My Doll House In A Prairie

Kim's Pre-18th Birthday Celebration

2010-05-09T17:31:00.000+08:00

Last friday, I decided to stay at my grandparent's house in Paranaque for Kim's 18 birthday, mommy and daddy's despedida and fiesta. Needless to say, we had fun.

We went there around 4pm and decided to do some "wine tasting" with cousins and Kim. I decided to bring the girls at Mall of Asia to buy some alcoholic beverages for a night of Basic Alcoholic Beverage Drinking 101.

We got there around 7pm and took our time in choosing the right wine/alcoholic beverage. I chose Bacardi, Baileys for her intro 101 and Champagne to take the edge off. (LOL)

After that, we went to YellowCab for dinner. Kim, Jackie, Inah, Nikka, KC and I ate 18" New York Pizza, 10" Hawaiian Pizza and Chips with Cheesy Salsa. We took pictures, talked about Kim's birthday and made fun of everyone. It was sort of her pre-18th birthday celebration. We kept on laughing the whole time. By 9pm, we went to seaside for henna. My cousins wanted to try it out. We ended up going home almost 11pm.

When we got home, we couldn't really celebrate her pre-birthday party because a neighbor/family friend passed away next door. It was also her last wake. We decided to stay indoor for our drinking session. Jackie, KC, Inah and Nikka liked Baileys better. Kim and I decided to drink Bacardi Apple. We were wasted by 1am. Kim was all red. I was too. By 3am, we went to bed and the next day para kaming giant tomato because of welts scattered in our body. Buong Saturday, Kim was so worried about her skin. I kept on teasing her na she's no longer an alcoholic beverage virgin LOL.

By nightfall, we decided to sleep in a huge tent outside our grandparents house. Para nga lang kaming nagcamping, we even had our midnight snacks around 1am. She officially turned 18 today. Dapat may party but hindi lahat ng plans nasusunod.

It's a good thing we have some back up plans for her birthday. It didn't go like how we planned it a couple or months ago due to financial constraints with her family. My uncle renovated my grandparents house so don na agad napunta yung money. I talked to them a couple of weeks ago and planned a getaway celebration in a nearby beach resort. It didn't push through as well because Mommy and Daddy arrived from California. They stayed here for almost 2 weeks and naging busy lahat. Kim's birthday took a backseat kaya when I arrived last friday I decided to splurge a little for her kahit hindi pa niya birthday. And since Fiesta today at my grandparent's place, Zash, Shaun and Sharlene dropped by. Too bad they missed our the girl night out qne the drinking lesson 101 for Kim.

I still want the birthday party at the beach to push through. I just need people to pitch in a little. I can't shoulder the expenses alone eh. Hopefully, someone would help hehehe. I want her to have fun din naman kasi lalo na now that she's 18. As I've learned through the years, time is precious and life is too. So we should make the most of it.

Anyway, I just got home. Mommy and Daddy went back to California na din kaninang 9pm. Kim's birthday by 12 midnight is officially over but I know the party has just started so I'll try to keep the dream alive LOL. Sana this coming week beach party na,

HAPPY MOMMY'S DAY TO EVERYONE.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KIMMY!

The Ugly Truth, The Proposal, The Beauty and The Briefcase, Hush, Hush

2010-05-01T15:30:00.000+08:00

If you're wondering what my blog title is all about - well - these are movies and books that I've watched and read this weekend.

I would like to share my two cents about all of it.

THE UGLY TRUTH

I wanted to watch this movie during its movie premiere but I was so busy with a lot of stuff that I haven't got the time nor the company to be with. I don't think my younger cousins would appreciate this kind of film. Anyway, I love Katherine Heigl. She's amazing in this movie. I am a fan of her since her "My Father, The Hero" days. I think acting wise she's okay in this film. It's a bit raunchy but as the title suggests it - It's the ugly truth about men and women when finding love. Men based it on sexuality. Women based it on their so-called "ideal list." This movie made me realize that women like to feel secure first in love before diving to the next step. On the other hand, men are more likely to be more random about the situation. They later make assessment on whether the girl they slept with is someone they could spend more time with. However, this movie also makes me realize that eventhough men and women are so different when it comes to their approach in finding a partner, they're are still drawn to the fact that the person they're with should be someone they're comfortable with. If a guy and girl is comfortable with each other regardless of the situation or topic, they are immediately drawn to each other. That's how Katherine and Gerard became a perfect match in this movie. The movie will give you the lowdowns on love and sex but it would also make you realize some other things. You will notice it once you watch this film. I'm giving it a 4 out 5.

THE PROPOSAL

This movie made me laugh and cry. Sandra is definitetly good in making romantic comedy movies. Her personality is so quirky. She can make you laugh and make you cry then again it's probably because the movie is a good one. Ryan is also fun to watch. Their chemistry is good. This movie kinda reminds me of "While You Were Sleeping." The main girl and guy hid something to the family of the guy that once they tell the truth something bad could happen to the oldest member of the family. I like how they focus the story in making it funny for the audience. Siguro if they lessen the funny parts the movie would be a total snooze. One thing na nagdala sa movie was it's witty, funny lines. I was laughing until the middle part of the movie. I cried lang sa last part. The part where she needed to tell everyone the whole lying thing. It wasn't tearjerker pero I got teary eyed because I could really feel how much it hurts for Sandra's part to be on that position. From the very start of the movie kasi, you can really tell na she's a very lonely person kahit yung persona niya sa office is a cold, bitchy woman. In the end, you'll see the walls of her falling down and makikita yung vulnerability niya. I give this movie 4.5 out 5 just because it made me feel different emotions after watching the film.

THE BEAUTY AND THE BRIEFCASE

My cousin gave me this external hd that has movies in it. One of those is this tv-movie. It's a little cliche because I've seen this kind of role from Reese Witherspoon in Legally Blonde and Isla Fisher in The Confession of a Shop-a-holic Girl. I grew out of those kind of movies and this one brought me back to those times. Hilary shouldn't play this kind of role na eventhough the script is a bit mature pero she should stop playing stereotypical roles of a blonde girl/fashion/cosmo dream/perfect bf must-haves kind of thing. Aside from the fact na irritating yung voice ng mga ganitong kind ng roles and yung actions nila, the story is a bit cheesy. Mejo shallow yung storyline. I don't think women in their 20s would love this movie. Maybe if you're 15 and you're starting to enjoy the fashion life and boys - yeah makakarelate ka. Even if the role of Hillary Duff here is 20 something, it feels like her characterization is too immature. I'll give it a 2.5 out 5. Not bad but not my kind of movie.

Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

This is the book that I just finished reading a few days ago. This reminds me of Twilight Saga. I am fan of the saga and I am familiar with the story. This one is almost the same as the Twilight except of the vampire and werewolf thing. This book is about a fallen angel named Patch. His wings were stripped down a long time ago and in order to get it back he needs to save someone and be her/his guardian angel. As a fallen angel - a bad one - he needs to kill. Unfortunately, he fell in love with the girl and the rest is history. SOUNDS FAMILIAR???? Just like what I've said para siyang twilight binago lang yung characterization and situation but when you analyze it parang same din kasi he can't kill the girl because he's in love with her. He'll protect her from other fallen angels. Mejo mixed reactions yung akin about this book. I kind of like it. I even named my new netbook as "Patch" but at the same time parang I feel like ripped off siya ng story ni Stephenie Meyer. If you try to write stories na almost the same yung story line then readers will compare it to the first book that they read na same ng flow ng story. I like the concept of the fallen angel but I wish it was not about a young girl in HS again na he needs to kill then later on he'll protect because he loves her. It would be nice if Becca Fitzpatrick tried a different approach sa character niya na si Patch. Maybe change the story to a bad boy Patch who died and later became a fallen angel. He was given a task to do to reach heaven but it becomes complicated when his task is about his girlfriend or something. I think it would have been way better then again it's just my opinion. It's still a good read for teens and young hearts like me.

103 Days of Summer

2010-04-29T21:19:00.000+08:00

It's been 103 days since I lost interest in blogging. My last blog entry was made 90 days ago and at that time I forced myself to write something for a dear friend of mine who died 103 days ago.

One of the reasons why I stopped blogging for quite sometime was the fact that my "thinky" died out on me last year. I had to use my phone and relatives laptop/desktop to finish my work. Another reason was because I lost someone dear to me this year. I didn't know why I suddenly lost interest in blogging my life. I just want to spend my time with the people that I really love. Life is fast. It's unpredictable. I just want some "breathing moment."

Also, it kind of make me sad that she's gone because she used to read my blog entries all the time. I know that I won't be seeing her in my view page anymore but I know she's watching in heaven for everybody she loves.

To start of my so-called time away in blogging, I spent most of my time with cousins. I did my usual routines and was able to finished everything in good faith. I became more cautious with my father's health problems and we were back and forth in Perpetual Hospital for his regular check up with Dr.Luna. Fortunately, he is okay and healthy.

I've also been trying to improve my relationship with God by praying the rosary every single day. It was one of my new year resolutions. I've been doing that for a couple of months now and I haven't missed a beat so far. Mostly, I pray for forgiveness, protection, guidance and blessings. I always mention my friend's soul, my mom and tatay's soul to be at peace. Good health for family and friends. I'm getting use to that kind of routine. I figured... may 24hrs sa isang araw, why not spend 20 minutes in praying everyday. It's not a bad deal or a waste of time. Besides, I'm used to that kind of routine since my high school days at St.Paul College where we had to pray every single weekdays 3x (before our first class, before lunch and before going home). I really recommend this to my friends and family kahit na ano pa ang religion nila. Spend 20 minutes with God everyday. It helps. It really helps.

Then I also spend quality time with cousins a few weeks ago in Canossa just to unwind. It's something that I always need but haven't got the time to do it or the company to be with. It de-stressed me from a lot of things that's why mas happy na ako now. Lalo na after Chie got me "patch" - my new love hehehe. Thanks so much cuz. It's hard because with everything that I had to sacrifice last year financially and materially - ito yung something na pwede kong mabili but I sacrificed that "luho" for something or someone na mas important. It's a good gift. I consider it as a blessing from above through my cousin's generous heart. LOL

I was so excited about it that I tweaked everything the night I got it. THANK YOU. MUCH LOVE Chie.

It's definitely one of the reasons why I got inspired again na magblog. Losing a friend, dogs, thinky - so much to comprehend pero God always comes through no matter what talaga.

I don't want to consider myself na religious na but this year made me appreciate everything more and it greatly improved my relationship with him.

The summer is not over yet. The election is 10 days na lang ata or less and Kim's 18th birthday is 9 days to go. Mommy and Daddy are here in pinas. Life is good. Hopefully, I can make things even more special for those that I love.

I'm definitely back.

Friends Forever

2010-01-29T23:25:00.000+08:00

Year 2010 is something I'm looking forward to happen last year. One reason is that I always believe that every new year means I can create a new chapter of my life, a fresh start and a new beginning. I am always hoping for good things to come my way.

Sadly, it didn't turn out that way...

Don't get me wrong. I had a great new year's eve with my family. I cooked fettucine and bought a bucket of kfc for my father and my cousin. We watched District 9 until 12 midnight. We had a great time. I also had a nice christmas eve.

Everything went fine before my 2009 ended.

My first week of January was full of surprises. Daren came from back from Egypt after 4 months. He celebrated his new year's eve with his family in the province but he did give us "christmas money" so I went out and splurged it for papa and myself. I even bought papa a bottle of extra virgin olive oil so I can cook him foods ala Giada de Laurentiis.

I was able to save some money to buy Renz, Jiro and Jackie their most awaited christmas present. I bought them psp3001 which cost a lot from my own savings but it was worth it. My uncle came home and treated us for dinner in MOA Gerry's Grill around the 2nd week of January.

Aside from those happenings, I had a great college premed reunion with my batch in DLSU-D at Lucille's place in Bel-Air 1. It was fun. I even made some serious resolutions for this year. Everything was the way I wanted to happen except for one thing...

My Favorite Noodles...

One of my closest friends for 11 years died last January 18, 2010. She was battling cancer for almost 2 years. I made a blog about her a long time ago here. Noodles as I used to call her was one of my truest friends. She was more than a bestfriend. She was a sister, a twin and soulmate. We've been friends since premed years and after some major career changes plus a dozen of new friends from other places, we still managed to stay close.

I wasn't always there for her during her trying times but I wish I was. I always wanted to visit her during her chemo session but she wasn't keen about that idea. I always asked her to join me in my trips but she was always worried about her condition being a hindrance and all.

I always believed that she will get better. She was a fighter plus having her hubby and thea by her side would certainly make her fight for her life. I never considered the possibility of losing her someday. Never in my life did I think of her giving up from her battle. I didn't treat her differently after knowing she was sick. I wanted her to be just like the Noodles I once knew. The bubbly, feisty and sweet noodles that everyone loved.

She once told me that she wanted to have the "Sex and the City" friendship routine. You know...the Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha's breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner dates. She wanted all her closest friends to meet up once a week for a good chismisan moments even if we're all in our 30s or 40s. She wanted our kids to be friends as well too.

The most memorable thing she said to me was when she tried to explain why she didn't want me to be Thea's godmother. She said "akin ka lang eh, dapat attention mo nasa akin lang. Pagbinigay kita kay Thea baka di na ako unahin mo." She was that protected of our friendship. We had our moments when we lost contact with each other after I transferred from another school but we always managed to make up for the lost time.

We're not best of friends but we've been through a lot of good and bad moments. She told me things that she never mentioned to anyone else. She cried and opened up to me a couple times about some problems she went through. I never judged her in every decisions she made and vice versa. She once asked me after she told me some not-so-good-things she did in the past kung nagbago daw ba tingin ko sa kanya as a friend. I always assured her na hindi. She's my friend even if there were things na against ako. I will always be her friend and I know she will always be my friend as well - no matter kung anong mali ang gawin ko.

That was how we were in the span of 11 years.

When I found out that she died, I didn't want to believe it. I just came back from a great nightout and It was a news that I didn't expect to happen at all. I was dumbfounded. I didn't cry that night but I wasn't able to sleep. I messaged some old friends and texted my father about it. My papa considers Noodles as his own daughter as well. She was the only friend that my father trusts pagdating sa pagpapaalam, nightouts and sleepovers. He felt bad when I texted him that night. He kept telling me that I should visit her sa wake niya until sa funeral and I did.

When I first saw her in La Bien funeral homes, I was thankful that nobody was there aside from her hubby, her brother and her mom or else a lot of people would probably get curious kung sino yung umiyak na hindi naman relative. Seeing her in a coffin sleeping peacefully was heartbreaking. I didn't want to believe that she was gone. I cried because I couldn't accept it and hindi rin maprocess ng brain ko na wala na siya. She was too young to die. Too young to leave her daughter, her hubby and family. Pinaresearch niya pa ako ng mga beach resorts in South Luzon because she wanted to leave daw for a while and relax. I gave her 4 destinations na she said she would try to check. She wanted to stay in Tagaytay pa for a couple of days daw to unwind and I asked my Tita's friend who has a house in Tagaytay if that was possible. Tita Evy said it was okay for us to stay in her house noon. She wanted those things and I feel like she was robbed sa time para magawa lahat yon.

I even brought her the books of Bob Ong. She asked me before if I was a fan of him and I said yes. She wanted to read it daw during her chemo sessions or pagwalang magawa so I promised her na I would collect Bob Ong's good books. I did that last November 2009. I texted her and told her na nasa house na ng tita ko and she promised to get it but wasn't able to. I brought those books in her wake. I felt bad because it was too late.

Everything was too late...and that what made me cry.

Eventhough I know now na she is in God's hands already. I know there she's finally at peace and happy. A part of me would always wish na she is still here with us. It's not easy to lose someone especially someone like her. She is the perfect definition of a perfect friend. I'm definitely sure that as a sister, wife, mom, daughter, aunt, cousin, niece, sister-in-law, daughter-in-law and goddaughter through and through perfect pa rin siya makisama.

I will terribly miss her friendship.

But she will always be remembered and I will always love her.

Rest in Peace Maggie Magno-Padolina (1980-2010)

29 and Beyond... LOL.

2009-12-05T12:17:00.001+08:00

I celebrated my birthday last November 20 with loved ones. No party just a good day/nightout with my family and friends. I decided to spend it with Edward Cullen and the rest of the New Moon fanatics LOL.

My birthday started out around 11am in French Baker. Dessa and I had our brunch before watching the movie. Around noon, we were inside the movie house with the rest of the moviegoers. The movie lasted a good 2 hours or less. We then had our late lunch at Shakeys. We talked about old friends, Edward, Jacob and Eclipse LOL. I'm a fan of the Twilight Saga...not the movie but the books. I read it way before the movie buzz circulated around the world. I love the fact that they made a movie adaptation of it though.

By 4pm, Dessa left me at the mall and I met up with Tita G and my cousins. They wanted to watch New Moon so we or should I say... I watched it again for the 2nd time that day. We then had our dinner in Mcdonalds before I went home. Papa prepared a nice birthday dinner for me. We talked for a while and had a great time as well.

My birthday this year was way better than the ones I had a year ago when my father forgot about it. It was a simple day but the things I did with my loved ones are something that I would always cherish for the rest of my life. I am still thankful for the blessings I received and will receive every single day. I also want to thank Jon for his present. He didn't have to give me anything but he actually spent a lot just for me. THANK YOU.

As for the NEW MOON review... Hmm...It's okay. Like what I've said I'm a Twilight Saga Book fanatic. I like the movie but I love the books better. The effects were way better in New Moon but there were some snooze moments for me in this film. New Moon is my least favorite out of the Twilight Saga. I'm not a Jacob Black fan kasi and talagang I didn't enjoy the part sa book about him and Bella. It was a snooze, blackout moment for me pero I think the actors did justice sa mga characters nila. I think Taylor Lautner is hot and did a pretty good job. It just so happen na New Moon is my least favorite kasi kaya I feel like I didn't enjoy most of the scenes.

But I can't wait to watch ECLIPSE next year. I heard na it will be shown around June or July 2010 which is a good thing because I don't need to wait for my next birthday again just to see the movie adaptation of this Saga. I think this one would be exciting. Eclipse is my favorite out of all the Twilight Saga. Mas action packed and more vampires. Hopefully, maging maganda yung movie.

Also, I've been hooked to So You Think You Can Dance Season 4. I know it's already a re-run of the past seasons ng SYTYCD pero I love Mark Kanemura, Joshua Allen, Katee Shean and Courtney Galiano. I love their dance routines. I'm also waiting for the season finale of The Amazing Race 15. I'm a Meghan-Cheyne fan. Too bad the Globetrotters are gone na. I would love to see them sa final 3. In this season, either Meghan-Cheyne or Brian-Ericka sana manalo. I don't like the brothers. They play dirty and I'm not sure if it's Dan or Sam pero nakakairritate yung pagiging yeller/nagger nung isang brother.

Anyway, I am excited about my DLSU Human Bio reunion at Lucille's place in Laguna. I can't wait to see my college friends again. I'm sure to go but I'm hoping na wala ng problems na mangyari. I'm a little worried about papa kasi. He's been having stomach problems lately. I told him to take some laboratory test para malaman yung condition niya. I am hoping na this is just a minor thing. I don't want him to get sick or to have some health problems. Although I know it's inevitable lalo na pagtumatanda but I am still hoping na he'll be okay.

That's just about it... November is my month so yon lang nangyari sa life ko now. 29 and Beyond... There's no way of denying it na talaga. I'm getting old and I'll have to get use to it na.

BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MAMA JEAN (RIP - 16), TATAY PETER (26), MOMMY (25), TITA ROSE (15) and RAINE (27)

Rainy Days and Halloween

2009-11-05T12:22:00.001+08:00

My father and I went to Manila Memorial Park last October 30 around 3 am. We were the first one there. The security personnel told us to wait for 5 am before we can enter. Every year, we always visit our dead relatives early to avoid traffic and crowd of people. However, this year we decided to visit mama and tatay early due to the bad weather we've been experiencing lately in the country. May mga minor damages din pala ang Manila Memorial Park from Typhoon Ondoy. When we arrived there, the management were trying to fix everything. It was my first time to visit MMP na parang walang tao talaga in broad daylight. Usually, cars come in and out sa place and as early as October 30 may mga families na in their Mausoleum or tents. This time wala talaga.... We were the only ones na may picnic setting sa place LOL. Most people just brought flowers and candles then leave agad after an hour. I guess most of them were scared of the incoming typhoon that time.

Anyway, I prepared foods such as tacos, hash browns, cheese cake, bacon and tuna for our trip to the cemetery. My father even brought red wine for the 2 of us. We had an okay time. I slept in the car for a few hours and we had a good conversation until dusk. We were supposed to stay there until dawn of October 31s but I received a message from Jon about the weather forecast and decided to leave early.

Papa and I left the cemetery around 6 pm and by dawn strong winds hit Luzon. Typhoon Santi almost scared the hell out of me. We heard roofs, garage gates and other metal stuff being dragged in our street. Good thing typhoon Santi, in terms of rain, was not as strong as typhoon ondoy. By noon, everything seemed okay and back to normal. The weather went from windy to sunny. Parang di nagkaron ng typhoon but the weather is still cold.

That same day was also the 8th birthday of my cousin Jiro. I wasn't able to attend his birthday but i gave him money as a gift. I heard he bought a lot of toys and food. It was also their school's halloween party and bingo night. I heard a lot of funny stories about the halloween party since it was about someone I had a run-in early this year. Honestly, Karma is the only BITCH is really like lol. I also treated papa on his birthday at Reyes Barbecue and gave him money din to buy something that he likes. I also took care of the kitchen duties last week at his place. I cooked him pasta penne alfredo, beef-potato patty, chicken tinola, pork in pineapple sauce and chicken in tomato cream sauce for the whole week. I also watched a lot of scary movies for the past few days which was what I was looking forward every last week of October.

Aside from that, I opened to my father my plans of studying/working abroad. I tried a couple of colleges and universities. English Bay offered a good academic/work opportunities but as of the moment we still couldn't decide on it. Hindi naman kasi cheap ang expenses don. It would take a lot of planning and thinking to make it happen. As of now... I'll just go with the flow and embrace every opportunities that would come my way. I'm keeping my option open.

I have so much plans for this year and I am hoping to make some of it happen before the year ends. I rarely blog due to the fact that my thinky died last July. I still have to find a way to replace it or wait until someone would help me replace my thinky. In the meantime, I'm just updating myself through my phone or in desktop.

I also helped papa in arranging his SSS Retirement Benefits. Yep, he's 60+. He wants to use his retirement funds na. I am helping him process it. We also went to Bacoor Municipal just to check for his voter's ID. Sobrang crowded don last Tuesday. Aside from those things, nagkaron din kami ng disagreement about a certain issue. My father wants to buy a gun pero papalicense niya even yung pagcarry non everywhere. He asked Hanna, Dona and Tita Rose for that as a gift. I'm not really into the gun thing not to mention he'll pay 100k+ for everything. He wants to have it by January. I'm still trying to convince him not to buy that thing talaga. It's evil for me eh and sayang yung money. Hayy naku... boys and their toys talaga.

I'm also getting ready for my New Moon Movie Date with a couple of people. My schedule is totally booked for that week. I can't wait to watch a new movie again. I need to unwind a little after all the catastrophic (lol) financial backdrop a couple of months. Oh and yeah, Thank God Renz passed all his 1st semester subjects. It was something we're all hoping for because it wasn't easy for him to get into a good school this year. No pressures though...been there, done that. I don't want him to feel like he needs to do well every time. All work and no play makes "jack" a dull boy.

Anyway, BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO Uncle T, Uncle E, Papa and Jiro and Happy Burpday in advance to Matthew (RIP), Mama Jean, Tita Rose, Boyband Shane, Tatay, Mommy, Raine and MYSELF.

++ Been watching Amazing Race 15 and I'm hooked to Meghan-Cheyne Team even the Globetrotters.

THE SCORPIO....

2009-10-15T13:08:00.000+08:00

Scorpio Astrology October 23 - November 21

Scorpio Strength Keywords:

- Loyal
- Passionate
- Resourceful
- Observant
- Dynamic

Scorpio Weakness Keywords:

- Jealous
- Obsessive
- Suspicious
- Manipulative
- Unyielding

Scorpio and Independence:

Scorpios are fiercely independent. They are able to accomplish anything they put their mind to and they won't give up. They are perfectly suited to being on their own. They are not social butterflies like some other zodiac signs and some actually prefer to live on their own that way there is never any issue of who controls what at home, they like to be in control.

Scorpio and Friendship:

Relationships with Scorpio are always complicated, just like the person, their relationships are a series of extremes, they can even be downright moody for no apparent reason. Scorpios are known for their possessiveness and jealousy but on the other hand, they are extremely loyal. Scorpios have an excellent memory and combined with an inability to let things go, they can hold a grudge against someone who did them harm forever, in fact a Scorpio rarely if never forgives and forgets. They will even go as far as get vengeance on the person. On the other hand, they will always remember a kind gesture forever and repay it. Any kind selfless gesture done to a Scorpio will gain trust and respect which is extremely important to them in any relationship, either romantic or not. The best advice is to be honest with a Scorpio friend and in return, you will gain an amazing friend you will never forget and who will be loyal to you and never make false promises. Their truthful and shocking sense of humor if different than that of any other zodiac sign and the Scorpio makes an amazing, powerful interesting friend that can be trusted.

Scorpio and Business:

Scorpios make excellent doctors, surgeons, scientists and leaders, they are perfectly suited to any form of business that makes a difference in the world, greatly impacts people and society and a most importantly, Scorpio has to be in a power position, this is why these careers are suited to the Scorpio, they all demand one person in supreme control giving orders and leading a unit of people/practices. In business, Scorpios tend to easily gather wealth, they make very wise business decisions and they are very conservative about spending their money. Scorpios are known for making money and hiding it, they will not announce it due to to fear that others will take the same route and becoming a possible competitor, or worse try to use the Scorpio to their advantage to use them for their money.

Scorpio and Temperament:

Scorpios are extremely ambitious, persistent and determined which is shown through a power hungry, controlling attitude. Not in a stubborn sense however, because a Scorpio will work for what they want and control will justified reasons. This is obvious to any onlooker. A Scorpio never gives up, they are so determined to reach their goal. The key to this success is their flexibility. They are able to re-survey a situation and take a different approach if necessary. This makes them very adaptable and versatile. Scorpios are fierce competitors, combined with their powers of observation and their excellent memory, they will recall facts and when necessary, bring them to the table at the time of need. They will win justly, with proper facts and arguments to support their thoughts and opinions. Scorpios are excellent at restoring order to a chaotic situation and they are just as capable of manipulating for their own greed and benefit. The un-evolved Scorpio is a very dangerous person because they use their powers to benefit only them and step on other people in order to satisfy their own greed.

Scorpio Deep Inside:

Scorpio is the most misunderstood of all astrology signs. They are all about intensity and contradictions. They like to be aware of a situation and always know what's going on, figuring this out with their probing mind, on the other hand, they are interested in the occult, the paranormal, conspiracy theories and other types of similar unknown mysteries. They are very capable of hiding their true feelings and motivations, they often have ulterior motives or a hidden agenda.
Scorpios are all about control, they need to be in control at all times. To be out of control is very threatening, even dangerous to the Scorpio's psyche, when they control, they feel safe.
Scorpios are very emotional, their emotions are intensified, both good emotions and bad. Negative emotions of jealousy and resentment are hallmarks of this turbulent astrology sign. On the other side, Scorpios are well known for their forceful and powerful drive to succeed and their amazing dedication. Scorpios are constantly trying to understand their emotions through finding a deeper purpose in life.
Scorpios are very intuitive, but not as in a psychic sense, more as intuitive into the human mind, they have a great understanding of the mystery and the power of the human mind.
Scorpios have a fear of failure which they keep hidden extremely well, should their confrontation not be successful, or their career fail, they will simply use their adaptive skill to quickly move and and leave the bad experience behind. Do not ever expect them to fess up or share their tale with anyone however because this shows signs of weakness and Scorpio always wins, they are always the self-proclaimed best! One of the reasons they seem like they always accomplish their goals is because they set tangible short-term goals that they know they can accomplish, they know what they are capable of and this is what they go for.
Scorpios are very weary about trusting anyone, a person needs to gain their trust and this gets built up over time and once all the 'trust tests' have been passed, Scorpio loves deeply and intensely. Underneath the cool exterior, energies and emotions are constantly flowing but the Scorpio deals with this be channeling this into useful activities, hobbies, relationships or a career. This is never apparent to the outside observer but knowing this fact explains why Scorpios are so passionate about whatever it is that they are undertaking. Scorpios have powerful instincts and they trust their own gut feeling which is another reason why a Scorpio seldom fails.
The ongoing lesson in life for those born under the Scorpio zodiac signs, is to channel their powerful energy into positive goals and not succumbing to the darker forces in life such as manipulation and greed, they will then have great success in their life and have a clean, happy conscience and a circle of friends they can trust and hold dear to them.

Scorpio in a Nutshell:

Scorpio is the astrology sign of extremes and intensity. Scorpios are very deep, intense people, there is always more then meets the eye. They present a cool, detached and unemotional air to the world yet lying underneath is tremendous power, extreme strength, intense passion and a strong will and a persistent drive. Scorpios have a very penetrative mind, do not be surprised if they ask questions, they are trying to delve deeper and figure things out and survey the situation. They always want to know why, where and any other possible detail they can possibly know. Scorpio's are very weary of the games that other people try to play and they are very aware of it. Scorpios tend to dominate and control anyone that lets them, or anyone that they find weak. The person that a Scorpio respects and holds close to them is treated with amazing kindness, loyalty and generosity. On the outside, a Scorpio has great secretiveness and mystery. This magnetically draws people to them. They are known to be controlling and too ambitious but only because they need control for this makes them feel safe.

Just feel the need to share this since I'm a true-blue scorpio LOL.

Waterworld Pinas Due To Typhoon Ondoy

2009-10-01T12:55:00.000+08:00

It took me a month to update my blog due to the fact that my "thinky" passed away a couple of months back. My tech resources ran out when Daren and Don left the country LOL. I had to endure the noisy and crowded netopia to check my emails and update my blogs/networking sites. Honestly, it sucks big time. I missed having my laptop with me everywhere I go. I am hoping though that by the end of this year or possibly this month I will be able to have a new one na.

Before I give you the lowdown of my September 2009, Let me just say this:

"MY HEART GOES OUT TO ALL THE VICTIMS OF TYPHOON ONDOY LAST SEPTEMBER 26, 2009."

Now To Start-off, early last month I had to stay at home and take care of everything since my father had to visit Tita Rose in Iloilo. I took care of the bills and the groceries every week. It was something that I'm used to for the past months since papa has been back and forth in Iloilo since July. My cousin and her husband stayed at my place as well.

Last September 16, Tita Beth celebrated her birthday at Glorietta 4. Tita G, Jiro and I joined them in Makati. We met at Starbucks and ended up watching "In My Life" which I found funny and heartwarming at the same time. It was a good movie for the whole family. Everyone can learn something from it or they can somehow relate to one of the characters in the movie. I give it a 2 thumbs up. Good acting to the main cast.

After that, We went to North Park Restaurant and had our dinner. It was a nice family day/night out which we rarely do since everybody's busy with their own lives and career. I got home tired but happy.

On a much darker note, 3 of our dogs died. Dobie-the-house-elf, Mr.White and Mr.Black died a week apart. No one can explain why they died. Clyde, a cousin of mine who is the one assigned to feed the dogs couldn't give us any reason why it happened. He just keep telling us that they were strong and energetic the day before they died. Honestly, I think he made a mistake in feeding or cooking the foods. (YEAH, our dogs have their own food - no leftovers for them. Papa likes to cook lean ground pork/beef for the dogs - sobrang expensive to feed them and aside from the usual dog foods pa yon). He feeds them like they're human beings not animals LOL. Everything is well cooked and the food is tasty. Imagine sa house namin - there are like 2-4 people lang pero our rice pagniluto can feed 10-15 people LOL because of our dogs. He buys lean ground pork/beef for them every week. It cost a lot pero he doesn't mind kasi he is a dog-lover and so do I. Unfortunately, 3 of them died this September. I feel bad because Dobie was my father's favorite and the only female dog.

A week before Typhoon Ondoy, my cousins and I planned to visit Candy Fair in Meralco Avenue. Thank God we weren't able to go. I decided to convince my cousins not to go because of monetary constraints. The Candy Fair Event was scheduled the same day Typhoon Ondoy hits Metro Manila. I was thankful because if we decided to push through the plan of attending the event, we could have been stranded somewhere in Pasig. We would have been one of the "missing family members" that day.

A month worth of rain in less than 24 hours was something I never imagined to happen. I was watching the news all day and it was heartbreaking to see what was happening in Metro Manila. I have so many reasons to thank for and that same day I realized all of it. I am thankful that no one in my family members were stranded, missing or flooded that day. Typhoon Ondoy hit Metro Manila the hardest but most of my friends and family members were okay. However, a few friends lost a lot from this disaster. I have a friend in Provident Marikina who I lost contact that day and Jon's family house in Cainta was also flooded. Good thing I heard from them the next day. Both of them including their family members are all safe. They were able to transfer somewhere before the flood went up to their roof.

It was devastating to watch the news lately. Most of them are all about the aftermath of typhoon Ondoy. Metro Manila became WATERWORLD last Saturday. I was fervently hoping for the rain to stop to avoid more damages and more victims. The typhoon was like God's wrath. It was scary talaga. I kept on listening to Jam Radio Station since they offered information regarding the typhoon instead of playing music. I heard a lot of callers announcing their worries and asking others to help them find their family members. Everybody was in deep contrition that night.

A lot of people from the government and media keep telling that last Saturday was not the time to blame others for this disaster. I think they couldn't really stop people from laying the blame to some politicians in the country. It was inevitable just like the typhoon that cause major devastation to the country. We weren't prepared for it but we should have been because typhoons in this country is as common as the traffic along Metro Manila. Last Saturday, the government and their funds weren't ready for it. In some way, lahat tayo may mali from the LGU to the people. I hope this tragedy will serve as a lesson for all of us. Natural disasters are normal talaga. No one can stop it but people can do something to minimize the effects of it in their lives.

I wasn't affected by the flood but I learned a lot and It's nice to see people helping each other regardless of their status in society. Well, I know not all naman helped wholeheartedly. Some kasi I think are using this tragedy as an opportunity for the coming election. But I am proud to those people who worked their ass off in helping others kahit na delikado pa ang life nila in the process of helping others.

Recovery from this tragedy won't be easy but it is possible one step/day at a time. Many lost a lot of material possessions and some even lost many loved ones but everything will soon be okay. God has his reasons for everything that we went through. Hopefully, we should take this shocking experience as a lesson to learn and become more united as one.

I also heard that Typhoon Pepeng is a super typhoon and will hit the country anytime this week. Let us hope PAGASA is wrong about this weather forecast.

BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO JONJON (5), DAREN (13), TITA BETH (16), JAN (19), SIM (26) and HANA (30)

LET ME SHARE SOMETHING REGARDING THE TRAGEDY...

God knows what will happen tomorrow, next week, next year, the next decade. He knows what will happen in the world. More importantly, He knows what will occur in your life and can be there for you, if you've chosen to include Him in your life. He tells us that He can be "our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble." But we must make a sincere effort to seek Him. That doesn't mean that those who know God will escape difficult times. They won't.

Reality tells us that we will experience problems in life. However, if we go through them while knowing God, we can react to them with a different perspective and with a strength that is not our own. No problem has the capacity to be insurmountable to God. He is bigger than all the problems that can hit us, and we are not left alone to deal with them.

Naturally when tragedy like this strikes, we cry from the depths of our souls..."But God, how could You let something of this magnitude happen?"

We have to keep in mind....

God has created humanity with the ability to choose. This means that we are not forced into a relationship with Him. He allows us to reject Him and to commit other evil acts as well. He could force us to be loving. He could force us to be good. But then what kind of relationship would we have with Him? It would not be a relationship at all, but a forced, absolutely controlled obedience. Instead He gave us the human dignity of free will.

God came to earth to rescue us. "For God so loved the world, that he sent his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him."

God knows the pain and suffering we encounter in this world. Jesus left the safety and security of His home, and entered the hard environment we live in. Jesus got tired, knew hunger and thirst, battled accusations from others and was ostracized by family and friends. But Jesus experienced far more than daily hardships. Jesus, the Son of God in human form, willingly took all of our sin on Himself and paid our penalty of death. "In this is love, that he laid down his life for us." He went through torture, dying a slow, humiliating death of suffocation on a cross, so that we could be forgiven.

He knows how hard it is... God gave us warning before, we just didn't listen and chose which path to take. God wants us to learn from our mistakes. He will never leave us nor forsake us. He brought this to test us and he will make us rise from it one step at a time.

All About HIM

2009-08-20T16:57:00.000+08:00

I got inspired to write something about my special someone when a very good friend of mine tied the knot last week. It was an expected thing to happen since they're really are in love with each other but the wedding was really a surprise. I'm happy for her and her hubby.

Anyway, one of the reasons why I want to share my story is because I think it's time for me to be more open about it. I'm the type of person who likes to keep things private. I don't like bragging about it or sharing my "nice moments" with family and friends unless I'm being asked. I have no idea why but that's how I do things in my life.

I met him since I was 18 years old. We started from being an acquaintance to good friends and now we're best of friends. I consider him as my other half since I met him - the male version of me. He didn't become my boyfriend for years. He became my best buddy in all my guy friends, my shock absorber, my spartan and troy and my gibraltar. His presence in my life is one of the reasons I'm most thankful for. I never really expected in a million years that we will become more than just friends. But it happened...

He became my special someone when I turned 21. We broke up a year after that because I was too caught up with my school situation and so was he. I got sick and he was still there for me as a friend. We didn't get back until I turned 24 but we've always maintained a special relationship.

I survived so many trials in my life because I have him around for comfort. He knows everything there is to know about me. He makes me laugh when I'm sad, makes me smile when I'm worried and makes me feel special when I'm alone. He never gives up and that what makes him really special to me. One of the few people I trust with just about everything. I am thankful for him everyday.

I used to remember way back in "yester years" the things we used to do. We're not exactly the typical couple. We're both very private and maybe that's why we clicked through the years. He is the oldest out of his 6 brothers. He's a deep thinker, very practical and very witty. One of the people I know who could challenge me all night in word games, poker, name that actors/actresses and name that movie trivia challenge. We both like to join the Amazing Race Asia someday and is very much addicted to tennis. We can talk about Wimbledon and French Open for days. When I'm busy with some things in my life, he updates me by texting me the latest match of the season. He's a "Federer" and I'm a "Nadal" fan. Although, he admits that Nadal is his "man-crush" lol. We talk about what's on the news and other world highlights. Our relationship is beyond the usual "bf-gf" thing. We matured throughout the years and became more patient with each other.

I used to remember the fights we had. He used to be hot-headed and so am I. When he got mad, I fought back. He's a firestarter and so do I. We clashed in those first few months together as a couple maybe that was the reason why things didn't work out. But inspite of that, we managed to stay friends. We became more aware of each other's moods. We adjusted to each other's temper and before we knew it - we're back to being a couple. I was dead scared to try it again because his friendship is way important to me but I'm glad I tried. Since we went back together, things became really different - better different. We're like this old couple who would talk about things in a calm manner, debate about some opposing opinions we have, argue about our differences but in the end - we don't end up breaking each other's heart. We listen to what each other has to say. He listens to me and try to compromise on some things in our relationship.

You don't just get that kind of relationship unless the two of you have been together through thick and thin. It's still a mystery to me why we are together for more than 11 years. He's a goodlooking guy and yet he settles for someone like me. I'm not bad looking more like ordinary and simple and he could have picked better looking girls but instead he chose me. I don't have the perfect skin, body type or attitude but he's been there for me throughout the years. He quietly helps me through tough times without my family's knowledge. He's been there for me...always.

I sometimes feel scared of losing him again just like before. The funny thing about it is that he knows what I'm feeling before I even realize it myself. He comforts me about our relationship and he never gets tired of re-assuring me about his love. I sometimes feel guilty because I don't get to spend more time with him than I should have. We've been in one of the most trying times of our relationship. Being an adult isn't easy. We couldn't focus on our own relationship as much as we wanted to. He's busy managing his family's businesses since he's the oldest and I'm busy helping my own family as well. But inspite of that, we manage to make things work. I celebrated his birthday playing poker and other board games. He treats me to a fun day out and fancy dinner in different posh restaurants that I won't usually choose on my special day. He bought me gifts that I never asked him to give me. He even helps me when I'm having financial difficulties and gives good advice on how to handle my own money. He gives and he never demands. He keeps telling me that he's working hard now not just for his family but for us. Maybe someday - we can think about us - that's how he says it. He wakes up 5am and works until 8pm or 10pm managing their businesses. He's hardworking so we don't get to spend time watching the latest flicks or dining out. We don't even celebrate our monthsaries/anniversaries just like any other couples out there. We just treat our time together as a special event. We have plans on going to Boracay or any other resorts but none of it is a full-proof plan since we don't have that much free time yet. It's a good thing he's not the "demanding" kind of person in a relationship. Overall, he's a great guy, not perfect but way better than those that I've known from friends and family. I, on the other hand, needs some more maturing. I'm the prissy one. I demand a lot and even tried to be unreasonable a couple of times. I'm working on it everyday because I want us to work.

Bottomline, I'm really happy to have him in my life. A friend of mine who got married this year is also lucky to have found her soulmate. It makes me feel good to realize that inspite of the "lackness" and "nothingness" in some areas of my life, God gave me something or someone that he thinks I deserve. I couldn't ask for more.

I'm have a lot of imperfections and problems in life but I guess I'm just really lucky to have someone like JON in my life. Really, really lucky...too darn lucky - in fact.

CONGRATULATIONS NOODLES and JUN.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN ADVANCE SHAUN and TITA GERLY

BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO JEFF.

11 years and counting...

Midstream Changes

2009-08-09T01:15:00.001+08:00

There will be some changes this month for myself. I don't think it's a drastic change but there will be some minor adjustments about my routines and some other stuff in my life.

First off, my sim number. This is kind of weird because there's really nothing wrong with the one I'm using now. I just have to keep my promise to someone that I would change my number for good. I'm sort of sad about it because I like the number that I'm using but since it's a request from someone I care about then it's not really a big deal anymore. I already bought a new sim pack last Thursday and anytime this coming week I might change my number for good. But before I do that, let me post here some of my favorite quotes from friends and family members that inspired me throughout the year.

"The most humbling statement we can say is 'I am nothing without God' and our most powerful statement is 'with God I can do anything' ... GodBless. - From Angie
A fact: You can always get the TRUST of a man but not his LOYALTY and you can always expect a woman's LOYALTY but not her TRUST. Gandang Morning! - From Angie
People always think that the most painful thing in the world is losing their love one but the truth is... the most painful in the world is losing yourself in the process of loving too much. Good Morning - From Michel
I really like this thought: "If it's not you it will never be you no matter how much I love you. But if you really are for me, then we will always be, no matter how I set you free - From Michel
Love is far different from commitment. Love is a gift which anyone can have. While commitment is a sacrifice for love that not everybody is capable of. It's just so sad that the word commitment is enclosed with duties which makes it heavy, which makes other people afraid. They may be ready for love but not for commitment. Come to think of it, Isn't love enough to keep a commitment? or... Isn't commitment enough to show you love? - From Angie
Best message I received so far: They love you but they are not your lover. They care for you but they are not your family. They are ready to share your pain but they are not in your blood relation. They are...FRIENDS! True friend scolds like a DAD, cares like a MOM, teases like a SISTER, irritates like a BROTHER and finally loves you more than a LOVER. Thanks for being a friend! - From Noodles
I want to love someone whose heart has been broken so she knows exactly how it feels and won't break mine. Goodnight! - From Eric
There will come a point in your life when you'll get tired of chasing everyone, trying to fix everything. It's not giving up. It's a realization that you don't need all those you go after, because what you need are those who stood by you even if you never needed them. Nyt! - From Hazel
It is amazing to realize that living in simplicity gives true contentment. We go as we come to this wold. In the end, nothing is ours to keep. So, let's share what we have...smiles, knowledge, hugs, good words, time and love. Love More. Hate Less. Ignore Critics. Love Life. Morning Po! - From Hazel
If we are really in love, we hardly find any reasons to justify our feelings. We are dumbfounded as realization begins to strike our minds. Love was never like, 'I prefer my woman to be like this' and 'I prefer my man to be like that' - Preferences can change. You would just find yourself caring for that person no matter who he/she is or what he/she was before. It's hard to explain but it's true, that when it comes to love... There are no boundaries. No Yardsticks. And no reasons to hear why we love that person - From Arnel
Appreciate life itself even if it is not perfect. Contentment is not fulfillment of what you wished for but appreciation of what you have. God Bless! - From Mariel
Dear God, The lady reading tihs is kind and strong and I'm proud of her. Please help her live life to the fullest and bless her to excel in her chosen field. Help her shine in the darkest places and let love flow in her path. Please protect her at all times, lift her up when she needs you most esp. in keeping her safe. God Bless! Now you're on the clock! In 9 mins. something will make you happy. Please share this prayer to 9 sisters you love... - From Zash
Every person in our life comes for a special reason...to touch or to make someone's life beautiful. That's what you are, that was what you did...and I'll always be thankful for that. I love you so much! - From Jon
Bob Ong vs Juan Tamad's view about LOVE: Bob Ong - ang pag ibig parang elevator. Kung puno na bakit mo pa ipagsisiksikan ang sarili mo gayong meron namang hagdan? Di mo lang Pinapansin. Juan Tamad - Bakit mo pa kinakailangan maghagdan gayong babalikan ka naman ng elevator? Kelangan mo lang maghintay. O di ba may sense naman si Juan Tamad? Tamad lang talaga... - From Michel
I hate people who breaks promises but I must hate myself more because everytime the promise was already broken, I still expect it to be done. I love you so much. - From Jon

These are the quotes I have in my phone. As soon as I change my number all these will be gone na rin.

One of the biggest changes I have this month was my online schedule. I used to be online 24/7 but since my "thinky" died out on me last July, I now spend at least 48 hours per week na lang online LOL. I missed my old routine but it's okay na rin na nagbago. I get to do some other stuff. I'm still a late sleeper though. I read books na lang most of the time or spend my nights talking to Jon. I missed plurking everyday lol - uhh.. no ata twitter na. I don't get to visit my Facebook and Friendster often and I don't get to blog na rin masyado. But once I have the opportunity to go online naman, I make sure na I visit and do the things I want to do. Lately kasi I've been borrowing Don's laptop or Daren's. Mine died after 5 years of being my confidante LOL. With 600+ pictures, 500+ music files, 40 bookmarks/rss feeds, 30+ ebooks, 20 folders and 2 family videos - nawala na si "thinky" - nagtirik na ako ng candles. I missed that laptop kasi everywhere I go palagi ko yon kasama.

Other changes for this month would be my hair style (lol) which I think is in need of a visit and pampering kay "Joy" pati na rin fingernails and toenails ko (lol). I really need to organize my schedule better to do more things for myself. I also want to save up kahit na mahirap ata gawin since my expenses are skyrocketing. I'm planning to buy my own laptop again or if not wait for my relatives to give me one (hmm...ahem! ahem!).

Also, I need to make some changes with my financial strategies. I really need to be more careful about how I should spend my money. I need to save up for myself and at the same time help my cousins din. I would really need a better financial plan to make things a little better for myself. Hopefully, I could do it without any more problems.

I also need to talk to my father about some certain issues with one of his sisters. I'm having some hangups kasi about it and I would really like to settle that issue before it's too late.

Overall, I think puro minor changes naman lahat but I would want it to happen. Midstream kasi yung changes...I already planned some things in my life lalo na pagdating sa financial stuff. It would be difficult to change things midstream but I think it's doable naman. I just have to think twice before making my final decision.

As of the moment, I'm stuck here sa house and I badly need some time away from all of the things that are happening here. We have some ... well minor or probably major problem regarding one of our family member. It's not much of a big deal but we're all worried. Hopefully, he'll come into senses and talk things through with everybody so things will go back to normal. I believe kasi na everything can be solve naman if you're willing to listen to each other. I'm crossing my fingers na everything will be okay soon.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO DOMINIQUE in New Jersey (uhh... I think it's dominique's bday but I'm not really sure)

Also, HAPPY BIRTHDAY in advance to SHAUN and TITA GERLY.

Belated Happy Birthday to JEFF.

Don't Worry...Be Happy...

2009-07-17T17:31:00.001+08:00

And Now...I want to stay young na lang again LOL.

Life must really hate me. I've been really busy lately. I'm trying to help my cousins from their school needs especially Renz now that he's in college already. My expenses are skyrocketing LOL. I can't hardly keep up.

I want to hangout and have time for myself but I couldn't because I have so much responsibilities. I can't just turn my back from all of it. It would be difficult later kasi. How I wish life was as simple as when I was still young. Now I know how hard it is to become an adult. When I was still in school, I always wanted to grow up fast. I wanted to do things without any restrictions from parents. I wanted to be independent and try new exciting things. I did all those naman but the other side of it - the ugly part - the responsibilities - that's a different story. I hate responsibilities but I also know that I have to do it and be able to handle it because that's what life is all about. I used to think I'm doing a pretty good job but there are times talaga na I feel downright disappointed at myself for not making the right decisions, not doing the right thing or not being able to handle my finances better.

Anyway, my "thinky" died out on me. After 5 long years with 20+ folders, 500 pictures from family and friends, 40+ bookmarks/rss feed that I don't remember anymore, maybe 30+ e-books, 2 videos and 600 music files - iniwan na niya ako. I'm so sad because it was one of my most prized possession. I always bring it with me wherever I go. Nakarating na yon from North to South. I rely on it most of the time because it keeps me updated and organized. I do everything there from planning, researching and blogging. It sucks!

Now, I'm using Don's laptop or Daren's laptop if they're not using it. I can't go online 24/7 na rin. I want to buy a new one and I know I can do that but with my expenses skyrocketing this month or in the coming months pa, I might not be able to afford it. I need to decide kasi which is more important - having my own thinky again or helping out my cousins.

I'll just think positive na lang for now. Hopefully someone in my family will buy me a new one LOL. I'm crossing my fingers - wishful thinking - im counting the stars and wishing every 11:11 lol.

We also have a visitor here sa house. My cousin and her hubby from my dad's side of the family are staying with us. They're okay. They're nice. I got the chance to get to know them since I'm not really that close to my father's side. Just a couple of days ago, she lost her 2nd child (well it was 5 weeks pa lang naman sa tummy niya). She's having problems kasi in getting pregnant because she's already 37. I am hoping na God will grant her and her husband a baby someday. She deserves it naman. She'll be a good mom.

I also found out that my aunt (again at my father's side), the one that I'm not fond of, is 7 months pregnant. It shouldn't be a big deal but she's the type of woman who thinks na DSWD ang tatay ko. She'll ask for money and the old paawa effect...

Good thing Tita Rose and the rest of the family have a back up plan. Papa is with her right now. Too far away for my aunt to reach. He'll be staying there for 2 months maybe...

BELATED HAPPY BURPDAY TO Clarence and KC... (sorry I didn't make it)

BELATED HAPPY BURPDAY TO TITA TET as well in New Jersey.

And CONDOLENCE to Daren's family. His dad died a couple of weeks ago. He's a family since he married Hana last year. Condolence buddy.

GET WELL SOON JON....

Movie Review: Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen

2009-06-27T04:31:00.003+08:00

Genre: Action & Adventure

I watched this movie last night with my cousins and Tita G. I invited them because a friend of mine texted me the other night and told me about it. We got in around 6:20pm and left the cinema around 9:00pm. The movie lasted for more than 2 hours. It was okay. I like it except for the fact na ilang beses ako paikot ikot sa chair ko LOL.

The effects were amazing. I think ito yung nagdala sa film. However, the story was somewhat too much of everything. In the first movie, I was able to identify every decepticons and autobots present. In this film, mejo hindi because they were too many and hindi na nakafocus sa introduction ng mga autobots and decepticons except kay "the fallen" LOL. I think this movie is a "guy film" - you know - lalo na masyado very obvious yung mga sexy moves ni Megan Fox in every scenes LOL. Unlike in the first film, iisa lang ang flow ng story and Megan was just being Micaela - the sexy, popular girl in school. In this movie kasi, hindi lang nakafocus sa isang story, you have to understand sino si THE FALLEN and yung history ng mga primes etc. - TOO MUCH OF EVERYTHING. The consolation nga lang is that hindi ka binitin ni Michael Bay for this installment. Usually kasi mga 2nd installment bitin ang story and you have to wait for the 3rd one. In this one, tinapos niya yung story ng "Revenge of the Fallen" so that's good. I don't have to wait for 2 more years para sa 3rd. I heard Michael Bay wants to take a year off after this movie. So that would make Transformers 3 to start shooting again around 2011 pa and probably due in theaters worldwide by 2012 (tagal!). Hopefully, sa 3rd installment another good story line and another blockbuster hit.

If I didn't read the wiki stuff about this movie before I watched it siguro mejo confused ako about the whole robot things. I've read kasi somewhere a few weeks ago about the tri-changer or something and some terms na hindi masyado na-emphasized sa story. If you're a fan, you would probably understand it agad but if you're not into the "transformers" then you might need to read a little about the plot of this film. Wiki has good infos regarding this movie including the new robots and other things you need to know about it. I just couldn't remember kung may spoilers na don sa site.

Anyway, I think the movie is good not my favorite but good to watch especially if you're into robots and special effects. From what I noticed, guys of all ages appreciated the movie more than the women na nandon last night. Well, there were few girls naman who enjoyed it. As long as you're familiar with the 1st movie, I think you can pretty much understand and enjoy the film.

About the actors naman - they're all pretty good but I think Bumble Bee and the Twins are the scene stealers sa movie. LOL.

Worth it ng money mo yung effects ng movie....and just for the record my Tita G enjoyed it. We even caught her clapping in excitement sa isang scene don LOL.

Busy, Busy June

2009-06-26T23:56:00.001+08:00

I've been really busy this month. I spent most of my time working my ass off to help those that I love. It's something that I love doing for them. Most would probably tell me that I'm too nice or too helpful, even at times neglecting my own needs which is true but I have no regrets. I want to help and it's important for me to make sure that they're okay. That's all that matters.

Since school started a couple of weeks ago, I've tried to provide some of the things that my cousins need. In order to make ends meet, I've asked Tita to transfer her kids from another private school and provided for their uniforms and school supplies. Although I feel bad that Gilbert wasn't able to study in his chosen school, I somewhat feel relieved that he's now enrolled in another university taking up computer studies. I'm currently helping him with his school needs like books and uniforms. I'm also trying to save for his per term tuition fee. It has been one hell of a rollercoaster ride this month but I'm still thankful that we were able to surpassed this month without any hassles.

I'm pretty sure it would still be another hell of a month this July or maybe for the whole year but I'm sure that I can be able to help them one way or another. Hopefully, my usual routine would go back na. I really want to take some special classes this year. I just hope I can also do that while being busy with all the things I need to take care for the coming months.

Aside from being being busy with all those that I mentioned above, I've also been addicted watching Koreanovelas at night in my thinkpad. It has become a hobby of mine na LOL. I've also watched and bought tons of movies. It's my way of destressing myself.

* BELATED HAPPY BURPDAY TO YHAN, CLARENCE and TITA TET.

* Also, CONGRATULATIONS TO YHAN and ROB for having their 2nd son a couple of weeks ago in California.

* Oh yeah, I was really shocked this morning to find out that Michael Jackson died. Tsk! RIP.

The News About the Halili-Kho Sex Scandal Thing Is Way Overrated...

2009-05-24T18:43:00.001+08:00

Here's my two cents regarding the news about the sex scandal of Katrina Halili and Hayden Kho.

I'm a little irritated by this issue kasi wala ka ng maririnig now sa lahat ng channels but that. I have my own opinion about this issue and some may agree with me while others may not.

In fairness to Katrina Halili, I feel sad for her na kumalat yung video na yon without her knowledge. I feel bad for her family na madadamay whether they like it or not sa issue but I'm not sorry for her.

WHY?

I have my reasons for that. You see kasi...What goes around comes around. What can I say Karma is the only Bitch I like. Once tirahin ka non then you can never face other people again. She knew then na may girlfriend si Hayden Kho when he courted her. She knew na sa public pinakikilala na ang gf ni Hayden was Dr.Vicky Belo. She knew it and she ignored that fact. Another thing, hindi niya lang basta inignored yon. She went on to have sexual encounters with him without thinking the repercussions of her actions. Hindi nanaman siya minor that time.

In my own opinion kasi, it was okay lang before for her kasi hindi naman alam ng public yung nangyayari between them but since may video na lumabas she freaked out. I know she was violated sa part na pagkuha ng video without her permission but in that video hindi sya inabuse. She wanted it and nag-enjoy sya. She just didn't expect na aabot sa pagkalat ng video sa Quiapo and everywhere else yung video na yon.

It was okay for her to have sex with him nung hindi pa kumakalat yung video. It was okay na manloko ng tao and manakit ng ibang person na involved sa "illegal relationship" na yon at that time.

My point is in some ways malaki din ang fault ni Katrina Halili sa issue. Her mistakes and decisions in the past made her life complicated now. It's better not to dwell on it so much. Kaya naging overrated for me. Everybody's talking about it sa news and sa politics. Lahat ng senators may comment about it and resolutions. Sen.Bong Revilla got heated up about it which for me was really weird kasi sobrang galit eh. Parang personal na and it shouldn't be that way. It would be better if wag bigyan ng maling impression ang mga tao sa mga ginagawa nila. I'm from Cavite and a supporter of the Revilla family pero sobrang emotional kasi niya sa TV when it comes to this issue. It might make the people wonder why ganon. So siguro hinay hinay ng konti about reacting ng sobra about the issue. Sometimes kasi feeling namin malaki and personal na yung galit niya kay Hayden Kho to say those kind of things without hearing the story of the others involved in the scandal. Is it because dear friend niya si Katrinal Halili or something else? hmm...

If they really want to solve this kind of problem or video voyeurism (not sure if I spelled it correctly) di sana noon pa. There are thousands of young girls na navictimized ng ganitong klase ng problem. Wala silang tinulungan then maybe because hindi sikat yung person na involved. Katrina Halili happens to be a celebrity, a starlet pa nga lang yan but they made it a big deal. No offense to her but I got fed up kasi sa kakaiyak niya sa TV and saying na inabuse siya and binaboy sa video because that was not what I've seen sa scandal na yon. She was happy humping him away. She wasn't raped. Yung abuse na naranasan niya was very different from that. Ikakasira yon ng life niya but sana lang yung mga paawa na interviews magstop na. Just be straight to the people. I think mas makukuha niya yung sympathy ng lahat by saying na "She knows kung ano ang fault niya. She was sorry for that and ang gusto niya lang is justice sa pagkakalabas ng video niya na walang permission niya na kinuhaan siya."

I was appalled kasi sa mga binitawan niya na words in one of her interviews na "binaboy siya sa video and inabuso", i think it should have been "nababoy siya sa pagkakalabas ng video na dapat private lang or hindi dapat kinuhaan." She made it sound kasi na she didn't want the sexual stuff to happen as well.

As for Hayden Kho, I think he needs help psychologically. He's probably a sex-addict and yon ang thrill niya sa life. It was wrong for him to do that especially if hindi alam ng partner niya na kinukuhaan sila. It was disgusting in some ways and for that I pity Katrina kasi she was victimized by Hayden's sexual thrill.

As for the senators, I think its best to divert your attention to other important matters as well. If you want to help then try helping those teenage girls na may mga sex videos din sa Manila streets na mas underrated than this issue. Those na hindi kilala and those na walang pera. For me, mas sincere na pagtulong yon than making this issue with Halili-Kho one hell of a big deal. Help other young girls out there na mas kailangan yung tulong niyo because they were abused and raped sa mga internet videos. I've seen in XXX yung mga girls na nabikta before and none of them are okay now. Maraming unresolved cases non because some of them are not as famous as Katrina Halili. Mas nafeel ko yung pity don sa mga family and mga girls na they interviewed regarding their own scandals.

I feel sad for Vagni na nacaptured ng Abu Sayyaf kasi na-overshadow na ata ng scandal na 'to. There are plenty of kids na nagugutom and plenty of family na naghahanap ng justice. Yung kay Katrina Halili fraction lang ng mga issues na 'to. Let her lawyers take of everything since may money naman sya. It's not the end of her but a new beginning. I strongly believe na she can find ways to live her life good whether mag-artista pa sya or magbusiness. She has what she needs to make drastic changes sa life niya. Maparusahan yung dapat maparusahan. Ibalita yung dapat ibalita but sana wag na isensationalized ng media. No more media frenzy please. Maraming pang pwedeng news na dapat mapakinggan. Yon ang underrated.

I just hope and wish na matapos na yung news about them. Nakakapagod na kasi makinig about it. I love watching news. It keeps me updated but it won't help pagpuro ganon. It's been years since naging aware ang mga tao about the sex scandal internet thing na yan. Now lang sila gagawa ng way to stop that? Then I hope maging successful yung mga resolutions nila for video voyeurism.

It could happen to anyone. It could happen to any of my friends or family members which I pray and hope na wag sana but if that happens I would like it to be a family thing. To face it together without any media frenzy or i-sensationalize pa para pag-usapan and magkaron ng speculations. Mas nakakaawa kasi yung involve na person. People would forget it if walang masyadong exposure. Nagiging mas grabe lang pagnagiging overrated na ang pagdiscuss about it because people will try to search, watch and talk about it.

As for everyone, I hope this kind of issue will serve as a lesson to all of us especially to the young ones. Anybody can be a victim of this kind of scandal. Whether you like it or not, with permission or without - it can put you and your family to shame. Let you brain rule over your heart sometimes and let your heart be the guide of your every decisions. Don't just use 1. Make them work as a team para hindi nalalagay sa alanganin na situation palagi.

North Adventure

2009-05-12T16:16:00.001+08:00

Last April, mommy and daddy arrived from Glendale, California. They stayed here for almost a week. I visited them and stayed at BSA Tower Condominium. At that same week, a cousin of mine from the US asked me to buy her some stuff for her future baby. I bought all the things that she asked for and it was quite a long list.

Anyway, I was able to watched some of their home videos in the States and it was great. I miss them a lot and I'm hoping to see them soon. Also, a cousin of mine from Batangas celebrated her 25th birthday. I was supposed to attend her birthday bash but I suffered from minor migraines in those times. I got worried and went to visit my optometrist because I had the feeling that it had something to do with my eyes. I was right. I was diagnosed of astigmatism and that kinda sucks. For now, I'm still under observation and I'm still suffering from migraine attacks sporadically.

When mommy and daddy went back to the States, Tito R decided to visit Pangasinan this May. I decided to join them since I needed a vacation as well. I shelled out money for the foods and extra expenses in Pangasinan while Tito R, courtesy of his son in US, shelled out money for fare and lodging.

We arrived in Dagupan Pangasinan last April 29 around 1 am. We then went to Tito R's house in Lasip Grande. We also decided to walk around the town at 2 am to look for a bibingka store. We slept at around 3 am. The next day we attended Mommy Diling's birthday and celebrated the town fiesta or should I say the famous Bangus Festival in Pangasinan. There were concerts and other sports activities in the area.

Since I still suffered from minor migraines then, I decided to skip some of those activities. I stayed home and watched TV all day . Our next stop was the CSI Supermarket in Lucap. We bought some groceries for our week long stay with them and some extra foodies for our trip in the coming days.

Shrine of Our Lady of Manaoag - the first place we've been in Pangasinan. We attended the mass and the waited for the holy water blessings. We lighted candles and prayed for whatever we want to achieve this year. We also had our brunch near the church. After that, we went to Nepo Mall for a late lunch at KFC.

Todalingan Beach - I'm not sure if I spelled it correctly. We went there the day after our Manaoag visit. We went swimming from 10 am until 2pm. We thought we wouldn't be able to go since the weather wasn't really that good but by mid-day the weather turned great. We rented a cottage and their amenities to fully enjoy our day. It wasn't a well-known resort nor a high-class beach. It's just one of those places that most locals know about. We've experienced good surfing waves and some funny moments in that place.

Baguio City - After basking in the sun, we went to Baguio. It was less than 2 hour drive from where we were staying. Unfortunately, we've experienced some major setbacks on our way up. As we were busy taking pictures of the beautiful view in Kennon Road, we collided into another vehicle in one of those crazy zigzag roads. It was a shocking experience because we never expected anything like that to happen. The collision happened so fast that both vehicles were damaged severely. It was also raining that time due to typhoon emong. The good thing about that incident is no one was hurt badly. Everybody was alive except for the totaled vehicles and traffic that was building up along Kennon Road.

After settling the problems in Kennon Road, we reached Baguio City by 10 am. We went directly to SM Baguio since it was pouring hard that time. It was freezing cold. We took pictures everywhere, we even joined one of those aerobics exercises held inside the mall for fun and tried the Walk On Water activity. It was fun.

By lunch time, the rain finally stopped and we proceeded to Botanical Garden. We ate our lunch there and visited the art gallery inside. We met artists who made my cousins sketches for 15 minutes. We also met the 2nd tallest man in the world who was there at that time. We took pictures with him. Then, we went to Mines View Park were we bought some pasalubongs. After that, we visited places after places. From the Mansion to Wright Park Horse Ride section and then our last stop was the Baguio City Market and SkyWorld where we bought most of the souvenirs and pasalubongs. We even visited the wagwagan stores in Session Road. Renz bought a Vans shoes for 400 php. We raided every store we saw in that place. We reached Pangasinan again by 8pm that same day and we were dead tired. Thankfully, typhoon emong hit our side when we were already in Pangasinan. I think the news exaggerated a little bit about how strong the typhoon was. It was windy and raining hard but it wasn't as bad as the ones I've experiences last 2007 - Milenyo or something. A lot of the places in Pangasinan were flooded due to some problems in their dams and rivers.

We went home days after that. It's nice to be back but I've been itching to come back because I really enjoyed my north adventure. Traveling from different places and speaking with the locals in different language is kinda fun. I also miss their boneless bangus. It's to die for. I've also been addicted to Taipan Noodles since I went to there. I love sweet-spicy noodles.

Hopefully, I could come back again some time or maybe travel in to another place again with some friends or cousins. Traveling is one way to destress myself from all the turmoil and toxicity of life. Another good thing about that vacation is that I was able to talk to Sim again after not hearing anything from each other for nearly a month. It's good that everything's okay again in my life.

BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ZASH (20), SHARLENE (15) and KIM (17) and BELATED HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO EVERYONE.

My Late Mother's Day Message

2009-05-11T20:39:00.002+08:00

I never had a real mom, but
I've had a mom that's real
In all the things that mom should do,
And all the things moms feel.
I never had a mother, but
I've had a mother's love.
I've had the kisses and the hugs
That therapists speak of.
I guess I should be crazy with
The things that I've been through.
But I've had all a kid could need
Because I have had you.

This poem is dedicated to my Mama V (lola) for all the wonderful things that she have had given me throughout the years. She completed some of the missing part of my life as a child. Thank you.
I also want to dedicate this poem to my Tita G, Tita Beth, Mommy, Tita Tet, Tita Gerly, Ninang Kate and Tita Rose. Happy Mother's Day to all of you and thank you for everything.

----------------------------
As for my late mom - Mama Jean....

Mama please don't worry 'cause
I'm doing really well,
Even though I MISS YOU on
This Happy Mother's Day!
Wishing you were with me 'cause
In that case I could tell
You all the things that happened to me
While you were away.
I LOVE YOU even though you can't
be with me just for now.
And I know you Love Me, Too,
'Cause I'm your little girl.
And I'm sure that you will come
To me Someday, Somehow,
And I will see you look at me
And know that you have smiled.

---------
To all my friends - Happy Mother's Day to your mom or to you...

Manic March

2009-04-01T13:52:00.001+08:00

For the past 3 months of 2009, I think the month of MARCH would probably be one of my most "toxic" months of this year. Then again, I still have April till December to decide which would be the most chaotic month.

During the early week of March, I helped Tita G and her kids in their school activities. Jiro joined the Little Mr.ESA competition. He didn't win but he enjoyed the event. He told me that he would like to join again next year. In my own opinion, he should have won the crown but I won't question the decision of the judges because what matter is that my cousin enjoyed the whole experience. I'll try to upload the video of the pageant and his talent day some other time.

Also, I was busy last month doing research. I spent most of my 2nd week of March, filing for my Voter's ID and other personal documents. I planned to take some training courses with a friend but I might reschedule that one by June of this year. I was busy driving back and forth to Mayor Strike Revilla's office and Mayor Aguilar's office for some important documents. It was pretty tiring. I wanted to try something new about my career path and it was quite an experience to do all those things again.

My cousin Jackie celebrated her 15th birthday. The one gift that she wanted for me to give her was a pair of contact lens. I bought her a pair of chocolate coffee colored contact lens. She loved it. Tita G also celebrated her birthday and I bought her a cake that day. I also celebrated Jon's birthday and we had fun. He's always busy with their family business. We just decided to make it special by spending it at their place with his family. We played literati and it was fun. I kicked his ass.

Tito Robert also celebrated his birthday and I bought him pancit malabon. It was also his kids recognition day at ESA. I attended the event and took some photos as Renz received his awards for Best in Values and Best in Arts in his batch. Jiro was awarded Best in Filipino for Grade 1 students. I treated them at Red Ribbon and then I also attended Reema's graduation at CSOL. Her mom asked me to be their photographer that day. It was fun and I had a great time as well.

Just last week, Renz graduated high school. I watched as his high school life closes its chapter and a new one begins - his college life. He wants to study at Iacademy in Ayala, Makati. I think he wants it really bad. He wants to major in Animation and probably work in PIXAR someday LOL. Hopefully, It will come true.

That same night, Jiro accepted his award as 3rd honor for the Grade 1 students and Jackie accepted hers as the 3rd honor for the 2nd year HS. It was quite a memorable night not just because of the event but of some setbacks we've experienced with a certain person that night.

I don't really think she deserves a space her in my blog but what the hell - she deserves to be creamed anyway. Enough of her...

After graduation, I bought Renz his favorite foods - a bucket of KFC, pizza hut, belgian chocolate ice cream and a spicy bicol express from Gerry's Grill all TO GO. We decided to eat at their place. It was fun.

I also had an interesting text message from a friend of mine. Dessa texted me about an old friend asking for something that he wants me to give him. I didn't reply to her text not because I'm mad but because I'm already done with that past. I tried to help him 2 years ago but he excluded me from helping him. Since then I vowed to myself not to interfere with anything related to him and the person he was involved with. I used to help them a lot but I learned my lesson the hard way. I was the one who suffered the most because of trying to help/interfere with everything about them a long time ago. They were my friends but they didn't treat me like how I treated them. I'm done with it. I'm not friends with either of them anymore so I don't want to be a part of anything related to that again. End of story.

Hopefully, I can take some time off this summer. I badly need a vacation again but we'll see how things will go this month. I hope to experience a lot of life changing moments - GOOD life changing moments LOL.

BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ARCHIE (30 wooohooo!), INAH and NIKKA (sweet 16!), Tita Kate, NOODLES (29!!!), Tita G (48 I think?), JACKIE (15!), Tito R, NIKKI (23???) and JON (31! boohoooo! ur old na! lol)

HAPPY GRADUATION as well to RENZ and KIM!

Mrs.I-Need-A-Lot-Of-Attention

2009-03-30T01:29:00.001+08:00

My cousin graduated from High School last Saturday and it was an eventful day for the family. Everything turned out okay with some minor setbacks.

A certain Mrs.Lim or her maiden name pala is Ms.Baloja daw from Evergreen State Academy, approached my Tita G to set up a "so-called meeting" regarding some petty issues mainly rumors and hearsays around the campus. For weeks, my Tita G informed me about how some parents (I know who they are) in that school tried to create some hullabaloo of some sort. I listened to it every single day. Frankly, I got tired of listening to the same old bullshit that I keep on hearing regarding their school's issues.

It's none of my concern but then again Tita G is a part of my family. Therefore, anyone who tries to mess with her will have to deal with me also.

Last February 2009 during their HS Night, Tita G and the rest of the parents were asked to wait for their kids in the parents lounge. I was with her along with 5 others (i think...). Mrs.Lim arrived with her chihuahua (maid) 5 minutes later. They both entered the HS night venue inside Jade's Garden. The school staff told us that parents are not allowed in that place that was why we were at the parents lounge. Some parents reacted to what they saw. Some said "O...Bakit yon nakapasok? Akala ko ba hanggang dito lang?"

We waited for quite a while thinking na maybe lalabas sila agad. We automatically assumed na baka hinatid niya lang anak niya inside but we were wrong. They intended to stay there talaga. I was the first one to follow her. When I was there I said to the teachers inside Jade's Garden -- "Papasok na ako ha, andito sya eh..." (I pointed at her coz in my opinion, if someone decided to break the rules then gagawin ko din - fair trade).

As soon as I was busy taking snapshots at the said event, all the parents followed me. They gathered near the canteen area to get a glimpsed of their kids. Tita G said "Ma'm Cory, makikigaya na rin kami sa pumasok" and technically there was nothing wrong to what she said because they were just there following the first parent who entered Jade's Garden. As they were ogling their kids, I heard Mrs.Lim said to her chihuahua "andito na ang mga usi."

Technically, I don't think that remark was intended for everybody to hear kasi she was sort of whispering it to her chihuahua eh. What she didn't expect siguro was that I was too close sa kanilang dalawa. I heard it. I stared at her and then they both disappeared sa side. When they came back a minute later, I was totally shocked to hear her saying "Gaya-Gaya, Puto-Maya."

Damn! I never heard anyone using that kind of remark to someone since I was in grade 1. She was saying that from the back of the pack. Fortunately, I and another parent don sa group overheard her. We were both stupified - in a sense - na what the hell was that about???

We told what we heard and some parents including my Tita G got heated up. Tita G and some parents started making innuendos the whole night.

A few weeks later, this twat was telling some parents in school that she wanted to confront Tita G about some issues she heard daw. She keeps saying to those "other" parents (again - kilala ko sila but I won't mention their freakin' names kasi they don't matter na rin) na Tita G is a friend of hers, an old friend of my maternal side of the family. They were childhood friends daw and that she has no idea why ganon daw si Tita G sa kanya. The old paawa stuff.

My Tita G tells me everything about anything sa school including those people who keeps on backstabbing her.

FIRST AND FOREMOST, if friend ka ng family namin then those kind of petty stuff should have never happened in the first place.

SECOND, if you're not someone who craves a lot of attention for herself and for her daughter then YOU ought to know how to value friendships. She used to call Tita G's house para lang makipagtsismisan regarding the who's and who's not ng school.

THIRD, Tita G never created any kind of rumors sa school. Most of what she knows eh galing din sa school. We heard a lot of issues regarding that twat pero Tita G never created or started anything na related sa kanya. She's the one who keeps blabbing about nonsequential stuff sa school.

One parent from HS told Tita G na gusto daw siya confront ni Mrs.Lim. This parent wanted Tita G to talk to Mrs.Lim para daw settle yung issues which is funny because why would Tita G settle something na hindi big deal sa kanya. This parent said na PARA DAW KAY GOD magbati na sila -- THAT'S BULLSHIT! Why the hell na dapat isama ang name ni God sa ganyan because if you care sa gusto ni GOD in the first place dapat walang chismisan or doubts ka sa isang kaibigan. (DAMN! this parents should go back sa kanilang RELIGION classes ng grade school).

During the graduation night, we were happy that Gilbert graduated HS. We were tired and hungry by the time the ceremony ended. MIND YOU - I get crabby when I'm starving. We were waiting for my cousins na matapos sa mga photo sessions with friends when Mrs.Lim approached my Tita G.

TAKE NOTE: I have no idea why andon siya that night. Hindi graduating ang anak niya or anyone else na related sa kanya. They were just there. The teachers in ESA weren't fond of her presence kasi nga she's a VACUUM CLEANER na hinihigop ang lakas ng mga teachers sa ESA.

This was what she said to TITA G:

TWAT: Mrs.Saroca, Ging, pwede ka ba makausap

TITA G: Oi..

TWAT: Kilala mo ba ako???

TITA G: Eh ako kilala mo???

What kind of idiotic person would say na friends sila and sasabihin niya na KILALA MO BA AKO? Ano yon panakot effect. I raised my eyebrow when I heard that.

She wanted to set up a meeting daw regarding some issues and she wanted to know when and where daw. Ayaw niya now magconfront because she didn't want to destroy our night daw with Gilbert's graduation and all. DAMN! MOCHAFRAPPECHOCOLATTE WHIPPED CREAM ON TOP! LOL! If you didn't want to ruin our night then hindi ka na dapat nag-approached non. Kung professional ka talaga, you ought to know when is the BEST POSSIBLE TIME to hear this kind of crap. ALSO, kung INTELLIGENT kang tao you would know kung PETTY or not ang issue na nilalapit mo. Tita G was like - wala akong time and ano bang issues?

This was where I noticed a lot of loopholes sa statements niya...meaning maraming hindi tumatama sa katotohanan.

I got heated up and told her na wala kaming time kasi vacation namin. We kept on asking her ano ang issues and she kept on saying na NEXT TIME NA LANG but she heard a lot of issues daw na sinabi ni Tita G or should I say kinalat ni Tita G sa kanya. SO, I said again (for like the 4th time) anong issues????

She couldn't pinpoint the exact issues basta puro marami lang daw. And then, she said according daw sa isang person, against daw si Tita G na anak niya nanalo na PROM QUEEN. Then it dawned me, it was about the HS night last February. We asked her sino nagsabi na si Tita G nagsabi non -- she couldn't name the person. I insisted na she should name the person and she mentioned or should I say name dropped a certain teacher in ESA. (funny, kasi hindi nakakausap ni Tita G yon about that... lol). We asked her to call the teacher and marami siyang reasons kesyo BUSY yon. FUCK! if you wanted to know the truth then hindi ka magdadalawang isip na tawagin yung teacher since we were still in the school.

FYI MRS.LIM: Hindi Against si Tita G sa anak mo as PROM QUEEN. MOST of the parents that night were asking why sa 3rd YEAR binigay ang award sana sa 4th year na lang since they're graduating na rin lang. YON LANG! Some parents had their bets kasi that night kung sino ang dapat maging prom queen just as you had. I'm sure bet mo anak mo right? So, yung ibang parents bet nila yung anak ng friend nila. SO WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH THAT? Opinion nila yon, if you can't accept that then ignore them. AS SIMPLE AS THAT!

She then said na according sa chihuahua niya, yung mga parents daw (meaning "us") ang unang nagparinig sa HS night sa kanilang 2. Again nagnamedropped sya ng person na wala don, her chihuahua. I didn't actually believed na hindi niya kasama yung chihuahua niya that time sa school kasi they're always together. She said hindi daw niya kasama eh and nag-iisa lang daw sya so dapat kami ni Tita esp ME hindi sumisigaw. WHAT'S WRONG WITH THAT??? I AM TELLING THE TRUTH SO WHY THE HELL WOULD I LOWER DOWN MY VOICE. I WANTED EVERYBODY TO HEAR WHAT I'M SAYING SO OTHERS CAN TELL SINO SA AMIN ANG SINUNGALING.

I got really pissed off kasi napakaredundant niya. If you're telling the truth then hindi dapat maraming segway. Straight to the point ang facts mo not puro HEARSAYS, NAMEDROPPING and sabi ni ganito and ganyan. Sinasayang niya oras namin kasi we were tired and hungry na that time. I was also heated up for another reason. She forgot na ako yung person na kasunod niya sa HS NIGHT. I was the one who overheard all the innuendos nila. THE FIRST ONE. I retold the story sa kanya and she was finding some ways na malusutan yon. She said "pumunta kami sa flagpole kay Ma'am Cory when the parents followed us." FREAKIN' SHIT! I WAS THERE! Before they disappeared I overheard her saying the "USI" word and when she came back yung "Gaya-Gaya, Puto-Maya" naman. LIAR pa sya because the person she was telling na pinuntahan niya sa flagpole was in the canteen that time. I saw that person doon so howcome andon yon sa flagpole. huh???

Oh and she also mentioned na mas gusto daw niya makipag usap sa ibang time pero may presence ng PARENTS and TEACHERS. I was flabbergasted. I was like HUH???? ETO NA YON! MAY PARENTS AND TEACHERS SA SCHOOL. When pa yung best possible time na yon? VACATION NA...that night was the best time to talk about it. (she still wanted us na wag sumigaw...)

Now tell me sino ang LIAR? Sino ang chismosa? Sino ang papansin? Sino ang gumagawa ng issue?

If I wanted to share here sa blog ko mga ginagawa niya sa school baka magulat ang buong ESA students. Ang daming issues sa kanya na naririnig namin but we never started it. Nakarating lang kay Tita G yon tulad ng sa ibang parents.

Obviously, she tried to avoid the conversation when I started shouting at her and telling her na sinungaling siya. She left us doon and went to a school staff para magtanong ng "YEARBOOK???" Duh! 3rd year pa lang anak niya, incoming 4th year - ang aga naman niya magtanong para sa yearbook. Ano yon escape goat? I wasn't going to backdown that night. If she didn't leave non, marami pang pwedeng nasabi and I won't regret it. I don't care if she said bastos ako or hyper ako magsalita because what I'm saying that night was THE TRUTH.

Hindi ako part ng school nila everyday but I know what I heard nung HS night. I know who started the innuendos. I have no reason para magcreate lang ng story just for the sake na makisali ako sa away. I know what I saw and I know what I heard. Hindi ako pinalaking sinungaling ng family ko. If she can flat out lie about some stuff na nangyari that night then sino sa amin ngayon ang nakakahiya. She's 40+ years old. I'm 28 years old. I don't care about the age differences. I don't care ko kung naging bastos ako sa kanya because kabastos-bastos naman kasi siya. I don't just give respect to everybody. Just like everyone else, you have to show me something worth respecting para respetuhin kita. I wouldn't be my father's daughter kung hindi ko nakuha ang kalahati ng temper niya. If my father and I can fight about what I think is right and wrong sa mga ginagawa niya, I can certainly be harsh to someone like you - someone I don't even know. IF YOU REALLY KNOW ME and my family as what you said sa ibang parents then dapat kilala mo ano ugali ng father ko and temperaments ng maternal side ko. We're quiet most of the time but don't ever start a fight with me or with anyone in my family if you don't want to get burned.

She approached my Tita G in an unprofessional way and if she insists na professional yon then backwards ang utak niya. She ought to know - kung family friend talaga siya ng family ko - once you mess with one of us - everybody else will retaliate.

Tita G is a family. If she gets involve in any issues sa school then I'm making it mine as well.

If you're miserable as a child and you need a lot of attention then that's okay. BE WHO YOU ARE pero wag ka mandamay ng tao. GET YOUR FACTS STRAIGHT (kung professional ka alam mo dapat yan).

Nakakahiya ka naman and I pity your daughter kasi nadadamay siya sa issues na ikaw rin ang may gawa. Everybody's been talking about YOU. Teachers and parents alike maraming may ayaw syo. Masyado ka daw papansin kaya lahat ginagawa mo. Even those na wala na sa ESA na teachers maraming sinasabi about you. DAPAT SILA ANG CONFRONT MO.

As for the other parents who tried to create some issues regarding my TITA, kilala ko kayo. It's a good thing kilala ko mga anak niyo and they're friends with my cousins. Kayo-kayo nagsisiraan - what kind of an idiotic person are you kung ganyan din ginagawa mo sa iba?

That night, nakalimutan na rin namin yung issue. We celebrated and talked the whole night. It was okay. Somehow, I feel good about it kasi I have no regrets sa mga sinabi ko sa person na yon. She needed to hear it para makalabog naman ang conscience niya.

As for those who know what happened that night or kilala yung person na tinutukoy ko dito -- then now you know what really happened kung nakarinig man kayo ng arguments sa labas ng canteen. IF BY ANY CHANCE, some poor sucker will let you read this and I can pretty much guess sino ang possible person yon since kilala ko mga naka-add sa akin LOL - THEN LEARN FROM UR OWN MISTAKE! AYUSIN MO MUNA MGA DAPAT MO AYUSIN SA PERSONAL MO NA BUHAY INCLUDING YOUR DAUGHTER BAGO MO PAKIALAMAN ANG BUHAY NG IBA. ALAMIN MO MUNA ANG IBIG SABIHIN NG FRIENDSHIP BAGO MO SABIHIN NA FRIEND MO ANG TITA G KO SAME GOES TO THOSE PARENTS NA FRIENDS DAW PERO NAGKAKALAT DIN NAMAN NG LAGIM SA SCHOOL.

May ayaw ka sa sinabi ko sa blog na 'to??? FEEL FREE TO COMMENT BITCH! (I call men bitches too you know)

** DARN IT! Now I have to make another blog for my cousins' graduation and my march highlights without you in it. LOL.

Party of Five

2009-03-01T00:57:00.000+08:00

Last February 26, 2009, My friends and I decided to celebrate Mariel's 23rd Birthday. A week before that, I had some problems to take care of and decided to skip the said celebration. Mariel and some friends of mine insisted that I should be there. For days, I held back my decision until I was pretty sure that I could make it. The funny thing about it was that I knew already - even before they insisted for me to join them - that I would be there to celebrate Mariel's post birthday bash. I already bought her a gift which was something that I never planned to do. I opted for scented candles from Trinoma but I was too lazy to travel in Quezon City. I bought her gift in SM Bacoor. I also bought Angie and Dessa a "lucky" bracelet in Bead Shop. It is said to open up their horizon. LOL.

On that day, I went to meet my friends in Star City for a fun night out. Randy arrived first and went to sit at the back parking lot. I arrived 30 minutes after him. We talked for an hour about some random stuff which we rarely did during our College Years. It was a short conversation but I was able to get to know him in that short amount of time. It was memorable and interesting in some ways.

Mariel and Angie arrived an hour after I arrived. We went inside Star City to fully enjoy our night while waiting for Dessa (who arrived 2 hours late). We took pictures everywhere. I didn't join them in most of their riding adventures because I was in no mood and in no condition to ride anything.

We also went to Snow World. There was nothing extravagant in that place except that it was really cold...freezing cold. They took turns in the icy slides while I waited and watched them. It was actually funny to see them sliding and screaming like crazy. Fun and memorable to watch.

When we got tired of all the riding adventures, the REAL NIGHTOUT began. The 5 of us went straight to Nakpil and looked for a bar to hangout with. We were supposed to go either at Cafe Adriatico or Cafe Havana but then Mariel saw BEDROCK and changed our mind that same moment. I really have no idea why we chose that place. It was like someone from up there begged for us to go there talaga. We're not even sure kung anong meron sa place na yon that night.

When we entered the bar, the place was cozy and not that spaceous. It was also a little dark inside. I surveyed the place once we got in and noticed that there were a lot of foreigners and their pinay love ladies inside but it wasn't one of those "cheap" bars with lots of noisy and uneducated people doing nasty stuff. BedRock is actually a pretty cool place. The people naman are decent. The first band performing played mostly oldies and mellow songs.

The rest of us ordered a huge platter of different kinds of finger foods - from fries, sausages, chicken wings - the works! Mariel and I ordered frozen margaritas to spiced up our mood. The others settled for non-alcoholic beverages. We talked, took pictures and even with loud music - we had a great time. Our waiter was so friendly pa. LOL.

However, when the 2nd band started performing onstage, things began to change. The moods of everybody on our table went from MELLOW to WILD and CRAZY lol.

The band's vocalist looks really hunky. We all thought his name was Jay but just last night I found out from a friend of mine that his name is actually BRADLEY. Wow! He has the rocker voice -- sort of like Chad Kroeger and he's sporting tattoos all over his arms and neck. I'm not into that kind of guy pero ma-ooverlooked mo yon sa kanya because of his voice. He's also very friendly to the audience.

We requested a couple of songs for him to sing. I gave a couple of bucks for the requests. He sang LIPS OF AN ANGEL for Mariel - the birthday girl and he even greeted her THRICE (as requested). SUPER KILIG naman kami!

Take note: He even noticed yung penmanship nung nagsulat ng request. Maganda daw... LOL. I wrote it but we let them think na yung isang friend namin nagsulat because she's already "hooked" to the vocalist.

Sobrang into "BRADLEY" mode si Dessa that she couldn't stop staring at him. She was actually blushing at one point kahit madilim it was pretty obvious. I decided to take the necessary step by asking our waiter to give Bradley my "secret message" LOL...

I asked him for another request pero this time I wrote in that tiny piece of tissue paper (how classy lol) na dedicated yung request na yon sa kanya by DESSA. Hahahaha....

That did it...By the time their female vocalists was crooning Rihanna's Disturbia, Brad went to our table and introduced himself. TAKE NOTE: Kami lang ang pinuntahan niya na table that night. He even mentioned "us" a couple of times. He kept saying about don sa "those at the back" please join us...(kami lang naman kasi maingay technically sa back). I guess naging motivation nila yon to jam because we were so into their music.

Brad went to our table to invite everyone to dance onstage. Dessa and Mariel were pretty wild that night after a couple of frozen margaritas, vodka cruisers and screwdrivers - and to think hindi naman masyado nakakalasing yon. They danced onstage! Dessa did the unthinkable -- she danced sexy and so did Mariel (KODAK MOMENT) LOL.

It was sooo fun. SOBRA. When their set was finished everything turned mellow again. We ordered another batch of finger foodies and drinks. By 3:30am, we were dead tired and worried about Randy who was already sleeping on an empty backrow table LOL. May duty pa kasi siya the following day. We decided to go home na para makapagrest sya. We didn't get to hear Brad sing again sa next set nila. We also found out na yon na ang last appearance niya in BedRock. Awww....(sad kami...).

By 5 am, Mariel, Angie, Dessa and I decided to hangout in a 24hr fastfood joint. We had our early bfast there and nonstop sharing of insight regarding the nightout and of course -- our favorite topic that night - Si Bradley LOL.

I got home by 6 am, took a shower, eat another bunch of bfast then finally took a rest by 8 am. I woke up with a hangover from last night party. It was that bad. I wasn't even drunk pa non but sobrang sakit ng ulo ko. I decided to sleep the entire day. When I woke up, I talked to Jeff and asked him about Brad's band. Jeff knows a lot of band since dating band member din sya in his younger days LOL. We talked and I shared everything kanila Dessa and Mariel. We've been sending comments in friendster back and forth about Bradley...Hehehe...If ever totoo man yung sinasabi na pagnakakagat mo lips mo meaning may nakakaisip syo, Bradley's lips siguro wala ng color LOL.

Dessa's a sure fan. I'm pretty sure about that. Tawag ko na nga sa kanya now is BRADESSA lol. I'm also happy that Mariel had a great time on her post birthday celebration. It was definitely a fun nightout. A party of five -- but most definitely - one of the most fun nightout I had in years. Haayy...GOOD TIMES. GOOD TIMES...

BELATED HAPPY 23rd BIRTHDAY MARIEL!

Funny Names (Just For Laughs)

2009-02-22T00:32:00.000+08:00

I was a little worried this week about some certain stuff. A friend of mine decided to email me an article that eventually made my day a little okay. It really made me laugh. So I'm sharing this here for those who are sad or bored. Maybe, just maybe - It can make you laugh as well. ENJOY!

Pinoys are by nature creative and has a great sense of humor...

1. Parlor in San Juan is named "Cut & Face".
2. Wholesaler of balut in Sto.Tomas, Batangas: "Starduck's".
3. Fast food eatery in Nueva Ecija: "Violybee"
4. Internet cafe opened among squatters named "Cafe Pindot".
5. In Manila , there's a laundry named, "Summa Cum Laundry".
6. Petshop in Ortigas: "Pussies and Bitches".
7. A pet shop in Kamuning: "Pakita Mo Pet Mo".
8. Bakery: "Bread Pit".
9. Bank in Alabang: "Alabank".
10. Restaurant in Pampanga named, "Mekeni Rogers".
11. Restaurant in Pasig : "Johnny's Fried Chicken: The 'Fried' of Marikina".
12. A boxing gym: "Blow Jab".
13. A tombstone maker in Antipolo: "Lito Lapida".
14. A copy center in Sikatuna Village called "Pakopya ni Edgar".
15. A beerhouse in Cavite called, "Chickpoint" .
16. Laundromat in Sikatuna: " Star Wash : Attack of the Clothes".
17. Internet cafe in Taguig named, "n@kopi@".
18. Name of a kambingan, "Sa Goat Kita".
19. A salon somewhere, "Curl Up And Dye".
20. A lugawan in Sta. Maria, Bulacan: "Gee Congee".
21. A water refilling station in Dapitan named "Wa-Thirst".
22. A store selling feeds for chickens: "Robocock".
23. Shoe repair in Marikina : "Dr. Shoe-Bago".
24. Shoe repair store along Commonwealth, "SHOEPERMAN: we will HEEL you,
save your SOLE, and even DYE for you".
25. Petshop: "Petness First"
26. Flower shop: "Susan's Roses".
27. Taxicab: "Income Taxi".
28. A 2nd hand watch store: "2nd Time Around".
29. A squid stall in a wet market: "Pusit to the Limit".
30. A shrimp store: "Hipon Coming Back".
31. A gay lawyer's extension office: " Nota Republic ".
32. A ceiling installer: " Kisame Street ".
33. A car repair shop: "Bangga ka 'day?"
34. An aquatic pet store in Malolos: "Fish Be With You".
35. A fishball cart named, "Poke Poke".
36. A beauty salon: "Saudia Hairlines".
37. A bakery: "Anak Ng Tinapay".
38. A resto along Mayon road in Manila : "May Lisa Eatery".
39. Laundry shop: "Wash Your Problem".
40. This mobile massage business name isn't funny, but
their slogan is: "Asian Mobile Massage Service: Massage only, God is
watching".
41. Ice cream parlor: "Dila Lang Ang Katapat".
42. Chicharon store: "Chicha Hut".
43. Neighborhood pizza store: "Pizza Hot".
44. A fishball cart near UST: "Eat My Balls".
45. A barbershop in Cagayan de Oro: "Pinoy Big Barber".
46. A Resto: "The Last Supper".
47. A goto resto: "Goto Ko Pa!"
48. A peanut vendor's cart with a funny name: "Mani ni Papa".
49. A gym in Malolos: " Gaymann Fitness Center ".
50. My brother's party needs business: "Balloon-Balloonan" ..
51. A Chinese restaurant in Pasig : "Lah-Fang".
52. A store selling fresh chicken, owned by woman named Dina: "Dina Fresh
Chicken".
53. An actual bait and tackle shop in U.S. : "The Master Baiter".
54. Panaderia: "Trimonay Bakeshop".
55. Salon: "Hair Dot Comb".

Movie Review: When I Met You

2009-02-21T23:39:00.003+08:00

Category: Movies
Genre: Romance

I didn't like it. No offense to the cast and the director but I really didn't like it. It wasn't bad but the story line is way overused mejo gasgas na. I didn't feel na makakarelate ako or anyone that I know sa story.

KC here is beautiful as always but her role in this film doesn't suit her at all. The girl in the movie is mejo loudmouth and a little brash. KC's acting in that film is a little over-the-top kasi you can tell na it's not bagay sa kanya. It's like pinilit mo si KC umarte na tulad ng roles for Sarah Geronimo and Toni Gonzaga. I know na if you're an actress, you should be like a chameleon of some sort pagdating sa roles but KC's still new to this and aminin man natin or not may binabagayan yung acting na ganon. It just so happen na with KC, hindi bagay sa kanya yung ganon na roles.

Everytime she tried to yell/scream in her scenes sa movie, it made me cringe. You can tell na nahihirapan sya to "incorporate" herself don sa role niya because may accent yung salita niya. Hindi believable na she's a promodizer, who likes to yell at people and wear hotdog costumes. She's sassy, confident, gorgeous and intellectual. It's hard to see her acting na opposite non.

When it comes to the story line, I know that the first movie from Star Cinema mejo cliche ang dating but this one talagang "gasgas na." In For The First Time, KC spent most scenes crying which was understandable sa film because the story required for her to cry. It's weird naman na hindi sya iiyak in one of the most painful scenes sa story. In this movie however, there were some scenes na hindi naman kailangan magyell or umarte ng sobra but ginawa pa din. I was a little disappointed about it because I know that Joel Lamangan, who directed this film happens to be a very good director. I couldn't believe na hinayaan niya magkaganon. Sorry but that's how I see the film talaga.

Also, I'm a little disappointed about the location. I was hoping na this film would showcased PINAS in a different light. You know, something like Santorini Greece in their first film. Pinakita nila ang Palawan but nothing extravagant talaga. I was somehow expecting that this film would blow us away with the location just like in the first film where they held it in Santorini, Greece. I thought they would somehow make others see that PINAS has its own "Santorini" view but that didn't happen. In my own opinion, dapat nagshoot sila somewhere in Amanpulo, Palawan to make people see na there are places here in Pinas worth seeing. TOO BAD talaga.

The film was okay but If I would compare it to their first film, I would choose For The First Time. I like the story. It wasn't great but it wasn't over the top. The location blew me away. This one failed to do so. After watching the film, we didn't talk about it na unlike when we left nung sa first film. It didn't leave a lasting impression on us.

Just like what I've said, this film wasn't bad but not that great. A little boring for me. I was quite disappointed actually. But congratulations na rin for KC Concepcion and Richard Gutierrez.

I am hoping na someday makapagproduce naman tayo ng quality romantic film. Something that would be on everyone's favorite love story of all time.

My February Highlight

2009-02-20T02:12:00.002+08:00

Since February is almost over, I decided to write some of the highlights of my life for this month.

Around the first week of February, I accompanied my Tita G and her kids to Iacademy in Ayala, Makati. My cousin Renz got accepted at that school and he was invited to attend their open house. They had this seminar regarding the courses that the incoming freshmen would take in their academy. Renz plans to take up B.S. Animation. He already made up his mind to study there this year. So we'll see...

After that we went straight to Greenbelt 3. I missed the old times. I used to go there when I lived in QC with a friend. We usually go there once a week, watch a movie, dine somewhere fancy and hangout at Timezone. We also went to Landmark Makati and bought some stuff needed for the Masquerade Ball for this month.

Around the 2nd week of February, I bought my cousins masquerade mask from someone I met here online. Tita G and I found her store and bought 3 masks for my cousins. By February 13, my cousins attended their very first Masquerade Party at ESA. Jackie looked beautiful in her gown and cocktail dress. Renz looked stunning as well. Jackie was crowned as the "Star of the Night" and I'm so happy that she was chosen among all the high school students who attended the Masquerade Ball. She deserves it.

Also, I decided to change my hair color from black/cinnamon to red/blonde highlights LOL. I know it's a weird change but I figured its 2009 -- might as well enjoy this year and make bold changes. I had my hair cut short for the first time in nearly a decade. It went well.
I also attended Methea Jurin Magno's birthday party. It was fun.

My February is such a busy month and it's not even over yet. I have a lot of things to do. My organizer is full of schedules, things to do, to buy, to make and to attend. It's sort of chaotic. I have so much plans to make but so little time to do all of it. I am hoping that I can be able to do all the things that I want before the month ends.

Hopefully, this won't be my last and only entry for this month. I'll try to update my blog as much as I can since I know that some cousins of mine in US are reading this.

LIGHTER NOTES:

Let me just greet Jason a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! He turned 17 this year (I think)...Also, Belated Happy Birthday again to THEA (Noodles' cutie daughter)...Noodles, thanks for the late christmas presents hehehe...Thanks a lot.

Happy 29th Wedding Anniversary as well to my Late Mama and Papa. (He went to Manila Memorial Park that day and I'm glad that he made some effort for that).

HAPPY HEARTS DAY AS WELL (i know its late but it's still Feb. so better late than never, right?) I didn't get to spend it with someone because unfortunately Jon's busy as always and another friend of mine has some important things to do at his school. DARN! But I'm happy that they greeted me that day. THANK YOU Jon (for the gift) and Sim.

Oh and before I forgot...I am also a little pissed off because of some car problems. I need to shell out a huge sum of moolah for a paint job of 2 cars totaled last Monday (Feb.16'09)...Darn! Not My Fault - that's all I can say. END OF STORY. GOODBYE. :D

Mama Jean: 25th Year In Heaven

2009-01-13T15:54:00.001+08:00

Last January 8, 2009 was my Mama Jean's 25th death anniversary. Since it was on weekdays, no one was available to visit her at Manila Memorial Park.

My Tita Beth who arrived from California last Dec.31, 2009 scheduled a reunion for the rest of us last Saturday (January 10, 2009) at MMP.

Uncle T and his family arrived first at 1pm followed by Ninang Kate and her kids at 2 pm. Tita G, myself and her kids arrived at 4pm while Tita Beth and her family arrived past 5pm. I wasn't supposed to join them due to an upset stomachache LOL but I decided to suck it up, take some medicines and join them.

It was our first family reunion since 7 years. Of course, we're not complete. Mama V and the rest of my maternal side of the family are still in the States. Hopefully this year, they would spend their christmas and new year here in the Philippines with us. I'm sure it would be one hell of reunion. I can't wait for that to happen.

Anyway, we took some pictures while waiting for everyone to arrive and took some more before dusk. We prayed before leaving Manila Memorial Park and went straight to SM Sucat for dinner. We went to eat at Flavors of China - all 19 of us. We had a great time. I had a great time.

To be honest, I'm not really into celebrating my mom's death anniversary because I'm still not fully recovered from the "what might have been if she was still alive" kind of thinking. It is still my only regret in life. It's hard to commemorate her year of death because it would only bring back the regret that I have in my life and the woulda, shoulda, coulda if she was still alive.

Something so hard
goes straight to the soul;
it seems impossible to get over
and my heart is left with a big hole.

I'm trying to be happy, wearing a smile;
but I'm dying inside.
The world seems to be fading,
and I just want to run and hide.

Everywhere I go I see your face,
and realize how much I miss you;
and on the day you died
a piece of me died too.

So as much as I can, I didn't focus my attention on Mama's death anniversary. Instead, I tried to enjoy the day with the rest of my family. I focused my attention and energy to the reunion with the rest of my relatives in my maternal side of the family.

I am still glad that it went well. As usual, spending time with my maternal side of the family is like a breath of fresh air. A good way to start my 2009.

To My Cousin in New Jersey - DANIELLE - HAPPY BURPDAY

Brunch With Friends

2009-01-04T12:10:00.001+08:00

Mariel and Dessa at Pancake House

Last Thursday, I received a message from a friend of mine telling me that another friend of ours needs our help. I messaged my friend in need and asked her if we can meet the next day. Unfortunately, we weren't able to meet that day due to some unavoidable family circumstances with the new year thing and all.

So we set up a brunch date last Saturday at Mcdonalds in LP. Dessa asked me to bring some important stuff for the brunch date and I did. My father and I woke up early and stopped to every mercury drugs store we could find.

I arrived at Mcdonalds LP by 7 am or so. I saw Mariel having her breakfast there. We hugged and talked while waiting for Dessa to arrive. She gave me some blow by blow details regarding her love life and family life. I told her some stories about how my father wanted to wait for us until he can bring us to a nearby hospital.

The reason of the brunch date is a health problem from one friend of mine.

After a few minutes, Dessa arrived at Mcdonalds. She came from Laguna for the New Year's Eve. We talked for several minutes and decided to hangout at Starbucks. Unfortunately, Starbucks in LP won't open till 9 am. So we had a quick detour to pancake house from a nearby mall.

Once there we started talking nonstop about our lives. I missed those kind of days because I used to hangout with them way back in College. We used to have lunch together 5 days a week. Dessa and I became house buddies during our college days but since we were able to hangout during our City of Pines vacation, it was Mariel I missed the most.

Marie in one of her candid shots

Angie, another friend of mine, couldn't make it that day and I was sad about it. Dessa called her at lunch time and we talked for a few minutes. I miss her as well.

We talked and took some pictures inside Pancake House. Mariel had a roast beef for breakfast. I ordered salisbury steak while Dessa had tapa. Quite a heavy meal for a brunch, no? But that didn't matter because we were there for 2 hours laughing, talking and reminiscing the old times. It was fun. I even took some candid snapshots of them while eating/talking.

Dessa with infamous tongue/peace sign pose

On serious note, we discussed the reason of our brunch date and made a few options to consider for that day. We ended up going to Christ the King in LP and waited for an hour just for a tiny piece of paper that contained important stuff.

While waiting, we talked again about some "issues" about our lives. We opened up about a lot of things that I normally would never talk about or some things they won't probably share with me. It's nice to hear them speak the truth about certain emotions. I feel good by just releasing some anguish that I long kept.

That day was one of those funny, exhilirating, suspenseful and eventful brunch of our lives.

When we received what we were waiting for that day, the 3 of us were smiling. Dessa decided to make things 100% sure by taking the sample and checking it again. I feel happy because I know that there won't be any serious problems and I know that the 2 of them feel that way too.

Mariel went home after that. Dessa and I decided to watch a random movie in SM Bacoor. By 4pm, I went back home and told my father the good news.

I am so glad that everything went well that day. It's a good year to start for myself, for Mariel and for Dessa. Hopefully, our plans to go to Sagada early this year would push through. I really hope so.

A New Dawn Of Starting Over

2009-01-01T16:35:00.001+08:00

As I close another chapter of my life, a new one opens.

2009 - Year of the OX - as what the chinese astrology says. I was born under the year of the monkey. I got curious about my 2009 prediction. I don't usually believe in astrological stuff but curiousity gets the best of me. After reading it, eventhough I don't necessarily believe in this kind of stuff; I want it to HAPPEN. I hope this would come true.

Anyway, let me share to all of you what my year -- YEAR OF THE MONKEY (1980) would be experiencing.

Monkey Year Borns: (1908, 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992)

Famous Monkey People: Celine Dion, Johny Cash, Jennifer Aniston, Julius Caesar, Leonardo da Vinci, David Copperfield, Joe Cocker, Bette Davis, Timothy Dalton and Christina Aquilera.

Good Personality Traits: Successful, Intelligent, Inventive and Good Memory.

Bad Personality Traits: Discouraging, Problematic, Dangerous and Talkative.

Monkey’s Compatibility: Rat and Dragon.

Forecast: According to the Chinese Horoscope for Monkey, these people are going to have a great fortune in 2009.

However, with the coming of this fortune comes a warning too, they need not be overconfident in 2009. The year will have a slow start but eventually it will turn out to be one of the best years in the Monkey’s life.

The Monkeys are most likely to get rewarded for their ideas and efforts in 2009. Chinese Astrology also warns these people against having too many ideas at a time in their professional life. Monkeys are going to have immense popularity and support of their co-workers this year.

Chinese Horoscope 2009 indicates that the Monkeys are going to enjoy an active social life. Their spouse will be more active than ever before in 2009. Single Monkeys are going to wed this year with their desired partners. 2009 will also bring along great networking for these people and they are most likely to join some groups or networks.

Chinese Horoscope for Monkey indicates that the diseases belonging to this Chinese Sun sign are going to get a lot of relief this year. In other words, the Monkeys are going to progress in terms of health. These people are advised to have ample rest in 2009 for physical as well as mental relief.

Monkeys are going to enjoy stability in their love relationship in 2009. Overall, the Year of Ox will bring along great rapport for the Monkeys in everyone’s heart. This year, the Monkeys are going to be the second luckiest zodiac sign out of the twelve signs in Chinese Astrology.

OH God please help this forecast to come true... :) I badly need a new beginning. I want things to be different - better different in my life. Something new to experience so that I can learn new lessons in life. I want to be good this time. I want to achieve something this year. Hopefully, things will turn out the way I want it or at least make it a great year for me.

Anyway, we went to Shrine of Jesus this morning to give thanks to God. I went there to pray with Papa, Tita Rose and my cousin Clyde. We then went for a walk at Esplanade Bayside. It was a nice day for 2009. A good start for me because I was able to pray and give thanks to GOD. I can't wait to start a new chapter. I'll wipe away all the bad memories and start good ones this year.

Or as they say...

Not forget, but forgive the past; being happy about the present; and I truly and deeply believe the future will be even better!

My Last Blog Entry For 2008

2008-12-31T00:00:00.000+08:00

In less than 24 hours, I will be saying goodbye to 2008. I can't believe that another year is over. I surpassed another year of challenges. A lot of things happened and I am thankful that inspite of all the trials I have experienced, I am still alive and kicking. (LOL)

Time flies so fast. A lot of changes occurred in my life and in the lives of my family and friends.

Here's a flashback of my 2008 highlights:

JANUARY: Mariel's mom died and I was able to meet my long lost friends from college since after a year of not seeing each other. I stayed in my friends dormitory and we talked about some issues in my life that seemed to be the "hot topic" at that time.

FEBRUARY: An old friend texted me about some unanswered issues that was left behind last 2007. It took him a year to text me. He wanted to straighten out some thing and I didn't let him. I'm done waiting for him to talk. I moved on with the issues. I let it go and I finally realized that things won't ever be the same again.

MARCH: A lot of birthday celebrants in my family. I celebrated it with them. I also had some problems with Jon that I thought we would never be able to solved. Jon had his surgery and I thank God he's fine. My cousin Jackie passed her crown at her school that month. I made her beautiful during her last motorcade and during the even itself.

APRIL: I treated Mama V and cousins to Oceana Island Cove for a swim. We went to visit crocodile farm, butterfly farm and the fishing village. Papa also left for Iloilo that month.

MAY: I treated Kim, my cousins and Mama V at Tokyo Cafe. We celebrated Kim's pre-16th birthday there. Don also celebrated his birthday. This was the month that Don and I used my father's cars without his permission. We went to see the Discovery Center without him knowing until now. I also processed and updated some of my personal documents such passport, driver's license and NBI Clearance.

JUNE: Mama left for US. We held her despedida party at her place. I bought her favorite foods such as pizza, pancit malabon and red ribbon cake. Daren also stayed at my house during weekends. Papa came back home. I found out about Noodles condition. I went to her place for the first time after so many years.

JULY: I spent most of my time with Don and Daren. Daren's board exam was scheduled that month.

AUGUST: Daren passed his board exam. I hate the weather during that month. Don left the country.

SEPTEMBER: Sim celebrated his birthday and I gave him a sort of surprise party. Daren also left the country that month.

OCTOBER: It was Jiro's month. I gave him money for his birthday. I went to MMP with papa and was left alone for 2-3 hours in the cemetery. Tried some business deals with Noodles about ODM watches. Noodles and I reminisced the good old movie days that month. I also celebrated papa's 60th birthday.

NOVEMBER: It was my month!!! I turned 28. Darn it! It was also my late mom's 54th birthday. I made an entry about her in my blogs and most of my relatives read it. Some of them even told me they cried. THANKS FOR THE APPRECIATION. Mariel also called us for our scheduled trip but Dessa and I ended up going to baguio - MY FIRST VACATION for 2008 LOL. Papa went to Iloilo because my aunt (father's side) died of cancer that month and Hana arrived before the month ended.

DECEMBER: BUSY MONTH! Hana arrived from Canada, Daren arrived from other country as well. They got married on the first week. Tita Rose came to join us the following week. We had a family weekend getaway in Tagaytay. Hana went back to Canada. Daren left the country again after 2 weeks. Tita went to Iloilo. I celebrated christmas with Papa and some of his relatives. I received a lot of gifts from my mom's side of the family -- those in the states (CHIE, YAYA, TITA BETH, MAMA V, MOMMY, DADDY, YHAN and Family - THANK YOU SO MUCH!). Tita Rose came back here again and she will be celebrating NEW YEAR'S EVE with papa and me later this evening! HURRAH! and there's going to be a surprise for ZASH and her family this 6am...someone's going to drop by for good??? :D

I had a good year... I am hoping that my 2009 - YEAR of the OX would be GREAT! I read in some chinese astrology websites that my year -- year of the monkey in the year of the ox would be a great one. This year would be full of career opportunities and travels. OH PLEASE...MAKE THAT HAPPEN.

Also...I have 10 RESOLUTIONS TO MAKE for 2009 and these are...

Look for career opportunities outside/inside the country.

Learn new knowledge about something that interests me.

Have a HEALTHY and CLEAN Lifestyle.

Be responsible with my financial accounts. SAVE.

Explore the country more or if possible other countries.

Learn how to cook good foods.

Read more and Learn how to destress myself all the time.

Always keep a positive energy/outlook in my life.

ALWAYS SMILE and face the challenges of life without fear. NO FEAR this time.

THE MOST IMPORTANT: MAKE ALL MY RESOLUTIONS AND OTHER RESOLUTIONS FROM THE PAST YEARS TO COME TRUE. MAKE IT HAPPEN.

I am thankful for my 2008 eventhough it's kinda slow. Hopefully, my 2009 would be better - way better than the past years. I wish my family, friends and myself A GOOD HEALTH and GOOD FORTUNE for this coming year. I hope that whatever challenges that we will be facing in 2009, we would all be able to surpass it without any problems.

This is my last blog entry for 2008. In few hours, I will be welcoming 2009 outside my house along with my family.

HAPPY 2009 EVERYONE!

One Wedding, One Funeral And A Get-Together

2008-12-20T14:56:00.000+08:00

I didn't expect that the month of December will be full of unexpected surprises. I just got back from my vacation with Dessa in the City of Pines last November.

This December, there are a few surprises that happened. One of those surprises was the immediate wedding plan of Hana and Daren. They had their civil wedding at PCMH under a reverend. It was a short ceremony sort of like a rush one. I, along with my father and their godparents were the only one present in that ceremony. Tita Rose didn't make it because she was still working in Iloilo that time.

The reception or should I say -- dinner date was held at MOA. It was a simple gathering but according to Hana, they're still planning to have a church wedding in the immediate future. The rushed wedding was because of Hana's immigration status in Canada. After a week, Daren went back in the far east for work and Hana went back to Canada. It was that quick but enough to celebrate a few good times.

However, in my family, my father's sister -- or should I say "my tita" died of Cancer. He went back in Iloilo to attend the funeral. It was also a quick one. He came back a few days later just in time for Hana's arrival from Canada. I feel bad that someone died but I wasn't sad. I don't know them that well. I was never close to my paternal side of the family. I don't even have any memories of meeting them. My father was really sad when he heard the news but I can only sympathize with him. I didn't feel any remorse. I still went on to enjoy my vacation.

Was it wrong for me to do that? Maybe.

But I didn't feel guilty. I never really knew them. Never like some of my paternal side of the family. Never tried to get to know them. Some of them are strangers to me rather than relatives. I feel bad that my relationship with them didn't grow but I'm not sorry. I am much more closer to my late mother's side of the family and they matter to me more than anyone else from my father's side. It wasn't anyone's fault. I just grew up not liking their side.

Inspite of that, I STILL SENT MY CONDOLENCES TO MY RELATIVES.

I guess mas worst ang feelings for papa because he needed to be able to handle his emotions really well. He needed to be happy for Hana and Daren's wedding while still grieving for the death of his sister. I'm proud of him because he didn't let his emotions get the best of him. He handled everything okay.

The were no fights in the funeral. He was happy to be at Hana and Daren's wedding. He did well.

After that, Tita Rose arrived here and we celebrated the few days together as a "family" -- sort of like a get-together after being separated for quite a long time. We're not complete since Don is still working abroad but somehow our weekend get-together in Tagaytay was a priceless moment.

In those kind of times, I feel happy because I was able to experience a family moments that I never really had. It was just me and father for the past how many years. I dreamed of having a complete family. Of course, it's not the same as with having my mama jean with me but it's a good alternative. It makes me feel good.

My father, Tita Rose, Hana, Daren, Deven (cousin) and Myself went to Tagaytay last week. We had a great time. A get-together since Hana left Pinas last year. A good way to end my 2008. A family time...it's what I needed.

On the other hand...

THANKS SO MUCH to my mom's side of the family in Glendale, USA for all the pasalubong they gave to me and my father. THANK YOU.

Also, Uncle T left for Brunei last night and I wish him well. I'll hope for the best for his career, family and health. I also can't wait for Tita Beth's arrival.

I am also hoping for a possible job opportunity for 2009. Someone called me yesterday for a chance to be a part of something and I hope that everything will turn out for the best.

I may not have everything in life but at least, I can achieve some of my dreams in due time.

My Short City Break In The City Of Pines

2008-12-10T17:43:00.001+08:00

My friends and I decided to plan a getaway for us to hangout and reminisce the good ol' days. Mariel, our trip organizer planned an exciting trip for us to take on the last week of November. We've been waiting for this trip for so long since most of us needed it badly.

This trip was something that we were all looking forward to for the past months. Dessa was stressed with her duties at umc-dlsu-dasma and she needed to unwind. Mariel wanted to travel just to be with us and relax. Angie's always busy with work and we wanted to see her as well. I wanted this vacation for myself - a birthday gift to myself.

Unfortunately, Angie backed out because of personal matters. Two weeks before the scheduled trip, Mariel backed out as well due to health reasons. I was thinking of cancelling the trip but Dessa wanted for it to push through. She needed a break. I figured I needed one too. So, we went on but made some major changes for this trip. I wanted something near and familiar. The original plan was to travel somewhere far but I changed it due to the fact that I didn't want Dessa and I to get lost in the middle of nowhere. I picked somewhere familiar, at least to me. I chose Baguio - City of Pines.

Our exhausting but fun journey began on November 26, 2008.

Day 1: Nov.26,2008 (Wednesday)

Dessa and I decided to meet somewhere and travel together to Victory Bus in Pasay City. We left Manila at 2pm and arrived at Baguio exactly 8pm. I called Victory Bus Terminal a few days back for their scheduled trip and found out that their luxury coaches with CR are scheduled to travel around 11am and 11 pm. Their luxury coaches without CR travel in between those times while their regular buses with aircons are available anytime of the day. I opted for the luxury coaches without CR because we arrived at the terminal at 1:30pm. We already missed their luxury coaches with CR and I didn't want to wait for 11pm for the next departure. We paid 650php each for the deluxe coaches without CR and 5-6hrs of traveling with 1 pitstop. Their deluxe coaches with CR cost 710php and travel 5-6hours without pitstops while their regular bus costs 450php more or less. This will take you 7-8 hours with 3 pitstops before reaching Baguio.

Once we arrived in Baguio, we went straight to HOTEL VENIZ in Abanao Street. Once there, we found out that they were fully booked for the weekend. MY BAD! I didn't make any reservations. Fortunately, they were able to give us a room for the night but we needed to check-out by 12 noon the following day. I got stressed the whole night. I called every hotels and Inns that I know in Baguio but no luck. Most of them were fully booked that weekend. I couldn't sleep well.

BAGUIO TIP #1: MAKE A RESERVATION BECAUSE YOU DON'T WANT TO END UP WASTING YOUR TIME IN FINDING ANOTHER HOTEL OR INN. ALSO, DON'T RELY TO THEIR WEBSITE WHEN IT COMES TO ROOM RATES. CALL THEM. When I was in our hotel room, I checked the website of HOTEL SUPREME and found out that they have decent room rates for their regular season. I called them and their room rates changed or should I say doubled. It was a bit pricey for a regular season.

DAY 2: November 27, 2008 (Thursday)

At 8am, Dessa and I braved the cold weather and walked around the city to find a decent lodging place for the weekend. We couldn't find one. I even called one INN that night and they told me that they have an available room for us but when we went there that morning, they told us that they were already fully booked. It was so stressful for our 2nd day in the city of pines. So, I decided to go in Victory Bus Terminal to see if we can find someone who could offer us a room for the weekend but then again NO LUCK.

I was frustrated because I didn't want to spend my entire day looking for a room to stay in Baguio. Aside from that, by 12 noon we needed to check-out at Veniz and if we couldn't find any rooms before that then we're in deep trouble. As the clock was ticking, Dessa and I decided to visit MICROTEL INN which is just beside the Victory Bus Terminal. This is located at Upper side of Engineer's Hill just minutes away from the city. A good place to crash because it is not as noisy as the other hotels in the city. I stayed there before with Hana last 2007. The place was a bit pricey. The receptionist told us that they can accommodate us for the weekend for the price of (drumroll please....) 8000php. It's a bit too much for us. I didn't want to shell out that kind of money for lodging. We won't be hanging out there 24hrs a day. We were seriously considering the place since we were desperate to find a lodging place but I was a little hesitant about it and so was Dessa. SO WE TOOK THE RISK.

We decided to try looking for another hotel in the vicinity. As we were walking outside Microtel, I saw some houses with transient signs on their gates. I decided to try it out. We knocked the first house we saw which is just across Microtel Inn. We talked to the owner of the house and found out that her place is actually a boys dormitory for students in UP Baguio. We told her our dilemma and she offered us her extra room which costs 2250php for our whole trip. We were so happy because we finally found a place to stay and we also saved hefty amount of money for a lodging place. (just imagine if we paid 8k or 5k in Microtel and Veniz respectively...di ba that's too much) I personally recommend this place because it's pretty cheap and the owner is very nice. Her name is Dang Hernandez.

BAGUIO TIP#2: TRY TRANSIENT HOUSES NEAR VICTORY BUS TERMINAL. IT'S ON THE UPPER SIDE OF ENGINEER'S HILL. THE PLACE IS JUST A FEW MINUTES AWAY FROM THE CITY WITH LESS NOISE. IT'S NOT AS CROWDED AS THE ONES IN THE CITY. IT'S ALSO PRETTY CHEAP AND HOMEY. IF INTERESTED, MESSAGE ME AND I'LL GIVE YOU ATE DANG'S CP NUMBER FOR INQUIRIES.

Once things were settled, Dessa and I took a walk near that place until we reached Panagbenga Park. We took pictures and finally I wasn't stressed anymore. By 12 noon, we checked out Veniz and brought our stuff to Ate Dang's house. After unpacking and talking to Ate Dang about the places in Baguio, Dessa and I went on to enjoy our vacation.

Our first stop -- PINK SISTERS (or so that was where we planned to go).Ate Dang told us that Pink Sisters is just a few blocks away from her place. We decided to go on foot and asked the locals to point us to the right direction. They were very nice to us. However, one girl pointed us to the wrong direction. I don't know if that was intentional because she directed us to the opposite side of the turnpike. We kept on walking for like an hour thinking that we were on the right path. We were so DUMB not to realized what Ate Dang told us -- she clearly said that -- PINK SISTERS was just minutes away from her house. We walked for an hour until we reached BOTANICAL GARDEN. We were shocked. PINK SISTERS was nowhere near the place. It was on the other side.

Instead of getting mad or ruining our day, we just decided to see BOTANICAL GARDEN and took some pictures. We also visited some souvenir shops inside. On our way out, we hailed a taxi (so we won't get lost again) and directed him to PINK SISTERS (that's when we found out that the girl pointed us to a wrong direction). Once there, we prayed and wrote our dedication for a couple of minutes. It was something that I needed that time.

After that, we went to CAMP JOHN HAY MANOR and our taxi driver dropped us off to their boutiques just below the MANOR (not a good thing!). We didn't know where to go so we just kept on walking until we reached the GOLF COUNTRY CLUB. I was tired with so much walking adventures. Good thing their weather was really nice. We ate our lunch at STARBUCKS. Dessa and I ordered mocha frappe and ice chocolate with whipped cream on top respectively. We also ordered a yummy waffles with whipped cream and honey syrup. We needed the SUGAR RUSH.

We then found out that the tourist spot in CJHM is actually located near the Historical Core of the place which is situated at the back of the MANOR. I could see the manor on the other side of the hill. It was a long walk. I backed out.

BAGUIO TIP #3: IF YOU DON'T KNOW YOUR WAY INSIDE CAMP JOHN HAY THEN ASK THEIR SECURITY PERSONNEL. CJHM IS A HUGE PLACE. THE ONLY TOURIST SPOT YOU CAN SEE THERE IS LOCATED AT THEIR HISTORICAL CORE. ASK A SECURITY GUARD TO POINT YOU TO THE RIGHT WAY TO AVOID LONG EXHAUSTING WALKS.

After our CJHM adventure, we then proceeded to MINES VIEW PARK.

BAGUIO TIP #4: IN ORDER TO SAVE HEFTY AMOUNT OF FARE IF YOU DON'T HAVE YOUR OWN CAR WITH YOU, TRY TO TRAVEL IN PLACES NEAR EACH OTHER. TAXIS IN BAGUIO ARE PRETTY CHEAP IF YOU KNOW YOUR WAY AROUND. TRY PLANNING YOUR ROUTES TO SAVE MONEY.

BAGUIO TIP #5: ONCE YOU RIDE A TAXI, CHECK IF THE DRIVER TURN HIS METER ON. SOME DRIVERS DON'T TURN ON THEIR METERS SO THEY CAN ASK TOURIST FOR A MUCH PRICEY FARE. AVOID THAT. ALSO, DON'T EXPECT AN AIRCON TAXI IN BAGUIO, HINDI USO DON. IN MOST OF OUR CITY TRAVELS THERE, WE SPENT 30php to 60php TAXI FARE. PRETTY CHEAP, RIGHT?

In MINES VIEW PARK, we took a picture with DJ, the St.Bernard for 100php (3 pics). Then we went to their view deck and snapped some photos. Dessa rented an Ifugao costume with the Senior Citizen Association inside and took some photo souvenirs. After that, we bought some stuff and pasalubong in their mini stalls inside the park. We then went to Ibay's Silver Store and bought some silver jewelries. I bought a bond ring for 250php with my name engraved on it. Dessa bought a thumb ring and some earrings for cousins. We also visited their workshop at the back of their store. It's fun to watch how they make those silver jewelries.

BAGUIO TIP #6: HAGGLE! LEARN TO HAGGLE. IT'S NICE IF YOU CAN BUY STUFF FOR A CHEAP PRICE.

After spending our afternoon in Ibay's Silver Workshop, I begged Dessa to watched TWILIGHT with me in SM BAGUIO. We watched it twice and Dessa was literally screaming with the rest of the girls for Edward Cullen. It was my first time to be in that kind of crowd. I love watching movies in cinemas but I never encountered screaming girls everytime the lead actor appeared in the big screen. Dessa was squirming and screaming for Edward Cullen. She became a fan overnight. She hasn't even read the book yet. The movie house was crowded with girls. Apparently, Baguio girls are really into the TWILIGHT SAGA. We even saw long lines for their last full show. Dessa and I bought our dinner at Pizza Hut and went back to Ate Dang's place. We ate, laughed, girl-talked and took a rest.

DAY 3: November 28, 2008 (Friday)

We woke up early. I felt rejuvenated and relaxed after our long walks yesterday and a terrible ordeal in finding a place to stay. Ate Dang's place was simple but homey. Our room consists of 2 double beds good for 4. We didn't have an electric fan because we didn't need one in Baguio since the weather was so cold. There was nothing extravagant in her house but I felt at home.

Once outside, Dessa and I went to the Victory Bus Terminal which is just minutes away from our place. I decided to make an early reservation for our depature on Sunday because I didn't want to get stucked in Baguio by then. Most tourists would go back in Manila that same day. It's better to get early reservations. We bought De Luxe with CR tickets that would depart at 12 noon.

BAGUIO TIP #7: MAKE AN EARLY RESERVATION FOR YOUR BUS LALO NA PAGHOLIDAYS AND WEEKENDS. YOU DON'T WANT TO GET STRANDED AND WAIT FOR HOURS PARA SA BUS NIYO. IF YOU WANT TO LEAVE BAGUIO EARLY THEN BUY YOUR TICKETS EARLY DIN.

After that, we hired a taxi to take us to TAM-AWAN VILLAGE (GARDEN IN THE SKY) at PINSAO PROPER - the highest peak of Baguio. I asked some locals regarding the place the other day. I found out that in order to get there, we needed a taxi that would take us there and back to the city. It would cost us a little bit if we travel by taxi but the good thing about it is that we won't need to walk and wait for hours to find a jeepney. Jeepney Terminals are located far from the place and taxis are not always available there. It's better to travel if you can hire a taxi back and forth. We asked some taxi drivers and most of them offered 1000php-1500php back and forth. We met a certain Kuya Dario who offered us 700php roundtrip for 3 hours (meaning 3 hours lang kami sa Tam-awan Village).

BAGUIO TIP #8: DON'T PAY YOUR TAXI DRIVER AS SOON AS YOU REACH TAM-AWAN VILLAGE. LET HIM WAIT FOR YOU. PAY HIM ONCE YOUR IN THE CITY NA. THAT WAY, HE WON'T LEAVE YOU STRANDED IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE.

When we were there na, we paid 50php each for the entrance and hiked up the hill. It was pretty steep but doable. We reached the Artists Hub in the village. Roland Bay-An made my caricature while Jordan Mang-osan made my portrait. There are a lot of famous filipino artists in Tam-Awan Village. It's their hangout spot and you can have your portrait for just 100php. They did mine for 15 minutes. You can also ask for workshops in Solar painting, portrait and dreamcatcher making. You can also stay for a night there in one of their native huts for just 900php. You can ask for a bonfire or cultural dance. BUT -- make sure you have your own car or you have someone to pick you up the following day. YOU DON'T WANT TO WAIT FOR HOURS just for a ride, di ba?

We took pictures of their diffrent huts and crossed their small hanging bridge up the hill. We also hiked up to their sunset view deck. It's like an eco-trail but not as tiring as CJHM. Once finished, we went back to the city. We asked our driver if he could take us to CJHM for the 2nd time in our trip because I wanted to visit the CEMETERY OF NEGATIVISM. This time, we asked for directions and our driver dropped us off to the HISTORICAL CORE in CJHM.

We paid 30php for entrance. Our first stop was the LOST CEMETERY or better known as the CEMETERY OF NEGATIVISM. I took pictures and found my own cemetery of negativism. I especially love the tomb -- KNOT A. TEEMPLAER (Not A Team Player). His memoir was funny -- BORN A STAR, LIVED A METEOR, DIED IN FLAMES. LOL. Dessa also found her own cemetery of negativism which stated EYE FOREGOT.

After that, we went to the AMPITHEATER across it. We visited the Historical Trait down the MANOR and the BELL HOUSE. We took pictures everywhere. It was fun.

We were famished by the time we went back to the main entrance. We then went straight to CAFE BY THE RUINS in SHUNTUG STREET in front of the City Hall. It was hailed as one of Baguio's Best. We ordered the best shredded tapa that we ever tasted! We also ordered a lemon tea grass with pandan leaves. For desserts, we ordered a mango crepe with vanilla ice cream and chocolate syrup. For that meal, we paid 1000php - quite pricey for a lunch date but it was worth it. THE FOOD WAS DELICIOUS.

We then went for a walk to BURNHAM PARK down to their SKATING RINK and SOCCER FIELD (not much to see) just minutes away from Shuntug.

BAGUIO TIP #9: THERE'S NOTHING TO SEE IN BURNHAM PARK UNLESS YOU WANT TO EXPERIENCE A BOAT RIDE ADVENTURE. THERE ARE A LOT OF PEOPLE IN THAT PLACE. IT'S VERY CROWDED AND FULL OF SNATCHERS SO BEWARE.

After that, we went to the MANSION and took some pictures. Across the street, we went to WRIGHT PARK and visited their mini stalls for souvenirs. They also have their own eco-trail in that place. There's nothing extravagant in that place unless you like to ride a horse. From what I noticed, we couldn't find any tall pine trees in Baguio. They have a lot of trees but we couldn't find any nice pine trees. LOL.

By late afternoon, we went back to Ate Dang's place to rest. Around 6pm, we went to NEVADA SQUARE for dinner. NEVADA SQUARE is a haven for people who likes to party. Every weekend, there's a live band performing in that place. There are a lot of bars/restos to choose from. We were the first one to go there. The party usually starts at 9pm. We had our dinner at BEACH HOUSE (ironic, kasi wala namang beach don) but later we found out that the bar/resto originated from Boracay. We had fun there. By the time the party was starting, Dessa and I decided to leave because we were too exhausted to hangout. We went back to our place and rest.

DAY 4: November 29, 2008 (Saturday)

Dessa and I went to STRAWBERRY FARM in LA TRINIDAD, BENGUET outside Baguio. It was less than an hour ride due to traffic. We paid 100php for that trip. We thought we could harvest some strawberries but the locals told us that strawberry season will be on its full bloom around February. So, we just decided to buy some strawberries in their stalls. I also bought some gifts and pasalubong for my Tita G and her family. We went back to Baguio by 12 noon and had our lunch at 50's DINER in LEONARD WOOD. They had a huge serving. A crowded diner but they have a wide selection of yummy diner foods. Dessa ordered a Mama Susie's Fried Chicken. She was shocked to see 3 pieces of fried chicken in her plate. I ordered a cordon bleu. It was yummy. We also took pictures inside the diner.

A MEMORABLE OOPSS: I wanted to take some photos with the owner's car but weren't able to because the car moved when Dessa tried to touch it. I'm not sure but I think Dessa put a dent on that car LOL.

We went back to Ate Dang's place and started packing our pasalubong. We slept for about an hour and then went straight to BAGUIO CATHEDRAL to pray for our safe departure the following day. We also watched a wedding ceremony for a couple of minutes. After that, we went to BAGUIO CITY MARKET and bought more pasalubong. Dessa bought her mom some fresh veggies - it's pretty cheap don. I bought my cousins some knocked off ODM watches LOL. We went to BAYANIHAN BUILDING for wagwagan (ukay-ukay) but noticed that most of their clothes were pretty worn out. They're pretty cheap talaga like 50php for a pair of jeans or shirt BUT they're secondhand and some of them looked DIRTY and OLD. So we skipped bayanihan and walked a couple of blocks to Session Road. We went to SKYWORLD, another wagwagan stores. They're clothes are not secondhand but a bit pricey for an ukay-ukay. Some of them are knocked offs of designer clothes and bags. You can buy a lacoste bag for 1000php and LV for 3000php. A pair of NIKE warmer for 500php and designer jeans for less than 500php. The trick is to HAGGLE and choose wisely from their wide range of items. I wanted to buy a nice nike jacket for my cousin Jiro. It was less than 500php but I was having 2nd thoughts about it. I decided not to buy it na lang kesa isipin ko pa ng isipin.

Dessa and I walked around Session Road. I saw my favorite coffee shop but the place was crowded already. It was almost 6 pm when we hiked up to SM Baguio for dinner. We ate at DENCIOS and did some window shopping in SM Baguio. I bought some shirts for my cousin and Dessa bought a perfume. Some items are on SALE there.

We went back to Ate Dang around 9 pm and immediately packed our stuff. We talked for hours and finally rest around 12 midnight.

Day 5: November 30,2008 (Sunday)

We woke up early and had our brunch at Ebai's Coffee Shop blocks away from Ate Dang's house. I ordered a boneless milkfish with hot chocolate. By 1130am, we left Ate Dang's house and walked straight to Victory Bus Terminal. We left Baguio at 12 noon and arrived in Pasay City at 6pm. I went straight to Tita G's house to give my pasalubong sa kanila by 7pm. I was DEAD TIRED but HAPPY because I was able to give myself a good vacation for this year.

One thing that I learned for this vacation -- The memories I spent with a friend for this trip was priceless. I should always treasure every moments such as this one forever. I'm really glad that I took this trip. I feel great, energized and happy.

By the way...

** My dad's sister died of Cancer that same week. I was never close to their family and I didn't know them really well so I wasn't affected about it. I felt sad for my father because I know he loves his sister. Zashie's uncle also died that week. I sent my condolences to both families.

** Hana also came back from Canada to marry her long time boyfriend. I was present in their civil wedding at Pasay City Hall last Wednesday (December 3, 2008). CONGRATULATIONS and BEST WISHES TO HANA AND DAREN. Hana is going back to Canada on the 17th of this month and Daren will be leaving the country for work on the 15th.

** Belated Happy Birthday to my LATE TATAY (25), MOMMY (26) and RAINE (27)

Movie Review: Twilight

2008-12-04T22:03:00.003+08:00

Genre: Romance

I watched this movie last November 26, 2008 at SM Baguio. I was with Dessa and I begged her to watch this film with me. I waited for this since last August of 2008 and I was thrilled na finally nasa movie theaters na siya.

The big question is -- Did I like it????

Well...that's open to interpretation. I am a fan of the saga and if you're a fan - a true fanatic of the books, then hindi big deal if the movie adaptation wasn't as good as the book. Fan ka ng book not ng movie.

They stayed true to the story but there were minor changes. It didn't bother me na may binago sila maybe because I've been reading the book over and over na rin. In my mind, nakafixed na yung mga scenarios and kahit anong gawin ng movie adaptation nito - nothing will changed sa mind ko.

I found the story line na mejo mabilis sort of like minadali yung every scenes. I read the books for the nth time and when I watched the movie version, somehow it felt like naka-on yung fast forward button ng remote. Everything was in full rush and they missed out some "kilig scenes" from the book.

What made me like this film are the actors who portrayed the Twilight characters. I heard some people telling others na they sucked and that some main characters were not effective sa role nila but for me - they're okay.

When I read the saga, I didn't visualize any characters doon to any actors. Why? Because there's no one na pwedeng magplay ng role ni Edward who was dubbed as the most gorgeous guy that Bella had ever seen. Somehow, maraming goodlooking actors but none of them can be Edward Cullen. The good thing about the casting director of this film was that hindi siya nagpadala sa "goodlooking guy sells so he can be Edward Cullen" cliche.

Robert Pattinson for me is the perfect Edward Cullen because eventhough he's not that GOODLOOKING - drop dead gorgeous kind of guy, he exudes an enigmatic appeal to the audience. May charisma siya and when you look at him ng matagal sa big screen, you'll get that mushy feeling na he's perfect for the role. He's mysterious enough and at the same time he can be dangerous.

Imagine someone like Zac Efron, Gaspard Uliel or any other goodlooking young actors to play Edward Cullen...in one aspect they're all goodlooking but hindi sila ganon ka-mysterious tingnan and dangerous para magfit sa isang vampire. That's just my 2 cents.

So overall, I like the movie regardless of the bad reviews I've read. Cheesy lines - well part ng novel yon. It won't be Twilight kung wala yung mga lines na yon. Actors - well chosen, needs improvement sa acting or sa pagportray ng bawat roles nila but OKAY sila sa role.

The CULLENS - perfect.

Somehow itong movie na 'to, binigyan niya ng face yung mga characters na nasa book. Like what I've said hindi ko kasi vini-visualize ang characters sa mga actors when I read the books but now that I've watched the film may mga faces na sila sa mind ko. I LOVE IT.

For just less than 40 million dollars as a budget, they did great for this film. I didn't expect it to be REALLY GOOD because hindi naman malaki budget nila for this movie. We have to admit na kahit ganon, they did WELL.

However, I am hoping na for the 2nd installment of the saga sana they would write it really well. New Moon is the least favorite of mine sa SAGA partly because of Jacob Black's boring scenes. I hope they would make it more interesting on the 2nd one kasi it would be a total snooze if babawasan nila scenes ni Edward Cullen. Afterall, he's the reason why GIRLS (of all ages) screamed loudly sa mga cinemas.

I didn't scream (that's the truth) but my friend who I dragged along to watch this film in Baguio -- Squirmed and Screamed sa cinema along with the other girls. She hasn't even read the book yet. :D

Congratulations to TWILIGHT Movie Makers and Actors.

Happy Birthday Mama Jean!

2008-11-16T17:26:00.000+08:00

This is probably the most personal entry that I ever made.

The most personal because I've never been able to share my innermost sentiments regarding the most important person in my life - my late mother. The woman who I know so little about, who I barely remember yet I can feel in the deepest core of my heart - the LOVE that transcends time even memories.

I only spent the first 9 months in her womb and 4 years of my childhood with her BUT I never knew her really well. I was never given the chance to get to know my own mother. I was too young to understand her condition. I was too young to understand back then that she was dying. I was too young to know that I won't be spending my next 20, 30 or 60 years with her. I was just plain too young to know everything.

She died when I was 4 years old and I could hardly remember the times I spent with her. I can't remember everything about her except from the stories my relatives told me. My father rarely talks about her too. I only have a few pictures of her in my house. Her death changed the course of my life forever.

If I could, I would want to have the opportunity to get to know her. If I could ask God one thing, I would want him to turn back the time and let me experience a life with her. If I could wish hard enough for that to happen, I WOULD.

I always tell everybody that I don't live in regrets. I REALLY DON'T. I accepted every consequences of every actions that I made in the past. I don't wallow on it. I move on but deep down, I do have ONE REGRET - A REGRET that transcends any other REGRETS any person could ever have.

I REGRET THOSE TIMES WHERE I WAS TOO YOUNG TO UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING THAT WAS HAPPENING WITH HER. I REGRET BEING YOUNG THEN. IF I WAS ONLY OLD ENOUGH TO KNOW, TO CARE and TO UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING THEN, THINGS WOULD HAVE BEEN DIFFERENT.

I would have given the best CARE I can give for her.

I would have given the best LOVE anyone can possibly give to their loved ones.

I would have tried my best to show her how much she means to me.

I would have tried to make her laugh and not make her worry of her condition.

I would have made a lot of promises to her - AND KEEP IT UNTIL I GET OLD.

I would have tried my BEST in EVERY Challenges that life throws at me.

I WOULD HAVE BEEN A DIFFERENT DAUGHTER. A MUCH BETTER ONE FOR HER SAKE.

Unfortunately, I was too young to understand that she was leaving me then. I was too young to make those things happen. I was too young to comprehend everything. I was just plain too young and too innocent to understant death.

But now that I'm old enough to understand everything in my life, it still seems hard to accept that I can no longer experience good and tough times with her. I wanted to feel the nagging part of her, the "shouting match" that we could have had, the pieces of advice as I tackle the road of life, the encouragement in her voice when the whole world knocks me down, her smiles and proud moments on every good thing that I could have achieved, the get-togethers on weekends and those silly-mother-daughter-petty fights that I missed throughout the years.

I feel like I was robbed for that part of my life. I never knew her and I don't know how it feels like to have a mother beside you. I have a lot of aunts and a great grandmother. I will always be thankful for them but it would never make up for the loss of my mother. No one can ever replaced her.

Sometimes when I hear a mother-daughter fight from a family friend, a relative or in tv, I have this "uncontrollable urge" to slap the daughter right on her face. When I hear girls telling others how they hate their mothers for being such a nag about their life, I just want to hit them and make them feel the pain that I have for so long inside of me. I can't believe that they could say anything like that to their own mothers -- they have no idea HOW LUCKY THEY ARE.

They take for granted those things about their mothers - the love, attention and care that she gives eventhough sometimes some mothers overdo it. THOSE DAUGHTERS SHOULD BE THANKFUL THAT THEY STILL HAVE THEIR MOTHERS AROUND THEM TO SUPPORT, LOVE and CARE FOR THEM. Something that I don't have...that I never had.

Not having one is like living a life in HELL. I was 4 years old when my mother died. I never had that chance to get to know her. I grew up surviving my adolescent years on my own. I grew up experiencing the hardships of a teenager and of being an adult ALONE. My father, during those times was always working. I was with my relatives. My grandmother took care of me (THANK GOD and THANKS TO HER) but I WAS ALONE. Alone in every struggles that I faced for the past years. It was hell.

I had no one to share my emotional breakdowns with, no one to comfort me when I needed a shoulder to lean on because I was having so much problems with school and life. I was solving my own problems on my own. DEALING with everything on my own. It was a tough life. Even now, I am leading a tough life and I WISH THAT SHE'S HERE WITH ME.

I would have wanted to celebrate her birthday with me and I would have wanted to celebrate my birthday with her. We would probably go out and eat somewhere fancy or maybe take a weekend gateway somewhere. I would have probably leading a different life. A much better one than the one I am having now. I would have been a great daughter to her.

But I was never given that chance to be with her...

And others - those who still has their mothers in their life - they take them for granted. Totally unfair. If we could trade places, then I WILL just so they can experience how it feels to be someone like me. Someone who never been able to meet or share anything with her mother.

My most vivid memory of my late mom was on New Year's Eve of 1985. I was playing outside my grandparents house with firecrackers. I think it was a "watusi" and she was sitting on a couch just by the window watching me play. An afghan around her lap and she called me. She gave me a small green smurf toy. She told me to keep it. I was too young to understand then that keeping it means -- taking care of it until I get old because it would be her last present for me. I can't remember what happen to that toy.

My mom died 8 days after that. I thought she was just sleeping when I saw her in the coffin. I really wish until today that I SHOULD HAVE KEPT THAT TOY. If I only knew then, I would have treasured it for the rest of my life. That was the only memory I had with her - the only vivid memory I can remember. The one thing I don't want to forget because forgetting that moment means forgetting her forever.

My mom died on January 8, 1985. I was playing, just playing when she died. I slept, played, ate, cried and made her angry by being stubborn as a child while she lived. I did the same thing when she died. I was too young to understand everything.

I WAS THERE FOR HER DURING HER DARKEST HOURS BUT I WASN'T REALLY THERE FOR HER because I was too young....

My age - when she lived and died -- was my only REGRET in life and will only be my REGRET for the rest of my life.

I never knew how she suffered during times. I never knew how she lived her life. At that time, I simply didn't care about everything else because I was supposed not to care about it. All I ever knew then was to play around, be silly and be stubborn while she suffered and died.

BUT I LOVED HER SO VERY MUCH. I LOVE HER WITH ALL MY HEART. I WILL ALWAYS LOVE HER FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE.

For the mother I never knew -- I am what I am because of you. Not always a good thing but I will keep trying to make things right for myself. I will make you proud somehow.

HAPPY 54th BIRTHDAY MAMA JEAN. MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

Born: November 16, 1954

Died: January 8, 1985

My Almost-Not-So-Scary Halloween

2008-11-09T22:29:00.004+08:00

My last week of October was a really hectic one. I had to managed me time and money well to be able to handle everything accordingly.

My father and I celebrated his 60th birthday last October 28 at home. I bought his favorites and we talked nicely all throughout dinner. It was a priceless moment considering that we rarely talk things through without a single argument in the past. It was actually an achievement for the 2 of us.

On that same week, I gave my cousin Jiro some money to spend for his 7th birthday. It's not much but I wanted him to celebrate with some of his friends at their house so I gave his mom "food money." (pic - jiro and jackie)

I heard it went well. GOOD.

A few days before that, I went to do the grocery and buy some foods for me and my father. I also bought snacks for our 1-day stay at Manila Memorial Park.

My family used ALL SAINTS DAY as a reunion before. Everyone from my maternal side would gather at Manila Memorial Park in Paranaque to visit my late mom and tatay. I used to remember good memories every November 1st. We would wake up early in the morning and stay at MMP till dusk. I missed those days.

Now, we have a different kind of routine na. Everything changed since - well -- everything started changing itself. I don't know what that really means hehehe pero alam mo yung feeling na you don't know what went wrong in your life basta it just started changing na lang one day. From one small thing until it went bigger and bigger. Before you know it, everybody has their own life to live na and everyone's busy. November 1st is no longer a once a year reunion thing for the family. It became one of those months na you just have to visit your dead relatives because YOU MUST.

I feel sad about it but I know na there's nothing I can really do to make things stay the same. I just have to live with it and do what I must to make it memorable somehow even if it means na it's just me and my dad na lang.

Anyway, my dad and I for the past 3 years or so have been spending our Halloween in MMP. He doesn't like to go there during Nov.1 until Nov.2. According to him, he hates the crowd and the traffic. I'm all for it because I hate it too. So for the past 3 years, we've been going to MMP on the night of Oct.30 and we'll be staying there until the night of Oct.31 or sometimes early dawn of Nov.1. Basically, mga 1 day and a couple of hours kami sa MMP.

When Hana and Don were here sa Pinas, we used to go there together but since they're both working abroad, my father and I were the ones left na lang to go there.

Last Oct.30 - almost 12 midnight, we left Cavite and arrived in MMP Paranaque at 1 am of October 31st - Halloween. It was a normal thing except that this was the first time na we will be spending that day na kaming 2 lang. Eerie???... I know.

When we arrived at MMP, there were some people staying na rin doon. It's a private cemetery so it's pretty quiet and laid back compared sa public cemetery. My lolo and mama were buried at Eternal Gardens - by street kasi doon. I noticed some camping tents along our way sa street namin. When we got to Eternal Gardens, it was quiet and a little dark sa pinakadulo na street. There were no tents, no people except the little stall that Shakeys put sa pinakaside ng street. There were candles everywhere probably for those who visited their relatives earlier that night. We were alone in that street.

I didn't feel scared because I'm used to it but somehow the dark streets on the other side of the cemetery made me feel a little weird. There were 2 cars near ours and thankfully there was a newly installed streetlight on our street. It was situated opposite my mom's and tatay's lot. Somehow maliwanag sa part na yon.

I was helping my dad to unload our cooler and table then my father tried to start the van again so he could park it ng maayos. It won't start. My heart was beating like a hundred times per minute siguro at that time. I wasn't scared. I was worried because I don't want to worry about our stuff pag-uwi. I also don't want my father to be stressed about it because of his high blood condition.

At that same moment, we saw 2 guys passing our street so my father asked for their help. Thankfully, the 2 guys helped him push the van until nagstart siya. I was relieved but what happened next was something I wasn't prepared for.

My dad told me that he needs to bring the van back to our house and use his other car so we won't have to worry about car troubles the next day. I couldn't argue with him because I know na he's right. He won't let me drive the van at 1 am alone and I can't just say na I'll go with him since everything was set up na (the table, chairs, coolers, tent etc) sa place namin. I agreed but I had to admit na I was dead scared.

When he left me at 1 am in MMP, there were still 2 cars left but after 10 minutes those cars left. I was ALONE. Alone in a cemetery at 1 am. Technically, there were people scattered around MMP but if you've been there, the place is so huge. It's like living in a village with a lot of streets. My street, eternal gardens was one of the farthest street sa main gate. It was also one of the most quietest street that night because no one was there except me and the tiny Shakeys stall.

I decided to read TWILIGHT (good choice of book no? a vampire story and I'm reading it at 1 am sa cemetery pa). At first, I was so into reading that I hardly noticed my surrounding but when my eyes started to get hurt na don ko nafeel yung scary sensation of being alone. I don't want to look around because I don't want to see anything na scary in a cemetery. All I know that the street on my left side that night was one of the darkest places sa MMP. I decided to put my wallet and cellphone in my pocket just in case I need to run for something or someone. LOL. I was paranoid for something. I love watching zombie movies and it never really bothered me when I'm at home but that night everything came rushing back sa mind ko. It was like I was having an anxiety attack. Every scary images that I watched since way back kept flashing in my mind. I hate being scared especially if it's something so irrational.

That night, I didn't know what I really felt but I was anxious for my father to arrived or for any sign of life around me to pass by. I just want someone to walk by or drive around because it's better that way. It was so quiet kasi. It seemed funny now that I think about it because I know that a few blocks away may mga tao na. In those times however, I felt alone and scared.

The place is creepy at night. We have to admit na lahat ng cemetery creepy talaga. I wasn't prepared for that 2 hours alone in a cemetery. My father arrived 2 hours after that. I was somehow relieved. When he was there, it seems like everything na kinakatukatan ko that night when I was alone eh parang silly na nga.

It made me realized na no matter what I do, even if I think I'm old enough to be on my own, it really pays to be with someone you love. You feel secured no matter what. It's not just about being alone in a cemetery on Halloween but that night mas tiningnan ko yung situation in broad perspective. I'm really glad I wasn't totally alone in my life.

Hindi ako mabilis matakot na person but there were a few times in my life where I felt so scared talaga. This was probably one of them. Spending a night in a cemetery was not something I dreamed of doing. I can go to a cemetery in broad daylight but not around 1 am and spend 2 hours alone. The silence that time was defeaning. The darkest street on my left side was getting on my nerves because it was like watching zombie movies where mist started forming on that part and maybe later may naglalakad na don. NOT TO MENTION, I was so paranoid sa bad people na pwede ko ma-encounter that night. I was alone. Anything can happen and thank GOD nothing happened.

I asked for my mama and tatay's help that night. Somehow I was hoping na they would guard me no matter what happen.

My dad's car was such a HUGE BREATH OF FRESH AIR for me. It was like for the past 2 hours I was holding my breath talaga. I don't think I want that to happen again next year. Hopefully NOT.

When we got back to Cavite on late night of October 31st, every scary feeling that I had that same night disappeared. I feel in control of myself again. I even watched another zombie movie for the next few days. PARANOIA!

** On lighter note: I'm currently anxious to watch TWILIGHT next week - the same week of my BIRTHDAY. DAMN! I'm getting old na and by next week - yeah its official. Tsk...tsk...tsk...

** I am also excited for the trip that I will be having with 2 of my closest friends in college. Mariel, Dessa and I are all excited for our CEBU TRIP! I can't wait!

OH AND MY ALMOST NOT SO SCARY HALLOWEEN had its aftershock pa pala, when my dad arrived that night, he told me na yung lot, a few feet away sa mom ko somehow was moved. Yung pinaka cover ng patay don was pinatong lang. Nakaangat siya sa lupa. Meaning I was alone next to an open/damaged lot na may patay. I didnt see it because I was busy looking on my left side which was the dark street, not knowing na yung right side ko pala - a few feet from me nakaangat yung marble niya sa lupa. Thank GOD I noticed it the same time that he did or else If I was alone and saw that nakaangat yung marble finish nung kabilang lot - I'll definitely FREAK OUT!

** I didn't take those cemetery pictures above.

FUZZY, MUZZY, BLURRY

2008-10-19T00:06:00.005+08:00

If I can give words to describe my past 2 weeks, I would probably say FUZZY, MUZZY, BLURRY!!!

Last Week, I went to China Bank ATM Machine at a certain mall to withdraw my money and buy something important. Everything went well but then the ATM Machine didn't dispense the money that I need.

Worse -- China Bank deducted it in my current balance.

WORST -- I tried to clear everything out at China Bank and they told me that I have to wait for 2 weeks before they can return my atm balance. I went ballistic.

I was penniless for a week.

The card that I'm using belongs to a classmate/friend of mine way back in college. I'm so lazy to apply for my own atm that I borrowed hers for almost a year now LOL. Good thing she's not using it anymore and she's nice enough to let me use it for quite sometime now. My problem nga lang is when something happen sa card - I need to contact her so she can settle everything for me. LOL

Actually, I don't blame yung bank but I just got disappointed because it took them a week to return my actual balance sa card. To think -- machines na yon. They told us na there's a long process to be followed -- etc. etc. etc. -- Damn! too much for the convenience thing (as what they said sa mga brochures nila inside the bank) huh? If that's the case then I guess sana lahat nagpassbook na lang.

For a week, I had to think of something else just to be able to handle my finances. FUZZY, MUZZY, BLURRY -- I'm not sure how I was able to surpassed it. Good thing my tita helped me and after a week they finally returned my atm balance. I can now BREATHE...

When I came home to my father, I did the grocery at Robinson and I was able to buy TWILIGHT hardcover. It was their last copy and thank God I got that last one. At least, yung difficult week ko may kapalit na good news. TWILIGHT book is a good news, for me. :D -- Oh my Edward Cullen...

This morning naman, Noodles and I went to SM Bacoor to hang out. It was the first time since God knows when. We hang out naman but mostly sa house niya since she can't really go anywhere. However, kanina we went out and reminisced the good ol' days. It was like LaSalle College Days Again.

We ate at one of our favorite fast food chain -- KFC. We talked about a lot of things. We window shopped and we bought some clothes and personal stuff. We watched a movie din. We picked MIRRORS starring Keifer Sutherland. It was a random choice. We really never planned it basta kung ano na lang maganda.

It was okay for a psycho-thriller-horror film. I made a little research and I found out that it was based from a South Korean Horror Flick. The film was okay. We sort of tried to understand it kasi it had that weird ending just like those psycho-thriller films. So we sort of analyzed muna what happened sa movie. It wasn't scary - not the spine jolting kind of film pero the sound effect will make you jump off your seats.

Noodles was literally jumping off her seat and so was I. We were the first one inside the cinema so it was a bit eerie. Good movie siya as long as you have someone to hold on beside you. I could rate it 3 out of 5 siguro. Hmm... I was sort of paranoid pag uwi ko sa mga mirrors sa bahay LOL but then nawala din. I guess it wasn't that scary enough para mag-iwan ng lasting impression.
THANK GOD!

About Amazing Race Asia Season 3...

I have my own speculation (tama ba yon?)

Well in my own opinion, I think the FINAL 3 would be: Geoff and Tisha (biased ako eh), AD and Fuzzie (I have my reasons) and Henry and Bernie (again I have my reasons).

I'm not sure if they'll be the final 3 but I have a feeling na sila. Some says it would be Sam and Vine instead of AD and Fuzzie but we'll see. I did some research and some analyzation until I came up with these final 3 teams. I think Ida and Tannia will be eliminated next the followed by Sam and Vince. NOT SURE THOUGH... just as I said ... sariling conclusion ko lang yon.

Anyway, I like all the teams naman so whoever makes it sa top 3 then CONGRATULATIONS.

On the weird side, I was watching Kid Nation on Cable and I enjoyed it. WEIRD? Maybe not, but if you're 27 years old then I THINK IT'S WEIRD.

The Five Men

2008-10-06T15:36:00.002+08:00

I shared these thoughts to two persons since last night and I guess I owe it myself to share it with the rest of my friends.

Since last night, I had this idea that in a woman's life, there are five men who will leave you bittersweet memories. And after last night, I know I met one of them.

1. The one who got away.

The one who got away might be an acquiantance, a friend's friend, someone you've met over a family or organizational gathering. You exchanged phone numbers, email addressess, all that sort of basic stuff when you meet someone for the first time. You might have been given the chance to spend a few hours together, and yet, there where still no sparks. You bid goodbye to each other, and a day or two after he left, you realize he is the one. Just by how he looks at you, how he listens to every word you're saying. Problem is, there is no way you'd get to see him again in the near future because he lives in Timbuktu. Good luck. The one definitely got away.

2. The one you could have had.

This one is picture perfect. You like him, he likes you. You know just by looking at each other that you'd want to be with that person. Unfortunately, he's the boyfriend of your bestfriend, or the best friend of your boyfriend. Worse, he's already married. And when the time comes when both of you are already free, either you're already in Timbuktu or he's on his way to priesthood. Damn.

3. The one you will never have.

You're on your way home, waiting for a ride. You look around, not expecting for anything, when all of a sudden, BAM! You lock gazes with your ideal guy. 5'10" in height, well-built physique, mysterious eyes...the works. You wish you could just grab him and ask him to marry you. Unfortunately, you're holding somebody else's hand (obviously, your boyfriend). And there's no possible way that you guys will ever meet again. Unless of course, you have someone in NBI who could help you out for your search. Again, Goodluck.

4. The one who was never meant to be.

You're already talking about baby names. You went out a lot of times, met each other's families, spent your nth anniversary. Suddenly, you both fell out of love. End of story.

5. The one you lost.

Either he fell out of love, or you let him go. Or, he decided he loved someone from Timbuktu. (*sigh)

Why am I saying all this stuff? Because last night, I saw the one I will never have.

** Credits to Zash for this funny realization.

Another Typical Boring Day

2008-10-03T22:27:00.000+08:00

It's a typical day nothing special. I'm getting tired of this routine talaga. It's kinda slow. I also hate the weather. Yesterday it was windy and cold but when I woke up this morning -- ahh suppperr hot nanaman. I'll get sick talaga pagganito.
Anyway, I decided to cook dinner kanina and it was okay. I'm getting used to the "cooking thing" and somehow I'm learning a lot of stuff everyday. I cooked "Giniling" or Ground beef with potato and tomato sauce. It's quite yummy.

My father even asked me a while ago to cook for tomorrow kasi baka may visitor siya. I'm sort of busy thinking what to cook for them. I have been collecting recipes and as of the moment I'm browsing all of it. Maybe I'll stick to the veggies kasi baka hindi meat lovers yung visitor.

Anyway, I recieved a couple of days ago my Ebooks of Twilight, New Moon and Eclipse from my friend Michel. I'm so happy talaga and thankful because somehow I won't be raiding the bookstores every week just for these books. I'll still buy them because I want them to be a part of my mini library book collection. I'm just so excited to read everything kaya I wanted those ebooks as soon as possible. THANKS MICHEL.

I finished reading the 3 - imagine that? hehehe...

I'm reading Breaking Dawn (my own copy) again so I can recall the story. I bought the book a week ago. I like this book because somehow BELLA stopped acting childish and hindi na siya flirty in some ways. Sorry Bella Lovers... I'm just not into her sa book 2 and 3. I got irritated reading those 2 books because she keeps juggling Edward and Jacob in her life.

In Twilight (ebook), I like the story. It's a good book although for me mejo teeny bopper na siya but I still like it. I would wait for MIDNIGHT SUN sa bookstore because I think it would be a much better book compared to TWILIGHT since it will be on Edward Cullen's point of view. I read the partial draft (12 chapters) and I enjoyed it a lot. I just hope that Stephenie Meyer would also try to write Breaking Dawn - in Edward Cullen's point of view kasi that's one of the most important story sa saga and I got disappointed because it was on Bella and Jacob's perspectives. I'm not interested sa iniisip nila maybe because Bella is a girl and I know how a girl would react na sa situations niya. Jacob is the 3rd party and I don't want his side of story because he just keeps on moping about Bella.
In my opinion, I think the book should have been in Edward Cullen's point of view kasi he's the vampire. He's the mysterious one sa lahat ng characters. I would want to know his thoughts in every situation. I really do hope Stephenie Meyer would retell the SAGA in Edward Cullen's perspective. (PLEASE GOD!) :D

In New Moon (ebook), hmmm....I can understand the depression thing about Bella. I understand her feelings but I didn't like the Jacob part. Half kasi ng book puro kay Jacob. I didn't like it. I was so eager to reach the last part of the story para lang mabasa ko na again si Edward Cullen LOL.

In Eclipse (ebook), I love the story but honestly after reading this book, I started hating BELLA SWAN hehehe. She's juggling those 2 poor boys. She's inviting temptations to make it complicated. She's going to beg Edward not to leave her pero tumatakas siya papunta kay Jacob. She's giving Jacob mixed signals.She's hurting both Jacob Black and Edward Cullen. Both guys sacrificed a lot just for her. They both changed just to understand her so it kinda sucked. I don't think she deserves any of those 2 guys sa book 3. I feel bad talaga after reading it. Edward Cullen loves her more than she loves him. Jacob Black loves her more than she loves him din. Tsk, Tsk. Tsk.

Good thing nakabawi siya sa Book 4. I thought I would hate her forever LOL.
About the movie (movie script)...well I can't wait for it. I know na there will be a lot of changes.

At least, I'm well informed about this hehehe... Thanks to the movie script, may idea na ako about how the movie will go. It won't be a "copycat" ng book. There will be changes and I'm pretty sure a lot of Twilight fanatics would react on it but the author gave her permission for that. She wanted those changes as well.

'nuff about Twilight Saga and Edward Cullen... hehehe...

I miss driving around. Stupid weather...I can't do anything because of it!

I also watched Amazing Race Asia 3 last night. So far my 2 favorite teams are still in the race. Geoff may be a schmuck but I have to admit that he's making the show more interesting. He's the villain of TARA 3. Good thing his gf - TISHA - is nice. I'm still hopeful though. I hope they will win.

Henry and Bernie is still also in the race. I love them. They're competitive minus the Geoff attitude hehehe.

As for the other racers, AD and Fuzzie (hmm...they're great but I'm not a fan), Ida and Tannia (I'm starting to LOVE them), Vince and Sam (uhh...not really a threat), Mai and Oliver (I like Oliver - you can tell how much he wants to win the race. Not much into Mai - I don't like primadonna's).

The father-son team from India - I didn't like them because of their bickerings.

Haaay...boring day...

Walking Zombie

2008-10-01T03:54:00.003+08:00

I'm officially a walking zombie.

Honestly, I have no idea how I spent my SEPTEMBER '08. no...scratch that...
I actually have an idea on why my September 2008 was a walking zombie month for me. I got hooked with the Edward Cullen thing and TWILIGHT that I spent my entire month googling and watching youtube. I sometimes doubt my sanity...

I went to bookstores week after week just to look for Stephenie Meyer's books. I got disappointed a lot of times. But last week, I got lucky. My father accompanied me to Robinson and I bought BREAKING DAWN. I read it the same night...probably around 10pm and finished it around 4 am (that was how much I wanted to finish the book).

The following days -- I spent my time reading the partial draft of MIDNIGHT SUN (12 Chapters). Bitin but I love this version of the first book. Midnight Sun retells the story of TWILIGHT but in Edward Cullen's POV which is what I preferred reading.

I haven't read TWILIGHT yet but after reading Midnight Sun -- I can't wait for the book. I think Stephenie should create another book from her Saga -- say, Breaking Dawn in Edward Cullen's POV. (just a thought...you never know)

Reading it from Bella and Jacob's POV kinda sucked. I would rather hear Edward's personal thoughts regarding the whole story. He's the main man. He's the reason why TWILIGHT SAGA became such a hit now.

Since I don't have TWILIGHT, ECLIPSE and NEW MOON yet, I based most of my readings in some affiliated websites of Stephenie Meyer. TWILIGHT SAGA WIKI had this great plot summary chapter by chapter of each book. (see how desperate I am...)

I spent my time reading those over and over. I actually know the story from start to finish because of it. You can even quiz me on BREAKING DAWN because I read it for the nth time already. It's kinda funny because I've never been so addicted like this before on any book. I read HARRY POTTER books but not as often as the TWILIGHT SAGA. I don't know why.

Aside from that, I met someone online who had the TWILIGHT MOVIE SCRIPT. He gave it to me and I finished reading it 2 days ago. Hindi pa napapalabas yung TWILIGHT but I already know how the movie version will go. There are some changes but if the director is good then maybe it would come out great. They cut a lot of scenes (mostly minor stuff) and changed some story line maybe to make it more interesting. Common naman yon in most Hollywood movies, hindi lahat copy na copy ng book. (oh yeah, if you want the script version of TWILIGHT movie then HOLLER...)

At least now I'm prepared to accept na if the movie version is not that good then I'm still happy because the books are all great. I think the movie will be good but not that great. Then again who knows...I'm not expert pagdating sa mga ganyan. I just based it sa script.

Then just yesterday, I went out again and looked for some Stephenie Meyer books. Unfortunately, everything is out of stock. I felt bad when I came home last night. BUT, by some miracle, MICHEL, a friend of mine will give me his EBOOKS of the 3 remaining TWILIGHT SAGA by tomorrow. (I'm SOOOO HAPPY!). I can't believe it when he told me (a few hours ago) that he'll give it to me. I was like -- WOW! -- REALLY?! ... I'm still planning to buy the 3 books but I want to read it na rin.

I didn't get much sleep this September. I was a walking zombie from day 1 to day 30. I almost forgot my stepsister's bday, sim's bday, michel's bday, dessa's bday and jon's bday. I think all I did was READ, LURKED and WATCHED every books, website, trailers of TWILIGHT. Kinda pathetic actually ... I still have a hard time believing na OCTOBER na.

Some Minor Details last September:

- I didn't drive much this month. I don't feel like driving maybe because of the bad weather. I also didn't get much sleep all the time so I tried to avoid driving as much as a possible

- Tito R saw Bjourn in SM minutes after my Tito saw me. I didn't see him. I was busy buying stuff at the grocery section. He said he lost a lot of weight - then good for him.

- I paid for my cousins field trip and thank God they were home safe kasi pangit ang weather that day. They went to a farm in Batangas.

- I gave SIM a present, a birthday celebration just to make bawi. I talked to his parents and siblings.

- I found out that an old friend of mine has Hepatitis B. He's still not sure how he got it but there's a 80% chance that he got it from his last "partner" and I don't know if it's contagious yet. I feel sorry for him because he's having a lot of problems these past few years. He even borrowed money from me just to get by. He has a 3 year old son. He's still not sure if he has it na rin. (tsk, tsk, tsk -- men and their one night stand adventures nga naman...)

- Dessa, a college friend of mine, invited me this coming Saturday to go out with her and celebrate her post birthday party - maybe a lunch together or a dinner. Unfortunately, I couldn't go. I won't be doing anything here at home but I need to stay.

- I got curious this month when a cousin of mine -- NIKKI - erased her MYSPACE and FRIENDSTER account. I just looked at it a couple of weeks ago for some update in her life and I found out that she deleted all her accounts. Could be a LOVE TROUBLE or a FAMILY TROUBLE....who knows....Zash told me a lot of interesting stuff about our relatives in US.

- I've been cooking a lot last September -- AS IN A LOT! -- I feel comfortable now sa kitchen and most of the foods that I prepared were good naman. My father's nephew (his side of the family) even saw me cooking and he was shocked.

- OPINION: AMAZING RACE ASIA: I feel bad that my favorite team - GEOFF and TISHA are the most hated team this season. Geoff was really rude and I don't blame the others if they hate him. I hope he'll try to smooth things over because he's putting a lot of not-so-good impression on both of them. They're the only Philippine Team in TARA 3. He's not annoying as the MAGNUM PI but he sure is a HOT HEADED GUY. He kinda reminds me of LAURA and her partner in TARA 1. Tisha is great girl. I hope he knows that and he should try his best to control his temper because I don't want to hate the only Philippine Team this season. On the other hand, I feel happy that 2 of my favorite teams -- TISHA and GEOFF/ HENRY and BERNIE are doing well in race. I really have a weird feeling na it's gonna be a girl/boy tandem this season (then again I could be wrong). Oh and I hate MAI but I like OLIVER (they kinda remind me of Zach and Flo in TAR 3 where Zach did all the work but he split the prize money with Flo who did nothing but flirt with the other teams). I don't think MAI belongs to TARA. Oliver is doing all the work. I feel bad for him. He should have asked to switch partners with the other Thailand Team since the other girl was so irritating. She kept on saying "I didn't sign up for this" -- good thing she's out of the competition because I couldn't stand another episode of TARA 3 with her in it.

- As for my future goals, everything is planned out but plan pa rin lang siya. I'm still motivating myself to do everything before the year ends.

So far yan lang nangyari sa akin last September. Most of it napunta kay Edward Cullen. This October, however, I have some important plans to prioritize. Hopefully everything goes well this month. I don't think I can handle another WALKING ZOMBIE month. I NEED A LOT OF GOODNIGHT SLEEP.

** BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY: JON (Glendale US), DESSA (14), TITA BETH (16), MICHEL (19), SIM (26) and HANA (30).

Movie Tease: TWILIGHT

2008-09-19T23:24:00.003+08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4bUHUwJWtM

This is just a personal made teaser of the film Twilight

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdSkxEgJhzg

This is the OFFICIAL MOVIE TRAILER from MTV

Watch this TWILIGHT TEASER. I love it!

A certain engagedtopatd made this trailer and I love it eventhough she added some extras (scenes from other movies) in it. I love the songs that she put in this trailer.

I was a little worried about Rob Pattinson playing the role of Edward Cullen before. After watching this trailer, there's no doubt that the role suits him. He looks great and dangerous in every scenes in this trailer. There's no trace of Cedric Diggory from HPaGoF in this film. He made it his own. I can somehow picture out Edward Cullen because of him. It's a good thing that Anne Fletcher directed this film, pagguy kasi baka maging macho film. (crossfingers -- sana magandan yung movie)

Oh and check out 1:58 - Rob Pattinson looks HOT!

Wala na...Bumalik na ako sa pagiging silly HS girl because of him (LOL)

I met someone na TEAM JACOB BLACK so I'm taking sides na rin...

TEAM EDWARD CULLEN all the way!

Can't wait for this film.

Oh MY!!!! SPOILERS

2008-09-06T14:11:00.008+08:00

I'm excited for a lot of reasons. I googled last week and found out a lot of interesting things particularly about my favorite reality show - THE AMAZING RACE US and ASIA.

I'm an avid fan of this reality show. I've been watching it religiously since Frank and Margarita (my first favorite team in TAR). Last year, I was somehow disappointed that Marc and Rovilson didn't win the Amazing Race Asia 2. In my opinion, they deserve to win because they put up a lot of effort and good sportmanship in that show. Amazing Race started a long time ago but it only became a hit to Filipinos when Marc and Rovilson entered the competition.

There were a lot of haters for the MAGNUM PI (Marc and Rovilson). Honestly, I don't really care because eventhough they were annoying at times, they were very entertaining to watch. I'm proud of them because they were representing my country in that show. I don't care if the others say a lot of bad stuff about this team. I'm proud of them. I'll still stand by to what I said about them here in my blog -- they would give the US teams a run for their money. They're the typical alpha male teams and I can't wait to see them in any other TARA or TAR special edition.

Anyway, I just found out that Amazing Race Asia Season 3 is starting next week (Sept.11). I'm EXCITED! I love watching this because it's not your typical SURVIVOR or BIG BROTHER type of reality show. It's about adrenaline rush, beautiful places, teamwork and quick thinking.

In this season, the Philippines has only 1 representive which is kind of unfair but that's okay. I'm hoping that this team would make history for this season. Our representative would be TISHA SILANG (a former Bb.Pilipinas turned business mogul) and Geoff Rodriguez (a former powerboys member - you know the Rexona commercial guys dancing in towels). I heard they're good friends with Marc and Rovilson. I hope these 2 would make a great team for our country. Biased ako eh -- I'm proud to be PINOY. They're also the only "dating couple" in this season. I hope they won't be the next TERRI and HENRI of TARA 2. No bickerings please.

I really have this great feeling na TISHA and GEOFF will WIN if not then I hope they would do a good job in representing our country. I have this weird feeling na it's going to be a GIRL-BOY tandem who will take the prize money this season. So I'm hoping it's gonna be TISHA and GEOFF.I'm also rooting for another team -- HENRY and BERNIE (brother and sister from Malaysia). I'm not sure if they're going to be the next VILLAIN for this season but based from the TEAM REVEALED episode - They're a force to reckon with.

SPOILERS ALERT: There's a speculation from a certain JONLOVER (check out his site or details) that TISHA AND GEOFF WON but that's not 100% sure. We'll just have to watch the whole season to know. But if Tisha and Geoff are really the winners then WOW! ANG GALING NG PINOY!

Anyway, next week AXN will aired their first race. I can't wait for that day!

Another thing that's been making me feel all excited is the bestseller book based and soon to be movie - TWILIGHT by Stephanie Meyer. I haven't read the book but I already liked the story. I checked the website of the author and got a glimpse with the book series. I'm excited. I LOVE THE STORY. I love Bella and Edward. I LOVE THE CULLENS. I hope this is going to be the NEXT HARRY POTTER. The question is -- HOW GOOD WILL THE MOVIE BE? because somehow I got disappointed na rin witha lot of good book stories na ginawang movies. The movies didn't live up to the book like yung sa BLOOD and CHOCOLATE (which by the way, is where LOBO (filipino teleserye) was based from, I THINK), The DaVinci Code (it sucks! I love the book version) etc.

Hopefully this movie will be a good one talaga. I'm going to buy the book before the movie release on December of this year or maybe early next year. From what I found out, the lead actors from twilight will be ROBERT PATTINSON (Cedric Diggory from Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire - he will be playing EDWARD CULLEN) and KRISTEN STEWART (from the movie The Panic ROOM).

A brief summary for the story: It's about a family of vampires (the CULLENS) in this century, a vampire name EDWARD CULLEN falling in love with BELLA (mortal). Their life together as they tried to fight for their love - with matching love triangle sa isang werewolf. From High School until magkaron sila ng anak. Maraming series yung book na 'to so we will see yung pag-evolve ng characters nila just like in Harry Potter.

I'm really excited to buy the book and to watch the movie. Sana it's going be good. For more details regarding the 1st BOOK (TWILIGHT) visit the site of Stephanie Meyer
I'm so EXCITED!
ANYWAY, nuff about this nonsense and kababawan (LOL) :D balik na ko sa real life ko hehehe...
BELATED HAPPY BDAY JON!!!!

Movie Review: For The First Time

2008-09-04T16:40:00.005+08:00

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Setting of the movie = beautiful. Acting = good. The actors are all good looking. The story is simple yet very touching.

I'm not a fan of tagalog romantic movies. Why? kasi they're very cheesy lalo na yung mga romantic comedy films - very repetitive yung story line. Rich boy meets poor girl or vice versa tapos in between may mga cheesy dialogues.

Haayy...no offense don sa mga fans ng ganon na movies. A Very Special love is a good example of that. I heard nakakatuwa daw yung film but IMHO - not my kind of film.

In this film, however, natuwa ako in a sense na we can produce a romantic-comedy film a hindi masyado cheesy yung mga lines. The story is very simple. It's not that complicated to understand yung situation ng characters because kahit sino makakarelate don. In a way, the topic is about family, high expectations, father-daughter relationship, boyfriend issues and nasty rumors. Wala ngang kontrabida yung film and hindi na rin kailangan kasi hindi naman lahat sa buhay ng isang tao merong bad people. May mga certain person lang na hindi maiiwasan ang "gap" or misunderstandings which is something na I can relate to.

My Tita G is an avid "Sharonian" so talagang gusto niya mapanood yung movie na 'to. Ako naman, I got curious with Santorini, Greece because parang ang ganda ng setting nila sa movie trailer. We planned to watch this film weeks before its scheduled release sa mga movie theaters. Natawa nga ako sa last scene because I thought umaarte si KC kay Richard and sa family niya. My first impression was why ganon ang acting niya parang tumutula and OA but then I realized na sinadya pala talaga niya yon to introduce herself sa family ni Richard. Don ko kasi naabutan yung movie kaya nagulat ako but then once you watched it ng buo, you'll see yung kinaganda ng story.

I love it. For my very picky taste sa mga movies, I like this one. Simple but very touching. This would be a good collection ng DVD sa bahay because the story is very timeless (at least for me).

I guess mas ma-eenjoy 'to ng mga 25y/o and above na girls because mas matured yung story and hindi naman over-the-top yung pagiging dramatic niya. Light lang but not cheesy. Just right for my taste.

As for KC and Richard, I like yung chemistry nila. KC is beautiful in every scene niya. Si Richard, di ko siya gusto before but in this film with KC, he looks good. Bagay sila and gusto ko na siya (LOL)

Chef-Chefan (LOL)

2008-08-26T21:59:00.003+08:00

Ako ay isang dakilang CHEF na LOL... (in my dreams)

Move over Rachael Ray! Here comes CHEF-CHEFAN...(me)

Kababawan but sobrang happy lang ako because I was able to finally cook something decent for my father. I love watching LifeStyle Channel and I'm an avid fan of Giada de Laurentiis and Ina Garten. I love food and I love cooking but sadly very elementary ang alam ko na lutuin.

I can fry anything but hanggang don lang. Until recently, since I have a lot of free time I decided to whip up something that I read and watched sa TV. SO FAR SUCCCESS! YES!

I remember way back that the first food na I ever cooked, as in ako lahat was Fettuccine Alfredo (mapangahas di ba? ang tindi agad ng unang niluto hehehe.) I was able to cook it. Edible naman sya LOL...pero It wasn't as delicious as I thought it would be.

Frustrated CHEF din kasi ako. I admire for how many years my MAMA V kasi she's a good cook. She can cook anything and it would taste good. I tried helping her but it was hard because she won't let me do the hard part. Gusto niya manood lang eh ako gusto ko hands on hehehe.

Anyway, since its just me and my dad now sa house then I decided to cook something good. I'm tired of eating canned goods. I checked my old tatty recipe notebook and found out na mejo outdated na yung iba don because most of it were collections of recipes na di ko naman naluto.
I went online and registered myself to some well known cooking recipe website and VOILA!...nasapian ata ako ng cooking angels sa cooking world at lumakas ang loob ko magluto again.

I can cook naman pero puro fried dishes lang. I want to learn more pa kaya din siguro nagtry ako. I'm so happy talaga! Shallow but accomplishment siya sa part ko!

Since my father used to live sa ibang country, nasanay siya na kinakain mashed potatoes, steak or any international cuisines. So now na he'll be staying here for good hinahanap niya yung filipino foods. I'm not a good cook and very limited ang knowledge ko about that. That's the reason why I tried my best to learn more pa.

Last weekend, I cooked him Chopsuey and It was a success! He loves it, naubos niya talaga! I'm proud of it kasi hindi siya chopsuey na galing sa cookbook. It was my own version. I made it my own kasi pinagsama sama ko yung ibang ways on how to cook it. When I googled it online, marami kasing version so nagdecide ako na ibahin ng konti. SUCCESS!

Then the next day, I decided to cooked "GINILING in TOMATO SAUCE" - I don't know if some of you know this food pero ako favorite ko 'to since when I was in St.Paul College. Ulam ko yan during lunchtime and masarap magluto si MAMA V and TITO R niyan.

I also have my own version, very different from the other recipes kasi hindi nanaman ako sumunod sa usual niya. THANK GOD IT CAME OUT OKAY! NASARAPAN DIN NAMAN SI PAPA. I even added hard boiled eggs to make it little scrumptious. I was worried na it would taste bad and he might get mad kasi madaming masasayang hehehe...good thing YUMMY siya!

Then during the weekend, I cooked him Ampalaya with Egg and Ginataang Adobong Gulay hehehe...So far okay siya wala naman palpak. I just need to make a little adjustments sa mga ingredients.

I'm so HAPPY! I need to plan my next menu sa house...haaayyy
Please give me a pat on my back for a job well done...(LOL)

I've been TAGGED by MAY AQUINO! Hehehe...

2008-08-25T21:12:00.002+08:00

Okay...this is funny because like my blog buddy MAY, I have no idea what TAG means in the BLOGWORLD LOL.

Funny no? I've been blogging for several months and I don't even have a clue about some stuff regarding it. Kasi naman...like what I've said before I'm a boring blogger. I just blog about my innermost thoughts, not minding the whole crazy side of Blog-a-mania.

Anyway, thank you MAY AQUINO for the TAG. Natouch ako hehehe. Seriously...I still don't know what the hell it means pero THANK YOU. I'm just gonna follow what you did na lang sa blog mo hehehe...

Randomly select 8 bloggers. Publish this tag as a post in your blog and tag 8 other bloggers by simply adding them on to the list. (Do not replace, just keep on adding! Yes let’s hope a long list!) It’s real easy! Tag others and see your Technorati Authority increase exponentially! And what are the benefits of Viral Linking?* One of the fastest ways to see your Technorati Authority explode!;* Increase your Google PageRank fast;* Attract large volume of new traffic to your site.* Build your community*

Make new friends!And these are the people who already took part on this tag:Reyna Elena, Bluep, Kotsengkuba, Jojitah, Pusa, Malen, YoungCanCook, Chuva, Kengkay, Divaness, Maru, Ate Melai, Anna, Mylene, Dhez, Ron, Ruthie, May, Bloom, Utakmunggo, Jaja, Pajay, Anabanana, Pishnge, Prinsesa000, Roxy, Ej, Myk2ts, Bino, Roland, Rok, Umma, BruisedButterfly, Quiche Lorraine, Joy Burlinson, Fab And Furious, EYEBAGS, Zashie, RJ, May(twice na!),

** I'm not sure if okay lang kung ulitin ko yung syo MAY, like what I said -- I'm new to this as well hehehe...but just to show my appreciation twice na name mo sa tag list hehehe.

My Favorite Noodles

2008-08-23T00:35:00.002+08:00

Noodles (noun) - A narrow, ribbonlike strip of dried dough, usually made of flour, eggs, and water.

Everybody loves noodles. I do but I'm not going to talk about that here...

Instead...I'm going to talk about my bestfriend NOODLES.

We've been friends for almost 10 years. We don't hang out as often as we used to but we're still good friends. She's still my "bestest friend"

She was diagnosed of a breast cancer last March 2008 and by midsummer, it became a liver metastatic disease. I blogged that about here. She's been in chemotherapy for the past months and I tried to hang out with her as often as I could.

Before her last chemotherapy, she asked me to look for a vacation spot. She needs to unwind before her evaluation in chemotherapy and It took me the whole night to surf the web for the best possible places.

I haven't heard from her since then because I became busy with some family issues. Just today, I received an email from her (funny...we emailed each other eventhough she lives near my place).

This was what she said:

I'm done with my evaluation after 6 session of
chemotherapy.

In CT Scan: there's marked decrease in the
nodule/masses in the liver (good news yon) But there's a noted mixed blastic and
lytic changes in the left iliac bone likely due to metastasis. So I need to
undergo Bone Scan.

In Bone Scan: Bone metastases in the sacroiliac
areas and medial posterior left iliac wing. Yon! I just found out about it
yesterday.

Sabi ng doctor tuloy ang chemo and observe yung
bone metastasis. Hmm..di ko pa alam how/what to feel...di pa din ata nagsisink
in ang mga bagay bagay.

Yun po... I miss
you.
END

Mixed emotion kasi may good news but then may bad news. I know we should stay positive and yon ang advice ko sa kanya. I've been praying for her health and I wish na maging okay na siya. She deserves to enjoy life. She's too young para sa mga ganyan. I know she's tough and somehow makakaya niya ma-overcome lahat. I just hope na she'll always stay positive because dapat yung strength niya should come from within para makaya niya lahat.

Best friends nga kami because I was diagnosed of a benign tumor din a couple of years ago. I don't know if it's going to come back...hope not but in this life...you can never tell.

I hope to spend some time with her this coming weeks. I told her about a family friend who offered their house in Tagaytay for a week sa amin. She can stay there and reminisce the old times.

Anyway, I had a dull day. Papa and I went to pay the bills and I drove around our place. I cooked "Turon" or "Fried Banana in Spring Roll" - YUM! My papa loves it. Inubos nga niya. It was my first time to cooked that. I also cooked our lunch - yummy chopsuey - my own version hehehe...

So far, mas okay relationship namin pagkami lang dalawa but may setbacks din kasi hindi maiiwasan yung lungkot. Good thing we have 6 dogs sa house so busy siya laruin mga yon.

Oh and a friend of mine, texted me kanina - Wala lang -- Kilig lang :D

C'est La Vie

2008-08-21T03:26:00.003+08:00

I went to the mall today to visit my optometrist. My father drove me to Executive and it only took me 5 minutes to purchased my brand new contact lens. I already have a record at their store, all I need to do is to show them my last receipt which was 4 months ago and TADA! - I have my brand new contact lens!!! At least now, nakikita ko na both ng malinaw paligid ko!

I suffered for a day na the other eye was sobrang blurred. Mind you, I have a 700-750 vision. I should take laser eye surgery...hmm...

Anyway, after that my father and I went to the grocery section. I'm a very picky eater. I don't eat fish basta basta unless it's a can of century tuna or the boneless fish that my Tito R buys in Dagupan, Pangasinan. A trip down the meat section, poultry and canned goods are the most important thing for me pagnasa grocery section.

'nuff reason to say na I'm gaining weight..(haaay...)

I'm not a gym buff but I know I need to hang out there for quite some time - that is...If I want to slim down a little hehehe... What I'm not sure...is kung mag-eenjoy ako sa ganong setting. I'm not really into exercise, as in gym exercise or routine. I prefer sports. When I was with an old friend, we used to play tennis at Island Cove. I would like to try that again. The problem is -- I don't have anyone to play with. Alangan naman ako lang di ba?....And ayoko din naman ng someone na mas magaling pa sa akin dahil baka maging taga-pulot lang ako ng tennis balls and mas lalong ayoko naman na ako pa yung marunong sa kanya because baka puro service na lang ang mangyari sa game. (think!think!think!)

So back to the grocery section -- I was shocked to see how expensive some of the goods now. I love going to the grocery section and in my family, in most times, I do the groceries. Before, yung cart ko usually full pagdating sa cashier. Now, I'm just halfway through the aisles of grocery section, iniisip ko na how much na lahat. My cart wasn't even full pero pagdating sa cashier...WAAHHH...lumalaki eyes ko everytime nakikita ko na tumataas yung bill. WOW!

I even heard this conversation from a mother and a child a while ago:

LITTLE BOY: Mama, bili tayo cereal tapos may milk tulad
nung dati.
MOM: Wag na anak, mahal yon, o' eto chippy na lang bilhin
mo.

Hmm...asan na yung nutritonal value na dapat important na binibigay sa mga kids now? I guess, since everything is sooo expensive here, most parents rely na lang sa kaya nila na food. Nutritional value is not important anymore in everyday meal. The important thing now is that everything should be within your budget.

Here's another one:

WIFE: bi (maybe short for baby or something)...kuha ka ng
sabon panlaba
HUSBAND or si BI: ano tide o surf?
WIFE: Ano ba mura? May
bonus ba na tatak sa sabon? (bonus is a budget brand made by SM for those who
can't afford the well known brands).

Nakakalungkot isipin na ganon but then wala tayo magagawa.

Some people are lucky enough to have MORE than what they need. Others have to settle on what they can only afford while the rest don't even have the basic necessities of life.

Oh well... C'est La Vie...

By the way, I was watching FoodNetwork Channel a while ago and I saw this contest that I really want to join. It's a Thailand Trip. All I have to do is watch FN from 8pm onwards and wait for that logo to appear. I'll try, sayang eh...I badly need a vacation.

I also learned a new recipe! Thanks to Giada de Laurentiis. I can now cook Egg Crepes with Mozarella Cheese and Tomato Sauce. I will also try yung Scrambled Eggs with Bacon and Mozarella recipe niya. FN Channel makes me HUNGRY. I'm a hungry, hungry hippo! (LOL)

GREETINGS SECTION:

HAPPPYYYY BUUUUURRRRRDDAAAYYY TO SHAUN!!! (Zash tell her na lang, ok?)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO TITA GERLY, JOM and Danielle or is it Dominique? Hmm...

Prev: My Life So Far...

My Life So Far...

2008-08-19T02:07:00.004+08:00

I am a BORING BLOGGER.
I have no idea why I keep on updating my blog since my life story is as interesting as watching Giada de Laurentiis cooks Italian dishes in Everyday Italian (FoodNetwork Channel).

Then again...this blog is one of my outlet in life.

Anyway, I have nothing interesting to write but I just want to blog. I still couldn't sleep so I need to do something. Probably blab about some random things in my life. So here it goes...

As of my last entry...

* I made 2 movie reviews (scratch that), make that 3 movie reviews (since I'm working on another one) for 3 of my cousins.

* By tomorrow or this coming Wednesday, I NEED to visit my optometrist at Executive because I accidentally sort of "broke" or "tore" (whatever the term is) my contact lens when I took it off last night. As of now, I'm only using one contact lens. It's like having 2 visions at the same time. One is really,really blurred and the other one can see everything clearly. I am disappointed because this means I won't be able to drive around tomorrrow.

* I am currently helping my Tita G in paying her son's tutorial lesson at home. He badly needs it. (Their school sucks btw). ESA teachers were supposed to review their students for the upcoming NCAE (SAT version) this late August but they decided not to because no one was willing to pay the school for extra hours. (I believe that the review thing should be FREE except for the booklets)

* I still need to accompany my cousin in Ayala, Makati. He wants to take an entrance exam at iacademy. I need to find time for that.

* I also need to talk to Mariel and Angie about trying to find better opportunities outside Pinas. I'm working on it and so are they..(sana...)

* I had a huge fight with SIM. I feel bad that I had to lie but it's for his own good. The situation is too complicated to discuss here because it involves the possibility of having a good relationship. I want that for us but it's hard because I know it won't work out OR maybe I'm just scared that I might just get hurt in the end. (Pessimistic?...I think so too.) The "lie thing" was about me telling him some lame reason why I can't spend time with him. :( I'm not busy...I'm just too afraid to try spending time with him. (BUT We're OKAY now...I think)

In line with that...SIM texted me this

"Wherever you go, I will go. Wherever you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God be my God. If you would die, I would die with you. Only death can keep us apart"

Kinda scary if you ask me...but then I found out that this exact message was taken from Ruth 1:16:17. He took the time to find a good bible verse for me during the "petty fight" we had. I find it sweet...

...My life seems so dull... :)

Sometimes I have his feeling ...

They know something that I don't and I'm hanging by a moment waiting for the time that everything in my future life will finally unfold.

I hope everything turns out well someday.

(yawn) Sleepy now... GOODNIGHT EVERYONE!

Oh yeah...I was browsing my photo album when I saw this picture of my cousin. It made me laugh. He's a doll.

Book Review: In The Presence Of My Enemies

2008-08-05T17:26:00.002+08:00

Book Review: In The Presence Of My Enemies
Authors: Gracia Burnham and Dean Merrill
Genre: Religion & Spirituality

One afternoon, my Tita G brought this book that she borrowed from a friend of hers and since I had nothing to do that day, I decided to read it. It wasn't a page turner kind of book but as you read it, you'll get curious about a lot of things in the story.

We all know the story because it happened here in the Philippines and it was all over the news back then. It's about Gracia and Martin Burnham, 2 american missionaries here in the Philippines who were abducted along with other people in Palawan.

To be honest, I feel sad that Gracia and Martin had to endure that kind of tragedy because they lived here for how many years and they served the Filipino people for so long. They may be Americans but based from what I read in the book, they are FILIPINOS by heart.

They love helping people here. They have friends who are filipinos. They lived here for 13 years or so. Hindi dapat nangyari sa kanila yon.

I feel sad that Martin had to die. I couldn't imagine myself in Gracia's place. When I read the book, it opened my eyes to what really happened that time. It was very different from what I knew then. Mostly, we based our opinion on what the news said but sa book, in Gracia's own story, it was very different. You can see how corrupt those people in the book.

Everything there was all about MONEY. I thought Abu Sayyaf are fighting to claim what is rightfully theirs but then I realized na hindi pala because they're fighting for POWER and GREED. Each and everyone of them have motives of their own.

I admire Martin and Gracia because in those times hindi nawala yung faith nila kay God. They made it clear to those who abducted them na they are Christians and they will stick to their faith. There were so many instances na pwede silang magconvert to Islam to be freed but they didn't do it. There were so many temptations but they ignored it. I admire that.

Gracia also mentioned some spiritual words in the book, most of them came from Martin and It was very uplifting. Anyone can relate to those words that they wrote.

I also found some beliefs of the Abu Sayyaf members a little bit weird. Somehow nagcocontradict kasi yung ginagawa nila from their teachings. In some ways, may discrimination, like when sa teachings nila sinasabi na bawal ang ganito and when Gracia asked them about it, magdadahilan sila na "ah para lang sa Muslim yan, hindi sa iba"

I find it amusing pagganon kasi ano na ang difference nila sa mga corrupt and greedy politicians out there???? Oh and Gracia also mentioned something that caught my attention. She said they heard one of the Abu Sayyaf leaders talking to a certain "GENERAL" about sa mga ammunitions and weapons nila. What's up with that?? Ano yon? Friends sila pagdating sa pagbibili ng mga weapons and enemy pagmay hostages?

They're killing innocent people because of their own selfish motives. How cruel is that? Ano tingin nila sa tao -- Guinea Pig? If they die, okay lang kung walang ransom, may another day pa to take other innocent people as hostages?

Anyway, just read the book and you'll see what I'm talking about. It raises a lot of issues sa part ko as a reader and it made me think kung sino ba talaga ang utak ng lahat. Read the book - you'll learn a lot from it.

It will improve your FAITH in GOD.

My Stepbrother Frankestein

2008-07-29T02:44:00.003+08:00

I found this title when I googled online and I found it funny.

Exactly a week ago, I had a run-in with my stepbrother. We usually get along but last week was a totally different story.

I decided to blog about it here and in my blogspot account just so I can release all the bottled emotions that I have and move on with the issue.
I don't want to post this in my friendster account because the whole motley crue might read it. When I say the whole motley crue - it means - his whole family. Instead of using that TITLE, I would have probably used MY STEPBROTHER IS A PRICK because he really was a prick last week.

THE STORY:

Saturday: My stepbrother and my stepsister's boyfriend were having fun at my house. THEY WERE HAPPY. He was SMILING and playing with this honeybees they saw.

Sunday: I slept at 6 am because I spent my entire night doing my cousin's project online. I also googled some beach resort for my bestfriend (she requested it). I woke up at around 11 am with 6 text messages from my father who was having his vacation in Iloilo with my stepmom.

The six messages were ANGRY TEXT MESSAGES for me. He was asking me about some personal documents that were missing in our house. He texted me that my stepbrother's stuff were all over the place and someone took something in his room. Then he asked me this:

Why hinayaan mo may makapasok na iba sa bahay? Bakit may
gumamit na iba ng sasakyan? Wala na ba kayong respect sa akin when I say na di
pwede? Uuwi ako dyan.

Mind you, I just woke up when I read this messages in my phone. My first thought that day was "May nakapasok ba sa bahay namin while I'm sleeping? Nanakawan ba kami? Ginamit ba nila Don and Daren yung sasakyan and nabangga nila?

I immediately got up and went outside. When I opened my door, Daren, my stepsister's bf went out as well and watched TV on our living room. NAKAHINGA ako....Ahh...wala naman pala. Akala ko nanakawan. Okay naman sila.

I texted my father -- "Ano po sinasabi niyo? Di ko kayo maintindihan?"

Then I went outside my house and saw Don, my stepbrother frankenstein - slouching in one of our plastic chairs outside. He was busy texting and I noticed na he was sobbing. So I asked him what was wrong and he said: (with matching sobbing effect, pouting and frowning)

"Yung envelope ko sa kwarto may gumalaw. Wala na sa ayos.
Hinanap ko din ang prc grades ko na nakalagay don kasi nawawala. Hanap ako
ng hanap kanina di ko makita"

I frowned when I heard this and said "So nakita mo na?"

He said "Oo pero kung saan saan ako naghanap..." (still not looking at me & frowning)

I then said to him "Ikaw ba nagtetext kay papa?" Then he admitted that he was texting them about it. I wasn't mad at him but I started to get annoyed.

I went back to my room and read my father's text message. He was mad because of it. According to him, Don's paper was missing and may nakialam daw. Tinatanong ako kung sino ang bisita ko sa bahay and bakit ko pinabayaan na magkaganon.

I got really MAD! I have a short-fused. Like father, Like Daughter.

This was what I said to my father:

"Ano yan ako pagbibintangan na gumalaw ng gamit niya? What
the hell am I going to do with his PRC grades? Ginto ba yan? Ang visitors ko
dito sa house puro cousins ko and si tita (mom's side of the family) lang
because dinadalhan nila ako ng food pagmag-isa lang ako OR pagnagpapagawa sila
ng projects. NO ONE ELSE. And ano yang wala ng RESPETO syo? Baka gusto mo na ako
mawalan ng respeto sa inyo?! Baka gusto mo na magsalita na ako ng di maganda
dito sa kanila?! Kasi matagal na akong tumatahimik lang"

Say mo -- nasabi ko yan sa papa ko. Ganyan kami mag-away ni papa. Once I get mad, parang ka-age ko lang siya kung magsalita ako.

Then he texted me back. This time mas NICE na siya. He said hindi naman daw sa ako yung pinagbibintangan or yung mga visitors. He just assumed because yon ang text ng stepbrother ko sa kanila ng stepmom ko. WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE? GANON DIN YON!

Then I texted back and this was what I said:

"Walang pakialamero sa side ng mama ko. Hindi rin ako
pinalaki na pakialamera ng gamit. I have my own things. It's not my fault kung
burara siya sa gamit niya. AND hindi kayo dapat magtext sa akin ng ganyan
because ang dating is parang ninakawan yung house and nabangga yung car dito. I
was sleeping and you woke me up just for this! Dapat kasi you asked him first
kung SINO, SAAN and KELAN niya huling nahawakan yung envelope na yon. For all we
know, 2 years niya ng di nahahawakan yon and maybe someone in his side of the
family, checked it out 2 years ago and namisplaced lang nila yung
papers!"

That was my last text to him. He didn't reply after that prolly because he knew then na I was really mad na talaga.

I was MAD din naman talaga. I went out of my room after that exchanged of text messages and saw them having lunch. I immediately asked my stepsister's bf if they know na uuwi si papa the next day and he said YES, nagtext din siya.

I then said - Inaaway ko nga sa TEXT eh kasi hindi ko gusto ang tabas ng dila niya! Sabay punta sa room and sirado ng door. (GANDA NG WALKOUT MOMENT KO! lol)

I went back to bed because I was really sleepy. I woke up and found out that they both left. They stayed at Daren's apartment in Manila. My stepbrother joined him. I cooked my own food and talked to my Tita G about it. I was really mad that day.

Monday: My dad came home. He left my stepmom doon because next week pa dapat ang uwi nila. We talked about what happened. I'm not mad anymore but I am disappointed at my stepbrother.

Since they came into my life, tinanggap ko sila without questions. One of the reason was gusto ko na lang mapasaya si papa sa decision niya to have a new family. I'm not happy about it for quite a long time and madaming nangyari in between those times but I got over it. I accepted them and treated them like my new family as well.

Nagkaron ako ng instant stepsister, stepbrother and stepmom. We get along pretty good until nangyari yung ganito. I treated them well (that's the truth). I shared to all of them what I have and tried to bond with them as much as I can. Lahat yon para sa papa ko.

What I didn't like about that day - Don texted them and told them all sorts of stuff. He probably didn't tell them kung sino pinaghihinalaan niya but it was obvious through my father's text na may sinabi si Don about "my visitors" (my mom's side of the family). He went out of line sa part na yon. FAMILY KO NA YON. SIDE NG LATE MOM KO. IF HE MESSES WITH THEM THEN I WON'T THINK TWICE KUNG SINO KAKAMPIHAN KO.

He's 25 years old! Instead of texting them like a spoiled brat kid, he should just ask me if I know kung alam ko san yung mga documents niya. Instead of sobbing and pouting sa labas, dapat hinarap niya yung situation like any grown man would do.

He's 25 years old! He's not 16! Okay lang kung bata pa siya maiintindihan ko yung tantrums niya! He's 25! My GOODNESS!

He didn't sleep in our house for 4 days (i think). In my own opinion, mas better yon kasi ayoko ng nakikita ko siya. According to my father, nagtampo daw kasi. WHAT THE FUCK! Anong kinakatampo niya? Because of those personal documents na dapat naman in the first place alam niya san nakalagay and dapat nakafile ng maayos.

If meron dapat magtampo - AKO YON! kasi ako yung PINAHIRAPAN NIYA SA PROBLEMA NIYA! Such a prick! It's his stuff. Walang nakialam sa gamit niya dito sa house. I don't know how it got misplaced pero NO ONE SA SIDE KO not even AKO ang gumalaw non. Why not asked Daren since don natutulog sa room niya yon, or his sister nung nandito pa sa Pinas na baka tiningnan yon before and nakalimutan lang ibalik sa envelope niya.

I wasn't raised na mambintang sa ibang tao certainly not sa isang family member. I usually asked first unless may proof ako na sila ang gumalaw ng gamit ko.

As of now, we're not talking and AYOKO DIN SIYA KAUSAPIN. We're civil to each other but we don't talk. I eat lunch and dinner with them but I don't talk sa table like I used to. Parang bumalik sa dati yung relationship namin - when they first came into my life. THANKS TO HIM!

No offense to his sister na somewhat kaclose ko and his mom na mabait sa akin pero it was really his FAULT. Such a frankenstein prick and if ever di ko na maibalik yung treatment ko sa kanila then IT'S NOT MY PROBLEM ANYMORE.

I'm through being nice.

Technorati Profile

Rissa's Guide To Life (For The Girls)

2008-07-18T17:47:00.002+08:00

TO JUMP START YOUR DAY....

1.Every chance you get, take a stand against injustice, mediocrity and easy listening music.
2.Stay out of fluorescent lightng. It adds ten years to your face and fries your brain.
3.With agonizing decisions, the right choice is usually the hardest, SO DON'T WIMP OUT!
4.Don't wear cheap perfumes. Insect repellent has the same effect on men as it has on flies.
5.At least once a year, travel to some place you've never been.
6.Use candlelight often. It makes everybody look better.
7.Resist SELF-PITY. It's boring!
8.Don't be intimidated by the world of wines. As with most things, knowledge
will enhance your pleasure.
9.FAME may be the means to an end or the by-product of an end, but don't strive for fame as an end itself.
10.Share your fantasies with your boyfriend.

11.Avoid an obsession with weight. Don't get on the scales everyday, or better
yet, throw them away.
12.Don't stay at home alone with a video more than 2 nights in a row. That's how SERIAL KILLERS get started -- DO IT WITH THE LIGHTS ON.
13.Try not to mistake sexual obsession for true and abiding love. If in doubt, you're probably just horny.
14.FLOSS.
15.Don't talk or rustle your candy wrapper during a movie. These crimes should be
punishable by death!
16.Limit your intake of trashy novels. Live your romances, don't read them.
17.IMPROVISE. Life is like cooking -- it's more interesting when you deviate
from the recipe.
18.Learn how your body works. Don't always depend on your doctors to tell you what's wrong and how to fix it.
19.Smile at men who attract you. How else are they gonna get the picture?
20.Don't listen to people who tell you to act your age. We're all IMMATURE at times.

21.Don't read your horoscope daily. If you're taking that stuff too seriously, you've lost the plot.
22.If people tell you you can't sing, believe them, BUT...enjoy the sound of your own voice even if others don't.
23.Take NAPS.
24.Keep SECRETS.
25.Learn how to change a tire. Don't depend on the kindness of passing psychopaths.
26.When friends offer to help, ACCEPT. Trying to do everything yourself doesn't mean you're liberated, it means you're DUMB.
27.Don't join a religion which demands a bad haircut or that you only wear orange.
28.Don't wear too much jewellery. It undermines your own beauty.
29.It's okay to be innocent, but don't be gullible. There's a con artist born every minute.
30.Don't wear clothes that are too small for you just because you wish they'd fit.

31.If he hits you, DUMP HIM.
32.Read POETRY.
33.Don't try to be PERFECT. Even with the benefit of a surgery, there's no such thing.
34.Don't buy underwear at the supermarket. It never fits right.
35.Try to keep your kisses smoke-free. Cigarettes make your mouth taste like an ashtray.
36.Tell your boyfriend what you want and how you want it. He wants to please you but he can't read your mind...AND ASK HIM FOR THE SAME INFORMATION.
37.Go and hear lots of good live music. It restores the soul.
38.Don't take yourself too seriously.
39.If you want your lipstick to last, dry and lightly powder your lips first.
40.Take RISKS.

41.Always have a valid passport.
42.Don't be impressed by CYNICS. They're as blind as romantics but less fun to hang out with.
43.Allow yourself a dose of chocolate at least once a week. A CHOCOLATE FONDUE sounds yummy!
44.Develop a strong handshake. Nobody likes a wuss.
45.Trust your intuition. If you have a bad feeling about someone, there's probably a good reason.
46.When you read or hear a word you don't understand, look it up.
47.Wear a hat in the sun.
48.Don't let anyone push you into something you don't want to do.
49.Be suspicious of all POLITICIANS.
50.Beware of strangers who want to photograph you. If you want to be a model, make sure he's legit.

51.Have your own set of basic tools. Don't rely on DAD or your BOYFRIEND when
you want to hang a picture.
52.Resist doing what's expected of you all
the time.
53.It's great to have a mentor, but don't be a protegee for the
rest of your life.
54.Keep a small hand mirror in your purse.
55.Don't
be afraid to change careers in mid-stream. If you don't love what you're doing
now, it won't be more fun in 10 years.
56.WHEN YOU FALL IN LOVE, HOLD ON TO
YOUR LIFE.
57.If you think someone's trying to backstab you, CONFRONT THEM.
The first to draw in a showdown is usually the victor.
58.Surround yourself
with beautiful smells.
59.Don't order the same thing as he does unless you
really want it. Why choke down the raw fish if what you really crave is the
T-bone steak?
60.Every chance you get, CONQUER ONE OF YOUR FEARS.

61.Learn the difference between fashion and style.
62.If you don't like what a woman is saying, the problem may be her and not the whole movement. Define feminism for yourself.
63.Don't be intimidated by competition. Instead, see it as a way to lift your game.
64.Be sure to remove mascara before you go to bed if you don't want to look like a raccoon in the morning.
65.Don't accept a ride home with someone who's just a little drunk - if you value your LIFE that is...
66.RECYCLE.
67.Right after a break up, don't go through pictures of the two of you together. You'll be tempted to burn the evidence or just torture yourself, so either way you lose.
68.Have a regular pedicure. You'll feel good all over.
69.Learn to analyze your dreams. They're full of clues to the hidden you.
70.Visit your grandmothers. Potentially, she's your biggest fan.

71.Don't be afraid to make the first move. Guys can be incredibly slow.
72.If a stranger paws you on a bus, announces his crime loudly and tell him to piss off.
73.If you live in a city, take every opportunity to get out of town and If you live
out of town, take every opportunity to get to the city.
74.When it comes to footwear, keep it simple. Never wear amusing shoes. It might overshadow your personality hehehehe....
75.In brushes with the law, use your femininity. Some male cops still believe
they're here to serve and protect *women* wink wink...
76.Before eating sandwiches or hamburgers, remove lipstick. You don't want to
look as if you're growing a red goatee.
77.Always have at least one friend to whom you can tell everything.
78.Always be prepared to pick up the bill, but don't fight over it.
79.Even if your date has a car, always have enough money to pay for a cab home.
80.Have long bubble baths with Bach playing in the background.

81.Don't be afraid to kick and scream if someone is seriously messing with
you. Who needs a memory you'll have to repress later?
82.When it comes to art, don't pretend to like something if you don't.
83.Don't be habitually LATE and don't put up with the people who are. NO ONE'S THAT IMPORTANT.
84.Don't let the hard times defeat you. Life's full of them, so be tough.
85.Listen to your heart,not what people tell you.
86.If you've had the same hairstyle for a few years, try something different.
87.Remember that courage is what people have who do brave things even
when they're scared shitless.
88.When someone's done something wrong, help fix the problem rather
than lay the blame.
89.Don't get breast implants to make someone love you.
90.Don't sit still for a racist joke.

91.Every once in a while, make yourself do something you think you can't do.
92.Don't be a fashion victim. In spite of what the magazines would lead you
to believe, there are more pressing ussues than this season's hemlines.
93.Spend time with KIDS. They'll keep you honest.
94.Never wait by the phone for him to call.
95.Warn your friends when your birthday's coming up. You can't mope about no one throwing a party if they didn't know.
96.Don't get married before you've LIVED.
97.If you can't decide whether you've had enough to drink, YOU HAVE.
98.Don't watch a lot of TV. How can you make the most out of life if you don't have one?
99.Don't shop where they tell you you look good in everything.
100.Immediately after a break up, don't go to a party if you know he'll be there. Social events are rarely enhanced by violence.

101.DON'T MAKE A MAN FALL IN LOVE WITH YOU JUST TO PROVE
YOU CAN.
102.Earn your own money. Financial dependency breeds contempt.
103.Avoid jealousy -- the most useless emotion there is. The woman you envy is probably as insecure as you are for the same reasons you wouldn't believe.
104.Don't sleep with someone "for old time's sake" - LEAVE it to the Sex and the
City girls
105.Learn how to cook.
106.If your boyfriend doesn't know how to cook, TEACH HIM.
107.Don't buy something you're not wild about just because it's on sale.
108.If you're planning to drink, leave the car at home.
109.Don't get wounded by criticism. Learn from it.
110.Keep a nail file by the phone. Always use an opportunity to do 2 things at once. Life is short.

111.Never deny a compliment. JUST SAY THANK YOU.
112.Don't waste your life dreaming about the future. BE HERE NOW!
113.If you haven't worn a certain dress in a year, give it away. Someone else might need it.
114.If you find you're doing all the compromising, stop it or get out of the relationship.
115.Once a week, do something meaningless. If your whole week is meaningless, consider a career move.
116.Don't be afraid of success. As hard as it is, it's easier to live with than failure.
117.Self-induced vomiting is a sign that you need help.
118.Don't pick up hitch hikers. The road has enough hazards as it is.
119.Walk on the beach at sunrise.
120.Don't buy expensive luggage. It's an invitation to thieves.

121.Frequent your library. Being broke is no excuse for not reading.
122.If your food has been prepared badly in a restaurant, send it back. Don't be
intimidated by waiters with an attitude. JUST DO IT IN A NICE WAY.
123.Don't break up with your boyfriend in public.
124.Don't spread rumors. What goes around comes around.
125.If a guy says sometihng disgusting to you in the street, say something disgusting back. Don't suffer in silence.
126.Always have a good novel by the bed.
127.Don't buy clothes as a gift unless you're positive about the sizes.
128.Spend some time alone at least once a day. If you can only hear other voices, it's
impossible to listen to your own.
129.Always tell people when they have something stuck in their teeth.
130.Over-planning can ruin an experience. Sometimes it's best to take a blind, flying leap.

131.Don't sleep with someone just to make someone else jealous.
132.At least once a week, put on some loud music and dance around the house.
133.If you live life to the fullest you're bound to make mistakes, so don't dwell on them.
134.Drop friends who make you feel shitty about yourself.
135.Don't say YES when you mean NO.
136.You can fantasize about vampires and pirates, but don't go out with the real
thing.
137.Make a list of your 10 favorite things to do, and do them all in one week.
138.Remember that LUCK is the residue of DESIGN.
139.Once in a while, take a different route home from work. Use every opportunity to break patterns.
140.When you get a promotion, take a friend/family out for a fancy dinner.

141.In romance, never cling desperately. LOVE and POSSESSION are mutually
exclusive.
142.LIGHTEN UP!
143.Drink 2 liters of water a day.
144.Don't let your bestfriend bully you. Sometimes she's the one it's most important to stand up to.
145.Remember your boyfriend's mother's birthday.
146.Be curious. There's no such thing as stupid question, only stupid answers.
147.Never be afraid to ask what you want.
148.Never be afraid to fight for what you want if they don't give it to you.
149.Don't LITTER. People who throw rubbish around deserve nothing less
than beheading.
150.Avoid LYING. It's too hard to cover your tracks later.

151.If you get jilted don't pine. Remember how fatal attraction ended?
152.Don't let your parents tell you how to live. Listen to their suggestion but live your life the way you want it.
153.Don't turn a guy down just because he's short, bald or wears glasses. Fun comes in lots of shapes and sizes.
154.If you get PMS, HANDLE IT! These days there's a lot you can do.
155.You have to be able to criticize your friends, but sometimes they need your unqualified support.
156.Never be afraid to voice the dissenting opinion.
157.Know when to stop worrying. Anxiety dries out the skin.
158.Report sexual harassment at work, even if it's the boss. Don't suffer in silence.
159.If you love someone, WORK ON IT. A romantic relationship needs constant care.
160.Be proud of your achievements.

161.Be suspicious of all advertising.
162.Don't sit still for a sexist joke.
163.MEDITATE. Five minutes or an hour, it can the most valuable part of your
day.
164.Learn how to repel unwanted advances graciously. There's never a good
reason to be an arsehole.
165.If he doesn't want to change, you can't make him. If he does want to change, it's still up to him.
166.Victims are vastly unappealing. Don't be one.
167.Remember that SUCCESS is the best REVENGE.
168.Treat cosmetics as the accessories they are, not the key to the meaning of life.
169.Don't pretend you're happy when you're not.
170.Don't get your haircut the same day as the big night out. It can ruin your mood.

171.If a guy says sometihng nice to you in the street, thank him and keep moving.
172.If he uses someone else's name in the throes of passion, THROW HIM OUT.
173.Surprise overseas friends with a phone call. It's a cheaper than the dinner you'd have if they were in town.
174.Trust your first impressions. They're almost always right. LOL.
175.Don't be afraid to change your look. Self-reinvention is one of the pleasures of the imaginative mind.
176.If you don't feel beautiful, it doesn't matter who you look.
177.Keep a JOURNAL or a BLOG.
178.Don't be ashamed if you enjoy "dirty" books or movies. One woman's pornography is another woman's erotica.
179.Be original. If you can't STEAL ONLY FROM THE BEST.
180.Don't smoke just to look cool. It won't make you look cool. TRUST ME.

181.Get ANGRY.
182.Don't be an open book. A little bit of mystery can get a long way.
183.Remember everything in moderation, including MODERATION.
184.Nurture your ability to bullshit in tricky situations. It could save your arse if not your life.
185.Don't listen to women (ahem) that tell you how to live your life - LIKE THIS ONE. THINK FOR YOURSELF. Hehehehe (LOL).

My guide to life...What's yours?
Thanks to Joan Sauers!

The "Busy Girl"

2008-07-06T03:53:00.003+08:00

Lately, I've been really busy. I don't have a stable job. I don't have a business to manage but I'm a very busy girl.

I'm always at home and yet I looked haggard almost every single day.

It's funny because my everyday routine is so tiring that I'm sometimes physically, mentally and emotionally drained throughout the day. I have no paperworks, no meetings or deadlines but I feel stressed.

Probably because I worry too much. I worry about a lot of things - future stuff - mainly, those that concern my mom's side of the family, as well as my future plans in life.

I haven't started doing anything for my own future plans but I feel tired already. I have a lot of plans and I'm still in the "planning stage" for like 2 months now. I don't want to think na ganito ang life ko forever. I want some changes and I know I have start doing something to make things happen. The question is -- kaya ko ba na gawin ngayon yan lahat???

Here are my list:

WHAT HAPPENED LAST MONTH THAT MADE ME FEEL SO TIRED:

- My 2nd year high school cousin went to my house a week ago and asked me if they can interview me for their biology project. Their teacher asked them to interview someone who took B.S.Biology in college. I answered 10 questions and we recorded it. I did most of the work since they had no idea how to do it. We managed to finish everything on time. (I just got irritated at their teacher because after that project, he's asking them again to interview someone - another biologist - but this time, dapat daw nakavideo. What the ----?!)

- My Tita G and her kids asked me to make an essay about her kids for their nutrition month in school. I'm not good at that but I tried my best. I finished it just last friday.

- I spent a lot of time for the past 2 weeks googling about Universities. Two of my cousins will be graduating next year in High School. Kim wants to take a course related to fashion designing. Gilbert wants anything to do with fine arts or multimedia. I researched all the possible universities that they can try. I emailed some and bookmarked the others. For this July or August, the 3 of us will visit UST (department of fine arts), BENILDE (fine arts) and Southville International School and Colleges. I don't know if they're parents can afford the tuition for these schools but what's important is that we will try to apply and they will take an entrance examinations for these schools - just so they would have the option to choose which school they like best next year. (I have to help them because I MUST)

- I went to BPI SM Bacoor last June and asked for information regarding ATM. I'm planning to apply for my very own atm card. I also made some important transactions from the bank for a very good friend of mine.

- I got sick. I had this migraines last June. I'm worried because of it.

WHAT ARE THE THINGS THAT I NEED TO DO:

- I need to ask my cousins when would be the best time for them to visit the universities this July or August with me.

- I need to visit an optometrist this July because i have this feeling that my eyes is the reason why I'm having migraines lately.

- I'm starting to gain weight so I need to do something about it. I'll try to live healthy and exercise a lot. I also need to sleep early. If I want to make things happen, I have to start from myself.

- I need to take another medication for my hormonal problem because I don't want to end up in a surgery room again next year.

- I have to start saving money or else I'll be having huge headaches by late this year. I'm helping a cousin of mine in school and I also need to save for future trips with friends.

- I need to look and buy all the BOB ONG Book Collections because NOODLES asked me a favor. She wants those and after her chemotherapy this week, I'll be visiting her. I need that by next week.

So much things to do...so little time.

Okay...not exactly true...so much things to do - a lot of time - I'm just too lazy to do everything. It would take me a week just to finish one important stuff kung tutuusin pwede naman sabay sabay. Then again, it's not like may deadline ako. I don't know why I'm putting pressure to myself. In return tuloy - I feel stressed!

On the lighter note:

Do you have this certain someone who makes your day seems so great kahit hindi? I have a friend who makes my day - my everyday - a special one. He's not a boyfriend not even a special someone. He's just a friend whom I really like. I'm glad I have someone like him who can make things a little brighter each day. We're friends for like 9 months pa lang but we're very close. He's a darling! sobra! I am so glad I have someone like him in my life. I am still LUCKY.

I really am.

BTW, Happy BIRTHDAY to Tita Tet (June27), to CLARENCE (June22 - I think), to KC (July13). I'm sorry don sa June burrdays - I forgot to greet the 2 of them kasi nga I'm such a busy girl. (Yeah right)

Also, Zashie's Tita Fe died last June. May her soul REST IN PEACE. Another one, is my papa's old friend - Tito Rod also died last June - I'm not close to his family but I remember him as someone na very nice sa akin when I went to visit his place. CONDOLENCE.

The BIG V

2008-06-20T22:56:00.005+08:00

I came across a thread topic in a forum site that I joined months ago about the BIG V or better known as THE VIRGINITY of a woman. A certain guy asked for an advice about his non-virgin girlfriend. Most members gave their opinion about it and the majority including myself said that LOVE is much more important than the state of her hymen.

I respect everyone’s opinion regarding this matter until someone quoted my response regarding the topic. An ALREM guy (that’s his pseudo) gave his own opinion regarding the topic and to what I said. I appreciate the fact that he took the time to read my response to the thread question. It was nice. I would probably appreciate his comment and maybe engage in a friendly argumentative debate regarding about it if he wasn’t such a prick.

I didn’t like how he chose his words to express his sentiments. I didn’t like how he tried to start an argumentative discussion about it. It wasn’t nice. The words he used were very offending not just to me but to all women especially non-virgin girls. I have been a member of a lot of forum site since 1999. I never experienced such gratuitous comment until that day. I found myself laughing about it because if he dared to comment like that in femalenetwork.com, most members (mostly women) would probably get mad at him.

There was nothing wrong about his opinion if only he chose to use the right words and avoided the downright insult regarding non virgin girls. He prefers virgin women. He values virginity so much. There’s no problem with that. It is his prerogative. I respect that.

I answered his comment regarding my first comment. We went off topic because neither of us was the thread starter. I told him that. For me and my girl friends who read his post, he is a judgmental jerk. To use virginity as a measure of self worth, that’s plain bullshit.

You can’t just judge a woman if she loses her virginity outside of marriage. You can’t just judge her as a slut. I am affected by this because I have friends and family members who lost their virginity to their boyfriends and became young mothers. They lost it and now they’re still single and living their life to the fullest BUT THEY’RE NOT SLUTS. They don’t just sleep around and just because they lost their virginity at such a young age doesn’t mean they have no SELF-RESPECT.

They made mistakes. We all did even men but losing their virginity shouldn’t be the basis of their character. If you’ll use VIRGINITY as a measure of self worth, then what kind of a judgmental asshole are you? What if she was raped or lost it due to health reasons, a ballerina for 20 years or an athlete that requires extreme flexibility? Does that mean that these women who belong to this category have no SELF-RESPECT at all? “NORMAL PEOPLE” won’t judge women just because of this. It is beyond their control.

Virginity should never be the basis of morals. The state of her hymen should never be the basis of self respect. PERIOD!

The saddest thing or probably the cruelest thing a man or any person can do is to say things like what ALREM said in that thread. He made non-virgin girls feel less of a person. He has high regards to virgin women. I respect that but he should have probably kept his mouth shut about non-virgin girls. It’s just downright insulting.

You can’t just tell if women is bitchy or not by the state of her hymen. It’s not the basis for upbringing, personality or character of a woman. She can be a virgin but downright bitchy and she can also be a non-virgin but kind and nice to everyone. It’s really unfair that someone can say things like that to a woman.

Sabi nga ng friend ko na single mom “He’s a chauvinistic pig”. I feel for her because I am a woman also. I may not be in the same situation as her but I know the feeling if someone thinks of you as less of a person just because of that.

If that Alrem guy thinks that Virginity is important then he should talk to his testosterone community and advice them not to sleep with their girlfriends outside of marriage. That’s why we said he’s a chauvinistic pig – because - he seems think that the responsibility of saying NO TO SEX is solely shouldered by women.

I don’t like it when people judge but there’s nothing we can do about it.

People judge – It’s what they do. They fear what they do not understand.

We have our own views about this issue. Some may agree with me while others may not. That thread question was asked for a reason. I reacted harshly to his comment but only because he didn’t choose his words wisely to express his opinion. In forums, different opinion may arise from different people but as most forum addicts would say WE WRITE FOR OURSELVES, NOT FOR OTHERS. It’s our opinion. They should just respect it.

I respect his. He just went out of line a little bit. A little off topic with wrong choices of words. I let my girl friends read his replies and all of them were insulted. They reacted harshly as well. I can’t blame them. I did too.

Bottom line: Virgin or not doesn’t make anyone less of a person. You can’t judge them unless you know for sure they’re sleeping with different men everyday. You can’t condemn non virgin girls for life just because she lost her virginity outside of marriage. You can’t judge her personality, self worth and life because of that. You also can’t just impose your sense of morals on other people regarding about this topic.

Our culture thinks highly of Virginity. I used to be like that but the reality is as you get older your beliefs drastically change. I don’t have my blinders on anymore. I see things differently because I have girl friends and family who opened my eyes to things like this. Their experiences in love and life made me see things clearly. Virginity is one of the special gifts a girl can give to her husband but it shouldn’t be the basis of her character. It’s just one of the special gifts. There are plenty of other things she can give a man. There are more important things such as LOVE, FAITHFULNESS, HAPPINESS and COMMITMENT. Virginity is just a fraction of that.

All it takes is just a SOUND MIND.

** I made this entry for my girl friends, family members, relatives who got offended by that comment made by someone. In a way, it’s my fault kasi I let them read it hehehe. It shouldn’t be a big deal. It’s not naman but they wanted to be heard. TAO LANG DAW. Nasasaktan din mga yan. As their friend/family, nasasaktan din ako for them when I read something like that and tinitira yung mga tulad nila. Babae din ako. May mga kapatid, pinsan, pamangkin and friends na babae din siguro kayo. Baka husgahan din sila sa mga ganyang topic.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of Crystal Skull

2008-06-20T16:35:00.007+08:00

Category: Movie

Genre: Adventure/Action

I enjoyed the film but I can't really say na it's one of the best films of this year. Harrison Ford is definitely the only actor who can play Jones sa movie. No one else. He made that character his years ago. Great cast, nice effects but napag-iwanan na yung story. I mean, okay I know trademark ng Indiana Jones yung forest scene blah blah blah pero yung setting or yung time - I think masyadong late na rin kasi. Don't get me wrong Indiana Jones Fanatics - I watched yung mga past Indiana Jones movies and they were good during those times. Iba na kasi now...pero yung Indiana andon pa rin sa time niya which is understandable naman. I guess mejo late na lang talaga yung paggawa ng movie na 'to. It would have been nice if sa time na natin now yung Indiana Jones but then again that would be next to impossible kasi kailangan din ibagay sa age ni Indiana Jones.

The movie lacks SPUNK - for me. Maybe because Harrison Ford is getting old. He's not the Indiana Jones noon na young and very sexy tingnan na scenes. But I still love his witty lines - yon naman nagpaganda sa Indiana Jones.

Siguro I just expected too much for this film kasi bata pa lang ako napapanood ko na ang mga Indiana Jones na movies. I can't remember yung entire story ng 3 na nauna but I can still recall na maganda yung film.

Having Steven Spielberg and George Lucas in this film somehow made me expect a REALLY GOOD INDIANA JONES movie. Yung story kasi walang appeal for me. Same style of stories sa first 3 films. I heard the writers for this film took 19 years to finished it. Too bad...for 19 years, they only came up with this story. They sticked to the old tradition of Indiana Jones - like yung forest scenes, clothes, hat and witty dialogues but then pati yung storyline nagstick din sila. There were nothing new and exciting for me sa film except the fact na magaling lang talaga si Harrison Ford - you can really see na sa kanya lang bagay yung lead role.

I also like Shia LeBeouf in this film. He stood out in some scenes and there were a lot of funny dialogues between him and Harrison Ford. It would have been nice if they created a much better storyline or plot, baka mas naging interesting yung story for all.

For those who likes adventure/action films this will do esp. if you're not really a fan of Indiana Jones - maeenjoy niyo yung film because it was shot beautifully. Maganda ang effects and like what I said okay naman ang story line but for those fanatics or atleast don sa mga nakapanood na ng Indiana Jones noon - you might compare it talaga sa TRILOGY noon and you'll have mixed emotions about the film. I did.

I enjoyed it but I have my no-no sa story. If ever magkakaron again ng sequel 'to, they better create something different naman para exciting. Anyway, let us just leave it to Spielberg and Lucas. Hopefully, mas maging maganda pa yung mga susunod if meron pa.