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Roots and Wings

2012-01-25T01:51:00.000+08:00

Would you believe I taught this (little) girl how to walk? And now she's flying away!!! ♥

Lashes & Lips

2012-01-20T15:15:00.000+08:00

That's my KIKAY THEME for 2012 :)

I'm focusing on my eyelashes with this (on a daily basis I use a thin coat lang. for more special occasions I use a thicker coat plus I make an effort to curl my lashes)

and for my lips my daily product is this

and special occasions with MAC and AVON lip-gear

of course still moisturizing everyday with Celeteque and my soap is still VaniCream

HAPPY WEEKEND!!!

all of the items below - CHECK! hahaha! :)

2012-01-19T10:57:00.003+08:00

eternal

2012-01-19T10:57:00.000+08:00

i dont know why i named this photo such. but it felt right at the time i took the shot.

addiction

2012-01-19T10:51:00.002+08:00

I've gotten really addicted to PlanaForma. Just the way I got addicted to Barre3 and Yoga :) FUN! CHALLENGING!

here we go again :(

2012-01-18T17:03:00.000+08:00

I have a 2nd degree cousin who is 3mos older than me lang. We grew up together. Syempre, always compared to each other. Pero ok lang.

In 2009 we both got married! Both in December pa!

The only difference is, Monica decided to have a baby right away. Of course the comparison began again. Why does she have a baby and Bea doesn’t? It’s been nonstop since Monica announced her pregnancy.

This Saturday, Sophia, Monica’s baby turns 1 year old. Of course there is a HUGE party for the family. I can already feel the amount of comparison and comments and criticism that Hubby and I will hear.

The worst of all of these is actually Papa. He uses very embarrassing and painful words and makes sure his voice is extra loud so that everyone in the room can hear him.

In Mom's 50th birthday party, he shouted out a comment for all 60 guests to hear. Including Mom's high school batch mates and officemates.

Of course I am attending the party. It is not Sophia’s nor Monica’s fault that my father is like this. Pero syempre I wish he would stop.

If you are asking what I have done about this. I have talked to and texted Papa to please stop. Mom has also talked to him. But he seems to really enjoy embarrassing me in public :(

hay...

moving on...

2012-01-16T12:02:00.000+08:00

Lots of sh*t going on. I feel like I am being asked to "pay" for all my sins. Parang this is KARMA getting back at me. Am just trying to move on. To keep moving forward.

crash and burn

2012-01-12T15:47:00.002+08:00

you give it all your all, only for everything to go to waste

the truth that i once knew was all a lie. all a lie.

can this now be rock bottom pls?

how many times should one forgive?

everything thrown out the window.

disbelief.

shock.

regret.

what ifs.

buts.

why's.

when? where? how? who? WHY?!

why?! :(

2012-01-11T17:27:00.001+08:00

WHY?! :(

WANT!

2012-01-10T12:25:00.000+08:00

As materialistic as this may sound, this is how I feel right now - I wanna go back to a HIGH PAYING JOB! I just wanna go back to WORKING HARD AND EARNING A LOT OF MONEY! Seriously! I WANNA BE EARNING AS MUCH AS I WAS EARNING IN GE! Hopefully even more!

Reasons:

1. Buy our 2BR condo (our permanent home)

2. Buy a new car - my car is now 6yrs old!!!

3. Buy more jewelry!

4. Travel! I wanna take Hubby to London, Germany and France (Paris and Versailles)

There. I said it. These are my WANTS.

challenge!

2012-01-09T14:25:00.000+08:00

I had my first PlanaForma class this morning - everyone is correct, its more difficult than Barre3!!! BUT I LUVIIIT! I got the Php3,000 / month unlimited available only for first time students. After that, am not sure what to do. Barre3 is still more affordable. So we'll see. Am loving the challenge though. Even if I hyperventilated this morning. LOL!

Here's to a very healthy, strong and FIT 2012!!!

ARGH!

2012-01-09T13:56:00.000+08:00

I am disappointed (in myself) because I really have no more motivation to go the office at all. ARGH!

wedding Belles

2012-01-07T21:13:00.000+08:00

Splendid Saturday

2012-01-07T20:47:00.003+08:00

Attended the wedding of my very good friend, Isabel. We had a pleasant drive down to Tagaytay. Early for mass. Easy parking. And absolutely perfect Tagaytay weather!

We couldn’t stay for the reception (we have a race tomorrow) so on the way home we just grabbed a bite of bulalo :p

Oh, and passed by the outlet shops a Nuvali. I’ve already noted what I want to buy there next time and set aside budget for it :p [guys, I highly recommend the place!] - deserves a blog post of its onw!

Lovely Saturday! Super!

Back to Basics

2012-01-06T16:48:00.001+08:00

And because I have always been a fighter, I will fight off this self pity and move on.

I've started my back to basics program. This is more on physical fitness.

its simple and direct. I will join races every Sunday, which forces me to train on weeknights.

I will also join Plana Forma as often as I can - for strength and conditioning.

Other than that I am cutting my alcohol intake as much as I can (I cant cut it 100% like Hubby, hehe)

And continue to watch what goes in my mouth.

I', excited to get this ball rolling. This may help me achieve a more positive outlook in life!

(PSE BULL RUN 5K, GO NATURAL RUN 10K, TIMEX RUN 10K. Then Plana Forma start Jan 9)

Highs and Lows

2012-01-06T16:43:00.001+08:00

That’s what 2011 was to me.

Most of it was a total HIGH! I was at my best in terms of physical health and strength. Completed my first marathon and was focused a lot of strength and conditioning.

My career was at an all-time high too. Got really addicted to my work and accomplished A LOT!

Basta, from Jan to Oct, everything was at an all time high!

But I guess just like they say, sometimes you’re up, sometimes you’re down. What really hurt when I went downhill in Oct-Nov was the reason behind it. Na-politika ako ng boss ko. And because his level is Marketing Director and I am merely a Marketing Manager, there is not much that I can do.

I thought about staying. Kasi naman I really love my work. But there are other things that happened (that he did) that now makes it impossible for me to stay. To be honest there I thought I was going to lose my job last November.

I also declined in running and overall fitness. Am not really sure why. Basta I stopped running and I think I allowed myself to dwell in elf pity. Which is so not me!

I guess what really happened is I was given a taste of humble pie. And as much as I want to retaliate and disagree, I believe I know that at this point I will accept it and move on.

I entered 2012 with a lot of caution and fear. I don’t think I was really looking forward to it. And am still wary until now. Am not quite sure where to go. Am not quite sure where I am headed. But I have to keep moving, right?

This days' performance indicative of the years' performance (?)

2012-01-01T22:42:00.000+08:00

A rundown of my Jan 1, 2012 activites. Hoping his will indicate how the year pans out:

1. Greeted the new year (salubong) just with Hubby - hoping that we get to spend more quality time together - and to travel together :)

2. woke up at 11am - not really good. its best of course to wake up bright and early in the monring to accomplish a lot of things. but we did sleep at 2am - and we were drunk :p So let's see how this goes ;)

3. had brunch at Via Mare (arroz caldo, spicy tuyo flakes and Laguna white cheese on pandesal) comforting Filpino food! Hope this year brings a lot of warmth to the heart and tummy :)

4. quick trip to Sbux for the holiday drinks

5. Spent time with Lola - this of course is always on the lsit - but being able to do this on the first day of this year hopefully means more time with her over the course of the year

6. grocery, our weekly bonding activity :) hehe :) bought the usual stuff. nothing new on the list though...

7. out with the old in with the new! looked through our bags, shoes, clothes, kitchen cabinets etc and set aside the items for donation! felt SOOO GOOD!

8. Mass. Twas unusally solemn today... Nice reflection... I prayed for something and I knew it was exaclty what I should be praying for. Message was clear.

9. Dinner with the Family. COMPLETE ATTENDANCE! This is always a good sign!!!

10. Bought a book - L Timestudio MiltiSport 2011 Sourcebook - reading it and its giving me that motivation to get my a$$ moving again!!! :) yeehaw!!!

Hello 2012!!!

new year...

2011-12-27T11:05:00.000+08:00

There's lots to do before the year ends. Need to clean up 2011 and be ready with a clean slate for 2012. Excited!!! Or is it more of hopeful? Hay. The chances we take in life...

Family

2011-12-26T11:16:00.000+08:00

just because...

2011-12-25T23:47:00.000+08:00

Christmas is not not here...

2011-12-22T10:51:00.000+08:00

This morning, I told myself "I don't feel Christmas, but I feel a lot of LOVE going around." Then I realized "Well, that's what Christmas is really about, right? LOVE".

So Christmas is here ♥

doing it!

2011-12-21T14:43:00.001+08:00

I'm creating a new e-mail address na. This time with my married name. It's a big change, ha. My yahoo e-mail addy is already a decade old! (more pa yata?)

Let's do it! :D

MORE SENSIBLE STUFF!

2011-12-20T16:05:00.002+08:00

Top 10 ways to avoid themistakes of 2011

1. Target

2. Quit

3. Enjoy your commute

4. Say yes

5. Get promoted

6. Get hitched

7. Experiences not goods

8. Laugh

9. Get lucky

10. Improve your home

10 unusual New Year’s resolutions SENSIBLE STUFF

2011-12-20T16:04:00.000+08:00

10 unusual New Year’sresolutions

1. Learn a decent party trick

2. Get your photo taken in five interesting places

3. Break a record

4. Make a new friend a month

5. Develop a good relationship with your body

6. Learn something you never learned as a child

7. Try a new food each week

8. Make the usual unusual

9. Sort out a financial worry

10. Do something nice for others every day

Reflecting on 2011 this early

2011-12-18T22:46:00.000+08:00

I was stuck in horrible traffic along Gilmore and Oritgas today and for some odd reason I started looking back at this year.

Mistakes

I realized that 2011 is a year of mistakes for me. I only realized it today. But this year I made a lot of mistakes. I made a lot of wrong decisions. Prioritized the wrong thongs and I did quite a few bad things (toward other people, toward myself etc.) It’s not easy at all admitting mistakes. I guess that’s why it’s not something I share on my FB nor on twitter. I mean, am not proud of some of them and in fact I am ashamed of other mistakes I made too…

My biggest concern now is: Did I learn from my stakes?

I can’t answer that yet. To be honest, when I alk to myself about it, I still rationalize. Minsan di ko pa tanggap ang ibang mga pagkakamali ko. I guess it’s partly pride. We all have that naman diba? I just have a lot more of it. Believe me.

I may have been painting some rosy picture on social networking sites, but that’s not always the case.

Missing

And because of all the mistakes I made. And the heartaches I felt. And feeling lost or in limbo… I missed my Lolo a whole lot this year. Much more than 2010. Also I missed his voice more than anything. Not his scent (Drakkar Noir) not his tobacco, not his vodka, not his face nor his smile. I miss hearing his voice. Its such a comforting tome when he talks to me. Lolo has only raised his voice at me once. You have to understand, to Lolo I can never be wrong. I never made mistakes. He was my # 1 fan in all aspects in my life. Present in all graduations, awards, special moments… except my wedding.

What I yearn for the most is to hear his voice and for him to tell me something. Either it’ll all be ok. Or for him to tell me what to do next. Heck, c’mon Lolo, pagalitan mo na ako Just talk to me pls :(

Faith

This year is also my worst year in terms of my faith. Don’t get me wrong I am not bragging bout this. I am declaring it. See it as a confession. To begin with I am no miss goody two shoes. I am no holy-holy person. But I have never been as distant from God, Mama Mary and Jesus as I have been this year. It’s shameful. And I want to repair this relationship. I know the ball is on my court. I will make the first move…

This leads me to worry. I worry about 2012. I want it to be a great year. I want to do the right things. I want to fix the wrong that I have done. I want to make amends with God. I want to know where to go. In terms of work. In terms of my spiritual life / my faith. I am worried because I don’t know where to start… or what exactly / literally do I do .. what steps do I take to make sure 2012 will be a good year. I want things to be right again.

bright(er) news

2011-12-16T00:06:00.000+08:00

shopping for presents was surprisingly easy this year. no stress. and all within budget. nice :) thank you universe, for this :)

sob

2011-12-15T23:21:00.002+08:00

I lost it today. Meaning my composure. Oh well.

Confeermed

2011-12-14T16:44:00.000+08:00

I was talking to a friend last night. Told her about a situation in my life and how I am reacting to it. And she said “selfish ka nga”. Hay.

While she confeermed what I thought I was doing (being selfish) it hasn’t stopped me from feeling this way. Ugh!

So to the other woman (not my friend), pls. stop updating you status with that (stupid) countdown.

Ayan. Selfish comment again from me! Ugh x2!

hanging out with Lola

2011-12-12T12:39:00.000+08:00

I spent most of Sunday with Lola. She is such a character na! We watched ASAP and to my surprise (and delight?) she knows MOST of the young stars! Their names and what telenovela's they belong to. With side comments pa!

* her first statement ayan, hija, kilala mo si Gerald Anderson?! siya si Budoy, diba?! (uhm, Lola, I really wouldn't know :p

* she referred to anne curtis as "pandak" (i guess she meant she's short - kasi she saw anne curtis in podium na daw)

* she was happy to see piolo on tv. kasi after kc's interview daw, akala niya magtatago na si piolo forever :p

* according to her, dati, si sara geronimo, mukhang probinsyana. ngayon, may class na siya :p

* and of course, the best comment of the day "alam mo hija, mas maganda ka sa kanilang lahat"

LOLA FTW!!! hahaha! <3

Elica

2011-12-09T11:44:00.000+08:00

Before I forget, sharing with you the more affordable cream I now use for my skin asthma. Its a little under Php500 (while my derma make me use a cream more than Php600!!!)

Weaning

2011-12-09T11:41:00.000+08:00

I am weaning my skin away from being so dependent to my derma. The cost of her medicines (creams for the face) is just way too expensive na!

I usually just need a very good moisturizer naman, as I am not "ma-pimple". I will still go to my derma for monthly cleaning and I will buy my soap from her (Vani cream) but from now on I will use the moisturizer of Celeteque.

I've been using it anyway since 2004 or 2005 and it really works well on my skin! So I'll also be testing out their other products. They are so affordable naman kasi! Super happy with them! :)

The Comeback

2011-12-07T13:10:00.000+08:00

When I was 2yrs old, I had a very bad case of skin asthma - on my fingers / nails. It disappeared after a full year of ointments and pretty much the doc said I outgrew it na.

Why, at the age of 30, is it back? :( It really is an ugly sight to see :( I am diligent in putting my creams and ointments... But what I hate the most is apparently I should not take any alcoholic beverage (sorry, I cant comply with that!) and I need to be stress and worry free plus get very good hours of sleep.

Impossible.

So I am simply managing it and getting by with the topical medication. Oh, and plus, getting a manicure is close to impossible!

in a dark place

2011-12-06T13:15:00.000+08:00

I'm in a dark place right now when it comes to work/career. Some shit happened recently (out of my control) and I still can't seem to control it.
I've already made a conscious effort to not have friends at the workplace. Its easier this way. Simpler. Less stress. Less issues. But the tension between me and my boss is still there.

Over the weekend, while on vacation, I realized I have to go. I thought about having to be moved to a different department. Feasible. But it really is time to move out. My problem is I LOVE my job. I love the work that I do. I just have a problem with my subordinate and superior.

So it may be December, when everyone is filled with cheer and hope. And here I am. In a dark place.

Hernandez Family Planning

2011-11-28T16:53:00.002+08:00

We got this tip from a friend. Apparently they do this once a year at the end of the calendar year in preparation for the coming calendar year.

Family Planning

Nope. Don’t go thinking RH bill, contraceptives etc. It’s pretty much like a planning session for a corporation but this time it’s for us.

We have to create pillars or verticals of where we must work on or improve on for next year. We will have individual plans and goals then we will have joint plans and goals.

For example, for me, I want to work on the ff:

Physical – continue with my physical fitness. Keep going for long endurance runs and be physically fit.
Spiritual – attend a retreat in January (I haven’t done this in a looong time!). Do more work with NGO’s/Charities etc.
Educational/Mental – 2 things. Educate myself more on entrepreneurship and go back to learning German.
Family (aside from Hubby) – focus more of my free time with my Lola more than anyone else. Spend more time with my brother as I believe I’d like to play an active role in his life even if he’s in college na.

Then Hubby will make one of his own – then we work on our common goals.

But knowing my husband, I can sense he will list down at least the following (this is for joint goals):

Travel more! (SG, HK, Tokyo, Hiroshima, Boracay, CDO, Sydney)
Start a businesses (or more than 1 if kaya!)

As for his personal goals I know what they are but its unfair of me to declare it here without his permission, so no nalang.

I’m sooo excited for this!!!

p.s. Ideally I have a vertical for CAREER here, but I am in a black hole right now I won’t list it muna…

There!

survey says...

2011-09-28T11:29:00.000+08:00

If you could choose a place to live in (a city, a country), where would that be?

Yikes!!!

2011-08-17T14:16:00.000+08:00

I’ve always known that I have an issue with authority. And I honestly don’t mean to be mean most of the time. Matapang lang talaga ako na tao. Very passionate with what I am in to. And so sometimes sobrang taray or sungit ko – not because I want to be but because feel na feel ko i-address ang point ko.

Problem is syempre people I deal with see this as me being a bitch and unapproachable. They have reason naman. Alam ko mataray ako. I don’t deny that. Lalo na here at work. Syempre I want things to run on time and smoothly. Sana perfect lahat, diba?

Medyo (ok, sobra) akong na sermonan ng boss ko. Apparently there are 2 types of “comments” about me here sa office:

1. Ang taray ko so there are people that don’t like me
2. Ang taray ko so the staff are afraid of me!

Biggest issue was one assistant here who handles delivery … eh napagalitan ko kasi 1 week nan aka panding ang Cebu delivery ko sa kanya so syempre I got mad at her, diba? Eh sobra pala talaga siyang natakot! Shucks! So nag report her boss to my boss about it.

I’m actually very sorry I made her feel that bad. Nagalit lang naman ako kasi nga mabagal kumilos. Ugh. Didn’t mean for her to take it personally.

My personality really is too strong. This is not the first time that a superior of mine has talked to me about this personality issue of mine. I really try to fix it naman – pero, diba, at the heat of the moment, syempre nandun na yung passion ko – which people misconstrue as me being masungit, mataray, a bitch or simply mad at them.

Hay!

Syet. Naiiyak ako sa feedback that I got. I don’t deny it naman – but I don’t mean to be that way eh. Yun lang talaga yun :(

Hay. Meron bang seminar dito on how to be nice?

a picture of a thousand emotions

2011-07-06T19:23:00.000+08:00

A photo was posted by my tito on facebook today. A photo of me and my younger sister smiling. But it brought back many painful memories. When I saw the photos, I cried. Little did I know my Mom felt exactly the same way I felt when she saw the photos. Not all smiling photos bring back good memories. Sometimes, they trigger sad and painful ones. So while I was driving to market market, I was on the phone consoling my crying mother. (she called me when she saw the photo). And for my mother to cry over a sad situation, that means it was really bad (Mom cries with happy news but she doesn’t usually budge when its sad or bad news). I didn’t know who to tell this to because I prefer not to share the details. Only this emotion I felt today, and the incidents of today. And that all I could think of is

“Mom, I wish I could share with you in the right words and let you know that I know everything you went through because of Papa. And I know you did the best you could to shield your daughters – and we all felt that. And we all know that none of this is your fault. And that we admire your strength beyond words. And that I agree that we should never look at our photo albums of the past. Because it’s the past. And we are all in a better place and we are better off now and this is what we should enjoy and savor and keep working on. I’m glad our albums are locked in a chest and am hoping that the mold and the termites eat them and ruin them forever. Your daughters are this strong because of you. And we’ve directed our lives the best way we could so that we can show the world that you are a good mother – contrary to what Papa’s family says about you. We want to negate all the lies that were created about you. But the best way to do this is to be living examples of how grown daughters are when they are raised by a GREAT MOTHER. And at the end of the day, we will make sure our children grow in your care, because we know you will raise them even better than the way you raised us. And hopefully this time around you will have more time to teach them more “kalokohan” ;)”

the early bird catches the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese - francis j. kong

2011-01-22T01:50:00.000+08:00

Sharing the wise words from this book. Wise for me, and I hope for you guys too.

ü We have to be thankful. There are just so many good things going for us!
ü Thanksgiving is good but thanksliving is better!
ü Life is a matter of perspective. It’s not what happens to you, it’s how you look at it and how you take it.
ü Complete with all its challenges, life is a great adventure to be enjoyed.
ü We try to fix things ourselves but we forget that we are the ones with problems.
ü “I have surrendered myself to the idea that only GOD can fix me.” (Let go and let GOD)
ü Let Christ do the fixing. He never fails!
ü What is my Epitaph?
ü Decide to live life joyfully.
ü It’s not the years that I have put into my life that counts, it’s the life I put into the years that would have mattered most (What matters most in my life?)
ü And may all those years bring glory to God’s name!
ü I want to think the world is fair. That everyone is honest and good.
ü Be a positive person. Seeking out the best instead of the worst. Be a positive person. There is nothing you can gain by dwelling on the negative.
ü There is no way to determine or measure the size of your heart. They can’t measure your heart.
ü Never let anyone convince you that you are not good enough. Never allow anyone to question your heartfelt desire to be the best you can be!
ü Associate with people who will sharpen you.
ü It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog that matters.
ü Don’t be too obsessed with having to know everything.
ü Your reach should exceed your grasp.
ü It would be infinitely worse to have 20/20 eyesight and no vision than to be blind but have a vision.
ü Develop your own dream, your own vision.
ü One of the reasons why we do not get far is because we do not aim far.
ü God did not create dummies. He has put within each of us a seed for greatness, enabling us to achieve great things for HIS sake.
ü Nobody gets to run the mill by doing run-of-the-mill work.
ü Adversity produces opportunities and we simply have to be strong enough to face it head-on and then discover hidden breaks and prospects behind it. What did I learn from my adversity?
ü LIFE: 20% is what happens to us and 80% is the way we respond to what happens.
ü “Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
ü When you give of yourself, you receive more that you give.
ü EB always willing to embrace ambiguity, paradox and uncertainty.
ü Think out of the box. Look at an issue form different perspectives. Take risks and ask for God’s wisdom in dealing with a problem.
ü Use wisdom to deal with people of different personalities in the work place. Respond and do not react. Master your moods and never reveal your emotions to people who would take advantage of you.
ü Trust in God and let the revenge business be His.
ü Never forget that the best revenge is a life well lived. Follow the Word of God (the rules of right living) and be subject to the God of the Word, and only then will you find yourself a winner.
ü We are conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments. But great moments often catch us unaware – beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a “small one”.
ü What are your great moments?
ü My job is to choose what kind of day I am going to haveü PERSPECTIVE
ü What today will be like is up to me
ü I get to choose what kind of day I will have!
ü Have a great day! Unless you have other plans…
ü The happiest people don’t necessarily have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything.
ü The issue in life is not what happens but how you take it.
ü And for the man who puts his trust in God, he says, “Today is the day that the Lord has made, and I shall rejoice and be glad in it.”
ü BURY your “I cant’s”
ü I CAN. I WILL. I’M GOING TO, RIGHT AWAY.
ü Good leadership starts with being a good servant. That says it all.
ü Often, it isn’t what we say but how we say it
ü What is everything?
ü What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?
ü Imagine not reading the Manual of life written by the Author o life. Result: wrong living!
ü When the hour is darkest and your trials are their greatest, does your worship elevate to a higher level, or do you desert Him?
ü When you feel burdened by your own troubles, do you still reach out and help others?
ü How do you handle adversity?
ü Sometimes, the most loving thing you can do is to let someone else be your hero!
ü Respect is very important in marriage
ü It’s not about finances, it’s not about compatibility, it’s all about respect and care.
ü And it’s all about having both parties getting closer to God and in the process they become close to each other.
ü People have challenges they are constantly fighting
ü Let’s make it our life mission to build people up
ü The greatest power for good is the power of example
ü How do you pray?
ü The truth is, there’s no better time to be happy than right now. If not now, when? Your life will always be filled with challenges. Its best to admit this to yourself and decide to be happy anyway.
ü I carry the capacity to be happy. To enjoy life right at this moment.
ü Life is short. It has a past, it has a present and it has a future. Are we living it well so that every piece of timeframe is not wasted on useless projects?
ü Trust God for His timing.
ü The amenities of life are all there but the happiness is not. So much to live with, yet so little to live for.

boo :( I don't blog anymore :(

2011-01-05T21:42:00.001+08:00

2010-12-29T21:32:00.000+08:00

Look at Papa's crab collection!!! :9

2010-12-29T21:26:00.000+08:00

me & hubby with baby anton (my youngest cousin & godson on my mom's side of the family) plus our fave, cheese and salami platter :9

my christmas meal

2010-12-29T21:20:00.000+08:00

our gift to Papa and Dad

2010-12-29T21:13:00.000+08:00

XII XXII MMXX

2010-12-23T19:37:00.000+08:00

food, glorious food!

2010-12-05T09:19:00.000+08:00

in celebration of Papa and Mama's 30th wedding anniversary <3

oldies

2010-12-03T14:55:00.000+08:00

Last Monday's holiday was such a blessing. we slept all day! LOL! Well, actually, Mom prepared an awesome lunch... then we slept again! LOL!

Life has been a little too exciting for us lately. Both SUPER BUSY with work. Hubby has been travelling a lot too... for work.

Right now, we are looking forward to the holiday break, plus our 1st wedding anniversary and just lounging around <3

Starbucks Drive-Thru at The Fort

2010-11-29T11:43:00.000+08:00

agree? :)

2010-11-29T11:41:00.000+08:00

the (other) Loves of my life!

2010-11-29T11:39:00.000+08:00

this is my college barkada - plus kids ;)

yummeh!

2010-11-29T11:36:00.000+08:00

perfect mix of chocolate and mint! super sarap! Hubby bought it in Sydney. Sayang he bought only 1 bar, coz I downed this is like 5secs :p

Love, Love, Love, Love, Looove

2010-11-29T11:34:00.001+08:00

The LowCal Cafe (Desserts! Sugar-Free) at the Mercato Centrale BGC

2010-11-22T15:25:00.002+08:00

Advertising/Branding help pls

2010-11-18T17:07:00.000+08:00

I would like to advertise/brand the ff:

MRT train (MRT train wrap)
BGC e-trike

Who do I approach?

Cool Shooters

2010-11-18T16:14:00.000+08:00

Man oh man! this is oh so for me!

COOL SHOOTERS

Quite literally the coolest shot glasses in the world. These New York designed easy, pop-out ice mould shot glasses are the perfect accompaniment to a night of wild debauchery. After all, if you're going to knock back a tequila, or lose yourself in a Baileys, how better to do this than from a glass made of ice. Cool Shooters are as easy as making ice-cubes (so not much of a challenge there then), and you don't have to limit yourself to plain old water - make your Cool Shooters out of orange or cranberry juice (great with vodka) or use melted chocolate and fill them with Malibu or something equally sickly. We sacrificed a great deal of time and effort researching the different combinations you can have with Cool Shooters. Unfortunately we didn't write down all our research, and the rest of the night is (fortunately) all a bit of a blur. Still, that's a fairly good indication that they're a blast and a great way to pass, and ultimately forget, a great evening.

A rubber mold for making funky shot glasses.
The mold makes 4 shot glasses.
Each glass even has a decagon (10 sided shape) base like real glass shot glasses.
The mold is made of pure food grade silicone rubber.
The silicone makes the mold durable and as it can stand temperatures of -14°C to 230°C, versatile for holding hot and cold substances.
Suitable for freezing many freezable (no, vodka doesn't freeze) liquids such as water or juice, and even for making a mold from something hot, say, melted chocolate.
When freezing or chilling, we recommend leaving your substance to chill for a minimum of 6 hours.
Dishwasher safe.
Suitable for adults only as it is a drinking related product.
Size: 12.5 x 12.5 x 7cm.

Desserts! Sugar-Free is at the Mercato Centrale lifestyle bazaar

2010-11-16T01:44:00.000+08:00

Early advise: On Nov. 21, Sunday, from 6am to 12nn, Desserts! Sugar-Free is at the Mercato Centrale lifestyle bazaar. Come see our Sugar-free desserts at the corner of
30th St and 9th Ave (near The Spa, BHS, BGC) It's our first day!!! :)
See you there :D

nakikiuso

2010-11-10T22:54:00.000+08:00

I'm eligible to get a Blackberry for free (BB Curve 8520 Gemini in red) so I just might - even if its for a very superficial reason :p

Paminsan-minsan okay din naman maging shallow at feeling sosyal ;)

is that you?!

2010-11-08T16:41:00.000+08:00

naaaks... i'm getting domesticated, huh?

yesterday, instead of getting excited over filling out my sbux promo card, i got more excited with filling out my Rustan's promo card, which, with 16 stickers, at Php500 per sticker, i get to earn my Rustan's Fresh 2011 planner! YAY!

plus! i got really excited when i got hold of a Rustan's fresh magazine. I immediately encircled items on sale that I will buy next weekend ;)

its been a week of HIGHS and LOWS...

2010-11-06T08:52:00.001+08:00

3 days at the new job is awesome - am loving every minute of it!

4 nights of hubby on the nightshift is heartbreaking :((

its been a week of HIGHS and LOWS...

Day 1 went well :)

2010-11-03T21:30:00.000+08:00

EnSoGo Philippines

we're on Facebook

and twitter

my (new) after race ritual

2010-11-01T07:42:00.000+08:00

I enjoy massages – but am not addicted to them. I have them when I need one – when am tense, stressed or after an intense workout.

Hence you will not hear from me about high end expensive spa’s in the city. I just won’t go for or to them.

I found out about Big Apple Express Spa while walking around the Piazza of McKinley Hill. I found out that their massages are cheap (not simply affordable, but cheap) and you know, usually, if the service is cheap, it’s also not good.

But that’s not always the case.

I tried them out after my 21KM race because I needed to soothe me sore muscles and stretch my entire body.

One thing that’s different about me also is that I don’t enjoy the scent of lavender or the usual scents they use in aromatherapy. It gives me a headache. I always specifically ask for mint or peppermint or lemon/lime. Other than that, I prefer a dry massage, if ever.

I tried out their FIRE ICE massage. I asked for something minty or “maanghang” and this is what was recommended. At Php499 I got a 45 minute massage – lots of stretching (LOVE IT!) and some massage at certain pressure points. BUT the ultimate amazing thing about this massage is that a type of lotion is spread all over your body – as if it were BenGay (remember this? or Salonpas) It was THE PERFCET after race or after workout massage!!!

I recommend this to anyone who’s had a heavy day of labor or an intense workout.

Word of caution: if you are not used to spreading liniment on your skin, you night not enjoy this. Or you can tell the masahista to lessen the amount of lotion being used.

some links:
multiply
facebook

running my legs and heart out!

2010-10-30T12:32:00.000+08:00

My Adidas King Of The Road

Half-Marathon race

it's my last week at the bank. bow.

2010-10-26T08:49:00.003+08:00

Living life through the colors of the rainbow!

2010-10-20T15:13:00.000+08:00

On Oct. 22, I am a guest speaker at Bald Runner's BDM Lecture series. I will talk about my experiences and tips on supporting an Ultramarthon runner. (naks! ;)

On Oct. 24, I will run my first half-marathon. I have trained very well and very hard for this... And all I ask from my mind and body is that I finish it under 3hours.

On Oct. 29, I will say goodbye to this current bank I work for and to the banking industry as a whole. Its been a wonderful 6 year ride. Really!

On Nov. 3. I start my career with a young social commerce company. A group of less than 50, I am the only Marketing & PR/Comms person there. It may be a smaller company but my work scope will be larger (I'll handle all facets of Marketing – BTL, ATL, Offline, Online) plus PR and Events. I am excited for the very heavy workload because this is what I am passionate about!!!

Living life through the colors of the RAINBOW

Running shoe comparison and review

2010-10-18T20:37:00.002+08:00

Sharing with you a review of my Brooks Glycerin8, in comparison to my Nike Vomero +4. Note that if you would like to see the technical aspects of my running shoes, you may simply go to the ff websites:

NIKE VOMERO +4
http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/?l=shop,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-1/pid-338339/pgid-301213

BROOKS GLYCERIN8
http://www.brooksrunning.com/product/1200681B/374682/Glycerin%208

Below is my review based on my experience of using both shoes.

My first official running shoe, as suggested by a gait analysis, was a NIKE Vomero +4. Very thick cushioning and pretty heavy for a running shoe, because I was (and I kind of still am) a heel striker.

The Vomero has thick cushioning and my foot felt very comfy inside. Felt like I was walking on pillows. It had good ankle and heel support and lessened my lower back pain.

Of course, ideally, as a runner, I am still supposed to veer away from very heavy and hard heel striking. But based on my running experience., I still end up heel striking once my legs are very tired. Hence a cushioning shoe is best for me.

I've ran with my Vomero's in the pouring rain and its darn heavy! But the shoe still served its main purpose for 1 entire year.

I had to move on to a new shoe because the cushioning of my Vomero had given in. I started to have lower back pain and pain in my ankle and my feet in its entirety. Plus I had used it for a year for training runs and races, so it was just really due fore retirement / replacement.

During my visit to RUNNR it was still very clear to me (and with me) that I still need a shoe that provides utmost cushioning. I have not graduated from heel striking yet thus I should not move on to racing flats (not even a non-cushioning shoe! UGH!)

But, knowing what type of runner I am is a good thing, hence I tried 3 different shoes on the treadmill. All providing good cushioning... and the Brooks Glycerin8 won my vote. (versus Adidas and New Balance)

It feels the same yet different.

Brooks boasts of DNA technology (at the sole of my shoe, it says "Running is my DNA"). This means that over time, as you use the shoe, it takes the shape of your foot.

I always tell people this. The shoe is soft and firm at the same time. If with the Vomero I felt like I was walking on pillows, I also feel the same way with the Glycerin but this time MORE FIRM pillows.

It took around 20-25KMs to break in this shoe though. Which I found a little too long. With the Vomero, I was accustomed to the shoe in less than 10KM. But the Glycerins felt different for quite a while. At first it really felt too stiff. Got me quite worried. But over time, it stood true to its word that it does take the mold/shape of my feet and at the same time still provide the best support and cushioning that it can give me.

I also have ran in the pouring rain with my Brooks, and although filled with water, it felt lighter than the Vomero's.

I am very happy and confident with my Brooks. Much more than my Vomero's. I have ran more than 50KMs in my Brooks already and its my BFF for my first half-marathon (Adidas KOTR on Oct. 24).

I'm really happy I tried Brooks out, because its become such a great running partner. I get the best support I could ever get and that makes me so much more confident in my races. I look forward to my Half-Marathon with my G8... and maybe even my first Marathon in March 2011.

It's been a while!!!

2010-10-17T19:31:00.000+08:00

It’s been a while (a long while) since Manila has experienced an official night race. I’ve heard so many good stories about KRRs night race of 2009 and so many more were looking forward to its sequel in 2010. It aint pushin’ through BUT someone else has got a little sumthin’ sumthin’ for you!!!

Adobo magazine brings you 2010’s first official night race!!! Oh yeah!

Dubbed as Adobo run after dark 2010, this night race is conceptualized by the same dude that conceptualized KRR’s night race. This race is also organized by a good friend of mine, whom I know, knows his stuff and will definitely listen to runners comments and suggestions – both pre race and post race. I am confident that this race will give the best that a night race can give.

Register for only Php600 and join the Adobo Run After Dark 2010 on October 30, 2010, 6:00 pm at McKinley Hill, Taguig. You have a choice of 3K, 5K and 10K race distances too!

It’s a fun run on the night before Hallow’s eve, so come in costume and have a great time!

Contact me if you have questions or simply read all the details in the FB event page:

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=151894814829068

or here

www.adobomagazine.com/adoborun

See ya!

the random yet meaningful

2010-10-17T11:10:00.001+08:00

Ninang and Baby Gabe

partnered with Merlot

a dessert filled girls night out

this is a big deal

2010-10-16T08:48:00.000+08:00

On Oct. 24, I am running 21 kilometers for the first time. I've trained for this so well and so hard. The goal is to complete the race in 2hrs and 45mins. Or at least under 3hrs. Here goes everything!

Without hesitation

2010-10-14T12:10:00.000+08:00

This was my motto as soon as I found out that Adam Lambert was going to hold a concert in manila. Without hesitation on ticket cost and effort to meet him up close and to watch his concert.

And that’s exactly what pulled through for me and Hubby.

We purchase VVIP tickets (waaay up front) with a bonus of a meet and greet session before the concert. (although this didn’t go exactly as planned)

But there I was. I stood 1 person away from him in all his Glamorous Glory. Adam Lambert was one person away from me. His hair and face made up, wearing a plaid long sleeved shirt and jeans, standing more than 6 feet tall with a nicely toned body. My IDOL is in MANILA!

We pulled out all the stops. Checked in in at Microtel moa (which we did ne before for the rexona run) and waited to see him at 6pm. And since the concert was a Sunday night, a Monday VL was already previously filed.

Gates opened at 7pm and we found ourselves comfy in our seats (row H, dead center) and bought a few snacks to keep us company.

Opening act started at 8 and ended at 830pm – and Adam took a while to get up on stage, as he started his concert with a magical theatrical performance at 915pm. And he went on and on until 1015pm as we danced, sang, jumped, freaked out like high school groupies for one entire hour. I took photo after photo and video after video along with my shrieks, shrills and screams and I LOVE YOU’s.

Adam did not disappoint:

His attire (or should I say costume – as it is more appropriate) for the evening was GLAMOROUS! Large hats with feathers. Blacks. Silvers and deep purples. Dark eye makeup with silver glimmer to boot.

His voice was solid. Loud. Clear. Beautiful. Crisp.

His dance moves were fluid and structured. He danced along with the choreography and on his own would break away and let his body enjoy the music.

His band and back up dancers gave an all-out performance and deserved as much praise and applause as Adam did.

Hubby and I ended the evening with a mojito and a margarita at Hooters and called it a night by midnight. I was still grinning from ear to ear and I could still see very clearly the GALMOR that Adam brought to Manila!

On to the next new exciting adventure!

2010-10-07T13:14:00.000+08:00

I tendered my resignation Oct. 4.
I have announced this to my closest friends.
I have informed my other active applications that I am no longer pursuing.
My boss has announced my resignation internally.
I have yet to tell my family.

My last day here is Oct. 29.
My first day at company E is Nov. 3.

After 6 years, I am no longer a banker.

On to the next new exciting adventure!

2010-10-04T11:47:00.000+08:00

is taking the road less traveled...
is taking a RISK...
is going out on a limb...
is breaking my shell...
is leaving my comfort zone...
is trying something new...
is daring to face the great possibility of failure...

and is daring to face the greater possibily of SUCCESS!!!

(here we GO!)

cutie!

2010-10-03T10:30:00.000+08:00

cute drinking straws at Sweet Pea, Piazza, Venice, McKinley Hill

(and the food is very tasty too!!!)

hubby made this

2010-10-03T10:26:00.000+08:00

sauteed broccoli. (garlic, onion, olives, olive oil, lemon juice) its refreshing!

The battle within my SOUL...

2010-09-30T17:00:00.000+08:00

So it has come to this:

Accept a job that will pay me considerably less - but it is something that I am PASSIONATE about. Or accept a job that offers even better pay than what I am receiving now - but it is simply, WORK.

The battle within my SOUL...

elegance

2010-09-28T20:49:00.000+08:00

just okay

my FAVE

this one, they have at BASS, Power Plant Mall Rockwell ;)

dundundunduuunnn...

2010-09-27T08:33:00.000+08:00

budgets are due this week. so stress is going to be a staple in my life this week.

my 2 prospects should reach fruition this week, then i will know:
a) where i am accepted
b) which one i will choose to join (one is a bank, the other is digital media / social commerce)
* sana i get accepted in both so that I have the luxury to choose which one i like. sana.

if nothing comes up this week... its over for me here...

healthy = yummy = healthy

2010-09-24T22:03:00.000+08:00

Come taste our delicious sugar-free desserts at the dessert fair of The Piazza at McKinley Hill.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening from 6pm-11pm.

'tis the season

2010-09-23T08:56:00.000+08:00

YTD expense
YTD volume
ROY accrual amount
2011 expected volume/income
% allotment to Marketing spend

I hope I will not utter these words again after Oct 15 (well, not until another September comes!)

Budget season ROCKS (my sanity!)

Stay with me Lord

2010-09-21T12:54:00.000+08:00

I heard this prayer for the very first time last night.

It struck me so hard because –

my faith has not been that strong for the past couple of months
I have been less and less prayerful
I do not feel that strong connection to my faith – not the way I used to

I am not writing this down in pride – because it certainly is nothing to be proud of! I write this and share this in shame and as an act of confession and acknowledgement of my weaknesses as a Catholic.

When I heard this prayer, I immediately looked for a copy online and now have a copy in my bag.

Its beautiful. It talks to me and for me.

by Saint Padre Pio, OFM Cap.

Stay with me, Lord, for it is necessary to have You present so that I do not forget You. You know how easily I abandon You.

Stay with me, Lord, because I am weak and I need Your strength, that I may not fall so often.

Stay with me, Lord, for You are my life, and without You, I am without fervor.

Stay with me, Lord, for You are my light, and without You, I am in darkness.

Stay with me, Lord, to show me Your will.

Stay with me, Lord, so that I hear Your voice and follow You.

Stay with me, Lord, for I desire to love You very much, and always be in Your company.

Stay with me, Lord, if You wish me to be faithful to You.

Stay with me, Lord, for as poor as my soul is, I wish it to be a place of consolation for You, a nest of Love.

Stay with me, Jesus, for it is getting late and the day is coming to a close, and life passes, death, judgement, eternity approaches. It is necessary to renew my strength, so that I will not stop along the way and for that, I need You. It is getting late and death approaches. I fear the darkness, the temptations, the dryness, the cross, the sorrows. O how I need You, my Jesus, in this night of exile!

Stay with me tonight, Jesus, in life with all its dangers, I need You.

Let me recognize You as Your disciples did at the breaking of bread, so that the Eucharistic Communion be the light which disperses the darkness, the force which sustains me, the unique joy of my heart.

Stay with me, Lord, because at the hour of my death, I want to remain united to You, if not by Communion, at least by grace and love.

Stay with me, Jesus, I do not ask for divine consolation, because I do not merit it, but, the gift of Your Presence, oh yes, I ask this of You!

Stay with me, Lord, for it is You alone I look for. Your Love, Your Grace, Your Will, Your Heart, Your Spirit, because I love You and ask no other reward but to love You more and more.

With a firm love, I will love You with all my heart while on earth and continue to love You perfectly during all eternity.

Amen

My Margarita

2010-09-20T20:10:00.000+08:00

Agave @ BHS makes really really good Lime Margarita's!!! And evrything on the menu is masarap and affordable!!!

Making a house a home

2010-09-20T10:56:00.002+08:00

stackable individual white shoe boxes

the shoes by the front door now look cleaner and neater

TEFAL non-stick rice cooker

makes life (dishwashing) so much easier for us

2010-09-16T21:27:00.000+08:00

Hey Everyone!

The Low Cal Café will be selling their Sugar-Free Desserts at the Sweet Sensations After Dark fair in The Venice Piazza of McKinley Hill. We will be there on all Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 17 to Oct. 17 from 6pm – 11pm.

Spread the word! We hope to see you all there! :D

Check us out on MULITPLY

And on FACEBOOK

Crazy Runner

2010-09-16T13:08:00.000+08:00

is who I am.

I am currently part of the MILO APEX Running Clinic – in preparation for my Pikermi Debut at the KOTR race on Oct 24.

I also have requested for a slot in the 2nd TBR Dream Marathon – in preparation for my Marathon race on March 20, 2011.

Its' gawd daym exciting I tell ya!!! :D

this is it

2010-09-15T17:31:00.002+08:00

It's time I cut my losses and take that leap (of faith). Too many signs. Just need to muster up the courage and go for it.

Training at its best! Let's RUN!

2010-09-10T09:46:00.000+08:00

Theater: XANADU

2010-09-06T11:19:00.000+08:00

2 out fo 5 stars

The main reason why we were sure we wanted to see this show is because Rachel Alejandro (as Kira) is in it. We first saw Rachel perform in theater in Avenue Q, and she was EXCELLENT! So we expected no less for her Xanadu performance.

Sadly, I found her disappointing this time around.

The show in its entirety:

The opening act was bland. Dry. Didn't really capture the attention of the audience. The different singing voices (of the 9 sisters) didn't harmonize well at all. Seemed like there was no blending whatsoever. Good thing here is that Rachel's voice was louder than everyone else's and theres no doubt about her vocal power.

The show picks up only at “Suddenly”. An awesome performance by the lead male character, Sonny Malone (Felix Rivera)!

And the next 2 memorable scenes are the ones of “Mellow” and the closing scene.

Performance highlights are really of Felix Rivera/Sonny Malone and of Noel Trinidad. Other than that, I felt that the performances were halfheartedly executed.

I commend the costume and props though. Well thought of and executed.

On Rachel

I'm really heartbroken based on Saturdays performance.

1.her voice sounded hoarse/raspy at certain points (did she have a cough?)

2.her body movement for dance and acting were restricted. Made me think to myself, its like she wasn't in the mood to perform that night (?)

3.When she would look at the lead male character, parang there was no chemistry or emotion coming from her.

Hence, at the end, Felix Rivera/Sonny Malone and Noel Trinidad got the loudest applause.

I sat way up front. While tickets at Php1,500 are affordable, it wasn't worth it for this play. Something I believe I could have missed out on. Maybe they should just do a re-run of Avenue Q. I'd gladly go see it again.

Movie review: Despicable Me

2010-09-06T11:04:00.000+08:00

3 out of 5 stars

Cute and Funny. But not Hilarious as I had expected it to be. It's a very good movie for kids though, because the dialogue is simple and teaches the lesson of whats good vs bad and knowing priorities in life.

Definitely could have seen it in 2D – although the 3D effects were AWESOME!

If anyone knows where I can buy a FLUFFY UNICORN, please let me know!!! ;)

Resto review: Krazy Garlic, GB5 (2/F, beside CPK)

2010-09-06T11:02:00.000+08:00

4 out of 5 stars

Ambiance: The place played music that was way too loud. I personally prefer resto's that have ambient music in the background, and not loud vocals playing and trying to prevent good conversations over a good meal.

Service: was fast! The place has a lot of servers and they are easy to spot (wearing all white). They are all also smiling and very courteous (I highlight the smiling because while John and Yoko has excellent food, I can never get over why the female servers there are so mataray!)

F&B selection: the menu is vast! And seems to have everything on it! From the resto's signature dishes to regular faves, your eyes will feast on the menu – which is nicely laid out. Large fonts. Nice color combination.

Price Point: This is neither cheap nor expensive. Definitely not cheap, but since everything we ordered was so tasty and perfectly prepared, theres definitely no reason to “complain” about the cost.

We ordered Ganoush, Beef Salpicao and Grilled PorkChops. All of them EXCELLENT!

Definitely going back for more!

Beauty over Brains

2010-09-02T15:26:00.000+08:00

This is an age old question...

What would you rather have, beauty or brains? (assuming you can have only 1)

All my 29 years of living, I was taught to value my brains. I have made it grow and mature. I am an excellent student. A hard worker. And my brains have helped me go through university under a full academic scholarship and I've climbed the corporate ladder well because i am intelligent and i continue to educate myself and learn everyday.

Something happened this year. Admittedly, it changed me. So I've kinda decided...

From now on I will cultivate my "beauty" side... and find a way to earn money from it.

So its official. As of today, I choose Beauty over Brains.

dilemma

2010-08-27T14:20:00.000+08:00

it was a tough week at work. my boss has not been externally replaced, but i've been assigned under an existing S-AVP. she's pretty old school when it comes to work style but she definitely knows her stuff. had a dilemma with her while i was updating her on all my projects. she doesn't like the style of my previous boss, so she kept questioning why things were done in a certain way. i felt like i was on the defensive all week. it was sooo draining! had two, two-hour meetings with her just this week and we've worked on a weekly one-hour meet every week until she deems that we can meet every other week nalang. nuts!

its tough balancing a full time job and wanting to go to the interviews i am being called to. ang hirap mag half-day leaves or full day leaves or to come in 2 hours late or try to leave 2 hours earlier etc. but i trudge on, because i deserve better than this work culture. really.

if you chance upon my blog and think you can help, am looking for a new job. focused on product marketing and/or events. ideally within The Fort/Bonifacio Global City area.

a heart opener

2010-08-25T08:36:00.001+08:00

What do you mean "Only in the Philippines"?
by Trixie Cruz-Angeles
via her Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=462115506281&id=1256409158

When the smoke cleared and the bodies were counted, as Mendoza's story slowly is spread to a visibly shaken nation, I am shattered by the vicious remarks brought to my doorstep courtesy of Facebook. I see words like "Only in the Philippines" and "nakakahiya tayo." Here are my countrymen, talking about themselves as though everything that had been done wrong at the Quirino Grandstand was a national trait, as though stupidity were possible only here and the only ones capable of it are Filipinos. And then, I remember with sadness that it is also my own countrymen, who, when seeing a beautiful place in the Republic say with awe, "Ang ganda dito, parang wala tayo sa Pilipinas!"

Of course P/Insp R. Mendoza comitted a criminal act. Of course the police officers and media persons and networks could have handled matters in a more sensitive and timely manner. But it also especially hurts when these mistakes are ascribed as national traits. Only in the Philippines daw. And only Filipinos could screw up this badly.

The vultures can't resist jeering and insulting. Stupid media. Stupid cops. Stupid Mendoza. Stupid by-standers. The Filipino nation is stupid.

Excuse me?

Our ancestors believed in the concept of an afterlife when many other peoples of the world were still figuring out how to make stone tools. Our forebears crossed the Pacific years before the Vikings crossed the Atlantic. They cultivated rice when many others were still living in caves. They had the first revolution in Asia that united no less than three disparate linguistic groups through a leader named Diego Silang whose wife became his successor. This nation produced women leaders and warriors when much of Europe still considered the female gender as mere chattel. My country abolished slavery two hundred years ahead of the so called New World. My country, whose history and treasures remain mysteries to its own children, cannot and should not be defined by the mistakes of yesterday's events.

And we will not be defined by this tragedy. But we must learn from it. And the first lesson should and ought to be not to add any more hurt to a nation prostate with grief. So much blood ignites so much passion. But we can either flagellate ourselves until there is nothing left of our self esteem. Or we can turn this into an impetus for change. Real change.

So, I will mourn today. I will grieve for all the victims, yes Mendoza included. I will mourn for all the ignorance that makes an embarassing display of itself in times of crisis. I will mourn for the good men and women of the PNP who feel the brunt of the national outrage, but who will go to work tomorrow and still go after the bad guys, still keep us safe. I will mourn for media persons who must live with the effects of their live broadcasts.

But after that, I will choose hope and faith in my countrymen.

8

2010-08-23T12:23:00.000+08:00

yesterday, aug. 22, mark and i celebrate our 8th month anniversary of marriage. its amazing how comfortable we now are with almost everything. our daily schedule. our weekend schedule. the division of labor at home and everything else that comes in between.

i am also most proud to say that i am now a lot more comfortable in the kitchen, as i now cook rice and steam vegetables for every full meal without hesitation. i also am more confident in cleaning the bathroom (meaning i have a process and a system of how's its done)

its not to say that mark doesn't do any chores. i wanted to also take time to get to know how to do stuff at home, since i know less than mark does (long story! :p

so for yesterday, i prepared him breakfast (rice, scrambled egg and tuyo in olive oil) and he brought my Jelly Bean to have a shampoo, wax and vacuum ;) we had lunch at Melo's and dinner at home <3

can't believe its been 8 months. its been one helluva ride so far! ;)

he's coming to manila... and i'll be at the forefront to make him feel most welcome! :D

2010-08-23T12:17:00.001+08:00

source of photo: http://www.clickthecity.com/music/?p=8733

source of photo: http://www.clickthecity.com/events/details.php?id=8614

BANNER YEAR!

2010-08-18T12:16:00.003+08:00

2010 looks like a banner year for me. A banner year for heartbreaks, that is.
Been experiencing waaayyy too many heartbreaks this year.
One and way too many.

Balancing life

2010-08-18T09:29:00.000+08:00

is EXASPERATING!

wacky weekend

2010-08-15T21:31:00.001+08:00

inspected our soon to be home.
met with the architect.
dropped off dirty clothes.
full leg and underarm wax.
went on a dinner date (on a friday night payday na friday the 13th pa so it was a bit stressful! :p
yoga.
attended my god-daughters 1st birthday party.
attended a 29th birthday bash at LAX (MOA).
cleaned the entire condo.
went grocery.
watched grown ups and expendables.
picked up clean clothes.
had dinner with Mom and Santino.
blogging beside Hubby <3

that shameful BITE

2010-08-13T13:27:00.000+08:00

I'm a nail-biter. I've been a nail-biter all my life. Contrary to what many people assume of me, I really do try to stop. And I have... for about a month... then it starts again. Nail-biting is caused by many things. I was told I started when I had skin asthma as a kid. The bad habit started there and I couldn't seem to stop anymore. It's really simply a bad habit. Gets worse when am excited, nervous, stresses, upset... you guys get it. It's embarassing, really! And I wish I could stop. FOREVER!

Just wanted to share this article I read online. Below is an excerpt. The link shows the entire write up.

You devoted a chapter of your book to helping people who want to stop biting their nails. Tell us a little more about Nail Biters

I have a deep affection for nail-biters. I believe a habit is a comfort to the soul and we all have them. If you really want to stop biting you are already 50 percent there. Read that chapter, charge on and do not go out to brunch with your mother, your rebel-self will want to bite the nails even more with gusto because she will say "put that finger out of your mouth! Surround yourself with supportive people and do not announce to anyone that you're trying to quit and then everyone will start to police you. Baby steps.

What's one thing you wish you could tell nail-biters?

You are not a terrible person or a nervous person, you are as beautiful as anyone with normal nails. Keep getting manicures and the band-aid is your best friend. Cover those bloody cuticles and resist the temptation.

http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/fashionandbeauty/fashionandbeauty/view/20100813-286431/Nail-guru-on-nail-biting-germs-you-can--avoid-and-the-loveliest-shade-and
http://www.rescuebeauty.com/

Long or Short?

2010-08-10T17:25:00.002+08:00

hhhmmm...

i just threw out my extended wear Belcon contact lenses 'coz I accidentally tore the left one... and I left my container at home... so I threw the right one na rin :p

now to choose the new set, extended wear or disposables?
(green? blue? gray? purple? LOL!)

Project D.E.A.R.

2010-08-09T15:12:00.000+08:00

Project D.E.A.R. starts TODAY!

Drop
Everything
And
Run

The minute I get home, I will drop everything, change to run attire and RUN!

I will not:
1. Turn on the TV
2. Access the internet
3. Sit, Lie down nor even as much as Look at the bed

Who's with me?! :D

Movie Review: TEKKEN

2010-08-09T08:41:00.002+08:00

Now THIS is how a martial arts movie SHOULD BE!

Captivating in both dialogue and stunts from start to end, TEKKEN keeps a simple story of select fighters at a peak of the Iron Fist competition.

Coupled with a simple yet heartfelt story on family and a love of Mother for Son and vice versa, TEKKEN keep the viewer intently listening.

It’s the perfect mix of dialogue and action, with good casting and costume.

TEKKEN received 2 thumbs up and 5 stars from me! I’d love to see it AGAIN!!!

RESTO REVIEW: STACKER'S (Burger place at the Piazza)

2010-08-06T14:39:00.000+08:00

one star out of 5

the place offers burgers w/ fries and a few other stuff in between. My take on the food and service:

1.the burger – same size as Brother's Burger BUT the patty is DRY. So they try to compensate with adding a lot of sauces and syrups and other greens and toppings. But it doesn't help. Poor burger patties.

2.The service – the servers are mataray looking. And funny part, if you order a meal (burger, fries and drink) they deliver them to your table one at a time (drink first, then fries, then burger :p

3.you can't upsize your drink

4.the carbonated drinks have no spirit in them anymore. So my coke was just pretty much black water with sugar. No bite at all.

5.The fries were good though. Perfect sized strips and nicely fried.

6.When we asked for our bill, they just gave us this slip of paper. No bill holder.

Would I go back? NO. I'd definitely prefer to go to Brother's Burger over Stacker's!