The morning of 2008 started with me waking up from a dream. Just like my other dreams, it had a celebrity guest appearance. Heart Evangelista and Jericho Rosales were in it. Hehehe. But my dream was no love story. No Panday battling fire-breathing dragons to save his damsel in distress. And there was no Eden waiting for her knight in maroon sando. Nyahaha.
My 2nd year higschool classmates and my officemates were out on a summer trip. I was snapping pictures of myself when I captured a shot where my dead grandfather appeared beside me. He was wearing a blue, white and green striped shirt, just like what my little brother wore when he was like two years old. But what is really worth mentioning is that in the photo, he was wearing a smile. Probably the happiest smile I've ever seen in my life. I was showing it to my friends when I saw him walking towards the restroom. I came up to him and asked why he showed himself to me. He simply smiled. I said, "Sige po, mag-CR na muna kayo." like he really needed to. Ehe. When he got out, he told me, "Dumalaw lang ako. And tell Heart to be careful."
Then, I woke up from the sound of my brothers playing Final Fantasy. I tried going back to sleep, tried going back to the dream. But words were already screaming in my mind that hushing them down was as impossible as Manny Pacquiao winning the Best Actor award in the Metro Manila Film Festival. I just had to roll off my bed and write everything down. I hate it when that happens. Oh well. Going back...
In that dream, I saw my grandfather again the way I remember how he looked. I heard him again the way I remember how he sounded. And I felt him again the way I remember the warmth of his presence.
I miss you, Lolo. And I'm still looking forward to that day.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Monday, December 31, 2007
Coming Clean
This is the last time that I'm going to write about this. I know it would involve me swallowing a lot of very bitter-tasting pride. I know I might be putting someone in a bad light. I know that some things might change. What's even worse is that I dunno the eyes who would be reading this. (Though I would really appreciate a line or two from you nameless lurkers who show up in my traffic log.) But fuck it, here goes.
First off, why the need, you may ask. One, I hate the thought of someone believing that he or she is holding all the aces in the deck. I don't want someone having that kind of power over me. So I am getting off the leash.
Two, after reading the article entitled "A Rescue From Hell By Jesus Christ", I realized how much I wanted to experience Heaven. I would never, ever do myself in, of course. But the thought of dying and being with these angels, these magnificent beings, going back to the Source, being one with the Source, feeling His Love so unconditional and pure and all that... I dunno. Suddenly, I just wanted to take Death's boney hand in mine. Or to be ready, at least. This, being the first step.
Lastly, I wanna be worthy of people's trust. I, for one, find it difficult to trust other people. I am a cynic, most of the time. Maybe that's why I value promises so much. Coz somehow, it gives me the assurance that I need. The same is true when I make my promises. But what I want now is for these people to trust my word. With or without the promises.
Ok, enough with the introduction. These are my confessions... (Nyaha. Parang kanta lang.)
1. We were never a couple. Friends thought that we were, my family thought that we were, we made them think that we were. But if truth be told, there was never an "us". It was such a pathetic lie, I know. And what makes it heinous is that I actually believed it. We almost had each other. But almost is far from reality. Almost is incomplete, unclear and revocable. Almost just doesn't count.
2. I wasn't on the rocks with my ex. I never did the "tumikim ng ibang ulam" or anything in that context. In the first place, I have no ex and no ulam to speak of. Though I'd like to believe that it was help given in good conscience, it was my mistake for allowing another person to put words into my mouth. I had a hundred and one reasons to turn you down but all you got was a pack of fabricated lies. I was given more than one chance to rectify that but I never took it. Instead, I dragged on, played along and added more lies in order to justify the story. Because I was afraid. Because I was a wimp. And a pathetic one at that.
Well, that's it. I dunno if I could get by with a simple apology but it's the only thing left for me to say. I'm sorry. And I'm saying it in the truest sense of the word.
This is where I end. This is where I begin.
First off, why the need, you may ask. One, I hate the thought of someone believing that he or she is holding all the aces in the deck. I don't want someone having that kind of power over me. So I am getting off the leash.
Two, after reading the article entitled "A Rescue From Hell By Jesus Christ", I realized how much I wanted to experience Heaven. I would never, ever do myself in, of course. But the thought of dying and being with these angels, these magnificent beings, going back to the Source, being one with the Source, feeling His Love so unconditional and pure and all that... I dunno. Suddenly, I just wanted to take Death's boney hand in mine. Or to be ready, at least. This, being the first step.
Lastly, I wanna be worthy of people's trust. I, for one, find it difficult to trust other people. I am a cynic, most of the time. Maybe that's why I value promises so much. Coz somehow, it gives me the assurance that I need. The same is true when I make my promises. But what I want now is for these people to trust my word. With or without the promises.
Ok, enough with the introduction. These are my confessions... (Nyaha. Parang kanta lang.)
1. We were never a couple. Friends thought that we were, my family thought that we were, we made them think that we were. But if truth be told, there was never an "us". It was such a pathetic lie, I know. And what makes it heinous is that I actually believed it. We almost had each other. But almost is far from reality. Almost is incomplete, unclear and revocable. Almost just doesn't count.
2. I wasn't on the rocks with my ex. I never did the "tumikim ng ibang ulam" or anything in that context. In the first place, I have no ex and no ulam to speak of. Though I'd like to believe that it was help given in good conscience, it was my mistake for allowing another person to put words into my mouth. I had a hundred and one reasons to turn you down but all you got was a pack of fabricated lies. I was given more than one chance to rectify that but I never took it. Instead, I dragged on, played along and added more lies in order to justify the story. Because I was afraid. Because I was a wimp. And a pathetic one at that.
Well, that's it. I dunno if I could get by with a simple apology but it's the only thing left for me to say. I'm sorry. And I'm saying it in the truest sense of the word.
This is where I end. This is where I begin.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
The Opposite of Love Is Not Hate
The opposite of Love is not Hate. Hate is Love pulled inside out. Hate is Love gone bad. Hate, just like Love, is a passionate emotion. So why bother hating when you no longer love? Well then, if the opposite of Love is not Hate, then what is?
The mere sight of your name used to stir a roller coaster of emotions inside me. Feelings of happiness, of doubt, of fear, of sadness, of anger, and of pain - just to mention a few, have gained hold of me everyfuckintime. But for the first time in a very long time, I saw your name again and I felt nothing. Your name now is no more than just a bunch of letters put together. Your name now means nothing.
I have loved you. And I am done hating you. Now, I don't give a shit.
The opposite of Love is not Hate. It's indifference.
The mere sight of your name used to stir a roller coaster of emotions inside me. Feelings of happiness, of doubt, of fear, of sadness, of anger, and of pain - just to mention a few, have gained hold of me everyfuckintime. But for the first time in a very long time, I saw your name again and I felt nothing. Your name now is no more than just a bunch of letters put together. Your name now means nothing.
I have loved you. And I am done hating you. Now, I don't give a shit.
The opposite of Love is not Hate. It's indifference.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Ye Shiver Me Timbers!
Last night, we had our pirate-slash-cowboy-slash-indian-themed Christmas party at the penthouse of Tektite East Tower. I really had no plans to dress up for the party until Roney suggested that I wear something black with a big X mark on it and be the treasure in a map. Hehehe. While looking for a black top, I saw this pirate-inspired shirt from Lee. As soon as it fitted, without thinking twice, I made my way towards the counter and bought it. Then, I found myself looking for accessories to match the attire. Hahaha. Talk about last minute preparations!
Just like last year, we had to do a presentation for the inter-department competition. The concept was finalized last Wednesday, I think. And the rehearsals began last Thursday. In spite of an obvious lack of practice, we still came in second! Woohoo! ^_^
And just because Mr. Watanabe's baby daughter is really really very cute, I'm posting her photos here too! Hehehe.
Merry Christmas, asses of the world! ^_^
Just like last year, we had to do a presentation for the inter-department competition. The concept was finalized last Wednesday, I think. And the rehearsals began last Thursday. In spite of an obvious lack of practice, we still came in second! Woohoo! ^_^
And just because Mr. Watanabe's baby daughter is really really very cute, I'm posting her photos here too! Hehehe.
Merry Christmas, asses of the world! ^_^
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Christmas Corner
Honestly, I really don't feel much of the Christmas spirit in the office. Sure, a Christmas tree was put up at the main entrance, albeit a little late. Sure, we're doing the whole Kris Kringle thing. Sure, we'll be having our Christmas party on Friday. Hell, I've even been playing Jimmy Eat World's version of "Last Christmas" on loop. Yeah, I know. It's very cheesy for the Holidays. But I only have two Christmas-y songs in my playlist and I chose it over "Pasko Na Sinta Ko", which is even cheesier. Nyaha. Oh well. Despite all these, I feel like there's still something amiss in the air. I dunno. Christmas blues be gone! Ugh.
Nweiz, during one of those days when our office was devoid of the red, gold, and green trimmings of Christmas, we decided to put up our own Christmas corner. Lookie!
I kinda adjusted the photos' colors and applied a filter or two to give it a Lomographic feel. Hehehe. Who needs a Lomo cam when you have Photoshop?! ^_^
Nweiz, during one of those days when our office was devoid of the red, gold, and green trimmings of Christmas, we decided to put up our own Christmas corner. Lookie!
I kinda adjusted the photos' colors and applied a filter or two to give it a Lomographic feel. Hehehe. Who needs a Lomo cam when you have Photoshop?! ^_^
Sunday, December 02, 2007
JLPT Wa Totemo Taihen Desu Yo!
Because I had to meet Roxie early at Rosario, I woke up at around *ehem* 5am. Hehe. Last night, I was very doubtful that I could do it, so I borrowed my brother's phone and lifted the cordless phone off its rack. With three phones alarming in synchrony, no wonder I was wide awake in a matter of seconds. Hahaha.
Met up with Roxie and April at 7-11. Usually, I am the last to arrive. But not today! For the first time, April arrived late. But according to her, she wouldn't be late had she ridden a different jeepney. But still. Hehe.
A car was parked right in front of 7-11. April thought 'twas our ride so she attempted to open its door. Good thing the door was locked and there were no activated car-theft alarms. Ehe, say hello to the newest member of the Bukas-Kotse Gang. Hehehe. Peace! ;)
When we arrived at La Salle, we first stayed at a nearby McDonald's. Not wanting to fall in a very long line, we asked EJ, who was a few persons away from the cashier, to take our orders as well. Thank you! ^_^
Eventually, the others arrived. Yel and Aucie were also there to take the JLPT. Angaling. Hehe. Got a text message from Kathy saying that we should start falling in line to enter the campus. Not wanting to fall in a very long line, we asked... Ok, we had no one to ask for a favor so we really had no choice but to fall in line. Nyahaha.
Contrary to what I thought, we had no problems locating our room. We simply followed the flow of people and it helped that Roxie already had an idea as to where it could be found. After a few minutes of waiting, the exams began.
Just like in the mock exams, I went through the Kanji/Vocabulary (Moji-Goi) part like a breeze. This is really my favorite part of the exam. As long as I am not required to write Kanji characters, of course. Ehe.
After a short break, the Listening (Chokai) part followed. The sound was checked and rechecked a number of times. It was very bassy to the point that it was hard to listen to. Mhor asked the proctor to adjust the bass. I think she would've accomodated our request if only Mhor appeared more serious about it. Nyaha. Nweiz, there's no chance in hell that I would pass this part of the exam. 'Twas even the important bits that I missed! Did it really say poketonai? Did it really say sankai? Di nga?! Waaahhh!!! Nosebleed! Nyahaha.
After a few minutes of expressing our dismay over the questions, the Grammar/Reading (Dokai-Bunpou) part began. The shortest 50 minutes of my life. Hehehe. I also had a hard time choosing the correct particles. I was hoping to find more of the i-ku-ve and na-ni-ve patterns coz it appeared often in the mock exams. But it didn't appear much this year. Also, in the reading comprehension part of the exam, the story I pictured in mind was different from what was actually written. Hahaha. Oh well. If I didn't pass this year, then I'll try again next year. Or maybe, in another lifetime. Ehe.
To forget how bloody the exam went, we pushed through with our plans to watch Beowulf in IMAX 3D. Since the next showtime was at 3:30pm, we first had our lunch at Tokyo Café. I couldn't contain my laughter everytime the waiters would yell "Konnichiwa!" or "Arigatou gozaimasu!". I dunno. There was something in their intonation that made it sound so funny, at least for me. Hahaha.
Nweiz, Tokyo Café no tabemono wa oishikatta desu. Hehehe. We had Tokyo Boneless Chicken, Chicken Ala Pobre, Chicken Cheese Roll, and Burger and Shrimp platters. We're not chicken lovers, are we? Nyaha. For dessert, we ordered a variety of crêpes: Peaches and Cream, Choco Strawberry, and Apple Caramel.
Mouthwatering, aren't they? Hmmm!!!
We then proceeded to the IMAX theater lobby. While waiting for the movie, we happily played with the Coca-Cola bottles sitting quietly in the corner. We were a bunch of kids on the loose! Nyaha.
As we walked in the theater, we were handed our 3D glasses. Naturally, we goofed around even more and took more pictures wearing them.
Nweiz, the movie was good. Gaiman's humor was apparent. Actually, I thought it was a movie with real actors and not CGI. Because Angelina Jolie looked amazingly real and beautiful.
The IMAX 3D experience was good too. I got a bit dizzy at some parts, though. But I believe that's because we weren't seated in good seats. Oh well.
Met up with Roxie and April at 7-11. Usually, I am the last to arrive. But not today! For the first time, April arrived late. But according to her, she wouldn't be late had she ridden a different jeepney. But still. Hehe.
A car was parked right in front of 7-11. April thought 'twas our ride so she attempted to open its door. Good thing the door was locked and there were no activated car-theft alarms. Ehe, say hello to the newest member of the Bukas-Kotse Gang. Hehehe. Peace! ;)
When we arrived at La Salle, we first stayed at a nearby McDonald's. Not wanting to fall in a very long line, we asked EJ, who was a few persons away from the cashier, to take our orders as well. Thank you! ^_^
Eventually, the others arrived. Yel and Aucie were also there to take the JLPT. Angaling. Hehe. Got a text message from Kathy saying that we should start falling in line to enter the campus. Not wanting to fall in a very long line, we asked... Ok, we had no one to ask for a favor so we really had no choice but to fall in line. Nyahaha.
Contrary to what I thought, we had no problems locating our room. We simply followed the flow of people and it helped that Roxie already had an idea as to where it could be found. After a few minutes of waiting, the exams began.
Just like in the mock exams, I went through the Kanji/Vocabulary (Moji-Goi) part like a breeze. This is really my favorite part of the exam. As long as I am not required to write Kanji characters, of course. Ehe.
After a short break, the Listening (Chokai) part followed. The sound was checked and rechecked a number of times. It was very bassy to the point that it was hard to listen to. Mhor asked the proctor to adjust the bass. I think she would've accomodated our request if only Mhor appeared more serious about it. Nyaha. Nweiz, there's no chance in hell that I would pass this part of the exam. 'Twas even the important bits that I missed! Did it really say poketonai? Did it really say sankai? Di nga?! Waaahhh!!! Nosebleed! Nyahaha.
After a few minutes of expressing our dismay over the questions, the Grammar/Reading (Dokai-Bunpou) part began. The shortest 50 minutes of my life. Hehehe. I also had a hard time choosing the correct particles. I was hoping to find more of the i-ku-ve and na-ni-ve patterns coz it appeared often in the mock exams. But it didn't appear much this year. Also, in the reading comprehension part of the exam, the story I pictured in mind was different from what was actually written. Hahaha. Oh well. If I didn't pass this year, then I'll try again next year. Or maybe, in another lifetime. Ehe.
To forget how bloody the exam went, we pushed through with our plans to watch Beowulf in IMAX 3D. Since the next showtime was at 3:30pm, we first had our lunch at Tokyo Café. I couldn't contain my laughter everytime the waiters would yell "Konnichiwa!" or "Arigatou gozaimasu!". I dunno. There was something in their intonation that made it sound so funny, at least for me. Hahaha.
Nweiz, Tokyo Café no tabemono wa oishikatta desu. Hehehe. We had Tokyo Boneless Chicken, Chicken Ala Pobre, Chicken Cheese Roll, and Burger and Shrimp platters. We're not chicken lovers, are we? Nyaha. For dessert, we ordered a variety of crêpes: Peaches and Cream, Choco Strawberry, and Apple Caramel.
Mouthwatering, aren't they? Hmmm!!!
We then proceeded to the IMAX theater lobby. While waiting for the movie, we happily played with the Coca-Cola bottles sitting quietly in the corner. We were a bunch of kids on the loose! Nyaha.
As we walked in the theater, we were handed our 3D glasses. Naturally, we goofed around even more and took more pictures wearing them.
Nweiz, the movie was good. Gaiman's humor was apparent. Actually, I thought it was a movie with real actors and not CGI. Because Angelina Jolie looked amazingly real and beautiful.
The IMAX 3D experience was good too. I got a bit dizzy at some parts, though. But I believe that's because we weren't seated in good seats. Oh well.
"I am the Ripper! The Tearer! The Slasher!
I am the Teeth in the Darkness! The Talons in the Night!
My name is Strength! And Lust! And Power!
I am Beowulf!"
Monday, November 19, 2007
Breaking Wind
After my brother passed gas...
Mom: "Anu ba yan! Hindi ba pwedeng sa isang araw e wala akong maririnig na umuutot?"
Mom, don't you think that's too much to ask? Hahahaha!
Mom: "Anu ba yan! Hindi ba pwedeng sa isang araw e wala akong maririnig na umuutot?"
Mom, don't you think that's too much to ask? Hahahaha!
~o0o~
If you hold in a fart, will it cause you to spontaneously combust? Or will it just look for another way out? Hmm... As a smelly burp, perhaps?
If you burp your fart out, how will it taste? Will it taste like shit? Oh well. Just utot. Err, just a thought pala. Hahaha.
Apparently, holding in a fart would not lead to spontaneous combustion and neither would it come out as a smelly burp. It would, however, shoot up the length of your spine, soak into your brain, causing you to come up with shitty ideas like this. NyAaaAahh! >_<
If you burp your fart out, how will it taste? Will it taste like shit? Oh well. Just utot. Err, just a thought pala. Hahaha.
"Why fart and waste it when you can burp and taste it?"
Apparently, holding in a fart would not lead to spontaneous combustion and neither would it come out as a smelly burp. It would, however, shoot up the length of your spine, soak into your brain, causing you to come up with shitty ideas like this. NyAaaAahh! >_<
Monday, November 12, 2007
Bagoiu, Bagiuo, Baguio!
11.09.07
Franz got a text message from Ate Rochelle saying that we'll meet at Teriyaki Boy and have our dinner treated by someone. And who that "someone" is, is a surprise. Nyaha. Adik. Like we're still up for surprises. Ehe. But as I promised, I still tried to act surprised that Ate Lotis managed to fly in from Singapore. And as she promised, she got us some chocolates as pasalubong. Ahihihi. Thanks! ^_^ And guess what?! I used my chopsticks for the entire meal! Haha. Something that I've always found frustrating to accomplish. But (yeah, there is a but) I kinda cheated my way through it. I had my chopsticks held together with a hair band and some folded tissue, making them easier to use. Thanks to Roney and CSI. Hehehe. ;)
Nweiz, after dinner, we went back to the office to finish some test items. Ate Rochelle and Ate Lotis dropped by also. We weren't prepared for it so most of our things were scattered on our tables. Subtly, I kept the CDs, the checklist, and other things related to our not-so-surprise gift. Nyaha. They went to their apartment shortly after so we got to finish the CD and wrap our gift as well. Then, we met at the lobby where we took a cab going to Victory Liner terminal in Cubao.
When we arrived at the terminal, all buses going to Baguio for the next three hours were already full. We were dead wrong for assuming that there won't be a lot of passengers leaving for Baguio since the long weekend was last week and 'twas not payday week. Waah! We should have still bought our tickets early on or we should've at least called the terminal just to be sure. To think that we had this planned out since last August or September pa! Nyaha. Though we could take our chance as, well, as chance passengers, the probability that we'd get boarded was close to zero. So we bought tickets for the 3am bus instead.
While waiting for our ride, they all studied their Nihongo. I would've done the same but I left my take-home mock exams at the office. Adik. Hehe. I asked them if we could already give our gift to Ate Rochelle just because I wanted to get hold of the bubble wrap and start popping 'em bubbles! Hehehe. I wonder what is it that makes popping bubble wraps so addictively satisfying? Soo addicting actually, that I sometimes do it online! Nyaha. Nweiz, 3am came and the moment we landed on our seats, we slowly drifted to exhausted sleep. ZzzZz...
11.10.07
At Baguio, we first dropped our things at Roney's place where we freshened up and rested for a while. Her niece, Chelsé, showered each one of us with big hugs and kisses. Ancute! Funny coz she has this big crush on JP! She hugged and kissed him every chance she got! Ahihihi.
Nweiz, our first stop for the day was at Burnham park. And the first thing that we did was to eat kwek-kwek, chicken balls, and dirty ice cream! Yum! How's that for some Baguio experience? Hehehe.
After eating, we rented bikes at Php40 an hour. Ate Lotis, Ate Rochelle and I went for the mountain bikes while Roney, JP and Franz went for the sidecar. Funny how their sidecar was never in good condition. Either they got a flat tire, a loose chain, or one with faulty breaks. Hehehe. Can't remember the last time I rode a bike so, though it was a bit tiring, I really enjoyed it. Especially when I let my bike freewheel down the slope! Woohoo! ^_^
Then, we went near the boats. No, not to ride one but to take more pictures. Nyahaha. Why didn't we get on a boat anyway? That could've been something more Baguio-like, right? Nyehe.
Our next stop were the famed ukay-ukay stores of Baguio. JP got this really nice jacket for Php700. 'Twas partly our birthday gift to him so we chipped in Php100 each for it. If that was a good steal or not, I dunno. Ehe. I didn't get to buy anything, though. We really had no time to scour the place but I'm sure there are lots of other great finds hidden in that maze of stalls and hangers. But I think that the prices were no less expensive than that of Manila's. I was hoping to buy myself a Chanel Diamond Forever bag priced at Php10. Hahaha. ^_^
Who would visit the Botanical Garden at night? Nyahaha. Before going inside, we first bought taho. Manong was offering 2 flavors: chocolate and strawberry. We all ordered the chocolate-flavored taho thinking that it would really taste like chocolate. Haha. Guess we were all disappointed coz it tasted nothing like the chocolate we know. 'Twas simply taho with arnibal. Boohoo. Manong gave us a free taste sample of the strawberry-flavored taho and I think it was way better.
But I digress.
Again, who would visit the Botanical Garden at night? Us. Hehehe. We just wanted to see what the garden looks like at night. Apparently, it just looked... dark. Wow. I mean, I've never seen darkness so deep and so black. Hahaha. *toink*
Now here's a place that no Baguio tourist should fail to visit. If you've never been here then it's like you've never been to Baguio. What place am I talking about? SM City Baguio! Hehehe. While Ate Lotis went somewhere else, we snapped some photos by the balcony.
Also, I was able to have my photo taken at my corner. Hehe. Actually, I've been meaning to do this for years, but the malls in Manila are always crowded especially during the season when Blue Magic puts up this banner. Ahihihi.
We then had our dinner treated by Roney at Don Henrico's. While waiting for our food, we were all busy doing our own thing. I was busy trying to capture my reflection on the dinner knife. After a couple of failed attempts... I was finally able to pull it off! Hehehe. ^_^
Food was abundant! The table wasn't quite big enough to hold all the food and the drinks, that we even placed the platter of pasta and chicken under the pizza stand.
At the other table, someone was celebrating his/her birthday. A group of waiters sang and handed the celebrant with a complimentary scoop of ice cream. Just for the heck of it, we pretended that it was also my birthday. A few minutes later, a waiter confirmed, and 'twas my birthday all over again! Ahihihi.
We were busy rehearsing our birthday clap when I overheard someone say, "Birthday? Di ako naniniwala!". I felt abashed and really guilty at the same time that I wanted to take back what we said. Nyaha! It turned out that JP and I were the only ones who overheard it. So when I told them what we heard, Ate Rochelle said that we don't need them to sing, that it's not our loss, that they'd just buy me a gallon of double dutch ice cream, etc. Still, the waiters sang. We didn't do the birthday clap and neither did we reacted while they were singing. NR lang. Hehe. I was given a measly scoop of vanilla ice cream, which I didn't eat. Instead, we left it topped with a generous sprinkling of parmesan cheese and a dash of hot sauce. Hahaha. We fooled them alright, but still, no way should they treat their customers like that. Right?
Supposedly, we were to watch a movie at SM but the guard refused to let us in, saying that the mall was already closed. We told him that we would simply run some errands at the supermarket instead. But still, he didn't budge. Hmp! While walking, we saw a liquor store aptly named Booze. Hehe. We bought two bottles of Shakers chocolate mudslide! I looove!
When we got back at Roney's place, we almost consumed both bottles in no time. We downed it like we were just getting our fix of chocolate drink before going to bed. Nyehe.
11.11.07
Our first stop for the day was the Philippine Military Academy. Climbed the tree house where we got a wide view of the place and the cadets. Though they were more picturesque especially in their uniforms and synchronicity, we didn't take much pictures of them coz we were camera whores like that. Nyehe.
The Beatles have done it. The Simpsons have done it.
We may not be on Abbey road... but so could we! Hehehe.
Really, really glad to finally have another shot in mind turn into reality. Hehehe. Wanted to do this also for a long time already and I thought it was impossible to find a pedestrian lane sans the cars and the commuters in broad daylight. So glad I thought wrong. Hehe.
Took more pictures amid a profusion of floral explosions and war machines...
We were on our way back when JP saw this signboard going to the Aviary. Walked for quite a distance up the road, along rows of huge trees and passing jeepneys at times. When we arrived at the Aviary, what we saw was just a big, rusty, old cage and nothing more. There were no singing birds, not a chirp, not even a feather. Just that, a cage. But as they say, a bird in a cage is not half a bird. So what the hell. Hehe.
Saw a bazaar along the way, and being the bargain hunters that we are, we dropped by to see what's on sale. Again, not a thing was bought. But JP and Roney didn't leave the bazaar empty-handed.
Because we've learned our lesson, we then headed to Victory Liner terminal to buy tickets going back to Manila. Originally, our plan was to take the 2am bus but for whatever reason, they bought tickets for the 11.50pm bus. How sad. Huhu. Oh well.
We then had our lunch at KFC in SM. Everyone's all-time favorite. Just wanted to taste Baguio's take of the famous finger-licking-good chicken. Well actually, 'twas exactly like the ones we have back in Manila. Nyaha. As if.
Recalled JP's hilariously naïve remarks about the country's summer capital:
1. "Magkakakilala ba kayong lahat sa Baguio?"
2. "Wala na bang ibang mall dito sa Baguio?"
3. "Angaling! Umuulan din pala sa Baguio..."
4. "Wala yata silang ref e..."
Inapi ang Baguio! Hahaha! *toink*
Nweiz, after lunch, we went to Baguio Tea House for its überdelicious cakes. First got a taste of it when Roney brought some at the office and I swore I would buy some myself when we get to Baguio. Trust me when I say that the cake is yummy times ten! Really a must-try!!! Hehehe.
Our next destination was Barrio Fiesta's Igorot Street. The statues were all cleverly carved and positioned. Imagine seeing life-size statues scattered around the area like normal bystanders. Wait, don't imagine. See these!
Then, off to the market to buy our pasalubongs. We bought strawberries, a bottle of strawberry jam, chocolate flakes, mallows, lengua de gato, and crocheted purses. My mom also asked me to bring home a walis tambo but I told her that no way would I travel with that in tow. Nyaha. Also bought this cute little boy that I saw in the Internet a few years back.
Went to a place selling various woodworks and saw a yoyo made of kamagong. Very nice, yes. But it was too expensive for me, so no thank you. Hehe. Franz was able to buy his anito. I also wanted one for my room but I still dunno when I would be able to see that room again. Ugh. Oh well.
It rained so our journey home was a bit of a hassle. Went back to Roney's place where we ate slices of pizza from last night while watching a game of pool. After that, we fixed our things, said our thank you's and goodbyes to Roney's family, before heading off to the mall to watch Hide and Seek. Yung taguan. Nyahaha.
After the movie, we went straight to the bus terminal. While waiting for time to pass, Roney and I dropped by a souvenir shop where we bought bracelets for everyone. Nice, eh?
We finally boarded the bus when the clock struck 11:50. Again, the bus was another photo opportunity for us. Hehe. I seriously felt like a highschool kid out on a field trip! Hahaha.
Stardust was playing and since I haven't watched it yet, I tried my best to fight off sleep. But later on, sleep got the better of me and I helplessly succumbed to my tired body. ZzzZz...
When we arrived at Cubao, I was still half asleep and was practically dragging myself to walk. Also, I kept thinking of how much time I've got left to rest before going back to work. Consequently, I forgot to thank Ate Lotis for joining us still, and for the treat and the pasalubong. Nyaha.
Nweiz, my bed was screaming when I arrived. In a fraction of a second, I fell into a deep slumber. A much needed one for I still had a looong day of work ahead of me. Boo-hoo.
Sa uulitin!!! ^_^
Franz got a text message from Ate Rochelle saying that we'll meet at Teriyaki Boy and have our dinner treated by someone. And who that "someone" is, is a surprise. Nyaha. Adik. Like we're still up for surprises. Ehe. But as I promised, I still tried to act surprised that Ate Lotis managed to fly in from Singapore. And as she promised, she got us some chocolates as pasalubong. Ahihihi. Thanks! ^_^ And guess what?! I used my chopsticks for the entire meal! Haha. Something that I've always found frustrating to accomplish. But (yeah, there is a but) I kinda cheated my way through it. I had my chopsticks held together with a hair band and some folded tissue, making them easier to use. Thanks to Roney and CSI. Hehehe. ;)
Nweiz, after dinner, we went back to the office to finish some test items. Ate Rochelle and Ate Lotis dropped by also. We weren't prepared for it so most of our things were scattered on our tables. Subtly, I kept the CDs, the checklist, and other things related to our not-so-surprise gift. Nyaha. They went to their apartment shortly after so we got to finish the CD and wrap our gift as well. Then, we met at the lobby where we took a cab going to Victory Liner terminal in Cubao.
When we arrived at the terminal, all buses going to Baguio for the next three hours were already full. We were dead wrong for assuming that there won't be a lot of passengers leaving for Baguio since the long weekend was last week and 'twas not payday week. Waah! We should have still bought our tickets early on or we should've at least called the terminal just to be sure. To think that we had this planned out since last August or September pa! Nyaha. Though we could take our chance as, well, as chance passengers, the probability that we'd get boarded was close to zero. So we bought tickets for the 3am bus instead.
While waiting for our ride, they all studied their Nihongo. I would've done the same but I left my take-home mock exams at the office. Adik. Hehe. I asked them if we could already give our gift to Ate Rochelle just because I wanted to get hold of the bubble wrap and start popping 'em bubbles! Hehehe. I wonder what is it that makes popping bubble wraps so addictively satisfying? Soo addicting actually, that I sometimes do it online! Nyaha. Nweiz, 3am came and the moment we landed on our seats, we slowly drifted to exhausted sleep. ZzzZz...
11.10.07
At Baguio, we first dropped our things at Roney's place where we freshened up and rested for a while. Her niece, Chelsé, showered each one of us with big hugs and kisses. Ancute! Funny coz she has this big crush on JP! She hugged and kissed him every chance she got! Ahihihi.
Nweiz, our first stop for the day was at Burnham park. And the first thing that we did was to eat kwek-kwek, chicken balls, and dirty ice cream! Yum! How's that for some Baguio experience? Hehehe.
After eating, we rented bikes at Php40 an hour. Ate Lotis, Ate Rochelle and I went for the mountain bikes while Roney, JP and Franz went for the sidecar. Funny how their sidecar was never in good condition. Either they got a flat tire, a loose chain, or one with faulty breaks. Hehehe. Can't remember the last time I rode a bike so, though it was a bit tiring, I really enjoyed it. Especially when I let my bike freewheel down the slope! Woohoo! ^_^
Then, we went near the boats. No, not to ride one but to take more pictures. Nyahaha. Why didn't we get on a boat anyway? That could've been something more Baguio-like, right? Nyehe.
Our next stop were the famed ukay-ukay stores of Baguio. JP got this really nice jacket for Php700. 'Twas partly our birthday gift to him so we chipped in Php100 each for it. If that was a good steal or not, I dunno. Ehe. I didn't get to buy anything, though. We really had no time to scour the place but I'm sure there are lots of other great finds hidden in that maze of stalls and hangers. But I think that the prices were no less expensive than that of Manila's. I was hoping to buy myself a Chanel Diamond Forever bag priced at Php10. Hahaha. ^_^
Who would visit the Botanical Garden at night? Nyahaha. Before going inside, we first bought taho. Manong was offering 2 flavors: chocolate and strawberry. We all ordered the chocolate-flavored taho thinking that it would really taste like chocolate. Haha. Guess we were all disappointed coz it tasted nothing like the chocolate we know. 'Twas simply taho with arnibal. Boohoo. Manong gave us a free taste sample of the strawberry-flavored taho and I think it was way better.
But I digress.
Again, who would visit the Botanical Garden at night? Us. Hehehe. We just wanted to see what the garden looks like at night. Apparently, it just looked... dark. Wow. I mean, I've never seen darkness so deep and so black. Hahaha. *toink*
Now here's a place that no Baguio tourist should fail to visit. If you've never been here then it's like you've never been to Baguio. What place am I talking about? SM City Baguio! Hehehe. While Ate Lotis went somewhere else, we snapped some photos by the balcony.
Also, I was able to have my photo taken at my corner. Hehe. Actually, I've been meaning to do this for years, but the malls in Manila are always crowded especially during the season when Blue Magic puts up this banner. Ahihihi.
We then had our dinner treated by Roney at Don Henrico's. While waiting for our food, we were all busy doing our own thing. I was busy trying to capture my reflection on the dinner knife. After a couple of failed attempts... I was finally able to pull it off! Hehehe. ^_^
Food was abundant! The table wasn't quite big enough to hold all the food and the drinks, that we even placed the platter of pasta and chicken under the pizza stand.
At the other table, someone was celebrating his/her birthday. A group of waiters sang and handed the celebrant with a complimentary scoop of ice cream. Just for the heck of it, we pretended that it was also my birthday. A few minutes later, a waiter confirmed, and 'twas my birthday all over again! Ahihihi.
We were busy rehearsing our birthday clap when I overheard someone say, "Birthday? Di ako naniniwala!". I felt abashed and really guilty at the same time that I wanted to take back what we said. Nyaha! It turned out that JP and I were the only ones who overheard it. So when I told them what we heard, Ate Rochelle said that we don't need them to sing, that it's not our loss, that they'd just buy me a gallon of double dutch ice cream, etc. Still, the waiters sang. We didn't do the birthday clap and neither did we reacted while they were singing. NR lang. Hehe. I was given a measly scoop of vanilla ice cream, which I didn't eat. Instead, we left it topped with a generous sprinkling of parmesan cheese and a dash of hot sauce. Hahaha. We fooled them alright, but still, no way should they treat their customers like that. Right?
Supposedly, we were to watch a movie at SM but the guard refused to let us in, saying that the mall was already closed. We told him that we would simply run some errands at the supermarket instead. But still, he didn't budge. Hmp! While walking, we saw a liquor store aptly named Booze. Hehe. We bought two bottles of Shakers chocolate mudslide! I looove!
When we got back at Roney's place, we almost consumed both bottles in no time. We downed it like we were just getting our fix of chocolate drink before going to bed. Nyehe.
11.11.07
Our first stop for the day was the Philippine Military Academy. Climbed the tree house where we got a wide view of the place and the cadets. Though they were more picturesque especially in their uniforms and synchronicity, we didn't take much pictures of them coz we were camera whores like that. Nyehe.
The Beatles have done it. The Simpsons have done it.
We may not be on Abbey road... but so could we! Hehehe.
Really, really glad to finally have another shot in mind turn into reality. Hehehe. Wanted to do this also for a long time already and I thought it was impossible to find a pedestrian lane sans the cars and the commuters in broad daylight. So glad I thought wrong. Hehe.
Took more pictures amid a profusion of floral explosions and war machines...
We were on our way back when JP saw this signboard going to the Aviary. Walked for quite a distance up the road, along rows of huge trees and passing jeepneys at times. When we arrived at the Aviary, what we saw was just a big, rusty, old cage and nothing more. There were no singing birds, not a chirp, not even a feather. Just that, a cage. But as they say, a bird in a cage is not half a bird. So what the hell. Hehe.
Saw a bazaar along the way, and being the bargain hunters that we are, we dropped by to see what's on sale. Again, not a thing was bought. But JP and Roney didn't leave the bazaar empty-handed.
Because we've learned our lesson, we then headed to Victory Liner terminal to buy tickets going back to Manila. Originally, our plan was to take the 2am bus but for whatever reason, they bought tickets for the 11.50pm bus. How sad. Huhu. Oh well.
We then had our lunch at KFC in SM. Everyone's all-time favorite. Just wanted to taste Baguio's take of the famous finger-licking-good chicken. Well actually, 'twas exactly like the ones we have back in Manila. Nyaha. As if.
Recalled JP's hilariously naïve remarks about the country's summer capital:
1. "Magkakakilala ba kayong lahat sa Baguio?"
2. "Wala na bang ibang mall dito sa Baguio?"
3. "Angaling! Umuulan din pala sa Baguio..."
4. "Wala yata silang ref e..."
Inapi ang Baguio! Hahaha! *toink*
Nweiz, after lunch, we went to Baguio Tea House for its überdelicious cakes. First got a taste of it when Roney brought some at the office and I swore I would buy some myself when we get to Baguio. Trust me when I say that the cake is yummy times ten! Really a must-try!!! Hehehe.
Our next destination was Barrio Fiesta's Igorot Street. The statues were all cleverly carved and positioned. Imagine seeing life-size statues scattered around the area like normal bystanders. Wait, don't imagine. See these!
Then, off to the market to buy our pasalubongs. We bought strawberries, a bottle of strawberry jam, chocolate flakes, mallows, lengua de gato, and crocheted purses. My mom also asked me to bring home a walis tambo but I told her that no way would I travel with that in tow. Nyaha. Also bought this cute little boy that I saw in the Internet a few years back.
Went to a place selling various woodworks and saw a yoyo made of kamagong. Very nice, yes. But it was too expensive for me, so no thank you. Hehe. Franz was able to buy his anito. I also wanted one for my room but I still dunno when I would be able to see that room again. Ugh. Oh well.
It rained so our journey home was a bit of a hassle. Went back to Roney's place where we ate slices of pizza from last night while watching a game of pool. After that, we fixed our things, said our thank you's and goodbyes to Roney's family, before heading off to the mall to watch Hide and Seek. Yung taguan. Nyahaha.
After the movie, we went straight to the bus terminal. While waiting for time to pass, Roney and I dropped by a souvenir shop where we bought bracelets for everyone. Nice, eh?
We finally boarded the bus when the clock struck 11:50. Again, the bus was another photo opportunity for us. Hehe. I seriously felt like a highschool kid out on a field trip! Hahaha.
Stardust was playing and since I haven't watched it yet, I tried my best to fight off sleep. But later on, sleep got the better of me and I helplessly succumbed to my tired body. ZzzZz...
When we arrived at Cubao, I was still half asleep and was practically dragging myself to walk. Also, I kept thinking of how much time I've got left to rest before going back to work. Consequently, I forgot to thank Ate Lotis for joining us still, and for the treat and the pasalubong. Nyaha.
Nweiz, my bed was screaming when I arrived. In a fraction of a second, I fell into a deep slumber. A much needed one for I still had a looong day of work ahead of me. Boo-hoo.
Sa uulitin!!! ^_^
Monday, November 05, 2007
Free Rice
Wanna help yourself?
Improve your vocabulary.
Wanna help end world hunger?
Donate rice.
Do them both at FreeRice.com.
Saturday, November 03, 2007
Inside My Mind
The rules are simple. List 20 things you want to say to 20 people but you know you never will. Don't say who they are.
1. I said I understood why. But I never really did.
2. I hate you. I miss you. I love you. I'm sorry.
3. You think you know but you have no idea.
4. This is not home.
5. There's this little corner in my heart that you'll own forever.
6. I laugh when you cry.
7. Get the fuck out of your closet!
8. Nothing was thrown. Nothing was deleted. I kept everything.
9. I hated you so much, I wished you were dead.
10. Please come back.
11. Where's your share? It's been five months.
12. When I said "I don't like you", I lied.
13. Who am I to you?
14. Know where your place is.
15. It was not someone else. It was you.
16. You are sooo pathetic.
17. Thank you but I already have one.
18. I was wrong and you were right all along.
19. You are the problem.
20. Are we possible?
1. I said I understood why. But I never really did.
2. I hate you. I miss you. I love you. I'm sorry.
3. You think you know but you have no idea.
4. This is not home.
5. There's this little corner in my heart that you'll own forever.
6. I laugh when you cry.
7. Get the fuck out of your closet!
8. Nothing was thrown. Nothing was deleted. I kept everything.
9. I hated you so much, I wished you were dead.
10. Please come back.
11. Where's your share? It's been five months.
12. When I said "I don't like you", I lied.
13. Who am I to you?
14. Know where your place is.
15. It was not someone else. It was you.
16. You are sooo pathetic.
17. Thank you but I already have one.
18. I was wrong and you were right all along.
19. You are the problem.
20. Are we possible?
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Riding On Shooting Stars
I am not one who believes in Astrology. I don't think that the alignment of the stars and the planets, lightyears away from me, has any influence in shaping the events in my life. But when I stumbled upon Susan Miller's readings, my belief, or rather, my non-belief was seriously challenged and picked on.
"Lately you've been spending a lot of money, but there is some indication that you may have had little choice but to do so."
True. Birthdays could be really expensive. In less than 48 hours, a wad of one hundred peso bills in my wallet thinned out to a pale purple memory. In less than a week, my savings account was a humming panic of zeros! Hehe. Ok, that was a bit of a stretch. But you get the picture.
"A friend may unexpectedly announce that he's leaving your sphere, perhaps to move to a distant city. In this case, you will be sad to see this person go."
True. Not one but three persons have left my sphere. Friends have moved to a distant city. A distant country, even. They moved to a place where the grass grows greener (and the cows moo louder? Hehe.) And in all cases, I ended up shedding a tear or two. T_T (Aww.. sad. Nyaha!)
"With the move of Saturn out of your career sector, you will find that your hard work will be rewarded, if not this month, soon. Saturn always leaves a gift by the door as thanks for dealing with his rigors, and you will see proof of this almost immediately."
True. I just got myself promoted from DE1 to DE2. What a wonderful post birthday gift! Ahihihi. All the overtimes, all the sleepless nights, all the efforts, all the hardwork - none have gone unrewarded. Kudos! ^_^
I wonder what the stars have in store for me next month...
"Lately you've been spending a lot of money, but there is some indication that you may have had little choice but to do so."
True. Birthdays could be really expensive. In less than 48 hours, a wad of one hundred peso bills in my wallet thinned out to a pale purple memory. In less than a week, my savings account was a humming panic of zeros! Hehe. Ok, that was a bit of a stretch. But you get the picture.
"A friend may unexpectedly announce that he's leaving your sphere, perhaps to move to a distant city. In this case, you will be sad to see this person go."
True. Not one but three persons have left my sphere. Friends have moved to a distant city. A distant country, even. They moved to a place where the grass grows greener (and the cows moo louder? Hehe.) And in all cases, I ended up shedding a tear or two. T_T (Aww.. sad. Nyaha!)
"With the move of Saturn out of your career sector, you will find that your hard work will be rewarded, if not this month, soon. Saturn always leaves a gift by the door as thanks for dealing with his rigors, and you will see proof of this almost immediately."
True. I just got myself promoted from DE1 to DE2. What a wonderful post birthday gift! Ahihihi. All the overtimes, all the sleepless nights, all the efforts, all the hardwork - none have gone unrewarded. Kudos! ^_^
I wonder what the stars have in store for me next month...
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Funk That Shit
SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT.
SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT.
SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT.
SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT.
SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT.
Can we ever put the pieces back together? Or will we just die trying?
Ugh. Talk about bringing the FUNK back in dysFUNKtional.
SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT.
SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT.
SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT.
SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT.
Can we ever put the pieces back together? Or will we just die trying?
Ugh. Talk about bringing the FUNK back in dysFUNKtional.
Friday, October 26, 2007
And The Song Plays On
Today is Ate Rochelle's last day in Tsukiden.
I woke up and 'twas the first thing that came to mind. Good thing I was texting Roxie at that time so I got to tell a living soul how sad I felt. In turn, she told me not to be sad coz we'll still be seeing each other anyway. But still, I couldn't help it. :(
Come 11am, we cranked up our messengers. Her status read "please remember... me". Told Roney, JP and Franz to PM her with "we will... :)". The plan was to simultaneously hit the enter key at the count of three. I think we did, but the lag time was pretty bad as usual. Her reaction was "Ang lakas mang-trip ah!" or something like that. I was a little saddened and a little pissed coz we really meant it, we will really remember her and we weren't just tripping. Oh well.
The afternoon briefing came and 'twas time for her to say her piece. I thought she'd simply say her "thank you's", but how wrong I was. She said a couple of things that hit home. Her voice even cracked at one point and Roney started to tear. I don't really cry in front of other people so, with all the strength I could muster, I swallowed hard and bit back my tears. Nyahaha. Andrama.
Nweiz, not having her around will surely be quite an adjustment for us. Usually, she's the one who strikes up the, to put it in her own words, "goofing around" at such crucial times making our overnights less dragging. Now I'm afraid that even the overtimes would be dragging. But I really hope I'm wrong. And as for me, since I entered VGS, we had six seating arrangements and I sat beside her for like four times. I heard her jokes, her stories, her laughter, and her music. And not hearing all of that starting next week would be really different and would take a lot of getting used to.
"Tsukiden has been my song for more than 3 years, with all of you serving as notes and lyrics. It will not be as melodious as this if not for you. As I start to sing a new song, Tsukiden will always linger in my mind... Wherever I go... Wherever I may be."
I woke up and 'twas the first thing that came to mind. Good thing I was texting Roxie at that time so I got to tell a living soul how sad I felt. In turn, she told me not to be sad coz we'll still be seeing each other anyway. But still, I couldn't help it. :(
Come 11am, we cranked up our messengers. Her status read "please remember... me". Told Roney, JP and Franz to PM her with "we will... :)". The plan was to simultaneously hit the enter key at the count of three. I think we did, but the lag time was pretty bad as usual. Her reaction was "Ang lakas mang-trip ah!" or something like that. I was a little saddened and a little pissed coz we really meant it, we will really remember her and we weren't just tripping. Oh well.
The afternoon briefing came and 'twas time for her to say her piece. I thought she'd simply say her "thank you's", but how wrong I was. She said a couple of things that hit home. Her voice even cracked at one point and Roney started to tear. I don't really cry in front of other people so, with all the strength I could muster, I swallowed hard and bit back my tears. Nyahaha. Andrama.
Nweiz, not having her around will surely be quite an adjustment for us. Usually, she's the one who strikes up the, to put it in her own words, "goofing around" at such crucial times making our overnights less dragging. Now I'm afraid that even the overtimes would be dragging. But I really hope I'm wrong. And as for me, since I entered VGS, we had six seating arrangements and I sat beside her for like four times. I heard her jokes, her stories, her laughter, and her music. And not hearing all of that starting next week would be really different and would take a lot of getting used to.
"Tsukiden has been my song for more than 3 years, with all of you serving as notes and lyrics. It will not be as melodious as this if not for you. As I start to sing a new song, Tsukiden will always linger in my mind... Wherever I go... Wherever I may be."
~o0o~
In other news, the CS department had a buffet dinner at Nagomi, which also served as our project's milestone-slash-kickoff party. The food wasn't great and it wasn't even an 'eat-all-you-can' buffet! Can you spell UNFAIR?! Amp. There goes our project's budget. Ugh.
Since we have declared this day as Chucks Day, our Chuck Taylor's took the spotlight after dinner.
Hahaha! What fun! ^_^
Since we have declared this day as Chucks Day, our Chuck Taylor's took the spotlight after dinner.
Hahaha! What fun! ^_^
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Kringle@22
I am 22 today. I have seen twenty-two years of LiFe. I have gained twenty-two years worth of experiences. Twenty-two years filled with ups and downs, highs and lows, victories and failures, laughter and tears, and all else in between.
There are a couple of things that I thought I would've achieved by now. A couple of things that I thought would be a little less cloudy. But I try not to think too much about it at the moment. Afterall, 22 is still very young and I still have a lot of years ahead of me. So what the hell. Haha.
I am 22 today. Twenty-two candles were blown. Twenty-two wishes were made. I am now a year older. Hopefully a year wiser. But that is yet to be seen. Hehehe. ;)
Thank you for all your well wishes, birthday greetings, and birthday presents. They are very much appreciated. I really had a blast in the office. Thank you very much for making me feel extra special. Ahihihi. The "family" celebration wasn't the same as before, though. But I'd rather not talk about that.
Oh well. This may not be the best birthday ever. But I'm smiling anyway.
Thank you all!!! ^_^
There are a couple of things that I thought I would've achieved by now. A couple of things that I thought would be a little less cloudy. But I try not to think too much about it at the moment. Afterall, 22 is still very young and I still have a lot of years ahead of me. So what the hell. Haha.
I am 22 today. Twenty-two candles were blown. Twenty-two wishes were made. I am now a year older. Hopefully a year wiser. But that is yet to be seen. Hehehe. ;)
Thank you for all your well wishes, birthday greetings, and birthday presents. They are very much appreciated. I really had a blast in the office. Thank you very much for making me feel extra special. Ahihihi. The "family" celebration wasn't the same as before, though. But I'd rather not talk about that.
Oh well. This may not be the best birthday ever. But I'm smiling anyway.
Thank you all!!! ^_^
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Wall In Love
There were no breathtaking views. No cool, clean air to greet us at the peak. There was no mountain to begin with. There was nothing. Nothing but a wall.
Supposedly, we were to meet 10am at Starbucks. I woke up a little past 9. Texted MJ that I would be late and that I'd just follow them there. In my rush to leave, I forgot to pack a pair of socks so I had to drop by SM Hypermarket first. I arrived at Starbucks a few minutes before 11. Nyaha.
The last time we went wall climbing, I told myself that next time, I'll no longer climb the straight wall and that I'll reserve all my energy climbing the inclined wall. But kuya insisted otherwise coz he had to teach Tin and Claire proper belaying. After resting for a long while and snapping a lot of photos, I once again attempted to climb the inclined wall. Sadly, I still failed to reach its peak. But I take pride at the fact that I reached approximately twice as high as my last attempt. Haha!
Come lunch time, we all agreed to get some takeout food from Taste Asia in Hypermarket. But Tin and I forgot all about it the moment we saw all these sizzling dishes. So while MJ got herself some takeout food, we absentmindedly ordered ourselves some spareribs and sisig - both served sizzlingly hot. Nyaha. Sorry, MJ! Our bad. Nweiz, I almost lost my wallet also. But thank God there are still some honest people left in this world. ^_^
When we got back, there were more people in the area - mostly Koreans and Pinoy kids. Almost all of them, especially the kids, reached the peak of the inclined wall with no sweat. Shame on me. Nyaha. So before they could crush the little spirit I had left (hehe), I firmly strapped myself into the harness and began my final ascend. On the straight wall, that is. Nyaha.
\m/(-_-)\m/
CLIMB ON!!!
Supposedly, we were to meet 10am at Starbucks. I woke up a little past 9. Texted MJ that I would be late and that I'd just follow them there. In my rush to leave, I forgot to pack a pair of socks so I had to drop by SM Hypermarket first. I arrived at Starbucks a few minutes before 11. Nyaha.
The last time we went wall climbing, I told myself that next time, I'll no longer climb the straight wall and that I'll reserve all my energy climbing the inclined wall. But kuya insisted otherwise coz he had to teach Tin and Claire proper belaying. After resting for a long while and snapping a lot of photos, I once again attempted to climb the inclined wall. Sadly, I still failed to reach its peak. But I take pride at the fact that I reached approximately twice as high as my last attempt. Haha!
Come lunch time, we all agreed to get some takeout food from Taste Asia in Hypermarket. But Tin and I forgot all about it the moment we saw all these sizzling dishes. So while MJ got herself some takeout food, we absentmindedly ordered ourselves some spareribs and sisig - both served sizzlingly hot. Nyaha. Sorry, MJ! Our bad. Nweiz, I almost lost my wallet also. But thank God there are still some honest people left in this world. ^_^
When we got back, there were more people in the area - mostly Koreans and Pinoy kids. Almost all of them, especially the kids, reached the peak of the inclined wall with no sweat. Shame on me. Nyaha. So before they could crush the little spirit I had left (hehe), I firmly strapped myself into the harness and began my final ascend. On the straight wall, that is. Nyaha.
\m/(-_-)\m/
CLIMB ON!!!
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Stuck In Reverse
We had a meeting a while ago, which I thought was just about our tasks and our much anticipated Baguio trip. Sure, we had those things settled but little did I know that neither was the meat of the meeting.
Not a week has passed since Ate Lotis left for Singapore. Now, Ate Rochelle announced that she would be tendering her resignation either tomorrow or on Monday. I was utterly taken aback by the onrush of events. Sure, I knew that this day would eventually come. But I really didn't expect it to be this soon. To say that the news made me sad is to put it mildly. Coz if truth be told, I am waaay beyond sad. Ugh! I dunno. First it was Tin and then Ate Lotis and now it's Ate Rochelle. Who's next? T_T
*Sigh* I will surely miss their company, the shared laughters, the kulitans, the playful arguments, the stories, the friday night gimmicks... I'll miss all of it. I'll miss all of them.
But just like what Ate Rochelle said, the friendship will not end the moment she steps out of the office (for good). Since she will not be leaving for another country, we could still carry on with the weekly nights of dining out. That is if our work schedules would allow it. Either way, I do hope that the ties that we've built as a team will not be made loose by the miles and miles of space between us. And I hope that I'm not just hoping against hope.
I just realized that for me, Tsukiden has become the wonderful workplace that it is not so much because of the work that I do, but mostly because of the wonderful people whom I work with, the people whom I spend 8 hours or more of my day with. And now that these people are slowly thinning out, I'm no longer quite sure if it's still worth staying. Scary thought.
Not a week has passed since Ate Lotis left for Singapore. Now, Ate Rochelle announced that she would be tendering her resignation either tomorrow or on Monday. I was utterly taken aback by the onrush of events. Sure, I knew that this day would eventually come. But I really didn't expect it to be this soon. To say that the news made me sad is to put it mildly. Coz if truth be told, I am waaay beyond sad. Ugh! I dunno. First it was Tin and then Ate Lotis and now it's Ate Rochelle. Who's next? T_T
*Sigh* I will surely miss their company, the shared laughters, the kulitans, the playful arguments, the stories, the friday night gimmicks... I'll miss all of it. I'll miss all of them.
But just like what Ate Rochelle said, the friendship will not end the moment she steps out of the office (for good). Since she will not be leaving for another country, we could still carry on with the weekly nights of dining out. That is if our work schedules would allow it. Either way, I do hope that the ties that we've built as a team will not be made loose by the miles and miles of space between us. And I hope that I'm not just hoping against hope.
I just realized that for me, Tsukiden has become the wonderful workplace that it is not so much because of the work that I do, but mostly because of the wonderful people whom I work with, the people whom I spend 8 hours or more of my day with. And now that these people are slowly thinning out, I'm no longer quite sure if it's still worth staying. Scary thought.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
On To Greener Pastures
In a short span of less than a month, four of my project mates have left the company for a better deal - a better life, even. Two of them came from our team.
:: Tin Concha. Even before Tin became a VGS member, I already had the chance to work with her back in our NGN days. We were even teammates then. But not for long coz I was transferred to VGS a month later. Needless to say, we didn't become good friends at that time. Not until she was transferred to our project and became my seatmate. Since then, she became a friend and a confidante to me. She's one of the few persons in the office whom I can openly talk to about anything without fear of prodding a raised eyebrow or a leering smile. She helped me come out of my whirlpool of negative and twisted thoughts, which pulls me down from time to time. She bore with me even at times when I'm being complacently foolish. Or at least she tried to. Hehe. She trusted me with her stories. And so did I.
:: Lotis Lira. They say that first impression lasts. But with Ate Lotis, I beg to disagree. When I first joined VGS, I really thought that she was the snobbish and cranky type of person. Uhm... Well... Ok, she can get a bit cranky at times but it's not something that I can't put up with. Funny thing is that she also thought that I was snobbish and cranky. When in fact I was just being my *ehem* usual shy self. Hehe. She was my immediate superior then and I really found it difficult, if not impossible, to approach her. I kinda felt like there was this unspoken tension between us. I dunno. Nweiz, whatever it was, I'm just sooo glad it died down and was eventually replaced not just with barrels of laughter and good times, but with friendship.
An awful lot of people have resigned before them. I've heard a lot of them say their goodbyes and I've seen them walk out the doors of Tsukiden. But when Tin and Ate Lotis left, not only did I see them leave, but I also felt them leave. Maybe because I got used to having them around and I got myself attached in a way. Too attached, actually. Haiii, nakakamiss. T_T
Franz: "Di ka kasi dapat maging attached sa mga ka-team mo..."
Point taken. Oh well. As Ate Rochelle put it, "It happens". We all got left and we're all gonna leave this company at one time or another. And someday, it'll be my turn...
:: Tin Concha. Even before Tin became a VGS member, I already had the chance to work with her back in our NGN days. We were even teammates then. But not for long coz I was transferred to VGS a month later. Needless to say, we didn't become good friends at that time. Not until she was transferred to our project and became my seatmate. Since then, she became a friend and a confidante to me. She's one of the few persons in the office whom I can openly talk to about anything without fear of prodding a raised eyebrow or a leering smile. She helped me come out of my whirlpool of negative and twisted thoughts, which pulls me down from time to time. She bore with me even at times when I'm being complacently foolish. Or at least she tried to. Hehe. She trusted me with her stories. And so did I.
:: Lotis Lira. They say that first impression lasts. But with Ate Lotis, I beg to disagree. When I first joined VGS, I really thought that she was the snobbish and cranky type of person. Uhm... Well... Ok, she can get a bit cranky at times but it's not something that I can't put up with. Funny thing is that she also thought that I was snobbish and cranky. When in fact I was just being my *ehem* usual shy self. Hehe. She was my immediate superior then and I really found it difficult, if not impossible, to approach her. I kinda felt like there was this unspoken tension between us. I dunno. Nweiz, whatever it was, I'm just sooo glad it died down and was eventually replaced not just with barrels of laughter and good times, but with friendship.
An awful lot of people have resigned before them. I've heard a lot of them say their goodbyes and I've seen them walk out the doors of Tsukiden. But when Tin and Ate Lotis left, not only did I see them leave, but I also felt them leave. Maybe because I got used to having them around and I got myself attached in a way. Too attached, actually. Haiii, nakakamiss. T_T
Franz: "Di ka kasi dapat maging attached sa mga ka-team mo..."
Point taken. Oh well. As Ate Rochelle put it, "It happens". We all got left and we're all gonna leave this company at one time or another. And someday, it'll be my turn...
Thursday, September 20, 2007
The Great Wall
Boss Chris: "Averse personality yan si Kringle e..."
Well I put up a wall for a myriad of reasons. Mainly for protection - from other people, from my weaknesses and vulnerabilities, and from the cruelties of this world. But what they fail to realize is that the wall is not always there to keep people out. Sometimes, I just wanna know who cares enough to knock it down.
Well I put up a wall for a myriad of reasons. Mainly for protection - from other people, from my weaknesses and vulnerabilities, and from the cruelties of this world. But what they fail to realize is that the wall is not always there to keep people out. Sometimes, I just wanna know who cares enough to knock it down.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Under My Skin
I thought 'twas going to be a kick-ass night. Well, it was. Coz you kicked my ass. Even my face.
Being such a tease myself, I know how to take a sarcastic jab, let alone an effin' joke. They don't get to permeate my skin that easily. I don't allow them to. But it gets hard once personal issues come into play.
Franz: "Wag mo na lang pansinin yun..."
That's easy for you to say. But I can't. Try as I might, I can't. Her words were packed with a great deal of meaning and were indefatigably thrown at me like daggers. If words could kill, I would've been killed, buried, dug-up, and then killed again.
I cried not because I was hurt. I was, though, but seldom do I shed tears of pain. I cried because I was pissed off. And mind you, it was the last thing I wanted to feel. Especially now. I could've lashed out. I could've fought back. But I didn't. I didn't want to. So I cried... because there's no other way to let it out.
Being such a tease myself, I know how to take a sarcastic jab, let alone an effin' joke. They don't get to permeate my skin that easily. I don't allow them to. But it gets hard once personal issues come into play.
Franz: "Wag mo na lang pansinin yun..."
That's easy for you to say. But I can't. Try as I might, I can't. Her words were packed with a great deal of meaning and were indefatigably thrown at me like daggers. If words could kill, I would've been killed, buried, dug-up, and then killed again.
I cried not because I was hurt. I was, though, but seldom do I shed tears of pain. I cried because I was pissed off. And mind you, it was the last thing I wanted to feel. Especially now. I could've lashed out. I could've fought back. But I didn't. I didn't want to. So I cried... because there's no other way to let it out.
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