Here Finding Me

Harry Potter: The Exhibition

2011-11-27T13:51:00.003+08:00

The Harry Potter: The Exhibition

Powerhouse Museum

Sydney, Australia

19 November 2011 - 18 March 2012

My Note: Hmmmmm...

Rizal at 150 Today

2011-06-19T10:50:00.004+08:00

Thank you for instilling in all of us the value of love of country, love of our race, and most especially, making us proud to be Filipino.

Photo of our hero's bust was taken during a trip to historic Taal, Batangas.

Happy Birthday

2011-06-06T22:59:00.003+08:00

Thank you, Lord for sharing Mommy with us. I know she is happy and well. I know she's with Dad watching, guiding us. Thank you. Amen. Happy Birthday. I Love You, Mama.

My Friday Song

2011-04-18T22:25:00.012+08:00

This year, I have been given more responsibilities in the office (as if I didn't have enough on my hands). I welcome these new challenges with open arms *fingers crossed*

To celebrate Fridays (I still love Thursdays though), I will have Usher's DJ Got Us Falling In Love Again on high volume and on repeat on my iPod.

I thank God the week is done,
I feel like a zombie gone back to life (ba-back to life)
Hands-up, and suddenly we all got our hands-up

14 Years Today

2011-04-11T07:23:00.001+08:00

I still miss you, Dad.

Advice I Don’t Get Everyday

2011-03-18T23:52:00.003+08:00

“Rhea, I’m telling you now, don’t ever get married.”

It’s not very often that I get this advice from married friends (Thank God for that!). Only when there’s trouble in their marriage.

Of course, I’m for marriage and all that. No doubt about it.

So, why give this kind of advice:

It’s either…

1. …there’s another woman;

2. …there’s another woman; or

3. …there’s another woman.

Of my friends who have had problems in their marriage (or relationships), all of them were because of the presence of “another woman.”

It’s true.

So, you ask, what is my point?

None. I am not trying to make a point.

Actually, I’m quite confused.

It’s just a contrast to what relatives ask during reunions or get-togethers:

“O Rhea, ilang taon ka na nga ba?”

“(muffled answer) po.”

“May boyfriend ka ba?”

“Ngayon po, wala.” My standard answer.

“Aba, mag-asawa ka na!”

“Opo, next week po.”

ANYWAY…I should have titled this entry: Of Marriage, Men and Confusion.

Nonrandom Thoughts #2

2011-03-08T20:31:00.006+08:00

Enjoy what you have now rather than want something that you know can never be yours.

Amazing!

2011-02-22T23:15:00.004+08:00

Took me only 51 minutes to renew my driver's license. For a government agency, this is a big improvement.

Went to the LTO near the office this afternoon. The requirements:

1. Current/Expired License Card (plus photocopy of receipt and card)
2. Medical Certificate (from LTO accredited or Government Physician) or valid AFP/PNP organic personnel ID (taken at the LTO accredited drug testing center right beside the LTO)
3. Drug Clearance Certificate (from an LTO accredited drug testing center) (there are peeing centers aka toilets inside the drug testing center).
4. Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN) (I left mine blank, should be okay without it)

The whole procedure:

1. At the LTO, I was asked to fill up the Driver's License Application Form after inspecting my driver's license. Proceeded to the Evaluator to have my documents checked for completeness and authenticity. The Evaluator then asked me to go to the drug testing center next door.

2. At window 1 of the drug testing center, I submitted the forms and paid the Php400 processing fee. A staff just outside the windows gave more forms to fill up.

3. After a few minutes, a person at window 2 called my name for picture taking and finger printing (actually, digital finger printing).

4. Once done with the forms (given in step 2 above), I gave them back and was told that my name will be called for the actual testing. When I was called, I was asked to sign on a strip of packing tape and was given a plastic cup. After that, I found out what the signed strip of packing tape was for.

5. After that, a number tag was given to me and was asked again to wait for my number to be called. I was number 53.

6. I then realized that the next step was the medical doctor's interview and eye test. I was asked if I wore glasses, I said no but told him I had laser operations on both eyes. I was then asked to stand behind a white strip on the floor and asked to read the eye test chart. I could read the 20/20 but not the 20/10 (missed a letter).

7. After a few minutes, they called again my name for the result of the drug test. Negative!

8. Now back to the LTO next door. Submitted the forms, had picture taken, paid Php415+ and voila! new driver's license in 51 minutes.

Kudos to LTO!

Nonrandom Thoughts

2011-02-10T14:28:00.004+08:00

Do not expect anything in return, do not expect your efforts to be appreciated, your genius to be discovered, your love to be understood.

From Paul Coelho's Blog

Things to Do or Visit in Sydney after 5:00pm

2011-01-03T18:03:00.026+08:00

I was in Sydney, Australia for 3 weeks (and 1 day) for work. For those who are not aware of it, most shops close at 5:00pm everyday, including some tourist spots and museums. Since I go to work Mondays to Fridays, the only time I could see the city was after 5:00pm and on weekends (that's when I'm not with my relatives). So I thought of coming up with a list of places a Sydney visitor could do or visit after office hours.

1. Darling Harbour - Just 10-15 minutes walk from Wynyard Park (where my office is located). Sites which are open all day and night include Tumbalong Park, Cockle Bay Wharf, Pyrmont Bridge, Darling Park, Sydney Aquarium (closes at 8:00pm). There is also a ferris wheel infront of the Chinese Garden of Friendship (no, didn't have the courage to ride it alone). Entrance is free (as for the ferris wheel ride, I don't think so).

Darling Harbour at night

Pyrmont Bridge

Liverpool corner Sussex Streets

The ferris wheel infront of the Chinese Garden of Friendship

2. Sydney Aquarium - Also located in Darling Harbour. I would say the highlight of the park is what they call the Sydney Aquarium Experience which features the vegetarian Dugongs (Pig and Wuru) and the scary Sharks (in separate aquariums I suppose). Entrance Fee: Adult=A$34.99/Child=A$17.99.*

Shark aquarium

The Dugongs eating their veggies

Upside down jellyfish

Confirmed: There are sharks in Sydney's beaches

3. Sydney Tower - Closes at 10:30pm although I think it's better to visit the place during the day. It's the tallest building in Sydney at 880 feet. At the Observation Deck, you get a 360 degree view of Sydney. The other attractions are the Skywalk (a breathtaking outdoor tour on the roof top) and the OzTrek ride. Entrance Fee: Adult=A$24.99/Child=A$14.99.*

Sydney Tower from below

Darling Harbour from the tower

4. Sydney Opera House - A visit to Sydney will never be complete without visiting the iconic Opera House. Incidentally, Oprah visited Sydney while I was there. She was always on the top of the news (I Love Oprah shirts were sold at A$29.00. A$34.00 on the shooting day itself -- it was that crazy). Entrance is free but the guided tour will cost you A$35.00.

The Opera House from the Harbour Bay. The small box on the right was the stage used for the Oprah show.

The Opera House from the Royal Botanic Gardens

Almost near the Opera Bar

5. Royal Botanic Gardens - Just beside the Opera House. A beautiful garden overlooking the harbour. They say Mrs. Macquarie's Chair is the best spot to photograph or view the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. I regret not reaching that area of the Garden but it's at the top of my list when I visit Sydney again. Entrance is free.

Sydney Tropical Centre Pyramid

The Royal Botanic Gardens from the stairs of the Opera House

6. Kmart / Coles / Woolworths - Open daily and closes as late as midnight (better to check their website against your location). My "feel good" stores :)

7. Sydney Town Hall - Located farther down George Street (near Queen Victoria Building) and atop the busy Town Hall Station. Must visit at night when it's colorfully lit (or was it just because it was Christmas season?).

8. Bondi Beach - About 40 minutes bus ride from Circular Quay. Australia's world famous beach, although some say it's better to go to the other beaches in Sydney because its getting to be too "touristy." Note to self: Should do the Bondi to Cogee Walk next time.

9. Chinatown - At the southern end of Darling Harbour, near the Entertainment Center. This is the best place to buy cheap souvenirs. Some shops are open until 9:00pm. The Chinatown Night Market is only every Friday on Dixon Street until 11:00pm.

10. Ride the Ferry, the Bus, and the Trains - No worries, they all have websites. Ferry to Taronga Zoo. Free Bus rides on George. Trains to the Suburbs.

Things to do or Places to visit next time:

11. Take a ride on the Sydney Monorail - Round and round Sydney central business district for as low as A$9.50 (Monorail Day Pass).

12. Take a ride on the Sydney Lightrail - Will take you from Central to Lilyfield in 25 minutes. A$4.80 for a return ticket. Think "joyride" for both rails without the adrenalin rush.

13. Sydney Observatory - Open for night visits. "Bookings are necessary for night sessions." Night charges for telescope/3D theatre sessions is A$17.00.

14. Art Gallery of New South Wales - Closes at 5:00pm everyday, except Wednesdays when they close at 9:00pm.

15. Archibald Fountain - Located at the center of Hyde Park near Elizabeth Avenue. The statue is actually of Apollo and not J.F. Archibald, the owner of the Australian magazine, The Bulletin (my bad). Missed this in my walking tour of Sydney.

16. Hyde Park Obelisk - Located also in Hyde Park at the corner of Elizabeth and Bathurst.

17. Sydney Harbour Night Cruise - Should do it next time.

18. Harbour Bridge Climb (Night Climb) - Need I say more.

Take advantage of the Thursday Sho-pping day where most shops are open until 9pm.

Also, avail of the Explore 4 Combo Pass for the Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower, Sydney Wildlife World and Oceanworld Manly (A$49.99).

If you have an iPhone or an iPod Touch, download the City Walks - Sydney (developed by GPSmyCity.com) for suggested walking tours and maps (from iTunes US$4.99).

More pictures to be posted soon of other sites I visited together with my notes on my trip.

Cheers!

2011

2010-12-31T22:44:00.001+08:00

Happy New Year

Everyone!!!

My Favorite Aussie Commercials

2010-12-27T00:03:00.005+08:00

Oh, yeah, I was in the land down under for 3 weeks for work. Will blog about it in the next few days. Meanwhile, just wanted to share my favorite commercials while in Sydney.

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-26T23:56:00.002+08:00

Busy as a Bee...

2010-11-10T21:52:00.002+08:00

Sorry.

I've been very busy with office work lately.

Been wanting to blog about something but never got to start it.

Perhaps an inspiration would help...*sigh*

Later.

44th day

2010-10-07T22:03:00.005+08:00

Today's the 44th day since it happened. Saw this in my friend's FB and it says it all.

Image used with permission from my SPCP batchmate, Lizza Gutierrez. Please visit her website.

Just Like in "Ratatouille"

2010-08-15T22:42:00.005+08:00

Have you gone lately to St. Francis Square in Ortigas? Most likely you have seen the Manila Scramble near the entrance. "Scramble?" you might ask. Yes! That pink glob with crushed ice that we enjoyed when we were kids (yes "we" -- you and me)! I know it's street food, but it was one of the best street food back then.

When I first saw the stand the other day, I couldn't believe that it was THE SCRAMBLE with the oh so familiar pink color. My friend R bought one for himself but I was so full already (this was after lunch). I told myself I'll comeback to try it one of these days.

When my sister and I went to SFS this afternoon, we tried it and all I could say was, "The taste brought back so much memory" with a big grin, of course. Sayang, I wasn't able to take pictures.

By the way, you can also choose a topping or 2 (or even 3) to go with your scramble. We ordered the regular (no topping), too bad, it did not come with the red sago (tapioca!). That would have completed my raving.

You should go and try it yourself...and you know what, they also gave a small spoon, but I remember "drinking" it with no spoon. HA! Now I remember, it's the original BRAIN FREEZE!

Batangas Weekend

2010-08-02T22:32:00.016+08:00

J invited us for a relaxing weekend in her hometown in Batangas. Unfortunately, only the 2 of us (P and I) were available. K was needed by her household (and husband), M was going to be busy preparing for her son's birthday party that same weekend, G was going to watch Cats, and R wanted to just rest over the weekend. So it was just the 3 of us. They'll just see our pictures in FB. Ha!

We left Manila around 5:30am to avoid the weekend traffic and to catch the early morning chill of Tagaytay.

Our first stop was breakfast in Tagaytay. After an hour and a half of driving from Manila, we finally arrived in the second summer capital of the Philippines (also called the Philippine's Best Kept Secret). The road was covered in fog and it was very cold! Brrrr!

We had breakfast at Pancake House. We had pancake (what else!) and shared a large plate of pasta. Yummy! After breakfast, we moved next door to Starbucks. It was still foggy and it rained a bit. After some time, it cleared up, still a bit foggy but clear enough to take pictures of Taal Volcano. Did you know that its a volcano within a lake?

J pointed to us Mt. Makulot, which is the mountain behind Taal Volcano. Now we know.

Next stop was Sonya's Garden but before leaving, I bought 2 scarves at the souvenir stand near the parking area. One red for my sister and another one for myself :)

At Sonya's Garden, before buying goodies from their Panaderia, we went around the garden and took pictures. It's a good thing they now have the Bed and Breakfast. Oh yeah, we bought spanish bread, pan de coco (E said it should be Pan de Pandan because of the green color of the "coco"), and hopia. I also bought their bottled Tilapia in Olive Oil (Rose said it's good).

Around 11am, we left Tagaytay and drove to historic Taal. Aside from being known for Taal Volcano, it is also home to famous people in Philippine history. We first went to the Agoncillo House, the ancestral home of Dona Marcela Marino de Agoncillo, the principal seamstress of the first and official flag of the Philippines, gaining her the title of Mother of the Philippine Flag. It was sewn in Hong Kong and the same flag that General Emilo Aguinaldo waved in Cavite in 1898 during the independence of the Philippines. The old house is big, spacious, and well kept. The first floor had been converted to a museum, with the basement used as a location for exhibits and storage of more old stuff.

Next stop was the Don Leon Apacible Museum. Don Leon Apacible was a lawyer and judge. He was appointed finance office of Batangas and delegate to the Malolos Congreess. This ancestral home of Don Leon Apacible was converted to a museum with the first floor showing old pictures during the American period and family treasures on the second floor.

Next stop was the Basilica of St. Martin or more popularly known as the Basilica de San Martin de Tours, the biggest Catholic Basilica Church in the Far East. I've heard of the name of the church before but its the first time I visited the church. Within the vicinity of the church is the Taal Park.

By 1:00pm, we arrived in J's family's Pamintahan ni Ka Andoy in Alitagtag, Batangas, better known as the Pepperidge Farm, for lunch.

After a long siesta at the Pepperidge, we went to Valentino Resort and Spa, a 20+ minute drive to the neighboring town of San Jose, for a much needed massage. After all that walking and talking the whole day, we needed that massage.

The next day, we were back in Valentino Resort and Spa to bask in the sun and, oh yeah, to swim ;)

After swimming, we left San Jose around 1:30pm to look for Batangas' version of Lomi. We found a small carinderia along the long highway going back to Alitagtag. J ordered inihaw na baboy and rice that came with free soup and after P and I were already busog, the lomi came, served in a medium-sized bowl but was filled to the rim. Shamefully, we didn't finish the delicious lomi (the lomi itself was a full meal already) --- there's always a next time ;)

After that stomach filling lunch, we went back to Alitagtag for siesta.

At around 4:30pm, we had to bid the Pepperidge goodbye. J stayed behind to be with her family and will just come to the office the next day. On our way to Manila, we stopped by Tagaytay to have dinner at Cafe Breton. I had Deja Vu and P had La Pinay and coffee.

To cap off our relaxing weekend, we stayed a few minutes more to soak up Tagaytay and Taal Volcano.

At 8:30pm-ish, we were back in Manila! Back to reality! Back to the GRIND!

Happy Birthday, Dad

2010-07-30T22:52:00.001+08:00

Miss you!

He would have been 66 today.

My Midyear Resolutions

2010-07-27T22:38:00.004+08:00

1. No unnecessary purchases. Purchases will only be for clothes, shoes, gas, grocery stuff. No gadgets in the meantime (so much for the new digicam I've been eyeing for).

2. Save up for a garden set for our terrace (we want the one similar to the garden chair used in the park scene in Notting Hill).

Well, not really the same. Maybe "almost" would best describe it.

3. Save up for HBs trip next year. K & I have been assigned to do the itinerary. No destination yet, though.

4. Play badminton once a week.

5. Go to the gym at least thrice a week.

6. No sweets (candies, cakes, pastries, colas, etc.).

7. I have been coming in to work early, before 8am in fact, for the past month or so. My motivation: slot at the basement parking & I get to hang out with office friends at breakfast. I hope to keep this up.

8. No to rice (this is a big challenge so good luck to me).

9. Eat more veggies and fruits.

10. Back to oatmeal for breakfast.

Wish me luck!

Picture from www.gel.com.au

Safety Video (Have to share this)

2010-07-25T23:08:00.005+08:00

Thomson Airways Safety Video 2009

Random Pics - Part 3

2010-07-20T22:32:00.009+08:00

Ocean Adventure, Subic

View from our vila in Palm Beach, Batangas (low tide)

M-i-c-k-e-y M-o-u-s-e!

Group pic!

Where else?

At One Tagaytay

UP Los Banos

The view from BSA Twin Towers

My unit (I wish!!!)

Getting new tint :)

My nephew Raymund, still with his patient name tag.

Davao!

More to come!

I Feel Good!

2010-07-10T17:26:00.006+08:00

Having stopped playing badminton sometime in 2007 because of a sprained ankle and for personal reasons, I am playing again every Friday...and it feels good!!!

Aside from the FUN of playing badminton with the Friday group, I have gained new friends.

I will still keep going regularly to the gym (at least 3 times a week *fingers crossed *) and the most important thing for me right now: NO INJURIES, PLEASE!

Photo courtesy of Pam :)

Looking Forward To...

2010-07-04T14:56:00.002+08:00

...upcoming 2 trips (first one will be with friends and the other with my sister)

...moving to our new room (perhaps in 2 weeks)

...new sofa (will upload pictures soon when they get delivered)

...new foot stools shaped like a puzzle =)

...new bathroom (now being renovated)

...new mags and tires for my car --- if and when there's still moolah left *fingers crossed*

...UAAP Season 73! It's DLSU vs UP on opening day!! Go La Salle!

It's An Elevator Thing

2010-07-03T20:39:00.005+08:00

Have you been asked:
Who would you like to get stuck with in the elevator?

Usually, it would be somebody you have a crush on. I.D.E.A.L.L.Y.

Unfortunately, the other morning, on the elevator ride to my floor, of all people, I got stuck with one of the bosses in my department. JUST THE TWO OF US!!! He's one of those who I dread to talk to or have something signed by him. If you have something for him to sign, he'll have at least one question related to the document and you should be ready with the answer. Never fails, I tell you. You'll be forced to review the policies.

Anyway, good thing it just stopped for a few seconds. We got out and got on another elevator. WHEW!!

One big Ughhhh.

Hey, gotta go. Gonna watch those vamps and doggies again :p

Wishes...

2010-06-23T22:44:00.000+08:00

Can we pretend that airplanes
In the night sky
Are like shooting stars
I could really use a wish right now

Have you ever wished real hard hoping it would be granted? right away?
...that you wished something you want will happen?
...or that you wished the opposite happened?
...or that you wished that it did not happen at all?

I have. A couple of times. During desperate times.

When my mom was sick.
When I blew my top over a simple misunderstanding.
When I made wrong choices, wrong decisions.
When something bad happened to my family or my friends.
Or things I regret saying.

I don't think there's anything wrong with wishing or desiring.
But I have accepted the fact that there are things that cannot be undone.
I just leave it all to Him.

First four lines taken from the song "Airplanes" by B.o.B (featuring Hayley Williams)

Asar Kwento #2

2010-06-22T16:18:00.006+08:00

Monday, 21 June 2010
Email received at 7:52AM

Dear Rhea,
Could you please arrange transport to pick up Ms. Bossing this afternoon from the airport at 03:45.
She's arriving via ***Air.

Me - Hmmm...in the "afternoon" pero "03:45" - malabo. And besides, kulang info.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Email sent at 8:26AM

Ms. Bossing's Assistant,

Please provide full flight details, including Mission Authorization Request number and where the car will bring her.

Me - yaaaan! pag sinagot, mas malinaw na, diba?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Email received at 9:50AM

Rhea,

We don't know the flight details.
And place where she will stay.
I asked Ms. Bossing's other assistant regarding this, but he also doesn't know.

Me: DUHHHHHH?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?
(I almost fell off my chair! She probably thinks I'm a fortune teller!!)

Ending:
I emailed back:

So how can I arrange for transport?
Without these details, I won't be able to assist you in your request. Sorry.

I wonder what happened to Ms. Bossing? :P

Missing

2010-06-21T22:00:00.003+08:00

I lost my office ID tonight :(

That means:
When I come in tomorrow, I would need to present my VB card to the guards.
I won't be able to park in the basement parking.
I have no choice but to park outside (where its hot, hot, hot. Worse if it rains.)
I need to go to the reception because they'll be taking my picture for the temporary ID. (Hindi pa naman ako photogenic :P)

But the positive side to it:
I'll have no need to leave the house early, I'll be parking outside anyway.
BUT I will have to miss having breakfast with my office friends...

Haaaay. Hassle.

I hope somebody found it and will bring it to Security. Or better yet, I get a phone call, hopefully from somebody interesting, and say, "Hey, I've got your ID. I can give it to you over coffee." Hahaha. Asa pa!

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T09:01:00.004+08:00

What Makes a Dad

God took the strength of a mountain,
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,
The calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature,
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages,
The power of the eagle's flight,
The joy of a morning in spring,
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,
The depth of a family need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
And so, He called it ... Dad.
(Author Unknown)

Happy Father's Day, Dad. I love you. I miss you.

HFD to all Dads out there, too.

HB's Independence Day Weekend

2010-06-16T23:07:00.003+08:00

Me, Bex, Carmie, Hazel and Karen in Palm Beach, Batangas.

Back To School

2010-06-15T20:02:00.003+08:00

No, not me.

Summer is over and traffic is back. I felt it this morning when I was going to the office.

I usually pass through Boni, left on Sheridan Street, then out to EDSA. In less than 15 minutes, am in the office.

But this morning, as I was exiting EDSA, I was surprised (duh?) that it was all clogged up. So I had to leave EDSA by turning right to Reliance and out to Pioneer (Kapitolyo).

Ugggghhh. Good thing I still was able to get a slot at the basement parking or else it would have been a bad morning for me.

Gosh! I think I have to leave the house earlier.

Happy Birthday, Mama!

2010-06-06T11:04:00.004+08:00

Hi, Ma! I miss you so much.

I miss you...everyday!

I love you!

It's my Mom's birthday today. She would have been 66.

Here Comes The Rain

2010-06-01T20:33:00.002+08:00

Forecast from weather.msn.com

Ang INIIIIIIIIIT

2010-05-24T07:33:00.004+08:00

Pagkatapos magshower - ANG INIT
Paglabas ng bahay - ANG INIT
Pag pasok ng sasakyan - ANG INIT
Pagbaba ng sasakyan - ANG INIT
Pag lumabas ka ng tanghali - ANG INIT
Pag labas ng opisina sa hapon - ANG INIT
Sasakay na naman sa kotseng buong araw nabilad sa araw - ANG INIT
Pagbaba ng sasakyan - ANG INIT
Pagpasok sa kwartong mainit - ANG INIT
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
SAUNAAAAAA!!!

What's happening Thailand?

2010-05-22T21:11:00.010+08:00

It's just so sad that this happened in Thailand.

A lot of properties have been damaged, including Bangkok's iconic landmark, Central World. Lives have been lost. Many are injured.

I pray that everything goes back to normal. I pray for the people of Thailand.

First picture is from the Boston Globe and second and third from the Bangkok Post.

Am I Selfish?

2010-05-19T21:56:00.004+08:00

I don't think I'm a selfish person.

But when a person abuses my kindness, that's when I get pissed off.

Then they think I'm a selfish person.

Irresponsible Driving

2010-05-18T20:13:00.003+08:00

Arghhhh!!!

Have you seen a driver wearing headphones? How about a driver talking on his mobile phone? How about a driver smoking? ALL AT THE SAME TIME?????

I did! Tonight! I think my blood pressure shot up! All I could do was move away from him. I should have taken a picture of that *&^$*(@#^$ guy!

Shame on you!

My Macau and Hong Kong Trip Top 10

2010-03-28T22:32:00.021+08:00

Thanks to Cebu Pacific's 50% off promo in December 2009, we were able to book our trip to Macau. Since I knew my travel mates this time were all "essential" staff--well let's just say that they're always busy, I decided to take everything into my own hands (meaning everything from hotel booking, the detailed itinerary, budget estimate for transport, food, museum fees, etc.) and all they needed to do was show up at the airport. They just needed to pack their bags and bring their precious dollars.

After landing at the Macau International Airport around 10:20pm, we changed some USD to HKD to spend for taxi fare and possibly dinner that night. Before this gets any longer, here's my Top 10:

1. Sights - particularly the enchanting Ruins of St. Paul and the Macau Tower. By the way, it's better to go first to the Macau Museum before going to the Ruins. There's a portion in the museum where they explain what the different sections of the Ruin's facade represents (which is very interesting). Special thanks to Lonely Planet's suggested walking tour of Macau :)

2. Metropole Hotel - The hotel is walking distance to Leal Senado, Senado Square, St. Dominic's Church, the Cathedral, the Ruins of St. Paul and the beautiful Lisboa and Wynn hotels. Good restaurants are located near the hotel. My requests for very late check-in (between 10-11pm) and for 2 twin beds were both accommodated. These requests were made upon booking with agoda.com. We were very pleased that they took note of these. Our first two nights were spent in Macau, a night in Hongkong and back for another night in Macau. Metropole was kind enough to keep our luggages while we were in Hong Kong which was a big relief for us. Highly recommended.

3. Shuttle bus service -- Metropole Hotel and The Venetian -- We availed of the free shuttle bus service of Metropole and Venetian. Very convenient. Tipid pa sa transpo :)

4. The jaw dropping grandeur of The Venetian where we also watched Cirque du Soleil's ZAIA!

5. Churches of Macau

Sto. Domingo Church - after a few steps from Senado Square, it would be difficult to miss this yellow church with green shutters. Built in 1828, Sto. Domingo Church remains to be one of the most beautiful churches in Macau.

Macau Cathedral - Originally built in 1576, the Cathedral has gone through a couple of restructuring. This is where we joined the Portuguese language Sunday mass in Macau.

St. Anthony Church (Sao Antonio Macau) - a good 10 minute walk from the Ruins, the church is believed to be the very first one in Macau.

That was four churches (including the Ruins). My friend Alfie commented "It's like doing the Visita Iglesia in Macau!"

6. 11 degree chillness in Macau - We caught the last few days of winter. We didn't need the hotel aircon. We needed a heater. That's how cold it was. But we loved it!

7. Shopping - We had fun shopping for bags, souvenirs, shirts, food and anywhere there was a sale!

8. New World First Ferry - For our trip to Hong Kong, we used the NWFF. Although there was a "lost in translation" episode with the NWFF staff (we asked where we should buy the NWFF tickets, they pointed to the left, when it was actually on the right), it was a pleasant ride.

9. Hong Kong Disneyland and the Sunny Bay MTR line - The main purpose why we went to Hong Kong was to visit Mickey Mouse and the gang...and we were not disappointed. Sunny Bay MTR pa lang, pwede na! (It was raining when we were there and most of the mascots were no where in sight, except for Buzz Lightyear)

10. The delicious BBQ chicken wings at the Starliner Diner in Tomorrowland (Hong Kong Disneyland). Fingerlooking good!!!

More pics here.

GO TEAM CANADA!! !

To you from me and my family

2009-12-25T01:42:00.003+08:00

Random Pics - Part 2

2009-12-12T16:12:00.006+08:00

Tagaytay!

SWR!

Ortigas Christmas Tree!

3 eyed Green Alien (from Toy Story)

Guess what?

What is she doing?

Fun at the Park!

Canyon Woods, Tagaytay

"Self-contained"????

Boo!

Stripper?

Locked in Los Banos, Laguna!

At a Lacquer ware store in HCMC.

Ewwwwww!!!

2 Pictures That Made Me Laugh Today

2009-12-01T23:11:00.002+08:00

Winner!!!

Warning: If you're 18 & below, the picture below is not for you.

Of Books and Deliveries...

2009-11-28T23:03:00.006+08:00

Since last week, excited about our next trip (which is still in September 2010 hahahahaha), my sister and I have been going around Manila's bookstores for a particular travel guide book. We did find one at National bookstore at Shang but it was already removed from its plastic, it didn't look new, it was creased and just plain ugly (note that these travel books are worth more than PhP1,000) and it was the only copy. So I decided to have it ordered from this popular travel guide company's website.

On Tuesday, 17 November, availing of their buy 3-pay 2 only promo, I ordered 2 city guide books and one phrase book. (Actually, there was some problem [double order] when I went online but the staff at the online consumer shop sales was a big help and was able to cancel the second one -- thanks, Amanda!) The next day, I received the confirmation email saying that the books have been shipped (Yey!). Expected delivery date is Friday, 20 November 2009 (double Yey!). So I waited and waited (keeping tabs on the tracking services). Finally, by 20 November, the package arrived in Paranaque (sort facility). But I was still keeping my fingers crosssed that they'd deliver it that day. When I got home, I asked people at home if a package was delivered. None they said. When I tracked the package, it was still "Int'l shipment release - location Paranaque PH." So I called their local partner's number and inquired the status (because I was expecting it to be delivered on 20 November) and said that it was still in Paranaque and might be delivered on Monday. Arghhhhh.

Next day Saturday, out of curiosity, I tracked again the package and it showed that it was "At local xx facility - Pasig PH." I was thinking, it might get delivered today after all. Great! I checked their website and yes, they do deliver on Saturdays. So I called the company and inquired if it will be delivered today (kulit!). The call agent said that it was still for release and cannot assure me that it will be delivered today but had already put a red tag on the delivery. By this time, I was still hoping that I will get the package anytime, or else, Monday it is.

After lunch, I tracked the package and the entries were 21 November 10:33AM "On xxxx vehicle for delivery - location PASIG PH" and 21 November 10:35AM "Delivery exception - Pasig PH - Held, unable to collect payment" and 12:20PM "At local xx facility - Paranaque PH" Wait a minute! Something's not right. Before I called, I asked people at home if a package was delivered or if a delivery person came, again they said none. So I called the company and inquired. I asked why was the package returned to Paranaque, and why was the tracking message showing "Held, unable to collect payment" when no one from the company came to deliver? The call agent put me on hold and when she came back she said "Sorry po, Ma'm. Wala pong delivery truck na available kanina. Pag ganun po, binabalik sa Paranaque office." ARGHHHHH! Walang delivery truck pero merong truck na ginamit pagbalik sa Paranaque? ARGHHHHH!

Oh well. So much for additional courier delivery of US$20. Ughhhh!

So, no chance of getting the package on Sunday (they're closed on Sundays). We all have to rest.

Monday. When I got home, expecting that the package was waiting for me, I was welcomed by "Ate, meron pa daw babayaran, kaya hindi iniwan yung package." The additional was PhP1,665 for duties and taxes. This made me upset again. HOW COME I TALKED TO THEM ON THE PHONE TWICE ON SATURDAY AND THEY NEVER TOLD ME THAT I HAD TO PAY THIS AMOUNT. HOW COME????????

Of course, I had to make another phone call. This time, the call agent was apologetic. I said this is unacceptable. The call agents even confirmed my contact numbers last Saturday and they didn't even bother to call to inform me that I had to pay this amount????

Waahhhhhh!

Ending: It was delivered the next day. US$20 + PhP1,665 + cost of the books. Took them 7 days (still better than ordinary mail which will take 3-4 weeks).

Anyway, I love the books. It was all worth it. Bad experience lang. But I will give them another chance...Let's see (sana nakalimutan na nila pangalan ko bwahahahahahahahaha)

(If you are able to figure out the companies involved, or would like to know who they are, let me know)

Whoa!!! Buzzzzzzz....

2009-11-26T21:11:00.004+08:00

...that's the sound people made inside the cinema right after Jacob did his thing.

Literally, a loud :O

I love Jake na!

Congratulations, Manny!!!

2009-11-15T16:33:00.002+08:00

Photograph: Gabriel Buoys/AFP/Getty Images

Aja Aja FIGHTING!

2009-11-13T21:53:00.003+08:00

From 2327: CEBUPACIFIC would like to inform you that your booking is on hold. Please settle payment through our Call Center at +6327020888 or by visiting the ticket office near you. Thank you!
10 November 2009
8:59 AM

Remember the recent Piso Fare promo from Cebu Pacific? Just before typhoon Pepeng was to hit Metro Manila?

30 October (email around 3:30pm): Cebu Pacific Air announces their Piso Fare promo, booking starts now until 2 November (or until the 100,000 promo seats are sold out) for travel from 15 June 2009 to 30 September 2010.

Planned with friends. Until one friend decided to book something tomorrow. Nothing booked.

31 October (around 3:30am): I booked a round trip travel for 2 for 2010. But the system could not authenticate my credit card (I tried thrice and kept getting an error message). After another try, the message showed that I should change my method of payment. Choices were Credit Card (does not work), Bancnet/Megalink (okay but...), BDO (not convenient for me), Metrobank (perfect!). The website led me to another page saying that blah blah blah is your confirmation number, that I can pay over-the-counter at any Metrobank branch or by phone or online (as long as I have an account). It also asked me to tick a box with my mobile number (ticked) for communication purposes. It also mentioned that the booking will be put on hold but I have to pay before 11:59PM today or else the booking will be canceled. Fine. Will just pay later. So happy!

31 October (6:00am): Brown out. No power. No internet.

All along I was waiting for Cebu Pacific to send me the Reference number which I will use to pay the bill. They asked for my mobile phone, right? None came.

31 October (6:00pm) (Still no power. No internet): I call Cebu Pacific's Call Center

Me: I booked a flight for MNL-___-MNL for 2010 (details given), but I have not received any reference number that I assumed will be sent via my cell phone. (I told him my story that their system would not accept my credit card which I have used to pay CP in the past). Your system asked me to choose another payment method and I opted to pay via Metrobank.
(in between he'd ask for my name, if I made the reservation and if I'm the traveller)

CP Call Center Agent: Ma'm, pag promo fare po, hindi applicable ang payment via Metrobank. Dapat po ang pinili nyo yung Bancnet/Megalink.

Me: Whaaaaaaat? (nagtaas na ang boses ko). E di sana, pag ganyang promo, hindi nyo sinasama yan sa choices, o kaya e merong nakalagay na dapat gamitin ang Bancnet/Megalink...Kahit meron na akong confirmation number?

CP Call Center Agent: Confirmation number lang po iyon, hindi pa po bayad. Pag bayad na po tsaka lang po siya magiging final. (Me: oo nga naman)

Me: So anong gagawin ko?

CP Call Center Agent: Kailangan nyo po uling mag-book ng panibago.

Sa loob loob ko, hindi mo ba alam kung gaano kahirap magbook sa inyo? At kung gaano kabilis maubos pag ganyang may promo? Pero hindi ko na sinabi sa kanya.

Me: Ok (sabay bagsak ng telepono). Naririnig ko pa siyang nagsasalita, pero dahil sa inis ko, naibaba ko agad tuloy.

Dahil nga brown out, we went to our Tita's house to spend the night and at the same time, to use their computer and internet and book again the same flight.

Lo and behold, when I typed in our preferred schedule, it showed "No promo seats available." I was thinking, maybe for these dates only. How about other dates. Same. How about to another country. Same. Only then did I realise, ubos na ang alloted promo seats :(

Lungkot kame.

On Monday during lunch, all my friends were happy because they were able to book flight for BKK, HKG, etc. Ako, wala ako maishare. *sulk*

Tanggap ko na. Tanggap na namen. Next time na lang.

Tapos I got the text :) Please see above for the text message from Cebu Pacific.

They did not cancel my booking (good thing I did not cancel the booking). The Call Center Agent asked me if I still want to use the booking. Sabi ko yes, as long as the amount will be the same as when I booked it. He said he will check. After putting me on hold for more than 10 minutes, he came back and said "Yes." He asked for my credit card number. I was put again on hold so he could have my card authenticated. Yun nga ayaw. So he said my other option was to pay at the nearest CP ticketing office. Nearest was Robinson's Galleria. So after having lunch, I went to Galleria to pay for the ticket. If you pay at the ticketing office, you'll be asked to pay for the airport tax, which I did.

I walked back to the office with the piece of paper (e-ticket) and a smile on my face. Wheeeeee!!!

Be Part of the Solution, Not Part of the Problem

2009-11-11T22:12:00.003+08:00

Kita na ngang traffic e. Arghhhh!

My Vietnam Top 10

2009-10-18T22:03:00.044+08:00

1. Ho Chi Mihn City (HCMC) is a challenging place to cross the street (imagine 100+ motorcycles--throw in a couple of Innova taxis and even big trucks---at night) coming in from your left and right. CHALLENGING! But after a few days of crossing the streets of HCMC, you'll notice that they do make extra effort not to hit you. Just walk and ignore them (good luck!)

Taken on our way home from a trip.

2. I learned to count in Vietnamese from 1 to 10 (from my new friend, 4 year-old, Chiqui).

That's Pam, Chiqui, Aivy and me. Darrell took the picture.

Chiqui is Darrell's niece (based in HCMC)

3. Lost in Translation story --- On our way to the Mekong Delta (My Tho & Ben Tre), the tour bus made a stop at a gas station. We decided to go down to buy some chichiria. It was raining (just a quick downpour) that time. When it was my turn to pay, thinking that it's healthy to do some small talk with the lady at the cashier, I asked her, "Does it rain here everyday?" A simple question really. Not realizing that Vietnamese are not that adept with the English language, she replied, with confusion all over her face, "Huh?" So I repeated my question, this time slowly and hopefully clearly. She finally replied (in a hurried manner) "Yes, over there" pointing to the rain outside. So not to insult her or anything, and also for my or rather our safety (are familiar with the word "kuyug"?), I just politely replied, "Ahhhh. Thank you" and walked away. *grin*

4. Highlands Coffee. They said Trung Nguyen is the Starbucks of HCMC. We, unfortunately, weren't able to go to any of their cafes. We saw a lot of Highlands Coffee around HCMC. Having worked for more than 10 years serving Pacific countries, I thought Highlands carried Papua New Guinea coffee. I was wrong. Highlands Coffee is actually Vietnamese-owned and only serves the finest coffee grown in Vietnam. What we actually love about Highlands Coffee (particularly the branch near our hotel, Pham Ngu Lao cor. Nhuyen Thai Hoc Sts.) were the free use of wifi and laptops (they had around 4 laptops for customers) and the nice view on the second floor where we people-watched (e.g., bikers, taxis, street crossers, overnight buses, pirated Lonely Planet books, etc).

5. Phan Lan Hotel. Clean rooms, hot and cold water, aircon and electric fan, ref, cable TV, free use of their desktop computer with wifi, friendly staff, great service, affordable rates. If you're not the "choosy" type, the hotel is Highly Recommended.

I got to use their wifi (using my mobile phone) and would sometimes get wifi signal from the neighboring hotel *cool*

Entrance going to Phan Lan Hotel.

Highly recommended.

6. Lido Health Spa. Darrell's favorite part of the trip *grin*

7. FOOOOD! For the first 3 days, since we had a tour bus to catch at 8:00am, our breakfast was mainly western like omelette, pancakes, plus Vietnam's famous iced coffee (brewed black coffee with condensed milk), etc., because we thought they're the fastest to be prepared. There's actually a number of restaurants beside Sinh Cafe (the tour company)--like Gon Cafe, Cappuccino (where we ate breakfast while waiting for the bus to to take us to our next destination). Darrell had pho bo for breakfast during our first day (he couldn't wait). Btw, Vietnamese people do eat pho bo for breakfast (lunch and dinner even). We also had our share of pho bo (beef noodle soup served with almost bottomless mint, cilantro, basil, lime, bean sprouts, and sliced chili peppers for that added uummpph) at Pho 2000 (where Bill Clinton ate pho some years back), Pho 24, Than Noi, and at the street food beside Ben Thanh Market. My favorite would be the beef stew noodles at the pho restaurant at the corner of Pham Ngu Lao and Do Quang Dau Sts. *tummy happy*

That's Pam and me. Obvious na happy kame sa food namen, diba?

8. Sinh Cafe. What better way to see HCMC but to join a tour to see and learn more about Vietnam. Sinh Cafe tour fee includes use of aircon bus (clean), a tour guide (friendly), and free bottled water at every trip.

9. The Sights. Our first day, we joined the Mekong Delta Trip (My Tho and Ben Tre). According to Wikipedia.org, "the Mekong River is one of the world's major rivers. It is the world's 10th longest river and the 7th longest in Asia. From the Tibetan Plateau, it runs through China, Burma, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam."

It took us 2 hours to travel from HCMC to the province of My Tho. From the port, we rode a motorized boat to the small islands (Ben Tre) on the Mekong River. Included in our itinerary were a visit to orchards, a bee-keeping farm, a place where they manufacture coconut candies, and also where they make rice paper (we were able to taste samples). Free lunch and merienda of fresh tropical fruits while listening to traditional music were included in the tour. We also got to ride on a horse drawn carriage -- Vietnamese style (with matching cone-shaped straw hat). It was a different experience.

Cost: VND180,000 (roughly around P480) (includes boat trips and Vietnamese lunch and merienda)

Cao Dai Temple and Cu Chi Tunnels

For our second day, we booked ourselves for the Cao Dai Temple and Cu Chi Tunnels Tour. Another 2 hours of bus ride brought us to the Tay Ninh. It is said that the temple was "built on 9 levels that represent nine steps to heaven at which you will see a prayer session at noon. Caodaism is a Vietnamese religion with its philosophy based on Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism and Christianity. Its tenets include believing in one God, the existence of the soul and the ability to communicate with the spiritual world." Btw, we also stopped by a Handicapped Handicrafts store.

After 15-20 minutes at the Cao Dai Temple, we proceeded to Cu Chi to see the Ben Dinh Tunnels, famous for its network of tunnels where the Vietnamese used as their kitchen, accommodation, meeting place, weapon factory, hospital during the Vietnamese-American War. We were first shown a documentary film about the war, its heroes, and the history of the tunnels. Impressive and also made me want to read about Vietnam's history. Interesting!

Cost: VND 140,000 + VND 75,000 (for the entrance fee to the tunnels) (P570++)

Ho Chi Minh City Tour

Included in the tour were:

Giam Lam Pagoda (and around China Town): Built in 1744, believed to be the oldest in the city. Very serene, a good place to relax and meditate.

Binh Tay Market: We were not able to shop, since we only stayed there for 15-20 minutes. We just agreed that if we want to buy something from Binh Tay, we'll just come back the next day.

Thien Hau Temple: Said to be the most active in Cholon in HCMC.

Another Handicapped Handicraft store in HCMC:

Reunification Hall: Built in 1966. Old, grand, beautiful, but old. We thought it was extra hot that day, but I guess it was just that the whole building was not well ventilated and we had a lot of stair climbing to do to move from one area to another inside the building. Should have brought an extra shirt. (Entrance Fee: VND 15,000)

Notre Dame Cathedral: Said to be built between 1877 and 1883. It's quite old, but seem to be well maintained. We weren't able to get in because there was an ongoing mass but we heard mass there the next day (Sunday). English mass is held once a week, 9:30am on Sundays.

General Post Office: French-era post office just accross the Notre Dame Cathedral. Impressive interiors!

War Remnants Museum: The museum displays war relics and photos that will surely break your heart. I must admit that I couldn't look at the pictures of victims of the war. Depressing place for me.
Tour Cost: VND 140,000

10. SHOPPING!!!!

At Ben Thanh Market (your one stop shopping place in HCMC) -- for souvenirs, North Face and Kipling (some said that all NP and K items in Ben Thanh are originals (overruns, rejects), its just that you have to look for the better made ones, particularly how the logo was sewn); Coop Mart - you should buy pho bos in packets (great for pasalubong); on De Tham and Pham Ngu Lao Streets - souvenirs, silk sleeping bags and (higher quality) shirts than in Ben Thanh. Ahh, Pam and Aivy bought some nice bags and trousers. Good buys!

It was a good, enlightening trip (and cheap too). Would love to go back!

Special Thanks to Kuya Paul, Ate Jennifer and Chiqui =)

More pics here.

How to Have Fun in Tagaytay (...or something like that)

2009-07-11T13:18:00.020+08:00

1. Get a kick out of seeing a blonde kid ride a tricycle.

Not sure if that's Charlie or Max...

2. Ride the Tagaytay Ridge Cable Car ala "The Mist."

3. Take a picture of Ron riding the Tagaytay Ridge Zipline.

Yes, that's Ron. It's the only picture we got of him =). Sorry, Ron!

4. How do you act out "Quantum of Solace" in Charades?

5. Daydream while waiting to get on the cable car.

6. Are these sentences made by smart (and sober) people ?

A bad boy is great.

PARD Business process simplify everything.

Uma is pretty little baby.

The fox and the dog.

7. At Paradizoo, its a choice of riding a carabao pulled cart or walking on slippery, wet ground, knowing this would equal to our feet getting soaked in mud???

Boring, right?

Random Pics Part1

2009-04-19T21:53:00.012+08:00

Geena (hugging the green tubes): Sleeping?

Chickie!!!

One time, we were already going home after walking Chickie in BHS, a family was also walking beside us. One of the kids asked,"She's so cute. What's her name?" My sister answered, "Chickie!" The whole family started giggling. The dad then said, "Don't tell your tita about it, ha?" The girl then turned to Rose, "She has the same name as my tita." More giggling followed.

Good name for a pet shop?

My kuya's brother in law actually refuses to park on this side of _____ (where this shop is located), because the kids might see the name of the shop. hahahahahaha!

Hamming it up for the camera!

At the Ateneo fair. This, I can handle, but not the big ones.

"Let go, you big bully! That's ours!"

A picture of SM Marikina parking lot. Notice how well lighted it is?

This is from the Once in a Lifetime: John Scofield and Joe Lovano Jazz concert at the Rockwell tent (16 October 2008).

Posing with the Easter Bunny at A. Venue. Happy Easter!

MORE TO COME!

Birthdays, et al.

2009-03-31T21:10:00.004+08:00

Been meaning to blog about my birthday but couldn't find the proper "inspiration." Birthdays are supposed to be happy occassions. Don't get me wrong, it was a happy one spent with my family and friends. When I got home for the traditional birthday dinner, we had 3 birthday cakes (from TZ, TL and from my aunts), palabok (there should be something long served for long life), fried chicken (my nephews' and niece's request), ice cream, grilled fish (my request). Earlier that day, I received texts, phone calls and FB greetings from friends. Plus being greeted by my office mates with a song and dance which is always special. I thank God for this special day. I pray for more birthdays for me.

But what made me extra emotional that day was the sad news about Nikki's classmate at the Ateneo. When I got home for the birthday dinner, he told us about what happened at the school parking lot that day. A classmate of his had an accident and was rushed to the hospital and that there was even blood at the spot where it happened. He had no other info. We just hoped that the kid was okay. He or rather we had no idea of how serious it was.

It was only after dinner that my sister-in-law received a text from a co-parent requesting for prayers for the repose of the soul of Amiel Alcantara. I guess you have read everything about it in the papers. No need to write it here. When Nikki was told about what happened, he cried. All I could do was hug him tightly. It could have been anybody.

I went to the wake with my sister-in-law, Nikki and Regeena on the last night to offer our condolences (my sister-in-law already went to the wake for the Holy Mass sponsored by Nikki's class). The chapel was full. Around 8pm or 9pm another Mass was held. During the Holy Mass at the Chapel of the Holy Guardian Angel, the priest took note of the chapel's name and reminded us of the Prayer to our Guardian Angel. It's a prayer I have known since my grade school days at SPCP. I have not said this prayer for a long time, but it was so appropriate. To remind all of us:

Angel of God,
my guardian dear,
To whom God's love
commits me here,
Ever this day,
be at my side,
To light and guard,
Rule and guide.
Amen.

Borrowing from a blog I read, what happened to Amiel was an eye opener for all of us...of how short life can be.

For Amiel:
Give him eternal rest, O Lord, and may Your light shine upon him forever. Receive his soul and present him to God the Most High. May his soul rest in peace.
In Jesus' name. Amen.

Ready-Set-RORO (Win P1 million)

2009-03-31T20:42:00.005+08:00

Click on the picture to enlarge.

Log on to http://www.dbprororace2009.multiply.com/ for more details.

I Heart John Legend!

2009-03-30T21:53:00.008+08:00

I remember mentioning in my earlier blog that if John comes to Manila, I am going to watch his concert. And I did. Last Thursday. I oh so heart him!!!!

With my two sisters in tow (actually, with Rose and Patty, one of my high school best friends), we watched John Legend at the Araneta. Concert ticket said the show starwill start at 8:00pm. As usual, it started after 8:30pm but it doesn't matter. When the lights were turned down, signalling that the show was about to start, the band started to play. Everyone got so excited waiting for John to appear on stage but all of a sudden, loud shrieks came from the VIP section below us. John Legend came from the back walking through the crowd to the stage. He was so cool, tapping hands that came his way.

He sang songs mostly from his new CD, Evolver, like "Everybody Knows," "No Other Love," "This Time," "Green Light" and my personal favorite "Take Me Away." But he didn't disappoint, he sang his hits from his previous CDs inlcuding "Save Room," "PDA," "Let's Get Lifted," Number One," "Save Room" and his encore song "Ordinary People."

When he sang "Slow Dance," he got a lady from the audience to come up on stage and did some dirty dancing with her. Whoa!!! Hahahahahaha!

We went home happy and satisfied. It was FUN!!! I heart John Legend!!!!

Got more pictures here.

VOTE EARTH!!!

2009-03-28T17:42:00.002+08:00

For just an hour, from 8:30pm to 9:30pm tonight, let's switch off our lights.

VOTE EARTH!!!

My Top Ten MTVs

2009-03-19T21:49:00.006+08:00

Just wanted to share my favorite MTVs. Making MTVs I guess is the same as making a movie. It takes a good story, a good cast, wild imagination, something that will make your target audience get interested to what you're creating and eventually would mean big bucks. Just like in making MTVs, it should be unique, it should get your viewers interested in actually buying the CD. These MTVs I've chosen are some of the MTVs that made an impact visually. Fortunately, they came with great songs too. Hope you like them too.

1. REM - Imitation of Life (2001) - Unfortunately, the MTV is not anymore available on Youtube becuase of copyright problems. Here an exerpt from good ole Wikipedia of how the MTV was made to give you an idea. The single's video, depicting a scene of an elaborate pool party, was shot in Los Angeles by Garth Jennings. Michael Stipe, in an interview with MTV UK in 2001, explained how the video was made. "The entire video took twenty seconds to shoot. What you're watching is a loop that goes forwards for twenty seconds, backwards for twenty seconds, forwards for twenty seconds, backwards for twenty seconds, with one camera, static, and then using a technique called pan and scan, which is a technical thing that is used when they go from a widescreen format and reformat to fit your television or DVD, moving in on certain parts of the entire picture. And you'll see that we do that picking up various people within the frame." A post of the MTV in Youtube has already made the 2 million hits mark (2,175,815 to be exact). I assure you, the MTV is interesting.

2. Kylie Minogue - Come Into My World (2002) - This is another video that will keep you asking yourself "how was this made?" Maybe if given the chance, I'd try to learn MTV making. hahaha. Want to know how it was made? Click here (wikipedia, of course).

3. OK Go - Here it Goes Again (2006) - I've already featured this MTV in my blog a few months ago.

4. U2 - Numb (1993) - Hahaha. I really like this one. Would you do it? The Edge did it! Uncool but its U2. Hail! Bono!

5. Chemical Brothers - Star Guitar (2002) - Made by the same director who gave us Kylie Minogue's Come Into My World, Michel Gondry. MTV looks plain but you'll notice that the objects in the video appears in tune with the beats of the song. See for yourself.

6. Coldplay - The Scientist (2002) - Took Chris Martin a month to learn the song backwards. According to, who else, Wikipedia.com.

7. Jamiroquai - Virtual Insanity (1996) - Apologies for the grainy video. This is the best one I could find in Youtube. I remember watching them on TV performing the song live on one of the award shows. They had moving floors, like flat escalators. Watch the video and guess which one is moving, the walls or the floor?

8. George Michael & Mary J. Blige - As (1999) - "Did you know that true love asks for nothing?" My favorite song actually. The MTV is good, its full of GM and MJB. hehe

9. Madonna - Ray of Light (1998) - This MTV used time-lapse images (movements in fast forward 4x). It also features Madonna's dancing, although not her best singing voice.

Madonna - New Music - More Music Videos

10. A-ha - Take On Me (1985) - A Classic!

Special mention to Pink's Get the Party Started (I love PINK!!!!), Avril Lavigne's Girlfriend, Lily Allen's LDN, Eminem's Stan (just because my friend Hazel can rap along Eminem!!!!), Groove Armada's Superstylin. I hope there'll be more interesting songs and MTVs soon. I'll post again soon!

My Kuala Lumpur Top Ten

2009-02-28T21:10:00.030+08:00

1. Getting lost twice - On our first night in KL, we found ourselves in the middle of Bukit Bintang, less than a kilometer from our hotel. Yes, we had a map, but somehow, we couldn't figure out where we were in the map. Hahaha! Second was getting lost looking for the Sri Maha Mariamman temple along Jalan Tun HS Lee Street after going around Chinatown. We asked street vendors, conductors/drivers but no one could point us the "right" way. Yes, we had a map (we always had a map with us), but but but...

2. Ikea and Ikea's Swedish meatballs/Ikano - One of the most talked about home products retailer is Ikea, founded in Sweden, owned by a Dutch-registered foundation. It was, I guess, one of the highlights of our trip (same as visiting the Ikea store in Singapore). After shopping at Ikea and eating Swedish meatballs (and some dessert), we proceeded to the adjacent Ikano Power Center and The Curve for more shopping.

Kwento: One of the most important task for me while in SIN/MAL was the purchase of a Dave Laptop Table from Ikea for my sister Rose. Rose had already made her research and it turns out, its cheaper to buy the table in Malaysia (RMS 89 or Php1,157) than in Singapore (S$58 or Php1,798). Meanwhile, Hazel made a few phone calls and found out that the table was out of stock in Malaysia. So there was no choice but to buy it in Singapore. When we got to Ikea Singapore, it was also out of stock =( Btw, a reseller in Manila sells it for Php3,000 (on order basis).

3. Petronas Twin Towers - You should never go to Kuala Lumpur without visiting the country's "national landmark and symbol of Malaysia's progress and achievements as an emerging world-class economy." According to travel books and from friends, a limited number of tickets are available daily (just 1,400) so we lined up as early as 8:00am and got tickets for 12:45pm to go up the Skybridge. When we returned for our Skybridge visit, there were no more tickets available. Before going up, a short 3D film was shown as introduction to the Petronas Towers. Beautiful and impressive!!

4. Suria KLCC - While waiting for 12:45pm for our Skybridge visit, we went to Suria KLCC for breakfast (at their food court). I never imagined that there were different ways of serving Nasi Lemak (rice in cream). It can be served with chicken, beef, etc.

5. Aquaria - After breakfast we went to Aquaria, "the only state-of the art 60,000 sq. ft. aquarium, right in the heart of beautiful Kuala Lumpur City." First part of the tour was what they call a touch pool encounter where you get to touch some fish, starfish and a hard shelled fish (can't remember the names). The also have this Amazon river aquarium featuring a 10 foot long gigantic Arapaima. They also have an underwater tunnel where you can have your picture taken with the swimming sharks, sting rays. We also watched feeding of Piranhas! (Btw, a funny thing happened while we were in the Aquaria Souvenir Shop. Becky and I were looking for the toilet and we asked the Aquaria security guard for directions, and he said "diretso tapos kaliwa" but he didn't look Pinoy at all. All we could say was "Salamat." haha.)

5. Crowne Plaza Mutiara -For our stay in KL, we stayed at the Crowne Plaza Mutiara along Jalan Sultan Ismail. I will never forget the see through toilet. Thanks again to Hazel =)

7. Aeroline Malaysia - is one of the bus companies that offer trips between Singapore and Malaysia. We initially booked a trip for CRK-KL-Langkawi-KL-CRK but around January, we decided to go instead to Singapore and forego Langkawi. Becky (or was it Hazel?) checked out Aeroline so we went ahead and booked our trip for KL-SIN-KL. Aeroline's impressive amenities included: washroom, pantry, video entertainment, reclining seats, reading lights and power sockets for gadgets. It's like traveling business class, only we were in a bus. It was so comfy. On our way to SIN, there were only 6 passengers (excluding the driver and crew). Going back to KL, we were only 9 or 10. Trip took 5 hours.

8. Food - Chinese, Malay, Indian, we tried them all. My favorite was the Tofu with minced pork at this Chinese retaurant somewhere in Chinatown. Delicious!

9. Shopping - It was a great shopping experience in KL. We enjoyed shopping for souvenirs, magnets, keychains and other stuff of interest at Little India, Jalan Petaling (Chinatown), Central Market, Plaza Low Yat (4 floors of electronic gadgets), Berjaya Times Square (said to be the biggest mall in Malaysia), Daiso (all items at RM5 or Php65) at Suria KLCC and Cold Storage (actually, there was more excitement at the sight of Cold Storage compared to anywhere else).

10. Air Asia - Thanks to Air Asia, we were able to avail of their Zero Fare (in May 2008). Catch: Upon touchdown in KL, we had to walk from the plane to the immigration area which was a good 5+ minute walk. Good thing it wasn't raining, but it was HOT!

I enjoyed my first quarter vacation. Hopefully, there'll be more this year!

More pics here.

Singapore Top Ten

2009-02-28T09:13:00.030+08:00

1. Singapore's Transport System - MRT, Bus and Taxi System - impressive, efficient, clean!! You have to experience it to know what I mean.

2. Shopping for souvenirs in Chinatown (3 for S$10 store), Du Yi Bookshop, Night Safari, etc.

3. Mustafa Center, Little India - Open 24 hours a day, is a one stop shop for anything you need. It is so big that we almost got lost inside (blame it on the floor plan of the store hehe). Don't bother depositing your stuff at the counter outside, they'll just seal it for you (and you'll need a pair of scissors to open it).

4. FOOD!!!!! - I think we were able to try every kind of food Singapore had to offer, from Yin Yang Chicken (Hainanese Chicken), Chilli Crab, Satay, Tom Yung Soup, Roti Prata and even had Nasi Lemak for breakfast. It was primarily a food trip -- shopping and visiting the sites were just coincidental.

5. Singapore Visitors Centre on Orchard Road and Singapore Tourist Pass - It's highly recommended that tourists pass by the Visitors Centre. Staff are very helpful (except for 1 - hmphhh) and they'll readily assist in any way. And all kinds of maps and info brochures are available. While there, we bought 2-day passes to go around the sights and shopping areas in Singapore (for S$16) (does not include fare to the Night Safari), which we used for the trains, buses and get this, you get back your S$10 as refund. That's Becky and Hazel on the foreground entering the Visitors Centre.

6. Night Safari - We traveled all the way to Singapore's famous Night Safari (probably an hour away from our hotel). Despite the large crowd that Thursday evening, we were able to get good front row seats to watch the "Creatures of the Night Show." After the show, we went on the Tram Ride to see the other "creatures of the night." It was actually pleasant to meet some fellow Pinoys working at the Night Safari. They even showed us where the best seats are for the Tram Ride (third car, front row). Before I forget, check out their toilets while you're there (with matching waterfall sounds and a lot of growling).

7. Holiday Inn Atrium - For our 3 nights 2 days stay in Singapore, we were billeted at the beautiful Holiday Inn Atrium. Thanks, Hazel. Tip: Avail of the free Riverside Hotels' shuttle service.

That's me and Hazel looking at some maps -- finalizing our itinerary for the next 2 days.

8. Esplanade - Theatres by The Bay - The structure, its dome are actually upturned Durians, is most beautiful at night. When we first came to Esplanade (earlier in the day), we were somehow pulled to The Cookie Museum which sells, you guessed it, cookies. But not just plain cookies but delicious tasting cookies (you can actually sample some of them) but sadly, were quite expensive. So, we just had a snack of chocolate dipped strawberries and bananas (with nuts) at Chocz while listening to a group practicing their pieces for a concert (which was a welcome treat to our very tired feet). We came back that night and had dinner at the nearby Makasuntra Gluttons Bay-Singapore's best streetfood, where we had dinner of Satay and Roti with Cheese -- which Hazel found weird.

9. The Famous Merlion - Just across Esplande is Merlion Park. Need I say more?

(My note: Hazel was too shy to pose for pictures)

10. Litter-free streets of Singapore - This is another reason to be impressed about Singapore. Friends told me that this small island state is soooo clean, I didn't realize that it was true until I saw it for myself. How I wish it would be the same in Manila *sigh* I wonder where they put all their trash? hmmm...

There are actually other sights or things that I've not included (our trip to Ikea or the other malls we went to) but actually, all I wanted to say is that --- Thank you, Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, without you, there'd be no Singapore.

More Singapore pics here.

I am a girl...

2009-01-23T23:10:00.002+08:00

I am a girl...

of course I want a fairy tale ending,

but I don't need a knight on a white horse.

I need a vampire on a shiny silver Volvo!

--Bella Swan

(Sorry, I found it funny. I had to share it.)

How Do You Measure A Year?

2009-01-06T10:16:00.005+08:00

SEASONS OF LOVE

525,600 minutes, 525,000 moments so dear
525,600 minutes - how do you measure, measure a year?
In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights, in cups of coffee
In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife.

In 525,600 minutes - how do you measure a year in the life?
How about love? How about love? How about love?
Measure in love. Seasons of love. Seasons of love

525,600 minutes! 525,000 journeys to plan
525,600 minutes - how do you measure the life of a man?

In truths that he learned, or in times that he cried
In bridges he burned, or the way that he died.

It’s time now to sing out, though the story never ends
Let's celebrate, remember a year in the life of friends!
How about love? Think about love! Remember the love!
Measure in love. Seasons of love! Seasons of love.

Hope we'll all have a better 2009.

Thanks to my friend Enn for reintroducing me to this song.

Some Kind of Homecoming...

2008-12-17T15:38:00.004+08:00

Remember my "My To Do" entry in January? Am proud to say that most of it I have done this year (yeyyy for me) but sadly, some fell between the cracks.

Anyway, after a whole year of procrastinating, I went to DFA for the "personal appearance" part of the renewal of my passport (yeah, I just stayed in Manila this year, poor me). You know, it was a good thing that I renewed my passport online via the Pilipinas Teleserve Inc. When I got there, it only took me less than 5 minutes. No kidding!!! I was just asked to check if all the information printed on a paper were correct and was asked to thumbmark it, said it will be delivered on the date I requested. Wow! I was impressed.

Since it was still early for my 11:30am appointment, I decided to go to DLSU and renew my DLSAA alumni card. It was only a few kilometers away.

It was kind of weird being there. It brought back happy memories...with my blockmates, going to Harrison Plaza during long breaks, eating at Aristo and having my favorite Chicken Yakitori *wide grin*

Going to the 2nd floor to the DLSAA Office, I had to visit the Chapel of The Most Blessed Sacrament. "Someone coming home immediately heads towards the place that is most familiar, the place where one finds comfort, warmth, serenity. For the Lasallian student or alumnus, the Chapel serves as this sanctum, a place where one feels truly home." It was a homecoming of sorts. It was a good one.

Well, enough of the reminiscing. Mission accomplished. My card renewed. Bought some stuff at the alumni office and some DLSU stickers at the bookstore *yipeee*

It will be a long while again before I come back. Maybe next year?

"Do I Dazzle You?"

2008-12-06T11:49:00.004+08:00

Few reasons why a lot of girls love Edward Anthony Masen Cullen.

A normal guy would say:
"I love you, baby!"

Edward would say:
"You are my life now."

As you leave the house, a normal guy would say:
"Bye. See ya!"

Edward would say:
"Hurry back to me."

While you've gone far away, a normal guy would say:
"I miss you."

Edward would say:
"It's like you've taken half myself with you."

If you died, a normal guy would find another.
Edward would kill himself because life without you isn't worth living.

Hot! Hot! Hot!

2008-11-17T19:28:00.002+08:00

Video courtesy of mj88svi.

Rihanna and Chris Brown in Manila

2008-10-14T17:16:00.003+08:00

Rihanna and Chris Brown? back-to-back???
Whaaaaaaaaaaat??????

MTV Philippines is bringing 2 of the hottest and biggest R&B acts to hit the music industry. Mark your calendars, Sunday, 16 November 2008, at the Bonifacio Global City Open Field. Get your tickets now to avail of the early bird promo.

Contact ticketworld: www.ticketworld.com.ph at 891-9999

Cute nito!

2008-10-09T19:03:00.003+08:00

Check out their website.

Sorry, not available for "pilings."

Taste of Europe

2008-09-13T13:10:00.005+08:00

Cine Europa is back in Manila for the 11th year. All 17 movies are highly recommended. I've already watched two last Friday ("100 Steps" from Italy and "Colorado Avenue" from Finland) and Cine Europa goers clapped after their endings. I think that says a lot about the quality of the films.

We're planning to watch the other movies this week *wink*

I strongly suggest you catch at least one and you'll know what I mean.

It runs until 21 September at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Mandaluyong City. Admission to the screenings is free on a first-come, first-served basis. Please visit the Embassy of France website for synopsis and schedule.

Poster from the Embassy of France website.

Something Something

2008-09-12T13:52:00.003+08:00

Since last week, I've not been feeling well, probably because of stress in the office and probably from many other things. The effect was quite tolerable until I experienced what I thought was a simple upset stomach Monday morning which turned out to be a gastrointestinal something something (I forgot the term used by the clinic doctor). Initially, she asked me if I experience frequent burping *burp* (oops excuse me), chest pains (!!!), bloated feeling, in other words, “general discomfort.”

Somewhere in the Q & A, she mentioned heartburn, which frightened me. I thought it had something to do with the heart, which is not true. It turns out that it is a digestive problem. At least it’s not a heart problem, thank God for that. So it’s a digestive problem. She showed this leaflet and explained what could have caused this: stress, bad eating and sleeping habits, coffee, alcohol, smoking (and other bad things hehe).

In conclusion of my consultation, I was prescribed 2 medicines, an antacid and another medicine and of course, informed me of SOME things to avoid:

Avoid high-fat meals. Fats can slow down/delay gastric emptying.
Eat small, more frequent meals rather than large meals.
Don’t eat within two to three hours of going to bed.
Avoid tight-fitting clothing, especially after a meal.
Lose weight if over weight.
Don’t exercise immediately after eating.
Avoid eating late night snacks altogether, since lying down soon after eating will almost always worsen the problem.
Smoking and drinking alcohol can worsen heartburn.
Some prescription medications can cause heartburn.
To reduce night time episodes of heartburn, elevate the head of your bed four to six inches.
Some over-the counter medications can cause heartburn.
Avoid: chocolates, fatty meals, coffee, alcohol, onions, peppermint and spearmint, tomato-based products, and beans.

Okay, okay. I am guilty of some of those listed above *sigh* and I have to do something and sacrifice some things.

I guess, its better than experiencing that terrible discomfort again.

Hey, btw, this gastrointestinal something something can recur *double sigh*

US Open - Day 15

2008-09-10T17:02:00.004+08:00

The usual 14 days of grand slam games extended to 15 days due to rains last Saturday, delaying the games for a day.

All I can say is, he is back! Roger Federer, now 5 time US Open champion, won in straight sets, 6-2, 7-5, 6-2 defeating world no. 6, 21-year old Scot Andy Murray. He was in his old form: his deadly inside out forehand, his quickness and aggressiveness (I love his serve and volley style). He showed so much confidence as the game progressed. I saw the second and third set live on "Balls" Tuesday morning before leaving for work (and watched the whole game on replay the other night) and boy, was I so happy for him. It broke my heart when he lost to Nadal in the Wimbledon finals *sigh* he could have gotten another slam under his belt that time. On the other hand, I felt sad for Andy. After defeating world no. 1 Rafael Nadal in the semifinals, I actually thought Andy can win against Roger (remember Andy is 2-1 head-to-head with Roger in hardcourt). Great match! For Roger: GO FOR 14!!!

In the women's side. Serena Williams won in straight sets, 6-4, 7-5 against Serbian Jelena Jankovic. Serena was all power (same could be said about her sister Venus). You could hear her grunts all over hehe. As for Jelena, she will be a force to reckon with in the coming tournaments. A couple of more grand slam experience and she'll be ready. Serena is back to world number 1 after 5 years (last time she was no. 1 was in 2003). Jelena, by the way, is now world no. 2 and Ana Ivanovic is down to no. 3.

Now that the last grand slam of the year is over, next important tournament would be the year ending Sony Ericsson Championship in Doha in November for the women's and the Tennis Masters Cup in Shanghai for the men's side also in November. And yes, a lot of players will be looking forward to who will be the year-ending number 1 for both sides. That's also a big deal.

Next grand slam will be the Australian Open (Melbourne Park, starting 19 Jan to 1 Feb 2009). Can't wait!

Images from: http://www.serenawilliams.com/ and http://www.rogerfederer.com/en/index.cfm

My Fearless Forecast - US Open 2008

2008-09-06T21:33:00.008+08:00

From 128 entered in women's singles, it's now down to 2: Serena Williams, 2-time US Open Champion, and Jelena Jankovic of Serbia (head-to-head: 3-3 on hardcourt).

Hmmm...if we're talking about experience, I'd go for Serena. But if you ask me, I want Jankovic to win. New blood. Fresh new face. Good for the game. But honestly, I was rooting for the current #1 Ana Ivanovic, but she got booted out in the second round *sigh* Anyway, whoever wins the women's finals will become the new #1 next week.

Jelena Jankovic

Serena Williams

Ana Ivanovic

Now in the men's side. In a few minutes, the men's semifinals will be played at the Arthur Ashe Stadium, Flushing Meadows, New York (11 am Saturday NY/11pm Saturday MNL). First to play will be Novak Djokovic vs. Roger Federer, and right after will be Rafael Nadal vs. Andy Murray. Fearless forecast:

Semifinals: Federer in 5 / Nadal in 3

Finals: I don't want to say it but Nadal in 3...but, but, but I want Federer to win *grin*

All pictures from

http://www.serenawilliams.com/

http://www.jj-jelenajankovic.com/

http://www.anaivanovic.com/

http://www.usopen.org/

How...

2008-09-05T15:21:00.007+08:00

and

Something New

2008-08-21T17:40:00.006+08:00

The other day, I was looking for a key chain that will go with my new keys, something that will represent me, as in me.

So I looked for one in my collection.

Thought of using this one, but I thought its so KrisA.

How about this one, a 'pasalubong.' But I remembered, it should be personal. E hindi pa nga ako nakakapunta ng Guam e.

Or this, an Asian Games key chain...hmmm...pero hindi latest. hehehe

Then, I remembered seeing something a few days back that caught my attention, which I thought could work. It was a cellphone charm. I said to myself, I'll just remove the black thingie so I can use the other part as a key chain.

So this is how it looks like. Its so me.

Got the "R" and the tennis racket (bought separately as cellphone charms) from Comic Alley in Megamall. Actually, the "R" stands for Ryoma Echizen, the main character in the popular Japanese manga, Prince of Tennis. Btw, manga is the Japanese word for comics or print cartoon and anime is animated cartoon. And the tennis racket represents my love for tennis. Une passion la tennis, sabi ko nga sa aking French beginners class :)

So, that's the story of my search for my key chain.

After the Storm

2008-08-13T18:48:00.004+08:00

(sharing lang...)

It's very hard to lose a love one, lalo na kung magulang. I should know.

Biro mo, lagi natin silang kasama since nung maliit pa tayo hanggang sa paglaki natin. Andyan lang sila sa tabi natin. Parang pader ba.

I really felt a void after I lost my Dad. It was only after that I realized how much I loved him, how important he was. Nung mawala siya, dun ko na na-realize na kung kahit brown out, na sobrang dilim (uso brown out noon), basta alam kong andyan siya with us, walang rason para matakot. Maliit na bagay pero ang lakas ng dating sa akin.

When I went back to work after a week, I felt some kind of attachment to everyone who was close to me. Ang weird talaga. Call it senti or arte pero totoo ito. I realized and was suddenly afraid I could lose them anytime.

I miss my Dad. I miss my Mama. But I know they are happy. I am comforted with the thought na hindi na mahihirapan si Mama. God is always good and He knows what is best.

A former boss told me, "You're lucky if you still have a parent. You are extremely lucky if you still have both your parents."

Kaya kayo, love your parents.

As for me, don't worry, I'm okay.

My Prayer

2008-08-07T19:46:00.001+08:00

Dear Lord,
Thank you for sharing Mama with us. We know she is very happy, pain-free, worry-free. Magkasama na sila ni Daddy. We know how much she missed Dad when he passed away. They are both with You now.

My kuya, my sister and I are truly grateful for the very precious time You have let them spent with us. We know how much they worked hard for us---for us to have a comfortable life...for us to have a good future.

Give her eternal rest, O Lord, and may Your light shine upon her forever. Receive her soul and present her to God the Most High. May her soul rest in peace.

In Jesus' name. Amen.

I love you, Mama! I love you, Dad!

It was my Mama's 40th day last Friday.
On behalf of my family, thank you for your sympathy, support, and concern when they were needed so much.

Tony and Indy

2008-05-25T16:59:00.008+08:00

Iron Man is one of the best movies I've seen this year.

Prior to watching the movie, I had no idea who Iron Man (the comic book hero) was. All I knew was Robert Downey, Jr. was in it. I thought it was going to be another Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (sorry, I didn't like that one). I was hoping it's going to be different and I was not dissappointed.
Robert Downey, Jr. has matured a lot (age and experience) and the role of Tony Stark suited him well. He still has that "pa-cute" side of him (but done in a millionnaire/all business kind of way).
Before his brush with the law in the late 1990s, I considered him as one of the most talented actors in Hollywood. (I fell in love with Robert in his previous movies, "Chances Are" and "Only You").
I hope he continues this upswing in his career. He deserves it.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

Despite the old age, Harrison Ford is still Indiana Jones, Jr.

If you're going to compare the latest franchise with the last one (that being Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade in 1989), you will be dissappointed. But if you're mababaw like me, you will definitely enjoy it. It's been 19 years, yup 19 years, since we've last seen Indy and we missed his great adventures. He's still afraid of snakes (like me) and has the best smart-ass one liners. My advice is: just enjoy the ride!

Movie posters from wikipedia.com

Beach-ing Again

2008-05-20T10:56:00.006+08:00

Who said there was a tropical depression? (Actually, tropical depression COSME was just around the corner).
Last weekend, we had our summer outing at Sandbar Boquete Beach Resort in Puerto Galera. We left Manila at 6:30am and reached the resort before noon (the boat ride to the resort took longer than expected because of the strong waves).
To sum it all up and just like what my friend Tess said, "We have conquered the big waves....our fears....and we have been blessed! We had a great time!"

See our pics here.

Prayer Before Work

2008-05-13T10:20:00.005+08:00

Prayer Before Work

Lord, as I start the day, let me remember how blessed and

lucky I am to be in my job.

Remind me to be grateful for the work I do,

the people I meet and the wage I receive.

Keep me cooperative with my colleagues and

friendly to the people I serve.

If I have to complain, make me think of the common good and

later of my own welfare.

Help me to be honest in my dealings and

responsible in the task assigned to me.

Make me aware that in my work, I bring your work to completion.

Amen.

HBs LLB Weekend

2008-05-06T14:29:00.004+08:00

Ahhhh! This is the life!

Click for more pics here and here.

Happy Anniversary!

2008-04-25T14:44:00.003+08:00

---Yan ang sabi ng blog ko.

It's been one year since my first blog entry. Haaay. Never thought that it would last this long...
Anyway, thanks for visiting my blog and leaving comments. Flattering ang dating e. Pag ganun kasi alam ko may nagbabasa ng blog ko. hehehe.
I admit, I am not a good writer. Erase, erase. I admit, I am not a writer. Dito sa blog ko, I just write things kung pano ko siya sasabihin.
Ang wish ko, sana, magkalat si Lord ng "good writing skills" at ma-ambunan ako *yipeeeee*

Superhero Movie

2008-04-22T13:15:00.002+08:00

Ok lang...

Movie poster from empiremovies.com

Shameless!

2008-04-01T17:40:00.004+08:00

Shameless plugging that is.

I have been using Bath and Body Desserts Eau de Vanille Moisturizing Cologne Mist since January. All I can say is...sobrang bango, sobrang sarap niya. Kung pwede lang siyang kainin, kakainin ko. Pramis! Everytime I use it, lahat ng katabi ko nagtatanong kung sino yon. hehehehe!

You should also try their Eau de Pomme. Nakakagutom rin.

Clarification, cologne ang mga ito, hindi desserts. hahahaha!

Marami pang items, just check out their site.

http://bathandbodydesserts.multiply.com/

Okay din siya as gifts ;)

Going to order again soon =)

New Toy!

2008-03-28T15:05:00.009+08:00

Pathetic na yung Casio digicam ko.

Kaya...

...Red na Sony Cyber Shot T100 na New Toy ko!

T100 pics from www.sony.com.ph

20 Questions

2008-03-20T18:02:00.004+08:00

1. At what age do/did you wish to marry? 25 (sinong may comment dyan? ha?)

2. What color do you like most? Orange

3. If you can have a superpower, what would it be? Supergirl

4. If you can travel anywhere in the world, where would you want to go? Europe!

5. Which part of you that you have the most? All over! demmet!

6. When you get sad, what do you do? I shop!

7. What are you afraid to lose the most? My family. My friends.

8. If you win $1 million, what would you do with the money? Pay all utangs. Put up a business. Invest on land. Buy several condo units.

9. What do you love the most last year (2007)? Lost weight...but gained them all back in the last quarter =(

10. What is your New Year's resolution? Save more, spend less (fingers crossed)

11. What is the moment you regret most? None.

12. What type of person do you hate the most? Bitches! Assholes!

13. What is your greatest asset? My family and friends.

14. If you had one wish, what would you wish for? Good health to all the people I love.

15. How did you celebrate the New Year? With my family

16. Name the one body part your hubby or boyfriend tells you he adores. Sabi...yung hair ko...oo nga noon yon, di na ngayon! demmet!

17. It's 2008. What are you looking forward to this year? Saving more! Loving more!

18. Anything in your life that you wish weren't so awful? Hmmm...parang ala naman...

19. What's the shallowest thing you intend to do this year? Hmmmm...di ko pa naisip yan

20. What is the one thing you can't give up? People I love.

Am tagging...anyone who's interested to do this.

Cheers!

Prayer For Patience

2008-03-20T14:51:00.004+08:00

O Lord, grant me this day the grace to be patient

in every difficulty that I may face
with regard to my work and my relationships.
Help me not be upset when things do not turn out according to my expectations.
Let me offer my disappointments and discomforts to you

so that I may avoid murmuring and complaining about my troubles.

No matter what comes my way, help me to carry on.
Amen.

Ne-yooooooooo!!!!

2008-03-04T22:30:00.005+08:00

Took this video and uploaded to YouTube. Big file kasi 300MB di pwede sa Multiply. More videos from my YouTube account. Pasensya na, blair witch project/cloverfield ang dating ng video kasi ang hirap sumayaw at magvideo ng sabay =)

More pictures here.

More vids here (smaller files, uploaded in my Multiply).

Happy Birthday To Me! Happy Birthday To Me!

2008-03-02T11:25:00.009+08:00

Sunday, 24 February

I'm 36! Yup, I'm 36!

Heard Mass in the morning to thank our good Lord for all the blessings.

Went to the mall to shop (with my sis-in-law Rowena, my pamangkins: Raymund and Regeena). We were the 4Rs.

Got my free bday cake from Figaro =)

Just had a simple dinner with my family to celebrate my special day (cake, chicken, dumplings and pasta).

Freaky Story:
Rose has this birthday mug that everytime you pick it up, it would play happy birthday. It's quite old and on this particular day, my bday, it kept on playing even if IT'S NOT BEING USED. As in, even if its on the shelf that day, it would just start playing that song. Freaky diba? During breakfast, it was ok...kasi bday ko. hehehe. But before dinner or everytime I would go to the kitchen to check up on things, it would just play happy birthday. Pramis! Ngeeeeee talaga!!!

Heto siya:

Anyway, the other day when I got home, I went to the kitchen to get water. You know what, hindi na siya nagpe-play ng happy birthday...

My Thoughts:
When I turned 30, a very good friend (we're the same age, I'm just older by 3 weeks) asked me how it feels to be 30. I said, "I know I'm getting old (haha!), but I try not to let it get to me." ...whatever that means...Anyway, I still feel the same way. As long as I'm happy and healthy (pati na rin mga taong mahal ko).

Thanks sa mga nakaalala and K, for the beeeyutipul plowers!

I'm 10! I'm 10!

2008-02-28T15:11:00.002+08:00

[Glitterfy.com - *Glitter Words*]

Hehehe! Not my age. It's my 10th anniversary in the bank (25 Feb - a day after my bday). 10 years as regular staff, not counting my 4 years as temp staff. That's 14 years. Whew!

Ano kaya makukuha ko? Kahit ano basta meron =)

Belated Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-16T19:57:00.002+08:00

Whaddyaknow? My Name's Also a Moon

2008-02-04T19:33:00.000+08:00

When I was younger, everytime I ask my mom where she got my name, she would tell me pointblank that its from a comic book (during their time, "komiks" can be rented from your friendly neighborhood sari sari store). So that's my press release when I was growing up.

In high school, my explanation would become more "sosi" that everytime the same question would come up, I would answer, "...a Greek goddess, daughter of Uranus, the sky, and Gaia, the earth, in classical Greek mythology." *wink wink*

The other day, during a slow day, I googled my name. Expecting that the old Timor-Leste consultant ad would pop up (they used by email add as contact), lo and behold, somewhere in the results came back as one of Saturn's moons. WOW!!! This is new. As it turned out, its not actually new. It was discovered in 1672 by an Italian mathematician, astronomer, engineer, and astrologer Giovanni Cassini.

"Rhea is the second largest moon of Saturn, behind Titan, and the largest
without an atmosphere. It is composed mostly of water ice, but has a small rocky
core. Rhea's rotation and orbit are locked together (just like Earth's Moon) so
that one side always faces Saturn. A consequence of this is that one side always
leads the other. Rhea's leading surface is much more heavily cratered than its
trailing surface." From NASA

Here are some pics:

What do you know? Am I beautiful or what?

Pic from NASA

Am I gorgeous or what????

Also from NASA

Interesting, huh? You should google your name sometime *big grin*

Just Wondering...

2008-01-29T18:35:00.001+08:00

Was looking at my picture folder when I saw this pic. It was taken in a grocery store somewhere in Pioneer sometime in December. Couldn't resist taking a picture.

I was just wondering, is it really interactive? Like, how "interactive"? Would it do some things like what I'm imagining right now? *naughty grin*

Then I remembered seeing these in the net:

Bust Pillow

Arm Pillow

Lap Pillow

Hmmm...If I use the "interactive" pillow case on these pillows, imagine what if would be like...

Just a thought...

Bust Pillow pic from asia.net.com
Lap Pillow pic from news.bbc.co.uk
Boyfriend Arm Pillow pic from www.weirdthings.org.uk

My To Do

2008-01-24T17:49:00.002+08:00

*Sigh*

So many things to do (and this is just for January-February 2008):

1. ~~Pay club membership for Fitness Club~~...payment for Badminton Club membership to be paid later on ;)

2. Renew Passport. I received an EmCS e-alert the other day that my passport will be expiring in August. To renew my passport, I have to do the following:

~~get application form from travel agency~~
~~fill up application form~~
go to Megamall and get pic taken (4 copies-1.77" x 1.37").Take note: no foto me accepted; studio taken only; dark blue background; dress shirt should be with collar and sleeves (colored)(male or female); no eyeglasses
~~need original and photocopy of 2 valid IDs (hmmm...2 IDs that I wouldn't need while they have them...ahhh my voter's ID and my DLSAA ID?)~~
~~do not forget to sign and place thumb mark on the form~~
~~sign undertaking form~~
~~do not staple photos~~
~~submit forms~~
~~Personal appearance (at DFA) - whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?!?!??!?! kasi daw yung machine-readable na daw lahat ng passports kaya kailangang personal appearance. arghhhhhhhhh~~
~~pay the fee of P1,500.00 (processing time is 15 to 30 days) tagaaaaal naman!!!~~

3. Renew driver's license. Actually, I wouldn't have noticed that it was about to expire until I got an e-mail reminder from the office's broker. To renew my license, I have to do the following:

~~accomplish application form for renewal (broker will send pdf file after a few days)~~
~~photocopy current driver's license~~
~~photocopy LTO official receipt for current license~~
~~get medical certificate from clinic -~~ The Clinic will forward the results directly to the broker.
have drug test. To have drug test, taking of w*** is before 3pm. Because the clinic will have to bring other submitted w***s for processing to their lab. I was informed that there's actually no preparation, they just need my w***. I prefer to submit in the morning para wala na akong iniisip pa. So to fill up one bottle (or cup ba yon?), I have to drink lots of water before leaving the house, go to clinic, ask nurse for the bottle (or cup ba yon?), proceed to the toilet, fill 'er up, give nurse the bottle (or cup ba yon?), pay fee of P300.. -- The Clinic will forward the results directly to the broker.
~~submit requirements to broker~~
~~pay fee of P432.88~~
~~get schedule of ID picture taking~~
~~Pray that I am drug free.~~

4. ~~Have haircut (dun sa cheap lang)~~

5. ~~Have newly cut hair colored hehehe (ito hindi cheap)~~

6. ~~Fix finances~~

7. Go to clinic for quarterly HB1AC.

8. For February, have Annual Physical Examination.

9. ~~Go to gym regularly, as in M-W-F for cardio-weights training. And T-TH for cardio exercises. This is if time permits.~~

10. Play badminton regularly. (Just got back from the clinic to see my doc -- got the go signal to play badminton again (low impact daw muna) and gym din pala. WAHOOOOO!!!!

It Pays To Be Sweet and Lovable

2008-01-23T14:53:00.000+08:00

My sister was so excited to tell me this story about our pamangkins (this happened 1 or 2 weeks ago, lagi ko lang pinagpapalibang ipost) (to self: Rhea, ang tamad tamad mo!!!)

One afternoon, our nephew Raymund (who is 6 years old) comes running to his yaya (he just came down from his Lola's room on the second floor).
Raymund (irritated): Ayoko na dun sa kwarto ni Lola.
Ate: Relax. Nakasigaw ka naman agad. Bakit?
Raymund: Si Lola kasi, ayaw ako papanoodin ng TV.
Regeena (my 4 year old niece, in her usual maldita stance): Baka hindi ka nagpaalam…
Raymund keeps quiet. Still irritated.
Later on they went back upstairs to Lola's room.
Regeena grabs the remote and goes to her Lola, sabay sabi ng (na pa-sweet pa), "Lola, pwedeng manood ng TV?"
Lola: Ok.
Regeena to her Kuya Raymund: Kita mo na. Hindi ka kasi nagpapaalam e.

Naku, ang cute cute talaga nila =)

3Rs: That's Raymund, my sister Rose and Regeena
(copied from Rose's Facebook account hehehe)

'Stronger'

2008-01-15T21:24:00.000+08:00

I was on my way home from work around 7pm and I heard on the radio (I was tuned in to RX) that Katie Holmes was able to finish the New York Marathon last November and credited Kanye West's song for helping her finish the grueling race. The first song that came to my mind was Kanye's kickass hit song "Stronger" from his latest CD "Graduation." And I was right.

When I first heard the song from KanyeTalk.com (now renamed KanyeLive.com) before it's official release, I was so sure that it was going to be a big hit, with its catchy, futuristic tune...even if Kanye borrowed some parts of it from Daft Punk's "Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger" and lyrics that I could not understand the meaning even if I search the internet or listen to it over and over again.

Anyway, the point is...I should probably do the same and listen to 'Stronger' on repeat track and check if it will also help me keep going back to the gym.

Oh, how I wish ako na lang si Katie Holmes at meron akong Tom Cruise na inuuwian. *big grin*

Hmmmm...

2008-01-10T10:45:00.000+08:00

I want to blog. I miss blogging na.. but I can't think of anything to blog about...maybe tomorrow.

*sigh*

Happy New Year!

2007-12-31T21:58:00.000+08:00

Before we bid 2007 goodbye, let us thank God for all the blessings we received and all the challenges given to us that helped us become a better person.

As my year end blog, here's a video I would like to share. I hope we continue to inspire each other in 2008 and in the years to come.

Merry Xmas

2007-12-24T18:30:00.000+08:00

Random Thoughts

2007-12-12T23:24:00.000+08:00

Just got home after an MNO with girlfriends. Margarita Night Out. Sakit ulo ko... It's been a busy week. Party everyday. Ughhh. Actually started last week. Had our department's yearend party last friday...then Fitness Club party last monday, Volleyball Club party last night, MNO tonight, Badminton Club party tomorrow night, and a dinner with my college friends on friday. Good thing my 2nd party on Friday was moved to next week. That means I still have 2 more parties next week. *Sigh* I miss going to the gym. Ang laki na ng tyan ko... You know, this sprain thing happened when I was beginning to enjoy running on the treadmill *sigh* On Saturday, i will have my 6th and last rehab session, then I need to see my doctor if I still need more rehab =( ...I start my leave tomorrow until the end of the month. But I still have to be in the office until the 19th. Don't ask why...I'm a bad person. I've not been going to mass ever since the sprain incident. I guess it was a convenient excuse during the first few weeks, but lately it shouldn't be my excuse anymore since I already went to Davao, I've been driving and going places. Sorry po. Guilty! Sad na tuloy ako... I have to go sleep now. I have to wake up early kasi off the road ako bukas...Gnyt...Sana I'll have a good day tomorrow.

You'll Be Mine Soon

2007-11-24T13:55:00.001+08:00

Lord, please, for Christmas...or pwede rin for my Birthday.

Pero kung Birthday ko, hanggang 15 January 2008 lang yung promo ng Canon.

Yung iPod Classic po? Sa susunod na lang po yon.

Kayo na po bahala, Lord.

Thank You.

Amen.

"..kaya hindi binigay sayo ang mahal mo kasi meron pang mas higit pa sa iyong ibibigay..."

2007-11-23T13:15:00.000+08:00

John Lloyd Cruz - Ang gwapo niya kahit umiiyak!!!

Bea Alonzo - Bagay sila ni John Lloyd. Sayang taken na silang pareho.

Derek Ramsay - Sobrang cute! Pa-share, Bex??

Maja Salvador - One of the most promising actresses in Pinoy showbiz but they should have taught her to adjust her voice para mas bagay yung role sa kanya...

Movie - nakakakilig *kilig*

Natawa ako dito

2007-11-20T12:46:00.000+08:00

Nang sumali si inday sa

Kris: Magandang gabi mga kapamilya, sa gameshow na ito importante ang sagot sa nag-iisang katanungang Deal or no Deal. Ang ating player ngayong gabi ay walang iba kundi ang fastest-rising household services manager na si Inday!

[umentra si Inday at nagpalakpakan ang mga tao]

Kris: Ok Inday, choose a briefcase.

Inday: Kris, I would opt for case #4 please.

Kris: Briefcase # 4... si Sharmel. Inday, matanong ko lang, how did you come up with the number 4?

Inday: Oh, do you really want to know Kris?

Kris: Oo naman. I'm sure kaya ko naman maintindihan yung sasabihin mo eh.

Inday: The number 4 was acquired based on a probability distribution function that involves integrating up to an area greater than or equal to that random number which should be generated between 0 and 1 for proper distributions.

Kris: Syet. tanong tanong pa kasi eh.

Kris: Ok Inday, choose 6 briefcases to open.

Inday: I would opt for 7, 24, 12, 2, 15 and 20.

Kris: Wait lang Inday, usually isa isa lang ang pagbubukas natin ng
case...

Inday: Why is that? As if I can change the outcome if we're to open a case each time I blurt out a number as opposed to opening each case immediately one after the other right?

Kris: Hayyy...babaguhin pa talaga mechanics (bulong sa sarili).

Kris: Anwyay, di bale na lang nga... tuloy tayo. Number 7. Natalie buksan na!!

[Yung audience sumisigaw ng LOWER!! LOWER!!!]

Kris: Teka lang, bago natin buksan... Inday, usually ang mga contestants naten ay sumisigaw ng "LOWER" every time magbubukas ng case.

Inday: Kris, I guess that's not the way I was taught in grade school. You see, I was taught that we should only use the comparative form of the word or add "ER" to the adjective if we are comparing two things. And since it is only the first briefcase that we are going to open, we have nothing to compare it to. Am I right?

[natahimik ang audience at napaisip]

Kris: Oo nga no!

Kris: Sige Natalie, Buksan mo na.

[Ang laman ng briefcase 7 ay Piso... Palakpakan ang mga tao]

Kris: Good start! Ano yung next case mo ulit?

Inday: Case number 24 please.

Kris: Chloe... buksan na...

[Audience sumisigaw ulit ng LOWER!! LOWER!!]

Kris: Wait lang guys, Inday may nabuksan ng case baket di ka pa rin sumisigaw ng "Lower"?

Inday: Oh my goodness Kris, how long have you been doing this? Have you ever encountered a value that is lower than a peso in this game? Tell me, is there any value left lower than the one we just opened? Sheesh.

[Napaisip ulit ang audience at natahimik]

Kris: Aarrgghh!!!! Chloe buksan na lang nga, pati na rin yung 12, 2, 15 and 20 buksan na rin para matapos na. [naiirita na] [At sunod sunod na ngang nabukas ang mga case ni Inday]
[nag-ring ang phone]

Inday: Ahh Kris, to save more time can you tell Banker that I'm not interested in his first offer. In the history of this game of chance, I have yet to see someone accept a first offer from the banker. It's quite pathetic and pretentious for contestants to pause and look around the audience as if asking for advice before ultimately rejecting the first offer. I mean come on, isn't that a waste of airtime?

Banker: Potahhh!!! [narinig sa set kahit sarado ang kwarto ni banker]

- Ito ang unang pagkakataon na marinig ng mga audience ang boses ni banker sa Deal or no Deal.

Deal or No Deal logo from abs-cbn.com

Street Party

2007-11-15T10:50:00.000+08:00

Click to enlarge

Movie Anyone?

2007-11-13T12:03:00.001+08:00

NOW SHOWING:

COMING SOON:

Beowulf, Fred Claus, Superbad, The Golden Compass, Lion for Lambs, Game Plan and We Own The Night posters from impawards.com

Enchanted poster from cinemablend.com

One More Chance poster from photobucket.com

Halloween

2007-11-11T23:38:00.000+08:00

I know it's already late, but these are some more pix I took last halloween (not included in my multiply):

Featured Book: The Talisman Unsealed by David Ples

2007-11-10T20:07:00.000+08:00

Click to enlarge to see a description of the the book and more about David

The book was first introduced during the Manila Book Fair 07 held at the World Trade Center in Pasay last 31 August.

The book was formally launched at Powerbooks Greenbelt last 20 October.

David's book launching was featured in today's episode of net 25's tribe.

I'm not going to review his book because I might be accused of being bias...oh did I mention, he's my nephew?