KFC's Fast Food

KFC Counters

It's been a long time since I last ate at KFC, a far cry from the days when Chicken Caesar Salad was considered my staple rice at every meal. So I decided to have a go at it again after the mass last night, only to find out that nothing really changed that much since my last visit. The food's still great (I missed the salad terribly!), but the service still sucks. I wondered, as I waited at the counter line for almost fifteen minutes just to get a salad, a 1-piece meal and mashed potatoes, if the crew even knew the definition of fast food. Heck, I don't think a supervisor was even around to explain what the concept meant. There was chaos all over--the frontliners repeated my order thrice, scrambled to the back to shout out weird food codes and were slipping all over spilt soda just behind the counter. The result? Around 8-9 angry customers per queue, still waiting in line, wondering what the fuss is all about and what the hell is taking them sooooo damn long!

What's surprising is that those angry customers are just that-- just waiting. Nobody I think bothers to leave the line, or complain to the manager, or do anything about it. I did certainly raise my concerns, only to a food service crew unfortunately, for the supervisor was nowhere in sight. I guess, the people at KFC thinks that their food must be so great that even if their service sucks big-time, people will still flock to their stores. Sure, that can work for a while. But how long till people get tired of their crappy service, that is also uncertain. I hope, for their sakes, it's sooner than later, so they can get their acts together and start giving us loyal customers the service we truly deserve. That means FAST!!! :-)

Body Wellness Body Scrub

Body Scrub... Heavenly! :-)

Got myself a really really good body scrub this afternoon! I've never felt so well-rubbed, well-scrubbed, well-exfoliated in my entire life! My initial irritation at having to wait beyond their promised time (even if I extended over an hour at the sauna!) is now forgotten and forgiven for. My skin feels so smooth, so rejuvenated... I think I'd want to go to the beach again just to get myself another scrub! Haha! And it's quite cheap also, just P400 (exclusive of tips of course) for a full body service... This is the life...

Can't wait to get my body spa at Nurture Spas for my birthday!!!

BORACAY INVASION!!!

With Cris and Wangbu @ Bora! :-)

Yep, for the second time this year, I was blessed to be given the opportunity to invade the white sand beaches of Bora once more!!! Was super excited, I bought all my beach gears early on, planned my outfits and packed two days ahead of my departure date. Of course, this particular Bora visit meant work for both Bliss and Summer Monkey which is why I had to really contribute something as well. And I believed I also went the extra mile--negotiations at Paraw, booking the tickets for the Intras and the models, coordinating with everyone... it was tough but I really had a lot of fun! I'm glad the sampling and the oculars went just fine (except for the Jude incident that is… but that's water under the bridge now...)

This Bora was definitely one of the best vacations I've had in a long time. I guess it pays to know what you're expecting, so you already have an idea of what you won't miss doing the second time around. And I did have a list (so I'll forever be OC, sue me! Haha) so I wouldn't forget this time what I should have done last May: night swimming, early morning dip(of course it didn't help that I had my monthly the second I stepped on Boracay shores! Good thing that was only for 3 days!), henna tattoo (cute flower, stemmed rose at my back, and a free one at my right hand! Thanks Long for the freebie!), massage by the beach (full body this time! Super heavenly!), sunbathing (got my tan line! Yesssss!), walk from stations 1-3 (okay, so it was in installments, but I still walked that whole lot... pwede na din!), beads bargain shopping (completed my pasalubong list! Yay!), and partayyyyyy!!!! (bish and booze and a wholelotta dancin'!!!!). I even stayed up two whole nights to make up for all the dinners and bars I missed with the Intras when I'm in Manila. I was even able to visit the Church, and pray for the souls of my loved ones I wasn't able to visit this years' All Souls' Day. What to add next time: Braids (if I'm not rebounded anymore!) and Banana Boat definitely!

Totally loved Paraw (Cris and I danced it up alright! Haha) and Bom-bom's (I'm now a certified Reggae convert! Bob Marley all the way! "I don't wanna wait in vain for your love...Idon'twanna Idon'twannaIdon'twannaIdon'twanna... Idon'twanna wait in vain!"). We had different choices for our meals and restaurants, which I also loved: Make your own breakfast at Paradiso, milkshakes galore and 6am-before-we-sleep-pampatanggal-amats-omelettes at Jonah's, Baby Back Ribs and Baked Oysters at Gastrof, Heavenly Crepes at Cafe SanMichel, sinigang at Smoke Resto D'Mall Talipapa, even Longganisa Burgers at BBQ Stands at the Beach Front (the one I threw up though later after five beers at 3pm!). Who said anything about dieting anyway?!?!?! Definitely one of the most fun food trips I've had... which is why I'm in Nesvita and C2 Detox mode now! Haha :-P


Bliss Night @ Cocomangas

Celeb Sighting Galore as well! Mygash, my mom would have a field day if she was there with me the whole time! I spied (and stalked a bit): Angel Aquino, Maui Taylor and Brian Revilla (PDA all the way at Paraw... ewwww! That was not a pretty picture), Gwen Garci, Katya Santos, Jennifer Lee, Vandolph and Grace, Sunshine Dizon, Karel Marquez, Paula Peralejo, Luis Alandy (total Baldwin!), John Hall (ulam sobra!), Phoemela Barranda, Rachel Lobangco (the Firedancer!) among others I might have forgotten already. Not too mention a few of my friendsters as well: shout-outs to Dianne Aquino, Buona Lacaba, Parx Jacinto, Faith Manguiat, Ter and Nina (who's apparently a couple now! Kudos to you both!), Amy Ang, Andrea Logarta, and special mention to Harvard, whom I wasn't able to say Hi (twice!), but can now admit I was happy to see at Bora.

Even now I can still imagine the sand beneath my toes, the chilly but clear water waking me up early morning, and the waves as it crashed towards the shore---I'm longing for and missing terribly that carefree feeling when you're in a wholly different world like Boracay. They say you can assume a different identity when you're in a foreign land--I can say that I felt more like myself while I was in Bora. No pretentions, no expectations. It was fun and liberating at the same time... Part of it may be because of the people I'm with also--it wouldn't have been as great without this right mix of people: hugs, toasts and thanks to Dennis, Cris, Brian, Kiko, Monica, Lynne, yep even Jude. You guys made my Bora experience truly unforgettable. Can't wait for Summer Monkey next year!!!

The Perfect Man

Perfect Man :-)

Was looking forward to a no-brainer flick this week, and I knew I had a lot to choose from. Mom and I ended up with The Perfect Man, with Hilliary Duff and Heather Locklear. It was a feel-good romantic comedy, even though the story really had no backbone.. the girl was cute (i think i'm quite the Hillary Duff fan, more than Lindsay actually), the boy was cute, the story was cute... everything was oozing with the "cuteness factor, which was exactly what I was looking for so I was quite happy with it. A friend was actually disappointed when he watched it, probably coz he was looking for something worthwhile to watch (click here for the full review in his blog). Will most likely include this in my romatic comedy collection, must-buy in my next DVD shopping galore. :-)

Footloose!

Me with Iya at Footloose... mas maganda ako! haha :-)

Went with Monna to the last weekend showing of Footloose... almost didnt make it, tipid kse. Pero was thinking that this was one opportunity not worth missing. Besides, matagal tagal na din ako hindi nanonood ng musical, and I kinda missed it. Lesson learned though: don't get tickets at the last minute! Or else, you'll be sent to different National Bookstores in Ortigas just to catch the Nice Ticketnet Lady... sayang yng taxi!!! :-P

Our seats were at the far end, and Monna and I changed seats twice just to get a better view of the stage. The kids (Scholars by Lito Atienza) around us were hilarious, maraming hirit (at one "senti" moment, one kid shrieked..."kamukha ni Santa Claus o!". Umurong Luha ko!) They were quite generous also with their applause; we felt like we were at ASAP and not Meralco Theater!

After the performance, we went onstage to catch a closer glimpse of the actors, and even went backstage to get pictures. Groupies tlga... Fanatic na ito! It's always fun to be "showbiz" with Monna, coz we're always game to meet the artists and get juicy gossips along the way!

The play itself was one of the best ones I've seen... it made me want to rent Kevin Bacon's original film version right after! The veterans gave outstanding performances, as expected(Audie Gemora and Agot Isidro were personal favorites), but I'll have to say that "Almost Paradise" is still my favorite number. Have new crush though: Gian Magdangal (who plays Will) is apparently really good looking up-close. Kilig tlga! Haha :-) Can't wait for the next play! [Hope Jude can get us more backstage passes in the future... Christian Bautista anyone??? :-P]

On Startups

"In a startup, you want people who can survive without structure."
-Tony Zhang, Founder, AskMeFinance

Amen.

Real Estate Hunt

My boss gave a speech today regarding Robert Kiyosaki's book, Rich Dad, Poor Dad... I've read that book and finance explained in layman's terms really made a lot of sense. The only problem was, it was based on american culture, so most of the examples used may not be applicable to the Philippine setting, especially in today's economic and financial crisis. He showed us then a recently published Filipino version of the book: "Think Rich Pinoy", but it also stresses the importance of having the right mix of business, portfolio and real estate to gain financial freedom.

They say that the best time to invest in real estate is NOW, when most businesses are closing shop and the lots for sale are pegged at lower market prices. On my way to work today, my eyes caught at least ten "for sale" signs, that would have been good investments (for buy and sell) if only I had the capital. Which is why now I have four jobs! One resource to take would be to buy assets foreclosed by the bank... you can leverage capital investment first on a loan based on future sale, and still get profitable margins net from market rates. I personally prefer real estate over stock exchange which is more volatile to changes based on political and economic crisis. It's lower in risk, and has bigger chances of return as well. The concept may seem easy, but it takes practice I guess. And the good thing is, there is no age limit to real estate! (Which is why you see older moms leafletting at mall entrances everywhere!) May want to late this year, when my savings are more stabilized... consultancy with Dennis and Tito Romy may be good options to take as well :-) Happy House and Lot Hunting For Me! :-)

Welcome and Farewell

The group said goodbye to Kiko, who will now concentrate on Hotshots for the meantime.... Will miss having his company at the war room...

Welcome to two new Intras: Monna (who is my work buddy for three companies now! haha :D) and Jude (GameKNB-slash-Batibot veteran-slash-Grease director-slash-new theater buddy=Christian Bautista! harhar)

Out of Sight, Out of Mind (?)

Last week was a reunion of sorts. Met up with old friends in AIESEC whom I haven't seen for the longest time (thank God for neverending welcome dinners and stammtisches!). And as expected, usual topics for small talk involve current relationship status... to which I automatically answer "same old, same old".

Thing is, most of us are still single, and only a few people has even the tiniest spark of change in our love lives. Maybe we have already been trained by AIESEC to put work first before everything else, or lest we really have no other social lives besides those friday night dinners. Other than that, I really can't quite put my finger into it... why no one else (besides our lonesome selves) consider our company equally interesting to pursue...

For me and Marc at least, we realized that it's a case of not letting the past go. We're still hung up on people we (think we) are in love with... even if we don't see them quite often. I don't see my guy as often as I wanted to, but we do talk more on the phone these days. Sometimes I even find myself making up excuses just to meet with him (talk about pathetic no?), and I'm getting pretty tired. How long do I have to wait? How long before he realizes that the two of us might perhaps have a flicker of a chance of working out as a couple? How long before I open my eyes to the greater possibility that maybe, just maybe, he's not really that into me and all we are are merely really really really good friends?

How do you stay friends with someone you're in love with?

I look back at my decade-long infatuation with a certain childhood friend, whom I was able to forget only after finding another soul to fantasize upon (this being my current inspiration). I sigh, because I don't want to go through another decade of having unrequited feelings forever. Frankly, it's getting boring and predictable. Thing is, I really can't let go of him, of this. Out of sight, out of mind they say... so I guess I should stay away more, huh? That's my cure?

If only I can stand to be out of touch for more than a month, which is my quota so far... I'll be out of the woods in no time... free as a bird Ü

EX Factor

Recently, I’ve been having weirdly vivid dreams of certain, um, people in my life. I guess what they say about dreams is true… your subconscious desires are more cognitively realized when deep in slumber. … My latest obsession, it seems, involves “the could have been’s”… those that at one point or another, have gotten away…

I think Jonjon was the one who pulled this particular trigger.. discovering that he himself has moved on and found his own “puffin” brought out mixed emotions for me. I know that in this lifetime, things might be difficult for the two of us, and that another person will be able to make him truly happy. I sincerely do wish him happiness.. walang showbiz. But I wasn’t ready to hear that he has moved on so fast. And to hear from his own words that she was the best girl he ever met… um, leaves me exactly where? :-(

Backtrack to memory lane, leaves me with painful memories of ER, whom I just dreamed of last night. Yep, even if my dreams he was still egotistical and controlling, but underneath was the sweet malambing person I fell in love with. Of everyone, he was the only person I like willing to take the risk with me. Only I was too damn scared. So the guy isn’t perfect, I’m not either. Too late for that realization. Up to thi day, I still wonder what ifs… would my life have been different had I taken that road? Should I just have defended him to my friends? *sigh* He’s still with hig girlfriend, good to know that like he promised, he is indeed capable of long-term relationships. Only wishful thinking can tell if the same fates would have befallen us if I had said yes in that now nonexistent parking lot…

Maybe I’m just being melancholic. Or sentimental. Sometimes I hate this feeling of the month when all I can do is daydream and sigh and wish for some other life… wish for a different past. But, like all things I’ve learned the hard way, life has way of making you stronger for future things to come. Maybe, like I’ve always believed (to keep me sane), things that don’t happen are not always meant to be… well, maybe not right now… :-)

5 Questions from Eda :-)

1. So how come wala pa rin boyfriend?
Because I don't want to settle...and because I haven't met anyone who was willing to take me seriously. And because I'm still waiting for a certain person.. (yeah, yeah I know... battered wife syndrome...hehe)

2. Bakit ka ganyan?
Bakit ako ANO? Bangag? Dahil sa trabaho. Martyr? Dahil matigas ulo ko tlga... hanggang ngayon, mahilig pa rin ako sa "malalansa". Magastos? Kse collections ang hobby ko.. kaya nga ngpapakalunod ako sa starbucks ngayon para makuha yng npkamahal na "backpack".

3. Are you happy with your job?
It's a love-hate relationship. Most of the time I feel soooo tired of thinking about everything all the time.. suppliers, inventory, med reps and sales reps... headache tlga! I have to keep up with the fast-paced work environment or else the business goes down with me.

But I'm loving the challenge... I learn something new everyday, like being more professional for instance. The pharma industry has opened my eyes to how certain businesses operate in the Philippines, and I wouldn't trade that for any corporate experience. The intrapinoys are my new fam as well.. so in the midst of all the paperwork, at least we can still laugh it off and just head to a food trip afterwards.. the perks of having flexi time as well ;-)

4. If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
Um, I wish I had stronger knees... para mkpg diving ako sa Anilao :-) Other than that, everything's good!

5. So sinong mauuna satin ikasal?
With the rate things are going....... hard to tell! Haha! Feeling ko IKAW :-) Mas adventurous ka sa akin eh... at least you get to fulfill your part of the dares!

So you people know the drill...
1. Leave me a comment in the tagboard, saying, "Interview me."
2. I will respond by asking you five questions. I get to pick the questions.
3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.
4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post.
5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.

New Friends, Old Habits

Last weekend at MJ's Batch was my first time to staff in DAYS totally alone... no sisters, no Mommy Rach to keep my company and sort of be my "safety net". I went back because it was my personal commitment to Him--to continue staffing and serve others who are continuously searching for their own paths to Him, regardless of friends who may or may not staff with me.

It was a little difficult this time, because I was forced out of my "comfort zone". Admittedly, I am still quite the introvert... I can keep silent the whole time, merely being the observer or a listener in the background. Which was mostly what happened this weekend. Surprisingly though, the situation provided me the opportunity to get to know other staffers din... spent a lot of time with Jhoolz, Milo, Roda, even Sam and Mac during our all nighter adventures at 7-11... went to Ababu (yep, my first time) with Pat, Amy, Carla, and Allan... croaked my lungs out at the choir with Jun and Trix (super tiring yng three hour's worth of finishing the entire song book! but it was fun nonetheless :-)

God really works in mysterious ways.. and I'm always happy to go back because I can spend real, quality time with Him... I always feel overwhelmed with all the blessings, and this is one of the times I can truly thank Him for everything that is good in my life. The prayers and reflections give me so much strength to face the challenges ahead, especially in work. I may not go to Mass everyday nor do my vigils regularly, but I'm grateful for this opportunity to grow spiritually with Him. In a way, it's my pledge to go back again to help others feel the same way. I hope I can bring more friends to experience Days as well, we stopped after October last year... For the meantime, will go back and support my friends' weekends next September... Till then! To all my sisters and Mommy Rach, whom I miss very much... to all my new friends as well: bimmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmk! :-)

Franchising Fiesta

Went to Megatrade today for the Franchising Fiesta Expo... most of the participants were in the food business (which I hope to get into someday). Franchise Fees ranged from 150K for food the carts to 350/450K for the small to medium-sized restos. Total investment ranges from 500K to 2M. Though I was still saving up for a potential franchise, it was a good learning experience to scout for potential franchise owners that can accommodate my budget and has workable requirements.

Primary consideration, besides financial capacity of course, would be the location for the franchise. This I have to still check out, but with the onset of Malls, I think that is most likely where I will be venturing in. Rent will be another major factor to consider, however. But knowing these rates and how basically the franchising system works, what I can do now is to save up for the investment and learn the tricks of the trade from Halfmoon, Bossing and Hotshots :-)

Hopefully I'll get my own franchise food store by the time I'm 30... Time to get out of the "rate race"!

Upside and Downside

Today's definitely one of the weirdest days... was feeling giddy, melancholic, frustrated... all in just a span of 24 hours...

Went to get Julius' college app form at DLSU. As agreed on months before, Allan went also to accompany me on the trip, not just to get the documents (that was both our excuse for meeting anyway) but to give me the grand tour of LaSalle, and to treat me out to lunch.. both of which were long-overdue promises...

The grand tour was really what it was: a grand tour! We literally went in every building, I learned all the acronyms there is to know (CC, SJ, LS, Z2...), but it was definitely fun. We laughed a lot, hysterical even. I've never seen him joke around that much, and I really had a great time. He was such a gentleman, treating me to a wonderful lunch at La Pacita (might probably get them for catering in the future) always opening doors for me, introducing me to his old frinds whom we met during the tour.... even rescuing me from an old man on the street who had didn't have the best (nor cleanest) intentions--speaking from a girl's perspective....

Was really happy to see him (even if I forgot his gift from vietnam and my hair clips... super hot day!), but deep inside, like I've always known... I'm now totally convinced of the truth: we're really not meant to be. Though he's really nice and friendly and accommodating, and while I truly appreciate his effort to spend the whole day in DLSU for me... there were no sparks. All it was were two old friends catching up and hanging out. Which may not be so bad after all. Still many many many thanks to Allan for an unforgettable day at DLSU! Time will only tell when I can really let go though, but at least I'm getting there... ;-)

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Scheduled dinner with Tina tonight after ten million years of not seeing each other! After a few minutes of stories and catching up, Dad calls me and tells me we have to go earlier than expected. Bummer! And he calls again telling me that he'll just pick me up, which he did, but since we were still getting the bill, we were late in getting outside the door.... triggering again his notorious temper. I can't believe he was so pissed off and cursing me with my "insensitiveness" and "stupidity" within Tina's presence! I was so embarrassed and humiliated and angry at the same time!

It was so unfair! why do I feel like such a brat whenever my parents are around? It's like I can't even get off their shadow... even if I say I'll jsut commute home, they won't let me because it's too late. And they blame me for making my dad stay out late also because of my evening commitments. It fells like a trap... I can't work at night nor have night socials with colleagues (which is semi-required.. pakikisama sa office) because of my Dad! I wish I could just grow up and be independent for once...

And I've enver felt so unappreciated as last night.. when I came home with GO Nuts, Shawarma, Chinese food takeout, Halfmoon for pasalubong (my salary day blow-out)... nobody even bothered to say thanks.. they just continued being pissed off at me! I couldn't do anything about it. I was so mad and frustrated at the same time, I just slept it all off... hence, I was already asleep by 9pm...

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Maybe what they really say is true.. sometimes, you can experience being on the upside and downside all at the same time. I sure felt both yesterday... and though I'm typing relentlessly to cool off and try to explain what just happened, I feel I can't. All I know is that life still goes on, and that's just the way things are... better for me to just accept it and move on to more pressing matters (like my reports due! my new sunblock project!) than dwell on it further...

Flipped!

Totally "Flipped"!

LOVE THIS BOOK! Haven't adored something so much in a long time, and a Children's Book no less! It's no Harry Potter, but it surely got a charm all its own (not to mention a really cute cover! )

"Flipped" reminds me so much of my grade school years, when I was so much like Juli Baker, who had her own mishaps and adventures as well. In every childhood girl's dream, they each had their own "Bryce Loski" to which they fell really hard for--enough to make them bold and commit stupid acts just to get their attention. The boys, in turn, would realize in the end that they feel the same way, only to find out too late that the girls have already matured on moved on to, erm, greener pastures and bigger oceans with bigger fishes. Kids are like that... all of us have been like that.

True enough, I had my own "Bryce". I didn't exactly climb any sycamore trees nor gave away eggs from my own chickens... but I did "network" hard to people really close to him jsut to get real-time tidbits about his personal life. Well, that certainly backfired on me... I did get close to the family (yes, until now), but never really close to him. All I have left is some childhood fantasy... that lasted ten loooong years!

Looking back, though I did a lot of other crazy antics just to catch his eye... some of which I'd just cringe and wished I wasn't too weird and forward. But hey, at least I can smile and laugh now with funny anecdotes to narrate at dinner parties: "One time... at band camp..."

Many many thanks to Eda for lending me this piece, and for always listening to all my childhood brouhahas... Got to get my own copy soon! :-D

Summer Movie Marathon!

Lots of good summer movies out this time of the year. Went ahead and saw almost two every week at the cinemas:

A Lot Like Love, which I have seen alone at Sta. Lucia because Coni forgot our moviedate! Loved this feel-good piece.. makes you think if you really have an "Ashton / Oliver" in your life.. sure sure, I know I was being melodramatic alone inside the theater! Was all alone anyway right?

Sin City, skipped this one because of not-so-great reviews from friends. I wasn't up to seeing it myself anyway

Star Wars 3, Revenge of the Sith, which I finally saw with Marc and Cris at Mega. Allan was my original movie partner for this, but since he watched it already on DVD, went ahead and caught it with two of my oldest friends... bonding time galore with Marc as well, haven't seen and talked to this guy for the loooooooooongest time!

Mr. and Mrs. Smith, saw it with Eda (G4, first showing! yep, we were that excited!) and Mom (StaLucia).... not the world's best script, but the two leads were soooo hot anyway it was a visually stimulating treat! That's Hot :-P

Batman Begins, saw it with Mom(sta. Lucia) and Eda (Powerplant, my first time there... love seats galore! harhar!... my two eternal movie dates! The only film from the franchise that I sincerely appreciated. Very philosophical, not too much action, didn't like Katie too much (her smile is just way too crooked), but totally digged Christian Bale! That's really HOT :-P

Still waiting for Narnia (sources say this will still be up and running by December, kinda like Polar Express with its really early trailers!) , and War of the Worlds (though I'm not too keen to watch the latter either)....

Wonder if they have DVDs of all these... miss Virra Mall already! :-D

Housekeeping with DAYS

Was assigned housekeeping for DAYS this weekend! That was super challenging for me because I rarely did sweep and take out the garbage at home (I was more kitchen duty!), but I welcomed the opportunity to do something new. Even though I became sick the next day (probably because of the stress at work--had deadlines to pass every night during that weekend!-- and of the ehavy downpour), I felt really fulfilled that I was able to accomplish something outside my comfort zone. It was scary though when I was the only one left to clean and close the place up!

Just like every weekend when I staff, I'm glad that I was able to still go on DAYS. I always feel renewed when I staff, as if I'm a participant for the first time... I still get teary eyed and emotional. Jess really works in mysterious and wonderful ways...

Was glad to also meet again with friends I've made within the community, with my sisters and in aiesec... Till next batch, when I'll be a sponsor again... :-)

Trip to Vietnam!

"Disneyland" in Vietnam

(Nah... it's their Cultural Center, just a block away from our hotel at HCMC)

Right after Bora, just went home to pack and came back again to the airport next day for my business trip to Vietnam (was also my first trip abroad so was doubly excited!)

It was a rainy flight, but we quickly got settled at Rex Hotel with Dennis, Tita Nida, Tito Jun, Tito Eddie, and Joyce--who was also my batchmate from St.Paul (talk about small world)!

For the first few days, all we had were meetings with distributors, importers, lawyers, advertisers... my mind was going crazy with all the meetings! Good thing we did go at night to do some "sight-seeing". Admittedly, I wasn't really able to divulge much of the tourist spots because of the fully-booked agenda, but what I learned from the culture is something really valuable and life-changing for me.... I was not totally culturally shocked from the trip, because everything looks like Manila, only 10 years behind and non-English.

Some things I loved in Vietnam:

1. No traffic! Everyone rode in scooters! In a highway, three lanes were full of motorcycles, one lane would only be occupied by other vehicles (read: luxury cars). Rode one through the market side streets (10,000 dong for public transport)... super fun!

2. Safe streets. I can walk until 2 am and I need not worry about someone mugging me or snatching my bag. There are VietCongs everywhere. ;-)

3. Beautiful girls! Nope, i'm still straight... they're just really nice to look at. I get envious sometimes... everywhere I look, there are those slim, straight/long-haired, fair Vietnamese women... it's like Temptation Island but in the city!

4. Being a millionaire! 1 USD = 15,000 dong (approx)... I had about 2M worth of shopping receipts in Ho Chi Minh! Felt good to have all those money.. hehehe :-)

5. Soup and spicy noodles.. their specialty!

Some things I missed in Manila:

1. English. No need to sign language with the taxi driver!

2. Jollibee, and all food restos! Filipinos love to eat definitely... I love our taste! And jollibbee there was depressing (was like twilight zone from the 80's). Lotteria was good though, have to go back for their chicken burger!

3. Smart AND beautiful girls! Nuff said... :-)

4. Starbucks (with no beer! haha)

5. Bars (with real happenings! Felt like I was in Havana back there... uh-oh!)

6. CUTE GUYS! All the men there looked like Manny Pacquiao! :-(

7. San Miguel Beer!!! Heineken was good, but there's nothin like good 'ol SMB pa rin ;-)

7. My family and friends (of course :-)

Definitely missed Manila and all its chaos, but HCMC and Vietnam will definitely have a special place in my heart. Will have to go back soon there anyway, for business (and a little bit of pleasure!) I'm grateful for the opportunity and the experience to have gone to a foreign land, it indeed open up my eyes a bit to the world and its possibilities. There's so much out there to learn and grow from, both personally and professionally. At least I'm one step closer to my dream of travelling all over Asia before I'm 30... Europe after, of course.

I'll visit Indonesia soon before the end of the year, and China in 2006 (cross my fingers! Hope I'll push through!) For the meantime... Tiger Airways, here I come :-)

AIESEC @ Bora

Work Hard, Party Harder! Bikinis and Beers all around with AIESEC Friends at Bora :-)

B O R A !!!

Paraw Beach Front :-)

After ten looooooooooong years (not kidding!) finally made my way back to Bora. DEVCON was going to be hosted by UPD there, and this time I'm finally looking forward to being an alumni and enjoying the beach all day all night! mwahahhahahahaha :-P

Friday, May 20
After being stuck at the terminal for what seemed like hours and only Pringles Cheese as lunch, our delayed Asian Spirit flight finally made its boarding call. One turbulent, sleepless hour later, I finally can see the white sandy beaches of Caticlan! :-)

We rode a trike to the port where Cris and I met again with Kristine Largo, got to the boat and rode to station 1. Hannah Hotel, where we were staying, was a cozy place just behind the beach front hotels, but we got a good room (all 7 of us squeezed in it!) where we met with Ding, Chouie, Anne and Rowel... the seven of us partying as the "oldies" in aiesec... :-) miss all my beach buds!

After a cutie handed us a flyer, we quickly headed to the Pearl of the Pacific beachfront where Kevyn Lettau was giving a free concert! Jonah's milkshakes in hand, we crooned away to "Sun Light... oh sunlight" songs until sunset, walking away with one of our memorables quotes from the show: "If you're thirsty, that means you're already dehydrated"! Harhar! I changed my top and had early drinks at Paraw (our unofficial hangout for the rest of our stay at Bora) with the trainees... dancing with Brazilian guys on ledges, then finally bringing the house down with all aiesecers delegates... all 97 of us! Parteeeeh Time!

Saturday, May 21

Trainees and alumni joint forces for island-hopping and snorkeling along crocodile island... my time to sunbathe and get that tan line finally! My defective snorkeling gear took out all the fun of feeding the fishies, so I chose to watch them from the boat instead... It's ok, took lots of cute pictures anyway...

Last dip with the girls before heading out to Station 2 for South Border Concert, an attempt to have a spa massage, then party away again at Paraw where I had heart-to-heart bonding sesh with Drew :-) Drunken Cris and I had to take Ding to "authentic" Forest Hills (with authentic pre-ordered animal sounds!) before snoozing away ourselves...

Sunday, May 22
Had the best breakfast ever! My choice of 2 scrambled eggs, sausages, pancakes, hash brown, and garlic rice with fresh juice! Jsut the way I like it... Yumyum!

Walked along the beach with stroll master Rowel before we finalized our discharge reports to deliver to the plenary that evening. Legislation took about five hours, while Rowel, Anne and I drowned our waiting time on that mysterious blue drink and more yosi. At three am, finally, "may beer na!".. like kids we shouted in glee! Ding, Cris and I judged Bb. Devcon, as tradition, and got ourselves tipsy again until sunrise where we took loads of pictures again by the shore... :-)

Sunday, May 23

My last attempt at a complete stroll with Rowel and last-minute shopping never pulled through coz we slept until lunchtime! By then, we had to check out and plug APXLDS at closing plenary...

Said last goodbyes and rode the boat back with Monna and JP to Seair where our plane awaited to take us back to Manila...

--------------

Admittedly, I feel like the four days were such a blast but there were things I wished I did: (1) get visible tan lines! (mine disappeared after only a day! aaaargh!); (2) go shopping for P10 beads! (3) ride the banana boat or the flying fish; (4) get a henna tattoo (even just the cutesy little butterfly one... naaah, was too scared kse); (5) go night swimming; and (6) walk from station 1 to station 3 (do 10 laps like Rowel! Harhar!)

Oh well, I guess that means I just have to go back SOON to get those things done then! I miss the beach, spent more time by the sand than the water this time, because of the algae also... Promised Nate I'll go with him this time... Oh yeah, saw JC also, that was one of the things that made the trip really worthwhile :-)

Reunion trip with Cris, Ding, Anne, Kristine, Rowel, Chouie and me already in the works... can't wait to see Bora again....

Life's a Beach :-)

Instant Blog

Was staring out in(to) space this morning, trying to mentally tick off my to-do agenda while obviously envying my whole fam preparing for the beach today...

And i thought that maybe I should just get myself a voice recorder, and my own transcriptionist... *hint hint*i think i know someone like that.. para instant blog na and I dont have to go online just to type in random weird stuff like these...

Hmm....just a thought... :)

Happy Birthday ER!

It's ER's birthday today... too bad I can't greet him coz I dont have his number anymore...

Not that I didnt try finding it, contacted Noel, one of our common friends but he doesn't have it either...

Maybe it's really meant to be that I wont be able to really get in touch with him anymore.. some things should remain in the past where they belong... even "that damn parking lot" has been renovated now....all I have to remember him by are mere memories...and a twinge of regret...

Still, thinking about him makes me smile, albeit wistfully... I hope he's doing ok, wherever he is... :)

On Javi

Met with Javi yesterday in halfmoon (like I've been trying to meet all my friends there, promotions tlga :), and the guy is glowing. He smiles more often... it suits him well. He really seems happier than the last time I met him. I'm envious actually.. he's happy because he has all the time now to do what he wants before settling down to work...learn Chinese and go to China (which is both what we dreamed of doing before, go to an AIESEC traineeship there, but learn the basics first here), read all those branding and business books lined up in the to-do list, join seminars, lose weight! All those things I really really want to do right now but can't because of work obviously....

I missed talking to Javi. He's the one who keeps me up my toes, especially when we were still LCPs. There was pressure for me to do exceptionally well, because it seems he always watches what I do. When we did Coaching for ateneo, I was mostly coaching just him, not the whole team. Our talks would go from purely AIESEC, to business, to what we both wanted to beyond our AIESEC careers... He was one who was so principled that he was always able to see beyond the operational requirements, but the vision and the big picture--why we do what we do and what values we should emulate to the members as well. I miss his idealism and zest, often misunderstood by many because he often keeps to himself. But to the rest of us who are lucky enough to know the real him, Javi sure is a one-of-a-kind individual...

In a way, I owe him thanks... He was able to inspire me, even in the briefest moment, to indulge and enjoy life more... Not to be drowned totally in work and in the harsh cynics and bureacuracy we encounter everyday, but to actually pursue those dreams we made back when we still had that youthful idealism...

Cheers, Javi! See you at our AIESEC dinner soon... :-)

Friendster Blog

Weird... weird... weird...

Kept mumbling that for several seconds while I tried to configure my friendster blog. Yep, finally joined the bandwagon and tried to create another one (as if I can't manage three enough db?) It's settings are not too user-friendly. And I actually find it stupid to "announce" the blog to all your first degree friends when there's nothing in there yet anyway... wala lang.

If I tried to link about everyone who created a blog through friendster, I'd have about 100++ links in this blog now. But that's useless anyway, all I get are empty pages of people who wanted to try something new but failed to follow through with it...

Oh well... no harm in trying I guess... I hope my own "announcement" was cancelled before I clicked "send"...

Oh yeah, if you're curious... the link is http://gladaxjudai.blogs.friendster.com/my_blog. For those who might be bored and want to see it... don't say I didn't warn you....wala tlga laman, pramis!!!!

Animal Farm: Trip to Avilon Zoo

My Pet Eagle... Field Trip to Avilon Zoo :)

Early morning, my Dad had his "bright idea": let's bring the whole fam to Avilon Zoo! Oh well...since we were never really at home all at the same time, and it was once in a blue moon that my Dad wanted to go on those long road trips, so we decided to pack a quick lunch basket, my cutie safari attire and headed on to Montalban, Rizal to meet 'em animals....

No one among us was a navigator, because we didn't really have the faintest clue where it was! So we asked random people for directions, looked for "this way" signs, and at last we found the gates to the 7.5 hectare zoo... Felt like twilight zone for a minute there.. the gates looked like Jurassic Park's!

The zoo was well-kept, very clean... similar to a park or even Enchanted Kingdom. Our tour guide Mark was cutie!!! Haha.. flirting with parental guidance nman eh ;-) After a really really quick picnic lunch, we walked on foot with the tour for two hours at 1 pm! Scorching heat I know!... I enjoyed mostly the birds which they had the most number of (Hence the name "Avilon Zoo"). Got even really close to a bird of prey! My dad's favorite was couple of mating tigers... inspired by Felina I guess! Haha :-)

It was really hot trip, but I learned a lot of scientific names and animal trivia for the day. I'm glad I went, can't wait to see the aquariums they'll be building soon though... Maybe we can bring AIESEC trainees there one of these days ;-)

Intrapinoys Punta Fuego-Sonya's Trippin!

Intrapinoy Beach Babes.. Haha :P

Went to Punta Fuego today with Intrapinoys... mega fun! The infinity pool was sooo soothing, and the water was lukewarm, just as I like it. Got sunburned though, my face was all red from all that frisbee at the beach, and i didn't even get my tan lines! Grrrr! Ish okay i guess, all that beach and sun was still a welcome break from the usual office work...

Ate dinner at sonya's in "yatyagat", as Kiko calls it, my first time as well to frequent the place! It was soooo nice! Proposal place tlga. I believe "organic" was the word of the day--everywhere bloomed wild flowers, and they had little beds with canopies on hidden snooks and corners, super romantic Ü We ate buffet of salad and pasta (their only menu for three years!) and true to their nature, everything was organic food! Super memorable, would probably take Eda there on her birthday for our usual pasta-and-salad diet! (If only I can remember how to get there db?) Ü

After dinner snacks at hotshots again, my brother's loving the crispy burger so much he wants to eat it everyday! Haha Ü Food Galore tlga, pero really fun. Hope we can do this again next time... unles it's really Intrapreneur's Extreme Adventure Sports next summer... Haha Ü

Shabby Chic Bed&Breakfast Nookie at Sonya's :-)

Azurris and Anton Adventures at Ponti!

Anton, Eda and Me at Ponti :-)

One night of Eastwood trippin' and psychic readings (which was NOT even close to my expectations) ended up in a surprise spree at our fave hangout: Il Ponticello at Salcedo Village in Makati. Road trip to the max, even Eda said that we crossed 4 cities just to satisfy our momentary spontaneous mood....

Ponti's sooo very homey. Rene, our favorite homie, greeted us (that person is truly the place's asset! He knows everyone by name and by their drink!) and seated us at the smoking section (yep, had a few sticks here and there)... while Eda splurged some more and called one of our fave guys as well. Anton came in a few minutes earlier, still looking for his "kanin", and both of them immediately launched into those animated conversations. I, for the meantime, covered up and enjoyed my sunburn drink and their Über expensive yosi... Minutes later, high from alcohol and nicotine, Anton offered to escort us back to my place (because my driver was beginning to giggle a wee bit too much!) ... What a sweetie!!! Ten Thousand Brownie Points from me!... but we lost him en route to a creepy beerhouse for a quick trip to the loo! Too much azzurris kse! Haha Ü

Was tipsy and tired to pack for punta fuego trip, but had a great great time! Ponti ulit!!! Gotta get my blue card soon :-)

Davao Memories :)

It’s been how many days since I last came from Davao… and what an experience it was! Admittedly, it’s my first time to travel alone anywhere… even if my boss and his wife was there, they left earlier and they were in a separate room. My first time to also enjoy hotel life without a roommate, and while I lavished in the freedom… it was an eye-opener as well…

I would always be grateful to ADDU for making me feel welcome in Davao, I would have been a lost, confused foreigner if it weren’t for them… I’m doubly blessed that my distributors also extended their hospitality to me (it pays to really know a local when you travel!), and I’m certain that I will return the favor to them once they visit us in Manila as well…

In more ways than one, I think I left my heart in Davao City... I've never felt more at home anywhere than I did at that place. My hotel was not the best, but the people were most accommodating... the food was cheap and bottomless! The mall had a food court in every floor, and I once ate four dinners at one seating! Hehe :) And I found someone special there as well...

Sadly though, that part of my trip I have to really leave behind... my heart still feels that longing for him, but my eyes were opened to the truth that he and I will truly never be... no matter how much you feel for the person, sometimes you know in your gut that the relationship will go nowhere, and the guy is out of your league...it hurts to face the truth, but at least for a few moments, he was mine... and the memories are all I have to savor what we had that night...

For now, I still have this stupid punto as proof of my stay in Davao... kapoy gyud! Life goes on I guess. I don't know when I'll be back... when work or life would permit me to fly there again (hopefully my flight won't be delayed anymore!) hopefully sooner than later. By then I would have learned my Bisaya well, and I'll be happier, or more at peace, to face him again... =)

POGS Davao Team @ Jack's Ridge, April 2005 

JOhn Paul II... We Love You... 

Tara FT SEring's Between Dinner and the Morning After

After a long hiatus from the shelves, Summit books are back with their newest baby: Between Dinner and the Morning After by Tara FT Sering. I was so excited to get a copy of this book, knowing finally that cosmo editors reversed back to their women writers after Vince's Life, and convinced that this would definitely be a good read based on Sering's previous work with Summit. I know that growing up, my choice of literature should have matured with age as well... but what can I say? Summit books remain to be my guilty pleasure, apart from my Sweet Valley days and historical romances saga-ish collections...

Disappointingly, however, I was not even able to finish the book before I finally dozed off. The author was for the most part trying to be witty but ended up merely whining and justify whining, while moving from current story to multiple flashbacks... I was bored and confused!!! And the ending even was nooooot satisfying (considering I'm a BIG ending fan--that's the make-or-break of the story for me!) . Sering failed miserably in tying up the characters and the plot and the resolution...it was like reading a series of blogs, with no coherence whatsoever.

I hope that Summit would be able to release instead the second installment to Vince's Life... the lesser of two evils.

For another review of the book (yet with the same passionate furor), check out my friend's site.

ME List... wala lang :-)

Got this from someone's site while i was blog-hoppin:

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Copy this whole list into your journal.

2. Bold the things that are true about you.

3. Whatever you don't bold are false

01. When I was younger I made some bad decisions.

02. I don't watch much TV these days - couch potato all the way :P

03. I love psychodelic mushrooms. - meron ba nito?

04. I love sleeping

05. I have loads of books.

06. I once slept in a bathroom

07. I love playing video games - thanks to Julius!!

08. I adore marijuana

09. I watch porn movies

10. I watch them with my father – eww!!!

11. I like sharks

12. I love spiders

13. I was born without hair and I still have no hair

14. I like George Bush - I like Michael Moore more...

15. I am cool – haha! Of course! Love your own =P

16. I have changed a lot mentally over the last year

17. I have a jacuzzi and a Porsche

18. I have a lot to learn

19. I carry my knife everywhere

20. I can be really really smart - I think so… sometimes ;)

21. I've never broken someone's bones – I broke my own! Haha :D

22. I have a secret - Everyone does...

23. I hate snow

25. Punk rock rules

26. I hate Bill Gates

27. I love Chinese food - everything chinese...

28. I would hate to be famous

29. I am so not a morning person

30. I wear glasses

31. I don't need glasses

32. I have potential – a lot… panay potential na nga lang ata! :P

33. I'm pure Japanese

34. My legs are two different sizes

35. I have a twin

36. I wear a padded bra sometimes.

37. I can ramble on about absolutely nothing.

38. I'm left-handed

39. I hate llamas, but I'm one of them – huh?!?!

40. I don't like horror movies

41. I suck at climbing, but I love it anyway

42. People hate me usually

43. I love pop music

44. I hardly ever go to bed before midnight – before yes, nocturnal by choice, but now I’m early2bed!

45. I hate parking fines.

46. I know the national anthem of my country by heart

47. I know more than three languages

48. I can spend too much time on the computer. - duh!!!

49. I often want to throw out the computer in a window

50. I live on a ground floor.

51. I don't like chocolate

52. I'd like to be more original

53. I've lied - lahat nman eh

54. Cocks are my favorite birds – huh?!?!?!?! Hahahahaha!!!!

55. I want to conquer the world

56. I wonder what happens when I die

57. I've read all books about Harry Potter

58. I love my dog(s)!

59. I love to exercise – wish I still have gym, maybe next year!

60. I hate chemistry with a passion and math, too!

61. I love to write but I wish I could be as interesting as some people

62. I love the nightlife.

63. I hate going to class. – Nerd ako eh! I like class, I like seminars… :P

64. I am afraid to die

65. I hate dish washing with a passion

66. My hair is long, brown, and incredibly curly – not anymore! “shinampoo ko lang yan” :P

67. My nails are nine inch long – witch?!?!

68. My favorite color is black – purple!

69. I like to sleep on the floor

70. I am hopeless at cooking

71. I sucked my thumb when I was little

72. I should be doing something else rather than doing this

73. I am online a lot

74. I hate government – yup, bureaucracy really sucks…

75. I don't have a girlfriend/boyfriend – yet! Haha…

76. I'm too nice for my own good

77. I love to read, I read as much as I can

78. I don't trust newspapers

79. I like debating

80. I live in a wagon

81. I clean my room once a month

82. I'm scared of american fast food

83. I have a third eye

84. I love Mozambique - ?

85. I don't trust any religion

86. I used to play with barbies only because all the other girls were doing it

87. I wanted to be a super hero when I was little – artista actually :P

88. I like listening to wind chimes

89. I'm very disorganized

90. My hair is long and straight

91. I earn a lot - would like to... really soon :)

92. I don't like spicy food

93. I keep a diary – blog will do?

94. I can't do cartwheels

95. I can be very lazy

96. I'm sarcastic more often than not

97. I think my hair can be annoying

98. I could be sensitive

99. I love being "ab-normal" – most of the time! OC-Neurotic paranoia.. best feeling in the world!

99. I love being "ab-normal" – most of the time! OC-Neurotic paranoia.. best feeling in the world!

Bonding with MCP Cris and MCP Halmen =) 

Havaianas Hunt!

I'm so frustrated! aaargh! Went with eds all psyched up to get moi a pair of havaianas... but when we got there, it was all sold out! Bad trip! I mean, there were still some pairs there, but i didnt like 'em much, so I ended up drowning my sorrows over loads of SPAM... hmmm..interesting yng waffle dog-ish look alike, but I still crave for my slippers! It's just sad they don't take reservations anywhere.. will try to visit rockwell and shang soon... I vow to get my own before march is over... will bring it to Davao! Samal island here we come! :-)

Congrats GIONNA!

Gionna Cabrera (center)

It was BB. Pilipinas Coronation Night last saturday at Araneta Colisuem (yup, same time Eda and I were there!)... and surprisingly, my batchmate from HS was crowned as BB. Pilipinas Universe!

I was happy for her, though I only have a vague memory of what she really looked like in HS. We were not close, nor were we classmates even in any sectiona lll throughout my St.Paul life. Interestingly enough, she was not the first among our batch to vie for the crown--Angela Silverio was also a finalist and was awarded Ms. Congeniality years back.

With Gionna now a titlist, I sometimes wonder about our different lives... all of us started the same way but I feel like we're separated by different planets, let alone different universes. I can't even believe that I went to the same school with her... I'm the ugly duckling compared to what she has achieved now!

I wish her all the best though... I'll be watching the pageant from cable in Bangkok this summer. Good Luck Gionna! =)

Cubao Cubao!

Eda and Me on our Cubao Adventure =)

Super adventure last Saturday! Eds and I went to National main store, the four-storey one. Amazingly enough, it was first time to really browse all the books there... I only go to that branch to pick up a textbook I reserved... When I got to the top floor, I was really in a daze! It was Disneyland for BOOKS!!! The books were really cheap, around PhP100 to 200 for the paperback, and PhP300++ for the hardbound, because they were already second-hand. The quality is still good though, almost brand new, so it was a really good buy. After a basketfull of books and difficult decision-making, I settled for the Tao of Pooh (a book Ive always wanted to read), and Eda bought her own copy of Memoirs of a Geisha.

Food trip afterwards at KFC, MCDO, and Go Nuts! Fast food galore, perfect for dieters no? Hehe =P Dinner was worth four hours! Kikay shopping after at SM.. lip gloss galore... Hmm, will have to find my own loyal brand for lipstains and lip gloss; I only have clinique to rely on for now...

Laugh trip all the way! I really enjoyed Cubao with Eds because I think we were game to anything, and I felt like we were able to accomplish a lot even with tight budgets, and only train commutes to and from the mall area...

Next time, adventure ulit.. Divi nman! hehe =D

MRT Panic!

Rode the MRT from Ayala to GMA last night, was supposed to go home when suddenly the train stopped midway from Boni and Shaw. Something smelled funny... literally. Apparently, the coach car I was riding had burnt some cable wires on the way from Makati... it was awful! The woman beside me was already praying the rosary, while I was busy memorizing the emergency instructions by the door.... After an hour, they finally fixed it. It was the longest train ride I've ever had!

There are some things we really take for granted, like riding safely in trains that might go off any second because of malfunction... sometimes, we can't do anything about it, but we might as well be cautious and careful always. Which also reminds me, I should really bring my rosary next time I ride....

DAYS staff meeting at uap =) 

DAYS High

Went to DAYS last weekend, my 4th weekend staffing after being a participant. It was my first time to staff as a head, fiscal to be more exact, and the challenge both scared and excited me at the same time. Though I'm used to being the front person for finance in aiesec all my life, it was my first time for DAYS, and i was quite a bit unsure on how to approach strangers, asking, well more like begging for donations of any amount, for the community fund. It was weird, when at the end of the day, everyone kind of knew who I was already (in a not so good way), because now they knew who to avoid and keep their wallets from for the rest of the weekend! hehe =P In the end, I think it was a worthy cause.. we were able to raise around 6,500 pesos from the visitors, staffers and sponsors who came to Bambi's batch...an increase from the previous collections. Thanks Kuya Jess! I hope it would be more than enough for the next batch, I'm staffing again, but I'll be a sponsor this time for Coni Ü

This is one of those DAYS weekends that still gets me high... "Basta Ikaw Lord"... but for some reason, there as something special and magical about those 3 days I spent at Pollock. It was the first weekend that I spent a lot of time in Disco, really pouring my heart into that room... between my sisters and mommy rach, and with my aiesec family... and a lot of vigil time also alone with just Kuya Jess. There were lots of personal issues I lifted to Him in that room (lots of tissues spent as well), and now I feel somewhat light and relieved. Hmm... I can't say that I'm not troubled anymore, but somehow miraculously, I found comfort in just praying and talking to Him, knowing that somehow He can hear me and lift all those troubles away, even for just mere moments....

I guess I've always been more of a spiritual person than a religious one. I don't believe much in ceremonies that I've been accustomed to all my life, thanks to both sides of the family being strictly parishioners and supporters of the Church and its practices. I do thank DAYS for strengthening my faith, but I guess there would always be that continuous skepticism on some practices of the Church that up to now I only receive with accept with mute resignation. My enlightenment always comes during those silent moments that I pray to Him, and that is one of the reasons I miss DAYS also, when I can just go to the Disco where I can find solace to be myself and reflect. It's hard to come back to reality after DAYS high, when I know I'll be facing all my issues again.... but I know that because of Mommy Rach's talk about loving hearts, Jess was giving me a sign. I know now what to do because I can feel his presence still. I'll just have to keep that personal "disco" with me, until the next batch again... Ü

UPD Alumni Dinner

Went to an alumni party last night for UPD.. was fun because I was able to meet Agnes and Ana again, whom I haven't met for the longest time! I know in speeches I always say that "I'm already old.. I have "anaks" and "apos" already in AIESEC", but attending that party as an alumni made that feeling more real than ever. Talangang matanda na ko sa AIESEC. There were lots of newies that I didn't know anymore, and the more common question was: "How are you guys doing these days", and it felt weird and relieving to be asking that question as a concerned alumni (read: outsider)

It's true what they say: the longer you stay, the harder it is to let go. Yup, I have the symptoms. Even attending the induction party and turning over the torches still feels surreal for me. Until March 31st is over, I guess, I'm still holding on to this post and to all the free food and all the exchange problems as well. Hmm... enjoy till the party lasts right? I still have APXLDS anyway. But I'll enjoy myself in Devcon for sure, one discharge report and I'm all set for the beach... BORA here I come! Haha =)

Passport Day!

Finally got my PASSPORT!!! After ten million years, I finally got the urge to actually compile my requirements, submit it to DFA and claim it.. all in a week! Bilis no? (I hope I can help Eda as well, haba tlga ng pila sa DFA... miles and miles and miles of waiting applicants.. tsk tsk.. major bonding adventure ito!)

Feels good to actually accomplish something I've been wanting to do for a looooooong time. That's one more item to cross on my to-do list for this year (see archives under January's New Years Resoulations for 2005).. next stop: driver's license! Coolness! =P

Courtesy Lanes at DFA

Courtesy Lanes at DFA

After 10 thousand years... finally found the time to apply for my passport at DFA! After putting it off for months and months now, I'm happy I was able to file it already. Getting and compiling the requirements was quite easy given the "network" Batas has, and submitting it to DFA (at "courtesy lanes" no less) was also a piece of cake.

Tito Erning was an expert at dealing with DFA officials already.. he can maneouver the ins and outs of all the windows and offices with his eyes closed! All we did was give him the papers, sit and wait to be called... sobrang walang hassle!

I couldn't say the same for the rest who were applying though. Even at courtesy lane, it was still chaotic--there were no queues, and each applicant was trying to plead with the OIC to accept their documents (somehow, a lot of them had delinquencies still, esp at the Diplomat window). Much more with those lined up downstairs, waiting from 6am to have their papers authenticated. There were miles and miles of people wanting to go abroad... I haven't seen that the last time I went with my mom to get her passport (I was grade 5 then, but still...)

It's always sad to blame the system for inefficiencies like this. Now that more Filipinos want to go abroad, there is much demand for their papers to be processed immediately, and with less hassle and costs as possible. Even if there are so many fixers lined up, it would take you around a week or two just to get your paper to the window and have it filed. Add that to how many more weeks to claim your passport.. it's a wonder this government still can accomplish so much. We would have said that the DFA should put in more people to make the processing faster and the lines shorter, but with budget deficit issues and oil price hikes and the VAT increase still to be resolved... For the meantime, I think this is one request that would be left for another pile, and not even courtesy lanes can do its magic this time...

Artificial Leg

While I was meditating aimlessly on the back of the FX on my way to Rustans Makati to meet with Eda, a man struggled to get on the vehicle also, pleading with another passenger to exchange seats with him because of his artificial leg. I tried not to look but I felt pity for the guy. Somehow, I felt guilty (because I felt luckier than him that my leg was not amputated in any way, despite my recurring knee mishaps), but also blessed at the same time.

When he got off, I said a silenet prayer. May God bless that man, because despite his physical incapabilities, he still was quite a jolly fellow... he was smiling and whistling all the way down Buendia...

Pasta & Salad at Italianni's

Carbonara... Last Call!

Had dinner at Italianni's Tomas Morato yesterday... yummy! Was so hungry coz I wasnt able to grab breakfast nor lunch the whole day.. this was my first meal! Devoured Sicilian Chicken Salad and Carbonara... Sobrang Saraaaaap! Of course, can't hurt that the waiter was really warm and accommodating as well... (ok ok, so he was cute! Guilty! Sheesh.. I really have a thing for this no? haha =P)

Was really full by the end of the meal, everyone at the table was, that we can't finish anymore the last bite of carbonara... I wonder, is it really a Filipino trait? We leave just that measly piece on our plates (in this case, this small forkful of pasta)... others find it an annoying habit, thinking of other kids who actually haven't eaten for more than a day or worse, a week...

I wanted to eat, I really did.. but my stomach and spirit was weak. Hmm.. next time, I vow to be more "sensitive" and always leave my plate clean (except when buffets! hehe)

The Aviator

The Aviator

Watched the Aviator tonight with Ma... all three hours worth of it. Was actually anxious to see it coz I wanted to know what kind of chances it had gunning for the big ones on Monday's Oscar Night. At the middle of it, I was kind of bored already, and wished Howard Hughes dead just to get the movie over it. Too bad he lived through all the planes that flew throughout the film... Mababaw comment: I was tired of seeing Leo's eyebrows together all throughout the film! How can he be so goddamn angry all the time?!?!

Ma liked it though, I'm glad she did coz it was my treat after all (money well-spent I guess, at least for her!). My bet? It has good chances to win. Although I'm still rooting for Hillary Swank vs. Cate Blanchett (even with her uncanny portrayal of Kate Hepburn), and Jamie Foxx over Leo. Kudos to Martin Scorsese though, I hope he gets the gold this time. And I'm crossing my fingers for Best Picture for this one: they're the best so far out of their contemporaries.. even against personal favorite Closer.

All bets are off on Monday! Can't wait--Oscar fever here we go! =D

Watched The Phantom of the Opera yesterday with Coni (yup, our first date movie!) and now, I can't get this song out of my head! It's always been a favorite, no wonder I cried during the movie when it played... poor phantom! hehehe.. Enjoy!

ALL I ASK OF YOU

No more talk of darkness
Forget these wide eyed fears
I'm here, nothing can harm you
My words will warm and calm you

Let me be your freedom
Let daylight dry your tears
I'm here, with you, beside you
To guard you and to guide you

Say you love me every waking moment
Turn my head with talk of summer time
Say you need me with you now and always
Promise me that all you say is true

That's all I ask of you
Let me be your shelter
Let me be your light
You're safe, no one will find you
Your fears are far behind you

All I want is freedom
A world with no more night
And you, always beside me
To hold me and to hide me
Then say you'll share with me one love, one lifetime

Let me lead you from your solitude
Say you'll want me with you here, beside you
Anywhere you go, let me go too
That's all I ask of you

cibo! 

Motown at Big Dome

Valentine's Day for me was spent reorienting with what my mom's generation enjoyed as pop music--Motown that is. We caught the concert at the Big Dome, and not surprisingly, most of the people in line were also my mom's age. 60's music enjoyed by the Baby Boomers, and even those born before those years. As I tried desperately to remember some semblance of a familiar tune, I found myself dancing to the beat of the back-up "chu-wari-wup" dancers. "My Girl" was my favorite of them all (it was the only song I knew! Thanks to the movie!) Ü

I admit, the Supremes, the Temptations, and the Miracles, were not the original group, but they had still the spirit and the heart to commemorate those wonderful songs that were truly reflections of the good ol times many decades ago. And as I look around at the daddies and mommies enjoying their Valentine dates and lip-synching with those popular jukebox songs, I smile fondly at them. At one moment, I wish I was also born in that era... oh well, wishful thinking Ü

The Office

Wow! It's been a suuuuper looooooong time since I've written in here... things have been so crazy lately (come to think of it, life has been always crazy right?) that I barely have time to dream about what else needs to be done the next day... yup, it's official: I definitely am married to my work now... No life whatsoever beyond it! Hehehehe Ü

No complaints here though... I know I always whine to say "I'm so tired", "I've been walking all day", "Meeting na naman?!?!"... but deep inside, I am actually enjoying being able to drive myself up the wall with deadlines and milestones to achieve... Productivity is my main motivation these days... So much motivation in fact, that I now prefer to stay in the office 8-5 than my usual flexi-time-come-whenever-you-feel-like-it schedule... Is that weird?

Like today for instance, I'm at the office working on emails particularly because the computer at home is broken (again!)... am seriously considering going to the office tomorrow to work... Eek! The Office is beginning to feel like home! am officially a workaholic now!

Hmm... better get back to work... ano na nga ba kailangan kong gawin???