My Own Little Space

happy December!

2010-12-01T10:07:00.003+08:00

It is the first day of December... and we are down to twenty-four days before Christmas. While I may not have a Christmas party to attend to at work, (another first in thirteen years) I am pretty sure that there would be quite a few with friends.

Oh, I love this season! And this year is a special one because we will have a taste of how Christmas is like in the land down under, which they say is the continent of contrast. Yes, it is gonna be a our first Christmas in summer!

spam

2010-10-18T18:42:00.002+08:00

I have totally forgotten about my blog, until Angeli sent me a message saying there's a post that's more likely to be a spam. Those who have been following my blog would know what kind of stuff (non-sense or otherwise) I am posting. I'm sorry for not closely watching after this site that it got spammed.

And thanks, Anj, for taking notice of it.

it's like music to my ears

2010-05-18T17:48:00.003+08:00

Today at the restaurant were two Filipino customers. They were surprised when I suddenly spoke to them in Tagalog (my native dialect), and bursted out "Filipino ka pala! (You're a Filipino)" They said that I look like some other Asian race. I told them that they, too, look more Chinese than Filipino, and I wouldn't have known had I not heard them speaking in Tagalog.

It is not very often that we have Filipino customers come by. In fact, it was the second time only. The first one I met there is a first cousin to the Sottos in Manila; known both in the showbiz and political arena. In a place where people speak different languages, and English of different accents, it is relaxing in a way to hear my native language being spoken. It feels like home! :)

birthday with shelves of books

2010-05-17T18:31:00.003+08:00

It's my birthday today, and I spent it by starting on a new casual job tending a bookstore in one of the largest malls in the area. It was pretty good. I got the chance to have small chats with some shoppers. There was an old (German) man who approached and started a conversation with me. He said I sound American with how I speak my English (thanks to my country's history for that, I guess), and encouraged me by saying that I would be able to find an office job, just as I wished. He even invited me for a cup of coffee, but since I was the only one tending the store, I had to decline the invitation. It was a nice chat, I would say, with a lovely man, old enough to be my grandfather. :)

For dinner, husband and I dined at a small Chinese restaurant nearby.

I'm missing home at this very minute, yet I am excited to be where I am today.

3rd month

2010-05-13T18:46:00.004+08:00

I have just recently stopped importing blog posts into my facebook account to give myself freedom again to write about anything I think of. Family members, relatives and long-time friends seem to worry about my state when they read any of my writings that somehow, they think, reflect a not-so-good condition.

Nothing to worry about me, I am A-ok. It's been three months now since we arrived here. I would say that my circumstances haven't changed that much yet, but I am coping up. The weather has been getting colder, with winter starting in less than three weeks from now. I have joined a library, and now few pages away from finishing the first book I borrowed (The Fifth Mountain by Paulo Coelho).

Today is extra special because I have received a package from my Kuya (big brother), and even more special because my nephews sent their handmade birthday card for me... the first presents I have received for my birthday on Monday. :)

fashion tip for us...

2010-03-28T16:56:00.003+08:00

Doing good never goes out of fashion.

Let's be fashionable, let's do good!

Hope you'll have a fashionably fabulous week ahead!

you can call me Penny...

2010-03-20T08:08:00.005+08:00

For those of you who would like to know how I have been, here's a quick run down of updates.

In my previous post, I have mentioned how I like it here, having spent only a week. And now, after four more weeks, I still say "I like it here!"

At the start of our second week, I was fortunate enough to be called for a job interview. However, I wasn't that fortunate to have been hired for the position. While I felt that it was totally fine to have missed that chance (it was just the second week then... it was still time to play the tourist role), I was still hoping I would receive another call for other job opportunities.

Unexpectedly, through the network of a relative, I have gotten myself a part-time waitressing job in a Malaysian-Chinese-North-and-South-Indian-cuisine-under-one-roof restaurant. (Let me tell you that they cook REALLY great food! I am enjoying my free take-aways everytime!) This kind of job is entirely out of my league, and this is the first time I am doing this, that my mom, and my parents-in-law as well, worry that the job may be too physically challenging for me. Well, it is... but after a good rest, I am back to the normal energy level I have before doing it. My brothers find it cool though, one of them wants to call me Penny (from The Big Bang Theory, if you are watching it).

Before we left home weeks back, we have already prepared ourselves to get whatever work experience that would initially come our way... we have a long way to go, and we believe that we have a great life ahead of us. The best is yet to come... and only God knows when is the time.

So to our friends who are wondering how have we been, well, we have been great, and we are enjoying it here! We are always grateful to the Lord for making this dream possible.

Well, how about you? How have you been?

one fine week

2010-02-20T19:27:00.004+08:00

It was seven days ago when my husband and I first set foot on this land down under... and just a week after, we are already enjoying our stay, having visited quite a few places and meeting some friends.

Everything may be new... the currency, the driving scheme, and everything else around us, but we are loving it here already! Many thanks to our friends and cousins who have welcomed us here.

tick tack tick tack...

2010-02-11T19:15:00.003+08:00

With twenty-five hours left before the trip that will open a new book of my life, I want to make my presence felt in the blog world (well, at least to the three people I know who would be reading this... ^_^).

I am so excited that I am not sure if I can sleep it through the night. :) I am sure that there will be a moment of sadness as we leave our families behind, but I am also sure that things will turn out for the best.... I'm keeping my faith alive!

So, until my next post from the land down under...

Have a great time, everyone! :) God bless you!

thoughts, thoughts, and more thoughts...

2010-01-22T22:05:00.004+08:00

I have been out of work (by choice) since the new year started. However, I am still not able to do some things, which I thought I could, only if I had more time in my hands. Again and again, I have realized that determination plays a big part in accomplishing any task.

With a new book in my life set to uncover in three weeks, I know I should be doing a lot of reading to prepare myself for it. But then, most of the time, I find myself with random thoughts popping up my mind. Let me share them with you...

I am grateful that my Mama has imparted to us her faith ever since we were kids. And I am working my way to make that faith clearer and well-grounded. It helps me keep a balance in my life, in general.
I need to learn to be more independent. For more than three years now, I have always relied on my husband to drive me to places and to accompany me when I need to get personal things done. What if I need to ride a bus, a tram, or a train all by myself? Travelling will be one of my biggest challenges, that I am sure of!
I need to be more confident in dealing with other people... it is never wrong to ask questions when clarification is needed. Oh, and by the way, I have to get used to that new accent! :)
How about Mama? Who is gonna spend weekends with her when I leave? It is a pensive thought...

But I should worry no more. I know that things will turn out for the best... and at the end, everybody will be happier! The Lord is in control! :)

a day at LTO

2010-01-15T16:17:00.002+08:00

I had a gruelling day yesterday.

Having spent a few days in my mom's house in Cavite, my husband and I planned that Thursday would be my "license" day, since we could pass by the Land Trasportation Office (LTO) in Binanongan on our way home to his parents' house in Rizal. We have anticipated that it would take us half of the day to finish our transaction. BUT we have anticipated wrongly!

We were at the office around nine in the morning. I have my fully-filled out form with me, which I have downloaded from their website, together with a proof of my tax identification number, which is a requirement to apply for a new driver's license. However, I was advised that the office requires an original copy of the form and that I have to secure one from one of the windows. And so, I had to fall in line and wait for nearly thirty minutes just to get hold of an application form. As soon as I was handed the form, the person-in-charge also gave me a stub of where to go next, to an accredited center for drug testing and medical exam. I filled out the application form as I wait for my turn for the drug testing. After I had submitted my urine sample, I had to wait for around 15 minutes again for the result, afterwhich, I was advised to proceed to the next door for the medical exam. Thankfully, the medical exam was just about my BP, weight, height and vision, and no waiting is required. The doctor filled out the medical exam form and noted a condition, that I can only drive with corrective lenses. Of course!

After the drug test and the medical exam was another queue to the window where I would submit the accomplished application form and all other forms that were attached to it after the tests. The queue was so long, that even if I had already asked somebody to queue for me while I was undergoing the initial tests, I still waited for more than an hour just to submit my documents. Upon submitting the documents, I was advised again to wait for my name to be called, for my turn to have my picture and signature to be captured electronically. Good thing, it only took five minutes of waiting. After this step, I had to wait for my turn at the cashier to make my payment for the written driving test. This took another thirty minutes!

Then it was time for lunch break. We had lunch, and hurriedly came back for my scheduled written test. It only took me thirty minutes to read the reviewer and answer the forty-item test. I thought that finishing the test in little time would make the procedure faster. But I thought wrong. After the written test, I had to wait for the examiner to go with me for the practical driving test. After passing the test, I was advised to pay for the license fee, but had to wait for nearly three hours for my turn to the cashier! Finally, after paying, my driver's license card had been released. It was already six in the evening when we left the office.

It is understandable that many factors attribute to the inefficient process flow in the said office. However, I just hope that the Chief of the said extension office would leave his desk, observe the transactions, and think of the best way to better serve the people. He can also find time to read the suggestions and comments left in the box. Making the people wait the whole day for one simple process is too far from the quality service that they claim they give the people.

There's a better way to do things in that office, I hope they realize that soon.

Looking at the bright side of it, I now have my driver's license again!

Tito Joel

2010-01-08T19:11:00.003+08:00

During my childhood, there were a few of my mom's brothers and sisters who have had the chance to take care of me and my siblings. One of the most remembered is my Tito Joel... one of the kindest but definitely among the strictest, too.

It has been over eleven years since the last time I saw my Tito Joel. Yet I have never failed to ask my mom of his whereabouts. Unfortunately, she had lost contact of him. Thankfully, there's Facebook! I got to reconnect with my cousin Guerlain, and from her, Mama was able to get hold of Tito Joel's contact number.

When I learned that Mama was able to talk to Tito Joel again, I called him up myself. And the following morning, I woke up hearing my Tito Joel's voice, with his usual laughter.

It is nice to see him again. He might have been strict disciplining us, but I could say that a part of him stays with me until now. I'm sure my brothers would say the same thing as well. :)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2009-12-31T22:59:00.001+08:00

As the year 2009 comes to an end, let's look back and count the blessings that we have received, and remember to give thanks to the Lord for everything that has come our way. And as we welcome the new year, let us pray with hopeful hearts that the best of situations shall come our way. God bless us!!!

Happy new year to all!!!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T23:16:00.001+08:00

From our family to yours, we wish you a very merry Christmas!!!

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-24T17:07:00.003+08:00

For several years now, I have always been telling family and friends that Christmas is my favorite time of the year. It does not only give me a merry feeling, it also allows me to bond with people who really matter. The two-week Christmas break I have been enjoying from the company gives me the liberty to stay at home with Mama, and meet up with friends whom I have not been seeing frequently throughout the year.

This season is quite extra special though. My ASCENT family has thrown a tribute/despedida party disguised as a Christmas party. I was so overwhelmed with all the appreciation that my boss and my colleagues have shown me, and I'm sure to blog separately about that soon. My highschool classmates are able to organize not just one, but two days of get-together (26th and 30th; to all concerned, please do join us), to accommodate those who will be coming home from abroad. After 15 years, we are gathering again to spend our Christmas partIES! My husband's circle of SUPERFRIENDS (as i call them) is also having their Christmas party (on the 26th as well), and better halves are invited. My grade school classmates are also planning our long overdue reunion. It's been almost 20 years since we graduated, and we haven't yet had any reunion (or so I think!). Now is the best time! It's tentatively set on the 24th of January, and I'm really wishing it will push through.

'Tis the season to be jolly! These gatherings will surely be full of reminiscing, catching up, and fun!

I thank God for my families, relatives and friends who never forget. Let us celebrate relationships that have been built, nurtured and grown over the years.

Have a very Merry Christmas everyone! God bless you!

resigned

2009-12-08T18:01:00.001+08:00

Three weeks ago, I was drafting my resignation letter. And it was just last week that I was able to finalize and print it. However, it was only two hours ago that I was able to hand it to our managing director. I never realized that submitting the letter would be harder than drafting it.

I wasn’t nervous about how my boss would react to my resignation, because I had already informed him four months ago that I would only be staying until this December. I would admit I was really sad leaving the company where I had been working for six years now.

But things happen because they are meant to happen. I am meant to leave the company to experience more somewhere else, and for that, I am truly excited.

I can never tell what is in store for me in the future, but I can only trust that the Lord will always be there to guide me… and I just need to follow.

our timely prayer

2009-11-24T13:17:00.003+08:00

Prayer of Spouses for Each Other

Lord Jesus, grant that I and my spouse may have a true and understanding love for each other. Grant that we may both be filled with faith and trust. Give us the grace to live with each other in peace and harmony. May we always bear with one another’s weaknesses and grow from each other’s strengths. Help us to forgive one another’s failing and grant us patience, kindness, cheerfulness and the spirit of placing the well-being of the other ahead of self.

May the love that brought us together grow and mature with each passing year. Bring us both ever closer to You through our love for each other. Let our love grow to perfection.

All these we pray in the mighty name of Jesus, AMEN!

Thanks to Kai for sharing this lovely prayer to us.

1... 2... 3!

2009-11-24T00:01:00.000+08:00

By the time this post is published, husband and I are probably snoring our way through the night, while he snuggles me, as he always do for three years now.

Yes, today, the 24th of November, we are celebrating our third wedding anniversary. Time flies so fast! It’s already been three years of an exciting, sometimes disappointing yet comforting roller coaster ride.

While it would feel best to have a harmonious relationship ALL the time, the differences and arguments that pop up once in a while have helped us learn how to handle things better. We’re learning… continuously… and the love grows uncontrollably.

Whatever we have been through, and whatever storm we have survived in the past have just made us both more bonded to each other. We can just only pray to the Lord that He will bless us with more love, patience and understanding for us to brave any rain that might come our way in the next years of our marriage.

We’re just startin’, and I’m lovin’ it!

smarter than a second grader

2009-11-07T19:32:00.011+08:00

What I enjoy the most when I spend my weekend at my Mama's place is the opportunity to chat with my Kuya and his family. They have been staying in New Jersey for almost two years now, and I just miss spending time with my nephews. (Ok, Kuya, I miss spending time with you and Ate Aieh, too!) And it's only through video chat that I get to see the new addition to the family, Andie.

This morning, I spent almost two hours chatting with my nephew, Luis. It started with his stories of being chosen as a student of the month at his school, among 50+ other kids... moving to his latest addition of artwork at Artsonia... then to his latest collection of books. Yes, books! Books on National Geographic for Kids on various topics such as the space, sharks and others. He also has his Kid's Almanac for 2010. While he was eager to share what he had already read on those books, we had started this simple game of question and answer. He would ask questions, then I'd answer. Then I'd get my turn to ask, and he'd answer. Well, good thing that my PC ran SKYPE and GOOGLE at the same time without delay, otherwise, I might not be able to give correct answers. Com'on! Do you really still remember facts about ORCA? or the hummingbird's eggs? Well, at least he hasn't read yet that the highest waterfall is that of the Angel Waterfall in Venezuela, otherwise, I wouldn't be able to lead a score. LOL.

I had a great chat time with him. Next time, I'll prepare more questions, and I have to make sure I can get the answers right when he throws his are-you-smarter-than-a-fifth-grader type of questions! Take note, he's just a second grader... I wouldn't want to face the webcam and tell him "I may be your aunt and way older than you are, but I'm not smarter than a second grader like you!"

half-satisfied

2009-11-07T19:29:00.000+08:00

To satisfy my craving for chicken empanada from Red Ribbon, I requested Husband to drive me to the nearest branch after an afternoon meeting with a client yesterday.

Though I was happy that the empanada didn't fall short of my gustatory expectation (I had two pieces, actually), I was a bit disappointed with the carbonara meal that I have ordered for. I don't think that it was worth the price I paid for it. Even the palabok meal that Husband had was not good either... it was bland and the serving was small. As customers we are willing to pay the cost, and having said that, we hope that we also get the value of what we are paying for.

At any rate, I enjoyed our merienda because it was spent with Husband and my dear Mama.

Madonna Era

2009-11-04T11:50:00.003+08:00

I got this from Angeli.

Simple rule: using only song names from one artist, cleverly answer these questions. Pass it on to 20 people. Try not to repeat a song title. It’s actually a lot harder than you think.

Pick your artist: MADONNA (who else? i grew up dancing and singing to her hits!)

1. Are you male or female? Material Girl
2. Describe yourself: Angel (hahahaha)
3. Describe your significant other: He's a Man
4. How do you feel about yourself? Beautiful Stranger
5. Describe where you currently live: La Isla Bonita
6. If you could be anywhere, where would you be? Secret Garden
7. Your favorite form of transportation: Easy Ride
8. Your best friend is: Candy Perfume Girl
9. Your favorite color is: Like a Virgin
10. What’s the weather like? Rain
11. Favorite time of day: Time to Dance
12. What is life to you? Something to Remember
13. What is the best advice you have to give? Express Yourself, Open Your Heart (I love giving advices, did you notice?)
14. If you could change your name, what would it be? Dear Jessie
15. Your favorite food is: Nothing Fails
16. Thought for the day: Live to Tell
17. How would I like to die: Vogue
18. My soul’s present condition: Like a Prayer
19. The faults I can bear: Lament, Love Profusion (i know, i listed two again...)
20. My motto: Laugh to Keep from Crying

It was harder than I thought because I couldn't make up my mind on which to list. It's fun though! Try it for yourself. :)

offer is good while supplies last

2009-11-01T23:08:00.004+08:00

Tonight, instead of spending time on Facebook playing Cafe World or Farm Town, I chose to catch up on my reading. No, not of books, but of the few blogs that I have been following. And as I take inspiration from these blogs to post my own update, something I have been thinking earlier came to mind again.

Ever since Husband and I have received the news qualifying us to finally migrate to the land down under, our family and friends have been only telling us two things: 1. to spend time with people who matter; and 2. to feast on all the food we love to eat that may not be readily available there.

Well, we know that family and friends are the people that matter. As for the food, here is my personal list:

Mama's cooking, that obviously I can't cook myself or that ingredients may not be available, like laing, sinaing na tulingan, adobong salinyasi, tortang dulong, kilaw na dilis, sinigang na kanduli sa miso... and this list could just go on and on...
balaw-balaw ni Nanay Tonia (the mother of my dearest friend, Oneng) matched with nilagang upo with dalag
street food - isaw, fishball, squid ball, kwek-kwek, tokneneng, and at times, adidas

We shall definitely take advantage of the remaining months to be with family and friends, and to feast on food that we would surely miss.

it's gonna be Christmas soon!

2009-10-15T18:04:00.002+08:00

Today is the 15th of October. We’re halfway through the month and Christmastime is just around the corner. Christmas season is something I so look forward to every single year. I just love the merry feeling it gives me when I think of it.

But this time is different. As I countdown through the days before Christmas, I somehow feel a bit of sadness knowing that forty-nine days after the merry day, I shall be leaving behind my family and friends for a new life that awaits miles and miles away from home. And just writing about it brings me to tears already. It is our choice though… something that husband and I have planned for nearly two years ago.

After indulging myself with the sad thought, the excitement begins to surface. Yes, we will finally live our lives in a place we have always dreamt of, and it is going to be exciting! It may not always be easy, but it will be fun! It may be full of uncertainties, but we will surely learn new things. And as we go through everything that may be new to us, it would be comforting to know that we have each other and by God’s grace we would be A-OK!

Now I am happy again! Am I crazy? Nah! Just thrilled!

trying to be back

2009-10-13T09:33:00.002+08:00

I have just checked my blog dashboard and was surprised to see one comment to be moderated despite the fact that I haven’t been blogging for more than a month now.

Thanks to that comment because I am writing again. But what really prompted me to make a new post is the number of updates that I have been missing reading all these weeks from the very few blogs I am following.

I need to allot time to catch up on my reading and know what’s going on with my blogger-friends. I pray that you are all well whatever circumstances you may be in now.

As for me, I have been good, though there had been a few migraine attacks in the last weeks, and we had been slightly affected by typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana). I have been busy sorting files in my office desktop to ensure smooth turnover of workload until December of this year. Husband and I have also been preparing the things we need to bring when we leave in February next year. And in doing all these, I have a cycle of mixed emotions of excitement, sadness, happiness, uncertainty, and then excitement again, and the cycle just continues.

We are thankful that our families and friends are very supportive of our endeavors. And we pray that God would bless them even more.

How about you? How have you been?

thought of flights

2009-08-28T16:13:00.001+08:00

During times at work when I would like to rest for a while, I would always find myself surfing for flight schedule and fare. Husband and I have not yet finalized on the date when we have to leave this motherland, but one thing we are sure of, we are going to spend Christmas and New Year here, with our families.

We are looking for the cheapest fare, wherein the schedule would allow us to leave on a late afternoon of Friday (or perhaps on a Friday night), so that whoever would pick us up from the airport of our destination would not have to go on a work leave just to meet us up. Plus, it will give us two days (Saturday and Sunday) to acquaint ourselves with our new community.

Thinking about these things gives me a mix of emotions… I am excited because finally, the thing that we have been working on had already materialized, but at the same time, I feel kind of sad because we will be leaving behind everything that I have lived with and lived for, for the last thirty-two years of my life.

But that’s life. We oftentimes make decisions that we believe would lead us to the best of things. And in all these, we pray that we have the anointing of the Lord that we are following the path He has chosen for us to take on.

Happy 56th!

2009-08-15T01:00:00.000+08:00

to the person who loves me unconditionally... who cares for me tirelessly... who guides me unendingly...

to the person I love dearly... I respect highly...

A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Mama, "thank you" will never be enough to let you know how much I am grateful for everything you have done for us. I am who I am because you are who you are. I love you so much!!! Happy Birthday! :)

he is sick. :(

2009-08-10T13:11:00.004+08:00

This is the first time in 3 years, 3 months and 17 days that we have been together that Husband has been this sick. It's nothing serious, I hope, but he is down with recurring abdominal pain and fever.

When the person who has always been taking care of me is now the one being taken care of, I feel a bit challenged and concerned. Am I taking care of him the way I should? Am I looking after him as frequent as I am supposed to?

The bedroom he is in is just a few steps away from where I sit now. I am keeping the room door open just in case he would call on me to come to his side. I do not want to stay at his bedside for I may not hold myself from continuously caressing his face or his arms to feel if his temperature is shooting up, and that would wake him up.

Again, I hope his medical condition is not anything serious... hopefully it's just caused by fatigue or by anything he had eaten or drank yesterday.

Please join me in praying that he'd feel better really soon. He is not used to being sick... neither am I.

rain, rain go away...

2009-08-03T22:37:00.001+08:00

the weather has been crazy lately... if there's one day in August when the weather would be perfect, i wish that'd be on the 15th, because it's Mama's 56th. :)

Bull-e

2009-08-03T22:21:00.004+08:00

One Saturday morning when husband and I were driving along San Rafael Street in Mandaluyong, we passed by a man walking his bulldog. Though I am not really fond of dogs because I’m really scared of them, I found the one we saw cuddly and cute. And then I told Husband that if I were to have a dog, it would be a bulldog.

Instantly that day, Husband decided to buy me one. I felt like a kid again! I was so excited, and before I relized it, I was all over our new pet, Bull-e (name inspired by Wall-e). Bull-e sleeps with us and goes with us when we go on trips. Should we need to leave him behind, we always make sure that he lies comfortably in bed before we go. There are even times when we really talk to him as if we’re talking to a baby. We are just so inlove with Bull-e. I wish he gets to stay with us for a lifetime.

Here, see one of Bull-e’s pictures.

Isn’t he adorable?

By the way, have I mentioned that Bull-e’s just a stuffed toy???

to do or not to do...

2009-08-03T22:11:00.003+08:00

To procrastinate, as defined by Inspiration’s Word Guide, is to put off (an action, decision, or the like) needlessly; postpone.

I have been guilty of procrastination for the longest time. Be it in doing the littlest of things such as tidying my bags in the cabinet or updating my blog, I always seem to have an excuse for the delay of my actions.

But several weeks ago though, embarrassing as it may be to admit, I had experienced the consequences of my procrastination. It lead me to stressful days and nights, which I could not complain of because I know for a fact that it’s nobody’s fault but mine.

Blessedly enough, I was still able to pull it through, learning the lessons that I should have learned long time back. Though there are still bits and pieces of the aftermath of my deeds that I need to work on, I am glad that things are starting to go smoothly, being able to finish one task after the other.

Thank God for the Spirit... though it’s entirely my doing to be caught in those stressful times, I never felt weak.

love for me is...

2009-07-15T09:10:00.003+08:00

i believe that love is not just a feeling... it is a commitment; a commitment to be with the person through ups and downs, a commitment to stay loyal and faithful, and honest and sincere; a commitment to nurture the relationship to make it stronger and for it to endure trials. but should infidelity be experienced and mistakes have been done, love should also be a commitment to learn to forgive and forget. it's not easy, but i believe it's workable.

as a comment posted on Paulo Coelho's forum

i'm still here

2009-07-14T21:23:00.003+08:00

I haven't been blogging lately nor reading any of my followed blogs' posts because I feel that my hands are full of workloads. And tonight, while trying to relax, I tried to catch up on my missed blog reading... and I tell you, I have been missing a lot already. And so, I tried hard enough to read as much as I could, post comments, and make these online friends know that I'm still here... :)

I may not be that "visible" but know that I am here. :) It's time for my good night sleep now. *kiss*

take care,

work panic, blouse, shoes and Transformers

2009-07-03T16:50:00.003+08:00

This week has been a roller coaster ride of emotions brought about by work and some personal matters.

While I was busy performing my duties, other concerns from clients would just come up... others easy to address while some would take much of my time. The lowest point of my work week was when I found out that nearly 4,000 records in 93 databases could have been lost. It called for an emergency meeting, at least with a colleague friend whose department I also coordinate with. I have to admit I panicked, my mind tried sorting out excuses I can use, but decided I just had to ask the respondents to take the survey again. It might not be easily acceptable for the client, but that's the only honest way we can work around it. This incident bugged my husband, too, that he ended up inviting me to leave the office earlier to relax and see the movie Transformers. I didn't buy it! It's something that would work for him, not me. But then again, he knows best how to get me... so, he bribed me with a bit of shopping treat... for a blouse at first, to which I also declined. But he was insistent, so he added it up with a pair of shoes. And that I couldn't resist anymore. So to little shopping and Transformers movie we went.

Highest point of the week? The tech support responded promptly saying that the data have not been lost! :)) Oh! I am so relieved! Thank God.

So, thank God it's Friday! My data are intact, another blouse and pair of shoes added to my closet, and I have seen an entertaining movie! :)

Hope you have a happy weekend! :)

tweet.....

2009-06-26T10:44:00.001+08:00

I'M ON TWITTER! :)

updates

2009-06-16T14:06:00.002+08:00

In my everyday living, there would always be a time that I would think of blogging. My mind would usually register the opening sentences for my post, only to lose track of what I would really want to write about after a few seconds. And at times when I can freely write, when Internet connection is readily available, I seem to lose everything I have thought to write.

And just so I could update you of what I have been busy with lately, be it in thoughts or in deeds, here is a list of random things that keeps me occupied:

1. Life has been busy at work, but things are starting to slow down now. Yipee! :)

2. Remember the good thing that Husband and I are working on? Well, we had to prepare some documents and had to undergo some check ups. *wink*

3. Since the last swimming we had, our weekends were always spent at home with the family. The last weekend though was the most uneventful because I was down with migraine again. :( And it was too bad yet I couldn't do anything but apply cold compress on my head because I am allergic to most pain relievers. I even spent the entire Monday in bed.

4. Husband and I usually daydream of how our lives together will be when we finally get to go to the land down under... *wink*

missed you,

would this be my last take this summer?

2009-05-31T19:33:00.010+08:00

It took us around an hour and a half braving the heavy rain on our way home to the apartment. We left Husband's place earlier than usual because we would like to avoid getting caught up in traffic in case rain would pour... however, it seemed like we went head on with it! It's a good thing that Husband knows a few alternate routes, we were able to avoid the slightly flooded roads.

But driving in the midst of the heavy rain was just fine. Really! because earlier we had so much fun enjoying the sun, that Husband and I are all so tan again!

We had long been wanting to visit the Momarco Resort. It's just some minutes away from our place in Baras. We were delighted with the place. The spring-water pool is big enough to accommodate big groups of guests. Being there is like being one with nature again... it's a very good place to visit when one wants to unwind or just simply relax.

Entrance fee is at P250.00 for all aged 4 and up (day tour until 6PM), the smallest cottage is at P600.00 - enough to accommodate 10 people. They also have rooms for guests who would like to stay overnight. Guests may bring in food but with a corkage fee of P50/her for all aged 18 and up.

For more info, please visit their official site here.

way behind...

2009-05-27T18:22:00.003+08:00

Every now and then, I log onto my blogger account to see if I have comments to moderate (though I haven't been updating lately) or new posts to read from blogs that I follow. It has only been 2 days since I last checked in and I have been missing quite a lot on my reading already.

I hope to read all your posts although I know my comments would be really late already.

Haaaayyyy.... life is so busy these days.

i'm so glad he won

2009-05-22T20:58:00.003+08:00

What can I say??? Two seasons in a row, the contestant I was rooting for was declared the Idol!

I am just so happy that Kris Allen made it. I hope that his success will have NO BOUNDARIES. By the way, I think he sang NO BOUNDARIES better the second time.

it comes when i least expect it...

2009-05-22T20:26:00.005+08:00

This was supposed to be posted last Tuesday night, after I have cleaned up the house after a mini party with my colleague-friends in celebration of my birthday. It was such a lovely day that I felt so inspired and blessed, that I have written this. However, when I was about to post it, it turned out that I don't have any credit left in my pre-paid Internet connection. I had to wait until I had time again to sign in and post it. And now is the time.

***

GOD IS GOOD... ALL THE TIME. ALL THE TIME... GOD IS GOOD.

Yesterday (Monday), I received a good news, but I was not attentive enough to realize that it was indeed a very good news.

Later this afternoon (Tuesday), when my busy day at the office was about to end, the good news was pressed on me again. This time, I was confronted with the good news in total surprise.

It was around August of 2007 when Husband and I started working out on this thing, which could change our lives and our future. Every step we took, we were able to receive the results earlier than we expected it to come. But the recent good news is the record breaker. We were just expecting for a status report, instead we received another step to take on, which brings us closer to our goal. We have prepared ourselves for this step to come sometime in October this year, but it came just in time for my birthday, which is five months in advance of our set deadline.

I have never doubted God’s faithfulness, but I have learned to be patient when waiting for my prayers to be answered. I have never challenged God. Even at times when I feel disappointed that things don’t go my way, I still remind myself that God’s plan for me is always the best plan. So if a procedure is said to take a year to process, I keep that in mind and patiently wait for the days to pass. Receiving a result that is way ahead of the schedule is truly a blessing for us.

I might have not received my first birthday wish, but the second one, I believe is on its way.

Tonight’s devotion is very timely with the surprise I have just received, that it prompted me to post it to share with those whose faith are probably shaken by their current circumstances. It reads...

***

Trust God’s Ways

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways... For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts."

Isaiah 55:8-9

Did you know a lack of understanding of how God does things can wear you out? If you don’t understand His ways, you could end up fighting and resisting things, thinking they are an attack from the devil, when in reality they are an attempt by the Lord to work something good in your life.

You know God does not do bad things. But sometimes you may fail to realize that everything that feels bad to you is not necessarily bad for you. Reminding yourself that His ways are not your ways will help you trust Him even when your circumstances are hard to understand.

As this busy day comes to a close, just put yourself in the hands of almighty God... and rest in the knowledge that He is good and knows what’s best.

Ending Your Day Right

Joyce Meyer

May 19

32!

2009-05-17T09:15:00.002+08:00

The birthday blues faded as soon as Husband got home from his badminton game. It was around 9:30 last night and he asked me if I wanted to go to Tagaytay and have coffee. He said it would be nice to wait until the clock ticks 12 and it'll be my birthday. But I was already in bed, ready to sleep, so I told him that we just have a chat.

This morning, I was awaken by the alarm of Husband's reminder on his phone. He reached for it, checked it and said "Happy birthday, Mahal." to which I sleepily replied "thank you..." So, he has it on his calendar! :) Perhaps he would like to make sure that it's not gonna slip his mind. :)

We were on our way to the Church, when suddenly Husband had a stomachache that we had to go back home. And so, we're here at home, spending some of my birthday time on the Internet to thank all the well wishers and everyone who has remembered me on this special day.

The birthday blues is gone, and today is one happy birthday! Yay! I'm 32! :))

birthday blues

2009-05-16T21:04:00.005+08:00

I'm celebrating my birthday tomorrow, but how come I feel kind of sad? :((

last song syndrome

2009-05-15T21:49:00.006+08:00

Last Sunday, I had the chance to get-together with my brother. It's the first time again after several years that we were both at home. He had been busy with his career, and our schedules of coming home at Mama's place won't meet. I visit him at the hospital once in a while, but we can't really spend much time chatting. Practically, he lives in the hospital now. He is a resident doctor at the Philippine General Hospital, under the Department of Surgery. He would have his off-duty days, but most of which he'd just spend resting in his dormitory room (which is also at the hospital premises).

While catching up, he shared a song that's in his iPod playlist, which upto now is still playing in my head. LSS (last song syndrome) that is!

Here, listen to it, and you might not get it out of your head eaither. :)

Thats What Love Is For - Amy Grant

busy as a bee

2009-05-15T21:18:00.003+08:00

It had been a crazily busy week for me at work. Last Monday was a real MONDAY in its truest busiest sense. I can no longer recall how many phone calls I made nor I had received on that day alone. From coordinating training schedules and book deliveries, to consolidating training feedback summaries, I had to do the task as each one deemed urgently necessary. Following the usual "to do list" was not much of a help because there would always be something to be done that wasn't really on the list in first place. A true test of which-would-you-handle-first-the-important-or-the-urgent thinking. One scheduled meeting was even postponed at a later date due to the busyness of the day. And that re-scheduled meeting didn't push through again because we had other things to take care of in the office. The busiest of busy days!

Last Wednesday, we had taken a five-hour trip to a client to conduct a three-hour orientation. I was exchanging text messages with my Husband telling him I'd be late and that he'd have to take his dinner alone. I had double cheeseburger for dinner from a McDonald's drive-thru, filling in my empty stomach while in the car. Not my ideal dinner, by the way! I was home two hours late than usual. It was the most tiring day of my week!

Thursday was just as equally occupied as the previous days but at least, I didn't have to go on a long drive again for a client meeting.

And as Friday came, I couldn't help but wish that there would be less calls to entertain, less coordinations to make, less reminders to be set. Were my "less" wishes granted? NOT AT ALL!

But I am not complaining. The busyness of the days means that we still have business, we have more clients, I still have work, and I can handle the pressure of multi-tasking.

And now, as I look forward to my birthday weekend, I can relaxingly breathe and take my much needed break before I face yet another work-filled week!

Oh... thank God it's Friday!

mom!!!

2009-05-10T09:49:00.003+08:00

TO ALL THE WONDERFUL MOMS OUT THERE...

Myspace Comments

I wish I would be one of you really soon! :)

To my MAMA, thank you for all the love and everything else you have done for us. I am who I am because of you (the bad part is my fault though, don't worry *wink*).

You truly are the greatest mom in the world! I love you! :)

the two-way street i experience now

2009-05-06T21:41:00.005+08:00

Life is a two-way street. I know this, believe this, and experience this every single day of my life.

When I shop for something, I normally seek consent from my Husband, even at times that I have to spend for it. Perhaps, subconsciously, I would like to get his approval whether what I am paying for is worth the money or not. Or maybe, I want to know if there’s a need for me to purchase the item in the first place. When I buy something, I encourage him to buy something for himself too. That way, I wouldn’t feel guilty giving in to my shopping pleasures. :) Life has to be a two-way street.

It had been long ago when I thought of having an Internet access at the comfort of our apartment... way before I even had my notebook. And so when I received my laptop as Husband’s gift on our 2nd wedding anniversary, I thought it wouldn’t be long before I get my Internet acess subscription. But I was wrong. It took me five long months to finally have that kit. It was only then that we have seriously thought of aquiring one. Or should I say, it was only then that Husband had seriously thought of approving my need (or want, according to him) for an Internet connection at our place, where we just stay during work days.

Now I understand why he was so insistent for me to get this Internet access kit. He wanted an X-deal – my Internet connection for his CABLE TV! After two weeks of being behind our schedule, I was finally able to apply for our SKYCABLE subscription. Just like my Internet access, his CABLE TV is also a pre-paid subscription.

It was scheduled to be installed Wednesday afternoon. It was already 4:00PM and still no cable guy in sight... 6:30PM came and still no cable guy was knocking at our door. I had to call the hotline twice to verify if they had the job order placed. Husband was already feeling disappointed at this time. While having dinner, he was telling me that these men are not coming anymore. But thirty minutes after we had our dinner, a SKYCABLE truck passed by. How delighted and excited he was that he made his roger rabbit moves! :)

And now, as I quietly sit on our bed, alone in the bedroom, I am able to finally use what my Internet connection is for, while he... he is enjoying his Crime Investigation special preview on SKYCABLE at the living room.

Indeed, life is a two-way street. :)

it's the carbonara's fault

2009-05-06T11:09:00.004+08:00

I just had another trip to the toilet AGAIN.

You see, I am off from work this morning because of the carbonara I had. Okay... Okay... I had a lot. But what can I do? We enjoyed it! It's creaminess must be the culprit.

Initially, our plan was to prepare the carbonara after we had dinner last night. But being persons of low EQ (as we always call ourselves), we had it for dinner. And for this breakfast, too! And despite that thing it caused me, we're still having if for lunch... but this time it will be served with fried chicken. Hmmm... yummylicious!

Thanks to Angeli for the title. See it here how I came upon it. :)

to fire with water

2009-05-05T16:55:00.008+08:00

Every first day of the month of May, the people of Baras, Rizal (my husband's hometown) celebrate some sort of a feast. I am not aware of its historical facts, but it usually starts early in the morning with a parade or turumba. It is then followed by the pagoda festival (a float parade done in the river). Simultaneous with these activities is the one thing I really like doing at this day, people splashing water everywhere, to anybody, anytime. You can say this one is similar to the feast of San Juan.

In preparation for this activity, husband and I bought some water guns. We "fire" people with water, but only those who we know are willing to get wet (just like us!). It's unfortunate for passers by who are not aware of this feast because they got splashed on, either unintentionally or otherwise. :)

second take on carbonara

2009-05-05T16:45:00.003+08:00

Last Sunday night while Husband and I were driving back to our apartment from their place, he requested that I cook carbonara – following the same recipe as one of my girl friends did that he liked a lot. I told him that I will cook on Tuesday night.

Since he goes out of work earlier than I do, I tasked him to do the grocery for the carbonara ingredients. I listed down everything I need to make the carbonara.

Around 4:00PM, he has been calling me already. First call was to ask what he can buy as an alternative for basil leaves because he can't find any (basil leaves). I told him none (none, because I don't know what to replace basil leaves with). He asked if rosemary leaves will do, I said NO (because again, I don't know what rosemary leaves are for, and I don't know if it can actually replace basil leaves in my carbonara). Then after a couple of minutes, he called again to ask if I'm sure that it's really all-purpose cream that I want him to buy (seeing pictures of breads and fresh fruits on the packaging confused him a bit. LOL) and whether I only need 3 of those 250mL packs. And he ended our conversation with a sigh of "hirap talagang mag-grocery." ("It's really hard to do the grocery.")

Well, no pain, no gain! :) But he has to worry not because tonight, he is assured to feast on sumptuous carbonara. Hopefully, that is! :)

believe... things will be fine. :)

2009-04-26T18:17:00.002+08:00

4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!

5 Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near.

6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.

9 The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

~Philippians 4:4-9~

Have a blessed Sunday!

take care,

SMART!

2009-04-25T17:30:00.003+08:00

Well, I guess my avid followers would know what this picture means. :)

SO happy,

togetherness...

2009-04-24T11:05:00.005+08:00

This day marks our third year of togetherness... and the same day three years ago, we decided to get married.

Life is not a bed of roses, I always hear, and so is our relationship... it is not without conflicts, not without arguments, not without fights. But after every conflict, after every argument, after every fight, after realizing that we are two totally different individuals who decided to spend the rest of our lives together, we always kiss and make up. And yes, our relationship may not be a bed of roses, but just like a bouquet of pink ones, it is, for me, always sweet and lovely.

To my dear Husband, this day may not be as important as our wedding day for you, but for me, it will always be THE special day that started everything that is US.

Happy 3rd, Mahal! :)

take care,

no excuses!

2009-04-23T09:40:00.002+08:00

I'm really pissed off right now... REALLY! Come on! Work is work! Deliver what is required, no excuses!

shall we go camping?

2009-04-22T11:06:00.003+08:00

Last night, Husband and I did a little shopping. I bought two blouses and a pair of denim pants. And he got himself a pair of cargo shorts and guess what? A sleeping bag!

He's been bugging me for months already to buy us sleeping bags and a tent! For what, you asked? Nothing! He just wants to be prepared in case a need for it arises! We ended up buying one sleeping bag, just for him. I told him I don't want one for myself. But now I am thinking of buying one for myself, too! I don't wanna be left out if indeed he'd go camping. :) And the tent... well, he couldn't decide which one to get so he didn't get any. I was persuading him to buy the cheaper one because we're not going to use it everyday anyway. I feel that it's just gonna be a waste of money spending for something that will most likely end up in the storage room. But his heart really beats for the one that is more than three times as much. And until this morning, he keeps on saying he'd buy it and no one can stop him! Oh, we'll see! LOL

After walking around looking for something nice and irresistible to catch our eyes, we had dinner at Yellow Cab Pizza. We had a 10-inch Manhattan Meatlovers because Husband is not fond of munching on the spices usually included in supreme flavors, and Charlie Chan Chicken Pasta (oh, did i get the name right?), which he specifically ordered to be less spicy and hot. Between us, I am more into the spicy side than him. But it's ok, because we complement each other... spices go to my plate, nuts go to his, mushrooms on mine, lots of chicken on his. :) We enjoyed the meal!

Half of the pizza and the pasta were taken home, served for this breakfast. Yummy! :)

take care,

some time off

2009-04-21T09:40:00.008+08:00

Forgive me for not updating my blog for quite some time. After the wonderful vacation we had, I feel the need to focus my energy with tasks at work. But that doesn't mean I failed to have some time off and not have fun moments with people dear to me.

Let me start off with my high school friends. Last Saturday, we got together to celebrate Faye's birthday. We had lunch at their farm and spent the rest of the afternoon munching on variety of food. We had carbonara, lumpiang shanghai, sinigang na hipon, pork barbeque, inihaw na tilapia, maja, halo-halo, and indian mangoes with bagoong. There was not a minute that we were not eating!

And since another friend, Jannie, was also celebrating her birthday the following day, she treated us to dinner at a local restaurant called Tita El's, where we had calamares, pork sisig, crispy pata, siomai and some pancit bihon and canton. What a day of feast! I hope I gained some weight from that! :)

And then on Sunday, Husband and I, together with my in-laws, had lunch at a floating restaurant in Pililla, Rizal called Bulawan. It was my first time there and I enjoyed our stay. They provide free fishing experience to guests, which was a very relaxing activity, until our niece, Alexie was able to fish three times and Husband got none. Oh he was so envious! :)

Well, this kind of activities makes me look forward to weekends! Five days of busyness at work and a fun-filled weekend equals happy me! :)

more Bicol vacation photos

2009-04-13T13:11:00.004+08:00

While waiting for my posts, I hope you'll enjoy more photos of our Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3 getaways.:))

So, which are the top three shots you like best? I just like ALL of them! :))

did you miss me?

2009-04-13T10:21:00.000+08:00

I'm back! And I have these to share with you.

I'll write about our vacation in the coming days. Please be patient, because I may not be able to write as soon as I want to. I foresee tons of work ahead of me this week. But for now, just enjoy the photos! :)

Day 1: at the AMATER SPRING RESORT in Tiwi, Albay

Day 1: at the AMATER SPRING RESORT in Tiwi, Albay

Day 2: at the CAGSAWA RUINS in Daraga, Albay

Day 2: at the DHIO ENDHIKA SPRING RESORT in Tabaco, Albay

Day 3: at the CAMSUR WATERSPORTS COMPLEX (CWC) in Pili, Camarines Sur

Day 3: at the CAMSUR WATERSPORTS COMPLEX (CWC) in Pili, Camarines Sur

Day 3: at the CAMSUR WATERSPORTS COMPLEX (CWC) in Pili, Camarines Sur

Day 3: at the CAMSUR WATERSPORTS COMPLEX (CWC) in Pili, Camarines Sur

take care,

nice to be back here in Albay!

2009-04-06T18:30:00.006+08:00

After almost eleven hours of road trip, Husband and I, together with our parents and my youngest brother, are now here in Tabaco, Albay in the Bicol region. After informing my cousin of our planned Holy Week vacation here, the entire family was so excited that they have prepared our vacation itinerary... starting from our breakfast tomorrow, the activities we will be doing, until we leave on Saturday. And it seems that our stay here will not be enough to do all the things they have set for us to do. I am SO excited!

For now, I'll just enjoy this much awaited vacation. I'll try to keep you posted anytime I can.

take care,

Ooopppsss... we just experienced an earthquake! Must be because of the Mt. Mayon...

on a Friday? seriously?!

2009-04-03T11:54:00.000+08:00

My head is spinning, sorting out things… I feel like it’s gonna explode any minute! *sigh*

Megan is out! :(

2009-04-02T11:12:00.001+08:00

So, Megan Corkrey was booted out of American Idol. That is sad for me. I love watching her because I think she has a great personality (though I missed her number last night, agh!).

Anyway, there's still Kris Allen for me to watch. And read this... In the Q&A portion of his AI page he was asked "What's your proudest moment?" and his reply... "Marrying my wife." Aaaawwwww... isn't that sweet?!?!? :-) I think he is such a sweet and nice person! I hope he doesn't get axed next week! :-)

season of work

2009-03-30T12:43:00.003+08:00

In my five years of stay (working on my sixth ^_^) with my current company, this is the first time that our ideal schedule for post-sales support is being followed. That is why, as early as March, my loads of work has been crazy... but it's crazy good! That means we have closed deals with partners earlier than we usually had.

Now is the time when I really need to work on my time management skills. Demands from partners have been piling up and I have to make sure that each is being attended to. Sometimes it feels that I have more tasks and too little time. But I worry not! Almost everything that I need to take care of our partners' concerns are just at my fingertips. And in cases they are not, I always have people around me with whom I can coordinate and work things out with.

In times like this, I am more motivated to work... the day passes by before I realize it.

Now, I gotta go back to work! Catch you later! :)

need to rest...

2009-03-27T19:13:00.002+08:00

It had been a busy week for me and Husband, at work, separately that is. And I am just thankful that it's Friday again! :)

We're home at Mama's so we have time to catch up on latest chikkas! :)

I'm tired now, so I better logout and have some rest. I'll catch you all again soon. Enjoy the weekend everyone!

take care,

a Friday with Dada

2009-03-20T22:31:00.002+08:00

I was out of the office today. Husband and I had to accompany his Dad at the UST for his medical check up. I was not supposed to come with them, but for some reason, I did.

Well, the check up went fine. Dada (my dad-in-law) was advised not to take one of his maintenance medicines anymore (it's not really a maintenance med then ^_^), but the other one (amlodipine) was said to be taken once daily for the rest of his life. Knowing that Dada is a bit of a hard patient, we immediately informed Mimi (my mom-in-law) of the doctor's advise. I think Dada has this habit of taking his meds if he thinks that's what makes him feel better, even if he doesn't need it.

On another note, there's this funny scene while Dada was having his check up. Husband went with him inside the clinic while I waited outside playing solitaire on my phone. I told Husband to come with Dada inside just so he'd also know what instructions would be given to Dada that we need to be aware of. And I didn't come with them because, well, three's a crowd. :) According to Dada, while his (male) doctor was talking to him, the doctor was looking at Husband, that the doctor even noticed the bits and pieces of tissue on husband's forehead... even bid Husband goodbye saying "nice meeting you, Lorenz." Hhhhmmm... is the doctor gay? *lol* No, I think he was just being nice! :)

Anyway, you guys enjoy your weekend! I'll catch you again soon.

take care,

random thought: what did i do wrong?

2009-03-19T17:47:00.003+08:00

Could I have been intentionally shut out of a blog’s comments page? But I can’t think of any reason why. Seems like my name, email address and URL have been banned.

But why, oh why?

Too bad… ‘cause it’s one of my most fave blogs so far…

random thought: movie quote

2009-03-19T10:22:00.001+08:00

Kiss me. Kiss me as if it were the last time.

-Ilsa, from the movie Casablanca

random thought: i miss being single

2009-03-18T18:03:00.000+08:00

I think I got the title all wrong. I don’t really miss being single. I just miss the feeling of having the room only to myself, just as when I was still single… when I could do whatever I wished, however I wished, whenever I wished… when I knew where I have put what… when all that’s in my vanity tray were just my things and no one else’s.

But even having said that, I wouldn’t trade for the world seeing the last person when I close my eyes at night, and having that same person every moment I wake up… whose hugs never fail to keep me warm… and whose wit can light up even my gloomiest day.

Perhaps, I don’t really miss being single after all…

random thought: 24/7 Internet Connection

2009-03-18T15:05:00.001+08:00

I still haven’t gotten myself a 24/7 access to the Internet. And I just realized (just now!) that I should go get myself one of those portable broadband kits.

There are just lots of interesting posts that I can’t get enough of. And I’d like to drown myself with them whenever I’m at home (read: in our apartment) doing nothing (or wanting do nothing else but surf and read).

Should I go for pre-paid or post paid (that’s unlimited access for a fixed rate)?

eat... eat... eat

2009-03-15T15:02:00.000+08:00

The weekend is almost over. So what have I actually done that made my time worthwhile?

Friday night, we were all delighted with Mama's pinakbet (sauted mixed vegetables -- squash, bitter gourd, and string beans, in shrimp paste) and fried tilapia. After dinner, husband and my youngest brother, Jim, decided to play badminton. I didn't go with them because I felt the need to stay home and let my system digest whatever I have eaten. In short, I was so full, I had to stay still. :)

Saturday was just an ordinary day. We spent time playing cards, myself losing all the time! You can't blame me, I just learned the game few days ago. :) Then after dinner, they played badminton again. I was not really feeling well because of that female thing. ;) But I have done something worthwhile. I was able to chat with my Kuya and the rest of his family. My nephews have grown up so fast, and my two-month old niece is getting bigger each time I see her.

And this morning, Sunday, we attended the Church Service. It was such an empowering experience, a spirit-rejuvenating moment for me. I just feel so blessed and enlightened. After a week of work and being immensed in such a mad world, it's always best for me to tap to my ultimate source of strength. :)

After the Service, we went to SM Southmall for lunch. We had a sumptious meal at Kenny Rogers Roasters. Unlike the experiences we had at other branches, this afternoon's meal was totally enjoyable. We were only four yet we finished a whole of roasted chicken (loved the succulent and flavorful meat) and seven (yes, 7!) orders of rice. Take note, Mama didn't eat her share of rice. So it was just the three of us (husband, brother, and myself) finishing off. :) I was glad to have picked sides that we all enjoyed -- macaroni and cheese (my all time favorite), corn and carrots (husband's choice), potata salad (which I chose for Mama), and cheesy garlic potato (which I chose for myself too). The meal also included four pieces of muffins.

Then after lunch, (you think we're done eating already?), we had dessert at Dairy Queen. Mama and I both had strawberry and banana blizzard, while husband and bro had rocky road and mud pie, respectively. Now, you know what a bunch of big eaters we are! *lol*

Of course, after such a hearty meal, the best thing to do next is sleep. :) Upon reaching home, everybody just ran to find a nest to rest at. (I could hear husband snoring now... he's just beside me while I type this.) And I shouldn't be left behind. Time to end this and take a nap. In a few hours we'll be on our way back to our apartment again.

It had been an enjoyable weekend for us. How about yours? :)

enjoy the weekend!

2009-03-13T17:31:00.001+08:00

Thank God it's Friday! :)

Husband and I will be home at Mama's place in Cavite. We'll get to enjoy Mama's well-prepared food again. We also hope to play some badminton during the weekend. But more than anything else, I hope to get much-needed sleep. :)

How about you? How do you plan to spend your weekend?:)

take care,

i hungered... then there was food.

2009-03-13T10:06:00.006+08:00

I missed watching TV last night. I was so sleepy that I hurriedly prepared for bed upon arriving home from work.

Don't be too concerned... I didn't skip my dinner. :) I could never afford to do that! I'm such a heavy eater. I guess my body just doesn't show it. Lucky me!

Husband fetch me from work, as usual. And while approaching the Mandaluyong City Hall, we were caught up in heavy traffic. I had been complaining of hunger since I rode the car, and knowing that we still had to cook rice, which would take 10 to 15 minutes more with a cooker, we decided to grab a bite at a fast-food chain, Jollibee. We were stopped in traffic across it, so it just took a minute to park and have a meal. We both had 1-piece chicken joy (fried chicken), and 2 orders of rice. Yup! two orders of rice for each of us. LOL... I told you, I was hungry! :) Did I mention I was also irritable at that time? I always am when I am starving. Sorry.

After dinner, we drove straight home. I didn't mind missing an episode of American Idol, I've already read on the Internet what I was gonna see anyway. And I'd sure do like it! (Jasmine and Jorge being axed out.)

alarming news

2009-03-12T18:10:00.003+08:00

Every night after work, the first show we catch up at home is the local news. Although there would be a few good news to hear, it's almost always that we would be overwhelmed by the bad ones.

I think it was the other night when it was reported that a six-year old girl was raped by an eleven-year old boy! There were even news of minors guilty of murders.

Could you believe that??? Where are the parents of these young people? How come they could bravely commit such hideous acts?

Sad... but true. A lot of bad things are now getting worse. And unless majority of the people would be responsible enough to be always mindful of their actions, the place we live in may no longer be safe for our children to come.

I have always believed that parents play a vital role on how their children would become in the future. So, to all the parents out there, I make this plea for you to always make yourselves the best role model your kids may have. And always find time to spend moments with them that they would learn the good values they should learn. Let's stop crime, and let's start in our homes.

farewell, Master Rapper

2009-03-11T12:15:00.003+08:00

March 6th, I received a text message from my brother saying "It's been cold summer nights..." So, I thought, he was just having yet another episode of what he called birthday blues. He celebrated his 30th birthday yesterday. But then he said, "it's gonna be cold summer nights, patay na si Francis M. (Francis M. is dead)."

Francis M. is the Philippines' Master Rapper. And the local music industry is definitely saddened by the news of his death. Click here for more info about him.

I am no big fan, but having grown to his music when I was a teen, I would admit that I myself was saddened by his loss to his battle of leukemia. And today, as his family lay his cremated body together with his parents’, I join everyone in praying that his soul may rest in peace.

Tuesday... too early for my headache

2009-03-10T18:23:00.003+08:00

Towards the end of the day, my head started to ache and I was feeling so sleepy. I was not able to finish all that I have jotted down on my TO DO list for the day, but I can say I was able to accomplish the urgent tasks at hand.

Tomorrow, I expect to get done with my remaining work and take on the new ones.

I should be doing better... I'm positive on that! :)

a different Monday

2009-03-09T18:21:00.004+08:00

It was my usual tardy Monday, but contrary to the previous days, I have been more productive at work. And I'm glad about it!

Let's see if it could carry on until the rest of the work week, then the rest of the month. :)

Happy birthday, Mahal!

2009-03-07T00:02:00.004+08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY BELOVED, MAHAL!

I didn't plan anything big for his special day, because he couldn't make up his mind how he'd want to celebrate it anyway. Maybe because, this is the first ever birthday that he has to celebrate without his twin brother around (who is in Dubai, working).

Talking about first times again, huh?

In whatever way he'd celebrate, I hope he'll have fun.

So to you my Mahal (translated: Love), I pray for all the best things to come your way. Iloveyou!

yes! she's in!

2009-03-06T22:53:00.003+08:00

I'm glad that Megan Joy made it to the Top 13 of the American Idol Season 8. :)

But I wonder though how Jasmine Murray made it through. I don't think she gave the song Reflection any justice. The singing voice for Fa Mulan was that of Lea Salonga's, and I couldn't help but compare how Murray sang the song with that of Salonga's.

It's just me though... my personal opinion. :)

crazy!

2009-03-06T21:58:00.007+08:00

It had been a crazy week for me!

I have 18 posts from my blog roll, which I haven't read yet, excluding those under my subscription in reader! What happened?

Well, again, my week had been crazily lazy. I was out of the office most of the time and I had not been feeling very well either. I was cramming, working my butt off for a training, and had prepared my presentation for our company meeting at home the night before, which happened for the first time. (There's always the first, as I always tell myself!)

And then Thursday night, while out on a dinner with my husband, I had mistakenly used the MEN'S ROOM! Agh! Of course, it was obvious it's the MEN'S ROOM, (it has a urinal inside, which, I justified the existence by thinking some mothers would accompanhy their young sons when they peeh, thus the urinal inside the "ladies' room"). However, on the signage on the wall leading to the rooms, it displayed men's on the left and ladies' on the right, and so I entered the room on the right, (my mistake) without looking nor double-checking what's posted on the door. I only realized my huge mistake when, upon exiting the door, a boy around 7y/o, looking for the MEN'S room had confusingly read what's posted on the door... MALE. So when I went back to our table, I told Husband that I think I used the wrong room. And even if we saw another man got inside the room I just left, he still checked what's posted on the door. And there, confirmed for the third time, I made a huge, embarrassing mistake. Good thing, the room was designed to be occupied by one person at a time.

Well, they can just think I'm gay. *lol* Crazy!

and the Award goes to...

2009-02-26T09:30:00.004+08:00

Heather's was one of the newest blogs I'm following. She's busy running a house of three kids with her husband. But she still does wonderfully in updating her blog, posting pictures of the day. I love her digital scrapbooking too!

And she is giving me this award. :) Thank you, Heather. I hope we can know more about each other. I wish you all the best. :)

And now, I'm passing on this award to Amelia, Angeli and Sinta - the three ladies who have inspired me to continue blogging. :)

our valentine date: more pictures

2009-02-24T17:06:00.003+08:00

I know this has been long overdue, but I hope you'll still be excited to see the pictures taken during our early summer outing with friends and their families.

We surely had a great time. It was physically tiring, but we all had a great fun time. :) More than ever, my friends and I are seeing each other often, planning one activity after the other... I'll keep you posted on what comes next after this. ;)

our valentine date

2009-02-20T23:22:00.007+08:00

Partners in love, in fun and in adventure.

Tagaytay Zipline, 300ft. off the ground.

As sure as the sun sets, our love will always stay.

please come back for more Valentine get-away pictures.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T00:00:00.000+08:00

Your Love - Jim Brickman

It's not the flowers, wrapped in fancy paper
It's not the ring, I wear arround my finger
There's nothing in all the world I need
When I have you here beside me, here beside me

*So you could give me wings to fly
And catch me if I fall
Or pull the stars down from the sky
So I could wish on them all
But I couldn't ask for more
'Cause your love is the greatest gift of all

In your arms, I found a strength inside of me
And in your eyes, there's a light to guide me
I would be lost without you
And all that my heart could
ever want, has come true

*So you could give me wings to fly
And catch me if I fall
Or pull the stars down from the sky
So I could wish on them all
But I couldn't ask for more
'Cause your love is the greatest gift of all

You could offer me the sun, the moon,
And I would still believe
You gave me everything
When you gave your heart to me

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Feel the love!

i'm so excited!

2009-02-13T06:13:00.003+08:00

We're set to go! My dearest friends are on their way now. Husband and I will be meeting them up at Tagaytay, then we'll go straight to Taal, Batangas for our much-awaited outing!

But since it's a little bit early to prepare breakfast here at home, and I would not want to bother my folks, we'll drop by McDo for our breakfast... hash brown, anyone? :)

the weekend that was...

2009-02-11T12:10:00.000+08:00

Remember the same day last week when I said I just wanted to stay home? Well, I guess the fun I had last weekend changed that mood instantly!

Last Saturday, Husband and I got up a little later than usual, allowing us to regenerate ourselves for the weekend activities. Saturday morning, we went to one of his auntie's place and I got to play with the nephews and niece (aged 1 to 4). It felt good to be around these kids, who by the way do not normally talk to us. :) But last Saturday was different, as one of them grabbed me by my hand asked me to color some drawings with them. Honestly, I had so much fun, I didn't want to go home. :)

Then in the afternoon, good thing one of the househelpers didn't show up, I got to cook for family dinner. And then Sunday, we were out with my friends again to celebrate Karen's mom - Nanay Lolet's 50th birthday. And since my Mama and Nanay Lolet are also friends, Mama came over to spend the day with us.

It was a fun, fun, fun weekend! And now I'm looking forward to the fun, fun, fun weekend cum Valentine outing with friends! :)

happy fifth: the celebration!

2009-02-11T12:00:00.001+08:00

Remember I posted last month that I just turned five? Last Monday, we had a small celebration in the office for us employees who have been with the company for five long years.

Here are a few shots to share with you:

With my boss as he handed me his token of appreciation...

...which is a sophisticated wrist watch. I love it! :)

Rona, myself, and William, celebrating our fifth year in the company

with everyone else, who later enjoyed our small feast. :)

the celebrator not joining the celebration

2009-02-11T11:30:00.005+08:00

Yesterday, we were informed that a friend can't join us in our valentine date. I got the news through a text message. Not knowing how to react, or should I say, I don't know if I should tell her how I truly feel about it, I just kept silent, didn't send a reply.

I would like to believe that we have set that early get-together for her. Had it not for her, we could have planned it at a later date, in a better place. But then again, no one knows this would happen. She has compelling reasons not to join us. And because we have already made our reservations, the outing will push through as planned. We will still have the best of fun, wishing however, that she could still be with us.

Happy weekend!

2009-02-06T22:05:00.003+08:00

It's Friday night. Thank God it is!

I can use the weekend to learn something new, update my cyberhomes, and catch up with the people I've been missing so much now.

So, to everyone, I wish you all a very happy weekend!!! :)

Photo Tagged

2009-02-04T12:45:00.007+08:00

I found this tag from one of the blogs I chanced upon (that I am now following ^_^). Nope, she didn't tag me. I bet she didn't know I exist, until I asked permission to "steal' her tag (and now she's following me too). *lol* Thanks Heather!

So here's how it works: go to your Picture Folder on your computer or wherever you store your pictures. Go to the 6th Folder, then pick the 6th picture in that folder. Post that picture on your blog and the story that goes along with the picture. Tag 6 other people that you know to do the same thing and leave a comment on their blog or an e-mail letting them know you chose them.*

And here's my photo:

This one was taken in 2007 when husband and I were just in our 8th month of marriage. We had our family post-summer getaway at La Luz Beach Resort in Batangas. This was after our super goodah buffet lunch at the resort. And this shot was courtesy of my nephew Luis, who was only 5 at that time. :)

Now, it's your turn! :) I'm tagging: Agnes, Aims, Angeli, Mikoy and Sammie, Sinta, and Rod.

(* got it here)

i wanna stay home... :((

2009-02-04T11:24:00.001+08:00

What is wrong with me? I can't focus at work, thus I can't work! I have much to do but I can't seem to have the zest to do them!

I just wanna stay home, clean the house, tidy up all things neatly, and cook some good food.

The housewife in me is screaming to let her out and let her be!

Welcome, February!

2009-02-02T11:07:00.003+08:00

First month of the New Year had passed. And how did I do with my resolutions? Well, in some aspects I did fine, but in others... I failed miserably!

Well, there are still 11 months to go. I can still do better, right? (That's the spirit!) :)

it's the Magic 6 again!

2009-01-31T17:14:00.007+08:00

Minutes past 5PM. And it's only now that I'm totally awake and back in my senses.

We had a little celebration last night at a friend's house. All six of us are finally back together again to celebrate the birthday of Oneng and Lisette - who, after missing out on a few get-togethers over the holidays, was able to join us. Nothing beats the fun of the Magic 6! :) We're still the old crazy bunch of high school girls we used to be!

(sitting L-R) Lisette, Jac, Faye; (standing) Oneng, Kai, Jannie

kainis ha!

2009-01-30T16:25:00.002+08:00

Beware if I'm talking too nicely and in a slow manner, because that doesn't really mean I am being nice, but that I am starting to be pissed off. Got it??

yey! they've found me! and i found 'em too!

2009-01-29T09:41:00.003+08:00

It's been a while since my last post. It's not because of lack of topics to blog about, but rather lack of enthusiasm to write... well, sort of. But! I can't let this one pass. I feel good whenever I find comment/s to be moderated displayed on my dashboard. And knowing that I only have three souls religiously checking my blog (or so I thought ^_^), I feel kind of excited to have received two comments from two new blog hoppers who happened to have found my site. Yey! But more than anything else, I'm more excited that I have additional blogs that are interesting to follow.

Thanks to Agnes and Mikoy, I am writing today. :)

a valentine date

2009-01-26T15:45:00.001+08:00

Since the last quarter of 2008, my high school friends and I have been seeing each other more often than we used to in the past 14 years. Whether it's just the six of us girls, or with our husbands, or in some occasions, with kids tagging along, we always enjoy our time doing what we do best, chatting to the max while eating! :) And during our gatherings, it's good to know that my friends' kids (there's a total of 7 of them already) get along well, and so our husbands. The friendship extends to our families, too!

Sadly, one of us will soon be leaving to join her husband in Dubai. But before she leaves, we have already planned our barkada-family early summer getaway in Batangas this coming February 13th and 14th. It's a Valentine date for us, too! :) This has to be one of the merriest get-together we'll have this year with us girls complete in attendance.

my paper boat and the Internet

2009-01-24T23:10:00.004+08:00

I just had a video call with my Kuya who is in NJ. It was nice to see the whole family while the kids were finishing off their breakfast. I even got the chance to see our Baby Andie, too.

While chatting, Kuya was making some paper airplanes for the kids. Then suddendly, Luis the eldest of Kuya's three children asked for a paper boat. Well, I didn't know my Kuya doesn't know how to make one. :) Good thing we're on chat, I was able to show Luis how to fold paper into a boat!

It's good to know that despite the distance, we can still spend time and share fun things together. :)

happy couples

2009-01-22T15:00:00.004+08:00

I chanced upon this message and thought of posting it here...

5 Things That Happy Couples Do Everyday:

Talk to each other
Flirt with one another
Share a fun moment
Share a silent moment
Give each other space

Husband said we got a check for each item. :) And I agree!

the truth about my headache

2009-01-22T08:55:00.004+08:00

Last Tuesday night, I was having one of my worst migraine attacks, that it made me cry and kept me awake for a while. :( I was in so much pain that I had become so selfish not to consider that Husband needed to sleep for an early work the following morning. I nagged Husband on how uncaring he was to not even offer anything that could have given me relief. And so he said he'd take me to the hospital, so that once and for all, we'd know what is causing this terrible headache. (Oh! I already know! Mine is a case of hormonal migraine.) I disagreed, for I know i would just be prescribed with pain relievers, to which I'm highly allergic. And since I have ran out of stock of paracetamol (Biogesic), the only medicine I could safely take, I just asked him to go out and buy me some. It was around 11PM at that time.

And last night, while watching some videos, Husband complained of headache. And I told him, that he's just having it to experience what it's really like to have a headache, so the next time I'd be in such pain, he'd totally understand my situation. And know what he said? He said, "No, I'm having my headache now because last night when you were in pain, I just prayed that I'd rather have that headache than you suffering from it." Aaaaawwwww!!! Sweet!!! He said he felt a little bad that night when I told him that he didn't seem to care, because truth is, he'd rather trade places with me. And yes, he's right when he said just because I can't see anything done means nothing is really being done. :)

my orangutan

2009-01-20T09:45:00.004+08:00

Ok, I broke my promise, but not without a compelling reason... I was down with migraine (again!) yesterday. :(

So, here is my orangutan project, which I have done some ten years back, I think. :)

to craft or not to craft...

2009-01-18T16:03:00.005+08:00

While I was searching my pile of bags for something that I can use as my make-up kit, I accidentally found the cross-stitch project I had long been looking for!

This is my orangutan project, some ten years ago, I think. And I guess, this will be my biggest cross stitch project for now. Remember, I am still not done with that tiny Tweety bird I was so excited finishing few months back. And it made me realize that I am no longer as patient nor as passionate with this craft as I thought I was. :(

Perhaps, I should go for crafts that would not be too time-demanding... something that I can see the output in less time... something like... cooking? :)

Oooppsss... photo of the orangutan project to be posted tomorrow, I promise! :)

crazy Net

2009-01-18T15:49:00.004+08:00

My Internet connection over the weekend had been crazily on and off. It was frustrating because I was not able to chat with my Kuya for long. The video call was all lagged up and communicating was rather irritating than exciting. (I was irritated with the connection and not with my Kuya, I hope I made that clear. ^_^) Nevertheless, it was still good to see them online, including the newest addition to the family, our Baby Andie! She's growing more adorable each day, getting prettier and prettier like her Tita. *ahem!* :)

what a ride!

2009-01-15T12:52:00.010+08:00

During the Christmas holidays last year, I was able to experience something for the first time... a motorbike joy ride that lasted for six hours!

Last December 27, Husband and I joined the fun run sponsored by ERBA (Eastern Rizal Bikers Association), where he is a founding officer. The group met at a gasoline station in Tanay, Rizal at seven in the morning. From there, we went our way to Infanta, Quezon.

During the ride, the group was led by the President, and the rest followed in file. On the average the group was just running on a speed of 60kms/hour. It was a safe, leisure drive trip for everyone except the Marshall. The Marshall is a biker who is usually at the end of the file, but drives faster every now and then to check on the group or deliver a message to the leader. The leader for any run like this must have quick reflexes. He (or she, why not? ^_^) should be able to timely direct the rest of the group when they need to slow down or speed up, or avoid some obstructions on the road. The leader does this using hand or foot signals. The member at the back of the leader then passes the same signal, and the other members do the same, until the signal reaches the end. And this is done quickly, of course, while driving.

If the group had signals, Husband and I had our own too. I was his backride (I don't know yet how to drive a motorbike) and talking was not easy to do because we were both wearing helmets. A knock on his helmet from me meant that I was feeling sleepy; tap on my knees from him meant "hold on tight, we'll run faster"; a hug from me meant I was already feeling tired and my back needed some slouching; and a caress on my leg from him meant to ask if I was just fine and still enjoying the ride. But more than the signals to check on each other, Husband also made some signals telling me to check on the other bikers behind us. It was one of the best values I’ve observed in the group: care for other members as you care for yourself.

We reached our destination in Infanta, Quezon at around lunch time. But the group decided to move to Liliw, Laguna, in one of the group’s most visited resort. So, immediately after having our lunch, we headed to our next destination. It took another two hours or so to get there. There we stayed overnight, had a dip in a freezing-cold pool, then went back home after our late breakfast.

I would say that this is one of the most amazing experiences that Husband and I had together so far... several hours of riding too closely together, trusting each other to move in the way the other did, and him allowing me to a world which originally was only his.

Now, we look forward to another joy ride, this time to Baguio!!! And that’ll be another story for everyone… :)

hear ye! hear ye!

2009-01-13T10:02:00.005+08:00

For the longest time, I have been the only princess in the family (being the only girl among four siblings). But at 10:38AM of the 12th day of January this year, after 31 years of my existence, I have been dethroned! A new princess was born! :)

Much to our delight, my Kuya's third child is a girl.