Missing in Action

So my office printer went kaput last week, and so, we had to bring it to the people who made it. Hence, printer-less, i am here at work, with about a dozen things to print on qeue, and nothing much to do.

Hahah. Thank God for blogging.

While working on stuff which need to be printed, i browse and occupy my time checking out websites, other blogs and thinking of ways to make my life more financially abundant. (No kidding, i am thisclose to being broke. damn that caffeine urge!)

*sigh* I have stocked my cubicle with enough books and magazines to distract me from the gnawing fact that my deadline is being pushed further down and will eventually pile up to a magnanimous size. Argh. I hate the anticipation of work i cannot handle.

I hate feeling helpless.

On a lighter note, I have recently "re-learned" the joy of reading. Almost everything in sight. Somehow, the past few days of not doing much has given me enough initiative to read almost anything --- books, magazines, coffee labels, even those dastardly ads along EDSA.

Some recommendations though: After reading Cook's Illustrated (it's a magazine), i am anticipating to do some QT in the kitchen and make those lovely food items! :-) Also, a quick read among my Sandman collections has gotten me hooked once again with the famous Endless. A close second to these are the usual Time and Newsweek staples, courtesy of 711. :-D

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Congrats on my sweetie for getting in USC! :-X mmwah!

summer time blues

I guess i should have expected it.

For some time now i have been dodging the issue and concentrated on something else. Now, it dawns to me that being 24 (and close to 25 i might add), semi-dependent on family, unorganized and stress-filled to the bone almost every day is NOT the situation i wanted to put myself in. Ever. So with mounting frustration and perplexion, i try to rack my brains for things to do to sort out (literally and figuratively) my life before i hit the big 2-5.

First things first: Clean it up. My clutter has extended from unresolved issues and unanswered questions about the past into my material clutter. Too much baggae, so to speak. What to do? One thing: GARAGE SALE. So, kiddos of the Q.C. area (and the nearby peeps), please note an upcoming garage sale which will consist of shoes, bags, shirts, dresses, cds, books, some furniture and the like...not just my stuff but also a few friends'.

Secondly:Make moolah. Illustrator freelancer, at your service! I am open for short illustration work, check out my work! :-)

Lastly: Travel more. Only then can i truly experience life... hah! I am doing first two to achieve this goal. :-P An upcoming trip back to my hometown will (i hope) jolt me out of the routine i have recently succumbed to, as well as quench some of the wanderlust i've been feeling (it is summer, after all!)

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Am i getting older...

... or are there just too many assholes in the building?

For the past two days, i haven't been able to sleep well due to some boisterous noise coming from the room directly below us. Laughter (hysterical at that), shouts and giggly ditzy guys and gals shrieking their heads off till the early a.m. --- WTF!?! They're new, i guess, or they just have this "after school" thing going on. But really--- during HOly Week!?! They are, i presume, students form a christian based school, so i believe they know what holy week means. So why the HELL would they want to go shrieking into the night, forgetting all decency and just launch into a full blast laughfest without even thinking about the discomfort they give their neighbors?

I can take that kind of crap, really. I did that too, when i was in college. What i can't take is that crap incessantly into the night. Granted, these kids may be enjoying the summer days by partying, but must they continually shriek till 5am?

Even throughout the day, you can hear them talking --- talking! HELLO! Have you ever heard of talking quietly? It would be better if you just closed the windows to keep the noise in, but no! You just have to tell it to not just the people in the room, but to the entire Loyola Heights neighborhood. Well, i've got news for you --- WE DON"T GIVE A RAT's ASS ABOUT IT! Besides, must you keep you windows open, and constantly sing off-key to some sappy love song?!? ARGH. And enough of the Barbra Streisand singing already! Geez! The entire metro does NOT want to hear you sing!!!

I wish they would be more sensitive about what they do. After all, they live in a freakin' building. People who work use this time to either go out of town or get some much-needed rest (read: SLEEP) so that's just being inconsiderate on their part. Balang araw, pag nagtatarabaho na kayo, sige, tingnan natin kung ano gagawin nyo sa mga sitwasyon na yan...

Where is the reflection and all that jazz they teach you in school!? Geez... masyadong spoiled ang mga tao na yan...leche...

All we need is...

all we need
Originally uploaded by mcsister.

*cue Beatles' song*

Thanks to McSister, this pic depicts what i yearn for --- to see the actual street art, and more sublimely, the emotion to be shared by all mankind.

Thursday

Sabihin man nila na di ako Kristyano, wala akong kebs. Nasa Maynila ako ngayon, walang ginagwa kundi magtunganga sa tapat ng monitor. Di ako mapakali. Trabaho, trabaho, yun na lang ata inaalala ko ngayon. Nalulungkot ako dahil kahit ang buhay ko sa labas nito naapektuhan na. Maliit na bagay, napapalaki ko... argh. nakakapikpn.

Ewan ko ba, parang kabado ang loob ko sa mga naririnig kong balita... ilang araw lang, may isang ka-eskwelang namatay dahil pinagtanggol nya ang sarili nya at ang kanyang gf. Ngayon, narinig ko na ang kapatid ng isang matalik na kaibigan ay pinatay, binaril sa ulo, at ang suspek ay nawawala ngayon.

Hay ewan ko ba.

Talaga bang sa hirap ng buhay nagsisimula ito? O di kaya meron talagang masasamang tao sa mundo? Di man lang nila naiisip ang mga hinanakit na binibigay nila sa mga pamilya ng mga taong ito...

*haaay*

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Flowers for Merwin

Flowers for Merwin
Originally uploaded by psychicpants.

my sympathies and prayers to his family.

*silence, please*

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Mangogurl recounts her friend's untimely death.

sunday soccer

soccer_team
Originally uploaded by bunnie_lette.

The gang's all here!

Tried some soccer last sunday which resulted to some interesting play (try to defend your ball while being scared to death by an oppoent screaming his way towards you), cheers and dancin' on the field (how can you play with Nelly's music in the background?) and a couple of spills (my sprained ankle, is doin' fine, thanks), not to mention some newly-formed friendships.

Cha was such a kewl "soccer mom" with her gummi treats and support (complete with picture-taking -- thanks Cha!), Deb was fantastic as a teammate, my sweetie such a trooper (and an amazing goalie!) , Edel and Dave adding fun factors to the game and Aileen a great player!

The Sunday soccer peeps were one accomodating bunch, considering we kinda "joined" them on a whim. They were, from what i gathered, professionals whose love for the game unites them every sunday, and compels them to meet up at the field near Moro gym.

We even got to play with Silvio, this guy from Mauricius, who turned out to be pretty serious about the competition (kinda waned my fun level a tad after a while). For me, it was more about the fun of it all --- he kinda zapped that after some time playin'. Nonetheless, the competitive spirit jolted some of the more serious players into getting into the game and playin' more aggressively.

Can't wait til next sunday! :-)

Panelist for a day

I was recently a panelist for one of my former teachers' thesis presentation, along with two of the college's graduates, Lyra and Mark. Lyra is a freelance artist/painter, whose works you usually see in glossies and galleries. Mark, another visual communicator, teaches at the College and is freelancing as a graphic artist too.

Though it was kinda last minute, i was happy to go to the college and check out the recent work of 3rd year students. Being a panelist, you are given the power to mold the outcome of the students' grade. I was surprised i was invited, since my work experience doesn't really qualify me (i feel) to grade somebody else's. It's kinda flattering though, to be taken into consideration to viewing and reviewing works of students. I was both excited and nervous, and hoping not to sound too bitchy about stuff i didn't like.

The day went well, with 9 groups presenting, all with variety and different approaches to their creative solution. Most, i saw, didn't really think about the effectivity of their marketing and creative output, relying more on the novelty than the efecctiveness of reaching their audience through the medium. I was impresses, however, at the technology they utilized for presentation. Back in the day, we were toiling hard to create ours by hand. heheh.

Hmmm. How would i rate myself as a panelist? A little bit of the soft side, considering i was pretty careful on what i was saying. I remember the cutting words my panelist said when i was presenting before, and it stung. I just hope that i was able to impart opinions and suggestions which they will heed and take note of, rather than detest. :-P

Kudos to the students for their effort, though their presentation skills left much to be desired. A couple of groups had promise, with their research well done, yet their creative output still askew. The rest, well, let's just say that their presentation could have put more emphasis and oomph to their grade, but sadly, it lacked even that. Still, it is junior year. The promise and challenge of senior year looms ahead, so i hope that our recommendations would be taken note of when they do their final thesis.

On the good side, it was kewl to exchange ideas with Lyra, Mitzy and Mark. :-) Nice seein you guys! :-D

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Fight Club

Yesterday's big fight may have been a defeat, but it definitely united the country, even for just a day.

I'm not a big fan of boxing, but i am pretty impressed and supportive of Manny Pacquiao, whose size and humble background did not deter him from being one of the country's top boxers. It was painful to see him get outboxed by Morales because of the deep cut he got from the head butt. Sans cut, he would have easily defeated Morales (no offense to the guy, but man, Pacquaio just kept on hitting him like crazy, and hard too!) Though defeated, i am proud to see him leave, humbly conceding his defeat, yet proudly keeping his chin up, truly the champion that he is.

Iba talaga ang Pinoy. Asteeg!

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holy week

Semana santa is upon us.

Fervent is my province's belief in holy week that as early as today most private workplaces are being dismissed and families are clamoring to go back home to visit and spend the week lying around and well, praying i guess. I never had that fervent drive in my family, as we usually just take it as a week for doing house chores and catch up on what's happening with each other. Sadly, this holy week i'll be stuck in the metro for some personal R&R.

Waitaminute --- what R&R?!

Hahaha. Seems like i'm expecting work to bug me even during the two-day holiday (Maudy Thurs & Good Fri) since we'll be opening a new outlet. (I envy my boss who's somewhere in Thailand soaking some sun) So today, at work, i have decided to delineate a plan of action to spend my holy week in a not-so-boring manner. That said, here are tentative plans so far:

* Catch up with freelance work (my so-called book project with my cuz, semi-in the works)
* Watch Sopranos season5 in DVD (whoo-hoo! finally, i can enjoy it all night long without having to wake up early the next day)
* Sleep (Lord knows i need it it)
* Meet up with some old acquaintances
* Have a DVD/ food fest with Mango gurl and the peeps
* Spend some Qt time with my sweetie (plan upcoming trip?)

Hmmm... sounds like i have enough to keep me occupied for the next two days. kewl.

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I do feel bad though. I won't be able to attend my lolo's death anniversary on Sunday. :-( *Sigh*

Sometimes i wonder if this job is worth it --- i seem to missing out on some things and pretty important ones too. Right now i want to spend more time with Jason, who's leaving pretty soon, as well as my grandmother, who's going back to the States in April. Not only that, my mom is graduating from her two MAs and though i can be there for the event, i won't be there fro her birthday. I miss celebrating with her.

Ahh... so many changes happening all at once. I wonder what the next level would be for me?

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Pop culture and the age thing

Bits and pieces i've come to read and enjoy (thanks y'all!)

Psychicpants' interesting bird tales leaves me wanting more

Mangogurl is giving me the munchies with all that food talk.

Reading Jordan's musings and observations makes me wanna commute more.The Red Wine story, in particular, just made me wanna eat at Max's just for the people. heheh

Herbkin's freelancing has made me miss not having a 9-7 job.

ahh well.

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Got into a recent YM conversation with Lucee, and we got to discussing the whole age thing. She recently turned the big 2-5, so she was kinda lamenting how old she sounds. I mentioned to her the odd-even scheme which goes:

Odd number ages have a way of sounding older than they should, while even numbers make one, even someone so old, sound so young, or younger than they should be. For example, a person sounds so much older if he/she is 25/27/23, as opposed to someone who just turend 20/22/24 (the even numbers have a better ring to it, i think)

Perhaps it's all psychological, but we've noticed a weird quirk from people who react to that, like: Ay, 25 ka na!?! Talaga? (Really? You're already 25?) Tell them you're 24, and they will go "Aww, that's great!24! wow!" or something to that effect. hehehe.

Weird.

moi part deux

moi
Originally uploaded by bunnie_lette.

not that anybody has seen me recently, but during the trip back from Banaue, i lost my glasses (see pic)

See, these glasses are a pretty essential part of my being -- not only are they needed to see things clearly, but these frames are somewhat of a trademark for me. Ok, so they look catty and stuff, but to my sweetie, they are part of who i am.

When i lost them, i had to get a new pair, which turned out to be frames NOT like these. Sad, sad, sad. MY sweetie and I were both kinda disappointed that our local optometrist did not have the pair we wanted. *sigh* To my sweetie's dismay, i purchased a new pair, with different frames.

So anyway, this gave us both a somewhat awkward feel with the new frames --- i felt weird because i had to get used to it (i got a higher grade for these too) and my sweetie had to deal with me having a different set of lens. Made him feel like he was dating a totally different person, he says, which only heightened my dismay of not being able to wear my old glasses.

So, where does this post end up, you might ask? I'm getting to that (pardon the sidestories) My sweetie passed by the doctor's office last week and saw my --our-- glasses! He immediately got hold of the doctor to reserve it for us to pick up. My sweetie then surprised me by picking it up himself and giving it to me the other day... such a lovely surprise indeed! :-) Now we both feel like a new couple reunited after some time (hahaha)!

(insert sappy stuff here)

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Thanks again sweetie! :-) wuv u...

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pluggin'

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf launched their summer drinks today!

So far i've only tried their Berry'd Treasure, this concoction of berry juices and vanilla powder. It tastes a lot like strawberry ice cream. There's also the Malibu Dream, which is a combo of strawberry and banana.Hmm... The other ones are Blueberry pomegranate Ice and latte. The latte is pretty good, though the BP Ice takes some getting used to. I keep wondering what the hell a pomegranate is...

Anyway, if you're curious, or just sweltering from the heat, try one today. :-)

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Care for some Summer art fun? Check out the Raya School and get with the program! Starshuffler is teaching! :-)

Somehow...this reminds me of a Travis song.

window
Originally uploaded by coolmel.

Picturesque in your view
the colors ring rich and true
and though i may not show thee
the piquant red entices me

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*giddy* Oh well.

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Rants and Raves:

Congrats to my momma, who just got the highest score in her class for her MA finals. You go, Ma! :-D
WHOO-HOO!

I'd like say a prayer for all those who are lost and somewhat in denial of their failure as friends --- but do it some more and it will be YOU who will need a prayer...

In everything, there is Karma, which leads me to believe that everything will be "righted out" --- one way or the other.

UP Survey Shmurcey (thanks, Jovan!)

Got this from Starshuffler's recent post. Heheheh nakaka-miss bigla ang UP...


1. Ano'ng Student Number mo? 97-something *heheeh*
2. Nakapasa ka ba or waitlisted? Passed
3. Paano mo nalaman yung upcat results? Had my brotehr double-check and see if myname was there (he was in Manila already) after i got my snail mail acceptance letter.
4. First choice mo ba ang UP? All the way!
5. Alam mo ba UPG score mo? i wish i did...
6. Ano yung first choice mo na course? Bachelor of Fine Arts
7. Second choice? Mass Comm --- Journalism
8. Ano course mo ngayon? Graduated from VisComm
9. May plano ka mag shift? nope
10. chinito/chinita ka ba? nope (though most peple say i look like one)
11. Nakapag dorm ka na ba? yes, but only till 2nd year high school --- rented an apt with my bro for college
15. Naka Uno ka na ba? yep
16. 3? average grade i would get for a mediocre piece of work
17. Highest grade: 1
18. Lowest: Got a 5 for a project once :-( Then again, i think more than a half of teh class did, since the teacehr was pretty tough :-P
19. Worst experience sa UP: feeling the subtle discrimination from teachers because you came from CFA (weird, noh?)
20. Lagi ka bang pumapasok sa klase? yeah, generally.
21. Anong org mo? Tried to join a sorority, but deferred since it felt weird. Joined a photography org though.
22. May scholarship ka ba? uh, i would have if i took up a science course :-).
23. Ilang units na ang naipasa mo? i forgot, but enough to get me to graduate.
24. NANGANGARAP KA BA NA MAG-CUM LAUDE? Yes, much to my mother's disappointment, i wasn't able to (tanginang STS na yan!)
25. Kelan ka magtatapos? tapos na po...
26. Fave prof: Sir Mel Silvestre, Cesar Hernando, Ma'am Mitzy Reyes, Ma'am Joy Mina Ilagan. Sa Ibang clase, Si Sir Eli Guieb, Brenda Fajardo
27. Worst teacher: i seriously can't remember...
28. Fave subject: Materials class and Thesis (weird noh?)
29. Worst subject: STS. Super walang kwenta maliban sa bonding with group mates. <--- yup yup yup!
30. Fave landmark: hallways ng FA dati na painted pa ng iba-t ibang orgs (burado na ngayon).
31. Building: Bartlett Hall
32. Paboritong kainan: the batchoy place near FA, at tsaka kina Manong Fishball!
35. Lagi ka sa lib? sa FA libe lang, usually
36. Nakapag infirmary ka ba ng minsan kang nagkasakit? yes, for a doctor's appointment
37. May crush ka sa campus? dami...
38. BF/GF? hmmm...
39. May balak ka bang mag masters or phd? i wish i can finish my MA
40. Ano-ano naging PE mo? Swimming, Australian Games (hehehe), bowling at PE 1.
41. Kamusta naman yung block section nyo? Ok lang. Still keeping in touch with some people :-)
42. Nakapanood ka na ba ng graduation sa UP? college grad lang...
43. Memorize mo a ang Alma Mater Song? nope, nada.zilch.
44. Nakaperfect ka na ba ng exam? Oo. Sayang lang di ko tinandaan kung ano. Minsan lang 'yun eh.
45. Anong gusto mo sa UP? Character-building experience ang UP.<-- you said it!
45.Anong ayaw mo? Ayaw ko ng gulo at mga kups na teachers.plus, the equipment/facilities aren't enough.
46.Maganda ba ID pic mo? nope. i squint in mine.
47.May ginawa ka bang illegal sa campus? Uhm... baka meron na, hindi lang ako aware. Hahaha...

my apologies...

I'm sorry sweetie...

i wuv u!

weekend before the hooplah

Work has been hectic these days -- lotsa planning, lotsa projects and oh yeah, we open a new cafe in lessthan two weeks. Technically, our new outlet will open during Holy Week.

WTF!?!

The whole concept of Holy Week for a lot of Filipinos is sacred --- a time to regroup with the family, hence the almost manic struggle to book tickets and flights out of the city to go back to the province from which you came from; a time off work, which means people who are from the city head off somewhere OUTSIDE the metro; a time to purge one's self of anything but the death of our Lord, which is pretty much applicable to my grandparents' era and all those die-hard believers of the faith; for the rest of the country, it is two days' paid vacation of sleeping in and watching 7th Heaven episodes and/or Bible Story movies on T.V. (lucky for those who have cable, they have a better selection)

For me though, it looks like the beginning of the end. Sure, lots of responsibility means trust and all that. Unfortunately, that means not being able to go home to spend time with my family, as well as time to be stuck in the metro (which, btw, turns almost into a ghost town --- really weird)

Oh well. Might as well enjoy the ride. I am happy i'll be spending it with Jason, which is great. Also, since this will be time off the office, i can catch up with all those movies i missed in DVD format, not to mention sleep all day (cue Jason Mraz's song,please!)

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Met Jason, Melissa and Mitzy at the Ayala Museum earlier. They had to attend a short alumni homecoming of Fullbrighters in the country, which ended pretty early, so they decided to go to the museum. I was stuck in traffic on my way to a travel agency (i just needed to get something before meeting with them) so i was in a rush, had a bit of a problem breaking change for the cab too, all the while enduring the hot hot heat (summer na!!!).

MINI RANT: What is wrong with cab drivers these days?! Seriously, I had the worst time getting to Makati earlier because not only did we endure the heat, we had to experience it through traffic. I guess it's just my luck to get a cab that has no window tint... oh well. Anyway, for some reason, he did not have change. So it boiled down to a 5-minute staring cotest on who should give what. The fare was P160, but i only had 2 P100 bills and a P20 bill. In the end, he accepted the P120. The second ride i got (from the travel agency, which was a couple of blocks away from the museum) also gave me a cab driver who had no change. I was so steamed --- does he expect me to pay him a full P500 for a lousy P40 ride?!? In the end, i had him stop in front of a coffee shop, in which i had to buy something to break my bill. *sigh* At elast i got to buy Jason something sweet to eat :-P

Anyway, i was really grateful that they managed to wait up for late ol' me.They were with a couple of Filipino Fullbrighters, Gino and JV, who were just the sweetest people! :-) We checked out the latest exhibit (a collection of Filipino works bought by Singapore, among which was a work done by my former professor in Modern Art, Ma'am Brenda), the dioramas(a staple in the museum) and bought some interesting items at the museum shop. It was cool to check it out since JV wa sa teacher (he gave a pretty interesting tour of the dioramas) and Gino was a designer (he explained the Spanish clothing display, as well as the ornate religious items). We topped off the trip with lunch at Kitchen, which had some ample servings of great food and shabby chic interiors. It was a very nice way to spend a Saturday (sans the cab ride fiasco and hot hot heat --- oh yeah!)

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a little bit of inspiration

Milton Glaser speaks of graphic design. (omg, i am soo jealous of Melvin for having him as a teacher!!!)

Thanks for the link, Berger!

Adarna!

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It's amazing how the month seems to fly by...

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2046

"Love is a matter of timing... what good will it do if you met the right one too early or too late?" -2046


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My timing always sucks. Maybe this time i'm on time...

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waking up

i had the most horrible dream earlier. Of course, now that i try to recall it, i can't. But it was pretty bad, considering i woke up in tears and heaving. It was weird, considering i had a good night, as well as a good night's sleep. Maybe coffee and alcohol really don't mix.

Oh well.

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To recap the interesting night, i met Jason at the "usual place" (read: the gym) after work, where we stayed for two hours working out. Did i say working out? I meant using the machines while watching TV. hehehe

The perks of going to the gym is, mainly for me, the tv sets and dozen channels of cable Tv you can watch. I was so glued to watching a replay of Twister that i ended up being on the bike for more than a half hour. hehehhe. It was great though, i was burning calories while enjoying myself (of course, i was straining my neck..)

Nway, we managed to have a cup of joe ( Jason's ritual at the gym lounge) before heading off to The Meatshop for some beer and bbq (for them). Met up with Melissa, Mitzy, Dave, Dino and Hirosh who were already seated and waiting anxiously for the BBQ. It was pretty great, just chillin' having sum BBQ (Grilled squid for me --- rapsa!) and talkin'. Mary and Christel also stopped by, though Christel was there mainly for business --- we have a project together. Nway, it was pretty great that we were able to chill (I think we bought the place out with our more than a dozen beers, and almost 25 sticks of BBQ)

A short nightcap of coffee and cookies at CBTL Morato with Mary, Dino, Hirosh and Jason --- we met up with Lucy and Edel there , who were studying for finals (?) busily staring into their papers. It's great to see them again! The place was so crowded last night though, so we sat outside (patio). A little chat about places to go to, dentist appointments and some language issues, after which we called it a night. Kewl.

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There's nothing more calming than him saying "it's ok, baby, it's just a dream".

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endings and beginnings

Happy Birthday, Lolo!

Today is my lolo's birthday. I miss him. Tonight my family will celebrate his birthday at the eldest sister's house. I wish i can be there. I miss my lolo so much. He passed away last year, a few days after celebrating his birthday.

I love you lolo.

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I just read that Generationrice is finally closing its rad site (oh no!). I feel sad. After 5 years, it had a great run...

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Going over the site, i came across a poem i wrote for them during the time my lolo was in the hospital (he's a diabetic). Even now, i still become overcome with the emotions i felt when i was writing that -- it was a little too personal i guess.

I never really spent that much time with my lolo growing up since they were based in the US that time and would only be here for the holidays. Still, i always remember his advice on life, passed on constantly by mom to me:

+ read books
+ intelligence is your best asset --- beauty fades through time
+ simplicity in life is best --- money may give you material things, but if you're stupid, you're not worth anything

Or something to that effect. He usually says it in dialect (more to the point). I remember him always praising me or my cousins whenever we excel in our studies. His greatest happiness was to see a member of his family happy in what he/she does, manifested in the excellence/progress of his career/work.

He was always the soft-spoken yet candid guy i would happily show my grades too, always ready to tell me a story (usually war stories) or revel in the "love story" he and my lola had during the war. I love his smile and seeing tthe excitement in his eyes whenever he talks. I love the soulful gaze he gives my lola everytime he is with her, how he holds her hand like he will never let go.

I love how excited he gets when he plans to go to the beach, and how much more excited he gets once he is there. I love how he enjoys the beach, spending time talking with Tatay Mel, or just walking along the shore. I love how despite his misgivings and distractions, he shows my mom in small ways that he loves her, like holding her hand and hugging her whenever he spends time with us.

I miss my lolo...

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week starters

Had a small gathering with Ligaya and the IC peeps at the IC last night, along with the Fullbrighters. It's sweet, they gave her a semi-surprise party complete with songs, cake and lotsa food (yum!) Although i haven't been able to sopend that much time with her, it was great to hang out with her that one weekend at Zambales.

Right now i guess she's on her way to Cebu to say goodbye to her relatives before she heads back to The Netherlands. Anyway,Have a safe trip, Ligaya! :-)

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It's amazing how time flies.

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Change is so apparent these days... a good friend is moving on to a new chapter in his career, a friend recently left the country, and a couple more will be leaving by next month. Me? No plans yet, but i do hope my travelling plans will materialize soon...aside from that, my family is loving on to the next chapter in their lives too, as my mom begins to think about teaching after she graduates from her MA degrees (yup, she finishing two) and my brother is getting a great break in his work. My younger brother will be starting college soon too--- wow, has it really been that long?

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We will be celebrating my lolo's first death anniv by the third week of March (Holy week at that), so in a way this is a physical manifestation of my lola's transition progress. She has, from what i gather, been quite docile throughout the proceedings of the planning, though i feel that she may be feeling the loneliness too much. I miss my lolo. I can remember the numerous times i've seen them together, all those years, still strong despite problems and difficulties. It's not very hard to see how much they love each other. I wish i can find a love as strong as theirs, and as deep.

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Watching In Good Company last night. Quite a good movie, not at all what i expected. It gave me some things to think about too. It gives you quirks of advertising, marketing and ultimately, the doubts and questions of what makes life meaningful. Topher Grace said in In Good Company, "i want my life to mean to me as your life means to you. I want my life to mean something". It's funny that in our search for meaning in life we muck it up with a lot of expectationss, and vague wants and objectives. Oftentimes we do not know what we want (as you get older (or more mature? haha) you tend to look into more things which give you more questions rather than answers). In the end, you want something simple, straightforward.

So what do i want? I do not know yet. I can definitely identify myself with Topher's character (like him, i feel my life may peak at 25 and go downhill from there). But yup, i do want my life to mean something. Now if i can only figure out what that something may be... :-P

+ + +

Travelling

I am bitten by the wanderlust bug. I would LOVE to just get out right now and head off to some place i haven't been in a long time (beach, anyone?) Unfortunately, funds have made my dream somewhat unreachable for now... So, to assuage my lust for the road, i have taken to looking over my pics of recent trips, remembering the fun times. :-)

+ + +

BANAUE INFO

For the folks who inquired about the Banaue trip, you can get your tickets (direct to Banaue) at Autobus, in Sampaloc, Manila (near UST). Trip to Banaue leaves at 10pm. Best to get the tickets 5 hours before (they don't do reservations). You can contact our tour guide/driver, West, through 0919.448.89.36. Best to plan the trip with him once you meet up, to make use of your afternoon before you head out somewhere (it's also good to get his opinion on where to go, and which inns to stay at). When in Batad, check out Rita's Inn for their great food.The Hillside Inn was a great place to stay inn, cos they offer a better view for P100 --- get the basement rooms!

+ + +

My friend, Junie, is here for a week with her mom who's visiting. Yehey! I finally get to see her again! :-) It's been so long and i have not been able to see her every time i am at the province (she works and studies Nursing in her free time). *sigh* I miss her a lot! :-) I can't wait to hang out with her!

thankful

Pessimism is toxic.

After getting so darned frustrated over things, i have decided to just work with what's workable, and just be happy (even if it kills me).

Last night, for example. I was jarred into reality without any warning, and i had to really take the time to digest the fact that, yes, it is already March... so many things are changing, and everything is going by so fast that i can't help but feel sad. That realization made my eyes blurry and as i took that in, i tried so hard not not feel bad, bottling up what i was feeling inside me.

Not only that, on our way to dinner we had the worst encounter with taxi drivers. It's amazing how much of an asshole a driver can be without meaning to (or perhaps they did mean to be such --- it is rush hour). I mean, negotiating with a driver is bad enough (how far is greenhills from ortigas center, really!?) but to drive away without saying anything while you're talking to him is just too much. ARGH! These people complain a lot about unfairness and all that crap they get from the gov't., the people, etc., but they can't even extend the smallest courtesy of properly negotiating (like that is even proper --duh)

Anyway, after that, my frustration just grew and grew until i was talking trash and stomping around. Meanwhile, Jason was patiently watching and going along with me, squeezing my hand until he finally stopped me as i was ranting and hugged me. Hard. He smelled my hair and kissed me and said, "it'll be ok, baby".

I looked at him and realized that yeah, it will be. For some reason, seeing him there just stopped me. It made me think of the mess i got myself in, getting myself all worked up for some stupid reason. So i let it go. I looked into his eyes and just thought of how great it felt to be with him, just be with him. The thought of having him beside me there, made my frustrations melt away. I immediately felt better.

+ + +

So i have decided to try to just be thankful nowadays. No matter how many small things irk me, i will try to not let to get to me. After all, everything's changing, moving so fast that i can't let any time get wasted by getting all pissed off. (I just hope i can sustain this positive energy).

+ + +

5 things i am happy about:
+ my sweetie getting in to Northwestern!
+ my mom graduating from her MAs this April!
+ my brother's success in his latest project at work! :-)
+ having great friends!
+ an upcoming trip!

+ + +

Watching

Recently watched The Woodsman, this drama featuring Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick --- pretty good and heart-wrenching. It's a story about a newly-released sex offender (read: Child sex offender) re-adjusting to society and battling his inner demons (read: not molest some kid again).

Pretty serious and "real" in every sense of the word, as the movie doesn't go all the way biased about the issue, rather gives the character depth by giving all sides and reactions of people around him. It's a quick one too (an hour and a half), filled with interesting camera shots and well, some interesting editing. :-)

+ + +

On a lighter (though a bit morose tone) note, i also got to watch Finding Neverland. It's about James Barrie's relationship with his muses for Peter Pan --- a family of boys and a widow (played by Kate Winslet). With them, he gets to play pirates and indians, walk the plank and dance with fairies.

Sadly, i never got to see the ending since the disc was scratched (aww!) but it did make me wanna bawl my eyes out in some parts --- that Johnny Depp is one amazing actor (not to mention darn sexy --- at 40 at that! Raawrr!)

Note to self: MUST finish the movie!

+ + +

I am not much into doing anything these days. The weather is so hot (yup, i surrender to the heat) i can barely manage to get out of the office (ironic, since i feel like i wanna kill myself sometimes when i'm inside --- it sucks looking at progress bars). *sigh* I am constantly thirsty, tired from all the mental activity from work and strangely lethargic from the heat. Argh.

Like today. After doing chores and going about much needed household work, i took a break and took a "nap" --- which was about 4 hours. Blame it on the heat, hormones, the afternoon, whatever. I was just soo tired! *sigh* I was all ready to do a lot of things, like go to the gym, have dinner somewhere, watch a movie with Jason --- but poof! all that was done and over with when i closed my eyes.

I feel like i am watching my life slip away before my very eyes.

*sigh*

....yeah, sana

Press to stop
Originally uploaded by Helephant.

Let me stop whatever this is taht is making my head feel like it's about to explode.
Mahirap pahintuin ang gulo ng utak mo, lalo na ang pag-iisip ng mga bagay na nakakadulot lang ng sakit ng ulo!

Unfortunately...

A Series of Unfortunate Events was, for me, a bit disappointing.

The aura of this movie was quite romantic, making you feel like you were in another world, another time, and the wasy the characters were dolled up made it all the more too real. Alas, with modern quips and somewhat bizaare anecdotes, i can't help but feel miffed --- why was it so? Even the jarring breaks between narrations brought about by the typewriter's inability to function well was part of the book (interesting, but jarring nonetheless). It was nice that they were true to the book even to that extent, but i wish that their dialogue would have been more true to the characters.

It's not that Jim Carrey wasn't amusing. He was, after all, THE Count Olaf. He looked the part, he spoke the part, he breathed the part. Alas, his over-the-top performance was quite a little too much Carrey that i didn't quite buy it. Plus, the contemporary jokes and references he made were quite disconcerting. I guess that for me was the flaw of the movie.

Considering it was a compression of three books, i'd say they had a good story there, although there were some scenes i wish they didn't have to elaborate with so much. I did however, enjoy how they weaved together bits and pieces of the three books, altogether making a comedic deluge of zany characters, interesting"misfortunes" and fun sets. Yup, the elaborate sets, costumes and yes, lovable Baudelaire kids (love Violet's gowns and coat!) made my watching a lot more fun.

I only read the first book but i managed to read some pages from his succeeding ones -- all depressingly sad. But that's the thing that drew me to watching the movie. Can a book so depressing, so morose and so negative in its theme, be transitioned into film ? The somewhat positive note the ending comes to makes me think twice about the movie -- after all, isn't the essence of Lemony Snicket's book about negativity and a not-so-happy ending? In the end of every book, there is an "ending" but not a "happy" one, always a start of the next misfortunte. I wish that this adaptation could have ended in a similar fashion, a bit uneasy and unresolved,leaving everybody wondering if there will be a sequel (more fun, don't you think?)

Now that would have been cool. :-)

kudos to the new month!

Some interesting news, newfound rants and happy tidings found me this weekend!

First off, i just found out my mom passed both her compre exams for her Masters in both Public Admin and Accounting (yey, mom!) I am sooo happy and so very proud that despite all her workload at home and at work, she finished top of her class!

A very good friend of mine just informed me that she and her significant other will be finally tying the knot --- that is fabulous news! :-) everybody loves a wedding, especially a wedding between two people obviously in love ... tee-hee!

+ + +

People can sometimes be so darn annoying! >:-P

+ + +

I am looking forward to change... very soon!

+ + +

I love my sweetie for being such a sweetheart --- thanks for the salad, baby! :-) i love you...

pre-EDSA

I keep wondering about tomorrow's celeb at the EDSA shrine --- since the bombings last V-day, i am apprehensive on what can happen during the said celebration. I just hope that this will be a peaceful and organized event, and not something which will start off a new riot, or worse, dictatorship.

Been feeling the political vibe these days. I can't help but get pissed off by the fact that most people will resort to rallying, degrading the system by which we live in and not even offer solutions. They yammer about how bad it is, how the president and other officials should be taken down from theri positions, etc., but that's it. They never offer any solutions.

It's the innate quality that we Filipinos seem to have. We always criticize negatively, never constructively. I'd like to hear some disgruntled citizen or rallyist say something bad about the government and offer a more feasible means than ddemanding the president to step down. Step down and then what? Who will you replace her with? What will you do if you were in the President's place? What other alternatives can you come up with?

In every government, there is some form of corruption. But we cannot get it out completely. There will always be people who can be bought or use power for their own benefit, no matter who we put into power. So my question is, if this goverment is so corrupt, what then can we do to change it? Mind you, I have my own qualms against the current government, but i'd rather think of solutions than just talk and complain. I want concrete answers, from both the government and those who oppose it --- violence will not change anything; rather it will cripple the economy and the country even more.

*sigh* I get tired and weary trying to understand this country and its people. I love being a Filipina. It's our unique ability to be compassionate yet determined, to be able to smile amidst problems that makes me proud to be one. But for people who want change, we sure take a long time to bitch about things before actually doing anything.

+ + +

Banaue!!

couple's pic!
Originally uploaded by bunnie_lette.

Yup, this is why i wasn't able to blog this weekend.
Had some QT trekking, checking out some fab terraces and yep, just chillin'. This was on-the-fly weekend trippin' and let me assure you, i was really paranoid on what would happen to us before the weekend was up. Turns out, it was a most invigorating experience as we toured the famous 8th wonder, as well as got to learn mor eabout The Philippines and yes, interact with fellow trekkers.

For those who wanna go, a weekend getaway to Banaue is a mere (?) 8-hour ride from Manila (Autobus goes there direct, 10pm on the dot everyday of the week, but be sure to get tickets at least 5 hours before). Once you're there, it'll be good to have a guide or a ready driver.

Best way is to bargain and plan with your guide/driver the spots you wanna got o and then set a price for everything. We befriended a nice driver/guide who gave us some choice spots to visit, not to mention a pretty good price -- he was even ready with a cellfone number so we can get in touch with him if we get lost, or need some info!

We decided to check out the viewpoints then spend most of the day trekking to this quaint village of Batad, roughly 3 hours away from Banaue's town proper. It was an hour's trike ride then off to about 2 more hours' worth of trekking over a couple of mountains. I was NOT at all prepared for the hiking (extreme at that!) but wonder of wonders, we managed to arrive there safe and sound (and kinda out of breath). Of course, the amazing view and serene atmosphere more than made up for it.

We stayed in this cozy inn whose rooms opened to the breathtaking view of the ampitheatre-like terraces of Batad. Like us, many tourists (foreigners mostly) loved the view and trekked all over the place.

We had great food at Rita's this nearby inn which served great omelettes and chappati, as well as filling dinners.

It's great to leisurely lounge around the area (too bad we only had a weekend) so if you're spending more time there, be sure to check out the waterfalls (45 mins trek through the rice fields) as well as make like an Ifugao and interact in the village.

Since going back to the town proper was quite a feat (the jeepneys only go there on certain times) you can definitely plan the return ride back with your guide/driver. we were able to set a time when West (our driver) was to pick us up at the junction, so we were able to walk down from the saddle more slowly this time.

The bus ride's a bitch, since the ride back to Manila is at 5pm (better reserve for seats when you arrive at the terminal -- it gets full really quickly) and the stops aren't that nice. But what really gets to you is the amazement of the entire trip --- the sights, the food, the people --- it's really worth the biyahe!

my "drama" moment

my "drama" moment
Originally uploaded by bunnie_lette.

early in the a.m. in Batad, Banaue. Apparently i am cold and susceptible to Jason's art directions. hehe.

smile!

smile!
Originally uploaded by bunnie_lette.

o di ba cute? :-)

Sideways

Watched Sideways last night, this wry comedy about wine, friendship and relationships. The verdict? Slightly happier than About Schmidt, though a lot of the story had to do with things and places i've never been to (California, wine-tasting and yup, more american jokes).

I'm a fan of Election and About Schmidt, but i guess this movie takes some getting used to. I guess the more general theme of friendships, loneliness and change is more subtle in this movie since a lot of jokes, references and even places aren't as widely-known as i hoped. Still, it was enjoyable movie, with a very interesting cast (Virginia Madsen and Paul Giamatti are really great!) and a great subject (wines, wines, and more wines!) Makes a "novice" drinker like me want to learn more about Pinot wines... :-D

+ + +

Wat's next? Constantine is also showing so we may schedule that pretty soon... granted, Keanu Reeves is not exactly my ideal actor for the main character, but i guess (i hope) the special effects will more than make up for it :-P

All's in the Fair...

(*i'm taking a break from my super-hectic sked of work!!!)

Ok, last night was my first night at the 2005 UP Fair. It's a week-long annual smorgasboard of music,bands,food and what-have-yous sponsored by different orgs/groups every night, lasting till the wee hours of the day, or till the people get sick of it and leave (whichever comes first).

As expected, there was the fair, and there was THE Fair --- what do i mean? The fair has a fee to get in, leaving those who are decidely cheap or non-intersted to do anything except listen to the music to just mill about the area around the fair and just set up camp. Not that it's not interesting: for a couple of years, my then-bf was too cheap (or just too corny) to go in and experience the fair, so we'd end up listening to the music by the rim of the sunken garden. The place is packed with the stereoypical jologs, cheapie food stalls (i think they have better isaw and squid balls) and interesting folks.

THE fair (once you get in) is a slightly more expensive array of food, people and rides, plus you can hear AND see the performer of the night. (i'm a closet groupie, so i much rather see the band than listen to them, hehe) Jason and i proceeded to the area around 10ish, hoping to catch the prime bands of the night: P.O.T and Rivermaya.

So, for this night, we opted to do the whole shebang: tickets at the door (we missed the free iced tea), stamps on our arms and did a quick run-around of what the fair had to offer. Jason wished he didn't eat dinner, there was a LOT of food!! We decided to go on a mission to find the best barbeque in the area.

A little bit of games (darts and duck shooting, anyone?), some time on the rickety thing they called a ride (it was exhilarating, though a bit sketchy) with the IC peeps and listening to Rico Blanco belt out some old classics (shyet, i feel so old!) made the night quite fun and memorable. We even got prizes for our shooting efforts! (yehey! lollipop!)

So do we dare go back? maybe on thursday or Friday... :-) As for now i'm opting for some movie watching... :-D

+ + +

music miser and the fantastic dinner

So, here i am, bored to death at work and yes, trying to procrastinate as usual. (hehe) Between projects and taking insanely shitty phone calls from people i don't know (yet who have the guts to tell me what to do), i have dedcided to take a 5-minute hiatus and answer a couple of questions i got from Starshuffler's post.

1. What is the total amount of music files on your computer?
* uhh... i think right now it adds up to 5GB (more or less, including mp3s in my i-pod mini)

2. The CD you last bought is?
* P.O.T. remastered. Sige na people, let's get on down!

3. What is the song you last listened to before reading this message?
* The Decemberists' Apology Song.

4. Write down 5 songs you often listen to or that mean a lot to you.
* Before you proceed reading this, please bear in mind it's the month of hearts and... i am such a sappy person. :-P
Miss Misery - Elliot Smith
The Luckiest - Ben Folds Five
To The End - Blur (i love their video!)
Angel won't you call me? - The Decemberists
* any Eraserheads song, circa 1st -3rd album

+ + +

Chataeu 1213 rocks! :-D *feelin' giddy* Thank you for making my V-day so memorable...

+ + +

Anti-Valentine's gone bad

I've heard of people being vehement during Valentine's Day, but this is just bullshit.

related stories here

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Can somebody PLEASE explain to me why this has to happen? Should violence be the friggin' answer to everything? What happens now? For all thos e responsible, you shoudl be ashamed of yourselves! You try to envision a world of peace and yet you go about things the way others do --- with violence, with killing , with injuries. Putting people in jeopardy is, let me put it mildly, PURE CRAP. PUTANGINA!

+ + +

On lighter news, i heard that Psychicpants had his own win a date promo in UP... wonder how that went? Hmmm...

+ + +

V-day raves and rants

Pre-Hearts' rant:

A complete stranger criticized my outfit yesterday.

I was standing on line in a convenience store, wearing, mind you, a very standard and not at all vulgar outfit: a long skirt (which covered me up to me toes), a gray shirt and a blue sweater over it. Granted, it's not the best outfit i have, but hell, it's Sunday! Anyway, this woman with a kid in tow goes up to me and says, ever so politely with a smile:

"Ang sagwa naman! takpan mo nga yan!" (How vulgar! Cover yourself up!)

WTF!?! I blankly stared at her as she moved along, all the time looking back at me and tsk-tsking like crazy, repeating what she said almost inaudibly. I looked at myself, seeing if i was showing a boob, a bare leg, or what. Nothing. I was really shocked. What THE Fuck!?!

I got really pissed. First of all, i wasn't wearing anything indecent. For another, Who the friggin' hell was she to say something like that to a complete stranger!? I left the convenience store with growing resentment to her, a complete stranger. I fumed inside and told my sweetie after we met. He was completely baffled as i was.

We tried to analyze what happened --- maybe she was an inner fashion critic, who was starting out (therefore preying on strangers, like me); maybe she was having issues with her husband (she must have lost him to a younger girl); maybe she wanted the sweater (or skirt, or shirt) for herself and the only way she could console herself was to look for people who have it and criticize them like crazy; maybe she's just plain crazy.

Sheesh.

Yup, ladies and gents, there ARE people who can be bitches and assholes for no apparent reason.

+ + +

Anyway...


Happy Hearts' Day!!!

+ + +

Things that make my V-day:

* getting flowers from the most wonderful guy :-)
* having morning breakfast with someone you love (and actually getting to work on time, too! heheh)
* listening to sickeningly sweet mushy love songs over the radio (it's tolerable since it's V-day)
* texting and receiving messages from family and friends

+ + +

what i learned over the weekend...

... i learned that commuting to Malabon takes ingenuity, a very good map and a couple of phone calls to friends who catually live there.

... i learned that my boss has no idea what a weekend is.

... i learned that planning and doing saturday night activities can be as different as night and day.

... i learned that no matter how much i say things are different, they alway end up the same way as before.

... i learned that a lot of margaritas, a mini-"lap dance" and four girls are a great recipe for a girls night out.

... i learned that friendship pushes through despite busy schedules, hectic lifestyles and prior engagements when it really comes down to the nitty-gritty.

... i learned that loving somebody is the world's most effective remedy to the wounds of everyday crap.

... i learned that people can be quite annoying, no matter how much you try to not let them get to you.

+ + +

alin, alin, alin ang naiba?

tabasco shots
Originally uploaded by coolmel.

coolmel's cameraphone rocks! :-) thsi reminds me of Batibot.... heheheh

Friday i'm in Love... (yiheee!)

It's the weekend!!! Yehey! Time to just hang... yun lang pow.

+ + +

My friend Tanya's baby is a girl! kewl!! congrats, mama mia!

+ + +

Kudos to my friend Pao whose book Jolography earned the 2005 UP CHancellor's Award for Outsatnding Literary Work. Asteeg!!!

+ + +

Finally got to meet Mitzy's Dave last night --- after the exhibit (fabulous! I am sooo happy that i was able to catch it --- Please see side bar for exhbit details) and dinner at Teriyaki Boy, we headed off to the Airport. Twas pretty kewl to meet him, and hear about his trip to Japan and Vancouver. Mitzy looks really happy to see him again (awww! heheh)

+ + +

Pre-Valentine raves/rants:

- i love the fact that flowers are everywhere (and i mean EVERYWHERE)
- mushy love songs are the rage (and there's nothing you can do about it!)
- the couples are harassed into buying stuff for their significant other

+ + +

I wish i can live in Japan in the early part of the year. My friend Hirosh tells me of their interesting tradition for Valentines: On Feb. 14, the girls give the the guys a gift, be it chocoaltes or flowers. Then, on March 14, the guys will give the girl a gift that is THREE TIMES THE VALUE of what they gave to the guys. Hehehe. Talk about investing! You can totally take advantage of it by sending out gifts to say, 10 guys on Feb 14. and getting back 3x your investment in ten ways. hehhhe.

To be a book...

Oscar Wilde: The Portrait of Dorian Gray. You are a
horror novel from the world of dandies, rich
pretty boys, art and aesthetics, and
intellectual debates between ethical people and
decadent pleasure-seekers. You value beauty and
pleasure but realize their dangers, as well.


Which literature classic are you?
brought to you by Quizilla


* I have yet to read this book. Hmmm... an addition to my reading list! :-)

rainy days and thursdays always get me down

ok, so it's my version of the Carpenters' classic. Today was more of a drizzly day, since the rains i expected did not happen (thank God!) > But nonetheless, everybody seems to be in a sad mood.

YM-ed with Anton, my friend from college who has musings of life, love and the depressing state of relationships very similar to mine (yup, everybody's going away, dude!!!) I feel bad for him...his girlfriend is leaving for another country to study and will be away for two years. We talked about how much has changed for the both of us (before we were each other's proxy dates) and somehow manage to be in the same circumstances. :-P Even from his words i can sense a deep emotion of depression, one that echoes my repressed feelings (of having someone in your life leaving you sooner than you think).

I have my moments of complete and utter desolation, mind you; perhaps today was his.

+ + +

Another friend shared her state of emotional turmoil over YM while another poured her heart over the telephone line. I wish i can do something to alleviate my friends' states, but i am also troubled myself. Hidden underneath this smiling face is a girl who knows she will experience the anguish of broken hearts very soon and is scared shitless of what to do next. *sigh* Some Valentine's this is gonna be.

+ + +

Ok, ok. Enough negativity! I promised myself before to not think of the negative, only allow positive energy to radiate and engulf my being. I am thankful for many reasons, and happy that despite all the worries that i have :

- i am healthy, and working ( my family and friends are, too).
- i am spending time with a wonderful guy who is smart, sweet and very understanding
(i love you sweetie!)
- there are people in the world who are still hopeful, and are making a difference in many ways.
- i have fabulous friends, who inspite of everything that makes each one very busy, manage to meet up,
hang out and be there in time of need!

+ + +

Listening to Ben Folds Five's "The Luckiest" makes me realize that amidst all these worries, i have something to smile about.

midweek happee

Happy Chinese New Year!

+ + +

Lest we forget, it's Ash Wednesday today. I've been meaning to go to Church (gasp! is that me!?) but unfortunately, work beckoned. *sigh*.

+ + +

Happy joy-joy! Took a breezy 15-minute cab ride to work today through the new Katipunan-Santolan route, now beautifully traffic-free due to the renovations (after what seemed like 10 years..) Yey! I can finally go to Eastwood/Makati/South and not worry about the routes going there. *dances around*

+ + +

I am thrilled and somewhat rejuvenated by the workshop i got to attend yesterday at the Lopez Museum. Granted, it was short, but the actiivity was quite a jolt into my system. I was joined by my sweetie and Haydee for this afternoon of sketches,visual imagery and creative feeding --- our artist/guide toured us around, poring over the sketches and studies of known masters Hidalgo, Manansala and Luna while feeding us extensive musings, critques and intersting anecdotes. After that, we got to do our own sketches in an hour and a half. Jason got to draw his first hand --- i was quite impressed, and very proud! (syempre!) We got to do portraits (i did terribly) and landscapes, which was fun. Haydee also did quite beautifully, and i was really glad to spend some time with her again (i miss you girl!)

+ + +

Gnocchi fever has hit us and Jason is pursuing his dream of making gnocchi at home. hehhe.

Reading List

Got sidetracked from reading Ha Jin's The Crazed for the past couple of days. It's not that his book isn't a great read (it is), it's my lack of schedule, time management and yes, other reading material that keeps me from finishing the book.

+ + +

In fact, i just finished reading A girl's guide to hunting and fishing, this wacky, poignant and very funny read from Melissa Banks. My friend Manila gave me this to swap with my Candace Bushnell book last Sunday and after two days, i'm done. (It's that good) Call it Bridget Jones' without too much hype, or self-depreciation. The gal, Jane, is spunky, idealistic and very much experiencing what every woman may have experience at one time or another in her life. I love Banks' easy language, her characters' zany personality and the intimate (and not-so-intimate) relationships she has with her family, friends, and the men in her life.

+ + +

I'm overdue for a side project. Inside the office, i feel my brain is drained of its juice, and i am having the worst creative block in a long time. Argh. *ssheesh*.

In my quest for some knowledge and creative push, i've been going back and forth the aisles of the bookstores, poring over a dozen magazines just to get my brain to work.
I've signed up for a guided tour/creative activity this afternoon at the Lopez Museum ,hoping against hope that this will be the kick i've been looking for.

+ + +

I think i want to sedate myself from thinking waaaay too much about things.

I'll Be There for You....

You Know You're Addicted to Friends When...

You named your cats Chandler and Phoebe You have had dreams where you're the seventh Friend. You *seriously* consider naming your future daughter Emma. You can tell within 10 seconds of the beginning of the episodes exactly which one it is - and you can instantly remember what will happen. You can't go one day without a Friends reference. You are forever writing scripts for a Friends movie and sending them in (even if you have received several thousand rejection letters) Your favourite words are - Doi, Yuh-hu and Nu-uh You only ever buy magazines because they have something to do with FRIENDS in them You get your hair cut like Jennifer Aniston's (even if it looks terrible on you) You are able to perfectly re-enact every episode line-by-line You are always refering to real life incidents as 'The One With......' You have made a soundtrack out of all of Phoebe's songs and you listen to it all day long You've taped every episode of FRIENDS since the very first one, and watch the tapes continually You refuse to drink any beverage (especially coffee/tea) if it isn't served in one of the cups like the ones they have at Central Perk You actually get these jokes and pass them on to other friends who are addicted to Friends.

Get Your Own Addicted Meme Here



More cool things for your blog at
Blogthings

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For the past couple of nights we've been revisiting the 10 year strecth of Friends, courtesy of my friend's dvd collection. I must say, numbers #3, #4, #9 and #10 apply to me. (Ack! must have a better social life!!!) hehhehe.

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Weekend what-have-yous

The weekend has been one long feast.

Friday saw us having dinner at our now-favourite resto Bellini's (again!) with the Fullbright peeps as well as the IC crew, where we had a taste of the best italian food in the metro (Bellini's is located at The Markina Shoe Expo in Cubao, Q.C.) Topped the dinner off with some of their fabulous gelato (tiramisu rocks!) then headed out to Big Sky Mind to listen to some excellent Pinoy music courtesy of Itchyworms, Pedicab and some more bands (i forgot, but there was around 4 bands that night). Got to hang with the jap boys (Hirosh and Ryu) as well as have some QT with my sweetie :-D

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Attended my first INC wedding last Sat with my sweetie. Ok, i'm really not that familiar with the ceremony since it is my first time, but i was impressed by their choir and proceedings. The ceremony was short, but it was pretty strict. Guys on the left, girls on the right, regardless which friend are you (bride's or groom's) I kinda felt bad we weren't able to sit together since he didn't know anybody there. The reception was pretty cool though. Held at the Filipinas Heritage Library, it was both romantic and at the same time groovy! :-D The grrom's band from Baguio played, giving us reggae renditions of Sinatra, 311 and some other groovy sounds. Of course, the bride was radiant in her fab hair, lovely gown and yes, tear-filled yes. :-) Congrats Em! :-D

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Sunday got us into the "workout" mode, where we hung out at the gym for a pre-brunch exercise. I miss the gym. After having that bout of sickeness the past week, i finally got to muster enough strength to go there! Hahaha. Then again, i must have procrastinated long enough... we ate at ---where else?--- Bellini's for lunch (the head waiter already know us!) and had the sunday semi-ritual of grocery shopping at Shopwise afterwards.

Dinner at Dre's with Manila and the crew --- started late, but we managed to consume enough food to feed a small village. Andre made pasta, Jason and I brought potato salad and Manila and Anton provided fruit salad for dessert. Jordan and Jo supplied us some lovely fruit cake (made by their mom) and some ice cream --- a lovely combination! :-) I will never eat fruit cake the same way again! :-D

It was great to just chill and hang out with friends -- a lovely way to top off a hectic week! :-)

instantnews

My sweetie's gonna rule the world, one inn at a time!

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this site is cool!

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this blog's composition is really beautiful.

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creepy.

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cutie!

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The weekend's here and i'm stumped on a design i shoulld have finished days ago. *sigh* I hate designer's block. This sucks big time. Can i allow myself some solitude with some books??? WAAAAH!!! I miss losing myself in a room full of books, all those pages ready to be read and ideas ready to be released! (ok, i'm stopping now. sheesh.)

I am waaay past my deadline for this. Ugh.

I am spamming the world with this!

I want to thank all of you who have taken the time and trouble to send me your darn chain letters over the
past year. Thank you for making me feel safe, secure, blessed, and wealthy.

Because of your concern...

I no longer can drink Coca Cola because it can remove toilet stains.

I no longer drink Pepsi or Dr Pepper since the people who make these products are atheists who refuse to put "Under God" on their cans.

I no longer drink anything out of a can because I will get sick from the rat feces and urine.

I no longer use Saran wrap in the microwave because it causes cancer.

I no longer check the coin return on pay phones because I could be pricked with a needle infected with AIDS.

I no longer use cancer-causing deodorants even though I smell like a water buffalo on a hot day.

I no longer go to shopping malls because someone will drug me with a perfume sample and rob me.

I no longer receive packages from UPS or FedEx since they are actually Al Qaeda in disguise.

I no longer shop at Target since they are French and don't support our American troops.

I no longer answer the phone because someone will ask me to dial a stupid number for which I will get the phone bill from hell with calls to Jamaica , Uganda, Singapore , and Uzbekistan .

I no longer eat pre-packaged foods because the estrogens they contain will turn me gay.

I no longer eat KFC because their chickens are actually horrible mutant freaks with no eyes or feathers.

I no longer date the opposite sex because they will take my kidneys and leave me taking a nap in a bathtub full of ice.

I no longer have any sneakers -- but that will change once I receive my free replacement pair from Nike.

I no longer buy expensive cookies from Neiman Marcus since I now have their recipe.

I no longer worry about my soul because I have 363,214 angels looking out for me and St Theresa's novena has
granted my every wish.

Thanks to you, I have learned that God only answers my prayers if I forward an email to seven of my friends
and make a wish within five minutes. (Jeeze, the BIBLE did not mention it works that way!)

I no longer have any savings because I gave it to a sick girl who is about to die in the hospital (for the
1,387,258th time).

I no longer have any money at all, but that will change once I receive the $15,000 that Microsoft and
AOL are sending me for participating in their special e-mail program.

Yes, I want to thank all of you soooooooo much for looking out for me!

I will now return the favor. If you don't send this e-mail to at least 1200 people in the next 60 seconds,
a large bird with diarrhea will crap on your head at 5:00 pm this afternoon and the fleas of a thousand
camels will infest your armpits.

I know this will occur because it actually happened to a friend of a friend of a friend's neighbor's cousin
twice removed.

daily grind

Things are definitely looking up.

Had a cuppa joe before heading to work with my sweetie -- a semi-ritual we try to do before doing the daily routine of work -- and got to hang and hold hands with him a bit (haha, mushy!!! PDA! eeeooow!)

Today i felt a little better -- i'm still having those coughs and colds, but i'm fine! Why? It's Thursday!!! Yehey! My workload looks a little bit lighter (though it's still early) and i'm scheduled for a jean shopping experience later with my sweetie at -- where else? -- Sta. Lucia Mall!

Yup, we have become avid LRT2 fans since we took our first ride there, and yes, Sta. Lucia is a destination he has come to love because A) It's near Uratex, the foam factory we love (the famed bed --- read a few blogs back), and B) Fitness First has opened its branch there (easier to go to than ABS or GH from Katipunan). Actually, he just needs to return the jeans he bought yesterday 'cos it's too baggy. hehehe. No matter. We will go jean shopping later! Yey!

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Yesterday we had our "mushy" dinner nights in Cubao. I took him to Bellini's, this somewhat quaint italian resto in the heart of Marikina Shoe Expo, Cubao. Going there, you would really think twice about heading on to the resto since the place is so--- let's just say retro 70's. Ever since the insurgence of makati-esque architecture in Cubao, the areas of the MSE has been well, kinda creepy to go to because of its dim lights and somewhat ill-reputed scenario. But hey, this is Bellini's we're talking about! I have fallen in love with its spectacular food and very ambiance-fille area since i steped into the place and tonight was no exception.

He loved it. No question about it. The food -- thin crust pizza with tuna, artichokes, olives and arugula, and risotto with mixed seafoods -- was unquestionably amazing. (Yes, i am a food lover! i can go on and on and on...heheh) We vowed to go back here very soon! Best italian he ever had since coming here, he mentioned. :-) Yey!

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To top off our dinner, we headed out to Big Sky Mind for some drinks and music. Sadly, we arrived to silence (bands were playing on a friday, much to our dismay) and an exhibit from some artists. I'm no critic, but i didn't really feel what they exhibited much. *sigh* Sadly, it reminded us of a high school art project gone awry. Oh well. We did however, got to hang and chill out to some fab 90's music which took us down memory lane (i canNOT believe most of this is now part of MTV Classics!!!). heheh. After a while, we just headed back home to check out 711 and watch vcds.

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Today is the 60th Anniversary of the Battle of Manila! Happy Liberation day! (Kinda makes the whole Corregidor trip timely, huh?) :-)

gigs and more blahs....

Death Cab Cutie has generously linked me up these gigs, among which are on my prio list:

Feb.10- Brave New Waves @ Saguijo Cafe, Guijo St., Makati, 9pm
Orange n Lemons
Popular Days
Sleepyheads
The Pin-Up Girls

Feb.26- 9th Annual Benefit Concert for Dumagat of Dupinga Watershed @ 70's Bistro, Anonas, QC, 7pm
Joey Ayala
Bayang Barrios
Carol Bello of Pinikpikan
Cambio
Imago
Jeepney Joyride
Ciudad
Orange and Lemons
Narda
Romeo Lee and the Brown Briefs
Sunflower Day Camp
Shuffle Union
Reefer
Steadymovinbeat
(Entrance at P150 with free drink )

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Link-hopping has led me to check out some pretty awesome sites for Filipino indie music and the like--- worthy of your surfing time and listening ears --- like this and has gotten me semi-transfixed reading film slob's blog. Hmmm. music and film? awwwryt! :-)

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tourists

tourists
Originally uploaded by bunnie_lette.

can we be any more cheesy? :-P

lette_at_corregidor

lette_at_corregidor
Originally uploaded by bunnie_lette.

Taken in Battery Way, this photo creepily reminds me of long-forgotten war shrines. The place used to be an ammo room.

dreams

I was, for some reason, at Jollibee, ordering fries. The girl at the counter wouldn't give me any, and wouldn't budge from her counter no matter how many times i asked her. Then i told her i had the last stone of whatever charm it was for fairies. She then had a shocked, almost scared look in her eyes and ran away from me.

I had no idea how this transition came about. So there i was, with that charm from the previous dream, and some guy tells me that it was supposed to be a special stone, and everytime i go out of and into my house. i should stamp my foot twice. He said i should check the bottom of my door to see if there are "people" outside or inside waiting for me.That of course, scared me shitless and for the rest of the dream i was freaked out (kinda). My room mates wouldn't leave the house for fear of stranger creatures taking them away.

transition three: i was walking into the woods with the charm on my neck (now a necklace!) and all of a sudden i was surrounded by fairies demanding i give it back to them. Of course, i wouldn't it was so pretty. They slashed my wrist. Amazingly it didn't hurt, but the blood flowed like a river, dripping hideously unto the ground. I just watched in awe. It didn't hurt. My ex (WTF!!?!) came rushing out of the forest, as did my current and started wiping the blood, to no avail. It soaked the cloth and bandages they were trying to sop it with. All i could do was watch.

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dahil sa progress bar...

You Are a Hunter Soul

You are driven and ambitious - totally self motiviated to succeed Actively working to acheive what you want, you are skillful in many areas. You are a natural predator with strong instincts ... and more than a little demanding. You are creative, energetic, and an extremely powerful force. An outdoors person, you like animals and relate to them better than people. You tend to have an explosive personality, but also a good sense of humor. People sometimes see you as arrogant or a know it all. You tend to be a bit of a loner, though you hate to be alone. Souls you are most compatible with: Seeker Soul and Peacemaker Soul

What Kind of Soul Are You?

monday blahs and sniffs

Just for the record, may sakit pa rin ako.

I am at work after, well, staying in to rest during last week's pre-weekend days. *Sigh* I am hoping that the flu will go away but alas, its sticky claws are still enveloping my throat. Sheesh.

But since my workload has been piling up, i had to come down the office. *sigh* times like these i wish i was portable too.

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I am grateful for the weekend though. It gave me time to rest, recuperate and spend some QT with my sweetie :-)

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Inscribed in chalk, Jolography is vivdly remembered.

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In one of our recent trips, we launched a "day trip to Corregidor". That meant waking up at the ungodly hour of 5am and waiting for the boat in CCP at 8am (we didn't have reservations for the boat ride). I had low expectations since i haven't had any notion on what to expect. What i thought to be a boring trip was actually, quite fun.

The idea of Corregidor that stuck in my brain since Grade school was that it was one of the islands where US and Japanese troops battled for Manila. Little did i know that this small tadpole of an island was one of the key locations in getting hold of not only Manila, but the US force in the Pacific. I found out about the wars fought by brave and fearless Filipinos who shed blood for the country. Going around the island, i can only imagine those days of endless smoke and cries of anguish as they endured the days and nights of battle.

I cannot say if i will go to the island again. But the history that was shown to me was quite a revelation, and made me well, proud to be in a country that was so rich in history and has overcome so many battle scars. :-)

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still sick part deux : plugging na lang muna

TOURS! TOURS! TOURS!
January - February Walking Tour Schedule!
Happy New Year! Kung Hei Fat Choy! and Happy Valentines!

CARLOS RECOMMENDS!
Philippine Islands, Images of a People 1860-1920
Vintage Photos from the John Silva Collection
WHERE: Silver Lens Gallery, 33C, South Tower, Pacific Plaza, Fort
Bonifacio,
Tel:
WHEN: Opening Party, January 13, Thu, 5:00pm to 8:00pm
Runs till February 25

Paolo Alcarazen, Lecture
"Streets of Manila and Urban Sprawl"
Lopez Memorial Museum
Benpres Building, Meralco Avenue, Ortigas Center
Saturday, 22 January, from 2-4 PM
(Admission P100).

Note: No CCP Tours in February

WALKABOUT - SPECIAL TOURS:
ALL THE WAY DOWN TO CHINATOWN!
Historical Tour of Binondo and San Nicolas
Rediscover Chinatown! Let's take a Saturday afternoon stroll and
together
we'll rediscover the charms of San Nicolas and Binondo. We'll ride a
horse
drawn coach and check out Plaza Calderon, Binondo Church, Jaboneros
Street,
Madrid Street, Zaragoza Street, Sevilla Street, Lavezares Street,
Ongpin
Street, and the Seng Guan Buddhist Shrine among others as we wander in
and
out of the buildings and alleyways of one of Manila's oldest districts.
Trip ends with visit to Far East Moon Cake Store and Salazar Bakery on
Ongpin Street. Meet at the portico in front of Binondo Church at
2:30PM.
Prepare Php200.00 each for the coach driver.
Pay-what-you-want. Tour is free. Donate an amount at your discretion.
Date:
January 16 - Sunday
February 20 - Sunday

THE REGULAR TOURS:
MARTIAL ARTS!
Walking Tour of the Historic Cultural Center of the Philippines
Complex.
Take note of new starting time!
Its a tour all about the Philippines in the 1970?s and the tumultous
era of
Martial Law, 18 inch bell-bottoms, and Miss Universe. Its a little bit
disco, a little bit New Society, and completely Imeldific. So come take
a
trippy trip through National Artist for Architecture Leandro Locsins
finest
buildings as we analyze one of the most exciting periods in Philippine
history.
Meet at the at the Figaro Coffee Shop beside the CCP at 1:00PM.
Please prepare entrance fee to the PICC and Coconut Palace.
Php30.00 - PICC
Php100.00 - Coconut Palace
Dates:
January 15 - Saturday

IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK!
Walking Tour of Historic Intramuros
Almost four years running now, its the most popular tour in the
selection
and a definite must for beginners in Philippine History. Take a
leisurely
afternoon walk along the 400 year old walls and take in a humorous
analysis
of Philippine art, culture, and society from the Pre-Hispanic and
Hispanic
periods. Ironically irreverent yet informative. Meet in front of Manila
Cathedral at 2:30PM
Please prepare entrance fees to the Casa Manila Museum.
Php 40.00 for adults
Php 15.00 for students.
Dates:
January 23 - Sunday
February 6 - Sunday

THE NORTH BANK
A Shopping Tour of Downtown Manila
Rizal Avenue and the Escolta was Manila's premier shopping district
until
the 1970's when the rise of Makati Commercial Center and the
construction of
the LRT somewhat diminished this distinction. Now part of Manila Mayor
Atienza's Urban Renewal Program, the area has been cleaned up and
rehabilitated as a pedestrian promenade. Most of its mid-20th century
historic charm remains and its still the cheapest place in Manila to
buy
shoes, hardware, appliances, clothes, sex gadgets, jewelery, pearls,
beauty
queen tiaras, voodoo potions, flowers, handicrafts, videos, and
electronics.
This tour of Manila's more fascinating shops will also be coupled with
a
side tour of Quiapo Church, the Bahay Nakpil Bautista, the Handicraft
Center
under the Quezon Bridge, and the Quiapo Mosque. Its a walking tour
heavy on
the walking part. Dress lightly and wear practical shoes. Meet in front
of
the Calvo Building (Wah Yuen Restaurant) on Escolta at 2:30PM
Dates:
January 22 - Saturday
February 5 - Saturday

REGULAR TOUR RATE:
Tour fees:
Php400.00 for adults
Php150.00 for students
Public school students and government employees go free.
Please call to reserve. The free slots are limited per tour.

PRIVATE TOUR RATES:
For a group of 5 pax or less (Php600.00 each person) - full fare of
Php3000.00 for less than 5.
6 to 10 pax (Php550.00 each person)
11 - 15 pax (Php500.00 each person)
16 - 20 pax (Php450.00 each person)
21 - 25 pax (Php400.00 each person)
26 - above (Php350.00 each person)
PRIVATE STUDENT TOUR RATE:
Php150.00 (Minimum group of 25 pax)

Its best to call and check if there are private tours already scheduled
for
the week. Sometimes you may join those tours and its cheaper than
booking a
private tour just for yourself.

For all reservations, directions, or inquiries:
Email: celdrantours@hotmail.com
Text: 0 926 2597506 to reserve
Phone: 671-7726

still sick

Pare, wasted nako.

I am still sick. Managed to do a couple of chores, get some rest (40 minute nap?) and yep, was even able to fix a printing problem through the phone sometime today.

I cannot fathom why there would still be some people who would bother you when you are sick. After all, the main objective of staying home would be to rest (a.k.a, not work). Oh well. *sigh* It's partly my fault. I cannot bear the thought of turning off my phone, since it will cut me off not just from work, but from everybody else as well. I tried doing that yesterday but ended up having more than 30 delayed messages and about 10 missed calls (3 from family, the rest from work). I tell ya, it's harder to keep on erasing those messages than it is just receiving them on time and erasing them as they come in.

I hope i can muster enough strength to go back to work tomorrow --- as far as the workload goes, it'll be a pile of papers when i get back. Sheesh.

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(a short plug for those in the area and are bitten by the art bug!)

Artist-Guided Tour with Brenda Fajardo
February 8, Tuesday, 2-4 pm
Fee: P100

Wouldn’t you like to hear things straight from the
horse’s mouth? While Luna, Hidalgo and the rest of the
artists featured in “A Rough Sketch: Initial Musings”
would be unable to personally speak, their works will
do so in their stead. Dr. Brenda Fajardo on February
9 will give a guided tour of the exhibition to help
these works speak to viewers. A painter, stage
designer, and teacher, Dr Fajardo will enable the
viewers to understand and appreciate the studies and
sketches of the featured artists. Fee is P100 (Limited
slots). Participants are asked to bring either
charcoal pencil and white pencil or black and white
contè crayon, and a brush for the activity. Dr Brenda
Fajardo received her MA in arts education at the
University of Wisonsin. She is founding member of the
Philippine Art Educators Association and the
KASIBULAN. She is a 1992 Thirteen Artist awardee of
the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

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random thoughts when you're sick

I am living for moments.
I cherish every moment that i still have with you.
I look forward to the moments that i will share with you.

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I am sick. Flu hasn't been kind to me --watery eyes, clogged nose, the pale face --- but when you're sick and someone tells you that you are beautiful, you know the someone is special. :-) I am happy even though my body aches and my joints cry out in pain.

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I wish i can bottle up moments and drink them like an elixir whenever i feel blue. I want to remember every though, every word, every action and absorb them like water.

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7/11 Munchies at night and eggs for breakfast --- nothing beats a combination of food, cooking and watching Sopranos with you!

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I will never watch Sopranos (or the Family Guy) the same way again.

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girls are pretty, some more news and yes, other interesting reads for the day

this blog kicks ass!

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limpbwizit's solo movie adventure is pretty weird. (i'm thinking twice of watching at Podium tuloy)

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Watching the Sopranos, i never imagined that the stress of a crooked life can catch up with you. I was wrong. Not only that, actual circumstances depict such psychological pressure. Some news today kinda spooked me out.

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no scrubs

i am sick.kinda.

My sweetie's fever broke sometime last night, something i am really thankful for. He's been having the 24 (or should i say 48?) hour bug, and i think remnants of that has been transferred to me. My nose is clogged and my eyes have been watering. *sigh* Oh well. It's not a bad thing, actually. I guess i'm used to the fact that i have these every so often from stress and all the weather changes happening.

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Things have been quite hectic at work lately that after office i just head back home and try to get some rest. It's been fun, just hangin' around the house, watching Sopranos with him and eating dinner. It's funny, a couple of months back i would have rather killed myself than stay at home but these days i have a better time hangin at home than elsewhere. Hmmm... is this old age catching up with me? Yeah, right...hehhehe.

I love chillin' with my sweetie so much that i actually worry sometimes that we've been spending waaay too much time together we might feel some fading lovin'. So far, that hasn't happened (i'm glad) and i hope it never will. He's such a great guy to hang out it (insert mushy stuff here) and he's so smart (one of the many things i find sooo hot in a guy) and funny. (ok, i'll stop now)

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I don't want no scrubs, scrubs is a guy who won't get no love from me.... AARRGH!! Must..stop.. LSS.... *fumes* (thank God my sweetie ain't a scrub)

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