Happy New Year!

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

Random Thoughts

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

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..."

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

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

Click to enlarge

Movie Anyone?

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

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

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?

Social Networking...

Been getting a lot of email requests from friends lately to join this group and that. It's quite cool to join or sign up with all of them but honestly, I find it hard to maintain a lot of accounts (not to mention the username you have to think up and passwords you'll have to remember). The idea is okay, because you get to find long lost friends in your friends' list, make new friends, get in touch with friends, etc. Kaya lang, mahirap talaga pag sinalihan mo lahat. I only have multiply (for my pix and music), kodakgallery (some pix), blogspot/blogger (blogs) and friendster (friends?).

Anyway, here's a list of social networking websites I have received requests for, plus what they offer (usually, they're all the same).

Facebook - Photo and video sharing
MySpace - Blog, photo, music and video sharing
Ringo - Photo and video sharing
Tagged - Video sharing
Tubely - Online dating service, photo and video sharing
Zebo - Online shopping, photo sharing, forums
Zorpia - Blog, photo sharing, forums

My advice: Try to find out more about the service through their website, maybe ask around or search for friends who uses the site and if you think it suits your needs, then sign up.

As for me, I think the 4 sites I've mentioned above are all I need (hmmm...I think I signed up with Facebook a few weeks ago...ho-hum).

Twitter…

Hey, I think it’s cool. It’s like “micro-blogging.” I get to write anything I want——what I feel, what I’m doing, what I think about something...I get to update my friends of what I'm up to. It’s like a “shock absorber.” It’s like a virtual best friend.

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Shaddap...Bwahahahaha. Go get yourself one.

"Ya think?!"

*Sigh* I'm into "Hannah Montana" nowadays. Probably caused by watching too much cartoons on Cartoon Network and Disney Channel with my nephews and my niece.

The lead is played by Miley Cyrus who lives a double life as a regular teenage girl Miley Stewart and famous pop singer, Hannah Montana.

Miley Cyrus originally auditioned for the best friend part but eventually got the lead role. She's the real life daughter of Billy Ray Cyrus, who plays Robbie Stewart in the series. Btw, only her family and close friends know her secret. Each episode deals with life, personal conflicts, or problems that are easily solved with lessons learned by the end of the show.

Why do I like "Hannah Montana"?...I like Miley Cyrus, wholesome kasi siya. A good singer with a good voice. I know she'll go places. I like the plot of each and every episode. And maybe bacause I like the idea of having a double life. Parang exciting. I also like her relationship with her dad and brother and with her best friends. Every episode's super funny. And one more thing, I like her songs. Here's the newest one...

TRUE FRIEND

We signed our cards in letters BFF

You've got a million ways to make me laugh

You're lookin' out for me;

you've got my back

It's so good to have you around

You know the secrets I could never tell

And when I'm quiet you break through my shell

Don't feel the need to do a rebel yell

Cause you keep my feet on the ground

You're a true friend

You're here till the end

You pull me aside

When something ain't right

Talk to me now and into the night'

Til it's alright again

You're a true friend

You don't get angry when I change the plans

Somehow you're never out of second chances

Won't say "I told you" when I'm wrong again

I'm so lucky that I've found

A true friend

You're here till the end

You pull me aside

When something ain't right

Talk to me now and into the night

'Til it's alright again

True friends will go to the ends of the earth

Till they find the things you need

Friends hang on through the ups and the downs

Cause they've got someone to believe in

A true friend

You're here till the end

You pull me aside

When something ain't right

Talk to me now and into the night

No need to pretend

Oh, You're a true friend

You're here till the end

You pull me aside

When something ain't right

Talk to me now and into the night

'Til it's alright again

You're a true friend

You're a true friend

You're a true friend

How can you not like her show?

Meet David - Rated PG

Under the Davao Sun

Ahhhhh...we're back in Manila after 4 glorious days in beautiful Davao. Not a minute wasted, thanks to HazelV's ever-OC preparations, plus Bex and HazelT's friend Tristan who helped in deciding which hotel/resort to stay, where to buy, what to do in Davao. Btw, we had two Hazels in the trip. It wasn't confusing, it was easier to get their attention. All I have to do is say, "Hazel! Bex!" and they would all turn. Just two names. Beat that. Hehe.

Anyway, here's my account of our trip, with sidelights/highlights of the day.

Saturday, 20 October 2007
Around 10:30pm. Bex texts me saying they'll pick me up between 2:30am and 2:45am. They have to first pick up HazelT and then proceed to my place.

Sunday, 21 October 2007 - DAY 1
2:50am - We're already on our way to the Domestic Airport. They're surprised that I have the smallest bag. I travel light you see (just one knapsack and a carry-on bag).

3:30am-4:20am - Whole time was spent eating banana (Bex), coffee (HazelV), crackers (Me). We all brought our MP3 players, except for Bex. She can't use one because it's bad for her, might trigger her vertigo, which pissed her off (and also because wala siya makausap). So we suggested that she just listen to the FM radio on her phone (HazelT lent her earphones). Happy na siya.

4:20am - Boarding time. My seat preference: Window seat. I am 1F. Gotta turn off my phone. Still dark outside. First time to leave Manila this early. All the street lights were still on, just like when you're after dark in Antipolo overlooking the Metro.

4:45am - Take off from the Domestic Airport. Bex and I took pictures of the group, the clouds over Mt. Apo, including my bandaged foot.

6:15am - Smooth landing at the Davao International Airport. Kudos to Captain Guevarra.

7:30am - After a 20-minute cab ride to the wharf, we took another 8-minute boat ride to Paradise Island Park and Beach Resort. The other room was not available yet, so we had to share one room first. NP. After fixing our things, we agreed to have breakfast, then sunbathe and then go island hopping (at 1:00pm). We had breakfast of cold cuts, eggs, longganisa, coffee. First casualty: After breakfast, HazelT felt uneasy and had to go back to our room to rest. So just the three of us went sunbathing...

Around 11:00am - We all got hungry and HazelV, since she was already "tustado," ordered food for us. 12:00 noon - no food yet. HazelV recalled and is sure that she had requested that our food be delivered. Since we're all hungry, Bex went to the counter to check. After 10 minutes, here comes Bex and behind her were 2 waiters carrying our food. It turned out that when HazelV ordered, the lady at the counter who agreed to have the food delivered forgot all about it (or some other excuse). Although the practice was that diners are given numbers and are asked to come back after 10 minutes to claim their food, the point is they agreed to deliver the food. Mind you, HazelV was not given any claim number. So the food was just there on the counter...waiting... *sigh* and we were all super hungry and our island hopping schedule was at 1:00pm. HazelV had ordered rice, inihaw na bangus, cauliflower with garlic, liempo, mango juice. Good thing the food was yummy or else they will get another tongue lashing---from Bex again. While we were eating, and still grumbling (hehe!), here comes the resort's restaurant manager with 2 fresh buko juice. He started apologizing about the incident and promised that it will not happen again. I think they got scared. They got scared of Bex because after that incident, everywhere we go, they'd give us special treatment... hmmmmm. And the next time we ordered food, they'd offer to deliver it to us--even if we're at the far end of the resort.

Next activity: Island hopping. Our dive master is Randy of Wind and Wave Davao. He explained that the whole island hopping trip will take 3 hours and the package includes 3 diving/snorkeling sites (Talikud, Angel's Cove and Coral Garden), use of snorkeling gear, and speed boat. It took 45 minutes from Paradise Island to get to Talikud Island, to think that we used a speedboat to get there. So after 45 minutes, we reached our first dive/snorkeling site. Randy taught us how to use the gear, etc. Hazel took a diving intro course in Batangas a few months ago, as for me, have done snorkeling in Palawan, Bora, Mindoro, etc. So we weren't new to the experience. In the water, Randy was leading us to the many corals and fishes. After 10 minutes or so, we noticed that Bex was way behind us and had stopped snorkeling--head out of the water. She said she was overwhelmed by the depth and felt nauseous so Randy suggested that Bex just stay in the boat. So HazelV and I continued snorkeling and after about 10 minutes, we decided to transfer to another site. When we got back on the boat, we found Bex in one corner and was vomitting...wawa naman. Her vertigo was acting up again. We asked Bex if she wanted to go back to the resort and she said yes. So we just went back to the resort and decided to just do some snorkeling there. When we got to the resort, she vomited again. Randy quipped, "At least, meron na kakainin ang mga fish." Eeeek! Haha!

So Bex was taken back to our room, and changed to dry clothes. The nurse at the resort took her BP, which was normal. Bex said she just needs to lie down and rest. That's 2 casualties for the day. Hazel and I decided to continue our snorkeling with Randy. Hehehe. That was one hour of snorkeling. Hyper Hazel still wanted to do some kayaking, so as her friend, I said yes. We got the two seater. We had difficulty at the start and still had no coordination in the end. Good thing we did not hit any swimmers. After just maybe 10 minutes, we called it quits. But it was fun, we were laughing all through out.

For dinner, we had food delivered to HazelT and Bex's room (actually we ate at the veranda). We had inihaw na chicken, pinakbet, mixed seafood (sizzling) and sandwich for Bex plus dessert of course (mango with corn and blueberry with corn). After eating, I excused myself to wash my hands. When I got back to the dining table, I asked for HazelV, HazelT said she went back to our room to toothbrush. I said I will brush too. When I reached the room, Hazel was there fixing her things. After I brushed and got cleaned, HazelV was already in bed, so I also went to bed and watched some TV.

Monday, 22 October 2007 - DAY 2 - Pearl Farm Day Tour
6:00am - DING! DING! DING! DING! WHADDDAH()%$)#*)#(*$)#(@$. I was sure that was Bex. Hahahaha! It was only 6:00am!!!! Our alarm's set at 6:30am ARGHHHHH!!! FINE!!!! By 7:00am, HazelV and I were ready, expecting that the other 2 were also ready...only to find out that they were not. Haaayyy...I was hoping we could leave right away so we can catch the boat ride from Paradise to Pearl Farm Wharf and catch another boat to bring us to Pearl Farm. Oh, well. Hehehe! Meanwhile, we had coffee and clubhouse sandwhich (while waiting for the two).

Kwento:
HazelT: Itong mga to, iniwan ako kagabi. Sabi ni HazelV, magtutootbrash lang sya. Aba, hindi na bumalik. E si Rhea, magtutootbrash lang din daw. Aba, hindi na rin bumalik.
Me: E kasi nung pagkatapos kong magtutbrash, nakita ko si HazelV nakahiga na. E nainggit ako, nahiga na rin ako. Hihihihihi

7:45am - We arrived at the Pearl Farm Wharf (or so we thought). We later found out that it was not the Pearl Farm Wharf, it was the Waterfront Insular Hotel's wharf Arghhhh!!!! Pearl Farm's wharf is the other one to our right..."May daan po ba dito sa beach papunta duon?" "Wala po, kailangan pong lumabas kayo sa highway, sakay po kayo ng taxi, tapos pahatid po kayo sa Pearl Farm." Haaaay. It took us 10 minutes to get on the boat.

HB moment: We were already late, one of the last groups to board. When we got on the boat, an old man said, within our earshot, talking to the Pearl Farm people, "Hindi ba tayo ma-ooverload niyan?" @)%*&)@#*$%^) TATABA RIN HO KAYO!!!!!

9:00am - Arrived in Pearl Farm. Since this is HazelT's second time to be in Pearl Farm, she told us that we should take a tour of the place. We went to the Hilltop and then we took a yellow cab to take us to the other end of the Farm. HazelV and I availed of the massage (body scrub and aromatheraphy for her and aromatheraphy for me). While waiting we stayed in one of the huts:


One of the best massages I've had. Very peaceful, the only sound you'll hear is the waterfall right beside the Ylang Ylang Spa Room. Ahhhh bliss!!!

12:30pm - Had our buffet lunch at the Maranao Restaurant, just beside the swimming pool. Ahhhhh Myummy!!!

Kwento: While having lunch...
HazelV: Grabe ang cute ni Randy.
Me: Sinabi mo. Lalo na nung nag-alis na siya ng shirt niya. Gusto ko sana mag pa picture kaya lang hindi ata tama na sabihin na, "Randy, picture tayo" tapos si Bex nasususka sa isang tabi. Hahahahahaha.
Bex: Syet! Hmphhhh!!!

1:30pm - We went to Malipano Island (just across) to sunbathe.

4:00pm - Time to go and bid goodbye to Pearl Farm. Hazel got a splinter lodged on her thumb.

Back at Paradise, we had dinner of Inihaw na Chicken (again), seafood BBQ, Tuna Sisig. Desserts: Durian Crepe, Mango Pluff. HazelT and Bex got their massage. Hazel had her splinter removed by the resort's nurse (you should have seen her curse and cry hahahahaha)

Tuesday, 23 October 2007 - Day 3 - Transfer to Davao City
8:30am - Ready to sunbathe again problem was the sun wouldn't come out. Anyway, sun or no sun, sunbathe pa rin.

10:00am - We all got hungry. We had breakfast by the beach. We ate inihaw na panga ng tuna, etc., etc., plus watermelon shake and buko juice. By 10:35am, right after eating, tumaas na ang araw, time to sunbathe again. Haha!

Kwento: After eating lunch...
HazelT: Rhea, sayo itong tubig?
Me: Yup.
HazelT: Ok (sabay inom sa baso ko)
Hahahahahaha

12:00nn - We got ready to leave Paradise and transfer to the city. We're booked at Bagobo House Hotel.

1:30pm - After checking in, we got on a cab and went shopping at Aldivinco mall, it's similar to Greenhills or Cash and Carry. If you want to buy souvenirs at low prices, this is the place. We bought bags, pearl earrings and bracelets, magnets, dresses, shirts, pouches, keychains, etc.

Kwento: On our way to Aldivinco, on a cab ride.
Hazel: Manong, ano itong building na ito?
Manong driver: Yan ang Ateneo (de Davao).
HazelV: Ahhh, Neo.
Bex: Anong Neo? Sabi niya, "Ateneo"
HazelV: Ha? Ang rinig ko "Neo"
HazelT: Dyan siguro nag aral yun lalaki sa, sa...Matrix!!!
All: Bwahahahahahaha.
From then on ang "Ateneo " e "Neo" na. Hahahahahahaha

Places we went: Blugre Cafe - we tried their Durian Coffee, cakes and paninis. The Durian Coffee was delicious! Desserts were myummy (btw, HazelV hates durian haha!). I liked the place, I even bought their shirt that says, BLUGRECOFFEEHOLIC =)

After a few minutes, HazelT and Bex's friend Tristan arrived. We told him about our stay and the funny stories, including the Ateneo story. Btw, Tristan studied in Neo de Davao. Hehehe. Tristan brought us to the palengke to buy fruits -- Durian, Pomelo, Mangosteen, Lanzones. We had them packed and left them at the hotel. For dinner, Tristan brought us to Dusk Till Dawn which serves Native Chicken Barbecue. I read somewhere that it's one of Davao's best kept secret! For dessert, we looked for Davao's famous Marang (same family as Durian but does not have the offending smell). Unfortunately, out of season na ang Marang. We just went to this Durian street stall. Literally, it's a street stall, with plastic tables and chairs beside it. HazelT, Bex and myself tried it (Tristan chose the mas matapang na Durian variety na nakakalasing ang lasa--merong bitter after taste). After the Durian dessert, we went to Davao's Baywalk and there, we met David. After Baywalk, we went to Jack's Ridge a famous place in Davao which offers a spectacular view of the city.

Kwento: On our way to Jack's Ridge...
Tristan: Yan ang SM
Me: Davao?
Tristan: Cubao!
Bwahahahahahaha

A few minutes after midnight (I think), we left Jack's Ridge and Tristan brought us back to our hotel. See you soon, Tristan (IN MANILA!!!)

Wednesday, 23 October 2007 - Day 4 - City Tour
6:30am - Both our alarms went off at the same time, as in. Hahahaha. Gleng! After taking a shower, we had breakfast at Taps. Just a few meters away from Bagobo Hotel.

Our first stop was Citra Mina for frozen Tuna, Salmon, etc. for pasalubong. Next stop was the Philippine Eagle Center, a one hour car ride from the city. There were, I think, more than 50 eagles. We found out that these eagles were saved from poachers in Mt. Apo. The most popular is Pag-asa, the first Philippine Eagle successfully bred in captivity.

Next stop: Davao Crocodile Park. The park does not only have crocodiles of varying ages and sizes, they also have birds, mammals, reptiles, lagomorphs and fish. We then had lunch at Miggy's - a restaurant by the beach.

By 1:30pm, we were back at our hotel, getting ready for our flight going home.

Now, back to reality. It's work! Work! and more WORK!!! Arghhhh

More of our pics here and here.

Davao and Back Again

Haha! Arrived in Manila around 7:45pm and got home after 9:00pm. Good to be back!!! But I miss Davao already buhuhu!

If there's one law in Davao that we violated, it's:

Now that we're back in Manila, Davao can now relax. NO KIDDING.

I will upload our pix soon =) and do watch out for my "Under the Davao Sun" blog entry.

Cheers!

And I'm Off...

...to DAVAO in 6 hours!!!! Wahooo!!!

I'll be back on Wednesday. Watch out for our pictures.

The 82nd Lord of Stormhold and the Star

I must say THE MOVIE IS BETTER THAN THE BOOK!!!

I first heard about Neil Gaiman when he visited Manila in 2005, the best selling author of Stardust, Coraline, American Gods, to name a few.

First, let me tell you what I think about the book. The book is odd...oddly strange but magically entertaining. I don't have to tell you about the summary since you can google about it anyway *Reeyah giving the smart a** look*

All I will say is that it's an adventure/fantasy book about family, friendship, romance, danger, adventure, magic and stupid things one will do for 'LOVE.'

Now who said adventure/fantasy books were only for kids? Haha.

A good read.

Now, about the movie. As I said, it's way, way better than the book. No kidding! Even if a lot of characters, scenes and details were omitted (e.g., Tommy Forester, Tristan's foster mother, 2 men guarding the break in the wall at all times, etc.), that characters in the movie were extended or elaborated (e.g., Captain Shakespeare played by Robert De Niro); and that it had a different ending, it did not change the essence of the story. I also noticed that even the name of Tristran (in the book) was changed (Tristan).

But I think the best thing about the movie was that it's super funny (and I hate to say it, the book was more serious). I enjoyed every minute of it. I didn't care if I was the only one laughing when we watched it =)

It's a must see film. So go and watch it. I know you'll enjoy it as much as I did.

Movie poster from Flixter.com

Book cover pic from Powell.com

Happy Birthday, Sis!

It's my sister's birthday today.

She's 4 years younger than me, so do the math ;)

When we were younger, when our billiard area was still an open terrace, we used to have an iron swing (a four seater) placed near the marble rails leading to our main door. One time, nearing dinner time, I was sitting on the marble ledge with my back to our garage and my sister was on the opposite ledge facing me (behind her was the swing). I was horsing around, raising my foot to reach her. To avoid being hit/touched, she would sway back and forth. All of a sudden, to my horror, when she swayed back, she lost her balance and fell head first (imagine a diver going in the water). At first, I thought she was okay but when I saw blood, I cried and called for help. It was only then that I realized that she hit her head on the swing's iron support (which was not round but edged). She was rushed to the hospital. That was one of the scariest moments of my life. I thought we were going to lose her and it was all my fault.

Fortunately, there were no broken bones. She sustained a 3-inch cut that needed I-don't-remember-how-many stitches. The surrounding hair had to be shaved so they can stitch up the cut. Like any other scar, it doesn't grow any hair, so it's easily located--but you'll have ask her first before you look for it =). Every time she is reminded of that cut, she would always give me the "GRRRRR" look. That's probably why I'm scared of her (hehehe).

My sister has the stronger personality (e.g., suplada, mataray, lahat lahat na...Bitch ata tawag dun haha), a go-getter, a natural-born leader (she used to be president of DLSU-CSB Pep Squad, KB Chairman, council member in Mandaluyong, etc.). Sobrang dami ng friends, very popular. A typical Libra: diplomatic and urbane, romantic and charming, easygoing and sociable, idealistic and peaceable.

That's my sister. My Best Friend.

Happy birthday! I love you so much, sis!




Check out her blog here.

Shallow Me

It's almost two weeks since my ankle sprain incident and it has been an office-house house-office thing for me. My Kuya's driver brings me to the office and my uncle (if he's at home) picks me up in the afternoon. Honestly, I don't feel comfortable asking somebody to drive for me but in a situation like this, I have no choice. But I don't mind getting on a cab going home (which I have been doing since Monday).

In the office, I've been glued to my workstation. If I have to photocopy, I just use the front office's copy machine. No problem when I print, the network printer is just a few steps away. If someone requests for a document or information which will require me to do some research in the central files, I just call E to request for it (although I hate having to ask her, I still prefer to do it myself).

I actually miss:

...driving to the office and the excitement of knowing if I can get a slot in the basement parking.

...going to the cafeteria to get a sandwhich or to have lunch (and get to see my friends there).

...going to the copy center and to chat with my department mates along the way.

...going to Figaro or to the 3rd floor vending machine for my cappuccino.

...Megamall during lunch.

...going to Rockwell and Shangri-La on weekends.

...going to MusicOne, Oddyssey or Astroplus everytime I go malling just to see what's the latest CD, and to Powerbooks to see the latest books.

...shopping.

...eating at McDo or Pollo Loco or KFC or Java Man.

...going to the gym (the "thrill" of rushing to leave my workstation early to be able to use the equipment I want).

...playing badminton, basketball and volleyball (probably have to give up 1).

...walking fast.

...doing multiple errands.

...going down a flight of stairs without difficulty.

...watching movies or simply going out with friends.

*SIGH*

ANG KWENTO KO

Friday, 5 October 2007

Rhea - Ang Bida
Becky & Hazel - The Bodyguards
Marie - Passerby
Mylene - The Leg Raiser
Jake - The Car Transferer
Mama Carms - Key keeper #1
Reena - Key Keeper #2
Therese, Cynthia & Mylene (in a double role) - Voltz Teammates
Teng, Claire and Nancy - The Dragons (aka Opponents)
Rommel & Rey (the Canadian Embassy guy) - The Male Supporters
May - The Lady Guard
Anonymous – The Male Guard

It was the last game of this season's Ladies 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament before going to the finals. It was actually a no-bearing game as the Voltz and the Gems were already competing in the finals next Friday. It was fairly an even match up as only 3 players from both teams were available to play. My teammate Mylene was still out because of an injury she sustained from a badminton accident a few weeks ago. Mart, from the other team, was not available that Friday. So, that meant no substitutions for the whole 20 minutes for both teams.

I left my workstation around 5:30pm because I wanted to be early so I could warm up and practice shooting hoops. I left documents on my desk as I was planning to come back and work after the game. I was helping my friend Agie finish her RRP (which we OTed the previous night - went home after 11pm).

Game time was 6:00pm and the bleacher was filled to the rafters with 5 hecklers (Jake, Mawie, Rommel, Rey plus teammate Mylene). Hahahahaha.

Anyway, already 6 minutes into the game, the score was 0-8. We couldn't get our shooting game going. The pressure was growing (because of one heckler) and then the unexpected thing happened...

All I remember was I jumped for a rebound and on my way down, something happened and next thing I knew, there was numbness on my left foot. Something was terribly wrong. I immediately apologized to the person nearest to me, Cynthia, afraid that I stepped on her poor foot, but said I didn't step on her. But added that she felt something hit her knees. Sayang walang replay. tsk tsk!

At that moment, all I wanted to do was to sit down. Mylene called security for first aid. May, the Lady Guard, was first on the scene (wow parang CSI). She removed my sock which showed the left side of my foot already swelling. She bandaged my foot and placed an ice pack.

While sitting on the floor, a lot of things were going through my mind:

• Do I have to go the hospital and get my ankle x-rayed?
• Naku, my mom will worry when she finds out =(
• Pano na yung mga things ko sa workstation ko? Agie’s RRP? My computer? I couldn’t even remember where I placed the key to our room? Who can I ask? Haaaay
• My car! It’s parked in the basement! Even if my Kuya comes over to get it, somebody first has to drive it to the open parking. Arghhhhhh! E hindi pa naman marunong magdrive si Hazel at si Becky hehehehe Is my Kuya even at home??? Double Arghhhhhh Kung meron mang maglalabas ng car, and I’ll be taken to the hospital, sinong mabait na nilalang ang mag-aabot ng susi sa kuya ko? waaaaaah
• Yung finals next week nitong 3-on-3 basketball game? Yung badminton intercolor? Sorry, teammates =(
• Yung plan namin ni Bex to go to Purple Oven (supplier ng pastries ng Starbucks). Arghhhh
• Yung dinner MNO? My Tuesday Badminton? My Wednesday gym? My Thursday movie date (kung sino man ang mahatak ko)? My Friday Gym? Yung dinner ko on Friday? Yung Babyface concert ko sa Saturday? Yung lakad ko pa after the concert? Naku, yung Davao trip? Si Beyonce??? (OA na to)
• The mere fact that this happened, ang dami nang tao ang magagambala ko. Nakakahiya! HASSLE talaga!

One by one, Hazel, Becky, Reena and Carms arrived. When they found out what happened to me, they all wanted to help. May, meanwhile, explained that it’s up to me if I wanted to go to Medical City to have my foot x-rayed, which was highly recommended. I said yes, just to be sure.

So, Hazel and Becky volunteered to get my things from my workstation and come with me to Medical City (masaya ang mga bruha dahil sasakay sila ng ambulance). Reena suggested that when Howard arrives, they will get my car and drive to Medical City to get us and drive me home. I agreed, so Reena went back to her workstation to fix her things.

After a while, Hazel and Becky came back and I was able to change to dry clothes. By this time I was saying yes to everything (adding to the confusion). Finally, May suggested to just ask my Kuya to get the car from the office, go to Medical City and pick me up from there. So I requested Jake if she could get my car out of the basement (pumayag naman kahit hindi alam kung saan sa basement ako nakapark hehe). Carms volunteered to keep the key and to hand over to my Kuya when he arrives (eventually, the key keeper duty was transferred to Reena as Carms had to leave early and meet Papa Melo).

So, the trip to Medical City was a short one (no traffic e). My foot was x-rayed by Jed (XXX) and Dra. Santos (the ER doctor) explained that based on the initial x-ray reading, there’s “no fracture or dislocation.” Just an ankle sprain. My foot has to be bandaged: snug but not tight…must be elevated…ice compress for 48 hours…to watch out for severe pain and swelling…and minimum weight bearing on the leg. After 2 hours in the hospital, umuwi na kami.

Yon. Yon nangyari sa akin last Friday.


Afterthought:
Is this God's way of telling me to slow things down? not to sweat the small stuff? to relax? to trust Him? to have more faith in Him? to be more patient? not to take things for granted? umuwi ng maaga?

I realized I have a lot of friends who care (kahit ang lakas nilang mang-asar habang wala akong kalaban laban na nakataas ang paa ko nung friday, at sermonan ako na wag pasaway at wag muna maglakwatsa)...

I have a family na talagang maaasahan.

I am very thankful to all my friends who texted, at nangamusta the whole weekend, to those who texted na hindi ako dapat mawala sa mga scheduled lakad the next week, mga bumisita nung pumasok na ako, mga nag email and lalo na to my friends (from HS and HB) na tinext ko dahil I had to cancel yung mga lakad namen =( Thank you for understanding. Di bale babawi ako.

When I got my x-ray plate, I texted a friend and told her "ang laki ng mga buto ko." She texted back saying, "Just feel blessed at least may buto ka, no matter how big or small, buto pa rin yan...hahahahaha."

38 Questions (Tagged by Mawie)

1. Name one person who made you laugh last night? Regeena

2. What were you doing at 0800? Was at Medical City getting my xray plate

3. What were you doing 30 minutes ago? On a car ride going home

4. What happened to you in 2006? I got promoted *wide grin*

5. What was the last thing you said out loud? Hahahaha (sharing a laugh with Bex who kept me company until 6:30pm tonight)

6. How many beverages did you have today? 2 (water and a diet soda)

7. What color is your hairbrush? brown

8. What was the last thing you paid for? My sister's passport (I had it renewed at Amex)

9. Where were you last night? At home (can't go anywhere far actually)

10. What color is your front door? Red

11. Where do you keep your change? a glass in my cabinet, a small wallet in my bag, a perfume tube in the office

12. What’s the weather like today? Sunny

13. What’s the best ice-cream flavor? Vanilla

14. What excites you? Going out with friends

15. Do you want to cut your hair? Not now

16. Are you over the age of 25? Yes

17. Do you talk a lot? Depends on who I'm talking to

18. Do you watch the O.C.? Sometimes (my Kuya's influence)

19. Do you know anyone named Steven? Yes

20. Do you make up your own words? Sometimes

21. Are you a jealous person? Yes

22. Name a friend whose name starts with the letter ‘A’. Agie

23. Name a friend whose name starts with the letter ‘K’. Karen

24. Who’s the first person on your received call list? My uncle

25. What does the last text message you received say? "Err...yung hair nya sa ulo?"

26. Do you chew on your straw? No

27. Do you have curly hair? Sabi nila

28. Where’s the next place you’re going to? Tomorrow? Office. Can't go malling (doctor's order). What a bummer!

29. Who’s the rudest person in your life? Can't say here.

30. What was the last thing you ate? Red Ribbon's Banoffee Pie (syet! it's just there inside the ref. What was I supposed to do?)

31. Will you get married in the future? Yes

32. What’s the best movie you’ve seen in the past 2 weeks? I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry (with friend Bex)

33. Is there anyone you like right now? None at the moment

34. When was the last time you did the dishes? Can't remember

35. Are you currently depressed? Currently? No

36. Did you cry today? Today huh? No (but mababaw luha ko)

37. Why did you answer and post this? I got tagged by my friend Mawie =)

38. Tag 5 people who would do this survey. Rose, Pearl, Carms, Donna and Hazel

Bakit?

Why is the sky blue?
Why is the grass green?
Pano nangyayari na pag merong lamok sa umaandar na sasakyan, para din siyang umaandar?
Bakit orange ang orange?
Meron ba talagang pot of gold at the end ng rainbow?
Meron ba talagang UFO?
Bakit ang blackboard green?
Absence ba of color ang black?
Bakit pag nawalan ng kuryente blackout ang tawag? Pano pag merong kuryente?
Bakit pag tuck na, in pa?
Bakit pag nagpa car wash ka, saka naman uulan?
Bakit yung gusto mong mangyari, hindi nangyayari?
At ang ayaw mo mangyari, yun ang nangyayari?
Bakit pag malungkot, umiiyak?
Bakit pag umiyak, nangongongo?

Ngyet, Manget????

We're Definitely Back

DLSU Alma Mater Hymn

Hail, Hail
Alma Mater,
Hail to De La Salle!
We'll hold your banner high and bright,
A shield of green and white,
We'll fight to keep your glory bright,
And never shall we fail,
Hail to thee our Alma Mater!
Hail! Hail! Hail!

We're definitely back. We're One La Salle!

St. John Baptist De La Salle
Pray for Us
Live Jesus in Our Hearts
FOREVER!!!!

October People

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

4 October - Alfie, my smash & chow friend

13 October - Lorna, my confidant - na welcome ako lagi sa room niya kahit makiki-chika lang about nothing or makikipagkulitan lang, kinuha tuloy akong ninang ng bunso niya

18 October - Rose, my sister, best friend, shopping buddy

19 October - Rowena, my sis-in-law

20 October - Gladdys, my mommy friend

21 October - Bob, B-O-B Boy =)

25 October - Grace, my textmate/chatmate/next door neighbor/walang sawang tumatawa at nakikinig sa mga jokes & daily kapalpakan ko

26 October - Hazel, my good friend & travel buddy - always ready to help when I'm in a bind

27 October - Regeena, my cute lovable huggable niece, who never fail to make me smile when I'm down

Highlight of My Tuesday

My clam phone (a year-old Samsung E730) has this picture as cover display (external):

That's me with my niece Regeena.
Once you close the phone, this picture would show for only 3 seconds.

And when you open it, this is the wall paper or main display:

When my sister and I went to Toy Kingdom last weekend, we took some pics. I then changed my cover display (external) to this:



When I came home last night after a night out with friends (around 11pm), my niece Regeena and her yaya were still in our room with my mom. As usual, she borrowed my phone to play with it. She then opened slightly my phone and closed it and looked at the picture on my cover display.

With a nakasimangot look, she turned to me and said, "Bakit hindi na yung picture natin?" I said, "Gusto mo ba ang nakalagay diyan yung picture natin?" She said (with the paawa look), "Uh-huh."

Awwwwwww. Sobrang sweet. Kaya I got back my phone and put back the old picture of us together. And when I handed to her my phone, she checked the cover display and wow! kung nakita mo lang yung smile on her face when she saw our picture. sobrang big smile. haaaaaay. sobra! Highlight of my day *happy me*

Prayer for Friendship

We thank you, Lord,

for friends who love us,

share our sorrows,

laugh with us in celebration,

bear our pain,

need us as we need them,

and who give us the freedom to be ourselves.

Bless them with health, wholeness, life and love.

Amen

Movie or Gym?

Thursday, 27 September 2007
4:37pm

And the winner is...

Mr. Space Ship

View from our second floor window.

After enjoying more than 10 years parked inside our garage, we now have to move him out to give way to my sis-in-law's new car (and her other car). Saddens me because he'll now be exposed to more rain, dirt, mud, dust, to thieves, to vandals -- arghhhhh.

Wawa naman siya...

Cute!

P140 for bottomless iced tea? Expensive...but hey, the ad's still cute! And besides, the lunch was free *wide grin*

Clubbing at the Caf

Bwahahaha...just enjoyed all the songs the band played during the coop anniversary last Friday. Had a grand time dancing and heckling with friends -- Hazel, Becky, Karen, Ruby, Mylene, Georgia, Meng, Gina, Diesel, and anybody who happened to pass by in front of us that night. More pictures soon (I hope).

Btw, Karen and Diane won that night! Lucky you!

Straight...

...volleyball-basketball-badminton days, late nights with good friends, busy weekends plus sleepless nights, stress, depression, anxiety, I think they're all catching up on me. I've been sleepy and tired the past few days. My pareng Bob (inaanak ko bunso niya) caught me sleeping at yesterday's staff meeting. E nasa tapat pa ako nung DG at dalawang director namen. Bwahahahahahaha. Epal ang dating. Couldn't stop my eyelids from drooping hehehehehe


*Sigh*


I'm not complaining though. These new found activities helped me meet new friends, rekindle old friendships, strengthen old ones. These activities have helped me forget my problems, made life a lot easier. I wouldn't exchange it for the world.

VMONO!!!!

Mga Pare Ko

Sarah, Divine, Dina and Me (not in picture: Flor)

We've been friends since '93 (I was only 21 then. My first job, you see).

We called ourselves 'Mga Paremo.'

Divine, Flor and I were temp staff that time and Sarah and Dina were already regular staff. Sarah and Dina never treated us differently and that made the difference. Flor and Divine have already left and are now working for separate companies.

As for Sarah, Dina and myself, we don't see each other that often anymore. Probably because things changed, our lives changed, we changed, I changed. It's hard to think that we're just in a small building but we're all far apart.

I miss the time when...
...we'd have lunch at Sarah's workstation and sleep afterwards inside her boss' office (hehe)
...we'd eat and then order drinks at Tia's during lunch break (hehe)
...we'd chaperone Divine to her dates
...we'd follow Dina to her dates to find out if she needs rescuing
...we'd just hang out at Sarah's workstation after office hours
...we'd accompany Sarah to watch her favorite band play anywhere (think Groupies!!!)
...I'd bring home Dina to her place in Paco, Manila after a night out
...Dina and Sarah would call me 'pare' everytime they see me anywhere in the office
...Dina would laugh real hard at a joke I just said
...we laughed at the detailed story of how Sarah gave birth
...we cried when Sarah was feeling sad and depressed.

I also remember the time when I went home after a night out with the girls and it was already 6am, I thought my dad will not catch me (I also forgot to call that I'll be going home late) but guess what, my dad was outside our house watering the plants (na hindi naman niya ginagawa) and saw me get down from the cab alone (mortal sin yon!!! Wala akong dalang kotse non). I knew he was waiting for me but all he said was "Kumain ka na?" Yaaaaaaay!!!

But I still believe that the best friendship doesn't come when you're together. It comes when you're apart and realize that despite the distance, the friendship is still there...

Miss you, guys!

My Visual DNA

Saw this on my sister's blog kaya I made my own.

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

My New Blog Header Picture

Nice huh!? When I first saw the plants on Bex's house's driveway in Bataan, I immediately fell in love with it. It was already almost 5pm and its small yellow flowers were not visible anymore. Bex told me that I should wait till I see them in the morning. Tagal naman...

Anyway, I later...actually "we" later found out that its name is Mani-mani. Okay, Mani-mani it is. But if you look closely at its beautiful yellow flowers, you'll have an idea why its called Mani-mani.

Is it me or is it just me?

*Sigh*

Wednesday, 12 September 2007
10:00pm

Went home early today kasi naglambing si Mama this morning na umuwi ako ng maaga. Being a good daughter, I did go home early. Left the office at 5:30pm. Shempre nagulat siya. Hehehe --- been going home late everyday to her chagrin (I know).

I decided to finish watching Commander in Chief Season 1. Around 9:00pm I got bored and offered to drive my sister to her office in Makati . When I checked my wallet to see if I have my driver's license, it wasn't there. The only time I remove my license from my wallet is when I'm going out for a short drive (that doesn't need any spending), so I checked my little black bag and found it inside. I remembered the last time I used that was 2 weeks ago *sigh* and that meant, I have been driving the past 2 weeks without a license...office, Makati, QC, San Juan, Pasig, oh no, BATAAN!!!!

*Sigh*

Bataan Road Trip (Weekend #36)

Back from an out of town trip with good friends.

Click here to see my pictures.

Drooling for...

160 GB

40,000 songs

Up to 40 hours of music playback

Up to 7 hours of video playback

$349.00

My 30GB ZVM is almost filled up with songs and movies.

This would be a good Christmas gift for myself.

Gotta call my cousins and friends in the US.

Hahahahahahaha!

Color Experiment

Does my new color scheme give you a headache?
Let me know.

Sensya na, this is my eccentric side...

Asar Kwento #1

I was on my way to our floor's pantry to get some ice for my sore foot/ankle when I found this on the door...

...when the only other door is...


yup, the elevator.

Office Funnies