal to bad skin.

Eastwood Mall indoor shot. In Monochrome Hard filter.

I admit that Zumi is no match to DSLRs or other point-and-shoot digicams when it comes to zoom, megapixels, focus, sharpness, etc. Making this toy camera seem to be more impractical and "expensive" are the camera applications available in iPhone and iPod Touch's that can capture clear and "fun" photos as well. Hmph. I'll still keep my sumptuous, saturated, daylight-loving, vivid camera. Nothing can replace the fun factor it has, the beautiful mistakes that could come out from the shots (versus the "perfect" photos from the lomo apps), and not thinking of post-processing anything at all. Unless you want to put fangs on your sister's normal portrait shot. I know I do. >:]

MORAL: Don't think. Just shoot. It's about time you have fun. :)

I'm not missing my film camera anymore. This thing is making me happy, really trigger happy.

Bandwagon - Going Elsewhere

2011-11-15T23:43:00.001+08:00

Everyone's hating on Twilight, so I'm going to watch Breaking Dawn when it premieres.
Everyone's all crazy over the trailer of The Hunger Games so I'm going to wait for the 2nd release of the trailer or just wait until March 2012 - the premiere of the movie.
All the folks are queuing at milk tea stores and raving how much they love it. I'll just go mix and sip my own Thai milk tea.
Everybody's writing their own travel blog. So I won't. A travel blog that's all about the writer? S/he should have just written about his/her life then include, "oh wait I went to Antarctica because it's sooooo cool there."
Everyone takes photos of everything. I snap a few and keep the moment in my mind. A lot of great experiences are missed just because you took a photo of it (and you were looking at the screen).

Everyone's travelling and going elsewhere. Promo fare here, voucher deal there.

This.
I.
Won't.
Stop.
Even if everyone's doing it.

Seeing the world and all the differences, beauty, and unpleasantries included make up for amazing stories you could amuse yourself with. The excitement and danger (yup!) are part of it. How many times have you dropped your jaw in astonishment? Have you thought about life when the sun is setting and the cool breeze is sweeping by? Plus the life lessons you'll learn, the experiences you'll encounter, the time you'll kill, the money you'll ~~burn~~ spend, the people you'll meet, the languages you'll murder, the photos you'll take, and the memories you'll keep - priceless.

Don't brag about your trips, don't feel insecure of the number of hot spots your friends have been to (quality over quantity!). Take one island at a time, one country at a time. The world is for your taking. :)

Michelle Branch - Loud Music

2011-11-09T00:43:00.001+08:00

We're making loud music.
You and I.
So loud. So loud.
:)

Michelle Branch.
Still my favorite after a decade. Good times.

Time to Be Personal Again

2011-10-28T11:04:00.000+08:00

This thing has been in the drafts for too long. I don't know why I haven't published this. It's now freaking October and the items are for August/September!!! Well October brought about a lot of issues so it might still be applicable. :)

Now is the time!

Time to make the blog personal again! > This one really sounds similar to a computer company's ad slogan before and yet it is exactly what I need. I don't keep a diary/journal of my life - imagine if anything's supposed to be a secret, you must leave no possible evidence behind! So pretty much all items I have are open to public reading and scrutiny. Read: Evidence = Paper Trail = Diary.

Friends summed up August for me and since we work in the same place, the career thoughts are also similar:

- Trusting the wrong people or "friends." Bullies never grow up. They have deep unseated insecurities in life. Awww. Tss. -.-

There will be bullies wherever you go. These are people who need to instill fear in the consciousness of people in order to assert their so-called influence, or to protect such influence from becoming irrelevant.

But at the end of the day, these are simply individuals filled with insecurities that they can only cover up by making others submit to their will.

I don't get why people put up with such behavior but I do understand that it's better to be on the safe side because there are perks to that. It's okay to just keep quiet or laugh along with their "witty" jokes making fun of other people rather than being on the receiving end of their wrath.

To that I say, what the fuck! We're simply reinforcing their actions if we don't question them and it further gives them a license to treat people in such a way. It's like explicitly allowing colorum buses to run wild in EDSA. It simply shouldn't happen.

No one has to go through the experience of being shamed through negative tweets, offensive status messages, and maybe direct confrontation and no one has the right to subject others through those things.

(Bondoc, 2011)

- Frustrations are not like the existence of rain showers and thunderstorms in a tropical country which just pop out like zits and you can't do anything about it. It's because one has set certain expectations and disappointment is part and parcel of that. I have set the bar high and I'm willing to work my tendons to not just reach it, but go over it. Competitive as agreed, which is why I willingly endured all sacrifices (lifestyle according to pay, time, and work requirements) all for the sake of experience and better opportunities. Maybe I got the experience right, although I'm not sure on the opportunities part. Maybe we have different priorities in life and posting an ultimatum on getting things done might or might not work for me (hello it may even backfire!). I don't want to just go with the flow and let life take you as you ride along to its course. Control freak much? Boohoo, unlucky me.

I am not fond of waiting. I never was. It has always been similar to "what I want, I want it now" or okay if not now, maybe a little later but it must be in the time frame that I can still remember (because I might be matampuhin and ditch the whole idea if I don't get it right away). If this is the time I have to learn how to wait, well, hopefully this is that part already. Patience is keeping a positive disposition while waiting. It is a virtue after all. :|

Maybe I have to be a little loose. Learn to sail with the wind and use it to my advantage, because I'm sure as tweaking my own propellers to go in the same direction.

MORAL: Aside from getting a regular font, thanks Rach for the life lessons you have shared.

Take away all the people (and things) that make me sad, disappointed, and worried. I will take away all the negative vibes that this month brought into my life. I will take away expectations, unrequited love, people with so many issues, and irritating/negative ones. So, if you're one of the ones mentioned above, I'm sorry but I do not have room for you in my life :) Again, I do not need lots of people to share this journey with, I just need the right ones :)

Take one day at a time, one role at a time, one friend at a time, one project at a time, one boy at a time, one experience at a time, and I am sure, things will be way better than this month :)

Surround myself with people who make me happy and inspired, of people who want to be part of my life, with people who care enough with what I'm feeling, and with people whom I can trust.

(Dimaculangan, 2011)

Yes. Life's too short to feel all crappy about crap (people include). These lessons aren't like pills wherein you just need to swallow to feel better. Having this kind of disposition would take time to develop, well at least for me, and yet I know this would yield a better world in the perspective of a mermaid.

Captivating Coron

2011-10-26T22:07:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Mary for the title. October 20-22, 2011

My previous trip was last July where we went to Puerto Princesa, Palawan. After more than two months of travel-hiatus, I am now back on track! Since this was already planned long before the schedule of my project was released, it hit straight into the middle of the testing period. I wonder if my PM hated me because of it. Hmmm.... I swear I must have bought more cashew tarts...

Where did I bring my stuff to? Coron, Palawan!

Zumi's shot of Palawan. And we haven't even landed!

Packing my hiking bag and trotting along my near-retirement sandals, Coron is definitely the place to be when you want to cry on the inside because of being awestruck with beauty. Coron is located at the northern part of Palawan. It has its own small airport (much like Caticlan's), Busuanga's Francisco B. Reyes Airport. From the airport, there are a lot of transfers to the town proper. Standard fare is PHP150 whether you arrange for pick-up or just ride when you're there. Just tell them your lodging and they'll drop you on its doorstep. Travel time is around 20-30minutes depending on how crazy your driver is.

And you'll think you're in New Zealand with the cows roaming around like a boss.

We stayed at Coron Gateway Hotel. It's pretty popular with the locals because when they ask where we are checked-in and we say the name of the hotel, they never fail to say "Oooh," then add, "Mahal dun ah." If only they knew we were on promo.

First on the list is the famous Mt. Tapyas. There are 724+ steps to reach the top and see the giant cross that lights up at night. Better bring a bottle of water because you'll be in for a ridunkulous climb. What's interesting here is that you can get to fully appreciate Mt. Tapyas once you start on your island hopping adventure. You can see from afar that there is really a "tapyas" in the mountain - which our local refreshment vendor shared - a bomb hit that side of the mountain. Uh-huh.

724 steps? Worth it.

Before you give your legs time to realize it's already aching, you can speed off to Maquinit Hot Spring. Word of advice is to NOT jump in as the hot spring is really...hot. Take time to adjust to the temperature and it will be a relaxing treat.

You have been warned. This is a TYPICAL scene/view in Coron.

So what is Coron all about? The bluer than blue waters and amazing rock formations that are just around the corner. First is the post-card friendly to-die-for Kayangan Lake. Getting there would already give you the "Ahhhhh....." and then you'll die again when you reach the lake after a short trek.

Welcome to Kayangan Lake! Where the water is so clear you need to stop and pray, thanking God that there are still places like this.

Stop in the middle of the trek to bask in the beauty of the scenery.
And no editing needed. It really looks like this.

Start crying.

Ok. Cry again.

After swimming our hearts out in Kayangan Lake, we start the snorkelling adventure. Fish-feeding at Twin Peaks.

Here fishy fishy!

The usual, you get to have lunch at a powder-white beach somewhere in the group of islands surrounding the area. Hello Atwayan Beach!

Seriously, I can't write anything more. Hahaha. It's not even blogger's block! Next stop would be Coral Gardens wherein we had a lot of casualties both physical and emotional ones. We had so much fun taking photos we didn't notice 3 of our life vests have been carried out into the ocean. A quick call of help and Kuya Jeff, our friendly bangkero swam like Michael Phelps. How about the physical one? The corals are so near you can actually step (and accidentally destroy!) on them as well as have your skin grazed by its body.

Coral Garden from the boat!

Nature at its best! Don't get yourself near these babies.
They're mood-killers.

Hello there!

After the traumatizing hit of Coral/Sea Urchin Garden, next would be the unmaintained white sand beach of CYC (Coron Youth Club) Island. There are animals in there! Monkey and cats all begging for food. Poor babies. :(

This would've been a pretty picture if that person is not there. Haha

Last for the day would be Twin Lagoons. This time with brackish water.

Next day would be a surprise. As we opted to have Skeleton Shipwreck added in our itinerary instead of Siete Pecados which is also a fish-feeding/coral site. My friends were already traumatized with their close encounters with the corals and would choose anything over them. We made the perfect choice. Seeing the WW2 wreck below two floaters and hearing the howling dog from the nearby island - it was like Halloween was a little bit early for us.

Place is so freaking pretty.

You can see the hull from above!

My merman friend with the shipwreck and a fish in one shot. :)

The water was sooooo clear you can see the shipwreck even from the boat. No need to dive into the wild water to see it but heck, you're already there! There were a lot of fish in the area as well so you could do fish-feeding and say collective oooh's and ahhhh's by the minute.

Hello hull of the ship!

I swear I'll be coming to Coron just to take a shot at the number of the shipwreck sites around. There are a lot of shipwreck sites and it would be stupid not to visit them. We passed by Sunset Lagoon on our way to Banol Beach - another white sand beach area in Coron. Seriously, with clear water and white sand everywhere, all other places are like trash already.

Sunset Lagoon. Just passing by!

Banol Beach. Perfect place for photoshoots, swimming, and everything else. White sand, free monkey entertainment, and lots of good sites. We had brunch/lunch here and basked in the beauty of Banol Beach before moving on to our last spot.

Banol Beach more awesome with me there. :]

Banol Beach

Crazy clear waters!

Last stop would be Barracuda Lake. It's like Kayangan Lake all over again, this time smaller and more serene. There was once a barracuda in the area but then I guess it started eating people so they caught it. Kidding, of course.

Purrrrfect!

Pasalubong Guide:

Hmm, similar to Puerto Princesa, Coron is pretty much popular for the cashew. Maybe it wasn't on season but the price of the cashew products is ridiculous for a tightwad like me! Popular pasalubongs are lamayo (danggit - marinated semi-dried fish) and the usual cashew tarts.

Itinerary:

1st Day

Mt. Tapyas

Maquinit Hotspring

Pasalubong buying

2nd Day - Start of the Island Hopping

Kayangan Lake (so awesome it's already annoying)

Twin Peaks

Atwayan Beach

Coral Garden (injury time!)

CYC Island

Twin Lagoons (Can I cry again? This place is sooo beautiful.)

3rd Day

Skeleton Shipwreck (very very memorable for me) (We swapped this with Siete Pecados because we have seen so many corals we'd go crazy if we see another set.)

Sunset Lagoon

Banol Beach (perfect photoshoot place)

Barracuda Lake (no barracuda)

Travel Tips:

- Bring small change. There are ATMs in the town (Allied Bank and BPI) and most establishments don't accept credit card.

- Don't forget to have breakfast at Sea Dive Resort. Nice view with free coffee/tea!

- Always bring sunblock wherever you go. As well as sunglasses!

- If you don't have an underwater/waterproof camera, rent a waterproof casing. Although it's best kept in your memory, taking a snapshot of the beauty of Coron won't hurt anyone. Not even when you're old.

- If you don't want to rent water shoes, wear slippers with strap or sandals you can use when swimming. Some areas have shallow corals and you might hurt your feet.

- Don't forget to tip your bangkero! They'll be your guides and your divers when you drop something into the ocean deep. I know I dropped something and our boatman can swim like a free diver.

Budget:

- Airfare (one's on sale while the other's not!) = PHP 2033 + 200 + 20 (back & forth inclusive of terminal fees for both NAIA Terminal 3 and Busuanga Airport)

- Tricycle Fare = PHP 8

- Van Transfer = PHP 300 (PHP 150 one way)

- Snorkel Gear Rental = PHP 100 per day (You can try to ask that they waive the fee on the last day, because we did. :p )

- 3-Day Tour = PHP 550 + 650 + 750

- Lodging = PHP 1850 (3D2N)

Contacts:

Coron Galeri (http://www.corongaleri.com.ph) for all your tour needs. Great people! :)

Don't you even dare contact Coron Gateway Hotel! I know the place is great - location and the hotel itself BUT the receptionists there suck so hard they can be Chupa Chups endorsers. It's suggested to just try the lodges and inns around. There are so many places to stay at Coron you don't really need to book in advance (and I thought this was just a joke).

MORAL: 3D2N is a joke. You definitely have to plan for 4D3N all the time. There are more than 7,100 reasons to enjoy the Philippines. And Coron? Is definitely worth it.

Breakeven

2011-10-14T00:47:00.003+08:00

August showed me how difficult people can be. Those whom you think are your friends suddenly shoots you and broadcasts it to the whole world - even if they're holding on to wrong information.

September showed me how difficult it is to be on the receiving end of a client that throws tantrums like crumpled paper. It also made me realize the real meaning of "clingy" and "needy" and this is even related to work. Yes.

October showed me that no matter how awesome you feel or how superhuman you can be, there are only 24 hours in a day and you can only do so much. It's both sad and humbling.

Oct 13 has been really something. I threw the can of Pringles on the floor, shouted at that moustached-face and then snapped back to reality and continued what I was doing. Being chased by a lot of crazy people and then accepting that you have to delegate tasks even if it might mean more work for you (teach, supervise the work, and re-check the final output) is no easy feat and yes I tried to squeeze them all in. I was decided to go to the office but I had a heavy heart. I prayed to God to help me see the balance in everything, the good in the bad.

What happened after I prayed in the car, the emergency lights in our garage turned on meaning we don't have electricity. So it was a good decision to go to the office huh. Halfway, rained poured like a waterfall. The good? My car won't be nominated in the "City Cars That Look Like It Traveled in the Desert" category. Not to mention God made me not lose hope in humanity even after all the shenanigans that happened (see August and September paragraphs above) because of the REAL friends I have in the office.

I still pray to God to make me accept that things really do happen for a reason and that we're not under the power of luck.

MORAL: Grant to us the serenity of mind to accept that which cannot be changed; courage to change that which can be changed, and wisdom to know the one from the other, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

Colour Missions

2011-10-05T17:55:00.000+08:00

Adidas Colour Missions are 4 tracks available for download at www.adidascolourmissions.com wherein the soundtrack will keep you running and running to complete your mission. There is a voice over telling you to slow down into a jog, run as fast as you can, and egging you to continue running to either avoid being caught by the police or to be on time for your performance. It's like being part of Grand Theft Auto except you can't ride anything (or hit anyone) as you'll keep on running and running in your mission for about 15 minutes.

There are 4 missions to choose from:
Colour Mission Yellow - The Getaway > You're a bank robber making your getaway.
Colour Mission Green - The Mothership > You're racking to make contact with a UFO.
Colour Mission Blue - Rock Star > You're a rock star late for a gig.
Colour Mission Red - Before Dawn > You're being chased by vampires.

So I tried listening to the missions while working, and all I can say is.... nothing. Maybe it would feel different if I try it out on the road?

Side note since we're into Adidas anyway, while I'm still a proud owner of Adidas Fluid Trainer Light, my next target would be Nike Free Run+ 2 and they're pretty heavy on the wallet! Wait wait, Adidas Climacool Ride is also a good prospect in blocking my bank account. The red CC (yes we have monikers now) Ride is definitely making a print on my mind! Both running shoes rank high in reviews and in the price department. *tears start to well up*

MORAL: Run, walk, jog. Whatever it is, chase pavements and let your heart rate rise.

Ang mga Kaibigan ni Mama Susan (Bob Ong)

2011-10-03T00:30:00.000+08:00

So Bob Ong has 8 books scattered across the Philippine Literature section of National Bookstore. I used to follow his books religiously and agreed with what he shared in his printed works. Then I realized that... Wait.

Again.

Ulit.

Naalala ko na may entry na pala ako sa aking blog tungkol kay Bob Ong at sa huli niyang librong aking nabasa - Kapitan Sino. Sa nakaraang buwan, bigla ko lang nabasa habang naghahanap ng oras ng UAAP Finals na may isa pa palang librong nailabas si Bob Ong pagkatapos ng Kapitan Sino. Ito ang "Ang mga Kaibigan ni Mama Susan" na kumalat na noong 2010. Nalungkot ako na hindi ko man lang nabili kaagad ang libro noong nakaraang taon, pero nagpabili naman ako kaagad nito matapos kong malaman na iba na ang ikot ng kwento ngayon. Hindi na tungkol sa mga nakatatawang jokes at pangangaral ang ginawa ni Bob Ong. Unang subok niya ito sa horror o di kaya'y supernatural na genre.

~~I was really hoping that~~ Puno parin ako ng pag-asa na hindi na gagawin ni Bob Ong ang mga shortcut niya sa pagsusulat. Alam kong maraming tumatangkilik sa kanya at mga simpleng "niya" "siya" na nagiging "nya" "sya" ay nakukuha ng mga mambabasa na marahil ay paniniwalaan nilang tama. Grammar Nazi ba ako? Hindi ah! Ako ay concerned citizen lamang. Nabigo lamang ako, namimilipit ang aking mga paa tuwing nababasa ko ang "sya." Balik na nga lang tayo sa libro. Parang journal-type ang style ng pagkakasulat, nagsasalaysay ang bida ng kanyang mga karanasan sa Maynila at makalaon, sa probinsya kung saan naroon ang kanyang lola - si Mama Susan. Kaya nating paganahin ang ating mga imahinasyon at alam natin ang tagpuan ng mga kinaugaliang horror movie, kaya sapat na ang mga detalye para makita mo ang nakikita ng bida sa istorya. Hindi ko ikukuwento kung ano ang nagyari sa libro (baka gusto mo pa basahin, go lang!) pero masasabi ko lang na hindi nakatatawa ang libro (malaking kaibahan sa mga unang naisulat ni Bob Ong) at kahit hindi masiyado pulido ang istorya, saludo ako at sumubok ng ibang genre ang may akda.

Aral: Mayroon pala talagang mga libro na maiisipan mong sinayang lang ang mga puno sa paglimbag dito. Isipin mo, PHP150 din yung libro ah, parking fee ko na iyon sa 3 araw. Kung gusto mong basahin yung libro, hiramin mo nalang sa akin.

The Band Perry - If I Die Young

2011-09-30T01:45:00.000+08:00

I've always known I won't live that long, to the ages when I just count leaves that fall from the trees, or dust being swept away by the wind. Don't mistake me for being scared of senility. Growing old doesn't appall me but I really believe I'm not the type of person who wants to experience Earth revolve around the sun a little more than 60 more years.

I may have missed the point of this song but it's really such a beautiful one. And no, I'm not dedicating this to my current project nor lifestyle. :)

If I die young bury me in satin
Lay me down on a bed of roses
Sink me in the river at dawn
Send me away with the words of a love song

Lord make me a rainbow, I'll shine down on my mother
She'll know I'm safe with you when stands under my colors, oh and
Life ain't always what you think it ought to be, no
Ain't even gray, but she buries her baby

A penny for my thoughts, oh no I'll sell them for a dollar
They're worth so much more after I'm a goner
And maybe then you'll hear the words I been singin'
Funny when you're dead how people start listenin'

The sharp knife of a short life, well
I've had just enough time

Lost and Found Identification

2011-09-30T01:37:00.001+08:00

So when Rach was complaining about blogging and how she misses it (maybe because of work), I told her it was like I was cramming my blog entries for the past few days - obviously I'm doing my best not to let a month go by without posting anything (yes no one needs to remind me I missed posting entries for February and April this year). I don't know what to post for September 29 aside from I brought a really late gift for a friend and that pretty much sucks if it's the highlight of my day.

I was really looking forward to the project celebration when I returned to our office area. I found out that my ID was a goner! I even walked all the way back to McDonald's across our office just to trace back my steps. No ID holymotherofhebejeezus! I talked to the guards and also to the receptionist about it and the latter gave me a paper to fill-out. It was a report of loss form and it had too many fields. So while I was down and about to give up, one maintenance personnel approached me in our workspace and handed me my ID. He mentioned that when he saw the ID, he noticed the photo, realized that it was familiar, and thought that he recognized the person. So he went straight to me ending his speech with, "Buti ma'am ako nakakita." I wanted to hug manong right then and there!!!! Then my officemates asked me how come he knows me. Good question, since I've been staying on the 7th floor for almost a month and was a no-show on the 5th floor (where manong approached me). :| Nonetheless, manong saved my day from being ruined at 4:30pm!

So I won't mention here that I ate a lot during our project celebration, got really sucky emails from this horrible person, that I almost hit more than 12 hours in the parking lot (Php 100 will burn like fire), and that it was the first time I reached 110kph driving on the road (EDSA-Ortigas FTW!) that is not a freeway, plus I still ate after going home. Hahaha such a pig, a stressed out pig.

MORAL: Share a smile with strangers. You don't know how vomit-inducing their day has been. :)

Awkwaaaaard

2011-09-29T00:51:00.000+08:00

September means new and returning series for everyone.

So aside from the multiple tv series (Grey's Anatomy, The Vampire Diaries, Nikita, Glee, Desperate Housewives, did I forget something else*?) I am copying and downloading and not sharing any information about how good they are, there's a new MTV series I'm getting my hands on and it's...

Awkward. (That's the title!)

This is probably the last still that Jenna Hamilton looks like this
because she becomes fabulous afterwards and no, it's not makeover.

They thought that social outcast Jenna Hamilton tried to kill herself wherein she just got into an unfortunate accident and this event begins her rise as a celebrity in her school (as the recipient of the negative kind of attention). The cool, err, crazy semi-retard guidance counsellor is a great source of hilarious-WTF moments while her friends fart witty banters left and right. Awkward has a very decent soundtrack (no duh, it's from MTV) and a humor not everyone will love - and it perfectly works for me. Sad part is that it only has 12 episodes per season and I'm not sure of its longevity.

"Oh look a dead girl playing Dead Stacy. Congrats, Jenna. You just became a cliche of yourself."
"Cliche means stupid, right?"

WIN.

Where's my The Walking Dead and secret-violent-or-murderous-something series?

MORAL: Be afraid. Be very afraid of the teenage American culture.

*Oh yeah, New Girl starred by Zooey Deschanel looks promising, too, but only because it's Zooey. Would probably write about it when they have excreted more episodes.

Sink or Swim - Sinkholes!

2011-09-27T09:30:00.000+08:00

Ever since I saw the photos of the urban sinkhole in Guatemala, sinkholes have taken my mind to another level. And when there was another touch point of sinkholes in my life - thanks to Grey's Anatomy season 8 - from sinkholes I have moved on to reading about hyperventilation, mammalian diving reflex, shallow and deep water blackout, and freediving.

One minute you're driving in the city
then the earth crumbles then... POOF!

A HUGE BOTTOMLESS PIT APPEARS IN THE INTERSECTION!!!!

While sinkholes in the middle of cities are extremely mind-altering, there are those that can leave you awestruck. Here's one sinkhole from Oman (you can find a couple more in the link below). I don't know the name but it's still beautiful (and accessible!) nonetheless!

Of course, with freediving comes greater measures of wonder. Others have their dream vacation spots (hello, Santorini!) and here lies the Top 10 Coolest Places to Swim - our sinkholes definitely included in the list (not the Guatemalan sinkhole you coke-freak!).

I'm still hesitant to learn scuba diving because I fear that I would go crazy on it and blow off my money on diving so I'll settle for the Devil's Swimming Pool on top of the Victoria Falls in Zambia. Well, I'll probably be a homeless person for the airfare going there anyway! Look at the natural infinity pool that has a to-die-for (pun intended) view from the top that is not brought about by latest true-to-life LCD television screens.

Devil's Armchair. Fall....in love.

See the Top 10 Coolest Place to Swim here.

MORAL: This world is amazing and we are forever living in mystery of its beauty. So don't freaking blow the mountains, the coral reefs, or uproot all the big trees you can find.

Run To You

2011-09-26T16:34:00.002+08:00

Would probably update this with the photos of the singlets, no?

While I was dying with all the stress and time-sucking corporate activities, a friend managed to slip a fun run into our busy schedule. Yes I know I haven't posted much for August and September (funny I didn't have any trips scheduled on both months, too) and we're fast approaching October! Geez, I can still remember things that transpired last March (where is my Korea post/entry?!) and when I look at the time, holy heaven geebeezus, it's REALLY almost October already!

Back to the fun run topic, the last five runs I have joined, was forced to join, was threatened to join, are all for charity - or at least their advertisement says so. I only have 2 requirements when joining fun runs - for a cause and singlet inclusive (whether it fits me or not I do not mind anymore).

1st - December 12, 2010 - EcoRun 2010 at Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
My first 5K run, I initially just wanted to try running a 3K because I have been running in the gym (hello treadmill) for about a month. However, my friend Troy said we can pull off a 5K so we upgraded our registration (no extra cost anyway) and ended up running an extra half-kilometer because we got lost - we were running the 10K route! Well, a lot of people got lost because of the lack of marshals! After joining a few more runs, indeed, this is one of the poorly organized running events - very few hydration stations, late gunstart (the sun was sharing UV rays already when we started) and lack of marshals.
Running for: more trees!

2nd - April 30, 2011 - Skyathon Boracay Beach Run 2011 at Boracay Island, Aklan.
This is also my first beach run and my first time in Boracay (loser me). Well, there are not much beach runs anyway. I swear I'll be coming back to Boracay! Two of my officemates and I ran the whole 5K with our barefeet and the sand was really fine. Surely any callus you have will be one with the white sand, which the early beachgoers will rub onto their skins, haha. There were a lot of sponsors for this event (best loot bag EVER), free food, and they even had a disposable timing chip for the run. A very memorable run as we drank a lot the night before and had no sleep. Hahaha! Not to mention the singlet fits perfectly. Way to go, Skyathon organizers!
Running for: beach clean-up!

3rd - July 03, 2011 - Vision in Motion Fun Run 2011 at MOA, Pasay City.
First 5K fun run with my new running buddy, Taliztae. No sleep from the night before! We just watched movies and brisk-walked to and from the venue, perfect warm-up and cool-down. Worse singlet fit ever I had to wear my Adidas tank underneath!
Running for: Ideal Vision's foundation and "Save Your Sight" campaign.

4th - August 07, 2011 - HP Fun Run 2011 at McKinley Hill, Taguig City.
We're leveling up! Taliztae and I have been running around McKinley for a couple of times already, with all the uphill and downhill challenges the venue gives us. So running 9K would be easy, right? NO. We have to run around the area 3 freaking times, with crazy uphill and downhill on both ends. Good thing is that there were a whole lot of hydration centers in this race, not to mention it freaking rained a few minutes before the event and drizzled during as well. First wet run! Fuuuuun. Running in the raaaain!
Running for: PGH Wards 9 and 11.

5th - September 25, 2011 - Fam on the Run 2011 at McKinley Hill, Taguig City.
First 10K run! Since we were not able to get any map for the race, I initially thought we're running the same course as the HP Fun Run last August. WRONG. This 10K run starts at Venice Piazza fountain area then all the way up to Fort Bonifacio and onwards to Bayani Road reaching Heritage Park and back. The fail part here is that I thought it would not start on time like what happened in the last run. So I ran far from the starting area to change clothes and then went up to our office to deposit my things and then back to sprinting uphill all the way to catch up with my friend. She noticed how red I was and I was so parched (where are the dang hydration areas?!) I wasn't able to speak until after our slow jog, actually I thought I would black out there from sprinting uphill and not stopping at all haha. There were lots of freebies, too, not bad!
Running for: The Medical City's Department of Pediatrics Charity patients.

What's next? Improving my 10K time! What's the ideal time to finish, anyway?

MORAL: Don't just run for the singlet, run for the challenge and the cause! Yes, running for charity makes it easier to say, "even if my time sucks, it's okay, it's for a good cause anyway." So you won't beat yourself over and over for running really slow on the event.

City in a Forest - Puerto Princesa, Palawan

2011-08-31T16:55:00.001+08:00

Still going with the Pasalubong Guide, Itinerary, Budget, Tips, and Contacts part.

This was supposed to be set last May but my PM then suggested that we schedule our trip to July. So there, we had our Palawan adventure last July 7-10, 2011. A bittersweet nature trip it was.

Puerto Princesa, Palawan is one of the most beautiful places I have seen. It is the cleanest city as well as considered to be the "last frontier" from non-sustainable urban development. It is a marvel to see such a wonderful place in the Philippines. Amazing flora and fauna. Truly breathtaking.

From Puerto Princesa airport we were picked up by our transfer and brought straight to Manny's Guesthouse - a backpacker's haven. The rate is very affordable and if you're travelling with friends and decide to get the 3 rooms on their 2nd floor, you can have the supposed-communal kitchen and bathroom all by yourselves. Mr. Manny is a very kind person (you can ask him of the good spots to eat and place to buy souvenirs).

Ka Lui's!

Suggested restaurants are the Balinsasayaw for real bird's nest soup and Ka Lui's for their good food, great interiors, and homey feel that's not overpriced. It was pouring when we started out our tour, visiting Plaza Cuartel where there were memorial markers for the American Prisoners of War. Afterwards we visited the neighboring church and while the heavens were dumping water on us, we just went to the tiangge-tiangge for first shot of buying souvenirs. Here, truckloads of cashews, magnets, keychains, and pearls can be found.

A marker for those who were starved and burned to death.

Someone's looking for pearls!

Next stop is the Binuatan Creations. Don't forget and hesitate to try out weaving. If you're such a cheapo or not in the mood to purchase bags but is feeling guilty that they let you try out the machine, you can purchase pretty 15-peso bookmarks. Yes I did, so quit snickering.

It's fun to use those machines!

Apple really wanted to see the crocodiles so she was ecstatic the moment we got to Palawan Wildlife and Rescue Center. This is also where you can buy/order nice shirts that can be personalized (put your name or whatever you like such as scientific names). Picture-taking with a baby croc costs Php 30 while they also sell crocodile sisig and sausages. Don't forget to have a photo with the fruit-loving bearcat.

Biggest croc caught. That's really big. Promise.

Long live these hung-over crocs. Don't you dare drop your cam.

Next in the list is Mitra's Farm. It has a nice view perfect for couples. Yes it ends there. Hahaha. Next would be the nearby Baker's Hill wherein you can stuff your mouth will crinkles and get a real sugar high.

Fresh air!

Afterwards, off we went towards Iwahig River for a short visit to Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (open prison!) and go Firefly Watching (an awesome display of natural Christmas lights). The mangroves and the population of the fireflies here are amazing, so are the guides. They really know their work. Here is where you have to apply 10L of insect repellent lotion because I got the worst mosquito bites of my life.

You can't get in, just stop to take a photo.

Iwahig River

We basically prayed the whole night for sun the next day and if we can, we'll blow away those cumulonimbus clouds as we're going to our Honda Bay Tour (snorkelling and island hopping). Dang it! This adds intensity to the already amazing Puerto Princesa.

This is just a parking lot for the boats. PARKING FREAKING LOT.

Three places only: Pambato Reef for the corals, Snake Island for the sandbar and the fishes, and Pandan Island for swimming and sandbathing - basically just rolling over the white fine sand of Puerto Princesa. There are other islands that can be visited for the Honda Bay Tour but those three were the ones we got for our tour.

Pambato Reef

Snake Island

Pandan Island

So what is Puerto Princesa all about? The finalist for new wonders, the Subterranean River National Park aka the underground river with basketfuls of bats. It's really so beautiful you may want to cry.

Another beautiful docking area.
Just a docking area for the underground river-bound boats.

Just passing by.

The outside of the Underground River. :)

Pretty pretty. Batman and Robin would be so proud.

Fall in love!

And then the Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour wherein you can see lizards (you have to be sharp to see them so eat your carrots) and get the chance to have a close-up on those centuries-old mangroves. Those trees are hardcore I tell you, flexible but sturdy. Also, don't forget to have a taste of the local woodworm (tamilok).

Tamilok in vinegar. Just like oyster. Hum!

Planking on a log in a swamp.

Must be from Pandora [Avatar].

The last leg would be of Ugong Rock. Spelunking plus zipline equate to a perfect end of the trip.

My really thin friend Ryan on ropes. Haha.

Pasalubong Guide:

- Cashews, tons and tons of cashews in different styles/forms such as cashew butterscotch, cashew pastillas, roasted cashews, cashew tarts, cashew bag (kidding)

- Woven products ranging from wallets, bags, hats, to bookmarks (it was mentioned they supply to Kultura Filipino)

- Pearls (earrings for everyone)

- Palawan shirt!

- Croc meat available as sisig and sausage (huhuhu)

- Baker's Hill products (their crinkles are popular and I don't know why, they taste pretty average to me)

Itinerary:

- City Tour (package!)

Plaza Cuartel
Binuatan Creations
Palawan Wildlife and Rescue Center
Mitra's Farm
Baker's Hill [sugar overload]
Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm
Firefly Watching [where my legs got killed by the mosquito community]
- Honda Bay Tour
Pambato Reef [corals galore]

Snake Island [amazing snorkelling place and sandbar]

Pandan Island [swimming beach!]

- Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

- Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour

- Ugong Rock

Travel Tips:

- Palawan is a huge nature park. Don't ever make the same mistake as I did, ALWAYS bring and apply insect repellents! Those mosquitoes won't care if you're from the urban city or some passing comet. They will attack without hesitation. And be wary of dengue alerts.

- Don't miss out on your local woodworm. It's a good Fear Factor-like challenge to your friends or family.
- Although they offer waterproof casing for your camera, it is best to bring an underwater camera as I know it would take your mind off of the probability of water seeping in those cases. Hence, more brain energy would be devoted in enjoying Palawan!

- People in Puerto Princesa are really friendly and always engage you in small talk. Return the favor to them by giving tips (don't be such a tightwad) and enjoy the conversation. :)
- Go to Ka Lui's and order their Green Mango Ginger Shake that tastes weirdly amazing. Don't forget to walk around the area to see their art gallery as well.
- Experience Itoy's Coffee Haus with their in-house performers. Be warned though, their coffee is expensive (for me).
- Tricycle fares (which you may opt to ride if you just want to go somewhere in the vicinity) range from Php 8 to as high as Php 50 depending on the distance.

Budget:

- Peg the airfare at around Php 1,800 per trip so allot Php 3,800 for airfare (including the terminal fee).

- We basically spent around Php 4,600 per person for the tours (which include lunch already) plus additional Php 450 for Ugong Rock (caving and zipline).

- As usual, you'll be spending a lot for pasalubong (or is it just me?) and souvenirs.

- Manny's Guesthouse is pretty cheap. Here's their rates per night:

Family Room [2 double beds] at Php 600
Deluxe A [1 double bed] at Php 500
Deluxe B [2 twin beds] at Php 400

Contacts:

- Manny's Guesthouse (http://www.mannysguesthouse.com/)

- Pretty Planet Tours (Manny can also create your tour package as he has his own tour group)
- Prime Adventure (http://www.myprimeadventure.com)

MORAL: Once you stop and try to look around, you can see the beauty of the world. And when you have your peace, don't try to blow the place up. The future generations deserve to see this wonder.

Difficult being a star.

Welcome to the Family: Liam and Zumi

2011-08-22T19:34:00.000+08:00

Two new additions in my trash bag are Zumi and Liam. :)

I love Moses to death, he's been loyal to me since the start of my college life. He's my default companion whenever the benches are full and he made commuting and walking (whether along Katipunan or inside Ateneo) tolerable. Then there's the thing about me enjoying the whole running phase. I don't know, I think I can run farther when I'm not listening to music, I don't know. Well, a bank company sent me an instant credit card and their promo is a discounted 6th Gen iPod Nano with a watch/wrist strap. So now, I have Liam, the iPod Nano six generations younger than Moses! I pretty much ate my words as I said I'll just switch iPods if mine's not working anymore. Moses still has the guns, I just need to update him and he's up to par with Liam, even if the latter's memory is more than twice what Moses can handle.

Liam in a red wrist strap. You have to guess his real color, though.

Ever since I sold my Holga, I'm still attached to the whole lomo-effect, complete with vignette, saturated colors, vivid effects included. So what's the next best thing? When I was able to have a few bucks to spare (which I could have donated I know) and news that the lens company is not producing more of the lens they use in this camera, I was all set to march to where I can buy this digital "lomo" camera. Hello Zumi, the Digital Harinezumi 2+++ (triple plus!) camera by Superheadz imported from Singapore! Expect random photos included in the posts courtesy of Zumi.

Zumi's camera-shy. So settle for the photo he took. :p

Hullo Liam and Zumi, you both were the results of my bereavement. And both are pretty painful in the wallet.

MORAL: If you can't sleep because of it, if you can't eat because of it, if you can't breathe well because of it, it's just one thing: infatuation. Or in this case, gadgetoholism. Shut up, I just made that up, okay?! August has been really tough on me, really, really tough. I'm just holding on.

The Submarines - Brighter Discontent

2011-08-22T15:10:00.000+08:00

Got a brand new roof above my head
All the empty boxes thrown away
I rearranged the place a hundred times today
But the ordering of objects couldn't hide what's missing

All these things, should make me happy
Make me happy to be home again
All these things, should make me happy
Make me happy to be alone again

Got myself a bottle of red wine
Got a night with nothing else to do
I think I might know what I really want
But is a brighter discontent the best that I can hope to find
Got a big black television set
Now I can watch just what I want
But I'm here staring up at pictures on the wall
Where are you, you're still stuck inside 'em all

But love is not these belongings and surroundings
Though there's meaning in the memories they hold
A breaking heart in an empty apartment
Was the loudest sound I ever heard
Got a desk, I'll write myself a notePretending that it came from you
On hotel stationary, from the time we first met
Whatever I can do, 'cause I won't throw my hands up yet

But love is not these belongings that surround you
Though there's meaning in the memories they hold
A breaking heart in an empty apartment
Was the loudest sound I never heard
But I'll be fine if I don't look around me that much for what's gone
If only I could wait here just a little while and let time pass in my room

Ilocandia Trip - The Best of Ilocos

2011-07-28T00:12:00.008+08:00

I'm trying to improve my Trips and Tours page so now I'm adding new features such as Pasalubong Guide, Itinerary, Travel Tips, Budget, and the most important Contact Numbers at the end of the post/entry. Enjoy!

My college friends and I caught a plane (Cebu Pacific) to Laoag at lunchtime to start our exciting long weekend last month. It was certainly an adrenaline-filled Ilocandia trip as upon arriving, we just had a good lunch (hello Poque-Poque Pizza!) and then went on to ride our 4x4's en route to Paoay Sand Dunes for our sandboarding experience.

Poque-Poque and Dinardaraan Pizza on the menu!

A 4x4 ride to the Sand Dunes to meet our fate!

From sandboarding about 2-3 hours, we rode a bus to Pagudpud and basked in the glory and beauty of Blue Lagoon (Saud Beach is the more commercialized beach in Pagudpud, we opted for the privacy of the former).

Sandboarding down the dunes.

Waking up to this scenery that is the Blue Lagoon. Fall in love!

We stayed at Pagudpud (Agua Seda Beach Resort) and started our tour. Yes, Blue Lagoon is as beautiful as you can imagine it to be. It is secluded and only a few establishments are in the area. Nonetheless, the sand is not as white and fine as Panglao nor Boracay, but it serves its purpose.

Abot Kaya Cave

The first stop of our Northern adventure is the Abot Kaya Cave (read that it means "hole in a mountain") and you need to walk through the rocks to get to it. Afterwards, we came to the end of the Philippine map - the famous Patapat Viaduct. The view was spectacular! After tons of photo ops at both places, we went to Kabigan Waterfalls, wherein you will pay a small fee for the tour guide. It's more like contribution to those who are taking care of the place. A short trek (made fun by your companions) will lead you to the hidden waterfalls of Ilocos Norte. You can swim in its greatness and relax with the sound of the falls.

Kabigan Waterfalls

Patapat Viaduct

From the edge of the country (can you hear Lady Gaga's song "Edge of Glory" right now? No? Hmm, maybe it's just me.), our van coursed through the roads and reached Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. As usual, I was just enamoured by the sights that when I saw the lighthouse I immediately said aloud, "Isn't this the haunted lighthouse featured in the television?" My friends looked at me and then our tour guide retorted, "Ah, you saw that show too! Yes, this is it." I was not happy. Although the antique lighthouse bears spirits on its own, it was said to only make its presence felt to those who have sixth sense. Still, I was paranoid all throughout, haha.

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

I told you it's creepy!!! So scared like a kid.

It would really be weird if you won't take a photo of this. :)

And then we went farther, into the Kapurpurawan White Rock Formation. This scene almost made me ask, "Why is this place so beautiful??" and I prayed and thanked God for touching our technology-hardened hearts (there was no phone signal after all). You need to walk through a vast land of rocky terrain and slippery stones to get to the best view ever.

Lovely sandstones.

View from the Rock Formation.

You have been warned. This place literally rocks!

Last stop for Ilocos Norte? The man-made powerful behemoths that are the Bangui Windmills! These windmills are situated along the shore as they generate energy for the neighboring town. Our tour guide parked right below one windmill and the moment we stepped out of the van, it was like Final Destination on steroids. The windmills are freakingly awesome and you'll have a sudden connection to your childhood self for some reason.

Bangui Windmills - Scream your childhood!

You have to hug this thing.
The sound it makes is perfect for LSS all the way. *whooosh*

We ought to ride a bus on the way home (yes it's now money over time as we're wannabe backpackers). There's a bus stop in Vigan, so all is not lost on the hopes of visiting Ilocos Sur! Hello Calle Crisologo! It's a long strip of cobblestones and Spanish-style establishments. There are tons of stores along the street and basically, the whole of Vigan is as old school as it can get. See their McDonald's? Yup. There was McDo during the Spanish regime!

All that this resto lacks are cobwebs. Wait, I saw a humongous spider inside.

Does that count?

Calle Crisologo

Jose Miguel Bautista dela Merced ate at this McDonald's. Who he is I don't know.

Pasalubong Guide:

- Vigan longganisa (your family and friends will kill you if you don't buy this!)

- Ilocos empanada

- Ilocos chichacorn
- Wine/s (I got wild berry wine and local cherry wine)

- Pagudpud keychains (those shells are cute)

- If you speak Tagalog will go gaga over their shirts (especially the green-minded ones, oh don't you dare deny it)

I bet you like the shirt. There are other designs as well.

- Mini Bangui windmills (great on your tabletop and for those boring moments)

Mini Bangui Windmill!! Cute!

Travel Tips:

- Pack on some trekking sandals or put on some drainmakers to make your trip and your feet comfy as you will trek on wet and rocky places.

- Sunblock is a must as well as sunglasses.

- Bring a small bag for your stuff, preferably a waterproof pouch for your money and gadgets.

- Bring water especially if you sweat profusely.
- When buying pasalubong for your team/officemates/blockmates, opt for food so you can also share expenses with your travel buddies. Being thoughtful need not be expensive!

- Enjoy the freaking view.

Our itinerary for the 3 days we stayed in Ilocos:

- 4x4 ride and sandboarding

- Blue Lagoon, Pagudpud

- Bantay Abot Cave

- Patapat Viaduct

- Kabigan Waterfalls

- Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

- Kapurpurawan White Rock Formation

- Bangui Windmills

- Calle Crisologo [Vigan]

Budget (it's like I'm practically showing you my dirty list of expenses):

- Flight Manila-Laoag: Php 1550 (Cebu Pacific)

- Bus Manila-Laoag: Php 700

- Paoay 4x4/sandboarding: 7500/9 = Php 937.50

- Bus Laoag-Pagudpud: Php 80

- Bus Pagudpud-Vigan: Php 100

- Pagudpud tour (van): 5000/8 = Php 625.00

- Pagudpud accommodations: 3750*2 (2 rooms for 2 nights) /8 = Php 937.50

- Bus Vigan/Pagudpud to Manila: Php 800

- Pasalubongs will really cost you a lot haha.

Contacts:

- Agua Seda Beach Resort (Blue Lagoon accommodation)

- Iloc-Trk (Kuya Lee @ 0929-813-8352) [Ilocos Norte Tour]

- Paoay Lead (Glenn @ 0908-885-3669) [Sandboarding]

MORAL: The sun, the rocks, the windmills. The lighthouse, the sand, and the falls. The marvels of Ilocos Norte and the history of Ilocos Sur, this place is definitely an awesome mix of nature and man-made goodness at the edge of the country. You must be crazy not to visit this place.

I'm Listening

2011-07-27T14:34:00.002+08:00

Listening to the radio on a dreamy weather, with God's messenger singing, turns an unfortunate day to a positive one.

"Paano kapag hindi ko type yung gusto ni God para sa akin?"
"Puwede ba yun. God loves us too much, He knows the perfect one for us."

"It's not in His will that we keep on getting hurt. The waiting for it was long but when it came, it was at the right time."

"I don't want to just try and be out of the market. I surrender everything to God and He will make my love story."

They Found Love

2011-07-26T00:36:00.001+08:00

We're already nearing the end of July and most are thinking of how can they whip up August in the air. I haven't even blogged anything! This only means one thing: July has been as hectic and exciting as it can be.

Grandma being rushed into the ER, my aunt flying home from the US, Palawan, groupon site mishaps, project on steroids, and loads of pizza.

I'm not dead yet!

I found love, didn't even know I needed it
But I found love, never even crossed my mind
I found love, had a garden never weeded it
But I found love, took an apple just in time

I found love in the fall and it did not hurt at all
I found sunlight, flowers, soft summer showers
I can feel my heart touch my Adam's apple
I can feel the feather in my head
There is a lightness, politeness, fingers tingle, tootsies tap
'till dawn comes and finds me never in my bed

I found love, didn't even know I needed it
But I found love, never even crossed my mind

I found love in the spring and I did not lose a thing
I found love in the fall and it did not hurt at all
I found sunlight and flowers, soft summer showers.
I can feel my heart touch my Adam's apple
I can feel the feather in my head
There is a lightness, politeness, fingers tingle, tootsies tap
'till dawn comes and finds me never in my bed

This July, We're A Firework!

2011-07-06T12:09:00.001+08:00

July is my project's much-awaited grand performance. The team has been toiling on this for almost 9 months like a baby. Now it's time to birth it out into the world. Hmm, that was not a pleasant picture. Anyway, from the last time I have blogged, my movie and series watching time has been cut off and working on hyperdrive has been a norm. I'm not complaining. I made the effort before to catch-up with my life and this time, I need to slow it down for other important things, too. Yet I'm not all work as I managed to slip in Transformers 3 on IMAX 3D (SM's online reservation is as wonderful as you can think of) and my daily book-reading moments before sleeping have made me finish 2 books (The Mysterious Benedict Society and The Prisoner's Dilemma and Montmorency) and I'm currently internalizing this thick book of complete Sherlock Holmes' stories. Uh-huh. Not to mention I was able to do my 3rd 5K fun run last July 3 at MOA. Yes, it's still a charity run for Ideal Vision's foundation.

Who said I suck at work-life balance? I still owe this blog my Ilocandia Adventure post, as well as a fun run post (or should I wait for my August run?) and tomorrow, I'll be hopping on a plane to Puerto Princesa (Palawan). God bless my soul.

MORAL: Work hard, party harder!

The Roommate is Minka Kelly and Leighton Meester

2011-06-27T00:01:00.000+08:00

Warning: Photo alert.

So we'reon a roll! We have kick-ass pairs in the movie screen, coming from the previous Pretty Beautiful post. When twin sisters MinkaKelly and Gossip Girl Leighton Meester star in a movie, you want to expectyourself getting confused on who's who at times. And then you add The VampireDiaries stars Nina Dobrev and Katerina Graham (Bonnie) in the equation, you'lldefinitely get a chick flick on drugs, right?

Oh crap,sorry to disappoint you. The Roommate is not really a chick flick. It's apsycho-thriller and that's how it should be. Clingy psycho rommate (who lookslike you) alert! Dundunduuuuuun.

These are tv starsthrown into a Mongolian bowl of a film. Minka Kelly comes from Friday NightLights popularity while Leighton Meester is the Queen Bee of Gossip Girl. Thenwe have The Vampire Diaries kiddos namely Nina Dobrev and Katerina Graham oncameo. Well, the latter are reserved for another entry, once The Vampire Diaries airs its third season soon. Are there really loads of psychos prowling around? Scary world, it is!

Hello, Minka Kelly!

And twin sister, Leighton Meester!

Actually it would be a lot easier if we just have photos of them side-by-side, eh?

Leighton on the left, Minka on the right. Right!

Minka on the left, Leighton on the right. Right!

Okay, this is getting tiresome.

Yeah they look similar, let's get over it!!!

MORAL:Ask if your new roommate is on anti-psychotic drugs and if she's taking a pill a day or as prescribed by the doctor. Really it does help everyone move along. Drop thequestion or some hints from time to time, it could save you and your friends'lives. Trust Minka Kelly's character Sara Matthews on this, she learned it the hard way.

Camilla Belle plus Nicholas D'Agosto

2011-06-26T00:26:00.000+08:00

Let's hit two beautiful birds in one stone. My brother for some reason downloaded the movie From Prada to Nada and so I plugged it to watch in our television. Two familiar favorites showed up in our screen, the lovely and mouth-watering duo of Camilla Belle and Nicholas D'Agosto. Okay, they look kind of similar, they could pass of as siblings.

Camilla Belle was brought into stardom (or semi-stardom whatever) from When A Stranger Calls showed in the big screen. Then next would be the silent movie 10,000 BC and also from that awesome movie, Push. Yes she has striking co-stars in the last 2 movies mentioned and this time, she has Nicholas D'Agosto for From Prada to Nada. Lucky girl.

Yes we know you have lovely eyebrows.

You already!

Y SO PRETTY?!??!

Nicholas D'Agosto first caught my eye in the movie Rocket Science but you would probably recognize him from the tv series Heroes in season 2. Next would be from the movie Fired Up! which was a little bit annoying but hey, seeing him and his smile was totally worth it.

Y SO GORGEOUS?!

Dios mio!

Now let's all bask in the goodness of nature and how they made Nicholas and Camilla perfect by staring at their photos again.

MORAL: Blondes do not necessarily have all the fun.

Will Still Run for A Cause

2011-06-25T23:50:00.000+08:00

My personal choice of joining runs that are for a cause still holds true as a psychotic friend and I signed-up for 2 runs for July and August. The Ideal Vision Center's event Vision in Motion Fun Run on July 3 will benefit their Save Your Sight foundation providing free eye consultation, reading glasses, and other eye care services to poor Filipinos. Another would be on August 7, a company event that would benefit certain wards in Philippine General Hospital. See, there are no problems with the events, it is just that I haven't ran this June and that June 27-July 1 would be a very critical time for my project. Even though it's just for 5K, my July 3 event would see a running zombie - which was initially thought to be anatomically impossible but then Resident Evil and Dawn of the Dead happened. How about the August 7 event? It would be my first time running uphill with a 9-kilometer distance. I would definitely, definitely bring a skateboard or some roller skates when it comes to the downhill part. I remember mentioning my endurance sucks so well like a vacuum cleaner, right? Wish me the best in all the world just like it's my birthday.

MORAL: Sometimes it takes a demented friend to push you out of your comfort zone. You'll never know how far you could go until you try.

Ours is the Earth: If

2011-06-24T23:08:00.001+08:00

Rudyard Kipling

If you can keep your head when all about you

Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;

If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,

But make allowance for their doubting too;

If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,

Or, being lied about, don't deal in lies,

Or, being hated, don't give way to hating,

And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise;

If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;

If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim;

If you can meet with triumph and disaster

And treat those two imposters just the same;

If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken

Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,

Or watch the things you gave your life to broken,

And stoop and build 'em up with wornout tools;

If you can make one heap of all your winnings

And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,

And lose, and start again at your beginnings

And never breath a word about your loss;

If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew

To serve your turn long after they are gone,

And so hold on when there is nothing in you

Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on";

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,

Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch;

If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;

If all men count with you, but none too much;

If you can fill the unforgiving minute

With sixty seconds' worth of distance run -

Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,

And - which is more - you'll be a Man my son!

Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club - Nasugbu, Batangas

2011-06-22T14:00:00.003+08:00

Drafted last April 10, 2011 and I know it's June already. No judging! :p
Yes, there are a lot of photos here.

The wonderful pools of the Country Club, with the view
of the still unfinished column of buildings.

See the contrast of the finished buildings and those still under construction.

Hamilo Coast.

Hamilo Coast goodness of Pico de Loro.

Top-view from the Beach Club deck.

Situated along Hamilo Coast at Nasugbu, Batangas, Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club is an exclusive resort developed by SMDC (yeah, "the good guys"). Thirty minutes farther from Punta Fuego and Tali Beach, it would seem like either you're in the wrong place or this place is at the other side of the world. Definitely a swimming beach and do not have yourself fooled if it's the same with the famous mountain of Pico de Loro. They are NOT the same, I wonder where SMDC got the name.

Overlooking the cove. This is where they bring potential buyers.

Pristine waters.

In any case, to be able to get inside you must either be a member or a guest of a member. I don't get it, honestly. Pay so much for a beach/country club? Just travel to all of the breathtaking beaches around the country if you have that much money to buy stocks in a beach club! Opinions aside, Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club has awesome residential buildings, a man-made lagoon with a boat ride, and of course, the shuttle service (just like in Anvaya Cove, Punta Fuego, etc.) which is just a call away. Amenities are complete for the Country Club, they have lots of courts (badminton, tennis, basketball), gym equipments, a library, and a kick-ass pool.

Country Club at night. :)

In all honesty, Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club is really a very radiant pleasing place having a modern view/feel to it and it is new. Being new is a factor because (I believe that) SMDC has a tendency to overdevelop (or overpopulate) their sites and I am not quite sure of the future beauty of the beach club if they finish the other side of the residential buildings - when we went there, only the other side of the row of buildings were done. We experienced Pico de Loro during April, definitely peak season so throngs of people are to be expected but the number that welcomed us considering that it prides itself as an exclusive resort and only half of the place has been developed, I just hope the cove will be as beautiful in the future as it is enthralling at present.

There are available water sports equipment.

The Beach Club has one swimming pool.

MORAL: When you're out there, bask in the glory of the sun. Sand, sun, and the seawater. The world is for your taking.

Unit where we stayed.

Waterproof tag.

2011-06-21T23:19:00.000+08:00

Heavy is the mind that can't be told when it's time to let it go.
Heavy is the heart filled so full with sorrow.

Worry can't help a single thing but when we're out of our heads at least we're out in the open.
The warning signs of a troubled mind, it's all the things we can't see and can't hide.

And all we ever want is to be loved whether sun or stars above.
All our trouble all our toil is towards no greater earthly goal.

Such a beautiful song, The Submarine's"Swimming Pool" is. And all we ever wanted is to be loved. Those last 2 lines really hurt in the gut.

Bandwagon

2011-06-13T12:05:00.000+08:00

If you have an online social life (read: Internet), you'll probably be swamped with all the latest news and updates about the NBA and its recently crowned champions, the Dallas Mavericks. A lot are LeBron haters, Lakers-to-Mavs fans, same with the angry Clevelanders hence Cavs4Mavs, and Give-the-Kidd-A-Ring movement supporters. It's basketball, it's sports, man. A lot are tweeting (in case you live under a rock, it's an action done in Twitter) about "bandwagon fans" and how they just became "solid fans" during the Finals (I can feel the "where were you when they were still struggling?" comments). Hello. Bandwagon fans. They're like politicians, always on the side of those winning (or almost winning).

Me? I'm a solid Kobe fan. So when the Mavericks swept away the Lakers like they were dirt, I'll root for the team that demolished me. LeChon can go eat his candy ring.

You might be a loyal fan who stays up late or wakes up real early for the game, but everyone else just watches the 4th quarter (or the final game in a tennis Grand Slam). If you're not a bandwagon fan as you say/claim (whether implicitly or not), you know that. And you probably won't gripe. ;)

MORAL: Live with it.

Mermaids of the Caribbean: On Familiar Tides

2011-06-03T01:43:00.001+08:00

Geez, this was actually drafted last May 24, 2011 and as of press time, the last movie I have watched is ~~Kung Fu Panda 2~~ X-Men: First Class. I'll remember to press the "Publish" button next time.

Work-Life Balance Status Update: 80% [Slightly Off-Track]

Despite the gargantuan amount of work I need to get over with, I've been catching-up with my life recently. Funny that it actually needs effort to be executed. Oh yes, I am improving! I have purchased books (have already finished the first be proud, momma) and a CD (Taken by Cars!) recently. Almost done with my series! Although I still got a lot of that in my plate, not to mention the number of movies I missed over the last few months, one by one I've been covering those holes left open. A great improvement though is that I've been watching movies in the big screen now. Guess who's back to her old tricks! Since I've been punishing and whipping myself dry for missing Thor (and Natalie Portman), I need to get back on the "blockbuster season" and hopefully strike a number of movies from the list. The latest one I have watched as of presstime (or blogtime whatever) is Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides. That's a freaking long title. No Keira Knightley nor Orlando Bloom. Just Johnny Depp and Penelope Cruz dabbing each other with eye make-up.

No, that's not Amanda Seyfried. That's Gemma Ward, the queen of the mermaids!

The show-stealer were definitely the mermaids. For me the movie was a bit slow-paced (which is supposedly uncommon for Pirates of the Caribbean) but the effects are really worthy of Hollywood. The tails of the mermaids are visually stunning, flowing so gracefully in the water. Their fangs and fury definitely kept me awake. For a moment there, whale hunting was on my mind. Repeat with me: Fish are friends not food. Mermaids are ugh, friends....not food, too? Actually they're the ones who get the jolly sailor boat.

MORAL: The fountain of youth is all but a dream. Only God can grant eternal life. Kudos to the Spaniards.

Beauty in the Eye of the Lens

2011-06-02T00:48:00.000+08:00

Drafted May 27, 2011 but hey.

So what's new? Aside from I'm not using the default font? The weather has been really wet and bipolar lately. Tropical monsoon sends scattered rainfall and really moody clouds around the metro. Do not be fooled by the weather you experience the moment you step out of your house (hot and sunny? Wait till you get to the next block!), it will change in a bat of an extended eyelash with mascara. Local nonsense weather-hopeful-related report brought to you by Donya Anita, your friendly neighborhood manghuhula. For booking in parties or maybe one-on-one private reading of your fortune, contact blogger.

I've been fond of the color red maybe because I was born during the celebration time of Valentine's Day and it's the only color around. So maybe I became attached to it. Although the real story here is how my highschool buddy Pentax Optio couldn't take the strong waves of San Juan, La Union. Sure thing the waves were no match but the sand got to him. My poor baby's LCD drowned. Aside from my camera I was distraught because I also lost my waterproof pouch. A friend misplaced it somewhere we cannot determine, maybe the sand swallowed it or some hermit crab stole it. San Juan, La Union is a great surf spot and to add, a giant waterproof-killer-machine.

Pentax on the left, Olympus on the right!

Hello new water buddy! I was supposed to buy a Canon D10 but seems like it would take an eternity and a half for the supplies to be replenished. Hopefully this red rock is solid enough to take on my lifestyle but it's not like I throw cameras around as a hobby. Although I haven't tested its prowess underwater, a few test shots using the filters are spelling f-u-n.

Sketching Forever 21!

MORAL: We have different needs and wants, but this time let's keep it simple. It is point and shoot after all. If you're really going to use it, go ahead just don't go splurging your food money on things that can be broken easily. Regret is for the weak and we ain't weak, baby. We ain't weak. (Just a little bit extravagant.)

Another filter, with vignette this time!
That's Darth Vabear. Such a cutie (from Korea!). :D

Mamma Mia Kirshner!

2011-06-01T01:28:00.001+08:00

Miaaaaaaa. Lalala.

Hello, June! Welcome to the 2nd half of the year! Not to mention it's my first year signing up into the corporate bandwagon. Anyway, enough of that one.

The reason I got into the whole The Vampire Diaries series is because of this actress. There were only 2 episodes into the season when I started watching it. The weekly anticipation for a new episode was brutal, especially if you're actually waiting for a character to show up. So when I was able to read that Mia Kirshner is going to be part of the series, I was glued or package taped to the computer and the television. However, the series was actually really good enough and I got hooked, lined, and sinkered into the show.

Mia Kirshner's look penetrates into your soul.

I'm sorry that all my favorite characters get written off, and I'm still keeping an unfortunate hot streak on that. She might be a crazy (more like a lunatic) prima donna when she played Jenny Schecter or still a crazy vampire as Isobel Fleming, hey, she made me a fan. She's really good playing moonstruck characters. Maybe crazy isn't bad after. Crazy beautiful.

Yep that's a vampire girl over there.

MORAL: Beauty is in the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth of the beholder. Thank you, sweet Jesus for people like Mia Kirshner.

She kinda looks like someone here. Hmm.

2011-05-31T12:44:00.000+08:00

And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you, because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.

Roald Dahl

Light Constellations

2011-05-26T01:09:00.000+08:00

Definitely, definitely catching-up with life. After all the love from Tuesday (see post before this), Wednesday may be far from its level but it's good enough.

Finishing the minimum required 8 visits from the gym, I don't know if people from Gold's Gym were on a high because for the 2nd time, their staff has uttered the words, "Ang sipag ni Ma'am ah." to me. Well, it was the first month that I didn't do "pretend gym" because I actually ran and did some weights, bwahaha. Still not a total workout as I only use their treadmill most of the time but hey, I'm on a good start. Then got complimented with "Good form!" from one of the trainers there whom I asked to remove the free weights from the row-like-pull-thing. Obviously, I was a scholar on gym equipments in my past life. Maybe people in the gym were given their mid-year bonus a month early so they're in a good mood.

Totally unrelated from the paragraph above, this post's title is "Constellations", which is actually a song from Barbie Almalbis which was playing when I started this entry, and "Lights" is another song from her album which was playing while I was typing the last paragraphs. It would come in handy as I finished the movie "I Am Number Four" a couple of minutes ago. I had a realization. I have a fascination with lights.

Yes Alex Pettyfer, light is amazing, too.

There are already 200 million reviews on the movie and I don't want to add anything more. It's a good no brainer film, great effects for this blondie movie, can't wait if there's a sequel. Would definitely watch it. Alex Pettyfer (already mentioned in my Pretty Beautiful series!), Teresa Palmer, and Dianna Agron are the blonde stars in this film.

It's like God is calling us with these lights. Palm lights? Handlights?
Obviously not headlights, right?

Dianna Agron has a Diana in the movie. That's funny if you like cameras with light leaks (as mentioned in the movie). Here we go again with "lights" and it's not intentional! They're just really interconnected.

Who could resist such a pretty still from this movie?!?!
Number Four and Six, respectively. Awesome and madungis.

MORAL: How can a semi-photophobic fall in love with lights? Actually I don't think I'm photophobic as that is extreme, it's just that my eyes are sensitive and those grey spots around are not related (I hope so). Neither am I a heliophobe but I just can't tolerate lights, them glaring on me. Yet that won't stop anyone from pushing and dropping their jaws from lovely lights. As they say, "Impossible is just an opinion." And it's an agreed truth, that we pretty much want what we don't have.

Here we are, under a billion stars. The constellations. The light from which traveled a million years to shine down on us.

Keep Shining

2011-05-25T13:11:00.001+08:00

Jesus you rock 'n roll.

On a rainy Tuesday when tropical storm Chedeng is scaring Filipinos into paranoia and "Ondoy 2" my officemate asked me if we're pushing through with watching Barbie at Katipunan. It wasn't a crucial day for me as in a project phase, this is my calm before the storm. One Grey's Anatomy episode, a burned mixtape, and a running magazine after, my ride called already. We're pushing through with it because she has nothing else better to do anyway and the rain stopped. Hallelujah!

Thanks, Chin! It was a great night. No waiting time, met our college people (yours and mine from different schools), and set list was amazing. Not to mention you finally noticed that Barbie is not tall and has frizzy, dry hair. :|

First dibs on the new album! Here's the music video as well but most of all, I got my fresh CD signed (thanks to Chin for being a supportive fangirl hahahaha) and finally asked my long-overdue question to Barbie: Where does she get her jacket and shoes? I told Barbie I just come to her shows to check her jackets and shoes. The girl had no idea as her former stylist were just giving her stuff then checked the one she's wearing, "Topshop ata?" She lifted her leg to check the sole of her shoes, "Uhmm... Aldo?" All the while I was thinking, "Teh, hindi ka sure kung may brand na Aldo?!?" Mahalia jackson the shoes and jacket. You already!

Still the best female guitarist around, Barbie Almalbis can still rock the world. Her music video was made with real photographs. *picks up jaw from the floor*

Jesus you are a superstar.

I am a natural anti-fangirl. I was just with a natural fangirl. And it was worth it.

MORAL: NO doesn't get you anywhere. You may prevent a possible lamentable event, but the "what if" question would haunt you forever.

Run Like the Wind

2011-05-18T00:12:00.001+08:00

If you know me or not know me (whatever), I am not into fads. I still try to believe that I have some non-conformist hormones (if there's such a thing) inside of me. So when running became the "in" thing, meaning everyone's into it, I just laugh although not sinisterly at those into running, complete with splurging on expensive gadgets and all. Well I don't judge them, it's just that I'm waiting people out to get tired of it. However, I think running's going to be here for a while. You just invest on running shoes (which you can use even if you're not going to run, duh) and off you go. A lot of places especially the commercial centers welcome runners and walkers alike. You don't need other equipments, just run and sweat like a pig.

Then the boom of fun runs came, these events sprouting like pimples on a kid's oily face. There are fun runs at The Fort almost every weekend, as well as in other places. It took a while before I decided to join my first fun run. Ever since I got into the company's fitness program (meaning my gym fee is waived), I have been using the treadmill for some time. Carbo Girl into Cardio. Back when I was still in school, I am confident to say that I can sprint like a terrier on the loose. See illustration.

A Jack Russell Terrier at the meadow. Aww.

So yes, I can sprint like a Jackie but I believe my endurance is like a running mollusk. And I told myself that I will only join running events that have a cause. Only those with "for the benefit of [...]" and mind you, the 2 events I have joined are for a cause. First event was December 12 last year, Eco Run 2010 at Fort Bonifacio. My friend and I joined and got lost around the camp. Hahaha. At one point we were following the 10K route (while we're running 5K hahaha) and we're not the only ones who ran extra meters. Bad marshalls, tsk. First times are like crap. Next run I had was by chance. It was destiny. My officemate (the one who adopted me at my Holy Week 101 feat) and I were gym-hopping for attendance (we need to complete at least 8 visits) when we saw the ad inside Gold's Gym at Intercontinental Hotel. Skyathon Beach Run 2011. Oh yeah boy, the event (April 30) is smack in the middle of our Boracay trip! This is destiny. There were a lot of freebies in the event. The lootbag (contains a shirt, magazine, spray, totebag, slippers, etc.), breakfast, sweet and decent singlet, personalized medal, not to mention a timing device all for the registration fee of Php 700 were definitely not bad! My 2nd run was memorable because we ran barefooted and drunk. Actually, it was just my officemate who was drunk (not me!) but we partied and consumed alcohol that Friday night like it was the end of the world. So much fun for a Saturday morning run! End of story: we were 13-15minutes late. It was a very noteworthy event I can assure you.

So we have ran for the environment (tree planting to be exact) and for the beach (Skyathon proceeds are for the beach clean-up). What's next?

MORAL: Run. Just run, don't think. You start running the moment you stop thinking. If you're a non-conformist like me, it's still okay to tie your running shoes and speed away. Do it for your health, for your heart, for your lungs, for the endorphins. The runner's high? It won't disappoint you.

Naya Rivera - Songbird

2011-05-17T00:11:00.003+08:00

For you, there'll be no more crying. For you, the sun will be shining.
And I feel that when I'm with you, it's alright, I know it's right.

To you, I'll give the world. To you, I'll never be cold.
'Cause I feel that when I'm with you, it's alright, I know it's right.

And the songbirds are singing like they know the score. And I love you, I love you, I love you, like never before.

And I wish you all the love in the world, but most of all, I wish it from myself.

Santana and Brittany. Awwww.

Holy Week 101

2011-05-16T19:10:00.002+08:00

Growing up as a Born-Again Christian in a not so religious family, I'm not very much exposed to the annual celebration and observance of the Holy Week. I prefer how Roman Catholics do it especially in the provinces. People in Manila are just about the thrill of driving around with empty streets.

So when an offer to join an officemate coming home to Pampanga for the Holy Week came up like a beanstalk (from Jack and the Beanstalk), I quickly jumped the gun. It was just after I accepted that I realized how possibly dumb that was, considering I will be a visitor/spectator/observer/pet for a couple of days, as I might be a nuisance in their festivities (hello do I hear reunions?).

I just had a dilemma at that time. It's because the saints, Virgin Mary, and their traditions are so revered, that if my hosts ask me if I want to try it (e.g. kissing the cross), would I? Two points: A.) If I try it for the sake of trying, would that be (a little) disrespectful as I'm just trying something that they consider special? It's just like an atheist wearing a cross because it's a nice accessory. And I abhor this idea. B.) If I say No, would I be channeling Discovery Channel or National Geographic and act as a pure observer of the events unfolding right in front of my pupils?

My first Visita Iglesia after dark was spellbounding! Although it was like I was the odd-man out because I was with my host's relatives, visiting 7 churches around (Bulaon) San Fernando and Bacolor was very memorable. I've never had too much gooseflesh at that time from one church to another. I found it heartwarming that people still acknowledge the importance of the Lenten Season.

One MAJOR concern I had was about cameras. Devotees and visitors pray and observe silence inside the churches. If I had epilepsy, I would have a lot of attacks or episodes inside! The flash from the cameras are blinding, not to mention distracting! Holy Lord, please abolish flash photography inside! Oh, make it 2 major concerns (one plus one is two, right?). This would be those I found sacrilegious. Making suggestive poses in front of the statues of the saints and giggling? Seriously?

San Guillermo. Famous for that series with the character "Santino."

MORAL: A bus ride to Pampanga and lots of car and wheeler (aka pedicab) rides after, Holy Week 101 in Pampanga was an enthralling experience. Not to mention I need to be acquainted on how to speak Kapampangan - my dad is as fluent like how a fish swims (what a great comparison!). :|

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

Inside San Guillermo's museum.

Miss Israel on Wheels

2011-05-10T16:21:00.003+08:00

After watching Fast Five in this blockbuster season, it's no wonder that Gal Gadot is going to be creating some buzz...again.

The Israeli actress, model, and former Miss Israel (2004) has been seen in the movies Fast & Furious (she was toooooo skinny here) and Fast Five, as well as a cameo with Tom Cruise in Knight and Day. If you search her movie list it was mentioned she had a small role in the movie Date Night (which I have a copy since time immemorial) but since I haven't watched the movie, I won't mention it. Nope, even if I typed about it here, I still don't consider mentioning it. :|

Ok, this is the wind effect.

I think I have a thing for Israelis. Yes, Natalie Portman is Israeli as well. Now bask in the glory of Israel! Jesus really loves that place. Either I'm quite sleepy already or my eyes are tired from the front-row seats we had in the movie house (we didn't have any choice unless we take the last full show), I think there's a semblance between Natalie and Gal.

Tough chick in the movie? Plus points. :)

Moral: Israel, you're really fast and furious. You still got your Israeli Army going on. Life is beautiful and so are we. Oh yeah.

This one's a still from Fast Five. It's a nice movie, don't mind the story.

Birdy - Skinny Love

2011-05-07T23:28:00.006+08:00

And I told you to be patient
And I told you to be fine
And I told you to be balanced
And I told you to be kind
And now all your love is wasted
And then who the hell was I?
And I'm breaking all the britches
And at the end of all your lines

Who will love you?
Who will fight?
Who will fall far behind?

[side: Since Birdy's still young at the age of 14, she still has her braces on and we can see it in the video and it's not really a big deal so don't mind this sentence, haha. I love her version of Bon Iver's song here, such a sad song that is nice to be played over and over again.]

May, How About You?

2011-05-05T12:11:00.001+08:00

And I thought I'm dead, too.

April has been really kind to me, allowing me a lot of free time to blog, post photos, catch-up on my reading, watch the latest and current movies and TV series out there. Not to mention a century-full of exercise hours, so I can run around and swim until my lungs collapse.

What this blog has been missing:
- concerts of Taylor Swift and The Script (no, they didn't perform together)
- Holy Week 2011 (I was semi-adopted and fed like a suckling pig for a few days for the Holy Week)
- Pico de Loro and Boracay beach trips (including my first beach run)

Those are actually a lot already. As a pioneer of "you can have all the time in the world," I'm at the abyss as I'm eating all of my "there's no such thing as 'too busy' for something" hoopla. As I have to admit, I'm actually busy and stressed with this. When my hormones or bipolar self tries to get the best of me, my current work/tasks would shield those thoughts or possible self-inflicted drama. A distraction, maybe, but it's definitely not a good one.

I will find the time for myself this May. I NEED to.

MORAL: Find time for everything. If you can't find time, then make one.

Zac Attack!

2011-03-28T23:01:00.000+08:00

My dad dropped his heart and balls. I think I pressed on the gas too much. He doesn't usually fasten his seatbelt but this time he did plus held on the handle. He thought we were about to slam to the car signalling to the left (I was hoping we won't and I thank God we didn't). Well, me driving to McKinley Hill from our place in 30minutes is good enough. He told me to slow down, he told me to look right before swerving, to change lanes one at a time, to sound the horn, and a whole lot of things. Meanwhile, I listened to the radio to keep myself calm. I heard a retort about the "bigger and taller Charice (Pempengco)" and I snorted. My dad told me to focus on the road and not laugh ( @.@). Hey, I was still watching out for the tiyanaks or those pesky kids who just appear out of nowhere and hug your vehicle.

MORAL: Slow down, step on the brake pedal, and honk your horn. Check your side mirrors, they're there for a reason. No, dingbat, they're not just props!

Subic - Perfect Daytrip

2011-03-24T21:25:00.003+08:00

February 26, 2011

Since a dear high school friend went back to the Philippines for a vacation and wedding, we desperately needed to have an out-of-town trip. It was Puerto Galera (weekend) vs Tagaytay (daytrip) vs Subic (daytrip). Guess which one won? We only had 2 places in our itinerary, since we asked Gladdylyn (the Canadian superstar) what she wants, we set our foot at Camayan and Tree Top Adventure.

Camayan Beach Resort, Subic, Zambales

Going to Subic is an arduous task if you do not have private transportation. We rented a van to accommodate everyone, passed through SCTEx (the road that never ends) and arrived in Subic shortly. Camayan Beach Resort is managed by the same people who oversee Ocean Adventure. Entrance fee is PHP 300. I think it's expensive but upon seeing the place, it's a fair price.

Definitely a swimming beach, there are huge stones you can easily avoid stepping on, the water is clear (yay), and the sand although not so fine, is white. One haunting thing about Camayan Beach Resort is their shower place. It's open and the shower is eco-friendly but not efficient as you only have 5 seconds (yes we counted) of running water before you need to press it again. Good luck rinsing seawater off your skin and hair! There are cottages available for rent at PHP 1,000 a pop and different activities available such as kayaking and snorkelling.

Swimming towards here is far, I tell you. My friend and I made that mistake and I thank God I have pride and beautiful lungs to swim back alive. Haha.

Camayan Beach Resort is a good escape when you're touring Subic or you want a decent place to relax and enjoy the sand and sun.

Tree Top Adventure, Subic, Zambales

Ha! This place is relatively near Camayan Beach Resort. Definitely the place to be if you want some excitement in your boring safe life or maybe just try something new because you consider your computer as your best friend. There is no entrance fee so you can watch your friends pee in their pants from stress or fear, or laugh your head off listening to the Tree Top Adventure crew. We were just interested in the 3 awesome-artery-popping attractions they got. Namely the Silver Surfer, Superman, and the Tree Drop.

Some people just can't do jumpshots. Haha.

The Silver Surfer is a good start because it gives you a great view of your....friend. Okay that was bull. For PHP 250 you will be flung towards the next tree while you watch your friend scream in agony. For best results, don't hold onto the handle. The wind and the height are stupendous.

Next was the Superman. You have to climb at the side then pray that the ropes are really tight and secured. You signed a waiver form in the first place so you really just can't sue them for lots of money in case you fall down, considering a miracle happened and you're still alive. This attraction's worth PHP 200 and you don't have to push yourself up to be able to enjoy it. Just relax and let the colors of the wind pull you in.

This is the attraction which garners the most squeals, laughter, and drama. The crew here are the funniest, they will make you feel comfortable then once you think you're okay, they'll drop you off like a hot potato from 60 feet. Drop it like it's hot. For PHP 150, scream (or like me, No Reaction Girl for the Day) your wits off!

Tree Drop! Gotta love 'em trees.

The Script - Nothing

2011-03-23T12:54:00.001+08:00

Oh I wanted words but all I heard was nothing.

Oh sometimes love's intoxicating.
Oh you're coming down your hands are shaking, when you realize there's no one waiting.

I know that I'm drunk but I'll say the words, and she'll listen this time even though they're slurred. So I dialed her number and confessed to her, I'm still in love but all I heard was nothing.

She said nothing.
Oh I got nothing.
I wanted words but all I heard was nothing.

Month For Rent

2011-03-22T23:08:00.003+08:00

I was looking for that person, who would be peanut when I'm butter. The Meredith Grey to me being Cristina Yang. The yin to the yang. The left when I'm right. Just that person who would be awesome for you to sit next to. That might have sounded cheesy or real awful, but the casual search never stopped. I thought I found that person. Well yeah, I thought I found that person and stayed with that person for a couple of months. Yet after the lockdown period, it was time to wake-up and realize that I never really found my person.

February has been a roller coaster ride for me complete with the double cyclone loops and 360-degree turns with my gut spilling out. Spending my last birthday (because I will be forever 21) with some of the coolest people ever, going to an ER because of a teammate's gas problem (aka tummy ache), betting on the roulette and slot machines, being on a road trip (and being awake at the same time) for 2 days, driving in traffic and beating the red light, swimming till my lungs hurt, and relationships culminating to changes overnight.

Things would inevitably pass but for me memories would always linger. I may not know what lies ahead but I'm pretty sure I'll take it head-on with my adventurous heart in hand.

February, you are an eccentric SoaB, you might have been both good and bad, but I tell you this: You have been crazy bad-ass. Thanks, February 2011.

MORAL: Nothing we have is truly ours.

21 Lines from Bob Ong

2011-03-21T21:00:00.001+08:00

No "moral" section this time as this is... an entry-full of life lessons. :)

1. “Kung hindi mo mahal ang isang tao, wag ka nang magpakita ng motibo para mahalin ka niya.”

2. “Huwag mong bitawan ang bagay na hindi mo kayang makitang hawak ng iba.”

3. “Huwag mong hawakan kung alam mong bibitawan mo lang.”

4. “Huwag na huwag kang hahawak kapag alam mong may hawak ka na.”

5. “Parang elevator lang yan eh, bakit mo pagsisiksikan ung sarili mo kung walang pwesto para sayo. Eh meron naman hagdan, ayaw mo lang pansinin.”

6. “Kung maghihintay ka nang lalandi sayo, walang mangyayari sa buhay mo.. Dapat lumandi ka din.”

7. “Pag may mahal ka at ayaw sayo, hayaan mo. malay mo sa mga susunod na araw ayaw mo na din sa kanya, naunahan ka lang.”

8. “Hiwalayan na kung di ka na masaya. Walang gamot sa tanga kundi pagkukusa.”

9. “Pag hindi ka mahal ng mahal mo wag ka magreklamo. Kasi may mga tao rin na hindi mo mahal pero mahal ka.. Kaya quits lang.”

10. “Kung dalawa ang mahal mo, piliin mo ung pangalawa. Kasi hindi ka naman magmamahal ng iba kung mahal mo talaga ung una.”

11. “Hindi porke’t madalas mong ka-chat, kausap sa telepono, kasama sa mga lakad o ka-text ng wantusawa eh may gusto sayo at magkakatuluyan kayo. Meron lang talagang mga taong sadyang friendly, sweet, flirt, malandi, pa-fall o paasa.”

12. “Huwag magmadali sa babae o lalaki. Tatlo, lima, sampung taon, mag-iiba ang pamantayan mo at maiisip mong hindi pala tamang pumili ng kapareha dahil lang maganda o nakakalibog ito. Totoong mas mahalaga ang kalooban ng tao higit sa anuman. Sa paglipas ng panahon, maging ang mga crush ng bayan ay nagmumukha ring pandesal. Maniwala ka."

13. “Minsan kahit ikaw ang nakaschedule, kailangan mo pa rin maghintay, kasi hindi ikaw ang priority.”

14. “Mahirap pumapel sa buhay ng tao. Lalo na kung hindi ikaw ung bida sa script na pinili niya.”

15. “Alam mo ba kung gaano kalayo ang pagitan ng dalawang tao pag nagtalikuran na sila? Kailangan mong libutin ang buong mundo para lang makaharap ulit ang taong tinalikuran mo.”

16. “Mas mabuting mabigo sa paggawa ng isang bagay kesa magtagumpay sa paggawa ng wala.”

17. “Hindi lahat ng kaya mong intindihin ay katotohanan, at hindi lahat ng hindi mo kayang intindihin ay kasinungalingan.”

18. “Kung nagmahal ka ng taong di dapat at nasaktan ka, huwag mong sisihin ang puso mo. Tumitibok lang yan para mag-supply ng dugo sa katawan mo. Ngayon, kung magaling ka sa anatomy at ang sisisihin mo naman ay ang hypothalamus mo na kumokontrol ng emotions mo, mali ka pa rin! Bakit? Utang na loob! Wag mong isisi sa body organs mo ang mga sama ng loob mo sa buhay! Tandaan mo: magiging masaya ka lang kung matututo kang tanggapin na hindi ang puso, utak, atay o bituka mo ang may kasalanan sa lahat ng nangyari sayo, kundi IKAW mismo!”

19. “Pakawalan mo ung mga bagay na nakakasakit sayo kahit na pinasasaya ka nito. Wag mong hintayin ang araw na sakit na lang ang nararamdaman mo at iniwan ka na ng kasiyahan mo.”

20. “Gamitin ang puso para alagaan ang mga taong malalapit sayo. Gamitin ang utak para alagaan ang sarili mo.”

21. “Ang pag-ibig parang imburnal…nakakatakot mahulog…at kapag nahulog ka, it’s either by accident or talagang tanga ka."

Last February

2011-03-20T00:50:00.001+08:00

NEWSFLASH: I am still alive!!!!

Yep! I have been through a lot last month, well, February has been pretty much on hypermode for me. Project required my full-attention, some drama, imaginary issues, and new experience.

I got my first gift of the month which is free coffee. Okay. Next thing is the first audit of our project (yup I have to include this), actually it's my first audit ever. Then the fantastic ocular weekend. Officemates and friends went to Tagaytay and Laguna over the weekend to look for possible venues for our offsite-teambuilding event in the office. So I welcomed my birthday inside a van while we're cruising through South Luzon Expressway (SLEX). Friends got me flowers (thanks to the seven people who were with me) and then dropped me to Resorts World for my first actual casino experience with my family. Good times! Got home, drank with my dad, and talked to my brother while we were watching Nikita and The Vampire Diaries. Forgot I still need to go to Laguna the next day. Sleep is for the weak as after searching for Neverland in Laguna, we went to Tagaytay for another round of birthday love. Got cake and flowers again. So much love. Haha. The weekday I got a song and an ice cream cake. Good times, yep. Good decision coming to the office and not spending it at home. You know how much I love Valentine's Day.

Bottomline: Welcomed and said goodbye to my birthday inside a van going to and from Tagaytay.

Happy damn 21st birthday to myself. It's going to be my last one.
Forever 21. :)

MORAL: Good times are not that difficult to come by. Look for the best things in life, well, you'll look for it sooner and later.

My Last Birthday

2011-03-19T23:17:00.000+08:00

February. My birth month. Well, it's the birth month of a quarter of the population but that's not the issue here. Earlier in the year I was so excited and looking forward to my 12 Days of February series. It's just something that I thought of to make sure that there's always something to look forward to the days heading to my birthday. Selfish, much? Yeah.

On the last day of January, I knew the 12 Days of February is impossible and so we're ditching the whole idea of 12 Days of February because I'm going to be stuck in front of a rectangular device so instead, it's going to be spread out the entire month. We're dead, are we? But we believe we can pull this off.

Heaven, conspire with me!

MORAL: Well, I guess for me, absence makes the heart grow numb(er). Not fonder but at the end of the day, you get used to someone not being there.

Just Two Articles

2011-01-31T02:12:00.000+08:00

Drafted last January 14, 2011. I don't know why I don't post/finish things anymore.

I stumbled upon two articles today, well it's 3:28am and after finishing work, I can reward myself some reading (book-reading is on hiatus), even though I must be sleeping at this time unless I want to experience my ultimate eye/headache again.

1. Tech Detox
For the Lenten Season, what are you going to give-up? Meat, social networking, Internet, coffee, chocolates, and shopping have topped my friends' list. How about technological fasting?

I've never really been fond of listening to an mp3 player when I'm with someone, nor texting when there are people around (although lately I've been doing this a lot). For me it shows that you're not interested to talk, not trying to talk, or even receive any interaction from the people or person you are with. Texting could mean that "my cellphone is far more entertaining than your company" unless you really want to give that vibes to others.

10 Signs Your Devices Are Hurting Your Relationships:
1. You can't get through a meal without emailing, texting or talking on the phone.
2. You look at more than one screen at a time, checking email while watching television, for example.
3. You regularly email or text, other than for something urgent, while your partner or another family member is with you.
4. You sleep with your phone near you, and you check your email or texts while in bed.
5. You log onto your computer while in bed.
6. You have had an argument with a loved one about your use of technology.
7. You text or email while driving.
8. You no longer go outside for fun.
9. You never turn off your phone.
10. When you spend time with your family -- a meal, a drive, hanging out -- each person is looking at a different screen.

The article says that technology is a distraction from family - and hard to resist because it's portable and provides instant gratification. It's also an easy escape if we're having trouble in a relationship.

I just don't get detox if you have plans on going back again. It could be a start for others. For a change.

2. Why Chinese Mothers are Superior

This article is perfect for those who think that their parents are pushing them to the ends of the pirate's plank. Don't jump-in to the sea just yet. I don't have a Chinese mother so don't suggest that I posted the article because I am Chinese in whatever way you could think of.

MORAL: No matter how busy you may think you are, you must find time for reading, or surrender yourself to your self-chosen ignorance.

2011-01-16T23:03:00.000+08:00

Who are we to be emotional?
Who are we to play with hearts and throw away it all?

Who are you to make me feel so good?
Who am I to choose the boy that everyone adores?

Oh, I don't see a reason why we can't just be apart.
We're falling on each other like we're always in the dark.

I'm Not Over Analysis

2011-01-15T01:12:00.000+08:00

January 2011 comment: I can't remember what my emo-issue was last 2009 but I already have someone in mind as to who this person is. Thing is I can't pinpoint what happened between those times. Hmm...

Drafted Nov 27, 2009 at 1:12am

Thesis statement:

Having read the previous post which was written last October but was just published November something, I seriously need to have myself checked.

Click. Clock. Click. Clock.

Dude, I'm pretty much hoping that you have heard of the word click? You've heard of it, "We just don't...click." It's like chemistry.

There are people whom you want to be with, those whom you want to spend time with, even if you don't have a lot of things to tell them.

If I'm destined to be doing reflections at 2am or 1am (as long as it's after midnight), I'm kind of not wanting it. I'm not an inborn emo kid, those who enjoy feeling bad, alone, or whatever issues they have inside. I'm having issues because I have this innate thing of over analyzing stuff. You say this or that, I can psycho-analyze it. Give me something, show me anything, this brain processor of mine will emit word vomits as a result of (over-)analysis.

MORAL: Look up.

Waterworks

2011-01-14T00:00:00.000+08:00

Drafted last July 17, 2010.

Do you believe in luck? As a Christian, I have been discouraged to believe in luck. It's because God has a plan for us and things happen for a reason. We just don't go prancing around hoping that because a black cat crossed our path earlier, the huge coconut from that tree will not drop on our head.

Yet for whatever reason, I'm one unlucky fellow. I mentioned a few things I don't like, the world conspires for me to receive them. When I break in and try to find comfort to what they first gave me, the universe tempts me with another one. Just when I'm all hyped up. Where's the luck-issue there? I never get the fulfillment part.

I miss the feeling of security. Of the time I can say "Yes, this is it!" My Eureka moment.

Where are all of these things coming from? I get to meet cool people I know and feel I could get along with really well. Those people you want to be good, better, best friends with. Nice, right? Then they will be picked by the hand and taken from the basket. It's not everyday that this happens to everyone but I guess I'm unlucky on that part. Gradeschool, highschool, college, post-college. Care for post-work? People I consider important and people whom I want to be important to just get off somewhere. (No, you douche, I don't think it's because of me that's why they retract away from my life. Their reasons are different and valid enough.)

People leave. People come and go. They walk in and out of our lives. I don't know if it's easy for them to do so. What's ideal to say here is that we just have to make the most while they're with us, while we still matter to them. That we must not weep that it ended, but rejoice that it happened.

And since I'm not a hypocrite. I don't believe in that.

That makes it more difficult for me. I don't know if it's better but if the signs are there, I don't want to be too attached. (But since I'm an unlucky person, there were no signs. Just a surprise that it's departure time already.) 'Cause the exit makes everything so much worse (for me). They say the good times will trump the absence. KissMyA..ppendix.

Cheesy lines would say/add, goodbyes mean hellos. Goodbyes are not goodbyes, they're see you laters. Yeah. See each other in a while.

But things will never be the same. You can't regret but it's such a waste that sh*t happens.

MORAL: People, they come and go. Life, it doesn't give a f**k on your feelings. These are times when we wish we are like rocks and stones. Emotionless.

When life gives you lemons, do you slit your wrists and squeeze the lemon on top? No, that's too emo-retard.
Turn that frown upside-down. Do a handstand if you must.

Mt. Pulag - Benguet

2011-01-13T21:42:00.000+08:00

I just saw today (January 13) that I have more than 40 drafts saved. Hello backlog!

Mt. Pulag, Benguet

Nov. 19-22, 2010

This adventure made me realize how important exercise is, how amazing it is to be reacquainted with nature, how awesome it is to carry your own stuff and hike up the highest peak in Luzon with that smirk that you didn't ask someone to carry your pack for you. Haha. The cold temperature is a challenge but I've been sitting at "Siberia" my whole office life so Pulag's "coolness" has been tolerable for me and a thick-skinned frenemy, even though we managed to wake-up at 12am because we're too proud to bring blankets and "winter" stuff. Well, it was a freezing experience. Hahaha. I could flood this with so many photos but the peak has been the most extreme in terms of pulchritude. It's simply breathtaking.

Waiting for the sunrise with everyone wrapped in their warm clothing.

First time to ride "top load" or ride on the jeepney's roof, together with the spare tires and trek bags, and your face acting like a windshield (hello tree branches). Lucky us as we got there with a nice weather. The sun wasn't scorching hot when we trekked up the mountain, it rained a little when we were sleeping at the campsite, and the clouds when we went to the summit were really majestic. Enjoying the view with cups of hot coffee made the moment stupendous. Waiting for the sunrise has never been this exciting.

See the sea of clouds from Mt Pulag's summit.

MORAL: Who says you need to have a holiday to be able to enjoy your weekend? If you can't admit that Philippines is a beautiful place, you haven't looked beyond your backyard yet. :)

Candy Mountain! It was like a scene from The Lord of the Rings.

Refresh Year

2011-01-03T03:02:00.003+08:00

365 days is too long to be happy all throughout. So it's better to say Survive the New Year! Or better yet, Have A God Year! Time to put a higher being in the center of our lives.

Writing is therapeutic. Paper is back. Well, it still is the chosen weapon by grade schoolers and hormone-filled high schoolers. I'm referring to pen and paper.

Maybe it's time to go back to the writing. Pretty soon, everything may well be up in the clouds (search about cloud computing as a start) and all you have are your little notebooks you thought your dog buried at your backyard.

“I never travel without my diary,” wrote Oscar Wilde. “One should always have something sensational to read on the train.” This piece of advice changed my attitude towards journal-writing completely. If you had a boring, uneventful day, why bore yourself all over again by recounting it in your diary? [....]

People, you have to be considerate. You can’t just think about yourselves—think about the people who might read your diary. Your nosy boyfriend or girlfriend, your mother (Aaaaaaaaaaaaa), the servants, colleagues who hate you. Do you want to confirm their suspicion that you are slowly but surely expiring from ennui? You have a blog/facebook account for that; your secret personal diary is another matter. Give them something to make their eyes pop out of the backs of their heads.

- Jessica Zafra

Yes, who needs a blow-by-blow account of how you managed to light up a firework, with it shooting upwards, then exploding to a magnificent array of colored lights and emitting a wonderful smoke. No one wants to read about your long wait at Starbucks' line and how you noticed that the woman in front of you didn't think of what she wants to order until the time she was asked, thus, extending the waiting time. Who wants/needs to know about that except your stalker, maybe?

MORAL: A new year means turning a new leaf for most of us. It might not be as significant to others but to those who want to move on, need a breakthrough, desire more, the new year is the perfect chance. It fills us with hope and that feeling of starting anew.

2010-12-31T16:42:00.000+08:00

Everyday I see the news, all the problems that we could solve.

Tell me what you want to hear, something that were like those years. I'm sick of all the insincere, so I'm gonna give all my secrets away.

This time, don't need another perfect line. Don't care if critics ever jump in line. I'm gonna give all my secrets away.

Don't let me disappear. I'm gonna tell you everything. Tell me what you want to hear.

I mean this.

The Shutdown Habit

2010-12-30T03:17:00.000+08:00

For the whole Christmas break (yes, I have a Christmas break just like in high school and college) I have been sleeping from 5am-3pm regularly. 5am-3pm is not my work shift, it's the time I drop unconscious on the bed and drag myself up in the ~~morning~~ afternoon. Our house-help has been very diligent on reminding me that my eyebags are bigger and darker than the Longchamps. She tells me I'll be welcoming the New Year with two malletas in my eyes. How can I tell her that I prefer the midnight calmness, the silence accompanied by the sound of the water in the aquarium, and no one telling me to do this or that? We always get visitors in daylight, the television is always on, the dog always barks (because of the said visitors that are mind you, visible, so don't start with those ghost stories and sixth sense), and the phone doesn't stop ringing. It's like a corporate jungle here. How about the room? My brother works with a European shift, so no, the room is not safe.

I prefer it that way, sleeping at 5am or 6am depending on when I get light-headed. That's why I'm one of those nocturnal people. And oh, bright lights blind me. These wee hours are my best friends. Gives me time to think (not go emo-bashing) and time to read.

MORAL: There is peace in being alone. Solitude. We do not need to live and breathe on the daily hustle and bustle of people. Why are we so afraid of silence? It is not the end of a conversation, it's being comfortable when no words are necessary. It doesn't mean the end of a party, it's a time we bask in each other's presence, accepting that other people being there is enough for one to go on living.

DJ Earworm - United State of Pop 2010 (Don't Stop the Pop)

2010-12-30T00:43:00.000+08:00

Here we go again. DJ Earworm's annual ADHD mix that would get you pumped up whatever you are doing the time you pressed play. What's interesting is not just the music itself, also the way he mashed-up the music videos of the different songs. Pretty impressive, right? I know. That's why he's here.

MORAL: If it's on the list, DJ Earworm will make something out of it.

Awestruck

2010-12-29T00:18:00.000+08:00

Tuesday can easily be forgotten. I know this day will just pass by the moment I woke up. Mixed feelings of dread (that vacation is going to be over real soon) and excitement (of the promise of a new beginning) are filling me to the brim.

I went out of the house and saw something: the stars are different tonight. They twinkle like it's the last time they'll do so. It's fascinating. I thought it's just one star because my sight was transfixed to it but as I scanned the nightsky, I saw all the stars sparkling tonight. I stood outside for some time, paralyzed, struck in awe.

MORAL: Down and blue, the heavens conspired to make things better for us.

The Black Swan

2010-12-28T05:03:00.001+08:00

Natalie Portman and choreographer Benjamin Millepied are engaged and expecting their first child, her reps confirm to PEOPLE exclusively.

The couple met during the production of Black Swan. Portman's performance in the film has earned her nominations for a Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award.

The actress, 29, will next be seen in the romantic comedy, No Strings Attached, costarringAshton Kutcher.

This will be the first child for the actress who is due in 2011.

Fudge. I have built magical worlds and castles around the idea and name of Natalie Portman. How can this happen? The perfect person. So what if I downloaded most of her movies off the Internet? I had a Natalie Portman phase! I drowned myself in tea and finished a book because of this. It's like Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens all over again. The "What?! The?! Heck?!" effect, just like when Paramore butchered the Farro brothers. I know that issue is controversial and still hot in the music world but hey, they let that happen and it's inevitable. Still, What The Heck?! December 2010 is pretty much banged up. And we're just a week away from the New Year. Might as well busy myself with other things. Other things include reading and finally deciding to start planning the next year, not to mention binge eating. So far the only thing I have told myself, "There is such a thing as comb. I must stop finger-combing my hair all the time." See? I'm messed up. Even my fonts are inconsistent. I'll probably watch "The Black Swan" half-choking on water or whatever I would be drinking.

MORAL: And in those two seconds, you knew a lot more than what they do.

Yellow Tea Submarine

2010-12-27T03:11:00.002+08:00

Coffee has been the go-to drink when one's bored or just want to chill out. No, you don't drink alcohol just because you want to or you feel like no one loves you. If you're drinking alcohol alone, that's sad! You better look for a drinking buddy (me! me!). Either that or you might have a drinking problem already. Alcoholics Anonymous sounds familiar? Bing it!

I'm straying from the topic again. I've been drinking tea since forever, milk teas included and their additional sugar and "pearls". For quite some time, I've been brewing tea good enough for 3-4 people using our percolator. I put spoonfuls of green tea leaves into the percolator and wait till it boils and change color. I end up drinking/finishing the contents of the percolator resulting into a sleepless night.

A regular solo tea party. Sad I know. But that's about to change! How? Read on!

Chopper, my teammate/friend/officemate/whatever gave me this awesome Tea Submarine for Christmas, just because I think she found it cute or whatever. And here I thought she would give me tofu for Christmas. Nonetheless, it's a great device! Stuff some tea leaves inside the submarine and use it like a teabag! Dip it into the hot water then watch and listen as the bubbles come up. Heehee. Cool shizzles.

Subbie!!

Watching water turn to tea has never been this fun ~~for a kid like me~~. See the color come out from the small holes and you just got to have self-control. You might have a really strong tea in the end.

Tea infuser! It's a more exciting, fun version of a tea bag. Haha.

MORAL: TeaSub, for the perfect tea experience. The TeaSub submerges tea leaves to the bottom of your cup creating the perfect infusion of your favourite brew. These exact words are the ones written at the side of the box. So I'm not really marketing it to you, okay?

I had to stop dipping it. Or else my green tea would taste like ampalaya already. @__@

Intergalactic Space Lava

2010-12-20T11:55:00.001+08:00

This was hand-written in my notebook and the title is not related to anything, just something I heard from the movie that was playing the time I was mindlessly writing things off. I better just take a photo of the page and post it. Hmm... Yeah, that's better.

Dec. 19, 2010 12:39 AM

I jumped off from our couch, suddenly having a sense of urgency. I've got to fix my presents. A couple of moments wherein people are talking to me, all I can think of is what to give to whom. And now, I washed my face and whipped out my list - an Excel spreadsheet in my phone. Right now, I'm writing this list on my other-company notebook and will transfer my digital list and put it into writing. *leaves to start writing*

Oh, after 2 hours (time check 2:30 AM) of distraction, eating, writing, and planning, I have a few accounts receivable, nothing to wear in our team's party, and I totally just watched my money go to others. How to welcome Dec. 19? I watched Devil (good enough!) and the 6th episode of The Walking Dead. I still lack a couple of presents, ~~and I know I can't finish Ramona and Beezus today. Why hello there, Sherlock Holmes! I could do some reading today!~~ finished Ramona and Beezus and dropped the idea of reading a book.

MORAL: Writing feels good. Typing feels dehumanizing at times.

2010-12-09T14:38:00.001+08:00

You gave me love for pain, now you're much more than a stranger.

I wanna give you love but all I have is rain.

Ang lahat ng ito ay walang saysay kung hindi rin lang ikaw ang dahilan.

Squirrel Got Too Much Tea To Drink

2010-12-04T03:44:00.002+08:00

WARNING: This is an entry full of totally unrelated sentences stitched together to look like there are paragraphs of meaningful pocketfull of sunshine. This is the epitome of squirrel moment(s).

This is one of those instances when I drink too much green tea and totally forget it also has caffeine. See, I brewed my tea (YES I DO! It's really easy you know.) and while catching up with my series in this order - Nikita, Glee, The Vampire Diaries, Grey's Anatomy - I was drinking tea. By the time I was watching The Vampire Diaries, the percolator was dry. I drank everything. And at 3AM I still feel like it's 9PM. My dad noticed my ADHD because he was eating when I plugged in my flashdisk to the player. He enjoys Nikita because of Maggie Q and duhr, it's an action-packed series with loads of testosterone! Then next played Glee which he also enjoys because he always says how Charice (Pempengco, yo!) is so much better than Rachel Berry. After Glee, The Vampire Diaries played and it was only then that he noticed his kid has ADHD, "Bakit iba na naman?!" Oh, forgot to mention about my ninja scene! I was sitting duck, when a FLIPIS (a flying ipis/cockroach) came from behind and I jumped sideways with a shout, "FLIPIS!" Yes, I really said the word, not like it'll help me at all. I left before Grey's Anatomy reached the 1-minute mark. No area is safe when there's a lurking cockroach around. @.@

I've already put my hiking bag's rain cover back after being washed by Belly. Thanks, Belle, for always cleaning my stuff. Heehee. Speaking of which I haven't even written about my Mt. Pulag experience. Have I ever claimed how much I love the smell of fresh laundry? I would like to thank Cindy for bringing me a new bag from Vietnam. Now I have a bag that is smaller than my trek bag and can serve as a casual bag or even an overnight bag. Why did I type that? Beats me.

I want to join the EcoRun2010! Also, I want a Birthday Run! The only race/run scheduled so far on my birthday is a couple/tandem one. GREAT!!! I still feel awful about what happened last Thursday. When you don't know what happened and it's pinned on you indirectly, that's bad. It's eating me inside, just like ulcer. Of course I'm just kidding but hey. [I'll probably write about it next time.]

Oh I haven't explained the squirrel moment thing. Remember in the Pixar movie "Up" there's the speaking dog aptly named Doug? He starts to talk about something then stops smack in the middle, "Squirrel!" That's my attention span.

MORAL: You just have to understand yourself and know which factors can bring out some weird things in you. Yes, like how green tea's making me type like a madman, blurt out "WTF" things (ask Stacy), and others (ask Ryan). I deleted a couple of sentences because I can't remember what I was supposed to type there. I have only typed "Then" and then.... I searched for the Squirrel Clip, chatted with Ryan, and totally forgot about what comes after "Then". Lame-oh. No, I'm not doing push-ups to be able to sleep just yet... because it's raining outside.

T-Swizzling Manila

2010-11-27T00:57:00.001+08:00

The power of teenagers, tweens, pre-teens, puberty kids, whatever you call the target market, the power is unbelievable. I don't know how they can exudate cold, hard cash for their vices. So when Taylor Swift had news of performing here in Manila, I think the population almost jumped at the same time and tried to put imbalance to the world. Then when the news about the supposed concert being a hoax surfaced, I heard a collective gasp around the metro. And thoughts of the Philippines being 3rd world started again, not solving anything at all like poverty.

Finally, when there were news again that Taylor Swift is having a concert here in the Philippines, the population all drank Red Bull, started curling their hair, and proved that we can bring top-selling artists in the not-so-third-world-Philippines. She's performing in Araneta Coliseum next year and the moment ticket selling started, I believe thousands of tweens cried to their parents or stole money from their older siblings to purchase tickets because on the 3rd day,~~the dead came to life~~ certain sections were already sold out! Give in 2 more days after the "sold out" news spread like wildfire, the only remaining seats are for General Admission. Really, honey, kids have gone bonkers.

My friend and I think that maybe on January, kids are going to start lining up for the February concert already. It's okay to be there and bring binoculars than stay at home, coop-up and cry because you didn't get to see T-Swizzle swoosh her curly blonde hair in Manila.

MORAL: If the zombies are coming to eat you, run as fast as you can. Tickets are difficult to come by and usually, "in" artists are only going to visit the country once. No regrets, baby.

2010-11-23T22:39:00.002+08:00

A long time ago, we used to be friends but I haven't thought of you lately at all.

If ever again, a greeting I send to you. Short and sweet to the soul I intend.