Homecoming: SSP @ Davao 2006

Went back to my second home last week: Davao City. It was first time to travel alone, and I reveled in the solitude both in the airport and in my hotel room. It was then I realized that amidst the friendsters and multiply connections, and my aspirations to become a "connector" (thanks to tipping point!), I really am an introvert at heart. I guess growing up, I already find small talk exhausting and actually desire for more adult company and more meaningful conversations.

Not that I didn't find the company of old ADDU friends equally fun! I didn't get drunk though, for the first time (haha!) It was really great meeting up with Nate, Dave, JC and Carla, even for just a while. I wish I had more time to spend with them, even my shopping at Aldevinco was rushed! Oh well, there's always next year right? :-)

Work-wise, I learned a lot from the convention. Amazingly, I was able to sit through a whole day's symposium and appreciate every word! I even texted Drew and told him I had a brief inkling to pursue the medical profession! Looking back, I realize that I enjoy the academic aspect of it, learning about new studies and pursuing new molecules to find cures for emerging syndromes. But I don't think I'm ready for the responsibility of having someone's life in your hands--I'm not that brave yet... For now, I'm content to be in the surrounding industry, and to "entertain" them as much as I can. Where's my next dance card, Dr Morales? Hehe :-)

Last Palamandesals at Karl's, Davao Airport

Strat Plan @ Edsa Shang

I finished everything! Yumyum!

When I was younger, one of my fervent wishes was to stay at Edsa Shang overnight, order room service, indulge in a jacuzzi and sleep in their gigantic white terry robes. I can't explain why, but there's a certain charm to Edsa Shang that makes me feel right at home there. Several years later (after many other hotel travels), I got my wish... and did all of the above when LRI stayed in at Edsa Shang for the annual Strat Plan. I had the best breakfast ever at 12mn (don't ask the price!), right after soaking in a bubble bath and massage... everything was just divine! It was the most poignant treat I could give myself for earning my first paycheck! I guess there really is a right timing to everything... just trust God to give you your heart's desires at His own time, even if it's merely a wish as shallow as enjoying the pampering of a hotel like Edsa Shang :-)

The conference was a tiring three-day stint, and my mind was overloaded with stats and forecasts that each night I retired to bed was a welcome treat. Since my roomie Daye opted to go home instead each night, I had the whole place to myself. But I had "intruders" every so often--my girl friends who would barge in for surprise slumber parties, random chikas and many many photo-ops! We had the most fun when we won the videoke challenge during Fellowship Night, and I'm most grateful for the experience to bond with them... which is actually next Monday at SSP Davao! Oh well, this is the life I chose--one that lives in a suitcase often. At least I have girls to share travel anecdotes with. And don't forget the dancing shoes!