Sam's ShortTakes Unlimited

another day...

2010-07-24T02:15:00.000-07:00

after 143 posts later...i am still here...ready once more to vent out (hehe), reach out and redo my seemingly unstoppable de-cluttering of my all-too endless (jokin') doodles via the worldwide web.

so, how are you dear bloggers? to all those who happen to pass by this blog: you are always welcome to browse, leave your comments and just share what you think about the many topics i sometimes, also ponder upon.

like next week, the world will once again look at my country with all kinds of emotions: praise, pride, happyness and some may have negative notions as how real Filipinism is shown by the masa or the common tao.

as such, i am hoping that there won't be much upheaval, riots, dispersal, threats to humanity like: racism, prejudice and other harmful notes that may bespeak of being unwise, unhappy, filled with injustice...

as such, too, i am hopeful that my country and its people, ruling politicos included, will remain humble, humane and always patient amidst all the turmoil that may be brewing unseen by the naked eye, yet felt by the unspoken ideologies that, some may try to turn a blind eye...once more...

have a happy weekend!

just thoughts

2010-06-11T00:10:00.000-07:00

change may or may not be a very nice word, sometimes.

it is often said that change is the only word that can change - over time, without being felt, may even be unwelcome, even amongst friends, colleagues and neighbors. from where i am at, we are having a change in the outlay of plans, values, ideas, ideals and ideologies. with or without allowing anyone to, even at a glance or a mere murmur, to inhibit the clause for change, beyond the ordinary, even after the call of duty, albeit the stench of traditional, existential, and, nihilistic adherence of the status quo that may, or may not, blow up in our very own often misjudged, often miscontrued, sometimes misunderstood, mishap, double jeopardy and freedom often taken away - either by brute force, silent demeanor, lethal and or often tactile feelings of absence - from the heart, to the mind, to one's humanity, and existense.

altho, things may often get heated sometimes, volatile to the fact that change may, or may not, take a back seat towards the unrelentless assault, still, grateful inspite of every problem, or worries - freedom is in the air once more - blessed to what's here and now. Often, glad for all the realities, that my or may not bite, still looking forward to all that's within our grasp and to all the imprints of the mind that we are still hoping to achieve, and or may have already achieved.

my take: change is always a welcome respite to being Pinoy.

summer thoughts

2010-06-01T19:50:00.000-07:00

so, how's your summer vacation's been?

if you're askin' me...mine's been sweltering, svelte and really sweaty (of course, it's a grand summer vacation, hehe). and i've started to really adapt and adopt my neutral tones (that's skin, surfin' and sunbathin'), amidst a lot of shoppe and shop talk with my family, circle of friends and my S.O. (hmm, significant other? or maybe, just maybe: simple overtures that may constitute to a great deal of musicality, notes of theatrical originality, take your pick...), for abbreviations and letters may mean a lot too, or may differ in some sense. you get my drift, naman di ba? (grins)

while on the topic of summertime, one of my fave songs by Richard Marx come to mind: "Endless Summer Nights"...just a few lyrics and i am in my smiley & sunshiny mood again...

...and i remember how you love me
time was all we had until the day you said goodbye
and i remember every moment
all those endless summer nights...

my take: do remember that each day, and, each night will leave a thought of either bliss, or sad memories, these are but pains that both you and I need to go thru...for each day will always be a learning experience and another chance to dwell on the varying shades of life.

ciao, bella!

another midweek...another perfect day...

2010-04-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

as we often quote via radio lite talk, "overcast skies, not a hint of rain, no clouds in sight, it's a perfect day altogether..."

not to claim self-righteousness...but since most of us (who's got a lot of music inclination that often lean toward the mushy, pop, love, alternative lite, jazzy tempos, lite drive, OPM and golden oldies, new wave and novelty songs, etc.), our repertoire is so full of varied undertones, often underlying the fact that most of my colleagues in the biz are: either can't sing but can dance, or, can't dance but can sing, altho some can both sing and dance (just as background dancers, and backUp vocals), hehe. no pun intended.

i recall my college days when we started our own group of singers, and we joined singing contests and sang tunes while waiting for our teachers, after school hours and while waiting for our circle of friends. fun and unforgettable exchange of music notes, guitar, cadence, melodies and memories, too.

as for me, i haven't sang in a really long time. not that i can't carry a tune but...maybe, depending on my mood, like, whether i'm hungry, or thirsty, or whether i am having a smiley, sunshiny day or night.

my school kids often say, "wait a minute...please, just hum a bit and then, who knows?"; "...why does it rain when you sing?"; "...let's just drink water than sing ". as you all know, kids always tell the truth so i'm putting my singing career and musical dreams on hold, for now.

ciao, bella.

weekend wit, or something like that...

2010-04-10T01:30:00.000-07:00

life is startin' to take shape - slowly but surely, safe and healthy.

i may still have that feeling of "outside lookin' in"...altho from where i am at, the weather is always a series of highs and lows, the sudden breeze is always a welcome respite to all the quite toxic tasks of: thinkin' about the so-called political ramifications, the uncanny truths that each of the politicos (and as they say here: trad politicians, and open-minded campaign managers, and all those who comprise every electoral group, sponsors and agile, able and truthful Pinoys , even expats).

yep, the looking glass syndrome is upon me all over again.

like i've always told my friends, if you don't exercise your right to vote - then, you have no right to stand for or against your government, its people and the wandering brouhaha altogether.

as of this writing, i am still thinkin' of what to do next since i still have a lot on my plate: duties, responsibilities, errands to run, promises to keep, my so-called lovelife - always takin' a simple route towards where it should be heading - all that's nonsensical, humdrum, fun, witty, you catch my drift, right? hopefully romantic persons like me are usually on a continuing search for everything that's sweet, intoxicating (even heady, if you like the implication of that word, hehe), amore, and if your heart - with your humaneness and being humane - is to be followed, you may have a lil piece of heaven on this side of the Philippines.

so, off to better things, albeit mundane on some days, and outright "scary" on weekends (hehe, jokin')...but days are generally peaceful - serenity, simplicity, thoughtful, rewarding and often harmony is a cause that's always worth lookin' out for.

to all of the bloggers out there, cheers to another unforgettable weekend!!!

summer time amidst stillness and silhouette

2010-04-04T23:59:00.000-07:00

smokey shadows across the pool of smiles...
with nothing in mind, except you.
beyond, between and in behalf of...
without any bad dreams, even when you are not here.

temperate, tropical, blissfully slow and languid...
without you, without me.
ardent, balmy, blissful, but, silent...
where are you? will we ever be?

crowded, noisy, hazy, albeit a memory...
why are you still feeling all alone?
why am i still crying in silence?
is it you? or will it always be me?

on each balmy evening...
tranquil and hopeful thoughts.
for each tomorrow...
a word of honor, trust, love, and, laughter.

an etude to march, in advance...

2010-02-27T00:09:00.000-08:00

time flies so fast,
how i shall deal with this?
shall it be done with passagio?

or will it be worth anything...at all?

is there a way to hold on tight to my evening memories,
or brushes of wispy melodies, to the shoulders that i often cry on...
as time suddenly runs - that it can't be - stopped? or so, seemingly.

my days are often cut short,
my nights are filled with much longing,
as the tide form a wintry cry...waiting to be heard by YOU.

my heart is now, albeit slowly, trying to heed the calling...
waiting for your smile, hoping for your embrace -
AND, after all, each embrace, and each sigh hold a promise -
for all who stay still and those who will never be silenced.

hoopla!

2010-02-17T20:22:00.000-08:00

another mid-february afternoon - amidst tons of errands to run, events to do, duties and responsibilities to act on - i am happy to note that everything is turnin' out just fine...humdrum may seem to be a thing of the past year, as another happy, grateful and kinda sweltering (almost) summertime is upon all of us again...

yep, everyone's (well, almost everyone's, hehe) favorite summertime is almost here (takin' into consideration your topographical location and/or atmospheric conditions)...as the ranges and changes in tropical climate are slowly bein' felt by where i am at...

i am learning to love the intense heat of the summer sun - as early as today, i am doing my share of purchasing sunblock, lip balm, after-care skin lotion, face and body treatment, hand and nails emollients, quick relief items before camping out again - who knows where summertime roads would lead us again (hint, hint)...

as most of my summer camp friends would say it: "time to hit the roads, surf among the swells of the seas and stay cool inspite of the heat".

thoughts are runnin' fast inside my head as my fingers are kinda unable to type as fact as to how my thinking brain is sendin' out various flashes of ideas, may be new trends to analyze and other note-worthy bits of information goin' on overload, may be - on overdrive...

meanwhile, a lot of new and emerging green ways of recycling and renewable energy sources are cropping out into the open - biodegradable, reusable and revolutionary ways and/or measures that may either thwart, trigger or help save planet Earth - either locally, regionally, communal, nationwide and, maybe, even on a global scale. recent trends on polymer(e), organic vegetables and oil surplus are still untapped to their top level of evolvement, solubility, reaction to other solutes and, whether or not, these may lead to leaching into the soil - and if these recent discoveries are capable of withstanding the intense heat from the sun's rays, affect the water cycle, enable soil erosion, and its effects (good or bad) should likewise be taken into consideration...

from my standpoint (note: i am not claiming self-righteousness or be a miss-know-it-all), these renewable energy sources are always a goldmine of novelty, raw, volatile, harmful, unsteady and improper to even be discovered, less alone be put out into the open. as fear for human survival, food shortage, bush fires, unannounced snowfall, challenging ways of trying to combat the pain of annihilation, intrepid diagnosis or erstwhile and un-ratified prepositions and gargantuan propositions that may either contribute to the decline of an already declining weather span, tidal disputes, unchartered deep ends of the glaciers, uninhabited land areas and maladjusted trivia that could either hamper, deceive, uproot (albeit unintentionally) and pull back all the brave new usage of Nature's ability to renew, to heal, and to provide humankind with another happy day (and night) to look forward to...altho, these ideas and approaches as to how each of us could help in saving planet Earth may seem to be so far-fetched, the hopeful ways from our collective efforts are starting to take shape, as we all look out for each other (even a smile given, a word of appreciation taken, goodwill and laughter shared, food for hugs, meal tickets in exchange for newly-harvested fruits, maybe?)...all these are welcome respite to an unending search for life-changing attitude, ideals, idealism, or truths that would only lay claim to the unfathomed depths of the human mind...

my take; like always, you could either stay inside or outside your comfort zones, stay calm but focused on every task at hand, greet each day with a loud bellow from your achy-breaky lovely day and then take a heartbreaking nosedive into a pool of sleep. irregardless, these are just bits of the happy days, giggly nights, summer hideaways, balmy evenings, unending hugs, post-Valentine kisses, and other humane touches of just bein' there for each other.

these will be for now.
have a very happy day, bloggers!

have a very happy day everyone!!!

2010-02-12T21:04:00.000-08:00

it's almost Valentines' Day...to all the hopefully romantic, hopelessly romantic and hummingly romantic --- well, happy hearts' day in advance!!!

figure this out: as most would say: valentines' is the most commercialized day ever (sendin' a very happy hearts' day would cost you either a bunch of roses, boxes of chocolates and a repertoire of love songs) - from where i am at - this selling out and/or selling your self on this premise would even leave you to rethink your priorities (whether to stay single, look for a companion, simply look around for true friends or just keep in mind that whatever happens, it's always good to know that your heart will always be in the right place - whether it's the love day, the love month or finding the love of your life)...

lemme just careen into the loving side of my otherwise so-called lovelife, hehe. mind you, dearies...it's like a merry mixUp of travelogue, travails, episodes, heartAches, trembling with fiery and imagined nights (or days, maybe) - i am not even sure as to how i will ever come up with the best words to describe the state of my heart nowadays - do i even make sense to you? guess not?! believe me, the trappings of love will never be enough for those who have experienced LOVE in it's truest and noblest sense...LOVE always seem to make the world go 'round...

to the young ones - here's to a kinder and peaceful day of hearts' to you...
to my generation ("30 something na eh...") have a Happy Valentine's Day, in advance!
to all the bloggers out there, same greetings too, go out to you!

tc, always.
cheers!

hi there!

2010-01-28T02:34:00.000-08:00

a big holler to all the bloggers out there! :)

as we draw nearer to the month of hearts, a lot of activities are in store over here in naga city "an maogmang lugar", and the rest of the bicol region (examples: concerts, road trips, fun times, birthday celebrations, Valentines' Day (syempre!) and a batch of happy times altogether!

yup, i sure am glad that fab and fun days are here again!

yey! don't you just love the smell of each morning (upon waking up, after saying your prayers, folding the laundry, hanging up the wash and serving each other and sharing happiness with a glorious and fantastic hooo-hooo!

these will be for now.
have a wonderful day, everyone!

ciao, bella.

hola !!!

2010-01-09T19:23:00.000-08:00

happy new year to all the bloggers out there!!!

ten days after 2010, it seems that each of the sun's rays have bestowed upon all of us - thru it's glorious and sunshiny effects - everything will always be possible !!! (grins)

at least, all of us will have enough rest and recreation - daytime, midday, early evening and even after midnight - Cheers!

so now, i am back on track with you and here's to a very happy 2010 - well, at least for the 1st quarter (smiles)...

over here in naga city 'an maogmang lugar' : marhay na aga po saindo gabos.

greetings to my soul sister zj: musta na po ika? (regards to R, pls. tnx)

...and to our high school batch standard bearer (bong!!!!) ... "be good" (salutations!)

hmmm...let's check the weather from where i am at...lemme see - overcast skies, a bit gloomy, kinda cold, no sign of rains (yet!), it's a truly perfect weekend altogether - hola ka dyan sa mga taga-radio-tv-trimedia-quadliners-and to the Fellows - EXCELSIOR!!!

wait a minute or a mili-second (is it?)...
chuvaness-happyness-hugs-and-KeepItShortBUTSweet (K.I.S.S.)
...gimme a penny (thots), a nickle (mwah) or a dime (grins) ;
sendin' all of you my 'best regards' ...

these will be for now.
ciao, bella.

ps. musta na lang po saindo gabos.
tc always.

Hola!!!

2009-11-28T02:24:00.000-08:00

hello everyone and welcome to another day of work, of play and doing all sort of stuff - with or without your significant other, would-be partner and friendship galore!!!

lemme see - where all these will lead me to - either with another feather on my cap, a rim above the block with obviously no qulams in between...

still on shell-shock move, i'm here again - going against the cool level headiness of sublime climactic changes, looking forward to all the strangeness, amidst the struggle where we may compete with all that's heady, hearty and downwhat funny!!

smile, i'll be here...like always.

hola, bloggers!!!

2009-11-09T17:28:00.000-08:00

hi everyone...how are things from your end? i've been kinda busy taking care of errands - that's the reason for this much-delayed update.

anyhoo, i'm really hopin' that all of you are feelin' great and stayin' healthy for the working week that we are havin' right now. over here in naga city, the weather's fine, at least we are enjoyin' a sunshiny day. :)

tnx for keepin' in touch!!!

ICSCJ 2009

2009-09-07T20:42:00.000-07:00

it's always an honor to represent my batch (17th batch: the GREEN Batch of the Society of Junior Fellows) - whenever there is a chance to do so...

so i won't be revealing my age here (or that of my SJF batchmates) - you know who you are...

EXCELSIOR, Fellows!

After Another Long Weekend...

2009-09-07T03:01:00.001-07:00

how have you been guys?

for sure, everyone in the Philippines - are getting ready for another busy week up ahead. time really flies so fast when you are havin' fun - just as they say in a song from the 80's - was it Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine???!!! (insert smiley here please).

anyhoo, i hope that all the bloggers out there are also takin' stock of what's been happenin' all around - from politics to racketering, climate change to renewable energy sources, from loving to staying single and from bein' blue to thinkin' GREEN!

from whatever lane you choose in this soulful path of life, just be very sure that you will learn a little something from each step you take. that each curve leads you to great learning every time. and that the people you love will always be there to share each day & night with you...

well, these will be for now.

ciao, bella!

Soundtrippin on a September Mornin'

2009-09-03T17:14:00.000-07:00

hola bloggers!

i'm here again..just making chika to all of you out there. first off, it's another nice friday (and the weekend's upon us already!!!) ain't it grand that we have another billfold to think about (yey!). so instead of just moping around, why don't we go that happy place inside our hearts and say: chuvanes! hahaha, smile bloggers!

tc always. catch you again soon...ciao, bella!

Maogmang Setyembre!!!

2009-09-03T15:20:00.000-07:00

hola bloggers!

ilang tulog na lang, fiesta na ulet dito sa naga city & the rest of the Bikol region...hopefully, you could come and visit our Maogmang Lugar. as we say here in naga city - "Saen an sibog?" (Read: saan ang tsibog? hahaha). quite true, huh? so, bloggers and friends - have a nice day! Will update you with the details of our annual Fiesta real soon!

ciao, bella!

hello bloggers!!!

2009-09-02T16:48:00.000-07:00

to all the bloggers out there...mwah, wala lang!!! just happy to be on the right track again...ciao guys, i'm quite busy with a lot of stuff lang...pramis, i'll keep you all posted with what's goin' on from my end...don't forget to eat, stay clean, hobnob and be happy...pray too! mwah guys and gals!

ciao bella!!!

life buoy (byuwee)

2009-07-25T17:42:00.000-07:00

life is a series of continuous
unfolding expectations
it takes you by surprise
and leave you breathless.

love is life's precious gift
filled with distinct possibilities
it brings you to the heights
and could dump you to the depths.

life means you.
love means you and me
together we have life
love will make us one.

then, it is a full circle!
life happens...
LOVE comes after.

SERENDIPITY

2009-07-25T17:35:00.000-07:00

SHERYL CORNEJO: if two hearts were meant to be...no mattre how long it takes, how far they go, how tough it seems...SERENDIPITY will bring them together to share a life forever.

SAM MILANO: if these two hearts would ever meet, it should be for all the right reasons...fate, destiny, fate, kismet, chance encounter, fortunate incident, SERENDIPITY . but what if fate interferes? would they be like romeo and juliet ' star-crossed lovers' til eternity?

just can't get enough of FAB!!!

2009-04-04T06:17:00.000-07:00

I do have a LOT to be thankful for!

Regardless of how my heart aches with every disappointment, inspite of all the bitchy innuendos from my so-called 'friends' ( i don't need these crappy she-devils, hehe), amidst every hurtful powerplay, endless mind games and unbearable silence...I AM SO READY TO TAKE IT ALL IN!

Bring it on! I don't give a hoot if anyone (bitch or devil) wants to make mincemeat out of me. I'm way beyond caring. Haha, make me squirm if you want. I won't budge. Hehe, get your kind of high and try to put some dent on my nasty exterior. See if you can learn a thing or two from messing with me. It won't even matter anymore if you intend to make me angry since I am always 'anger brewing personified' (yep, you need to exert a great deal of effort to make me angrier).

After much thought and silence, I came to the conclusion that people (specifically MEAN girls!) will do everything to pierce that happy bubble you've been immersed in. Nasty words, nasty thoughts, nasty gossip, everything! Strange why these MEAN girls would even try to squirm their non-existence into your very exciting life. Bakit ba gusto pang umeksena ng mga babaeng ito sa buhay mo? Get a life 'ho! Try to find someone else to harrass, hehe.

Anyhoo, I am just going with the flow. Adapting a fatalistic attitude to all that's FAB in my life right now. If it happens, it happens. Just accepting that shit is there all the time. How I deal or un-deal with all that's bad is ultimately up to me. Sadness is always a part of the happy equation. Striking a balance makes life more intoxicating and challenging. Challenge is my other middle name. Nothing perks me up (aside from a cup of home-brewed coffee) more than a a new challenge every time. And I usually get things done (I revel in my personal achievement because I never take advantage of anyone just to achieve glory. I give due to anyone who's lent me their precious time & expertise. I don't gloat. I simply say a very heartfelt 'thank you').

AND To my rainbow, my honeypie, my babe, my friend and my special guy: I will always be here to love you. We may not have all that's perfect in this lifetime, at least ours is always a work in progress. We may not always have sunshine all day but we will always have moonlight to keep our nights dreamy. We may never fight loud because we've found our special way of talking without getting personal. We may not always have a lot of time together but our time apart makes us look forward to being with each other. The world may not allow us to loudly declare our unconditional love because we know where we stand in this relationship. Without question, without any doubt, I am here for you. Your silent strength gives me a reason to look beyond the insanity that creeps into my life every now and then. I always thank Him for keeping you safe. Thank you for being you and I couldn't ask for more.

Cheers!

DEADMA.DRAMA.KABADUYAN.TOTOONG BUHAY.ATBP.

2009-02-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

Aba! Valentine's Day 2009 na pala sa Sabado! Hehe.

Yep, the most commercialized day of the year is almost here. Ain't that grand? Romantic gestures, sexual undertones, chocolates, roses, wine, candlelit dinners, dates, kisses and everything that speaks of LOVE. There's even a so-called Black Valentine, which I've been an avid believer for almost three years. Not because of being loveless for quite some time but simply because the color black has such a very mysterious yet formal appeal to me.

But for this year, I may still wear black on the 14th. With a hint of print here and there, just not solid black anymore. I may not have a romantic date lined up on that day since we've decided to go out on feb 15 instead. In his words, "Dai kita maluwas sa valentine ta baduyon yan!". I just had to laugh at how he said those words. I had to agree with him, with a cringe too. Tables will be reserved, rooms will be fully booked, rates will be skyhigh, flowers will be impossibly unaffordable. You get the idea, right? And there's nothing wrong with a post-Valentine date, or a pre-Valentine date for that matter. Even a Valentine date, if that's your thing. What's important is: you both love each other unconditionally, everyday and every night. Whatever happens.

Here's my take on UNCONDITIONAL LOVE. For almost three months, I've been like a fish out-of-water. Altho I wasn't really sure where my feelings would lead me to, I gave it my best shot. Lambing, suyo, oras, papansin, may gifts pa! Much time, much patience, much love, much respect for him. Even when he was treating me with a not-too loveydovey friend muna tayo kind of affection (darn!), I still held on. I had to endure sleepless nights, cried some, lived on bits of his attention. All through it all, I continued my prayers.

Last Tuesday before I signed off from work, I sent him my goodbyes. It was such an empowering feeling to be able to tell him how much hurt he's caused me. Sad though with the idea that we never had the chance to really talk things over and maybe, give our relationship another chance. Had to move on, so I shrugged my shoulders and went out into the biting cold.

The next day, he came by. Deadma. Silence again. He stood too close for comfort. He smelled soooo gooood! I was only too aware of how he smelled - an irresistible blend of clean male scent, freshly-showered, and the cologne I gave him for Christmas! Aw gawd! Haha, I really controlled myself from grabbing his hand! When he left, I sat down and placed both of my hands on my forehead (aww sh_t talaga!, hehe). Then the silly grin never left my face for about 20 minutes.

Fasttrack to Friday, Feb. 6 - I was looking forward to making a vodka infusion with ripe pineapples for jammin' time with 2 friends over the weekend. As I was spacing out infront of the TV, I heard my mobile phone beep. Glancing over my inbox, there were two messages from him. What does he have to say this time? Two messages asking where I was, if I'm angry AND if I'm still angry. I called him, told him that I'm not angry, can never be angry at him.

"How are you?", he said.

"I have highblood because you took me for granted", I replied.

"You've been quarrelling me that's why", him.

"Really? And when was that?" I followed that up with "So, are we ok now?"

"Yes!", he affirmed.

"Promise?", I asked.

"Promise!", he confirmed.

But that was not enough for me...

"You could at least talk to me in person right now. Are you going to fetch me or we'll just meet somewhere?", I prodded.

"I will fetch you there. I'm going to your house right now," was his answer.

"Ok, make it around 8pm. I will just wash my face".

"I'll go there now", he insisted.

I freshened up, took my time eventhough he was already outside waiting for me.

He drove along the highway and started talking...

"When I read your messages I thought that you're really angry at me. You were saying goodbye! I got drunk last Tuesday night because I don't want you to say goodbye to me".

"And how do you think I felt when I heard that you're getting married next year?", I inquired.

"Who told you that? It's just talk".

"If you think you're the only one who have sources, I have my sources too."

"Who do you think I'm getting married to next year?"

"That's up to you", I retorted.

We never really had any heated argument. Instead, it turned out to be a fun and pleasant open forum. He never got passed his one and only excuse: I was quarreling him because he never responded when I asked: when did that happen. Finally, we were really able to talk about how things should go between us.

"You know, our 6th months is coming up soon," I reminded him.

"Yes, on Monday", he said.

"So, what's your plan? Are we going to start all over again, back at 1?".

"No, let's continue on to our 6th month. Let's forget all about the sad things that took place", his answer.

"You're going to make me cry again".

"Again?" He hugged me.

"Can I hear it?", I whispered while I listened to his heartbeat.

"I love you".

"I love you too. Can I kiss you now?".

His lips are always so kissably soft.

He had to smile when I told him that.

He took me home early. As we cruised along the busy highway, he started to sing. I was doing backup vocals. We sang together for the first time. He was really singing out loud, even way louder than the beeping horns of passing cars.

Another answered prayer. It was a happy night, for both of us.

xxxoooxxx

excerpts

2009-01-16T05:13:00.000-08:00

Yey! The weekend's upon us again! Isn't it amazing how days whiz by so fast - there and not there - in a heartbeat. Each day, nuance and sidelight could evoke all kinds of emotions. Adverse thoughts, too. A lot of laughter, a bit of pain, a load of frustration, a pinch of jealousy perhaps, or a combination of everything you go through. Workday or lazy day, it won't even matter. As long as there is learning and the chance to contribute to human greatness, there won't be any room for doubt, pressure or frustration. Carpe diem! Sieze the day! (Or in this case, seize the weekend!)

My work week is not yet over though. Still have a day's work waiting for me tomorrow, Saturday. A few more notches to tie, some loose ends to fix and time to prep up for next week's tasks. Better be on the lookout for whatever (SURPRISE!!!) lies ahead. Well, this only applies to me, given the sort of work environment I'm in: a pit of cramped, muddled, bottomless, endless smorgasboard. Pretty exciting, don't you think?

One of my tasks include handling tons of paperwork. Everything M.A.J.O.R., literally, begins from my work station. If there's a perk I enjoy at work, that would be meeting and talking to all types of people. I love it! As much as I enjoy talking, I'm also a good listener. Anecdotes keep me alive. Comic timing is a rare treat. Especially if it's heard from another person's point-of-view...

IS THIS SEAT TAKEN? Have you ever wondered why some banks don't have those numbered paper thingies anymore? That was my personal question 3 days before Christmas last year while I lined up at this bank. The same question was finally answered when I went to the same bank for work-related reasons this afternoon. Mr. Bank Manager regalled me with his 3-pronged analysis to his bank's decision to remove those numbered paper thingies. It was such a laugh trip! Mr. Bank Manager, seemingly poker-faced, with twinkling eyes and a colorful language repertoire, really leaves me in stitches! 1st: Supposedly, it was never their intention to make their clients sit on 50 seats until they reach the designated teller for each transaction. Instead, the process of lining up should have been this way: Imagine 50 seats (10 per row). As soon as the 1st 10 seats/clients have been served by the tellers, the next row of clients occupying the succeeding 10 seats should move up to the 1st row, so on and so forth. Thus, it won't be "sit down, sit down" on 50 seats but only "sit down, sit down" on 5 seats per client! But, this setup never materialized because of clients innate mitrust between themselves. 2nd: This is a good way to catch unscrupulous people posing as bank clients. He said, what's the point of waiting in line (read: 50 seats) just for the heck of it and not having any legit transaction at all? A shady character could be lurking behind hooded eyes, someone may be planning a holdup (hopefully not!) or another only wants to make the most out of the bank's airconditioned premises. Can you believe that some would even go to lengths and sell the number thingies they have to those who want to get ahead of the line! 3rd: The practice of "advance party" at the bank was minimized. In his words: "Nagkakarigos pa ngani ngaya su totoong kliyente, pero may pinakua na syang enot nin numero dawa bako man sya ito! Unfair man na maabot sya digdi na nakapag-lipstick na asin bagong karigos habang an iba nag-iskusar na maglinya and maghalat na apudon an saindang numero..." (read: the bank client leisurely takes a bath while another person takes a number for him. It's unfair that he/she goes to the bank looking good & freshened up while there are other bank clients who patiently wait for their turn..."). Very light-hearted explanation, right?

MINI CHANGES MAKE HIM A LITTLE BIT MORE...MINE? Hopefully, again and soon! Or it could be just wishful thinking. Call me hopeless. My oh my! I like it when a man takes charge of his life, his work, his passions and his daily challenges. Keeping busy because he's tired of just standing around in between projects, minimizing his usual dose of nightly sessions with beer buds and being more responsible. He has style & flair that never screams "Hey, look at me! I'm THE man!" (that's purely pathetic!). Instead, he holds that silent strength of character which can be compared to the delightfulness of an ecstatic moan. He is sexy, strong, smart, sweet and has a great smile. His eyes are like "liquid honey or dark molasses-mesmerizing-piercing without any bad intent". Irresistible, yes. But, a tad out-of-reach for me, for now. How it's come to this? It's entirely his decision and I respect that. Altho most of the time i just want to ask him for a hug! Haha. I'm just being a girl, seemingly content with making goo-goo eyes, drooling, daydreaming, loving every glance & keeping a safe distance. Until when? Hmmm.

Happy weekend, y'all!

2009

2009-01-10T08:40:00.000-08:00

Two words came to mind: infinity pool. The same words that may best describe the first few days of my new year. Underneath the calm surface lies a shadow of real turbulence marked by pros and cons, decisions and uncertainties, love and disappointment, learning and lies, honor and anarchy, humanity and mistrust.

I'm starting to wobble - something that shouldn't reach full-blown capacity or else (you paint the picture). There is the fear of drowning in my personal pit of self-doubt. Sometimes, the thrill of tackling and handling new challenges is no longer that empowering. I even wonder if love will ever be the same again. But taking baby steps everyday also seem to lead to grace under pressure. Trodding. Plodding. Numbness. Awareness. Reality. Truth.

The realization that love will never be enough to spare anyone from being hurt holds a real ring to it. It's even beyond understanding why even those you hold dear are the same people who will trample on you even without provocation. The universality of familial caring is just another way to blindside anyone with the best of intentions. Respect seems to be so rare, even among those who share the same bloodline. Passion suddenly disappears in the blink of an eye, without any rational reason or explanation. And just like that, you suddenly find yourself in a desolute state of being alone again: to ponder, dwindle, gasp and hang on to what's left of you.

Amidst everything and everyone, there is always enough hope to get you through the remaining 355 days of this year. Regardless of how bad the economy may be, how the northwest monsoon coldly blows, how loud you may hear you heart breaking, how your facial wrinkles seem to pile up on top of each other and how many times you fall flat on your nose, there is always a reason to say: Cheers!

Tangled in TunnelVision

2008-11-27T05:16:00.000-08:00

"Be careful of getting caught up with people who are careless or fickle, sam, especially when it comes to matters of the heart. Your tender emotions are too sensitive to endure the thoughtlessness, bluntness, and ultimately the rejection from someone who was simply not a good person for you to hang around with in the first place. Try not to invest yourself too emotionally in situations or people today."

That was included in one of my astro readings for today. I've always enjoyed horoscopes and anything mythic/mystic. I've always adhered to the idea that these readings have a grain of truth, may even be based on something true or purely generic yet fun coincidence. I also love the idea that, somehow, certain cosmic forces are out there waiting for the best time to shower on me their endless rays of light when everything seem hazy. But that's just me, hehe.

Almost two weeks have gone by yet I'm still on 100% PRETEND mode. If there's a title to which I can rightfully claim entitlement, that would be Ms. Pretentious (grin). I get affected by a lot of things way beyond crazy. I tend to analyze issues into specifics. I like to talk, talk and talk some more. I value the opinion of people I care about even when it would mean having them listen to what I need to say - even to the point of talking out loud EVERYTHING in shreds. Gosh! I can be a real pain when I feel the need for an instant fix of talking/listening/understanding and hearing advice (grin some more). The pretend mode really comes in handy especially when dealing with really impossible events and characters. In my book, this mode shields me from feeling each pain all over again. Another layer to add into my seemingly thick skin. It's a great coverup for all the tumult within me. Hurting deep inside, being able to freely talk about it and disguising the disappointment with pretense. Not an easy task but worth the effort.

You know where this leads to, right? So I'm still trying to breathe underwater. No, make it under sludge. I'm hoping that a kind of rational realization will hit me soon. Since my last post, I've been on an emotional tightrope of highs and lows, mostly lows. Made a promise to myself not to get affected by him, stay detached, act as if all's no biggie. TOUGH LUCK. When I wasn't paying him any attention, he starts a conversation. When I just look at him in the eye, he catches my eye too. When I don't talk to him, he taps my shoulder and say my name. I don't smile at him now, he smiles at me though. And there's this one practice we've been doing for almost 2 weeks now: when our eyes lock, we hold our unflinching gazes, as if we're looking deep into each other's soul, no smile passes between us, no flicker of hate (thankfully!), but there's only silence.

I don't want this silence to unnerve me. At the same time, I am so tired of making the first attempt to clear up the air. What makes it doubly tough is the fact that he's almost always within my line-of-sight and hearing range. That's twice the pain, two times the anger, double the effort of not caring anymore.

BUT, I still care about him. I still can't shake him off. Really. It's going to take some time, right? I've read somewhere that 60 days of "me-time" work wonders for anything that's love-related. I can go on with this drama that he started. I can shadowbox with the half-truths and empty lies. He can hurt me with his inherent indifference and I can do the same to him. He could stay away from me and I can stay away from him. He can just shrug me off to oblivion and I can even treat him like he's invisible.

I can step away slowly and leave him with an unbelievable loss, his loss. (AND that is worse than being un-dead.)

Options Of Optimism

2008-11-19T05:22:00.000-08:00

Consider this post as another update attempt, no more no less.

Last weekend, I gave in to my wanderlust, packed my overnight bag and rode the Lazyboy to Manila. Had to do personal errands and shop for early simple Christmas treats for people who've made a difference in my life this year. From the swanky malls to shoppers-filled Divisoria, I had my fill of scents, textures, tastes, prices, styles, everything!

I saw KC Concepcion (I am such a fan of this awesome girl!) during her 'Meet & Greet'. I did not buy her debut cd, instead had fun watching KC with Tina while we had dinner at Shakeys' which was conviently located within the Event Center of SM Marilao. And the food! I had my share of junk food, fast food, home-cooked meals, sweets, pastries, and all that's glorious. I don't mind putting on some pounds, eating is one guilty pleasure that's worth indulging into sometimes. Hehe.

Lots of talk time took place too, over that weekend. With my sis-in-law Puds, niece Joy and nephew Kurt, including the househelp, plus baby time with nephew HP. Had the chance to hangout with Tina, a nice and down-to-earth girl. Tina & I watched "The Women" and it was such a riot! We agreed on: "That's a movie that every girl should watch with her girlfriend/s. It's also a good date movie wherein a guy could (hopefully) learn a thing or two about women & their greatness." Parmesan & garlic popcorn, Cokes, bottled water, great company and funny movie...100% YES!

Now, it's back to the grinding stone for me. It's been three days of work already. Can you believe that I am actually having lots of laugh time at the office now? Amazingly unbelievable! Well, the workload is still as toxic as polluted fumes, but, the crunch is more bearable. Maybe I'm finally able to adjust my being a round hole to a very square peg. Or the thought that life is too short to be bitter and sad is an effective mantra to beat out stress. Whatever works, bring it on!

And just to balance the seemingly cheery scenario, I'll take a detour to my so-called lovelife. It's not blissful. It's not perfect. It's not just there. And I won't be taken in for another ride to relationship oblivion. The realization that I can love and hate this one guy (in the same breath, with the same intensity) even makes sense. Somehow, I am still buoyed by the thought that I did my best inspite of all his shortcomings and lame excuses. Maybe I've been blindsided - by what I thought I saw in him (that special something in him) - which he even failed to see on his own.

I tried to reach out to him but to no avail. Bad move.

As if his silence was not heartless enough, he even had the guts to text me: "Friend na muna kita ha. Tnx. Gudnyt!" (Friend for now. Tnx. Gudnyt!). What gives? Haha. I just had to give him a piece of what I need to say. The text I sent him last night went this way: "DON'T even think that I'm going to chase you around or that I will argue with you. I sent you this text only for my peace of mind. I want to treasure the good moments. At the same time, it hurts like hell not knowing where I stand. You want us to be friends for now. Like how? Friends with benefits, fling or bestfriends? Do you have any valid reason? Why can't you say that in person? I did my best, no regrets. I respected you. Dai ako nagkulang saimo. It seems you are not even ready to have me in your life. Altho it's unfair, I respect your decision." (No reaction from him, as expected).

TODAY...

I saw him.

I heard his voice.

I never looked at him.

What for?

He won't even look at me.

It won't hurt that much...ONE DAY.

My Rainbow

2008-10-22T07:59:00.001-07:00

I had a very early start at bridging the distance between the two of us. After a week of silence and stubborn indifference, I was ready to make peace and forget the fact that I've been thru so much pain because of loving my guy. No qualms, no regrets, whatever happens or nothing at all.

I sent him some text messages, reaffirming my true feelings for him. That no matter what, I will hold steadfast. I've apologized for any hurt which I may have brought on him. Needless to say, I also hinted that I'm not entirely to blame for this. That I am still trying to understand his reason, and that I respect his decision for staying away.

I've always believed that he is a good person. There's just something special about him. He's like a diamond in the rough - carat, color, cut. Even when subjected to extreme temperature and temper, he will still shine like a prism or a rainbow. That's what I saw in him. AND I will always look at him that way.

The day's hours went too fast. Made more toxic by all the craziness at the office. How I was able to handle three ASAP requests (from Naga, from Manila & from Cagayan) in less than an hour was beyond me. There's hope for me, I may really have superpowers that I am not aware of! Hehe.

Upon the prodding of a very good friend at past 8pm, I called him up. I was about to hang up because he wasn't answering. And when he finally took my call...

"Who's this?", he asked in a soft tone.

"Who am I? This is Sam", I replied with the same tone.

He asked, "How are you?"

"I'm not ok and I'd like to say sorry. How about you? Are you ok now? Are you still angry at me? Have I annoyed you too much?", I asked him back.

"Where are you?", he asked

"I'm here at home. Where are you now? Where have you been?", were my questions for him.

"Just here at home too. It's ok, Sam. I'm not angry at you. Too bad, I've got to go for now. I have to join the boss again tonight. He's actually downstairs as we speak. And I'm not lying to you about it", he said.

"It's fine with me. Have fun tonight. Thank you for this. Again, I'm really sorry if I offended you in any way", I answered with a smile.

"Ok".

(I texted him with: "Don't worry about me, I'm ok now. Thanks to you. Take care." To which he promptly replied: "You too." - short but sweet, like always)

Finally, I was able to really breathe again. My grin turned into a very wide smile! I whispered my thanks for this answered prayer. Wow! All the uncertainties that I had during the past week disappeared. This is a fresh start. Words of love were not spoken tonight, so no expectations. Rushing and being rash are not the operative keypoints now.

Taking a chance, regardless of the outcome, will always be worth it. So happy I did!

After more than 72 hours...

2008-10-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

I still don't understand the reason why he demanded for a cool-off.

I've cried myself to sleep.

Alone time has turned into something that I don't look forward to.

Each time I close my eyes, it's his face I see.

I've been trying to find the comic side to this unwelcome sadness.

Laughed it off, to no avail.

Pray.

Shrugged the emptiness only to discover more emptiness.

Grief, somehow, has offered a certain kind of comfort.

I haven't sent him any text message, haven't called him, haven't seen him, haven't talked to him.

Have talked about him.

Have thought about him.

Have wondered if he's thinking about me too. (I simply don't have any way of knowing.)

When I heard his voice over the telephone last Friday, altho he called the office NOT to talk to me, the effect on me was instant. I felt a glimmer of hope. Was it his way to reach out? Did he sound sad? Was the call intentional? I will never know, but I'd like to think so. (Please humor me on this one, again.)

I am blessed to have wonderfully supportive family and friends around who are willing to listen to everything I have to say, who are ready to pounce on my bf if he'll ever show his face, who never got tired of my over-analysis of the issues and who've prayed with me. The same persons who've shared their reactions - some want to smack his face with beer bottles, others would enjoy torturing him with goons, or those who would like to pinch him just to put some sense back in his head. Varied degrees of hate alright, typically human.

While my friends concocted ideas of knocking his head down, I've thought otherwise. His shabby treatment of me don't need to be dealt with revenge. If my friends can't wait to put him in his place, I'd still go through lengths to stand by him - with blinders on.

I'm not perfect, he isn't perfect. We are perfect for each other? Hopefully.

???!!!???!!!

2008-10-16T05:43:00.000-07:00

"Hi honeypie. I want to have sex with you tonight. You have until 7.30pm to make up your mind. If you're interested, textback. If you don't want to, it's up to you. Point is, I've invited you."

That was the text message I sent my bf last Wednesday Oct. 15, before lunch. I've never sent any guy an indecent proposal before, just him. You see, I've ran out of options of spending downtime with him. Tried the sweet approach (didn't work), been very understanding (no dice), never demanded for more than what he can share with me (which was turning into NIL), didn't nag (peace not war), always tried to make excuses for his absence and his constant backing-out-of our scheduled dates-at the last minute (simply because he was feeling lazy to go out). Not the type to have grand expectations about our relationship, I just accepted everything in stride. For the simple reason: I really love my bf. Which was more than enough reason for me to stand by him and not give up on what we have.

All at once, it was 3pm. I did a double take because I saw him inside the other room. He looked so grim, he was actually scowling. My bf is always a jolly person, full of humor and fun. He's a good man. I was actually surprised and a bit scared when I saw his black mood - it was written all over his handsome face. I'd like to add that he is also tall, dark and handsome (at least for me, haha). He was out of the office as fast as he came in. So I texted him to: "smile. it's nice to see you today".

Fasttrack to 7.32pm. My heart was pounding. I dialed his number. He answered after my third attempt to call.

"Sam, I was taking a bath", he said. (Good! I thought. He's getting ready for our date.)

"C'mon hon. Let's go out tonight."

"Where are we going?", he asked.

"Let's meet and just be together."

"Ok.."

I sent him a message to inform him of our usual meeting place. He replied with: "Sam, let's just be together tomorrow. I'm going out with boss tonight, boys' night".

Not again? No way! I replied with: "Do you want me to ask permission from the boss that you have to be with me for our date because you're my bf? I can always tell him that. Why do you always have an excuse when I'm involved?" I was doing my best to keep my temper in check.

He sent me another text at 7.44pm: "We'll talk tomorrow. I'll spend time with you then."

Mine was: "Why do you always do this? Don't you love me anymore?"

No reply. I repeated: "Don't you love me anymore? What's your answer?" Still no reply.

Except for this, at 8.00pm: "I think it would better for both of us to cool-off for a while, to give us time to think."

My reply: "No. We will not have any cool- off. We will talk tomorrow. Didn't we agree that we will work on staying together? (Walang bawian - our agreement when we made things official between us 2 months and 1 week ago).

Then, at 8.05pm: "It doesn't matter. You are always quarreling me. The thing that I hate most is when anyone fights me all the time. This is enough. Don't forget, I loved you and I never cheated on you."

WHAT???!!!! WHERE DID THAT CAME FROM???!!! AND WHAT'S THIS ABOUT CHEATING ANYONE??? HUH??? WAS I CHEATING ON HIM??? I DON'T THINK SO!!!

Even when I was so pissed off at him, I still managed to textback: "I'm sorry. I have no idea how to make it up to you. If you want time, ok. If you want space, ok. I love you and I am willing to fight for you. But if this cool-off is what you really want, who am I to stand in your way? Again, I'm sorry."

He never replied again. Even now.

I'm really hurt. I will never understand how he could love me and just give up. His reason: I was always quarreling him - his petty reason for this cool-off. I wasn't even doing that. Maybe he just needed a lame excuse to bail. He wasn't man enough to show his balls and stand by his promises to stay with me, no matter what. He was so unfair, maybe he never really loved me at all. He just played around with my feelings. He took the cowardly way out and made everything my fault. I was his alibi. His bloated male ego and stupid pride got the best of him. Maybe he suddenly got selective amnesia and forgot the unconditional love I gave him without asking for anything in return.

I love him. More than he will ever know. I am willing to go through lengths to fight for him. I've been kind, patient, loyal and never tore him away from his habits, lifestyle, guy friends, and other things he's been preoccupied with. I've accepted him, quirks and everything. Even if I always took the back seat in our relationship, I never asked for more than scraps of his affection, time or presence because I'm secure with how I feel for him. All he had to do was look me in the eye and just smile. I've told him that no matter how bad each workday may be, I'll be ok because he loves me. That until I hear him say to my face that he doesn't love me anymore, I will keep on loving him. AND he's aware of all that because I told him.

Didn't he insult me when he rejected my indecent proposal??? I'm not perfect but I have really nice skin, no bad breath, no off-odor, disease-free, pretty and I always bathe. WTF??? Most of my guy friends even said: "What's wrong with your bf? Rejecting a proposal like that is not a typical guy reaction. Is he gay? If he ever show his face to us, we'll beat the hell out off him! He's a disgrace to all men because if a bf really loves his gf, and she offered something so special, what's his reason to refuse her?."

I'm still trying to put some sense to it all. The pain in my heart will linger. Waiting is such a lonely verb. I've been trying to see the comic side of all the torture he's inflicted. My fault? Allowing him to treat me badly. But then the realization that I'm still giving it my best shot could get me through my longing, the emptiness and the silence. Somehow, I can say that I have no regrets. I'm keeping the faith, constantly praying that soon, things between us will work out, and that I will be able to see myself in his eyes again.

But for now, I am keeping my distance. Giving him what he wants. Allowing him to find what he's looking for. I'm not making any first move. It's up to him to act, whenever that is.

I can wait. I will wait. Until he comes to his senses. Love gave us a reason to find each other. Hopefully, love will give us another chance to complement our humanity...together.

Venus Women, Martian Men

2008-10-13T04:51:00.000-07:00

The polarity of being x (female chromosome) and y (male chromosome) is always mind-boggling. Inspite of very obvious differences, a balance between the two sexes can also be achieved. At best, they complement each other - whether it's purely platonic, extremely romantic, or (by golly!) tinged with pure lust. On its downside, the sharpest claws can rip out even the heart of an insensitive brute, hehe.

I've always been amazed by men and all their weird traits. Amidst all their macho behavior, there's always something special in every guy. Learning what makes them act the way they do is just half of the surprise. The other half is learning how to deal with their unbelievable ways of not keeping their promises, not honoring their words, backing out of scheduled dates simply because they're 'feeling lazy' (believe me, 'feeling lazy' was his excuse) and taking us for granted. Go ahead, add more to my list! But, these guys are also wonderful quirks of Nature. Catch them in a good mood and they're agreeable to everything. Guys can be so loving (more so if they know you'll be returning the favor with more affection, hehe). They make each day an unlikely combo of great-sad-happy-wonderful-funny-whatever.

AND..It's really fun being a girl! More so, if there's one guy who makes you feel cranky, sees you at your worst but still loves you no matter how much you annoy him sometimes.

* read from one of the blogs i came across weeks ago:
The Advantages Of Being A Woman (25 reasons why it's better to be a WOMAN!)*
1. We got off the Titanic first.
2. We get to flirt with systems support men who always return our calls, and are nice to us when we blow up our computers.
3. We can be groupies. Male groupies are called stalkers.
4. We can get off speeding fines by crying.
5. We've never lusted after a cartoon character or the central female figure in a computer game.
6. Taxis stop for us.
7. Men die earlier, so we get to cash in on the life insurance.
8. We don't look like a frog in a blender when dancing.
9. We can hug our friends without wondering if she thinks we're gay.
10. We can hug our friends without wondering if WE'RE gay.
11. New lipstick gives us a whole new lease on life.
12. It's possible to live our whole lives without ever taking a group shower.
13. If we forget to shave, no one has to know.
14. We can congratulate our team-mate without ever touching her butt.
15. If we have a zit, we know how to conceal it.
16. We never have to reach down ever so often to make sure our privates are still there.
17. We have the ability to dress ourselves without help.
18. We can talk to people of the opposite sex without having to picture them naked.
19. If we marry someone 20 years younger, we're aware that we look like an idiot.
20. Our friends won't think we're weird if we ask whether there's spinach stuck in our teeth.
21. There are times when chocolate really can solve all your problems.
22. We'll never regret piercing our ears.
23. We can fully assess a person just by looking at their shoes.
24. We know which glass was ours by the lipstick mark.
25. We have enough sense to realize that the easiest way to get out of being lost is to ask for directions.

The Advantages Of Being A Man...(25 reasons why it's better to be Man!)
1. Your ass is never a factor in a job interview.
2. The same hairstyle lasts for years, maybe decades...
3. Your last name stays put.
4. The garage is all yours.
5. Wedding plans take care of themselves.
6. You never feel compelled to stop a friend from getting laid.
7. Car mechanics tell you the truth.
8. You don't give a rat's ass if someone notices your new haircut.
9. Hot wax never comes near your pubic area.
10. Same work... more pay (sad but true).
11. Wrinkles---so what? Adds character.
12. You don't have to leave the room to make emergency crotch adjustments.
13. Wedding Dress: $2000; Tux rental: $100.
14. People never glance at your chest when you're talking to them.
15. New shoes don't cut, blister, or mangle your feet.
16. One mood, ALL the time, fits all occasions.
17. Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds.
18. A five-day vacation requires only 1 suitcase.
19. You can open all your own jars.
20. You can quietly watch a game with your buddy for hours without ever thinking "He must be mad at me.".
21. If another guy shows up at the party in the same outfit, you just might become lifelong friends.
22. You are not expected to know the names of more than five colors.
23. You don't have to stop and think which way to turn the nut on a bolt.
24. You are unable to see wrinkles in clothes.
25. Your orgasms are real. Always.

Lease

2008-10-05T04:02:00.000-07:00

As long as I can remember, I often go with my gut feel. That, together with mental ability and legwork. Call it instinct, intuition, hindsight, foresight, impulse. People even say there's nothing wrong if your action is based on mere gut feeling. Others say that impressions don't last. Some might say the gut is just gas inside one's tummy. Whatever your take is, just chalk it up to daily experiences.

Now, here's my story - which took place on a supposedly very uneventful Friday evening, Oct 4, 2008...

Unable to shake off the 2-day tiredness that's been creeping up my bones, having only managed restless sleep, too much work, relentless errands, relationship unpredictability and nightly tutorials, I was looking forward to lazing infront of the TV for another cable marathon. I was pratically asking JM to speed up our tutorials on the premise that I want to go home and catch some sleep. The 4th grader simply flashed me his trademark smile, not even rushing. Ah, little boys!

Then, gunshots echoed through the stillness.

"Are those gunshots?", JM asked me, all the while looking down on his notebook.

"I don't know. An early New Year celebration, maybe?", I answered.

We just shrugged the sounds off. Then, E went inside the study room.

"Hey, authorities are lining up the street outside. I was told to lock the gates but then Sam is still here with you MJ. Will be locking up after your study hour".

After 10 minutes, I started to walk home. Near the corner store, I saw the first wave of onlookers and an ambulance. As I turned on my corner, there were patrol cars, composite forces (special ops and intelligence), men wearing shirts with letters like: NBI, CIDG, PSO, SWAT, high-calibre guns and more onlookers. Even my friend, Public Safety Office (PSO) head L, just gave me a small wave when I called out his name.

I approached an ER guy.

"What happened here, sir?"

"A shootout took place here a while ago caused by a robbery-holdup. Two died in the encounter, one didn't. Those robbers belong to a syndicate."

Picture this, my house is just one house away from the eskinita where the incident occured. I was out for tutorials, Mom was in church for a first Friday Mass, what if those robbers strode in our house to take cover?

Most of all, what if I acted on what my gut's been telling me? To just go home and leave MJ to study on his own? I felt my own fear as my knees shook. I held on to our gate and tried to catch my breath. Had I left earlier, worst case scenario? I could have been caught in the crossfire. (Was informed much later that before the gunshots were fired, the authorities were in an attack-ready-defensive stance just across the street from our house). I uttered a prayer.

The shots were fired past 6pm. The crowd dispered at 9:10 pm. All that was left were dried up blood on the street, the stench of death and a lit candle.

This Sunday's almost over. Much been aired on the radio and said on the news about last Friday's encounter. Fear still clings on the edge of my subconscious. I am trying to channel my nervous energy in a more positive way. I don't feel invincible for being spared from any stray bullet. What I know is; I've been given another great chance to do good things in my so-called life as a 35-something woman. To love unconditionally. To accept people without prejudice. To live life without grand expectations.

To be thankful for the here and now.

scrap the crap!

2008-10-01T06:23:00.000-07:00

So what's new?

Nothing much - except for another undeserved tongue-lashing from the devil's gf. She was literally spewing out fire and hail. Such a pretty face with an unbelievable storage of vile words. Bad as it may sound, she blamed me for messing up some papers, again. I did not. It was the other girl's fault because she never gave me the list (but she claimed otherwise). Had to defend myself by saying: "I don't have a copy of that list. Each time I get anything from these people, I clip it in a folder. There's nothing in the folder.' (how can I mess up anything when I don't have anything to mess it up with? figure that out!).

AND THEN, HELL BROKE LOOSE! IT WAS BRUTAL!

Well, I don't give a hoot.

Whenever the devil's gf starts crapping up her entrails, I just look her in the face and transport myself into a happier place filled with rainbows, clouds and waterfalls. In my head, I'm humming lalalalala, as the devil's gf's spitefulness bounces off me. Works all the time for me, hehe. But after the undeserved verbal abuse, the left part of my upper back hurts. Short yet intense bursts of back pain that lingers for a while. But it will never stay. Just think of rainbows, clouds and waterfalls.

Humming now...lalalalala.

Salamat Po INA

2008-09-24T08:39:00.000-07:00

ABOVE: 2 pics taken during the Traslacion
(Sept 12, 2008)
BELOW: fiesta food (Sept 22, 2008)
My home cookin' servings,
except for the sotanghon & palabok.

sotanghon

lasagna with herbed bechamel sauce

palabok

red ice tea with vodka & green lemons

roast turkey

country style pork with oyster sauce,
bell pepper and roasted walnuts

lumpiang shanghai

fried chicken
(NOT in pictures: potato salad, gulaman,
wacky choco cake, barbeque, rice)

Maogmang Fiesta Bicolandia!

2008-09-15T23:39:00.000-07:00

The Peñafrancia fiesta, with all its gaiety, is an endearing and enduring Bicolano tradition that already spans almost 300 years. Much has been said about it but nothing comes close to being part of the event.

It won’t matter if you’re one of the tourists who’s only passing by or a true-blue Oragon because for 10 days, Naga City is filled with all kinds of merriment – from processions, parades, street dances, marching bands, parties, confetti and fun.

Sometimes, there is an occasional mishap, maybe two or three. As long as you’re open to every kind of piety manifestations, the varying degrees of sun and shade, gastronomic delights, mad rush of traffic and onlookers, funfare and religious fervor – then, you are always welcome Sa Maogmang Lugar!

Last Sept 12, the annual Peñafrancia fiesta formally started with the Traslacion. This opening salvo is always a miracle to watch and participate in.

People from all walks of life, devotees of Ina and her voyadores (barefoot, able-bodied men albeit tipsy) gather together to be with Her from the Basilica Minore to the Naga Cathedral where She’ll stay for 9 novena days. From the traslacion (transfer of Ina’s image), the Blessed Virgin of Peñafrancia is accompanied by her voyadores. These unsung group of men, I’d like to call them Ina’s special heroes, are often clad in color-coded shirts depending on their designated parishes. They often earn the ire of others because of their unintentional light stupor, but there’s an obvious reason for imbibing a shot of agua de pataranta. That is, to somewhat mask the smell of male sweat and humanity, maybe even avoid vertigo. Step by step, street by street, every shove, push or blister don’t seem to bother these voyadores as they guard the andas of Ina, being careful not to loose their hold on Her. And they always bring Her safely to the Cathedral Arch where more devotees anxiously wait for their arrival. As Her image is once again enshrined, Archbishop Legazpi then says a prayer and bestows the voyadores with a blessing thru Her miraculous intercession. Ina is often accompanied by the Image of the Divino Rostro.

Another tradition-infused event is the Fluvial Procession on the eve of her feast day which usually falls on the third Saturday of September. If the traslacion formally ushers in the festivities, the fluvial procession is the highlight. Ina is carried by her voyadores to the banks of Naga River where a barge is anchored. Just like the traslacion, only the males are allowed to participate. Ina traverses the waters amidst shouts of “Viva la Virgen! Viva!” and flutters of white panyos.

Dagos po kamo sa Naga!

Taking Notes

2008-09-03T03:31:00.000-07:00

To live a life that's worth blogging about...

Almost two years and counting, I'm still grasping on straws.

Events, both good and bad, led to who I am today. Most days, I am quite normal but never average, hehe. Lately, I'm slowly morphing into a different sub-species altogether. It's a chronic change that I've accepted. Been starting to kick my hooves up, randomly spitting out a mean remark or two, swearing like a tabacco-chewing meanie, being intolerant to any kind of abuse and not allowing myself to be distracted from my goal of delivering a 100% effort in any given workday. I'm still (trying! to be) nice, polite, kind, understanding and sweet, but then, being a no-nonsense girl is way better.

Life isn't that boring now. Altho I've diverted from my usual "safe mode", my humane traits are intact. I only react when needed. I don't engage in physical violence and verbal attacks are left to a minimum. If I can still help it, I just shut my mouth and suffer in silence. Yep, I am a work in progress. My so-called creative approach to handle life's blows is a result of trial and error. Not all turn out remarkable, some even boomerang.

Masaya at makulay naman ang buhay. Which comes to mind one of my fave songs "When I See You Smile", by Bad English. Para bang disc jockey ulet ako nito ah. Maiba naman, this song is dedicated to me by one special guy (anonymity is absolute!). May kilig factor nga eh dahil di ko naman alam na he thinks of me that way at all. (Excuse me if I'm swooning like a crazed high school student).

Sometimes I wonder
How I'd ever make it through,
Through this world without having you
I just wouldn't have a clue
(my thoughts have wandered in the same path of misguided intentions, indecisiveness, plain cluelessness...)

'Cause sometimes it seems
Like this world's closing in on me,
And there's no way of breaking free
And then I see you reach for me
(hmmm..nuances of the concept of meeting him/her halfway seems to reverberate from these lines)

Sometimes I wanna give up
I wanna give in,
I wanna quit the fight
And then I see you, baby
And everything's alright,
everything's alright
(some battles are worth fighting for. some are just not. so, know your battles and fight fair. often, you need to be shaken off your feet to know who will be there to catch you when you fall...)

When I see you smile
I can face the world, oh oh,
you know I can do anything
When I see you smile
I see a ray of light, oh oh,
I see it shining right through the rain
When I see you smile
Oh yeah, baby when I see you smile at me
(there's nothing like a smile that's freely given and shared...be sure to smile back, but only if you really mean it. there's nothing more pathetic than a plastic smile)

Baby there's nothing in this world
that could ever do
What a touch of your hand can do
It's like nothing that I ever knew
("one touch of her hand and I know that it's for real", from Prince Charming Cinderella animated movie - and who says that fairy tales don't have fun/romantic lines?)

And when the rain is falling
I don't feel it,
'cause you're here with me now
And one look at you baby
Is all I'll ever need,
you're all I'll ever need
(makuha ka sa tingin? as they say: the eyes are the soul's windows. one look and words may not be needed. but hey, be sure to verbalize your thoughts too. hindi lahat ng tao may kakayahang magbasa ng isip, di ba?)

Chorus

Sometimes I wanna give up
I wanna give in,
I wanna quit the fight
And then I see you baby
And everything's alright,
everything's alright
(some battles are worth fighting for. some are just not. so, juat know your battles and fight fair. often, you need to be shaken off your feet to know who will be there to catch you when you fall...)

So right...
(almost perfect, but always allow a room for error - this makes for a better partnership.)

Cheers y'all!

My "L" List

2008-08-16T08:36:00.000-07:00

There's always something definite about any list. It is a purposeful reminder of things to do, places to go, people to meet, dates to remember, things to buy, etc. Having a list is a very easy memory aid, especially for those who are slooowwly and conveniently losing their capacity to recall certain tasks.

So, here goes some of mine: Like it or leave it? Up to you.

LOSER - Isang walang kwentang gago na walang isang salita (read: a very inconsiderate prick). Yep, the intro above is just a femme ploy to share my recent mis-encounter with one. Taken in for a ride again, what else is new? Guess I'll always be jaded and all I have to show for it is scar tissue. LESSON LEARNED.

LOVE - or the LACK thereof.

LUCK - some are just born with it, others don't seem to have it. Lady Luck always smiles to everyone. Team it up with hard work and fair play.

LOOKING - for one good reason to believe in ever having a real relationship with a guy who will not take me for granted. This is a spinoff of the aforementhioned mis-encounter. In my book, some guys have seemingly mastered the art of deception, dishonesty and deceit. Why are some guys unable to hold on to what they've said? Wala lang, ni hindi man lang mag-sorry sa pag-iwan sa'yo sa ere. (The inconsiderate prick doesn't even have the guts to say sorry for leaving you stranded).

LAUGHTER - is always the best medicine. It's cheap, readily available if freely given, the almost perfect cure for anything. May be enjoyed in solitude or in groups.

LIES - it doesn't matter what shade (white lies, grey lies, black lies, etc) or degree because lies always backfire. Take it from Billy Joel, "Honesty is such a lonely word, everyone is so untrue..."

LIFE - is a heady experience all the time. One of the best gifts ever given to us by the One Up There. Each day's end doesn't matter if a bit of this life failed to make any difference to the bigger world.

LUST - may be vital or not. May depend on one's need, preferences, timing, belief, or values.

LECHON, LIEMPO, LECHE FLAN - in order: roast pig, prime cut of meat, egg custard. Yummy, just eat in moderation.

LASTLY - hope you got it by now, the guy's name starts with the letter L. I won't even spell out his real name, it's the least I can do. I'm not THAT mean anyway, hehe.

Hitch

2008-07-30T08:11:00.000-07:00

I AM NOT A LIAISON OFFICER.

What started off as a no-choice trip to Catanduanes has become an 'unexpected/added responsibility'. It's now my 'unofficial/official task' to go to other engineering districts to either: submit, confer, update, meet, find, etc. Mostly legwork, specifically liaison officers' legwork. The boss gave me the assignment to go to these districts in case of emergency (read: the real liaison officer is sick/had to go to another district, deadline of submission of documents, on such short notice and even during transport stike). All that and more, including my other duties at the office.

What used to be a once-in-a-blue-moon activity has become a regular undertaking. Last week, I logged in every other day commute. This week, if not for a much-needed bedrest, I could have made daily roadtrips to places I've never been to. All I have were verbal directions, trip allowance, endorsement, names of people I've yet to meet, papers, and positive thinking that each meeting will be hitch-free. The unbearable heat of the sun, unpredictable rain, seemingly absent officers, far-flung (hehe) districts could have made these trips worthwhile. Granting that the heat did not trigger much of my intense allergic reaction to sun exposure, each adventure made me unreasonably tired, frantic and impatient.

Imagine being in a strange place with strangers acting strangely.

Imagine getting to your destination during lunchbreak and upon returning in the afternoon, the lunch hours have been extended because no one is there yet to accommodate the purpose of your visit.

Imagine standing along the highway or infront of a tindahan to wait for a mini bus because the terminal is at a very far distance from where you're standing. It's either raining, sunny or both.

Imagine where to eat lunch when there is no canteen to find within the vicinity of some districts.

Imagine being thought as a guy simply because your nickname is Sam! Yep, it happens all the time, even during phone calls. But, I am really glad to see anyone do a double-take when they see me as Sam, a 100% certified girl. And having a guy's name is always a good conversation starter.

Every roadtrip held some surprises. Unexpected challenges may be fun too.

UptheHill

2008-07-29T08:34:00.000-07:00

Majestic Mayon Volcano,
One of Bicol's Best Tourist Destination
(as viewed from Lignon Hill)

Chadd & I

(with the mountains, ocean & humanity as backdrop)

Interesting shot?!
(bamboo railing, etc.)

Smile!

Overloking:
View from Nature's Porch

Strike A Pose!

HELLO

2008-07-27T07:22:00.000-07:00

Our first call...

Wow! what a way to end/start this week!

I got to hear my fave ym person' s voice via ym call. Ain't that grand? Eventhough my call wasn't coming through, it did...after 3 attempts. Patience & perseverance are always key elements in just about anything.

His voice is nice. There's a hint of witty playfulness. Good humor inspite of being in a quiet mood. Granted that it was only a short exchange, I just can't help but smile ('',) ...

Thanks, sweets!

For: Dr. McDreamy of Naga

2008-07-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

The veil of worldwide web incognito is always appealing to shy (well, kinda shy) people like me. However, the ease of hitech is not a reason to just forget about boundaries or to step on others' feelings and sentiments. Owning up to what's written on personal blogs is a must.

That's the reason why I've taken this time, at 15 minutes past midnight on a Friday, to post a ShortTake for Dr. McDreamy of Naga - It's never my intention to put you in a predicament of any kind. As mentioned in my previous post (which I've promptly edited), I am not privy to any information about you and if I've gone beyond the limits of responsible blogging, may I ask for your dispensa again.

(P.S. I may not always see Dr. McDreamy of Naga everyday and I am not trying to win him over with words or anything. But I know that he is an awesome and respectable guy who's always ready with his trademark smile, gentle ways, silent good looks and Hippocratic abilities.)

That Week In July 2008

2008-07-19T09:44:00.000-07:00

"Tuloy pa rin ang buhay, kahit wala na si Dad..."

"Lahing Enciso"

"Lights on the Ceiling"

"The Milanos"

"with my pretty sisters"

"nephew Maxxis at 5 months"

"Black..."

Mid-Midlife

2008-07-07T07:30:00.000-07:00

An officemate told me this afternoon that I should get married, asap.

I had to smile and tell her that it's never easy to just commit to a guy who's not even in that level yet. Or be with a guy who's not within one's immediate circle of acquaintances. Or be part of a twosome when one is by his/her lonesome (read: certified single).

Wow. The pattern's so striking I never even noticed it.

Lately, I came to a realization that most of my hetero-rebound relationships were with guys who were categorically single (never married, divorced, single dads) talented and gwapo.

Been with a guy who never stood up for me when a irate ex-gf badmouthed me infront of our colleagues many years ago. Hell, I told him to butt off my life while tears were streaming down my face. Then I had to do my on-air board duties with only minutes to spare. The show had to go on. A week later, a rival radio station offered me a better deal (call that an answered prayer), so I packed my bags and left.

There was also this dude who made people read my letters for him. The same dude who told people that we've broken up altho we were still a couple. I confronted him on his way to the male CR - "You haven't broken up with me yet so I'm breaking up with you now."

Then there was this smart trainer who appreciated my wit, but his jealous ex-wife told me to stay away via a mobile call.

There was this younger guy who got jealous of everything - my friends, radio callers, even my radio job.

A bit farther down the road, I met this amazing guy who was too good to be true - to his words. Yep, he had to marry somebody else. Then a few Valentine's ago, we renewed our friendship and his wife found out. She sent me an email, on a particular Feb. 14, ordering me to stop contacting her husband pronto.

I don't play around with emotions or do mind games. I know when I'm not wanted and I stay away. Aside from love, loyalty and understanding, I can offer and give my partner "a lot of trust" - what he does when I'm not around is his choice and decision. My trust is his to value and it's up to him to take care of it or break it. He need not worry about me asking for his password or email details. I don't snoop around cellphones or private documents. If there's one thing I adhere to that would be: the person who asks first should be the one who pays - during dates, that is. But, I am just happy to split the bill with my guy, no questions asked. I'm never a freeloader. I keep my word but I never make grand promises. Naturally, I expect my guy to hold on to his word as well. Time and timing is always key. Being late sometimes may be tolerable but not showing up (after saying otherwise) is vile.

Love for me means complimenting each other. Striking a balance between two opposites. Being there when you'd rather be somewhere else. It's what my younger sister in the UK said to her husband: "Let's just watch tv this weekend. Even for a day, let go of your pc games and be bored with me watching tv" (He obliged to his wife's wishes. My brother-in-law is such a sweet guy.)

I can't say much about the physical aspect of a relationship. There are other creative ways to express one's feelings without too much heated intimacy or sex. For instance, taking a lot of cold shower, walking, exercise, sleeping alone, saying a prayer, drinking water, cooking, just kissing or sharing bear hugs, etc. (*grin*)

Today, my heart and mind are both in a good place. No great expectations. Just going with the flow. Allowing room for surprises. Glad to be part of something that may or may not be anything at all. If it happens, it happens. If it doesn't, life goes on. Keeping it real. Glad to be dancing in circles.

Like these lyrics from Say It Again by Marie Digby:
"And it feels like it`s the first time
That anybody's ever brought the sun without the rain
And never in my whole life
Have I heard words as beautiful as when you say my name.."

Just Another Friday Night...NOT!

2008-06-20T05:44:00.000-07:00

There's a storm brewing within the Philippines' Area of Responsibility (PAR). Indeed, the words "calm before the storm" really holds true tonight. Some areas here may already be experiencing heavy rains, wind gustiness, no electricity, flooding in low-lying areas, flash floods or evacuation. In Naga City, altho we are on Signal Number 3, it's still relatively calm and peaceful. Slightly windy, no downpour yet. It's silent outside, coupled with a starless dark sky.

I've kept myself updated on Typhoon Frank - via the radio, news and internet. Being such a sucker for information (even info overload if needed), I get immense satisfaction to know a bit of anything that's important (or not so important). Weather satellite tracks, reports, coordinates, etc. Knowledge is power because in times like these, staying informed is key.

I'm praying that this typhoon move away and hit the Pacific Ocean instead. Then, my country will be spared from its dire consequences.

My Happier Take Tonight: Boston Celtics is this year's NBA Champ! Hopefully, rooting for the Celtics won't be counted as disloyalty to the Rockets. I'm a "Rockets Girl Forever", eventhough they were unable to make it to the finals. My cheers during the best of seven games focused on the Celtics because of a fun bet with my fave YM person. Naturally, I won our bet. It was a fun victory, made more so because he's such a good sport. Yep, the season may be over as this year's Big Three made their own mark in NBA history.

As for me, after winning the bet - it's just like having homecourt advantage.

Oh Happy Day!

2008-06-06T06:33:00.000-07:00

It's been busy, hectic, fast, and urgent - all throughout my work week. Been all over the place, running around, doing errands, meeting deadlines, updating records, and dealing with paperwork. Trying so hard to stay afloat to avoid unnecessary backlog. No downtime either. Even after office hours, I still had to meet some bank people to get the documents needed for next day's work. Super proactive-ness? Yep, you could say that. Guess nothing could be worse than not being prepared. Except for the expected body aches and pains at the end of each working day.

The past days did not hold much promise to my personal life. Bleak long nights. Uneasy slumber. Troubled thoughts. Empty dreams. Numbness in my heart. Unexplained tiredness. Only prayers gave me solace, each time.

And then...
Today, oh happy Friday June 6, 2008, my life did a 360.
Woohoo! Oh, happy Friday! TGIF!

I was able to accomplish most of the work goals I've set for myself this week.

Saw my college guidance counselor and teacher at a bookstore. Bit of chitchat there.

Had fun with one of our liaison officers by way of translating Tagalog fruit names into English.

Renewed smart tech/playtime with JM, the now-4th grade student that will I tutor again after work starting Tuesday next week.

Happenstance, too. A mobile phone was left by our legal adviser, near my work station. It was ringing off the hook, so loud! I just had to take the call. When I flipped it open, I saw a very familiar name on the screen. Hey, I know this guy! My high school batchmate who's now an ENT. He was so surprised because I was at the other end. As if we do not bump into each other often - at the doctors' clinics, at the grocery, at some hangout place, wherever. Naga is such a compact city afterall that's why I see him almost all the time. He's either alone or with his girlfriend. After a few minutes, our legal adviser was back at the office. I told her that Dr. McDreamy of Naga called. Let's just leave it at that. I'm not privy to any other info on the matter. While I was trying to send him a text message, he was also trying to call me. Just had to take his call again for the 2nd time today. Funny thing - his call and my text had exactly the same intent: to let him know if and when our legal adviser is available for him to call. See? That's how high school batchmates should be, even finishing each other's sentences via hitech. Cool.

(Aside: With apologies to Dr. McDreamy of Naga - for any hassle or inconvenience this post may have caused.)

A bit before 5pm, my fave YM guy sent me his greeting with a smiley. Altho we just had a very brief online conversation, I just had to grin to myself again. Even after almost a week of not being able to chat with him, it's quite understandable. Our sked may never jive all the time because of work or other previous appointment. Just had to make the most out of any online chance I have with him. Which is good enough for me, at least for now.

After work, I went on a desk hunt. A friend of mine whose daughter's now in kindergarten has asked me for a favor: to help him look for a pink or green-colored armchair for his kid. My search brought me to all the possible stores downtown, but no pink or green-colored armchair turned up! I didn't even see a packet of long jos or incense sticks either. Sad but still tolerable.

Now with approx 30 minutes to go before this Friday ends, I'm still in a good mood. Even when my fave YM guy hasn't logged on yet (well, he just said earlier: "ok, i'll try" when asked if we can meet online later tonight), it's not a reason to feel bad. There's still another day, another night or another weekend for everything.

I'm just being thankful for the moments.

Mid-2008

2008-06-03T09:29:00.000-07:00

It's the first week of June already. So many things to do, so little time. But, a little perspective on what's really important, may strike a balance in one's daily duels. So how can you do a juggling act between personal or interpersonal? Work or fun? Your self or your significant person? Family or career? Is it love or just hormones? Stay stupid or be in the know? Guess all those questions are self-explanatory.

Here goes my midyear take:
At work, I will always aim to do my best. I'll hold on to my motto "It's always 100% every first time, all the time". Nothing wrong with setting good work standards for yourself, right? Simply focus on what needs to be done and minding your own business (without messing up others') may also apply at the homefront.

Still got a long way to go before my first billion, hehe. But I'm taking baby steps towards achieving my financial freedom. Saving for my rainy days and Mondays. Paying myself first by maintaining a savings plan. Not being so fond of shopping has its perks too. No impractical buys, just bare necessities. I'll just take pleasure in buying groceries any given Thursday.

I'm not entirely closing my eyes on the possibility of ever being with my special guy. Still, the chance of meeting him or not still hangs. Is he even out there? Am I here for him? Will he see me in his eyes? Can I bring a smile on his face? Is it just wham-bam-sayonara? Or will fate bring us together? If nothing happens between us in real life, maybe somewhere along life's busy highway - we will zero in on each other and really say "Hi (insert name)" face-to-face. And seal that very first meeting with a hug and a kiss (not necessarily in that order).

Who can tell? I may be a June bride or be on a honeymoon in December with him (there's no name or year indicated here). Be married, have a good husband, have kids and a nice home. But staying single is another option that I'm preparing myself for. Not by chance but by choice. If my future life partner or husband bails out on me by not showing up, ditching me or whatever, that will be his decision and his alone. If being without me is his happiness, I will never stand in his way. I am also open to adoption. That way, I may be able to care for someone else's bundle of joy.

I hope to broaden my horizons in the coming days/months/years by: being a good writer (for BicolHomepage and my blogs), volunteering again (keeping my fingers crossed!), travel to Cambodia (keeping my fingers crossed some more!), finish my Masters, learn a new language, have my own coffee shop and make use of my professional teacher's license (I'm still practicing by being a tutor after office hours).

Six months to go and counting!

Smorgasboard

2008-06-03T07:08:00.000-07:00

Some pictures to show the foodie in me! (Stay tuned for more of these!)

Angel hair pasta with garlic bread (Burgoo)

Raspberry shake (Starbucks)

Strawberry Milkshake

Daquiri (Steak Avenue)

Angus Beef Steak (Burgoo)

Cheeseburger & Fries

Fries Platter (Bob Marlin)

Ice Tea (Alessandra's)

Cheese Pizza (Sbarro)

Fresh Ceasar Salad (Sbarro)

Spinach & Mushroom Pizza (Sbarro)

Brocolli & Black Olives Pizza (Sbarro)

Sizzling Potatoes (Steak Avenue)

Homemade Pancakes (made by my little nieces!)

Pandesal (Atlantic Bakery)

Caramel Popcorn (Chef Tony's)

More Pizza Slices (Sbarro)

Blueberry Cheesecake (Sbarro)

Mixed Veggies with Cashew (Kowloon)

French Fries (Napoli Pizzeria)

New England Pizza

Wham Cheeseburger (Whamburgers)

Buchi (Kowloon)

Clubhouse Sandwich (The Coffee Beanery)

Ham with Glaze (Cooked by me)

Chocolate Birthday Cake...or what's left of it

Coffee O and Iced Tea (Kopiroti)

Chocolate Cupcakes with Sprinkles (I baked these)

Mt. Isarog Park: Another Roadtrip

2008-05-26T08:07:00.000-07:00

Taken last Sunday at Mt. Isarog Park's deer breeding farm.
Went there with my 2 good friends, Dhian & Andrei.
Met Bad Boy (the friendly buck).
(I was taking these pictures, so you won't find me here.)

Downpour

2008-05-14T06:34:00.000-07:00

Five dreadful days and counting...

My mind has gone on auto pilot mode. Always backtracking to the issues and events that have opened my eyes to the sad truth that "Life is never predictable. It's up to you to shake off the dust, rot in self-despair or determine if some battles are worth the effort."

Most of those who really know me can honestly tell to my face that I am kind-hearted, a career girl who strives to do what's best, funny, never violent, smart and pretty. The same people who will also say that I can do a 360-degree when wronged, but only when there is blatant disregard on the limits of tolerance.

Somehow, I will never be able to savor any feeling of vindication. Maybe, justice have been served in my favor. Could be that I've emerged the victor. But - my name, work ethics and everything I've tried so hard to hang on to - have become shreds of what I used to be. I will never fully understand why some people would even stoop to the level of being inhuman, just to make someone else look bad. I may not have any visible scars to show for it, yet the wounds caused by verbal vexation are still raw. I'd rather have one real friend than a host of so-called Great Pretenders. Moving on will really mean knowing who to trust, relying on myself, avoiding confrontation, and just letting people be themselves.

As if these are not yet enough, there's one more.

My father has been given six months to live. All the smoking, drinking, women, whatever, has finally taken toll on him. Smoking gave him bad lungs. Drinking led him to rehab for two years. His affairs gave him an extended family. Vices clouded his judgment. Not even the constant medication prevented the complications. Even the good memories that I have of him have been overshadowed by his indifference, violent tendencies and unfair treatment of mom. He was never a good provider because mom shouldered the responsibility of taking care of us. Cruel as it may sound, I can't help but think that his main purpose in life was to procreate. Regardless, he will always be my father.

PS. Keeping the faith, when all have gone haywire, is the only way to deal.
The Universe can help ease the pain.
There is a Higher Force Up There.

INJUSTICE

2008-05-11T21:57:00.000-07:00

I went on a 12-hour trip to and fro Catanduanes. Instead of spending Mother's Day with my mom, I had to endure another work-related weekend. Had to wake up at 2:00 am - not even last Saturday night's glass of daquiri pounding on my head can stop me. My youngest sis took me to the central terminal. The bus to Tabaco port left at 2:55 am. Upon arrival at 5:30 am, I paid the ferry boat ticket and terminal fee.

The 4-hour ocean ride was very uneventful - with clear blue skies, gentle breeze and calm waves. Aside from the influx of summer travelers with the same destination as mine, the lull was only broken by cries of children, passengers walking aboard and subdued conversation flowing across the deck. Instant seafood noodles from the boat's store, a cinnamon donut and mineral water was my breakfast. Later, I had a short pleasant talk with an older woman. She was on vacation too, all the way from Cavite. Then, I just dozed off with the sun beating at my feet.

I disembarked at Virac port, past 11:00 am. (The aftershock of Saturday's mean mobile call from Y was still reeling in my head. A verbal beating. He just went on his merry way talking loud, saying all that's unpleasant. He was not even allowing me to speak, always cutting me in mid-sentence. Dang! I did my best working on the bank documents he needed, at such a very short notice. Then I get crapped on by a hairline-challenged bossy person. That happened last Saturday morning even before I started my daily office grind.)

Stranger than fiction, Y was not even around when I went to Sea Breeze to meet A in Catanduanes. Good for him, I was just about ready to give him a piece of my mind. Hehe, the old man did not even show his face. The meeting with A started off with slightly-heated argument.

He just said "Y's just getting old, that's why!".

"Yeah, right. But that doesn't give him the right to talk to me that way. Look, the bank documents you needed wasn't part of the work I do at the office. You know who's supposed to do them for you? The liaison officers who, even when they were instructed by our boss, simply refused to obey her. My efforts were all for what? Unfair old man."

"You know, I can't even understand why our boss employs ZERO people. But, zero people are always safe. They just say they don't know anything and it always work out in their favor", A replied.

"Well, I'm not a ZERO person. And I will only do this extra work with specific instructions from you."

"I know you're not a zero person...and, since the liaison officers won't do their job, here are some things I want you to do..." Nice segue. He then proceeded to list down all the sets of bank documents and papers I had to work on, ASAP. "If I can't go to Naga this week, just bring all these documents by yourself," he said.

Another 12-hour trip to Catanduanes within this week? As if I have a choice. Glad though that somehow, I was able to make A listen to what I had to say.

After a very short lunch of tanguigui soup, fried chicken, rice and mango juice, it was time to take the same route back to Naga from 1:00 to 8:00 pm.

Aboard the ferry boat for the 2nd time on Mother's Day, events from last Saturday afternoon circled in my head...

"Sam, what time are you going out?", asked our legal adviser.

"Around 5:00 pm, I'll attend anticipated mass", I answered. "Why? Am I in trouble?", I added in good humor.

"No, I just want to talk to you. How about now? That way, I won't have to go back here later."

"Ok, just let me arrange these papers I'm working on."

Later, she led me to the kitchen area where we sat down to talk about ISSUES. In ramdom order.

No. 1 - "Naghahamon ka daa nin suntukan." (In English: I initiated a boxing match).

My take: "Huh? Me? I was the one who was given a boxing match dare! If I initiated any boxing match, then we could have taken the matter outside."

No. 2 - "Nagpapabayad ka daa nin 200 pesos sa kada pinapagibo ninda saimo sa opisina" (In English: I asked for 200 pesos for every thing they've asked me to do at the office).

My take: "Huh? For all the things they've made me do at the office and every other paper work that I've been doing at 200 pesos each? Where is the money? If that was the case, I should have a lot to show for it and I wouldn't even need to earn extra after office hours. And why should I even ask them to pay me? It's office paper, ink, computer that I'm using."

No. 3 - "Pinagbawal mo daa sainda an pagamit kan computer" (In English: I disallowed them from using the office computer).

My take: "Huh? Why should I even do that? I don't own anything in this office. My only concern was the files and documents stored in the pc, like microsoft money. And if I disallowed them from using the pc, see for yourself. D, the boss' nephew is there now, clicking on the keyboard, on YM, on the internet".

No. 4 - "Niribawayan mo daw an password" (In English: I changed the password).

My take: "What password?" (Vague, even to me. Even if I change any password, it's known. Specifically the reason why they are able to use the computer.)

No. 5 - "Iniwal mo daw an bagong engineer" (In English: I started a fight with the new engineer).

My take: "The new engineer wanted to talk to me, I said 'just say when as long as it's on neutral ground' last May 1. The next day, M said, 'let's talk' and I asked, 'the office is a neutral ground for you?'. She said 'yes it is'. So I followed her outside. We haven't even started talking when she started to cry. I told her, 'don't cry because people inside the office might say that I'm trying to hurt you or something...".

Note: I never laid a finger on her. I'm not touchy-feely with anyone there.

No. 6 - "You said something like: Bako man baga yan sweldo, allowance lang, kan hinapot ka kun makua ka na nin sweldo" (In English: I said 'that's not even salary, that's just allowance', when asked if I would like to get my salary)

My take: "I was never asked if I would like to get my salary. I only said - 'allowance?' in a joking tone. I've been looking forward to the 20% automatic salary adjustment after working for more than a year at the office. I inquired nicely, asked politely every time I get my pay. When the adjustment never came, I simply stopped asking".

No. 7 - "Sinabi mo daa na an 15-days sweldo ni D saimo" (In English: I said that Dindin's 15-days salary is mine)

My take: "I took on D's work duties because she had a motorcycle accident. I used my initiative to do the job that's outside my share. Without even being told by the boss. I didn't ask for any extra pay. I joked with D (after work, inside her house) saying: 'you should give me 50% of your 2-weeks pay' and she laughed saying 'no problem. that is if I get paid at all'...I never said anything like her salary is mine. Truth is, I was never paid for the extra job. It was thankless. And I will never get anything that's not mine, or take money that I never worked hard for. That's not how my mom raised me."

No. 8 - "Tarakot na daa sinda saimo" (In English: They are scared/afraid of me)

My take: "Why? I never confronted any of them. I remained quiet. Now, they've singled me out as the 'bad person'. Tell me, what about the other 'bad persons in the office'? Will they also get the same treatment that I'm getting now? Can't they find anything else to hold against me? Being quiet and just working with blinders on led me to this. What if I confront them? But that could also backfire since you'll never know what version of the issue would come out. I'm old enough to even bother putting up a fight with these people."

ASIDE: Most of all, I NEVER applied for this job. The boss asked me to work for her, a long time ago. I am very good at what I do. My work defines who I am. I give it my 100% all the time, sometimes more than that. What she tells me to do, I say "Ok po." And do it the best way I know how. If she isn't happy with it, I redo it. I've focused myself on what the boss wanted. Even when I don't know how to go about things she wanted me to do, I learn it. Even when the load took on until the early hours of the morning, I did it. Even on weekends. Even the personal stuff, not work-related, I obeyed her. Just to keep her happy with the way I do things. She may ask me to resign, but how? I never applied for this. She can't impose any forced resignation on me because it's against the law, and on what grounds? Mindless and unfounded gossip?

But if she her mind's made up about me, and if she believes all these issues against me, it only goes to show what kind of person she really is.

It's been 3 days and I still can't shake off this big letdown.
Being quiet and just minding my own business at work.

I was only trying to make things easy for everyone and IT BLEW UP ON MY FACE. The realization came to me in full force as I stood on the ferry boat's upper deck. I will never be able to fully understand how any person could weave malicious issues about anyone. How can any person gossip about you and say those words which you haven't even said or hear yourself saying aloud. I'd rather not dwell on that.

There's something I'm sure about: I'm not claiming self-righteousness but my conscience is clear.

Hell HQ

2008-05-01T02:43:00.000-07:00

It's been another tough day. Even when I skipped worked today, things that were work-related still hounded my supposedly non-working 1st of May - Labor Day.

Gosh! How much crap can a girl take?

Earlier on, I've posted that I can deal with all shitty matters thrown at me. But even the limits I've set for myself have been breached. Gossip, unfounded or with a grain of truth, is still hurtful. More so because it's NEVER 100% accurate. Words taken out of context. Just saying things to start a big fight. Goes to show that no one can trust anyone, especially if it deals with work politics. The green horn of pathetic indifference shows its sharp edges over and over and over again. Watch your step all the time. It's good to have an extra pair of eyes at the back of your head. Develop an invincible shield of armor, or a thicker skin. Have your own set of balls if needed. Protect your turf with an eagle-eyed stare. Fight fair. Fight dirty. Do whatever it takes.

Picture this: HELL HQ - on earth, my earth - a daily dose of dang and damn. A seemingly endless disease that festers each time I get sucked in it. It's not like I don't have a choice on this. Somehow, my choice to just let all issues slide was a bad decision. I smiled even though the hurt has lingered. I tried to be diplomatic and understanding even when I'm always at a losing end. I never bothered to kiss anyone's ass just to get ahead. I do my best even when it's always a thankless deal. I wanted to be fair to all but how can I keep up with pretenses when everyone else don't even bother to say "hi back". Still, I let things slide and do what I do best. Even if it meant being invisible, talking only when talked to and just focusing on work until the each day ends.

It's just a job, never anything personal.

BUT, I take it too personal when my work ethics is questioned. Heck! I even took on another person's work load for 2 weeks without asking for any extra pay. Sometimes, my initiative can backfire at me. I am ALWAYS good at what I do. And being a hard worker (taking on more duties someone else's should be doing but can't, because of an accident) doesn't mean that I will take anyone else's salary without prior approval from the boss - that's like stealing! I've been through hard times all my life and I've learned to make the most out of what I have. But I will never take money that I never worked hard for. That's not me at all. However, all my good intentions to help and make things easy for those involved just blew up on my face.

Things are about to change. Maybe nothing major at once, rather a gradual change. Time to show some cold-hearted side to my very capable demeanor. I can never be as bitchy as they are but I've got a few tricks up my sleeve. I call it "bitchin' glam". No one will be allowed to put me down again. Enough is enough.

Welcome to Hell HQ.

Gimme Some Lovin'

2008-04-27T17:56:00.000-07:00

Last night in church:

“What does LOVE mean to you? Does it still mean the same way when you were younger? When you were in high school? Or has it changed?” asked the priest.

Then he proceeded to tell the story of how a man, after church, rushed home to his wife and carried her in his arms. The wife was taken aback by her husband’s sudden display of affection. So she asked him “Why are you lovey-dovey today, husbie?” The husband replied, “My wife, in church today, the priest said that love is sacrifice. It should be carried like a cross”. (Priestly humor)

“You see, LOVE is sacrifice. Sacrificial love - it may entail giving up your life for others. Taking the fall so that others may live. Love may take many forms, rational or not. Among new lovers, the guy usually asks a girl if she loves him. When she says yes, he wants her to prove it…”

Spending time in church is always one of my favorite moments. Just an hour or so works wonders for my tired heart and soul. I am lifted up by the truth that there’s much more to this life. Not all good things all the time, yes. But learning experiences, nonetheless.

There’s more to LOVE in my life now.

Last night, I was introduced to “The Zany Escapades of Nate the Great: Gator Bait!” by a talented and sweet short story writer. It was a fun read. A seven-page toss-up between reality and fiction. Each page literally came alive with the author’s play of words. A good start. With potential. I love it!

Last night, I watched The Shawshank Redemption on video. My short story writer told me that it’s one of his favorite movies. I was able to see why. When he went online later, I was supposed to chat him up with the movie’s winning points. But I got sidetracked by his short story and more. He asked me to go on a snake hunt – since his next short story will be about pythons.

What’s not to LOVE about all these?

What Weekend Plans?

2008-04-21T23:10:00.000-07:00

During Tita Malou's Saturday pizza treat, she invited us to spend the next day out of town.
Plan 1: To see Tita Malou's farm in Calabanga.
Plan 2: To observe animal life there - chicken, cows, fishes.
Plan 3: To enjoy half-a-day with Mother Nature - water, air, plants, trees, rocks, soil.
Plan 4: To unwind - for a few hours only.
Plan 5: To eat - Siram hayy!!!
(Thanks to Tita Malou & everyone at her farm)

Getting ready for lunch!!!
(Moi - in red, Daisy - in black, Necy - in yellow, Dindin - in white, & me)

I'm holding a native broom "walis"...
(After attempting to clean up dried mud tracks from the farm - can you even tell that I'm still in pain due to laryngitis?)

At the fishpond
(That's Tita Malou in grey & black; mom in pink & me)

That's Andrei - ready to chow down!!!
(On the table - LUNCH!!! chicken, buttered shrimp, fish soup, grilled fish, seafood, pineapple slices)

At Kate's with work mates and a kid named Moi
(Daisy, Dindin, Moi, Andrei, me, Mak)

Aerial view of chicken coop (with a/c - best of German technology)

Inside the chicken coop - see us with those 1 week old cluckers!!!
(My bag's made of canvass - saying NO to plastic!!!)

Still inside the chicken coop
(FYI: Tita Malou said that during the 1st few weeks of chick-life, the a/c inside the building is turned off. Needless to say, it was warm in there - like an incubator)

Live chicken - ready for harvest this week
(One harvest of 35-day old chicken = 20,000 heads!!!)

Spindly brown legs - cows imported from New Zealand

Sometimes a fun weekend need not be planned that much - just go with the flow.
Enjoy!

Buzzin' and Brewin'

2008-04-10T19:52:00.000-07:00

“How can you move on when your past is present? Do we need distance to be close?”

That’s a line! Nah, that is a quote which my bestfriend and soul sis Zarah YM'ed me a long time ago. Words that could best describe my state of mind last night. Maybe the state of my heart too, if that would even count.

Science says that the heart has nothing to do with how we feel – whether it’s crazy love, uncontrolled lust or sensual/sexual thoughts, including all the other emotions that could send out some mixed signals. It’s our brain! That grey spongy matter inside our thick skull – the source, maybe the culprit. What stimulates the brain affects all the body parts and nerve endings. Needless to say, the brain causes the heart to react via the bloodstream. Pardon the thought – everything is just blood rushing from the brain to the vena cava and back again.

Try as I could, there’s this place in my heart that has remained unoccupied. For a long time…and counting. Altho my heart is in the right place, it seems that it could stay that way – unoccupied – for more days or months or years to come. Not that I’m complaining. I love my life and the joys of being single. There’s work even when it sucks sometimes. Meaningful friendship. My family. My faith. On weeknights and weekends, there’s the TV, books, computer, internet, VCDs, DVDs, baking, cooking, chores and coffee.

And speaking of coffee.

I don’t know if it was just a sign of desperation on my part. You see, I’ve been having really bad nights and days, cranky moods, tiredness, sleeplessness, back pains, headaches and flu-like symptoms. My youngest sister, she’s a nurse, told me that I have low BP (Oprah and Dr. Oz said that the BP is the most important number to watch out for) and that I should hydrate as often as I can (No worries there, I love drinking loads of cold water).

Like any other internet info junkie, I went online to see if there’s anything in the worldwide web that could explain what I’m experiencing. Haha, maybe not very sensible but I need instant gratification – FAST! There it was a minefield of information - www.webMD.com, yahoo health, and MSN, among others.

Then I searched on coffee. Chanced upon www.coffeeuniverse.com, www.coffeescience.org and www.hopkinsmedicine.org. After sorting all the facts about coffee, a research title caught my eye: CAFFEINE WITHDRAWAL RECOGNIZED AS A DISORDER (from the researchers of John Hopkins Medicine).

After reading, I realized that my usual coffee intake have been virtually limited. To make up for lost coffee buzz, my Thursday nightcap included a 250ml serving of hot coffee, spacing out in front of the TV with the guys of CSI Las Vegas and a feel-good vibe that all will be well in the morning.

Maybe I’m having caffeine withdrawal disorder (the symptoms are present).

Or maybe I’m just in denial again.

Golden Grains

2008-04-08T20:29:00.000-07:00

Last night, I was able to catch the second half of a TV docu “Butil ng Buhay” (in English: Grain of Life) on GMA 7’s Reporter’s Notebook. And just like any other documentaries, this one had me thinking about the irony of Filipino life.

The docu zeroed in on the causes of the seemingly unforeseen rice crisis in my country. According to the experts, the Philippines used to be the top rice exporter in Asia. Today, we rank 3^rd among the importers of rice worldwide. To think that the PI is primarily an agricultural country, what happened along the way?

Backtracking to the 70’s when we held the distinction of being a prime source of this life-giving grain, the rice (oryza sativa). It is our main staple, complementing every viand on the table – whether it’s sardines straight from the can or the most delicious ulam. Fast forward to the present, what will happen to the marginalized sector of our society – those who only have rice as their basic source of sustenance each day – if it will be taken away from them due to their inability to cough up the extra pesos needed to buy a kilo?

More expert opinion pointed out the fact that the PI government has forgotten about agriculture. Whatever plans or measures taken never really addressed the needs for better irrigation, sturdier seeds, farm-to-market roads, technology and training. Like everything has fallen off the carabao-driven sled. Those who should have been the focus of this countrywide planning such as farmers, owners and agriculturists were never given that much priority. It’s been said that the government would rather spend a big sum in rice importation than spend more on upgrading agriculture methods. PGMA is quick to claim that there is no rice crisis here. Take another shot at reality: A former farmer has given up on planting rice again. He’s still planting alright, but not rice. He’s planting carabao grass instead. Easier to sell, low maintenance at hindi masyadong lugi (better ROI). Noted too was the truth that the PI doesn’t have a clearly defined land conversion fallback. A lot of farmlands are now converted into subdivisions, golf courses or malls. As one land owner said, the costs override the return. So what’s even the point of trying to hang on to a piece of land when the easiest way out is to sell it to the highest bidder?

A government agency which oversees rice production in the PI is the National Food Authority (NFA). There’s this thing about NFA rice. I’m not saying this to offend anyone. NFA rice is ok when newly-cooked, but when it’s cooled down (or as we say here, bahaw na or kanin-lamig), it’s not too ok anymore. Cooked and cold NFA rice can be tough on the gums. NFA said that there is no rice shortage yet. But this early, they are re-packing rice in 1-kilo bags. To avoid hoarding, countermeasures like: asking for proof of identity (IDs, birth certificate or residence certificate) is required from those who buy NFA rice in bulk. NFA also goes all over the PI to sell rice at Php 18.50 a kilo. Get this: The deficit in rice importation is way over NFA’s budget. Imported rice is about Php 30.00 a kilo minus NFA rice earnings equals to the government paying for the balance. End result: NFA’s almost 48 billion pesos in unpaid dues. What a way to go, taxpayers’ money.

Rice may be common in the PI but a lot of human effort goes to ensure that it maintains its nutritional appeal. It’s an amazing process – from choosing the binhi (seedlings), to planting, harvest, threshing, sun-drying, pa-molino (separating the rice chaffes from the grains), winnowing, cooking and serving. There’s a lot to be grateful for every grain of rice we have. The aroma of kanin na bagong ani (newly-harvested rice) is a gift, whether it’s a cup or half-a-cup.

Or in an empty cup? Hopefully not.

My Babe-ness...Or Not

2008-04-08T07:32:00.001-07:00

This post is just another proof that I can NEVER be a summer babe.

What a meltdown!

Our city had another long blackout today, more or less 8 hours. One of our civil engineers said that it's due to TransCo's technical adjustment. Good thing that our office has its own genset. Otherwise, I would have dozed off until the power's back again. For sure, I'll be issued a memo for "sleeping on the job". (Note: I've been working since my last term in college and I haven't been issued any kind of office-related memo. Hey, I'm good at what I do, hehehe).

It's must be the weather!

A lot of people look forward to long, glorious days filled with sunshine. Not me. But, I also like sunny days. As long as I stay indoors with the fan on full swing, that is. Safe from the heat and sunburn. Too much sun gets me down. It starts off with my feet getting cold, followed by headache and other body pains. Then I begin to get dizzy spells and feel really sleepy. Sun-drunk, if there's such a word. The sun and sweat make my nose and face itch. On regular days, I drink a lot of water to stay hydrated. Nowadays, my water intake goal is - drink a glass of water every 30 minutes! You get the picture, hehehe.

If there's any way to avoid the summer heat - please, I'm open to all possibilities!

There's something special about summer though.

It's that time when the day ends and the night begins. That exact moment when you seem to hear the sun touch the mountains. When the clouds get that warm orange color. That brief and unnoticeable moment when the noise stops for a micro-second. When the day's warm air slowly merges into the cool breeze of the evening...leaving a soft trail of comfort against my skin. That's when I begin to feel better.

Alone Time

2008-04-06T05:57:00.000-07:00

I often have mixed emotions about weekends.

As much as I look forward to taking a break from everything, there are times when I wish that work days could extend all through the weekends. Simply because, most of my weekends are either spent inside the house, doing chores, some baking, being lazy and a lot of sleeping. Sounds like fun huh? But when I wake up from a lot of sleeping, I get woozy with a heavy dose of weekend headache. Not. fun. at. all.

Later this evening, after the pain was tolerable enough, I went downtown to return some overdue movie rentals. When I turned around the corner of my friend's video shop, I saw my best high school bud with a girl. He was holding her right hand - wow!

I went past him and he was unmindful, but not the girl.

She said, "Hey, your bestfriend just went inside the store."

He turned around and went in as well. (I was busy returning my rentals to notice that the girl was sitting on a stool behind me).

"Hey," I said. "I saw you holding hands with a girl. You thought I didn't see you, but I did." (It's always a blast to kid around with him because he is such a spoilsport).

Soon, most of our friends inside the video shop were teasing him. We can be mean sometimes, no pun intended. The girl called him a "heartthrob". I tried not to roll my eyes when she said that! (I can't believe she just said that. Haha.)

After my business at the video shop, I waved goodbye to everyone. I tapped on the counter and said, "Gotta go, guys."

My best high school bud asked, "Where are you going? You have a date?"

I shrugged, "I don't have a date. I'm going to take a walk."

Later, after church. I walked to the grocery store to buy some junk food. I just love walking. A simple pleasure that keeps me on my feet (literally!), a good exercise and a covert way to observe people. There are couples holding hands, kids walking with either mom or dad, friends laughing, others are walking fast or slow, while there are those who choose to walk alone. A certain sense of calm comes over me. Somehow my head clears up eventhough the pain lingers. I feel the tension leaving my tired body. The bounce in my steps translates into a definite sense of purpose.

At least, I try not to drift too far...I'm not being aimless anymore.

Torn. Burn. Alive.

2008-04-04T19:04:00.000-07:00

waiting...and still facing a blank wall.

it was such a bad untimely move from me...but then, if this is how it should be.

maybe you're just taking your time or something...or maybe you're just not that into me at all.

in a weird way, i'm trying to be happy...altho it turned into a triple whammy - a letdown, a rejection and a brushoff.

sometimes, telling things as they are could backfire...it hurts, and the silence makes me sad.

somehow, it's better this way...no expectations, fewer disappointment.

owning up to what's been said or what's left unspoken...but how do i deal?

if moving on means leaving a special part of me behind...so be it.

Caramoan!!!

2008-04-01T19:38:00.000-07:00

long coastline

horizon

limestone on the beach

us girls

rocks on the water

gota beach

bichara island

blue starfish

rock face

The 'Do

2008-04-01T07:01:00.000-07:00

I've got a new hairstyle and I just love it!

Even if it took about two sessions (after work) with the hairstylist, I'm quiet happy how it turned out. I've read in one of the online beauty magazines that a girl should at least change her hairstyle every two years. A new hair color, a new style, a new cut, highlights - anything to liven up her looks. It's been said that "looking good means feeling good". Sure, inner beauty counts a lot but there's no harm with a little makeover. Nothing too drastic to start with, just a few tweaks - after hairstyles, next on the list could be touches of new blush, bronzer, lipstick, you know...girlie stuff. Haha, it's fun being a girl!

After having my long hair tied up all the time, its now only shoulder length. I look like a high school girl with better looking bangs. Definitely an improvement. It's still wash and wear. Shampoo, conditioner, towel dry, a bit of hair poduct to tame any frizz, comb, air dry - really low maintenance.

Nice. Maybe I'll have less bad hair days from now on.

Got The Sun In My Eye

2008-03-31T06:55:00.000-07:00

The heat is on (again)!

It's summer in the PI! Rising temperature. Longer days. Shorter nights. Sea. Sand. Sun. Surf. Bikini and tan lines. Buffed bodies and cold drinks. Vacations. Fiestas. Beaches. Sunburn. Moods - good or bad.

I am not a big fan of summer. BUT that is only because of my limited tolerance to heat or sunlight. Years back, I've been diagnosed with intense allergic reaction to sun exposure which lead me to stay indoors until 3pm, pain relievers, derma appointments and upping my usual sunblock's SPF number. Too much heat for me means migraine and really being lazy. Not a very ideal summer-y combination.

BUT, there are also some things I enjoy about summer - fruits in abundance, fresh seafood, swirls of fab colors, dressing down, travel, cool nights, the possibility of a summer romance, and going to the beach. Maybe not to swim since I can't swim.

For now, all I have is a drawing board of my summer plans. Haven't been to the beach yet. Haven't eaten enough fruits or seafood yet. Don't have a tan yet. Haven't bought swimwear yet. Still to meet in person the "spicy" side of my being "crazy".

Have I mentioned that there is a magical side to summer?

Anything - fun, scorching, sweaty, or sweet - can happen!

Girl Talk

2008-03-28T21:47:00.000-07:00

"24/7..."
"If you are, would you?..."
"Given the chance..."

Some phrases that caught my attention while I was psyching myself for another workday weekend at the office. When I was able to start my office pc, I shifted my attention to the girls.

I bluntly asked, "Are you guys talking about sex in particular? I heard 24/7 earlier."

Tess, one of our civil engineers replied, "No Sam, we're not in that part yet. This is still about the getting-to-know-you-stage."

"Hmmm, I think the best question to follow would be: Your place or mine?".

Tess started to laugh. "Yes, that's a good one."

(After that, I re-focused myself with unfinished paperwork. The girls were still talking. When all of a sudden...)

"Hey Sam...", it was Tess.

"What?", I asked her.

"Would you even consider having an affair with a married guy? Whose got kids?".

"No, I won't".

"Even if he tells you that he'll give you anything you'll ever need?"

"My answer's still NO."

"What if you're the one who's married, would you ever have a relationship with a single/married person?"

"No."

"Why not?"

I tried to put some humor in my reply. "You see, Tess. I have an aunt who's in the religious order. She is a nun. And my family might disown me if I get into a mess like that! Seriously, I'd rather be with a guy who's available and that means he is 100% single. You owe that to yourself, you know. What's the point of being in a relationship if you have to share the guy with every other girl?".

"Ah ok", Tess finally smiled. "But...(Oh dear, it was serious talk really). Have you thought of being a single unwed mother? Like, just get pregnant and not ever marry the guy?"

"Nope. I'd rather adopt a kid".

"Ok, you've made up your mind on those issues, huh?". With that, Tess went off to talk about something else, work-related.

I have nothing against those who are having affairs, premarital or extra-marital. I can't blame girls who've gotten pregnant out of wedlock and are now good single moms. I can't say much about guys (single, married or on-the-rebound) who won't own up to their responsibilities of Daddyhood. Or to those who choose to adopt.

People will always be people - wired to make mistakes, have bad choices or stand up for themselves. We are all created differently. We will never always think alike. But we are all given the free will. It's up to us to make the most out of that gift and deal with the outcome of the decisions we make.

Thursday Thoughts

2008-03-27T06:15:00.000-07:00

Thursday is almost over. Time flies fast and it's gone in a blink. Life at the office is still hectic - always walking on eggshells and always (ALWAYS!) being careful not to ruffle the feathers of very unpredictable colleagues. Or else, I will get a lashing of mean words even when it's not my fault. I've been advised to show my innards outward and not be afraid to charge with my Ox' horns upturned. Or bulldoze my way to anyone who is being so unreasonably hurtful.

I've done a bit of hoof-thumping lately. Simply because I'm not stupid. Not stupid enough to just accept the bad words or being blamed for others' misdeeds. Not stupid enough to stay silent when I've done my best, but that is never enough. Someone will always find a way to bring me down and to find something wrong with the work I do. I'm not stupid enough to never take a stand in things I believe in. I have to show spunk without losing my wits. Smart bitchin' can be an art too.

Ah, my life. It's complex - sweet, unpredictable, fun, no high monetary value, always a work in progress. I still try to look for the positive side of what's here. Like not having a guy partner - which could be tough during days or nights when all I need is to snuggle. Like not having more than enough spending money - a working girl like me should know how to budget a mid-class paycheck. Like not being able to sleep at once. Like being taken for granted sometimes. But I have to learn how to like these not too pleasant yet doable realities.

Soon, it's weekend. In about two hours, my bedroom lights will be dimmed.

Enjoy the rest of this day, bloggers! Have fun too!

Rush Detour

2008-03-25T05:23:00.000-07:00

Crazy and hectic days are here again. Pouncing on me every time. Much as I really hate doing anything on-the-rush, sometimes it cannot be avoided. When this happens, I try my best to calm down, take everything in stride and just do my best. But I'd rather not rush for the simple reason: haste makes waste.

If it's your first time to do something new, loopholes may not be avoided entirely. Some important details may also be overlooked. Time is never a trusted friend when you're trying to beat it. Physically, rushing tends to accelerate one's heart rate, cause uneven breathing, back-head-shoulder aches, and by my standards - rushing is a major pain in the butt!

There is nothing wrong with a bit of frenzy in our daily life. But wouldn't it be heaven if each of us can have a bit more of downtime? There's always a moment for anything, I suppose. Life can be better appreciated if each nuance is savored and every grit or grime is enjoyed.

See? No rush!

Half A Dozen Kids

2008-03-20T23:11:00.000-07:00

When the adults trooped off to Tarlac this morning for a roadtrip, we chose to stay at home in Bulacan. Spending this Good Friday with me & my sis, are Joy, Ale, Leslie, Aira, Kurt & Betong. A happy bunch of youngsters with age ranging from 8 to 14. They're such good kids, maybe a bit noisy but then, that's how kids are. Most of their Easter break have been spent being together and edging each other out on playstation. Before my brother left, he specifically gave instructions to the kids regarding their playtime schedule. With 5 hours each (from 8am) the girls get to play until 1pm. The boys after. Then, it's cable for the rest of the day. No kids are allowed to go outside. Strict ang brother ko eh, hahaha.

For lunch we had seafood mac and cheese. Drinks: iced tea. And bread toast. Leslie & Joy helped me with the preparation of the ingredients. Leslie cried when she was slicing the onions. Joy almost hurt herself with the cheese grater. While Ale, Aira, Kurt & Betong watched the proceedings. The cooked mac noodles almost disappeared even before it was baked properly. It was a good lunch and I'm so relieved that the kids enjoyed eating too.

Now, it's almost snack time and we're going to make some pancakes! Wish me luck!

Family Matters 2

2008-03-20T04:19:00.000-07:00

There's always a lot to tell about family vacations, reunions, get-aways or whatever you call these events. Truth be told? Fun+food+faces = family reunion. Let me tell you how it goes in my extended family...

FUN, is always spelled in BIG letters. Whether it's from my mom's side of the family or my sibling's married side of the family. An occasion is always a reason to be with each other - Christmas, New Year, birthdays, death anniversaries, weddings, homecoming, going abroad to work, everything! I'm quite new at this extended family thing, especially concerning my sis-in-laws, brothers-in-law, their kids, cousins-in-law, my nephews and nieces. As a single woman, I find it such a delight to see and meet new family members. The young once are supportive. The young ones are lovable. Some of the kids would just look at me, some would call me "Tita Sam", some would rather sleep while others just love to play endless online games. I got creamed playing against my 8-year old nephew, Kurt, in 2 rounds of Gran Turismo 3 Playstation 2. Hehe, I redeemed myself by winning in the Tekken Tag Tournament. That was my first time to play and it was such a laugh.

FOOD, lots! Chinese, Thai, home cooking, fast food, ice cream, sweets, candies, chocolate, a lot! I enjoy eating as much as the next girl. It's also a good thing that the weight easily stays off with walking. Now, my throat hurts because of too much candies and chocolate. I haven't had the promised "drinking session" with my brother yet. I'm not so sure if we'll ever have one though, he just went out with his wife - to spend quality time together. I don't drink much, I'd rather mix drinks and watch unknowing people get drunk. Is that mean? Wait until you get a load of my vodka mixes.

FACES, all shapes, sizes, color, features, ages and dialect. Im still trying to put every name in each face of my extended family. Ate Eda from Houston, Texas and Mama Coring arrived early this morning. Nephews and nieces came in numbers. Hmmm, I can't help but notice that the stork have been busy visiting my sis-in-law's side of the family. Just recently Maxxis was born and by June, Bem will give birth to her first child. Isn't that exciting?

I can never tell when it's ging to be my turn to have my own family. Or if ever I'll have my own family someday. Yes, it would be wonderful to have my own partner in life, have a kid or two and be able to start my own family tradition. But for now, I'm ok to be with people I care about.

It's like owning a small piece of heaven on earth.

Family Matters

2008-03-18T03:34:00.000-07:00

Maxxis is the new angel in our life today. I call him the family's "wonder gift." He is my 2nd nephew. The 2nd son of my younger brother, Pips. And I'm such a proud Tita and Ninang (Iam both Maxxis' Aunt & Godmother). This little boy was born a month before he was due. At 8 months to be exact, a preemie. The most common neonatal births happen when the babies are 7 months on the way or full-term at 9 months. Maybe Maxxis was just too hyper. He was born via Ceasarean Section, never needed an incubator and is quite healthy. He is often asleep these days and he drinks a lot of milk. He's not a crybaby too. His mama, Puds (my wonderful sis-in-law) was unaware that she's on labor. By golly! She even went to work that day! She is one tough mama! Puds takes care of their kids whenever my brother is on his regular ship duties as a Marine Engineer. Puds and Pips looks so good together. It's just great to see two people so different yet so hapy with each other. This happiness can also be seen on the faces of their 3 loving kids, Florence Joy (Kinkann), Kurt William (Brad) & Hector Philipp (Maxxis).

PS. I'll be posting pics of Maxxis' christening soon.

when quiet meets quiet

2008-03-16T05:17:00.000-07:00

...it means "spicy" (his take) ...it means "crazy" (my take).

Nonetheless, there's always something "unexpected, funny, sweet, and vivid" in the mix. There's "humor, thoughtfulness, wit, gentleness, and fair warning". Could be "GP or with sexy undertones". Shared or common interests. Maybe a certain vibe. Obvious individual differences. Or in basketball: either a free throw, a 3-point shot or a slamdunk.

Let me just say that I am a lucky girl.

Having turned a year older last Friday, changes have been taking place in my life. Change is always good. It can jumpstart an otherwise predictable existence. It is a reason to smile. A happiness factor. It's always a welcome treat. And a blessing.

Thank you to the "spicy" side of quiet. For your thoughts, time, patience, stories, laughter and surprises. Salamat!

BicolHOMEPAGE: Your Guide To The Best of Bicol Region

2008-03-04T06:23:00.000-08:00

Here are the articles I've written for BicolHOMEPAGE. For more articles, photos and other features, feel free to visit: bicolhomepage.com

*****
STREET FOOD, ANYONE?
BicolHOMEPAGE (Oct-Nov 2007 Volume 1 No. 4)

LOOKING FOR A MOUTHFUL ESCAPADE?
Want to indulge in something exotic? Ready to say: “Let’s make tusok-tusok the fishballs?” or “Hopia, mani, popcorn?” Forget hepatitis! Here’s cheap, tasty food with gritty ambience. This is adventure and cheap food thrills combined.

Street food is basically a quick eat from a street corner vendor, of often from a makeshift or portable stall. While some street foods are regional, many are not, having spread beyond their region of origin.

The Ateneo de Naga University is one haven for affordable and tasty food. Take your pick from a variety of classics like: fishballs, kikiam, ulam, drinks, sandwiches, palamig, among others. Business starts even before the clock strikes at 8a.m. and doesn’t end while foodies are still around.

Another location for street foods is at Centro or downtown Naga. Follow the crowd or let your nose direct you. It may be a health scare alright, but then, who can resist these masiram asin baratong kakanon? From sweet, spicy, salty, to hot or cold, name it and you can find it.

YOUR NEXT FOOD DESTINATION
Kinalas and loglog both have a broth base, noodles, meat slices and a special kind of sauce. Best served pping hot, with egg; sprinkled with spring onions and roasted garlic. Season according to taste. Team these up with baduya, banana cue or camote cue for a very hearty meal or snack.

Bulastog is boiled chicken eggs dipped in batter usually with orange food coloring and served with vinegar and white onions. It is a bigger version of the kwek-kwek which uses quail eggs instead.

Chicken nuggets are intestines or “bituka” fried to a crisp. Barbeque chicken gizzard, intestines, heads, etc. You can find lots of these in any roadside stall, along with finger foods like chicken skin, barbeque chicken, pork barbeque, etc. Best for pulutan or served with steaming rice.

Aside from having the usual startup capital, the necessary health, sanitation and Mayor’s permits to operate are vital to keep the wheels of this endeavor constantly turning. The return of investment (ROI) may be limited but the satisfied faces, full stomachs and happy diners are proof that thisis one business that is worth keeping on the streets.

STREET FOOD SUCCESS STORY
Street food entrepreneur Jesusa Niña Parpan Gunio gladly shares her story: She wasn’t a street food stall owner to begin with, but an RTW retailer, hawking clothes from Bicol to Legazpi City. After three typhoons and a car accident, Niña decided to focus on selling street food along the ADNUni belt. Her decision to do so was clinched when a former student approached her for a favor: their organization would like to avail of her food and services during a 3-day university activity on the condition that Niña will not inform anyone that she cooked the food. Her viands became big hits. Niña has since been invited to join the first six carts occupying the street outside the school. From a simple aluminum push cart, she now owns “S.O.S.-C” (could it mean “sosy”?) and two ambulant food carts as well.

*****
PASTORES: A uniquely Bicolano Christmas Tradition
BicolHOMEPAGE (Dec 2007-Jan 2008 volume 1 no. 5)

Long before Christmas trees and Santa Claus became a part of our holiday celebrations, the Pastores was the Bicolano’s beautiful commemoration of Christmas. The Pastores is a musical re-enactment of the age-old nativity story. Colorful costumes are worn by singers, in honor of the biblical shepherds who sang the first Christmas carols. The performance is done with an entourage of traditional musikeros, lots of dancing to the tunes of Pastores A Belen, and a generous dose of Christmas cheer. It is caroling, Bicol style.

Taken from the Spanish word, Pastoras which means shepherdess, it applies to both male and female. These are small groups from four to twelve girls with an occasional male or two. All-male groups can be found in Tabaco Albay. In Camarines Sur, these “dancing girls of Christmas” dressed in colorful festive costumes appear on Christmas Day up to the Epiphany – 13 days of house to house singing and dancing – commemorative of shepherds proclaiming glad tidings. It is the followup to Kagharong, the reenactment of Saint Joseph and the Virgin Mary’s plight as they looked for a place to stay in Bethlehem on Christmas Eve.

Pastores was once part of Pasko. The songs and dances are preserved and inherited by the family and relatives of the parabalo or trainer. Girls were usually selected for their good looks, voice and talents or being marhay magcompas. In those days, it was an honor to be visited by the Pastoras because they usually go to the prominent members of the community.

It’s been two years since the last Pastores in Calabanga Camarines Sur took place. This may be due to the expenses’ inability to catch with the returns. In Legazpi City, however, the Pastores Festival is held on December 18.

*****
TANOG BIKOL
BicolHOMEPAGE (Feb-March 2008 Volume 1 No. 6)

The local music scene, aside from being a source of entertainment, is also a way of living. It may even serve as a stepping-stone for new or emerging talents who’d either make it here and abroad. While most would have the best recording deals, some artists may also be one-hit wonders. While some struggle for art’s sake, others chose to forget the people who brought them to where they are now. While some may be catapulted into instant stardom and disappear just as fast, others remain solid and steady. These are the artists who will continuously provide food for the soul with their kind of music.

In the summer of 1978, “Lolo” Andy Belmonte’s musical career as soloist and folk singer took off with nightly gigs at the GIP (Grand Imperial Plaza). His hobby and passion for music led him to other people who share the same interest. “Lolo” Andy’s one-man front act soon became a group effort. Batch by batch, show after show, changing members, through songs and laughter, gaining support among fans and patrons as well.

Fast forward to 2002, “Lolo’s Bar” was conceptualized to become “the home of local performers”, serve as the prime venue for the finest Bicolano performing artists, and offer the best in food, music, laughter and ambience. One of the mainstays at Lolo’s Bar, Mixed Nutz (Feb 14, 1993 to 2001), held the distinction of being the only local band to play in 5-star hotels. In Nov 19, 2002, Mixed Nutz had a new name: Sound Waves Band with a varied repertoire, comic relief and punchlines. Other colorful names for the band came forth. One name was Q Tone (pronounced as “cute-ton”, or really cute in English). To avoid confusion on the local connotation of Q Tone, the name was changed to 4K Barrel (read: Pork Barrel). As 4K barrel, they’ve released a local album. During the last two weeks of 2007, the band’s name was changed to The Midnight Cabinet with its political undertones and satirical perfomances. Soon, they will produce their repackaged local album with 8 songs, all-Bicol originals.

Aside from the habitual changing of names, their distinctiveness also lies in these principles: Making mistakes is an enjoyment. Just be happy as the highest paid local act. Singing is not a profession but a hobby. They’d rather be known as a vocal group, not a band. AND their Ultimate Dream is to be the flag carrier of Bicol.

But when asked if they went through a series of identity crisis, the answer, amidst laughter, was a resounding “Yes, even today!”

The Midnight Cabinet a.k.a. 4K Barrel, has “Lolo” Andy Belmonte (tenor/bass); Jun De Loyola (alto/tenor); Tonton Hernandez (arranger/tenor/bass) and Marlon Amador (tenor/bass). Manager Ning Belmonte. Catch them nightly at Lolo’s Bar, Avenue Square.

*****
KILIG TO THE BONES An encounter with the legendary "hilot" man
BicolHOMEPAGE (Feb-March 2008 Volume 1 No. 6)

Note: I am not insulting our friends in the medical profession. I am quite sure that they are doing their best to ease us from our daily aches and pains. Please don’t take this out of context.

Magarao, a small town on the outskirts of Naga City has always claimed to be the "Hilot capital of Camarines Sur”. Even the welcome arch leading towards the town proudly says so.

However, according to Felizardo Villamer a.k.a. Legid (An Pamosong Parahilot kan Magarao), that statement is a misconception. He proceeded to tell us the reasons why. First, “hilot” means midwife, “nagpapa-aki” or “kumadrona”. Second, Magarao is known for its “para-hilot” (those who deal with fractures) which is entirely different from “hilot”. What’s more complicated is that, third, these physical therapists (“piso-therapists”), reflexologists (“para-lapo”) and massage practitioners can never be in the same category as the legit “para-hilot”. Which brings us to the fourth reason: simply because the former, unlike the latter, don’t pay any tax to the community at all.

Those were very strong convictions from Legid himself.

So, who is this man known for his legendary booming voice, seemingly endless stories, various contraptions and gadgets? What is the best way to know him? Go directly to the source. That, I did together with some friends, on a rainy Sunday afternoon. Going incognito is always an alternative choice to get information. Not to catch the subject off-guard, but rather to make him/her share his/her story without qualms or sugarcoating.

It was not easy.

After two unsuccessful interview attempts along the way, I willed myself to try Legid’s expertise. He felt my pulse and asked if I’m already married. (Nice ice breaker there!) I told him that I’ve had years of right foot discomfort especially at night and how I’ve tried reflexology before. He then asked me to take off my flipflops, placed my left foot atop his papag and did circular strokes on my whole left foot. He called his male companion who used an electric device to do more round movements on the same foot. After that, he asked me to place my left foot on an empty bottle on the floor and just roll my foot along. It was scary and weird. Scary because of the combination of electricity, tingles and jolts. Weird because I told him that the discomfort I’ve felt was on my right foot, why was he focusing on my left food instead?

All this time, he was regaling us with stories and anecdotes animatedly. His father, the original Legid, was a policeman who would take off his duty clothes just to roll allover the floor (“nagpapara-legid ngaya sa salog”). Legid also told us about his appetite for ripe Davao mangoes (which almost caused him to have diabetes), his glory days of ballroom dancing, how proud he is of his craft and of his family, the mishaps done by doctors who ultimately ask him for help and he even told us that his gadgets are imported.

After 70 pesos and approximately 30 minutes later, I realized that meeting and listening to the legendary Legid was quite an adventure - even when it was my first time to see him and have him administer aid to my foot.

And my right foot discomfort? Believe me, it’s gone.

*****
WEEKEND IN CARAMOAN
BicolHOMEPAGE (Feb-March 2008 Volume 1 No. 6)

Take the white sand beaches of Boracay or the diverse ruggedness of Palawan - and you have the best of both worlds - an idyllic haven called Caramoan.

The name Caramoan has been officially used since 1619, the date when it was founded by Fray Francisco de la Cruz y Oropesa. The first name given to this place was Gota de Leche by the Dutch traders. It is a hilly peninsula with deep gorges and a rough, rocky terrain, caves, limestone formations, white sandy beaches, an islet lake, a subterranean river, clear blue waters, unending coastline, and abundant marine life.

Dagos po Kamo sa ...CARAMOAN! (Welcome to Caramoan!)
You don’t have to worry about finding a place to stay in Caramoan. Our group chose La Casa Roa Hostel with its reasonably priced menu and airconditioned bedrooms with bathrooms. You can ask for a spare bed for a minimal fee. Cable TV is also available.

Soak up the Saturday sun
After a short jeepney ride from La Casa Roa, we reached our first stop - Gota Beach. What a breathtaking way to start off a weekend adventure! Gota Beach, Bichara or Paradise Island and Pitogo are just three of the frequently visited beaches in Caramoan with its powdery sand, clear waters and imposing rock formations.

Sweet Sweaty Sunday
Day two of our Caramoan adventure took us to Sabitan Laya, Caglago, Tabgon and other islands which, unfortunately, will remain unexplored simply because the motorboat we were in got beached. The boatmen took extreme caution not to damage the newly-planted seaweeds. Then we took a detour from the islands and climbed Mt. Caglago. In the early years, pilgrims used to bring bags or baskets of sand from the bottom of the mountain. They would take 2000 steps up to pile these sandbags on the base of a big statue. How the statue got there was a unique and touching story of concerted efforts – piece by piece, block by block. Each frame, stone, cement and sand that held the image together came from different places in the region. These pieces eventually reached the top of Caglago, put together by hand, and became what is now known as the image of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary.

Caramoan is considered as one of Camarines Sur’s last frontier. Steady progress is slowly but surely making its presence felt in the peninsula, hopefully, not in exchange for its untamed beauty.

HOW TO GET TO CARAMOAN
There are many ways to get to Caramoan. From Manila, take a plane (55 minutes) or a bus (8 hours) going to Naga City. At the Central Bus Terminal, take a bus or a van (2 hours) going to Brgy. Sabang, San Jose. You should be there before 10AM. Catch the boat (2 hours ride) bound to Brgy. Guijalo, Caramoan. At the port of Guijalo, take a jeepney or tricycle going to the town proper of Caramoan.

To get to Caramoan from Manila, one may either take a 9-hour bus ride or a 1-hour plane ride to Naga City (377 km South of Manila). From Naga City Central Terminal, one may take a van to Sabang port. Travel usually lasts for 1 hour. From Sabang port, there are small commercial boats that ferry passengers to the Caramoan Port. Hourly boat departure schedule starts at 5 AM. Boat ride usually lasts for 2-hrs and cost Php120++. One may take a jeepney or a tricycle to go to the Centro or the Gota Beach.

WORD PLAY:
"caramo-an" - what beautiful things you're wearing
"carahan" - a sea turtle abundantly found along the peninsula's shores
"nagka-cararamoan" - breaking one's teeth
"namo" - a wild plant

an invite...

2008-02-29T06:37:00.000-08:00

Join me on Friendster!

Goin' Gray

2008-02-26T07:22:00.000-08:00

“Never ask a woman her age”, a cliché. It has undertones of humor, respect, privacy, secrecy and nonchalance. Same goes with that line in a shampoo TVC “…30-something na”, or the quote “Age is just a matter of mind; if you don’t mind it doesn’t matter”.

Growing “old”, may be an honor at this time of restlessness, instant-everything, and cutthroat life we have. Instead of aimlessly drifting away from one’s real purpose of being, this rite of passage could be a welcome treat. Of course, (without undergoing cosmetic “repair”) with age come the tiny wrinkles at the eyes’ corners, the eye bags, the permanent line between the brows, the laugh lines are turning into deep jowl lines, the sagging cheekbones, the double chin – all are proofs of having lived a life that’s full while continuing the process of learning regardless of pain or disappointment along the way.

Fears are now better handled. Pieces of the puzzle are fitting in together. Standing up for convictions is always a fun way of showing spunk. A lot of options are there for the taking. Real friendships and relationships are established. There is always a sense of discovery that anything is possible through hard work and daily affirmation. Life could be like sharing a cup of coffee with a special person, maybe even compared to taking a walk in the park on a rainy afternoon, or taking that last bite of chocolate chip cookie.

Love can be a welcome treat, or an absent ingredient. As one of the basic human emotions, love could be the be-all and end-all of existence, or not. Love will always be love – with its razor sharp cuts, bruises and beatings. Love, although it’s always meant to be shared, can also be selfish, egoistic, demeaning, insulting, stupid, cold, empty, or dead. But love, glorious love, can be perfect or almost perfect. Unless, something or someone better, comes along.

My take on this: Acceptance. Wisdom, they say is part of growing “old”. It builds character, strength, patience, and a certain aura of authority. It could even be fun and challenging. And it’s not really a bad thing.

Anlamig!!!

2008-02-18T23:18:00.001-08:00

February days and nights have been really cold now. Give me overcast skies, rain showers, no heat wave, seemingly absent sunshine, even gloomy days – I love it! Just perfect for reminiscing, psyching up one’s self, lazing around, being praning doing nothing, dreaming out loud every unspoken thought and one-sided feelings.

But then, I’m not sure if that’s always a good thing since the cold spell could also mean a very hot summer. Yeah, and that could be a drag for all those who can’t take too much summer heat – dehydration, fainting, headaches, dizziness, all the sweaty stuff. Sweat is the body’s way of releasing toxins, impurities and it gives a sense of comfort, relief even. But then, to minimize the risk of drying out, hehe, do take in lots of water (it’s cheap and readily available). Or if you want, guzzle up fruit-flavored drinks, smoothies, power juices, anything that’s cold and thirst-quenching. A bit of health benefits should always be taken in consideration.

I’m not really a fan of summertime and the heat it brings…but then, I’m now really getting affected by the cold spell. It’s just too much for a “gloomy day person” like me. I miss the sun as it slowly peeks above the horizon, the smell of sun-drenched air, the play of lighted shadows across my window and the general good effects of vitamin D.

Summer is still days away. The Day of Hearts is now a memory. Today is here…and it’s still freakin’ cold!

VERDICT!!!

2008-01-07T20:58:00.000-08:00

This morning's local headlines gave me something to be so glad about!

Four talents won their labor case filed against ABS-CBN Naga. This is actually the fourth win! According to Labor here, ABS-CBN Naga's (headed by Station Manager AGV) decision to terminate TV reporters Monina Avila and Tina Sumayao, cameraman Gener del Valle and driver/cameraman Nelson Begino was ILLEGAL. Labor has it that "being talents" is NOT a justifiable cause for termination.

Labor's verdict also indicated that ABS-CBN Naga has been ordered to give the aforementioned talents almost 2.5M pesos (inclusive of OT, holiday pay, attorney fees, etc) as damages. Also, Tina, Gener, Nelson and Monina must be reinstated to ABS-CBN Naga.

Now isn't that something to be happy about?

I've worked with Tina, Daddy Gen and Nelson years ago. I know that these guys are very hardworking and dedicated to their craft. I haven't met Monina yet but I know that she's also a toughie. Thank you for fighting this/our fight and for believing that no network TV giant will always be invincible "sa boses ng masa".

Kudos guys!

2007-12-29T06:13:00.000-08:00

This post could be my last entry for 2007.

I'd like to think that my buzzword for this year is/was: "change". No, make that "all-encompassing change". Always good. Even bad. Great expectations. Could be worse. Welcome disappointment. Crappy moments. Intimacy or lack thereof. 365 days of relentless learning. Fearless fun!

Work was a big stress factor for me. Yikes! I've probably heard all the swear words I can handle for a year! Meanies at the office! An unbelievable deadbeat Christmas bonus! The deadliest project deadlines beating at my door! The upside of work was being given the chance to pursue my other passion: writing for Bicolhomepage (thanks George!). I saw Minnie (our ed-in-chief) and Joseph (her husband and creator of bhp) again after 10 years. Bhp is a great glossy and a creative collaboration of the best Bicolano minds and hearts.

This year, I met some nice guys. They were quite interesting in all aspects. But only "he" really rocked my world! I still don't know if he likes me back or anything. (I hope he does, haha). Just thinking about him makes me smile. His mom likes me a lot though. Somewhere in the span of eight months since we've met, I've realized that liking someone can make a girl do things out of the ordinary. I did a lot of crazy, funny and weird KSP (kulang sa pansin) na pagpapa-cute. Topping that list was my recent 9-hour trip each (to and fro) just to be with him and his mom. All I got was 60 minutes of work-related chitchat (again!) and buko juice! The atm machines at the mall did not have enough cash for those lining up to withdraw so there wasn't really that much to spend. Sana ako na lang ang naglibre sa kanila. If only I wasn't too dyahe to his mom, I should have acted on my impulse to make beso-beso and hug him. They made an effort to meet me alright and I'm grateful for that. It was just like being on a high school date with his mom as our chaperon. How's that for a pre-Christmas treat? It wasn't such a happy vacation. Our schedules didn't jive. We never had the chance to really talk or spend more time together. Hopefully that will change because he told me during lunch today that his gift for me has been ready for some time and that he'll be coming for a visit soon. And when would that be? I dunno. But it's better than having nothing to look forward to.

Healthwise, I never suffered any major setbacks except for migraines and backaches.

My friends, limited for sure, but their presence and communication made up for the lack in numbers. To Ipoi, for being such my A-list wingman, never changing even after all these years, always ready with his advices (nothing can compare to hearing it from a male perspective), unlimited texts, forwarded messages and delightful presence. Thanks Big Angelo! To Faye, my pretty giggly kikay friend for the after-Saturday mass foodtrips and advices too. Thanks Your Honor! For George, a very dear high school amiga who led me to Bicolhomepage and rediscover Arce ice cream flavors. Thanks for the belly laughter and amazing stories we've shared! To ZJ, my all-around globetrotter YM soul sister, thanks for your friendship, advices and heartwarming chitchat from the other side of the planet.

To my family, for always putting up with my shortcomings and being proud of my small victories too. To whoever reads my blog. And to the Great Provider of All Things Wonderful, thank you po! (I'm beginning to look like a thank you speech, haha).

Until next year, peeps! Here's to a very challenging, love-filled, lucrative and happy 2008! Cheers to all of us!

Hammering Out A Wicked Comeback

2007-12-08T06:48:00.000-08:00

Call me a sucker for everything that's MEAN. Whether it's people, job, workplace, relationships, feelings, weather, attitude, even myself. What's "mean" for me may not be your level of "meanness". Regardless of how we gauge it, it's part of who we are. All that matters is how we react or not react at all.

I'm backtracking to the past two weeks of my very chaotic life. It takes a lot to bring out the worst in me. When I am at my worst, my hands shake with pent-up anger. I could get violent, that's why as much as possible, confrontation is a no-no. BUT, I am learning to stand up for what I believe in. I take pride in doing the best I can every first time. I am not stupid to be told repeatedly of what I should or should not work on. Some real friends even said that they can count on me to "hammer out the kinks" even on a short notice. BUT, I am starting to think that there's a downside to all these. I've been getting a ton of crappiness even when it's not my fault. Others assume that I can solve issues - even a file that is corrupted, cannot be opened or printed? Heck! If there's a title for "Techno Dummy", I'd surely win that one. Also, I am still the one "outside looking in" at work. Can't really have too much female bonding there because I've been on the losing end for some time now. People have been taking advantage, and what's really bad? I've let them. Going out of my way to take on more than I can handle. Eventhough I am able to accomplish my daily tasks satisfactorily, it's still a stupid move to get railroaded.

No sense of claiming self-righteousness here. I am not forcing anyone to like me. Or see things my way. Or work as hard as I do. All I am concerned about is taking responsibility and owning up to personal actions without blatant disregard to authority or anyone. Saying "thank you" isn't a lot to ask, right? Keeping a moderate tone of voice could help, too. And not barking out orders on a whim, just because you're the one who's paying to be served.

In the remaining weeks of 2007, I hope to have a better mindset on matters that I can never change. People may never turn the way you expect them to - there's always a margin of error for human frailty. I need to learn how to say NO to stressful duties. Have more meaningful friendships outside the workplace. Be part of a give-and-take partnership, either romantic or platonic. Sleep earlier (not at 1:30am!). Exercise more. Stay happy, or at least try to stay happy.

Even when everything that's MEAN is just nipping at my toes...ready to pounce on my butt with the least of provocation.

***

"Mabalos" to my friend, Faye for this post's title.

That Silent Scream

2007-11-28T07:46:00.000-08:00

I look forward to mealtime, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner. Even snacks, brunch, merienda or midnight eats. It's my way to unwind, catch up with what's-up-and-who's-out-there, and space out. But as much as I enjoy mealtime, I tend to backtrack on my thoughts whenever the food being served is not to my liking. Even the combination of tastes, texture, color and presentation could affect my overall mood. I don't say my displeasure out loud, altho sometimes I do. I even pass on the chance to eat just because I don't like what's infront of me.

That is the human error I've chosen to rectify. I will try not to be too picky with viand. As long as there is warm rice on the my plate, I will be fine. I will savor each bite and be thankful for all the people who've exerted a lot so that I can have the privilege to eat.

And I won't forget that: 21.5% of the Filipino population go hungry everyday. Approximately, that is 1 out of 5 Filipinos. As depicted by a TV docu I was able to watch last night, Filipino families in Maguindanao and Payatas get by with just one meal daily. It's usually a combination of either cooked corn and rice (with no ulam), cooked rice with soy sauce, cooked rice with salt, cooked rice with sugar or just plain cooked rice. Inspite of their meager meal, these folks show resiliency, gusto and happiness. Contentment, thankfulness and acceptance shine on their faces.

What an eye opener! The realization poured over me like a bucket of icy water. If these folks are grateful to have only one decent meal each day, I don't have any business complaining about the food I get to eat whenever I want. If these folks don't even get the chance to earn even the minimum daily wage, then I should be thankful for the pittance I get just by sitting on my butt, facing the computer, doing tons of paperwork and hearing swear words everyday. I don't have the right to beat myself up for the emptiness I feel caused by relationship problems because there are other folks out there who have bigger and unresolved concerns.

Life is unfair. The social divide that stands between the rich and the poor will always be there. The stench of poverty. The overruns of indulgence. The grip of hunger. The temptation of excessiveness.

Humanity is always two-pronged and double-edged.
It shouts at you from all corners.
Sad and real.
Distinct? Maybe.
Residual? Always.

Keeping Up With Half-Truths & False Pretenses

2007-11-18T20:34:00.000-08:00

How do I deal with these?

It's been a while since I've felt strongly about someone. I haven't been too great with showing my emotions nor am I the type to dwell too much on what anyone would say. I just hide behind a facade of jokes or laughter and try to project a certain level of coolness.

But when the lights are dimmed, after the day's work have been done, it's a different story. I am alone with my sadness, uncertainties and longings. It's a crazy mixture of feelings. And the tough chick I try to picture others to see comes crumbling down into bits. The tears I've cried last night, the tears I've never shed before and all the unspoken thoughts hurt me.

But in another sense, I am glad. Somehow. Even when I don't know where this could lead me to. Even when I don't know if the equation would ever be "me + him = us". Somehow I am buoyed by the thought that he makes me smile a lot (even when I am by myself). Somehow I know that he is there. Somehow I am sure that he's been sharing nice words to others about me. Somehow the fact that he's asked "where's the iloveyou?" from the note I sent him. Altho I never expected him to ask for those words, the thing is, he did. It's always a nice surprise - he is that way. Full of surprises. My silent type of guy. Not that he is MY guy but I'd like to think of him that way.

So even when my heart gets hurt again, I'll just wait and see. Give it time. Give him time. Give myself time. Who knows? Maybe time is all we need to be certain about each other. Distance could be a good thing for both of us. Silence is always a strong indication of what is unseen and not said.

As trite as it may sound, one day soon, I'll get the chance to see him again. Until that moment comes, I will be this way towards him.

Whatever his take on this may be.

Cheap Eats in the City of Naga

2007-11-03T19:05:00.002-07:00

above: craps, curry & rice

above: isaw chicharon, kikiam

above: fish crackers, balut & penoy

above: betamax, porben

above: isaw bbq, helmet

Are you adventurous enough to take on some of these yummy bites?

Halloween 2007

2007-11-01T00:03:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures I took with my cam fone last night at Avenue Square's Halloween Costume Party. A lot of kids in mystical, creepy and mythical garb were there going trick-or-treating. I'm starting to think that Halloween is beginning to rub on me. Last year it was in a former workplace with older co-workers. This year it's at Av Square. Next year, what will my Halloween be like?

Hear Again

2007-10-23T23:34:00.000-07:00

I was able to watch the edited international version of Desperate Housewives on Studio 23. The cutaway was done in such a manner that if your ears are not that sensitive, you'll miss it entirely. At least they did something even when the damage has been done.

Last night, I was exchanging text messages with my Padi Ric Lozano. We share the same sentiments about how pathetic the local broadcast media has become. Even Jo Osabal compares the new breed of djs to peddlers of fish in the wet market. Gone were the days when we get to hear witty jocktalk, nice music, clean segues, smooth on-air transitions and English speaking deejays. We can't help but compare this sorry status quo to our glorious radio lives. To accuse us of going downhill or sourgraping would be unjust. Why? For these reasons: we were part of the pioneering team of ABS-CBN's FM Radio Station in Naga City, dabbled into the hectic world of ABS-CBN news (both local and international), breezed thru promos, events and activities, and made our radio station (that's Star Radio!) Number 1 after only 6 months. That's an achievement still unbeaten to this day. It was always fun, fearless and fab. A legacy worth holding on to.

Or not.

So, what lead to this slow demise of responsible broadcasting? Ric pointed out that "you can't help but feel used by some people in the biz. No one gets paid. Panudok is a way of life". (Panudok is "money in exchange of on-air favors"). Etc.

If that's the case, I'm still wondering why our local KBP is not making its presence felt? Or maybe show some teeth and bite on this crappy-ness? What ever happened to responsibly owning the airwaves and being responsible to your listeners? Will envelopmental broadcasting ever end? What are those songs being played on the radio? Why the heck can't these so-called new deejays even speak simple, basic and straight English?

I know that I'm just a fish in this big pond of local radio biz. So I am doing myself a favor, including the unwilling victims who've fallen prey to the merciless attacks of those who call themselves new deejays. Please spare us. Stop the mindless and endless on-air chatter. Play on...responsibly. Afterall, the music never stops playing even when all the deejays have long gone home.

Desperate' apology over Philippines slur

2007-10-04T22:12:00.000-07:00

Yahoo News, Thu Oct 4, 6:46 AM ET

Makers of hit US television series "Desperate Housewives" have apologised for a slur against Filipino medical workers that caused an uproar in the Southeast Asian country.

The apology was sent to Philippine broadcaster ABS-CBN's bureau in the United States and aired in the Philippines on Thursday following protests by the Manila government.

"The producers of 'Desperate Housewives' and ABC Studios offer our sincere apologies for any offense caused by the brief reference in the season premiere," cable news channnel ANC quoted the statement as saying.

"There was no intent to disparage the integrity of any aspect of the medical community in the Philippines," it said.

The episode showed actress Teri Hatcher, who plays Susan Mayer, asking during a medical consultation to check "those diplomas because I want to make sure that they're not from some med school in the Philippines."...

My Take: FAIR ENOUGH.

DESPERATE SUSAN AND HER RACIAL SLUR

2007-10-04T08:17:00.002-07:00

Here's something for all bloggers out there. This is my edited version. You can read more of our (mine & Zar's) posts via: distanciaamiga.blogspot.com ... Happy blog hopping y'all!

By now, you've known about Teri Hatcher's uncalled-for dialog in Desperate Housewives. Yeah, the same dialog which caused an uproar amongst Pinoys here and overseas. Eventhough the people behind the network have been apologetic, I can only say that it was such "an irresponsible act to disguise creative genius". Well, that's just my thinking. So sue me!

I've always thought that really good Hollywood (or home-grown) actors (even 40-somethings-making-a-comeback) are smart enough to research on their scenes beforehand. Why is it that a supposedly sexy (well?), smart (huh?), classy (hmmm?) Hollywood actress got away with it? Somehow, not entirely. Pinoys are proud beacons of good genes, talents, skills, hard work, perseverance, loyalty, honesty, patience. Even taking on the responsibility of taking care of others all over the world. In case they don't know, the EXECUTIVE CHEF for the White House (yep, she cooks for the First Family there) is a Pinoy. And Chef Cris holds the distinction of being the only Filipina with such an esteemed post in the US' White House. The fate of America's First Family is literally in her hands (by way of breakfast, lunch, dinner and functions).

We don't deserve this treatment from anyone, you know. Paninira para kumita at para mag-rate ang show? Total crap.

Excerpts: Associated Press
LOS ANGELES - A scene in TV's "Desperate Housewives" that used Philippine medical education for a punchline prompted angry calls from viewers, an online petition demanding an apology and criticism from Philippine officials.

In the season premiere that aired Sunday on ABC, Teri Hatcher's character, Susan, goes in for a medical checkup and is shocked when the doctor suggests she may be going through menopause.

"Listen, Susan, I know for a lot of women the word `menopause'" has negative connotations. You hear `aging,' `brittle bones,' `loss of sexual desire,'" the gynecologist tells her.

"OK, before we go any further, can I check these diplomas? Just to make sure they aren't, like, from some med school in the Philippines?" Susan fires back.

PS. In my book, that was so KAKAINIS. Don't blame me when I say that I don't really like Desperate Housewives, hehehe.

Enjoy the rest of your day.

Arce

2007-10-02T23:35:00.000-07:00

"Only The Natural...Always".
Such a catchy tagline for a really delicious treat - Arce Dairy Ice Cream. It started out as a family business. And like any other business, Arce was not spared from being bought by another ice cream company, Selecta. Arce then became known as Selecta. Some time along the road, loyal friends of the Arce family started asking if their favorite ice cream would ever make a comeback. And it did made a comeback! The original Arce is once more, making waves in the ice cream industry.

Important: Just for the sake of comparison, Arce uses ONLY real fresh fruits and cow's milk, unlike other ice cream brands which use full cream milk and artificial flavorings. The result: A delightful-melt-in-your-mouth concoction! You can even smell, see and taste the difference!

This delightful experience led to Geri's business idea. Together with her sister and my high school best buddy George, they went ahead and opened up the very first Arce store in Naga. Slowly but surely, the initial plan of bringing a high-end ice cream brand within reach for the Nagueños and helping out in the family's finances... is already turning up its sweet corner. From the trickle of 500 pesos to 1K a week, their Arce Dairy Ice Cream store is now churning out a better ROI. There are now 2 Arce stores in Naga City, at the Avenue Square and at Robertson Centro. You won't miss its logo with shades of green, gold and white. Take your pick from its wide array of classic, regular and special flavors. Among chocolate, cookies and cream, strawberry, ube (purple yam), melon, blueberry, caramel, rocky road, choco peanut, mango, durian, among others. Vanilla remains as the bestseller. For the health buff, you can even get a scoop of green tea!

So, if you're craving for an extraordinary ice cream experience, make it Arce's Dairy Ice Cream - Available in sticks, scoops, cones, cups, pints, quarts, half-gallons or gallons. It's naturally good for you.

How about a scoop of Arce Dairy Ice Cream TODAY?

KC

2007-09-30T06:53:00.001-07:00

If you had the chance to watch her special last Sept 23, you know who I am writing about. Yep, THE KC of "KC from Paris to Pinas". I am such a fan and am happy to know that there she is - like a breath of fresh air in today's Pinoy show business. KC is nice, sweet, caring, intelligent, generous and kind-hearted. She accepted my friendster invite. Even replying to my message: "...kikay pa." with "Kikay? Absolutely." Needless to say, she is now on my friendster list of friends and I am on her list. Wow!

Thanks KC! I really mean that.
photo: www.flickr.com

FAKE, PLASTIC, TOXIC

2007-09-27T06:22:00.000-07:00

These are the three words that best describe some of the people I deal with, right here & right now. The nice people I know are definitely not included in this entry (YOU know who you are).
I am not going to drop names here. So if you get hit by what I've written down, let's just call it even.

Are you FAKE?
For more than two weeks, I've been subjected to really tough situations (at home and at work) which made me rack my skull, "Why do fake people even exist?". I may also be untrue yet I try hard to keep my promises. I may also be a two-faced liar but I don't lie all the time (altho I sometimes lie to save face, hehehe). I could be a cold-hearted person, still I don't feed on other peoples' misery. I am a fake too and I won't even claim to be perfect. What I don't understand: "How do you spot a fake person? Are there any markings, signs or indications of being fake? Can't we just be honest even to the point of being blunt? Why would people lie than tell the truth even if it kills them?

Do you take PLASTIC?
How would you react when you accidentally see a text message with your name on it? That same text message was sent to another person (whom you were able to trace) . That same text message contained bad words about you. That same text message was sent by a a girl who seemed unable to do something like that. Why could anyone be (plastic) and stupid enough not to erase the text message she's sent? Too bad for her, I was able to read it. And too bad for me as well, that's what I got for using someone else's mobile (I ran out of load credits, that's why!)

ALERT! TOXIC LEVELS Ahead!
Toxic substances kill. Not to be swallowed or ingested. Should be kept out of children's reach.
Toxic people can cause a slow, painful, lingering death. Maybe not physical death, but more on emotional death. Toxic people don't care if they hurt others. Toxic people get some kind of weird satisfaction when others squirm uncomfortably. Toxic people, in my opinion, are the worst kind. Rude. Hazardous. Deadly. Contaminated. Evil. But not entirely Invincible.

I feel so bad about what's happening. Why is it that the very people you care about are the ones that hurt you the most? I know I can't always please these people. I can only give what I can give and that is not even enough for them. Sometimes caring, concern and hard work turn into nothing. Remember that even a simple "thank you" can work wonders for a thoughtful deed done. A smile, keeping one's promise, lending a hand, respect, politeness, and all things nice.

Ultimately, it's not even the amount of material wealth we have that counts - It's how we've lived and dealt with the people around. No matter how hurtful, annoying, unfair or bad it may seem, it's still worth a try...all the time. Picking up the pieces can still be an art form and a way of life.

Singlehood

2007-09-19T22:03:00.000-07:00

Two short articles sourced from the worldwide web, in celebration of America's National Singles Week 2007.

Singles Are Happy Being Single Yahoo! Personals Survey Finds
By Rad Dewey

National Singles Week survey says singles believe they are more adventurous and in better physical shape than their married friends.

Singles are happy to be single, believe they're more open to new experiences, and in better physical shape than couples, according to a survey conducted for Yahoo! Personals by Harris Interactive. Survey results were released in honor of National Singles Week, Sept. 16-22.

Asked to compare themselves to married couples (or couples living together) 88 percent of the singles surveyed said they were happier or just as happy as their "coupled" peers. Also, 51 percent of singles said they were more open to new experiences while 33 percent at least as open to them.

Also, according to the survey findings, 78 percent of singles believe they are more or equally physically fit than their "coupled" peers. In their careers, 81 percent of the singles believe they were about as successful or more successful than the couples they knew. Some 61 percent of the singles surveyed said they were more self indulgent than their "coupled" peers.

Finally, 71 percent of the singles surveyed said they felt more or at least as financially secure as the couples they knew.

The 10 Best Things About Being Single
By Wendy Bolton Floyd and Judy Bolton

Singles often feel left out in our couple-driven society. Whenever you're tempted to feel down because of your singularity, remember these reasons why flying solo can be the best way to go:

1. You can make last-minute plans with your friends and stay out all night if you want.

2. You can lie on both sides of your bed and have all the covers to yourself.

3. You can flirt with the opposite sex without someone saying, "“Who are you looking at?”

4. You can make your own decisions.

5. You don't have to remember your significant other's birthday or anniversary.

6. You have no one to clean up after.

7. You can leave the toilet seat permanently up if you're a man, or permanently down if you're a woman.

8. You can make a list of things you always wanted to do...and actually do them.

9. You can listen to your favorite radio station in the car.

10. You can actually hold on to the remote control.

Taggin’ Thursday

2007-09-19T21:33:00.001-07:00

Here are my responses for the two tags from ZJ. Better late than later, hehehe.

And now on to the 1^st tag:
Where is your cell phone? Inside a small black leather pouch

Relationship? Happy Being Single

Your hair? Mid-back length, usually tied in a ponytail

Work? Admin Staff/Tutor/EntrePinoy/Freelance Writer

Your sister/s? Zobel & Kazzandra

Your favorite thing? My Samsung Edge SGH-900

Your dream last night? Nothing at all

Your favorite drink? Iced tea (plus coffee & milk)

Your dream car? SUV

The room you’re in? Office

Your shoes? Not today, I’m wearing Havaianas “world’s best rubber flip flops”. It’s raining here.

Your fears? Acrophobia. Hydrophobia. Not having more than enough money, hehehe.

What do you want to be in 10 years? A really successful EntrePinoy and writer

Who did you hang out with this weekend? Dhin2, at my house for a late fiesta dinner & drinks

What are you not good at? Math sometimes, self-explanatory.

Muffin? Blueberry muffins!

One of your wish list items? Olympus SP-500UZ

Where you grew up? Manila and Naga City, Philippines

Last thing you did? Had lunch.

What are you wearing? Blue jeans, light blue top

What aren’t you wearing? Blush-on

Your pet? Don’t have any pets

Your computer? PC (it’s a computer package, multi-trandemark)

Your life? “Makulay!”

Your mood? Depende sa panahon, hehehe.

Missing? Having really good friends around.

What are you thinking about right now? Prison Break Season 3

Your car? A red Nissan Sentra, she’s quite old but still running (family car).

Your kitchen? My science project? Disaster area? Laboratory?A work in progress.

Your summer? Sweltering…sobra!

Your favorite color? Blue, green

Last time you laughed? About 1 hour ago

Last time you cried? Last weekend

School? University of Nueva Caceres, Naga City

2^nd Tag: 10 Things I Hate…(or least like)
1. Food
Capers (slimy & salty). Soup (not too fond of it).

2. Fruits
Papaya

3. Veggies
Patola

4. People
”Promising” (those who never keep their words, puro promises lang). Lazy.

5. Event/Situation/Incident
Discrimination

6. TV Shows/Movies
I’m a TV-holic

7. Music
Some OPM rap

8. Household Chores
Dishwashing! (I’d rather cook than wash dishes)

9. Things around the world
Wars, Corruption. Injustice. Hate crimes. Racial prejudice.

10. Things about myself
I Hate My: impatience, stubbornness, being temperamental
I Like: being a hard worker, having fairly nice personality, staying on the swing of things

Proud To Be PINOY

2007-09-17T22:36:00.000-07:00

Found this on the net and I'm posting it verbatim. As you can see, it's written anonymously. Read on and find out more about the Glorious Brown Race.

100 Best Things About Being Pinoy
By: Anonymous

FROM the 1896 Revolution to the first Philippine Republic, the Commonwealth period, the EDSA Revolt, and the tiger cub economy, history marches on. Thankfully, however, some things never change. Like the classics, things irresistibly Pinoy mark us for life. They're the indelible stamp of our identity, the undeniable affinity that binds us like twins. They celebrate the good in us, the best of our culture and the infinite possibilities we are all capable of. Some are so self-explanatory you only need mention them for fellow Pinoys to swoon or drool. Here, from all over this Centennial-crazed country and in no particular order, are a hundred of the best things that make us unmistakably Pinoy.

Merienda. Where else is it normal to eat five times a day?

Sawsawan. Assorted sauces that guarantee freedom of choice, enough room for experimentation and maximum tolerance for diverse tastes. Favorites: toyo't calamansi, suka at sili, patis.

Kuwan, ano. At a loss for words? Try these and marvel at how Pinoys understand exactly what you want.

Pinoy humor and irreverence. If you're api and you know it, crack a joke. Nothing personal, really.

Tingi. Thank goodness for small entrepreneurs. Where else can we buy cigarettes, soap, condiments and life's essentials in small affordable amounts?

Spirituality. Even before the Spaniards came, ethnic tribes had their own anitos, bathalas and assorted deities, pointing to a strong relationship with the Creator, who or whatever it may be.

Po, opo, mano po. Speech suffixes that define courtesy, deference, filial respect--a balm to the spirit in these aggressive times.

Pasalubong. Our way of sharing the vicarious thrills and delights of a trip, and a wonderful excuse to shop without the customary guilt.

Beaches! With 7,000 plus islands, we have miles and miles of shoreline piled high with fine white sand, lapped by warm waters, and nibbled by exotic tropical fish. From the stormy seas of Batanes to the emerald isles of Palawan--over here, life is truly a beach.

Bagoong. Darkly mysterious, this smelly fish or shrimp paste typifies the underlying theme of most ethnic foods: disgustingly unhygienic, unbearably stinky and simply irresistible.

Bayanihan. Yes, the internationally-renowned dance company, but also this habit of pitching in still common in small communities. Just have that cold beer and some pulutan ready for the troops.

The Balikbayan box. Another way of sharing life's bounty, no matter if it seems like we're fleeing Pol Pot every time we head home from anywhere in the globe. The most wonderful part is that, more often than not, the contents are carted home to be distributed.

Pilipino komiks. Not to mention "Hiwaga," "Aliwan," "Tagalog Classics," "Liwayway" and"Bulaklak" magazines. Pulpy publications that gave us Darna, Facifica Falayfay, Lagalag, Kulafu, Kenkoy, Dyesebel, characters of a time both innocent and worldly.

Folk songs. They come unbidden and spring, full blown, like a second language, at the slightest nudge from the too-loud stereo of a passing jeepney or tricycle.

Fiesta. Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow is just another day, shrugs the poor man who, once a year, honors a patron saint with this sumptuous, no-holds-barred spread. It's a Pinoy celebration at its pious and riotous best.

Aswang, manananggal, kapre. The whole underworld of Filipino lower mythology recalls our uniquely bizarre childhood, that is, before political correctness kicked in. Still, their rich adventures pepper our storytelling.

Jeepneys. Colorful, fast, reckless, a vehicle of postwar Pinoy ingenuity, this Everyman's communal cadillac makes for a cheap, interesting ride. If the driver's a daredevil (as they usually are), hang on to your seat.

Dinuguan. Blood stew, a bloodcurdling idea, until you try it with puto. Best when mined with jalapeño peppers. Messy but delicious.

Santacruzan. More than just a beauty contest, this one has religious overtones, a tableau of St. Helena's and Constantine's search for the Cross that seamlessly blends piety, pageantry and ritual. Plus, it's the perfect excuse to show off the prettiest ladies--and the most beautiful gowns.

Balut. Unhatched duck's embryo, another unspeakable ethnic food to outsiders, but oh, to indulge in guilty pleasures! Sprinkle some salt and suck out that soup, with gusto.

Pakidala. A personalized door-to-door remittance and delivery system for overseas Filipino workers who don't trust the banking system, and who expect a family update from the courier, as well.

Choc-nut. Crumbly peanut chocolate bars that defined childhood ecstasy before M & M's and Hershey's.

Kamayan style. To eat with one's hand and eschew spoon, fork and table manners--ah, heaven.

Chicharon. Pork, fish or chicken crackling. There is in the crunch a hint of the extravagant, the decadent and the pedestrian. Perfect with vinegar, sublime with beer.

Pinoy hospitality. Just about everyone gets a hearty "Kain tayo!" invitation to break bread with whoever has food to share, no matter how skimpy or austere it is.

Adobo, kare-kare, sinigang and other lutong bahay stuff. Home-cooked meals that have the stamp of approval from several generations, who swear by closely-guarded cooking secrets and family recipes.

Lola Basyang. The voice one heard spinning tales over the radio, before movies and television curtailed imagination and defined grown-up tastes.

Pambahay. Home is where one can let it all hang out, where clothes do not make a man or woman but rather define their level of comfort.

Tricycle and trisikad, the poor Pinoy's taxicab that delivers you at your doorstep for as little as PHP 3.00, with a complimentary dusting of polluted air.

Dirty ice cream. Very Pinoy flavors that make up for the risk: munggo, langka, ube, mais, keso, macapuno. Plus there's the colorful cart that recalls jeepney art.

Yayas. The trusted Filipino nanny who, ironically, has become a major Philippine export as overseas contract workers. A good one is almost like a surrogate parent--if you don't mind the accent and the predilection for afternoon soap and movie stars.

Sarsi. Pinoy rootbeer, the enduring taste of childhood. Our grandfathers had them with an egg beaten in.

Pinoy fruits. Atis, guyabano, chesa, mabolo, lanzones, durian, langka, makopa, dalanghita, siniguelas, suha, chico, papaya, singkamas--the possibilities!

Filipino celebrities. Movie stars, broadcasters, beauty queens, public officials, all-around controversial figures: Aurora Pijuan, Cardinal Sin, Carlos P. Romulo, Charito Solis, Cory Aquino, Emilio Aguinaldo, the Eraserheads, Fidel V. Ramos, Francis Magalona, Gloria Diaz, Manuel L. Quezon, Margie Moran, Melanie Marquez, Ninoy Aquino, Nora Aunor, Pitoy Moreno, Ramon Magsysay, Richard Gomez, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Sharon Cuneta, Gemma Cruz, Erap, Tiya Dely, Mel and Jay, Gary V. etc.

World class Pinoys who put us on the global map: Lea Salonga, Paeng Nepomuceno, Eugene Torre, Luisito Espinosa, Lydia de Vega-Mercado, Jocelyn Enriquez, Elma Muros, Onyok Velasco, Efren "Bata" Reyes, Lilia Calderon-Clemente, Loida Nicolas-Lewis, Josie Natori etc.

Pinoy tastes. A dietitian's nightmare: too sweet, too salty, too fatty, as in burong talangka, itlog na maalat, crab fat (aligue), bokayo, kutchinta, sapin-sapin, halo-halo, pastilyas, palitaw, pulburon, longganisa, tuyo, ensaymada, ube haleya, sweetened macapuno and garbanzos. Remember, we're the guys who put sugar (horrors) in our spaghetti sauce. Yum!

The sights. Banaue Rice Terraces, Boracay, Bohol's Chocolate Hills, Corregidor Island, Fort Santiago, the Hundred Islands, the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ, Rizal Park, Mt. Banahaw, Mayon Volcano, Taal Volcano. A land of contrasts and ever-changing landscapes.

Gayuma, agimat and anting-anting. Love potions and amulets. How the socially-disadvantaged Pinoy copes.

Barangay Ginebra, Jaworski, PBA, MBA and basketball. How the verticaly-challenged Pinoy compensates, via a national sports obsession that reduces fans to tears and fistfights.

People Power at EDSA. When everyone became a hero and changed Philippine history overnight.

San Miguel Beer and pulutan. "Isa pa nga!" and the Philippines' most popular, world-renowned beer goes well with peanuts, corniks, tapa, chicharon, usa, barbecue, sisig, and all manner of spicy, crunchy and cholesterol-rich chasers.

Resiliency. We've survived 400 years of Spanish rule, the US bases, Marcos, the 1990 earthquake, lahar, lambada, Robin Padilla, and Tamagochi. We'll survive Erap.

Yoyo. Truly Filipino in origin, this hunting tool, weapon, toy and merchandising vehicle remains the best way to "walk the dog" and "rock the baby," using just a piece of string.

Pinoy games: Pabitin, palosebo, basagan ng palayok. A few basic rules make individual cunning and persistence a premium, and guarantee a good time for all.

Ninoy Aquino. For saying that "the Filipino is worth dying for,'' and proving it.

Balagtasan. The verbal joust that brings out rhyme, reason and passion on a public stage.

Tabo. All-powerful, ever-useful, hygienically-triumphant device to scoop water out of a bucket and help the true Pinoy answer nature's call. Helps maintain our famously stringent toilet habits.

Pandesal. Despite its shrinking size, still a good buy. Goes well with any filling, best when hot.

Jollibee. Truly Pinoy in taste and sensibility, and a corporate icon that we can be quite proud of. Do you know that it's invaded the Middle East, even Las Vegas as well?

The butanding, the dolphins and other creatures in our blessed waters. They're Pinoys, too, and they're here to stay. Now if some folks would just stop turning them into daing.

Pakikisama. It's what makes people stay longer at parties, have another drink, join pals in sickness and health. You can get dead drunk and still make it home.

Sing-a-long. Filipinos love to sing, and thank God a lot of us do it well!

Kayumanggi. Neither pale nor dark, our skin tone is beautifully healthy, the color of a rich earth or a mahogany tree growing towards the sun.

Handwoven cloth and native weaves. Colorful, environment-friendly alternatives to polyester that feature skillful workmanship and a rich indigenous culture behind every thread. From the pinukpok of the north to the malong of the south, it's the fiber of who we are.

Movies. Still the cheapest form of entertainment, especially if you watch the same movie several times.

Bahala na. We cope with uncertainty by embracing it, and are thus enabled to play life by ear.

Papaitan. An offal stew flavored with bile, admittedly an acquired taste, but pointing to our national ability to acquire a taste for almost anything.

English. Whether carabao or Arr-neoww-accented, it doubles our chances in the global marketplace.

The Press. Irresponsible, sensational, often inaccurate, but still the liveliest in Asia. Otherwise, we'd all be glued to TV.

Divisoria. Smelly, crowded, a pickpocket's paradise, but you can get anything here, often at rock-bottom prices. The sensory overload is a bonus.

Barong Tagalog. Enables men to look formal and dignified without having to strangle themselves with a necktie. Worn well, it makes any ordinary Juan look marvelously makisig.

Filipinas. They make the best friends, lovers, wives. Too bad they can't say the same for Filipinos.

Filipinos. So maybe they're bolero and macho with an occasional streak of generic infidelity; they do know how to make a woman feel like one.

Catholicism. What fun would sin be without guilt? Jesus Christ is firmly planted on Philippine soil.

Dolphy. Our favorite, ultra-durable comedian gives the beleaguered Pinoy everyman an odd dignity, even in drag.

Style. Something we often prefer over substance. But every Filipino claims it as a birthright.

Bad taste. Clear plastic covers on the vinyl-upholstered sofa, posters of poker-playing dogs masquerading as art, overaccessorized jeepneys and altars--the list is endless, and wealth only seems to magnify it.

Mangoes. Crisp and tart, or lusciously ripe, they evoke memories of family outings and endless sunshine in a heart-shaped package.

Unbridled optimism. Why we rank so low on the suicide scale.

Street food: Barbecue, lugaw, banana-cue, fishballs, IUD (chicken entrails), adidas (chicken feet), warm taho. Forget hepatitis; here's cheap, tasty food with gritty ambience.

The siesta. Snoozing in the middle of the day is smart, not lazy.

Honorifics and courteous titles: Kuya, ate, diko, ditse, ineng, totoy, Ingkong, Aling, Mang, etc. No exact English translation, but these words connote respect, deference and the value placed on kinship.

Heroes and people who stood up for truth and freedom. Lapu-lapu started it all, and other heroes and revolutionaries followed: Diego Silang, Macario Sakay, Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Apolinario Mabini, Melchora Aquino, Gregorio del Pilar, Gabriela Silang, Miguel Malvar, Francisco Balagtas, Juan Luna, Marcelo H. del Pilar, Panday Pira, Emilio Jacinto, Raha Suliman, Antonio Luna, Gomburza, Emilio Aguinaldo, the heroes of Bataan and Corregidor, Pepe Diokno, Satur Ocampo, Dean Armando Malay, Evelio Javier, Ninoy Aquino, Lola Rosa and other comfort women who spoke up, honest cabbie Emilio Advincula, Rona Mahilum, the women lawyers who didn't let Jalosjos get away with rape.

Flora and fauna. The sea cow (dugong), the tarsier, calamian deer, bearcat, Philippine eagle, sampaguita, ilang-ilang, camia, pandan, the creatures that make our archipelago unique.

Pilipino songs, OPM and composers: "Ama Namin," "Lupang Hinirang," "Gaano Ko Ikaw Kamahal," "Ngayon at Kailanman," "Anak," "Handog,""Hindi Kita Malilimutan," "Ang Pasko ay Sumapit"; Ryan Cayabyab, George Canseco, Restie Umali, Levi Celerio, Manuel Francisco, Freddie Aguilar, and Florante, etc--living examples of our musical gift.

Metro Aides. They started out as Imelda Marcos' groupies, but have gallantly proven their worth. Against all odds, they continuously prove that cleanliness is next to godliness--especially now that those darned candidates' posters have to be scraped off the face of Manila!

Sari-sari store. There's one in every corner, offering everything from bananas and floor wax to Band-Aid and bakya.

Philippine National Red Cross. PAWS. Caritas. Fund drives. They help us help each other.

Favorite TV shows through the years: "Tawag ng Tanghalan," "John and Marsha," "Champoy," "Ryan, Ryan Musikahan," "Kuwarta o Kahon," "Public Forum/Lives," "Student Canteen," "Eat Bulaga", etc. In the age of inane variety shows, they have redeemed Philippine television (well, sort of).

Quirks of language that can drive crazy any tourist listening in: "Bababa ba?" "Bababa!"

"Sayang!" "Naman!" "Kadiri!" "Ano ba!?" "pala" “Sobra” Expressions that defy translation but wring out feelings genuinely Pinoy.

Cockfighting. Filipino men love it more than their wives (sometimes).

Dr. Jose Rizal. A category in himself. Hero, medicine man, genius, athlete, sculptor, fictionist, poet, essayist, husband, lover, samaritan, martyr. Truly someone to emulate and be proud of, anytime, anywhere.

Nora Aunor. Short, dark and homely-looking, she redefined our rigid concept of how leading ladies should look.

Noranian or Vilmanian. Defines the friendly rivalry between Ate Guy Aunor and Ate Vi Santos and for many years, the only way to be for many Filipino fans.

Filipino Christmas. The world's longest holiday season. A perfect excuse to mix our love for feasting, gift-giving and music and wrap it up with a touch of religion.

Relatives and kababayan abroad. The best refuge against loneliness, discrimination and confusion in a foreign place. Distant relatives and fellow Pinoys readily roll out the welcome mat even on the basis of a phone introduction or referral.

Festivals: Sinulog, Ati-atihan, Moriones. Sounds, colors, pagan frenzy and Christian overtones.

Folk dances. Tinikling, pandanggo sa ilaw, kari?sa, kuratsa, itik-itik, alitaptap, rigodon. All the right moves and a distinct rhythm.

Native wear and costumes. Baro't saya, tapis, terno, saya, salakot, bakya. Lovely form and ingenious function in the way we dress.

Sunday family gatherings. Or, close family ties that never get severed. You don't have to win the lotto or be a president to have 10,000 relatives. Everyone's family tree extends all over the archipelago, and it's at its best in times of crisis; notice how food, hostesses, money, and moral support materialize during a wake?

Calesa and karitela. The colorful and leisurely way to negotiate narrow streets when loaded down with a year's provisions.

Quality of life. Where else can an ordinary employee afford a stay-in helper, a yaya, unlimited movies, eat-all-you-can buffets, the latest fashion (Baclaran nga lang), even Viagra in the black market?

All Saints' Day. In honoring our dead, we also prove that we know how to live.

Handicrafts. Shellcraft, rattancraft, abaca novelties, woodcarvings, banig placemats and bags, bamboo windchimes, etc. Portable memories of home. Hindi lang pang-turista, pang-balikbayan pa!

Pinoy greens. Sitaw. Okra. Ampalaya. Gabi. Munggo. Dahon ng Sili. Kangkong. Luya. Talong. Sigarillas. Bataw. Patani. Lutong bahay will never be the same without them.

OCWs. The lengths (and miles) we'd go for a better life for our family, as proven by these modern-day heroes of the economy.

The Filipino artist. From Luna's magnificent "Spoliarium" and Amorsolo's sun-kissed ricefields, to Ang Kiukok's jarring abstractions and Borlongan's haunting ghosts, and everybody else in between. Hang a Filipino painting on your wall, and you're hanging one of Asia's best.

Tagalog soap operas. From "Gulong ng Palad" and "Flor de Luna" to today's incarnations like "Mula sa Puso", etc--they're the story of our lives, and we feel strongly for them, MariMar notwithstanding.

Midnight madness, weekends sales, bangketas and baratillos. It's retail therapy at its best, with Filipinos braving traffic, crowds, and human deluge to find a bargain.

Fiesta 2007...and more

2007-09-10T00:27:00.000-07:00

September is Peñafrancia month in Naga City, in CamSur Province and in the rest of the Bikolano communities all over the world. The festivities usually open with the Traslacion (transfer of Ina's image from the Basilica Minore to her temporary 9-day abode at the Naga Met Cathedral) while the Fluvial Procession caps the feast. It's a ten-day celebration that showcases the best of Naga & Bikol; its tourists, devotees, food, funfare, parades, pageants, trade shows, exhibits, contests, and eveything that depicts "An Maogmang Lugar".

One note-worthy spectacle is the Wonderful World of Dolphins with the Sea Lions plus an Aqua Park at the LCC Mall. For a minimal fee (Php 400 VIP reserved & Php 250 regular), you get the chance to see 2 pairs each of dolphins & sea lions - frolic, do tricks and provide enchantment even for a limited time. It's been said that these exotic mammals came from Subic. There are three shows per day so that the intense heat of the sun will not do that much harm to these animals. Also, a lot of dolphin stuff and souvenirs are yours for the taking inside LCC.

At the Plaza Rizal, a huge smorgasboard of clothes, mobiles, shoes, glassware, food, trinkets, native products and dvds are being peddled. Get your best haggling on ready mode. Wear the most comfy attire/shoes. Bring more than enough cash or if you can handle it, stay within your budget.

All over Naga & Bikol, schools are gearing up for the various competitions (civic and military parade), while beauteous Bicolanas are looking forward to being crowned as one of the fairest in the Region. Concerts, dances, mall shows, live bands and other music-related trippings are also being offered.

This year's feast marks the collaborative efforts of the Archdiocese of Caceres and congregration as it gears up for the Tricentenary Celebration of the Bikolanos Devotion to Ina, Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia. After almost 300 years of undying love, piety, fervor and faithfulness. Ina will always be "solace" to the Nagueños & Bikolanos, wherever they may be.

Caramoan

2007-09-05T23:16:00.002-07:00

Clear blue waters. Limestone formation. Endless skies. Unending coastline. Fresh air. Sea. Waves. Tranquil. Unspoiled. Breathtaking. Awesome. Enchanting. Exotic white sand beaches. Alluring. Haven. Idyllic. Unforgettable Paradise.

HISTORY: The name Caramoan has been officially used since 1619, the date when it was founded by Fray Francisco de la Cruz y Oropesa. The first name given to this place was Gota de Leche by the Dutch traders.

WORD PLAY:
"caramo-an" - what beautiful things you're wearing
"carahan" - a sea turtle abundantly found along the peninsula's shores
"nagka-cararamoan" - breaking one's teeth
"namo" - a wild plant

HOW TO GET THERE: From Manila, take a plane (55 minutes) or a bus (8 hours) going to Naga City. At the Central Bus Terminal, take a bus or a van (2 hours) going to Brgy. Sabang, San Jose. You should be there before 10AM. Catch the boat (2 hours ride) bound to Brgy. Guijalo, Caramoan. At the port of Guijalo, take a jeepney or tricycle going to the town proper of Caramoan.

Dagos po Kamo sa ...CARAMOAN!

Tagged! Twice As Nice

2007-08-03T07:15:00.001-07:00

I'm taking the time to post my answers (re: 2 tags from ZJ.)
These are bits of info about me and nothing too cerebral.

PART 1 - Tag 1: 8 Facts About Me

Uno - I've always wanted to be a doctor. Even as a little girl, I've been fascinated with anything related to medicine. I've dreamt of being a surgeon (Way before ER/Grey's Anatomy/medical TV dramas) or a pedia or a trauma medic. Sadly, when I entered college...I took up AB English instead. Yep, with much annoyance (my mom insisted that I obey her) and even when I reasoned out that I can apply for a scholarship after pre-med. I tried to bargain for Mechanical Engineering but, to no avail. Her reason? It's not good to have 3.0's as grades in Mech Eng. So I got stuck in a very easy major. Hehe, easy-peasy and with triple scholarships in college. It was fun but not too mentally challenging. And to follow through with my Hippocratic dream, I took First Aid exercises, volunteered as a firefighter, had Rescue trainings, studied Caregiver course and read anything about this field. I am able to dispense trivia about practical tips and health ideas, but always ending it with "it's still best to consult your doctor".

Dos - I can cook. I can bake. It's all self-taught. As long as you're able to read a cookbook, follow instructions, never afraid to tweak seasonings or ingredients around, and have tons of willing tasters. What started me off was the real need for good breakfast everyday. I feel sad when there's no breakfast food on the table. I don't ask for fancy or gourmet, but a girl can only wonder aloud why it's always: eggs/hotdog/dried fish/fried rice/bread/the-viand-that-tasted-
amazing-for-dinner-still-ended-up-as-rehashed-breakfast, etc. So, when I got my oven, I went on a baking and cooking frenzy. With the tools and tricks of the trade and a lot of guts, nothing stood in my way. Yep, I am happy to say that I can cook and I can bake. I even earn some cash along the way.

Tres - I recycle, re-use and refuse. That's the simplest thing I can do to help in protecting Mother Nature. At home, there is garbage segregation. Old clothes are packed and turned into hand-me-downs. Turn off the lights when not in use. Just buy what's needed. Carpool. Use public transport. My small deeds of kindness for the environment.

Quatro - I am a certified single. Yep, it's a happy state-of-being. No one to prevent you from pursuing your wanderlust. No one to check on your whereabouts. Yet there are days when I feel sad being by my lonesome, wondering if I'm meant to be alone forever (oh no!!!), hating everybody else's coupledom (argh, get a room!!!), and not getting any romantic kiss/hug when I desperately need one or both. Hey, I don't need Mr. Right, just Mr. Right Now. Any takers?

Cinco - My idea of a perfect day is: overcast skies, no rain, no sun, clouds hovering, cool breeze. Team that up with bottomless iced tea, clear ocean waters and great company. No work. No worries. Heaven. Bliss.

Seis - In terms of work, I aim to deliver the goods, the best way possible. Planning. Organizing. Details. Contingencies. Handling setback. Options. Whatever it takes to do the job right. I've come to believe that doing anything right every "1st" time has its rewards. Nothing is wasted. It's being a pro. It's taking responsibility. It's a reflection of who a person is, what he/she is capable or not capable of. Deadlines just too much pressure, anyway.

Siete - I've had my share of the unexplained and the supernatural. Sometimes I get visions, hear voices, see what's on the next frame sort-of-thing. Some call it a gift. I call it my backup blessing. It can be scary. But the feeling that kindred spirits and guides are there - all these are worth it.

Ocho - Eight is my favorite number. My first name has eight letters. Eight stands for infinity.

PART 2 - Tag 2: The Face Behind The Blog

Ahem...This is SAM.
I really love my nickname. In the military, SAM stands for Surface-to-Air Missile. It's a label for a hotdog endorsed by Sam Milby (Is that a coincidence or what?). A masculine nickname for a 100% femme. I am a happy Single and I just don't get it when some people make a big deal out of my civil status. Can anyone blame me for holding out for the One? I am sure it's worth the wait, hehe. I enjoy hanging out with family and friends. Books, movies, food, coffee, vodka, travel, sunset, ice cream, breads and music are some of my interests. I hope to be able to swim with dolphins, have my own 3P (pastry-pasta-picapica) business, and really volunteer for VSO someday. The words multitasking, serendipity, aurora borealis, peanut butter and flavanoids make me smile. My work experiences range from trimedia, customer outsourcing, tutorials, education and construction. Not really a techie but I try to learn the basics of hitech. I like makeup (mostly mascara and lip gloss), dressing up sometimes, foot spa, manicure and peds, hairstyles, body lotion, body powder (Johnson's Baby Powder is still tops for me), sneakers, sandals, flipflops, jeans, shirts, body sprays and other girly stuff. Not to be vain but to look and feel good. I cherish my friends (near or far). If I'd be given the chance to interview 3 people, I'd choose: Oprah Winfrey, Pope Benedict and Lea Salonga. I share the same birthday with Albert Einstein (sadly, I'm not a genius) and the late Rico Yan (whom I was able to interview during my radio stint at ABS-CBN Naga, spent time with when he graced the opening of Greenwich-Naga, and be lucky enough to get a kiss from this really gracious person. Oh yes, Rico Yan kissed my neck - he missed my cheek by approximately 5 inches.) I'll always think of him as my angel.

As a water sign, I'm forever changing. Going with the flow. Deep. Silent. Turbulent at times.
As an Ox, I'm steadfast, dependable and hardworking.
I am SAM - Maorag na taga-Bikol. Kayumanging Kaligatan. Proudly Pinay.

NOTE: Pictured above: Me and my two sweet brothers-in-law, Jay (left) and Al (right).