"Making happy and unexpected discoveries by accident."
One magical night, Jonathan met Sara. He was in love at first sight, but Sara believed in destiny. She would choose him, but only if they were destined to be together. Now, after 10 years, Jonathan and Sara have 1 last chance to find out if what might have been, could still be. When love feels like magic you call it destiny. When destiny has a sense of humor, you call it “Serendipity.”
Love and fate combined will just come at the right time and the right place. You just have to believe in it. :-)
Friday, December 11, 2009
Monday, December 7, 2009
Meet Ethan
Who would forget this cute face? Not me, definitely!
The Chicago guy, who auditioned for X Factor series 6. Impressed the judges and audience with his version of 'Use Somebody' by Kings of Leon. He made it to the bootcamp, but not in the live show! Too, bad!
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Who is my 'X Factor'?
Who do you think will win this season's X Factor? Who do you think got the 'x factor'?
Today's week 9 already for the 4 remaining contestants to showcase their talents, so to speak. As we know, it's not any more a question of talent but likely of charisma or as the show's title suggests, the 'x factor'. But, what really is 'x factor'?
Danyl Johnson. Who would forget his phenomenal audition that made all four judges on their feet and the rest of the live crowd go crazy about him after his impressive version of 'With a Little Help from my Friends' by The Beatles. And because of that, I followed through. Cheryl thinks he's cocky. But still, he is Simon's favorite, obviously.
Stacey Solomon. The only one left from the Girls category. Many love her because she has a humble personality and her voice is simply amazing like already a diva. What I can comment about her is her lack of versatility. She really can sing but perform, doubt comes in. I hope she can totally come out from her Jazz genre comfort zone and move her butt around the stage.
Joe Mc Elderry. I love him. Vocally, he is the best amongst the contestants. He has the best vibrato quality. He has a very humble personality, too. I won't be surprised and won't contest if he will win in the end. This is my favorite performance of him plus I love the Journey song. I started to love the song when I heard a version from GLEE (tv series), which I really loooove.
Olly Murs. The performer of this series. His own moves are genuine, natural and believable. Not trying too hard and awkward. Vocally, he is good also and is a 'Robbie Willians' in the making. Cosnidered as the 'dark horse' by Simon.
Going back to the question, what is 'x factor'? Apart from talent (of course), i think it is the likability of one's personality and charm without trying too much effort that will make him/her fake. Obviously, if you're not likable even if you have the belter voice, you will not even pass through the audition. After all, the votes of the people matter.
So, the question is: If I'd be able to pick up the phone and vote, who would i vote for? Honestly, they all deserve to win. They all have the x factor that the show is looking for. I won't contest if the poll result will show any of their names.
Okay, okay!!! I'll pick up the phone and vote for Danyl Johnson and (or) Joe Mc Elderry. Sorry, I'm really quite confused between the two, but it's gotta be either of the two.
Today's week 9 already for the 4 remaining contestants to showcase their talents, so to speak. As we know, it's not any more a question of talent but likely of charisma or as the show's title suggests, the 'x factor'. But, what really is 'x factor'?
Danyl Johnson. Who would forget his phenomenal audition that made all four judges on their feet and the rest of the live crowd go crazy about him after his impressive version of 'With a Little Help from my Friends' by The Beatles. And because of that, I followed through. Cheryl thinks he's cocky. But still, he is Simon's favorite, obviously.
Stacey Solomon. The only one left from the Girls category. Many love her because she has a humble personality and her voice is simply amazing like already a diva. What I can comment about her is her lack of versatility. She really can sing but perform, doubt comes in. I hope she can totally come out from her Jazz genre comfort zone and move her butt around the stage.
Joe Mc Elderry. I love him. Vocally, he is the best amongst the contestants. He has the best vibrato quality. He has a very humble personality, too. I won't be surprised and won't contest if he will win in the end. This is my favorite performance of him plus I love the Journey song. I started to love the song when I heard a version from GLEE (tv series), which I really loooove.
Olly Murs. The performer of this series. His own moves are genuine, natural and believable. Not trying too hard and awkward. Vocally, he is good also and is a 'Robbie Willians' in the making. Cosnidered as the 'dark horse' by Simon.
Going back to the question, what is 'x factor'? Apart from talent (of course), i think it is the likability of one's personality and charm without trying too much effort that will make him/her fake. Obviously, if you're not likable even if you have the belter voice, you will not even pass through the audition. After all, the votes of the people matter.
So, the question is: If I'd be able to pick up the phone and vote, who would i vote for? Honestly, they all deserve to win. They all have the x factor that the show is looking for. I won't contest if the poll result will show any of their names.
Okay, okay!!! I'll pick up the phone and vote for Danyl Johnson and (or) Joe Mc Elderry. Sorry, I'm really quite confused between the two, but it's gotta be either of the two.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Dahilayan Adventure Park
My homeland's very own.
Longest in Asia.
Extreme adventure and fun.
Zip line and fly like a superman.
In a cool breeze in the highlands of Bukidnon.
This is just what I need for a break. And this is what excites me in my homecoming this December! Woohoo!!! I'm so excited to fly!!! Can't wait to go home!
If interested, just visit their website at: http://dahilayanadventurepark.com/index.php
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Oprah's show's 24th season kick off
Have you heard that Oprah's show will soon end in 2011. I did hear about that. It's a sad news because I like Oprah a lot. She is an epitome of a strong and successful woman who withstood poverty, early-life tradegy and racial prejudices. If u happen to know her story, who would think she will achieve such life-turning success.
Although, I wouldn't have the opportunity to watch the show on an episode by episode basis (I'd be lucky if I can watch in Youtube, each and every episode), it's a sad thing to hear. I'd be happy if those were only rumors but on 'November 19, 2009, Harpo announced the show would end in 2011.'
If there would be more affected by this, it would have to be those die-hard supporters and live audiences, who will really miss the show's generosity. Say, all audiences will receive each a car. Unbelievable. I wish I was one of them.
Heheh!
By the way, I soooo love the Peas!!! Nothing compares!!!
Will.i.am, Fergie, Apl.de.ap and Tabboo...ROCK!
Monday, November 30, 2009
He's just NOT that into you
A girl will never forget the first boy she likes
Even if things will not quite work out
But usually, someone is there to offer words of wisdom
And there it is...
That's the beginning of our problem
Do you know what that means?
We're encouraged, programmed to believe
That if the guy acts like a total jerk
That means he LIKES you.
Girls are taught a lot of things growing up
If a guy punches you, he likes you
Never try to trim your own bangs
And someday you will meet a wonderful guy
And get your own happy ending
Every movie we see
Every story we're told
Implores us to wait for it
The third act twist
The unexpected declaration of love
The exception to the rule.
But sometimes, we're so focused on finding our happy ending
We don't learn how to read the signs
How to tell the ones who want us and the ones who don't
The one's who will stay and the ones who will leave
Maybe, a happy ending doesn't include a wonderful guy
Maybe, it's you, on your own
Picking up the pieces and starting over
Freeing yourself up for something better for the future
Maybe, the happy ending is just moving on
Or, maybe, the happy ending is this:
Knowing that after all the unreturned phone calls
or broken-hearts
Through all the blunders and misread signals
Through all the pain and embarrassment
You never gave up hope.
Even if things will not quite work out
But usually, someone is there to offer words of wisdom
And there it is...
That's the beginning of our problem
Do you know what that means?
We're encouraged, programmed to believe
That if the guy acts like a total jerk
That means he LIKES you.
Girls are taught a lot of things growing up
If a guy punches you, he likes you
Never try to trim your own bangs
And someday you will meet a wonderful guy
And get your own happy ending
Every movie we see
Every story we're told
Implores us to wait for it
The third act twist
The unexpected declaration of love
The exception to the rule.
But sometimes, we're so focused on finding our happy ending
We don't learn how to read the signs
How to tell the ones who want us and the ones who don't
The one's who will stay and the ones who will leave
Maybe, a happy ending doesn't include a wonderful guy
Maybe, it's you, on your own
Picking up the pieces and starting over
Freeing yourself up for something better for the future
Maybe, the happy ending is just moving on
Or, maybe, the happy ending is this:
Knowing that after all the unreturned phone calls
or broken-hearts
Through all the blunders and misread signals
Through all the pain and embarrassment
You never gave up hope.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Two-sided
Sometimes...
Life is hard
It seems the other side
We owned the world
The world own us
I feel that it's great to live
I feel it's better to die
We burst into laughter
We cry a tear
I feel so inspired
but feel deceived later on
and shudder at the thought of it
Friends are there
Their shadows are nowhere
We meet people unexpectedly
We lose some suddenly
We forgive easily
but no easier to forget
I feel i'm special
Nobody cares at all
We're at the top
but what goes there,
goes bottom
We try to kill the time
that is chasing after us
Love dared by the heart
Only to keep apart
Distance away
But true love will forever stay
Life is hard
It seems the other side
We owned the world
The world own us
I feel that it's great to live
I feel it's better to die
We burst into laughter
We cry a tear
I feel so inspired
but feel deceived later on
and shudder at the thought of it
Friends are there
Their shadows are nowhere
We meet people unexpectedly
We lose some suddenly
We forgive easily
but no easier to forget
I feel i'm special
Nobody cares at all
We're at the top
but what goes there,
goes bottom
We try to kill the time
that is chasing after us
Love dared by the heart
Only to keep apart
Distance away
But true love will forever stay
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Pinoy-style Pasko
I can see the trees rustle through the cool and gentle breeze in the morning. I can already feel the gradual change of the season.
Temperature check. 27 degrees. That would approximately be 10 degrees below the average temperature of summer heat in Dubai. If you’re from Dubai, you will understand why such drop is a big deal and why just people feel the excitement like it is the most awaited time of the year. If people living their entire life in the winter-spring-summer-fall places can’t wait to get rid of those shovels, boots and winter coats, here, people, I guess, can’t wait to wear those winter stuffs and eager to say goodbye to summer. How ironic.
Anyway, that’s not the only thing I am excited about these days and in fact not the primary. Kapag malamig na ang simoy ng hangin, that would mean Christmas is also in the air. Yes, it’s Christmas! My most favorite part of the year and my most awaited holiday to celebrate is fast approaching day after another. You’ll soon wonder the countdown is over (just to start again another earth’s revolution) and days gone in a snap (yes, that’s how fast time is.)
But hey, you think that’s all? No, no, no way!
Actually, the main point for this blog is this: Babaita just called our travel agency regarding my flight booking in going home to the Philippines. Yes, I’ll be having my second vacation in perfect time for Christmas, a thing I thought I would never experience again. After two awful Christmases in a Muslim world, I’m gonna be spending it, finally, Pinoy style. That would mean, together again with family on Noche Buena, Pinoy Christmas bazaar which I miss so much, kids and adults alike, house-hopping in their Christmas carols and all other stuffs you can see in Pinoy-style Christmas.
But the mere presence of the people I love and care about on Christmas is what simply defines my happiness and what gives meaning to it. Now tell me, who wouldn’t be ecstatic about this?
Can’t wait to greet ya’ll a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!
Temperature check. 27 degrees. That would approximately be 10 degrees below the average temperature of summer heat in Dubai. If you’re from Dubai, you will understand why such drop is a big deal and why just people feel the excitement like it is the most awaited time of the year. If people living their entire life in the winter-spring-summer-fall places can’t wait to get rid of those shovels, boots and winter coats, here, people, I guess, can’t wait to wear those winter stuffs and eager to say goodbye to summer. How ironic.
Anyway, that’s not the only thing I am excited about these days and in fact not the primary. Kapag malamig na ang simoy ng hangin, that would mean Christmas is also in the air. Yes, it’s Christmas! My most favorite part of the year and my most awaited holiday to celebrate is fast approaching day after another. You’ll soon wonder the countdown is over (just to start again another earth’s revolution) and days gone in a snap (yes, that’s how fast time is.)
But hey, you think that’s all? No, no, no way!
Actually, the main point for this blog is this: Babaita just called our travel agency regarding my flight booking in going home to the Philippines. Yes, I’ll be having my second vacation in perfect time for Christmas, a thing I thought I would never experience again. After two awful Christmases in a Muslim world, I’m gonna be spending it, finally, Pinoy style. That would mean, together again with family on Noche Buena, Pinoy Christmas bazaar which I miss so much, kids and adults alike, house-hopping in their Christmas carols and all other stuffs you can see in Pinoy-style Christmas.
But the mere presence of the people I love and care about on Christmas is what simply defines my happiness and what gives meaning to it. Now tell me, who wouldn’t be ecstatic about this?
Can’t wait to greet ya’ll a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
S.O.S.
Manila is in dire situation after the catastrophic aftermath of the bagyong Ondoy (Ketsana storm). People really need a lot of help this time, shelter particulary. I have heard a lot of private sectors, including individuals in and out of the country, pushing hard and reaching out for help to the victims. I salute the them for the difference made big or small, it doesn't matter. I know that the Philippines is every now and then hit by storms, it actually is a passageway whenever a storm is born. I'm not sure statistically, but I think it happens every year. And every year, thousands of people die or displaced. Of course we cannot appeal Mother Nature to be merciful or less violent. Only we can hope that a possible solution will bring forth into surface to avoid repeat in the future. Something that will prevent high flood so that no one gets eroded and dies. Would it be possible, government? Please do something. Calling all presidentiables, vice-presidentiables, & all aspiring for government office in the forthcoming 2010 election, can you include this in your plaftform? I believe something should be done.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Hello
(from my multiply site, 27.07.09)
Whew! I feel like I'm being resurrected here. I feel like this (multiplying) is something new to me. At least, the site has been upgraded, i suppose. I see a little bit changes in the interfaces (how IT!), anyhow, navigating around here isn't much a headache.
I've barely visited my site. It’s been a while since the last time I have posted something catching here. Still don't know when I get to blog next. Seems that I pretty much lost my literary interest, if I may say. (Because) lately, I’ve been doing other stuffs and doing practically NOTHING, to say the least. It has made my vocabulary evaporate and deteriorate, and my creativity stagnant.
My life’s pretty plain right now. No drama (it’s over and done. hate it!). Not bumpy. Neither euphoric. It’s the one chapter in my book you would have rather skipped reading because there’s barely any excitement in there.
This plainness bores me and a little sense of drama is probably one of the many, many things I am lacking right now. If you are with too much emotions (whatever that emotions are) ready to burst, you find bursting them into words much easier and spontaneous than having plain emotions. It drives you. It kicks you.
I guess, I just need these kind of drive and inspiration. I mean not flooding tears on my pillow. I just need to be really, really inspired and driven, not only to come up with a ‘word-fest’, but simply to go away from the plainness.
By the way, tomorrow 28th, I’ll be 28 (how timing is that?). Not as excited though as anyone having his upcoming birthday, ‘cos I’m ageing another year yet I still have this delusion of being young. LOL! Cliché has it that age is but a number; at least, the thought makes me feel good. Happy birthday to me!
Whew! I feel like I'm being resurrected here. I feel like this (multiplying) is something new to me. At least, the site has been upgraded, i suppose. I see a little bit changes in the interfaces (how IT!), anyhow, navigating around here isn't much a headache.
I've barely visited my site. It’s been a while since the last time I have posted something catching here. Still don't know when I get to blog next. Seems that I pretty much lost my literary interest, if I may say. (Because) lately, I’ve been doing other stuffs and doing practically NOTHING, to say the least. It has made my vocabulary evaporate and deteriorate, and my creativity stagnant.
My life’s pretty plain right now. No drama (it’s over and done. hate it!). Not bumpy. Neither euphoric. It’s the one chapter in my book you would have rather skipped reading because there’s barely any excitement in there.
This plainness bores me and a little sense of drama is probably one of the many, many things I am lacking right now. If you are with too much emotions (whatever that emotions are) ready to burst, you find bursting them into words much easier and spontaneous than having plain emotions. It drives you. It kicks you.
I guess, I just need these kind of drive and inspiration. I mean not flooding tears on my pillow. I just need to be really, really inspired and driven, not only to come up with a ‘word-fest’, but simply to go away from the plainness.
By the way, tomorrow 28th, I’ll be 28 (how timing is that?). Not as excited though as anyone having his upcoming birthday, ‘cos I’m ageing another year yet I still have this delusion of being young. LOL! Cliché has it that age is but a number; at least, the thought makes me feel good. Happy birthday to me!
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
If you were a book, what are you?
If I were a book, I would be 'Eat Pray Love' by Elizabeth Gilbert. The minute I first read the book's brief description at the back cover, I instantly thought it is a nice book to read. Plus there's 'International Bestseller' on the cover. To be a bestseller must have been something to say that a book is of best quality, entertaining and reaches the heart of the readers.
The book is actually a memoir of Elizabeth's travel to three countries with names happened to start with letter 'I'. The course of her travels happened within 1 year, spending 4 months in each country. In chronological order, the countries she visited and lived were Italy, India and Indonesia. The travel was a soul-searching kind of activity after a difficult divorce that along her journey, she found self-restoration of some sort and the journey did not end without her finding the answers and happiness that she was looking for.
Elizabeth's thoughts were my thoughts in so many ways. I was stunned at how she actually put these thoughts into words, vividly. I thought she was my voice. I thought she was writing in behalf of me. I thought she was me.
What I like about Elizabeth apart from her creativeness and eloquence in writing her memoir is that she is really funny. She makes it a point that she doesn't bore her readers. And it is true, I read the book without any sense of boredom at any given moment. In fact, I did not want to finish reading it as I enjoyed every page so much.
How about you? Have you thought what book are you?
The book is actually a memoir of Elizabeth's travel to three countries with names happened to start with letter 'I'. The course of her travels happened within 1 year, spending 4 months in each country. In chronological order, the countries she visited and lived were Italy, India and Indonesia. The travel was a soul-searching kind of activity after a difficult divorce that along her journey, she found self-restoration of some sort and the journey did not end without her finding the answers and happiness that she was looking for.
Elizabeth's thoughts were my thoughts in so many ways. I was stunned at how she actually put these thoughts into words, vividly. I thought she was my voice. I thought she was writing in behalf of me. I thought she was me.
What I like about Elizabeth apart from her creativeness and eloquence in writing her memoir is that she is really funny. She makes it a point that she doesn't bore her readers. And it is true, I read the book without any sense of boredom at any given moment. In fact, I did not want to finish reading it as I enjoyed every page so much.
How about you? Have you thought what book are you?
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Being sane is insanity
1. Waiting is torturous, especially if you do not know what you are waiting for.
2. It is difficult to muster reading somebody's mind because you end up theorizing based on fleeting shared encounter. You might end up believing with a wrong theory.
3. To trust or to doubt somebody's sincerity is a dilemma to me.
4. Some people find it difficult to be consistent...maybe because; 1) they are really inconsistent by nature, 2) they are having second thoughts of the things they should be consistent about or 3) they are just into a 'mode' other than being consistent. Who's predictable anyway?
5. Why do I keep on writing when I promised not to write for a while (Because you see I write about non-sense things.)
6. Well, what can I do? I love writing. I don't care if I wrote non-sense and shallow. I didn't promise the world anything anyway.
7. I can't write when I'm happy. I usually write when I'm bothered. I am bothered a lot lately thus the blithering.
8. Behind this happy disposition and open-mindedness lies thread of inhibitions. I refuse to cry lest they think I'm weak. It is with only one can I cry a river of tears...because it is only He who can wipe those tears away to make me feel better beyond compare.
9. I wondered when can be the next time. Will there be?
10. I look forward for a wonderful conversation and then benefit insight from each other's wisdom (who's the other each?)
11. I want to be away with the fairies for a while.
12. Total surrender was spinning in my mind today. I want to surrender to HIM everything. I want HIM to take control of my life. I am excited for His blessings.
13. Smile...smile...smile...'cause there's no way for me to look better than to smile. Hahaha!
2. It is difficult to muster reading somebody's mind because you end up theorizing based on fleeting shared encounter. You might end up believing with a wrong theory.
3. To trust or to doubt somebody's sincerity is a dilemma to me.
4. Some people find it difficult to be consistent...maybe because; 1) they are really inconsistent by nature, 2) they are having second thoughts of the things they should be consistent about or 3) they are just into a 'mode' other than being consistent. Who's predictable anyway?
5. Why do I keep on writing when I promised not to write for a while (Because you see I write about non-sense things.)
6. Well, what can I do? I love writing. I don't care if I wrote non-sense and shallow. I didn't promise the world anything anyway.
7. I can't write when I'm happy. I usually write when I'm bothered. I am bothered a lot lately thus the blithering.
8. Behind this happy disposition and open-mindedness lies thread of inhibitions. I refuse to cry lest they think I'm weak. It is with only one can I cry a river of tears...because it is only He who can wipe those tears away to make me feel better beyond compare.
9. I wondered when can be the next time. Will there be?
10. I look forward for a wonderful conversation and then benefit insight from each other's wisdom (who's the other each?)
11. I want to be away with the fairies for a while.
12. Total surrender was spinning in my mind today. I want to surrender to HIM everything. I want HIM to take control of my life. I am excited for His blessings.
13. Smile...smile...smile...'cause there's no way for me to look better than to smile. Hahaha!
Monday, June 1, 2009
All roads lead to Rome
This phrase was like a post-it in the bulletin board of my mind, never fails to remind me of our planned Roman holiday this coming Eid, by God's will. Oh yeah, this post-it just made me giggle with excitement at the thought of it.
I love to travel, who doesn't? If I were just given the luxury to travel to any places at my fancy, I would definitely make my way to my favorite places, most of them situated in the European continent. There's Paris, the most romantic city as they say. Though I'm not much after of the romantic aura the city exudes or finding, for that matter, a Parisian man kissing me with a French kiss or holding hands while walking in front of Eiffel Tower...I just love the city because the city is a work of art itself. Just magnificent! There's a lot more in my list about the magnificent (sorry for the redundance) places in Europe which I guess you travel monsters (pardon again my french) are familiar of, if not been there already.
But nothing beats the Roman touch for me now. That's why if there's a European city I would have to visit first, definitely it's Rome, Paris next (Does it sound like Angels and Demons first, the Da Vinci Code next? Though between the two movies, I pretty much like latter more. What good is the former without the latter, the reason why the latter became a movie first despite being a sequel to the former novel...I think...pardon this segue.)
A couple of friends and I are planning to spend the Eid holiday in Rome. And as I said, I am really excited for this at the point of dying if this wouldn't push through. The problem with me is when I become over-excited, the thing I am excited about wouldn't happen...it gets screwed up to my dismay. This one, I've been praying hard to happen smoothly as planned without stumbling blocks along the way. So relax (Please God, please! heheh!)
All roads lead to Rome! My roommates often hear me saying this when topic about Rome besieged our conversation. I mean this has both literal and figurative meaning. Literally, of course the Roman Empire built those roads that lead to it. Figuratively, it could mean many ways depending on how you interpret it. But for me, it could only mean this way: my path is paved and headed to Rome on Eid holiday this September, the hell I care with my boss, by hook or by crook, I'm gonna be there! My feet already stand in awe at the Roman soil. LOL!
Roma qui vengo! That is, i'm not mistaken, Rome here I come!
CIAO!!!
I love to travel, who doesn't? If I were just given the luxury to travel to any places at my fancy, I would definitely make my way to my favorite places, most of them situated in the European continent. There's Paris, the most romantic city as they say. Though I'm not much after of the romantic aura the city exudes or finding, for that matter, a Parisian man kissing me with a French kiss or holding hands while walking in front of Eiffel Tower...I just love the city because the city is a work of art itself. Just magnificent! There's a lot more in my list about the magnificent (sorry for the redundance) places in Europe which I guess you travel monsters (pardon again my french) are familiar of, if not been there already.
But nothing beats the Roman touch for me now. That's why if there's a European city I would have to visit first, definitely it's Rome, Paris next (Does it sound like Angels and Demons first, the Da Vinci Code next? Though between the two movies, I pretty much like latter more. What good is the former without the latter, the reason why the latter became a movie first despite being a sequel to the former novel...I think...pardon this segue.)
Anyway...
Europe, a dream to make a reality...a place to see...a place to be..But of course, reality check, I am not that fortunate enough to do all these travel pamperings. It's okey! I'm satisfied having it one day at a time. No one bites the whole apple in one time anyway! (Does this comparison make sense?)A couple of friends and I are planning to spend the Eid holiday in Rome. And as I said, I am really excited for this at the point of dying if this wouldn't push through. The problem with me is when I become over-excited, the thing I am excited about wouldn't happen...it gets screwed up to my dismay. This one, I've been praying hard to happen smoothly as planned without stumbling blocks along the way. So relax (Please God, please! heheh!)
All roads lead to Rome! My roommates often hear me saying this when topic about Rome besieged our conversation. I mean this has both literal and figurative meaning. Literally, of course the Roman Empire built those roads that lead to it. Figuratively, it could mean many ways depending on how you interpret it. But for me, it could only mean this way: my path is paved and headed to Rome on Eid holiday this September, the hell I care with my boss, by hook or by crook, I'm gonna be there! My feet already stand in awe at the Roman soil. LOL!
Roma qui vengo! That is, i'm not mistaken, Rome here I come!
CIAO!!!
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Gibberish
Just babbling -- so pay no attention!
Hate when not being able to put emotions into words
Not because I can't but because it makes no sense.
Sad not being able to express hurt than tears
within my heart's confines
'Cause eyes couldn't cry no more.
For having no right to be mad at the situation
For having no right to get mad at who
For the indifference and insensitiveness
For falling for the wrong person at the right time
Or was it rather the right person at the wrong time?
For all the lies and cowardice
For dying to know the truth but not being able to ask
And not able to tell the other part of the truth
For not having the strength to accept what is unpleasant
For the gap and distance
There's no way to rebuild a bridge that once was burned down
For not being able to say sorry that's enough to be forgiven
For not knowing his heart
For being blind about the future
That there will be no future after all
For him who doesn't know much
Who doesn't care and realize how strong can be that love
Too late to realize
Too broken to mend
'Sorry' would never be enough
Not knowing what's enough
For hating the one you once have loved
Being hated for who you were not
Not able to speak to someone who doesn't listen
What it used to be will seem only a memory
Part of the past, never will be a present, future the more
For the pain i needlessly endure to grave (this is too much!)
Loss of someone who never once mine
Forgetting -- a daily struggle
Brooding over the past that should have long been buried in the abyss
Memories recur uninvited
Yet total abandonment never conceded
Hoping means 'hoping against hoping'
No place for every vivid for a make-believer
Swooned with denial
A promise broken
A promise of finding way back
All unfaithfully ungranted
A love that perhaps was never love at all
But never knowing what it was then
If it wasn't at all.
Hate when not being able to put emotions into words
Not because I can't but because it makes no sense.
Sad not being able to express hurt than tears
within my heart's confines
'Cause eyes couldn't cry no more.
For having no right to be mad at the situation
For having no right to get mad at who
For the indifference and insensitiveness
For falling for the wrong person at the right time
Or was it rather the right person at the wrong time?
For all the lies and cowardice
For dying to know the truth but not being able to ask
And not able to tell the other part of the truth
For not having the strength to accept what is unpleasant
For the gap and distance
There's no way to rebuild a bridge that once was burned down
For not being able to say sorry that's enough to be forgiven
For not knowing his heart
For being blind about the future
That there will be no future after all
For him who doesn't know much
Who doesn't care and realize how strong can be that love
Too late to realize
Too broken to mend
'Sorry' would never be enough
Not knowing what's enough
For hating the one you once have loved
Being hated for who you were not
Not able to speak to someone who doesn't listen
What it used to be will seem only a memory
Part of the past, never will be a present, future the more
For the pain i needlessly endure to grave (this is too much!)
Loss of someone who never once mine
Forgetting -- a daily struggle
Brooding over the past that should have long been buried in the abyss
Memories recur uninvited
Yet total abandonment never conceded
Hoping means 'hoping against hoping'
No place for every vivid for a make-believer
Swooned with denial
A promise broken
A promise of finding way back
All unfaithfully ungranted
A love that perhaps was never love at all
But never knowing what it was then
If it wasn't at all.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Nostalgia
(Pophine, Laarni, Mohn, Mace and Arvin -- behind the cam! heheh)
Posing while waiting for limousine. I miss this kind of afternoon bonding.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
One quiet day
I couldn't come out from my bed. My mind is so unwilling. Why the sudden change of mind? I was only supposed to go to office late (thanks to babaita's long absence--by this, we can always come after or leave before the usual hour) but found myself assaulted (yet again) by my enemy -- laziness. Isn't this so familiar? Surely, it isn't like a good momentum to start swinging.
My roommates move past their usual business, as I tend to my own which is, of course, to sleep as if it's a normal weekend. But hey, the week is not even going to be over! Wake up, wake up! Tsk, tsk, tsk.
I'm not sick. I'm feeling just fine. I'm just pretending to be, in case somebody in the office would care to ask. And I can't think of any other better excuse. So, please excuse me!
Now, I'm alone. And happy to have this privilege to be alone. I've wanted to spend sometime alone, in a silent and cozy place, away from my daily hassle. I even thought of looking for some retreat house here in dubai (like lots in the phils) where I could spend the whole day, not necessarily praying, but just sitting in meditation. I just recently learned and realized the difference between meditating and praying. In praying, you talk to your listener. While in meditation, you are listening to your own mind and heart in silence.
Well, at least I find the room untypically quiet now. But, cozy? Don't even think twice. It always has been a messy room (iron on the bed, hangers everywhere, unfolded blankets scattered on bed-- mine #1) that, like a hard disk on a computer, needs some kind of defragmentation. But at the moment, this would do. I only need some sweeping the fallen hair particles off the floor.
I lay a towel on the floor (couldn't find a proper mat) then sit in cross-legged position (simplest yoga position, i think), hands placed above the limbs between lower and upper legs, then start closing my eyes.
I try to feel the silence for a moment then suddenly feel eerie. My mind is uncooperative to concentrate. It's weird. I haven't really tried this before that's why I was not anticipating for a successful attempt. My mind couldn't even finally choose a time, place or memory to begin with. All I could see is that my mind is in a battlefield where phases of my own memory try to overlap with each other. I couldn't contain it, otherwise I will explode in exhaustion. With optimism, I try to give it another shot but to no avail. I can't really concentrate. Do I ever know how to meditate? Do I ever know how to listen to my own heart? I wonder why some people were so expert in this kind of transcendental journey. I really gotta learn. I want someone to teach me how to do it properly. It's not that all easy I thought it would be.
I close my eyes once again. Shift to more comfortable position. But this time, I start talking instead (I mean not talking like an insane person.) This is what I love doing, but never doing it anyway as much as I would love to and should have to. I guess, it's always the enemy's fault.
By the way, today is my father's birthday, a very old age at 75. The course of my talking resonates every part of him. Better health. Longer life. Happiness. Forgiveness. Love. Simply long live!!!
My roommates move past their usual business, as I tend to my own which is, of course, to sleep as if it's a normal weekend. But hey, the week is not even going to be over! Wake up, wake up! Tsk, tsk, tsk.
I'm not sick. I'm feeling just fine. I'm just pretending to be, in case somebody in the office would care to ask. And I can't think of any other better excuse. So, please excuse me!
Now, I'm alone. And happy to have this privilege to be alone. I've wanted to spend sometime alone, in a silent and cozy place, away from my daily hassle. I even thought of looking for some retreat house here in dubai (like lots in the phils) where I could spend the whole day, not necessarily praying, but just sitting in meditation. I just recently learned and realized the difference between meditating and praying. In praying, you talk to your listener. While in meditation, you are listening to your own mind and heart in silence.
Well, at least I find the room untypically quiet now. But, cozy? Don't even think twice. It always has been a messy room (iron on the bed, hangers everywhere, unfolded blankets scattered on bed-- mine #1) that, like a hard disk on a computer, needs some kind of defragmentation. But at the moment, this would do. I only need some sweeping the fallen hair particles off the floor.
I lay a towel on the floor (couldn't find a proper mat) then sit in cross-legged position (simplest yoga position, i think), hands placed above the limbs between lower and upper legs, then start closing my eyes.
I try to feel the silence for a moment then suddenly feel eerie. My mind is uncooperative to concentrate. It's weird. I haven't really tried this before that's why I was not anticipating for a successful attempt. My mind couldn't even finally choose a time, place or memory to begin with. All I could see is that my mind is in a battlefield where phases of my own memory try to overlap with each other. I couldn't contain it, otherwise I will explode in exhaustion. With optimism, I try to give it another shot but to no avail. I can't really concentrate. Do I ever know how to meditate? Do I ever know how to listen to my own heart? I wonder why some people were so expert in this kind of transcendental journey. I really gotta learn. I want someone to teach me how to do it properly. It's not that all easy I thought it would be.
I close my eyes once again. Shift to more comfortable position. But this time, I start talking instead (I mean not talking like an insane person.) This is what I love doing, but never doing it anyway as much as I would love to and should have to. I guess, it's always the enemy's fault.
By the way, today is my father's birthday, a very old age at 75. The course of my talking resonates every part of him. Better health. Longer life. Happiness. Forgiveness. Love. Simply long live!!!
Monday, May 18, 2009
Second year in Dubai
May 17, 2009
Today marks my second year in Dubai. Nothing is extraordinary. Didn’t know what to expect. Today, I am bound to do my usual routine. It is just another day for my shameless yawning due to boredom, except for some feigning act of work and practically another day for waiting for some sign that ‘arbour’ is still alive and yes, we still can keep our jobs.
Two years was long enough I thought I could stay in this company (dubai group) then jump to another level, probably higher. Yet, short enough, to have been able to convince myself to return home already affluent. But, yes, life is not all about having the most lucrative job in the world or being rich. It’s something more than this, I suppose.
Perhaps this page contains a recap of those things that happened and did not happen in my second year in Dubai (as in my first year blog sounded like). But I thought nothing really much I considered eventful in a satisfying way. I guess I am more drawn to writing my thoughts which you will read in the succeeding paragraphs.
Late last year, recession started lurking (again? why am I so fond about this topic?). From then on, it has become my constant enemy. Is it fair to put blame to it why things got screwed up in just the blink of an eye? Admittedly, recession has its positive side. It deserves a little credit for reminding me to be conscious on my little indulgencies, that is. No room for wasting a single penny ‘cause we never know what will happen worse future comes.
Two years of the so-called training in this company was supposed to be enough to be eligible for L1 (by the way, L1 is the visa needed to be able to legally work in the US on a long-term basis, easier and faster way than H1B). Technically, it’s only one year, save allowances for months of purely reading, trying to grasp the eccentric nature why this kind of company came into existence. That was then, of course, now it’s clear to me. That also includes, getting familiarized with terms like script, different kinds of protocols, other terms commonly used in our language, etc. and not handling actual projects.
So, we have L1 forms filled-up, extremely conscious of any missed out information, grammar gone awry and unforgivable mistakes on spelling. Otherwise, it’s a real turn off to the eyes of whoever reviewing them and likely hit straight to the trash. All needed supporting documents were furnished such as diploma, TOR and other academic credentials, including certificates of trainings and skill-enhancing activities attended, to which I have little to show (poor me, haha!). All of these in one package were submitted first to our lawyers, the process I have no previous knowledge of.
Everything I followed as told. But already having the knowledge of how badly the events have turned in the country, to which our visa was applied, I had little, if none, expectation for some encouraging results. I just let it flow according to the tide and said ‘come what may’. And true to my doubts and instinct, we received a negative feedback from our lawyers in just a matter of weeks. Yes, from our lawyers, which means that our applications did not even reach the hands of the embassy.
Accordingly, the probability that our applications get denied is too high, gambling is not an option. Once denied, I’m not sure after how many years in waiting for you to be able to re-apply. I fully understand now how the recession crippled our career path like some kind of a disease (as it had already been with ‘arbour’, hehe.) Why would people like us be allowed to work in their country, where thousands of Americans instantly lost jobs from companies closing down due to recession? Why would they hire foreign employees, when they must employ jobless locals first? Of course they needed more aid than us, rightfully. These are but some of the realities we face, of which there’s little we can do and no one to get mad at whom, including (or, excluding) my boss. A mountain of effort is needed to be able to persuade, convince or prove our worth that what we can offer are so specialized skills, they barely find from their people. But of course, we all know, this is hardly the case. I was suddenly struck with the realization that having this company as a back-up doesn’t necessarily give you an easy pass.
Two years had gone so far. So far I barely can look back with precise memory. In the span of two years, some of my perspectives in life suddenly turned to some degree, but does that equate to maturity? There’s a feeling of having to be more responsible to myself and life, in general ‘cause life after all is what we make it. I’ve become more anxious about what life awaits in my future, in all aspects that can be. This litany of weary thoughts could go on and on at this quarter-life.
But, at this point in my life I’m open to say that it is where I mostly find my peace and have learned to accept who I really am, in my immense limitations and prohibitive incapability. PerfectNESS, including a perfect happiness, fulfillment, and contentment can never ever be achieved ‘cause there is no such thing no matter how we try. I am not in an elating state of bliss but I chose to be happy, rather than hollow in misery. It is only with acceptance as the key to the patterns of this life, can we be able to move our lives on and along the way, learn to appreciate those little things that amount to joy, if not ignored.
And lastly, in the span of two years of newfound solitude and independence from my real family, I’ve never been this strong, that it was a miracle I’ve hurdled this far. This gift of strength that arose in me a mighty warrior is worth my life of thanksgiving and praise for my God, who was, is and will be my sole God, my all and everything.
Today marks my second year in Dubai. Nothing is extraordinary. Didn’t know what to expect. Today, I am bound to do my usual routine. It is just another day for my shameless yawning due to boredom, except for some feigning act of work and practically another day for waiting for some sign that ‘arbour’ is still alive and yes, we still can keep our jobs.
Two years was long enough I thought I could stay in this company (dubai group) then jump to another level, probably higher. Yet, short enough, to have been able to convince myself to return home already affluent. But, yes, life is not all about having the most lucrative job in the world or being rich. It’s something more than this, I suppose.
Perhaps this page contains a recap of those things that happened and did not happen in my second year in Dubai (as in my first year blog sounded like). But I thought nothing really much I considered eventful in a satisfying way. I guess I am more drawn to writing my thoughts which you will read in the succeeding paragraphs.
Late last year, recession started lurking (again? why am I so fond about this topic?). From then on, it has become my constant enemy. Is it fair to put blame to it why things got screwed up in just the blink of an eye? Admittedly, recession has its positive side. It deserves a little credit for reminding me to be conscious on my little indulgencies, that is. No room for wasting a single penny ‘cause we never know what will happen worse future comes.
Two years of the so-called training in this company was supposed to be enough to be eligible for L1 (by the way, L1 is the visa needed to be able to legally work in the US on a long-term basis, easier and faster way than H1B). Technically, it’s only one year, save allowances for months of purely reading, trying to grasp the eccentric nature why this kind of company came into existence. That was then, of course, now it’s clear to me. That also includes, getting familiarized with terms like script, different kinds of protocols, other terms commonly used in our language, etc. and not handling actual projects.
So, we have L1 forms filled-up, extremely conscious of any missed out information, grammar gone awry and unforgivable mistakes on spelling. Otherwise, it’s a real turn off to the eyes of whoever reviewing them and likely hit straight to the trash. All needed supporting documents were furnished such as diploma, TOR and other academic credentials, including certificates of trainings and skill-enhancing activities attended, to which I have little to show (poor me, haha!). All of these in one package were submitted first to our lawyers, the process I have no previous knowledge of.
Everything I followed as told. But already having the knowledge of how badly the events have turned in the country, to which our visa was applied, I had little, if none, expectation for some encouraging results. I just let it flow according to the tide and said ‘come what may’. And true to my doubts and instinct, we received a negative feedback from our lawyers in just a matter of weeks. Yes, from our lawyers, which means that our applications did not even reach the hands of the embassy.
Accordingly, the probability that our applications get denied is too high, gambling is not an option. Once denied, I’m not sure after how many years in waiting for you to be able to re-apply. I fully understand now how the recession crippled our career path like some kind of a disease (as it had already been with ‘arbour’, hehe.) Why would people like us be allowed to work in their country, where thousands of Americans instantly lost jobs from companies closing down due to recession? Why would they hire foreign employees, when they must employ jobless locals first? Of course they needed more aid than us, rightfully. These are but some of the realities we face, of which there’s little we can do and no one to get mad at whom, including (or, excluding) my boss. A mountain of effort is needed to be able to persuade, convince or prove our worth that what we can offer are so specialized skills, they barely find from their people. But of course, we all know, this is hardly the case. I was suddenly struck with the realization that having this company as a back-up doesn’t necessarily give you an easy pass.
Two years had gone so far. So far I barely can look back with precise memory. In the span of two years, some of my perspectives in life suddenly turned to some degree, but does that equate to maturity? There’s a feeling of having to be more responsible to myself and life, in general ‘cause life after all is what we make it. I’ve become more anxious about what life awaits in my future, in all aspects that can be. This litany of weary thoughts could go on and on at this quarter-life.
But, at this point in my life I’m open to say that it is where I mostly find my peace and have learned to accept who I really am, in my immense limitations and prohibitive incapability. PerfectNESS, including a perfect happiness, fulfillment, and contentment can never ever be achieved ‘cause there is no such thing no matter how we try. I am not in an elating state of bliss but I chose to be happy, rather than hollow in misery. It is only with acceptance as the key to the patterns of this life, can we be able to move our lives on and along the way, learn to appreciate those little things that amount to joy, if not ignored.
And lastly, in the span of two years of newfound solitude and independence from my real family, I’ve never been this strong, that it was a miracle I’ve hurdled this far. This gift of strength that arose in me a mighty warrior is worth my life of thanksgiving and praise for my God, who was, is and will be my sole God, my all and everything.
Monday, May 11, 2009
The Phoenix in me
Written o6.03.08
Originally posted to multiply
I’ve been feeling this heavy burden since last week. But, I have no choice but to give a happy facade. It’s not that I’m turning away from the root of all my predicaments, but if I let myself be shaken by the tempest, I’ll be losing my sanity.
I’ve always thought I am tough and strong in my petite figure. But, even the strongest bends. Even the toughest retreats once in a while. Behind this strong projection, lies vulnerability in me. Yes, certain situations inflicted me badly, made me weak, sad, passive and left me no option but to move on. My spirits died and vanished.
But, like a Phoenix that dies in flames and is reborn from the ashes, so do I. I will regain my spirits. I know, my faith in the Omnipotent and Omniscient being and the strength of my character are only put to test. And all of these are just part of some Divine workings to make me even stronger and wiser by the lessons painstakingly learnt along the way.
In all of these dark clouds, comes silver lining afterwards. I just have to go back to the most basic thing to do and that is prayer and surrender to the Father’s loving and comforting arms because He is in control of everything. No matter what these situations will lead me through, I won’t hold grip loosely from the mighty hands of the Supreme but hang on as tight as I can. Never give up. Always regenerating when hurt or wounded. Be invincible like a phoenix.
Originally posted to multiply
I’ve been feeling this heavy burden since last week. But, I have no choice but to give a happy facade. It’s not that I’m turning away from the root of all my predicaments, but if I let myself be shaken by the tempest, I’ll be losing my sanity.
I’ve always thought I am tough and strong in my petite figure. But, even the strongest bends. Even the toughest retreats once in a while. Behind this strong projection, lies vulnerability in me. Yes, certain situations inflicted me badly, made me weak, sad, passive and left me no option but to move on. My spirits died and vanished.
But, like a Phoenix that dies in flames and is reborn from the ashes, so do I. I will regain my spirits. I know, my faith in the Omnipotent and Omniscient being and the strength of my character are only put to test. And all of these are just part of some Divine workings to make me even stronger and wiser by the lessons painstakingly learnt along the way.
In all of these dark clouds, comes silver lining afterwards. I just have to go back to the most basic thing to do and that is prayer and surrender to the Father’s loving and comforting arms because He is in control of everything. No matter what these situations will lead me through, I won’t hold grip loosely from the mighty hands of the Supreme but hang on as tight as I can. Never give up. Always regenerating when hurt or wounded. Be invincible like a phoenix.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Wine After Ages
A taste of wine after ages. What happens to my resolution? I knew it, that's why I had crossed-fingers. Just can't resist it.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
A day well-spent
I just returned home from a tiring off-road activity as an honor to a promise. Again, for the third time, I experienced the up and down thrill of dune bashing. This time around, I think we had with us the most aggressive though not so friendly driver (maybe because he doesn’t speak English well) that I knew so far. His skills in maneuvering the ride made me (right, not us but me) do all the twists and shouts. I found myself unconsciously kicking the back of the driver’s seat and both my hands were tired from a tight grip on the side of the door.
I should say it was a day well-spent. Not solely because I had fun myself. But because my friend, who was dying to try ‘desert safari’ before she leaves Dubai, said she had heaps of fun. After we lost all our energy from sand boarding, it’s time go down inside the camp and catch our breath. But, persistency led my friend to climb up the slope once again to camel ride. I wonder where she got all the energies despite being small. I’m glad she had fun and that’s all it is to me. Now, you’re all packed not only with photos but with the memories of fun and friendship. I will miss you Laarns! And I’m not gonna be saying my goodbye cause I know you’re coming back.
God bless you in all your endeavors in life.
I should say it was a day well-spent. Not solely because I had fun myself. But because my friend, who was dying to try ‘desert safari’ before she leaves Dubai, said she had heaps of fun. After we lost all our energy from sand boarding, it’s time go down inside the camp and catch our breath. But, persistency led my friend to climb up the slope once again to camel ride. I wonder where she got all the energies despite being small. I’m glad she had fun and that’s all it is to me. Now, you’re all packed not only with photos but with the memories of fun and friendship. I will miss you Laarns! And I’m not gonna be saying my goodbye cause I know you’re coming back.
God bless you in all your endeavors in life.
Monday, February 9, 2009
25 random things about me
Just riding on to the ‘random list’ thing. You ride on,too.
1. I am called ‘Tatty’ or ‘Tati’ (no exact spelling) by my family. Why? It’s actually the reverse of ‘tita’. My niece, when she’s very young, kept on calling me ’tati’ becuase she can’t utter ‘tita’ correctly. Now, that’s what I am called by everyone in the family.
2. When I joined the company that I am currently employed now, I was baptised with a new nick name, which at first, I thought was weird. They call me Mace (read: Ma-se, with stress on the 2nd syllable). Later on, I learned to love it and thought it is the sweetest name of all.
3. They say I am a, hate to say this word, menopausal baby. My mother had me when she was in her 40’s. 11 years is the age gap between me and my next brother, which goes to show that I was totally unexpected. (This might have been the explanation why I am lunatic, heheh)
4. I call my older sisters ‘At’ as short cut for ‘Ate’ instead of ‘Te’ which is the one commonly heard of. I guess no one in this world uses this term other than me.
5. I was baptized a catholic and had my share of the ’religious’ beliefs. When, I reached 2nd year collge, I stopped doing the ‘Sign of the Cross’. I once resigned to being agnostic.
6. I didn’t excel in any subject except for English pronunciation, which earned me best in english in 6th grade.
7. I have a niece who is older than me by 7 months. Strange!
8. 3 days - the shortest span of period I’ve been with a company (FedEx Dubai) and the number of days of not-serious relationship with my 1st bf.
9. 4 years and 8 months was my longest serious relationship (omg, it’s almost half a decade.)
10. ‘Love Me Again’ of Piolo Pascual and Angel Locsin was the latest movie I’ve watched on big screen. VIP seat at 50 AED. The only reason I watched it is because most of the plot of the story was shot in my home sweet home, Bukidnon. Bukidnon is very nice!
11. In my high school and college years, I was obsessed with JFK and Apollo 11 Mission. When my close friends hear these two, they always associate them to me.
12. I watched ABS-CBN more often than GMA. Kapamilya po ang iyong lingkod, heheh!
13. Haven’t been to a lot of places in the Philippines like Baguio, Bohol or Boracay. I was a foreigner in my own country (translation: Ako’y isang dayuhan sa sariling bayan.)
14. My 2nd year HS math teacher gave me a chocolate because I was one of his good students (walay lain, heheh).
15. In 4th year HS, our section (St. Theresa) was assigned to teach Religion to elementary students at a school beside ours. I went on to teaching 5th grade.
16. If given a chance to shift profession, I’d definitely want to be a newscaster or an interior designer.
17. I used to bite my nails as a habit. It was the hardest habit to break. Now, I enjoy having my red nails on. It is alluring.
18. I am a late sleeper and late riser.
19. I can’t sleep with pillows on my head. Though, I need a lot of them to cuddle with.
20. I developed a phobia riding on a plane, after my terrible turbulence experience during my flight back from Philippines to Dubai (it was during my first vacation). That was my worst nightmare ever.
21. I’m obsessed with monkey stuffed toys. I have a couple of moi-moi’s scattered around my bed. I also adopted a monkey virtual pet.
22. I am a fan of Leona Lewis. For everyone who doesn’t know her, she was the winner of The X Factor (UK) season 3. I think she has the sweetest British accent that I’ve ever heard of.
23. I’m currenlty using Lacoste Inspiration perfume.
24. I had an accident when I first try to learn to ride a motorcyle. Believe it or not, it was on a Good Friday.
25. In my childhood, my childhood friends and I have a group which we called the ‘7 Unicorns’ (the seven are Apple, Willgie Mae, Ate Iv, Ate King2x, Ate Gigi, Ate Ingrid and me).
1. I am called ‘Tatty’ or ‘Tati’ (no exact spelling) by my family. Why? It’s actually the reverse of ‘tita’. My niece, when she’s very young, kept on calling me ’tati’ becuase she can’t utter ‘tita’ correctly. Now, that’s what I am called by everyone in the family.
2. When I joined the company that I am currently employed now, I was baptised with a new nick name, which at first, I thought was weird. They call me Mace (read: Ma-se, with stress on the 2nd syllable). Later on, I learned to love it and thought it is the sweetest name of all.
3. They say I am a, hate to say this word, menopausal baby. My mother had me when she was in her 40’s. 11 years is the age gap between me and my next brother, which goes to show that I was totally unexpected. (This might have been the explanation why I am lunatic, heheh)
4. I call my older sisters ‘At’ as short cut for ‘Ate’ instead of ‘Te’ which is the one commonly heard of. I guess no one in this world uses this term other than me.
5. I was baptized a catholic and had my share of the ’religious’ beliefs. When, I reached 2nd year collge, I stopped doing the ‘Sign of the Cross’. I once resigned to being agnostic.
6. I didn’t excel in any subject except for English pronunciation, which earned me best in english in 6th grade.
7. I have a niece who is older than me by 7 months. Strange!
8. 3 days - the shortest span of period I’ve been with a company (FedEx Dubai) and the number of days of not-serious relationship with my 1st bf.
9. 4 years and 8 months was my longest serious relationship (omg, it’s almost half a decade.)
10. ‘Love Me Again’ of Piolo Pascual and Angel Locsin was the latest movie I’ve watched on big screen. VIP seat at 50 AED. The only reason I watched it is because most of the plot of the story was shot in my home sweet home, Bukidnon. Bukidnon is very nice!
11. In my high school and college years, I was obsessed with JFK and Apollo 11 Mission. When my close friends hear these two, they always associate them to me.
12. I watched ABS-CBN more often than GMA. Kapamilya po ang iyong lingkod, heheh!
13. Haven’t been to a lot of places in the Philippines like Baguio, Bohol or Boracay. I was a foreigner in my own country (translation: Ako’y isang dayuhan sa sariling bayan.)
14. My 2nd year HS math teacher gave me a chocolate because I was one of his good students (walay lain, heheh).
15. In 4th year HS, our section (St. Theresa) was assigned to teach Religion to elementary students at a school beside ours. I went on to teaching 5th grade.
16. If given a chance to shift profession, I’d definitely want to be a newscaster or an interior designer.
17. I used to bite my nails as a habit. It was the hardest habit to break. Now, I enjoy having my red nails on. It is alluring.
18. I am a late sleeper and late riser.
19. I can’t sleep with pillows on my head. Though, I need a lot of them to cuddle with.
20. I developed a phobia riding on a plane, after my terrible turbulence experience during my flight back from Philippines to Dubai (it was during my first vacation). That was my worst nightmare ever.
21. I’m obsessed with monkey stuffed toys. I have a couple of moi-moi’s scattered around my bed. I also adopted a monkey virtual pet.
22. I am a fan of Leona Lewis. For everyone who doesn’t know her, she was the winner of The X Factor (UK) season 3. I think she has the sweetest British accent that I’ve ever heard of.
23. I’m currenlty using Lacoste Inspiration perfume.
24. I had an accident when I first try to learn to ride a motorcyle. Believe it or not, it was on a Good Friday.
25. In my childhood, my childhood friends and I have a group which we called the ‘7 Unicorns’ (the seven are Apple, Willgie Mae, Ate Iv, Ate King2x, Ate Gigi, Ate Ingrid and me).
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Disquieted
My eyes were right in front the tv but I wasn’t paying attention to what I was watching. My mind was drifting somewhere like it can wander farther.
The drama is supposed to be over. Long over. I thought I’ve made up my mind. I thought it was time to cross the bridge, let go and never look back.
But how can I do this task when thoughts of him follow me relentlessly? His image leads me towards bittersweet sensation. His words always run through my head.
It always has been this way. It seems that the more I avoided, the more I am drawn…I can’t throw him out from my system…I am wondering how long could this be like? When can it end?
The drama is supposed to be over. Long over. I thought I’ve made up my mind. I thought it was time to cross the bridge, let go and never look back.
But how can I do this task when thoughts of him follow me relentlessly? His image leads me towards bittersweet sensation. His words always run through my head.
It always has been this way. It seems that the more I avoided, the more I am drawn…I can’t throw him out from my system…I am wondering how long could this be like? When can it end?
The Wait Is Over
It’s not as though I am expecting for some sort of a response, but I was hoping to find even a tiny hint.
Today, just when the least I expect it, I found it. The wait is partly over.
It’s no tiny hint. It is a big thing for me. A bucketload was just unloaded from my shoulders. I smiled in a sweet relief.
Praying, enduring patience…together eventually will earn its worth.
Benediction Rhyme
These lines from the Benediction of Rev. Lowery’s on Obama’s inauguration brought a smile not only to me but also to Obama himself and the rest of the jubilant crowd.
“Lord, in the memory of all the saints who from their labors rest, and in the joy of a new beginning, we ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around … when yellow will be mellow … when the red man can get ahead, man; and when white will embrace what is right. That all those who do justice and love mercy say Amen.”
“Lord, in the memory of all the saints who from their labors rest, and in the joy of a new beginning, we ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around … when yellow will be mellow … when the red man can get ahead, man; and when white will embrace what is right. That all those who do justice and love mercy say Amen.”
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Hanging by a thread
This is the metaphor of our company in the middle of the recession. How can a company live and survive without projects in a row? Even with contracts signed already, our clients are freezing the kick-off. Everything is put on hold...including our much-awaited salary increment.
As my boss said, the good thing is we are surviving. Our contemporary companies in the U.S. have already closed. But, how far can it survive? It's a question nobody can answer. No one can depict what 3 months, 6 months, even a year from now is up to. Everything is a mere speculation.
Although, I thought my boss is the most inhumane creature in the world after he told four people off-guard, 'This is gonna be your last day in this company', I realized he made sense. He did what he has to do as a measure for survival. After all, they didn't hire people to fire them anytime they want.
Well, this is beyond any genuis. And anything beyond that is beyond me. I guess, all we ought to do is wait and see.
As my boss said, the good thing is we are surviving. Our contemporary companies in the U.S. have already closed. But, how far can it survive? It's a question nobody can answer. No one can depict what 3 months, 6 months, even a year from now is up to. Everything is a mere speculation.
Although, I thought my boss is the most inhumane creature in the world after he told four people off-guard, 'This is gonna be your last day in this company', I realized he made sense. He did what he has to do as a measure for survival. After all, they didn't hire people to fire them anytime they want.
Well, this is beyond any genuis. And anything beyond that is beyond me. I guess, all we ought to do is wait and see.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
A sad news
Jan. 11, 2009
The day I learned that four of my officemates have been laid off from work. I feel sad. It crushed my heart. I even cried from within for being so sorry for this horrible news. Well, the global financial crisis is not new to us. We have been hearing and been talking ourselves of the massive lay-off by a lot of even giant companies in Dubai. But, I just can't believe that it's penetrating now in our company...this soon. Months without project, forced annual vacation, no salary increase...who would, in their right mind, not expect this whole thing?
I can not be exempted from this. It's just that these four people happen to came in last, so they are to come out first. With projects still not getting in our way, anyone left awaits for their turn to be laid-off anytime. NOBODY STANDS ON THE SAFER GROUND.
I fear so much. It trembled everybody. Who wouldn't? Who would want to lose a job at this time where it is a pinhole to find a good one. But in times like this, I know where I can turn to...where it has been my refuge to find solace and security from this seemingly unsecured circumstances. For every single person has different circumstances in life at the same and varying times...that in the end, is worth thanking for why such circumstances happen.
I hang on to Him. I stand still about the future for it has been already laid upon His hands if we believe. And His promises are worth believing.
The day I learned that four of my officemates have been laid off from work. I feel sad. It crushed my heart. I even cried from within for being so sorry for this horrible news. Well, the global financial crisis is not new to us. We have been hearing and been talking ourselves of the massive lay-off by a lot of even giant companies in Dubai. But, I just can't believe that it's penetrating now in our company...this soon. Months without project, forced annual vacation, no salary increase...who would, in their right mind, not expect this whole thing?
I can not be exempted from this. It's just that these four people happen to came in last, so they are to come out first. With projects still not getting in our way, anyone left awaits for their turn to be laid-off anytime. NOBODY STANDS ON THE SAFER GROUND.
I fear so much. It trembled everybody. Who wouldn't? Who would want to lose a job at this time where it is a pinhole to find a good one. But in times like this, I know where I can turn to...where it has been my refuge to find solace and security from this seemingly unsecured circumstances. For every single person has different circumstances in life at the same and varying times...that in the end, is worth thanking for why such circumstances happen.
I hang on to Him. I stand still about the future for it has been already laid upon His hands if we believe. And His promises are worth believing.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Resolutions for 2009
I'm not really a new-year's-resolution person. Although, I have tried that before, I haven't been so serious about it. I used to jot down what I would like to accomplish, to erradicate, to lessen or minimize for the next coming year. But, I ended up being dismayed at the fact that only a few from the list of what they call 'resolutions' have been ticked.
But, this time, just to revive this old habit, I will write down a list for 2009. This time around, with the hope that every single item from the list will be ticked as accomplished. Let me see. So here it goes...
1. Don't stay up very late, especially on weekdays. Take advantage of the opportunity to have a decent sleep other people are deprived of. It's good for your health and beauty...(beauty tip ito! heheh)
2. Minimize being an impulsive buyer and a shopaholic monster. Think, think, think before you buy. Tip: when you go to the mall, don't bring large amount of money and don't bring credit cards, I think that would help to beat the itch.
3. Drink a lot of water. I'm not sure how many liters of water is ideal for or needed by the body in one single day. All I know is that it's a lot and I have not been religious about it..sure I ain't...So, cheers to more fluids!
4. Stop drinking...(as in beer, spirits or any form of liquor)...even on occasions...If I could...heheh!
5. Eat less meat and go for more veggies and salads...Be more health-conscious.
6. Do sit-ups more often...like a decent count twice a week...that would do.
7. Go back to badminton game every friday afternoon.
8. Familiarize by heart the map of UAE, the geographical site and location of each emirates with regard to each other.
9. Memorize by heart the capitals of the 50 states of the US. char, char lang...additional knowledge.
10. Enrol in Photography class. Kareer-rin ito, who knows, may future pa pala ako dito, heheh!
11. Try Dubai ski, as in skiing talaga he,not just the riding-on-the-sled thing...
12. Haven't been to Dreamland, so I wanna splurge there.
13. Buffet lunch at the 7-star, Burj Al Arab.
14. Have my second annual vacation to the Philippines and a side trip to HK and Australia. My HS friend is soon migrating to the Land Down Under and I'll beg her to adopt me while I'm there. heheh!
15. Adopt more moi-moi's (to add to my brood of monkey stuffed toys).
16. Warch more classical movies, like of Audrey Hepburn
17. Call more often to my family in the Philippines.
18. Be more open, outspoken, sweet, carefree, a little less reserved but still maintain honesty.
19. Lessen ang pagiging suplada and mataray
20. I'm not really the friendly type, so I hope to be one. I guess there's no harm in it.
21. Save, save, save..before we know it's raining.
22. Invest to something that never depreciates.
23. Has anybody tried yoga class in Dubai? I'd love to try yoga...it's good not only for the body but also for the mind.
24. Laugh out loud.
25. Get over!
26. Learn to accept.
27. Say sorry to that one person i hurt so much before it's too late.
28. Reconnect myself to the Lord. Feed my malnourished spirituality.
29. Retreat...spend more quiet time in conversation with the Him.
30. Blog more often eventhough I sometimes feel that blogging is boring but for me, it has been a very helpful tool, especially when I have a lot of thoughts in my head and by writing them down can I somehow feel a sense of relief.
31. Read more more books from novels to inspirational to political to cook books. Just anything.
32. Read the Bible and know it by heart. True wisdom comes from it.
33. Make a difference through simple things.
34. Cook food so I don't need to depend to Brod Luths all the time.
35. Take driving lessons and get a license.
36. Submit L1 visa application, be granted and fly to US for a project.
37. Go to Turkey for the '09 Eid.
38. Reunion with XU Accountancy '01 and '02 in Dubai.
39. Smile more often.
40. Try bunjee jumping and sky diving, if there are such thing in here in Dubai.
41. Go to Atlantis in Palm Jumeirah
42. Watch more movies in the big screen
43. Learn the 'healing brush' of photoshop.
44. Re-join with OG.
45. Be more spontaneous in my praying.
46. Finish Stephenie Meyer's vampire romance series New Moon, Eclipse and Breaking Dawn.
47. Read more Paulo Coelho.
48. Watch concerts of any foreign artists visiting in Dubai (or Philippines)
49. IPod is out, IPod Touch is in. I want new IPod Touch.
50. A white-colored-strap watch.
51. A new SLR lens. OMG! I'm still the same materialistic bitch.
52. Try extreme ride.
53. Improve my english speaking. Learn accent. Be fluent.
54. Learn new words and vocabulary.
55. Study the materials I have for the CMA exam. Whew! This is the toughest. :-(
56. Go to Boracay or Panglao beach.
57. Go to Bohol, tour around and meet my paternal relatives.
58. Candlelight dinner.
59. Receive a flower.
60. Meet Papa Piolo in person and see why are so many girls (and boys) go gaga over him.
61. A happy Christmas and New Year!
There are items here which are not really resolutions, but more of a fantastic dream. Heheh! Let them be. They are something to look forward to at 2009 end, whether they ever come true or not. If yes, yes!!! If no, there are more years to come to carry them over. Still, there are some here which are pretty tough to do and not to do. It's only week one and yet i feel i've already fallen off the wagon. Tsk, tsk tsk...
But, this time, just to revive this old habit, I will write down a list for 2009. This time around, with the hope that every single item from the list will be ticked as accomplished. Let me see. So here it goes...
1. Don't stay up very late, especially on weekdays. Take advantage of the opportunity to have a decent sleep other people are deprived of. It's good for your health and beauty...(beauty tip ito! heheh)
2. Minimize being an impulsive buyer and a shopaholic monster. Think, think, think before you buy. Tip: when you go to the mall, don't bring large amount of money and don't bring credit cards, I think that would help to beat the itch.
3. Drink a lot of water. I'm not sure how many liters of water is ideal for or needed by the body in one single day. All I know is that it's a lot and I have not been religious about it..sure I ain't...So, cheers to more fluids!
4. Stop drinking...(as in beer, spirits or any form of liquor)...even on occasions...If I could...heheh!
5. Eat less meat and go for more veggies and salads...Be more health-conscious.
6. Do sit-ups more often...like a decent count twice a week...that would do.
7. Go back to badminton game every friday afternoon.
8. Familiarize by heart the map of UAE, the geographical site and location of each emirates with regard to each other.
9. Memorize by heart the capitals of the 50 states of the US. char, char lang...additional knowledge.
10. Enrol in Photography class. Kareer-rin ito, who knows, may future pa pala ako dito, heheh!
11. Try Dubai ski, as in skiing talaga he,not just the riding-on-the-sled thing...
12. Haven't been to Dreamland, so I wanna splurge there.
13. Buffet lunch at the 7-star, Burj Al Arab.
14. Have my second annual vacation to the Philippines and a side trip to HK and Australia. My HS friend is soon migrating to the Land Down Under and I'll beg her to adopt me while I'm there. heheh!
15. Adopt more moi-moi's (to add to my brood of monkey stuffed toys).
16. Warch more classical movies, like of Audrey Hepburn
17. Call more often to my family in the Philippines.
18. Be more open, outspoken, sweet, carefree, a little less reserved but still maintain honesty.
19. Lessen ang pagiging suplada and mataray
20. I'm not really the friendly type, so I hope to be one. I guess there's no harm in it.
21. Save, save, save..before we know it's raining.
22. Invest to something that never depreciates.
23. Has anybody tried yoga class in Dubai? I'd love to try yoga...it's good not only for the body but also for the mind.
24. Laugh out loud.
25. Get over!
26. Learn to accept.
27. Say sorry to that one person i hurt so much before it's too late.
28. Reconnect myself to the Lord. Feed my malnourished spirituality.
29. Retreat...spend more quiet time in conversation with the Him.
30. Blog more often eventhough I sometimes feel that blogging is boring but for me, it has been a very helpful tool, especially when I have a lot of thoughts in my head and by writing them down can I somehow feel a sense of relief.
31. Read more more books from novels to inspirational to political to cook books. Just anything.
32. Read the Bible and know it by heart. True wisdom comes from it.
33. Make a difference through simple things.
34. Cook food so I don't need to depend to Brod Luths all the time.
35. Take driving lessons and get a license.
36. Submit L1 visa application, be granted and fly to US for a project.
37. Go to Turkey for the '09 Eid.
38. Reunion with XU Accountancy '01 and '02 in Dubai.
39. Smile more often.
40. Try bunjee jumping and sky diving, if there are such thing in here in Dubai.
41. Go to Atlantis in Palm Jumeirah
42. Watch more movies in the big screen
43. Learn the 'healing brush' of photoshop.
44. Re-join with OG.
45. Be more spontaneous in my praying.
46. Finish Stephenie Meyer's vampire romance series New Moon, Eclipse and Breaking Dawn.
47. Read more Paulo Coelho.
48. Watch concerts of any foreign artists visiting in Dubai (or Philippines)
49. IPod is out, IPod Touch is in. I want new IPod Touch.
50. A white-colored-strap watch.
51. A new SLR lens. OMG! I'm still the same materialistic bitch.
52. Try extreme ride.
53. Improve my english speaking. Learn accent. Be fluent.
54. Learn new words and vocabulary.
55. Study the materials I have for the CMA exam. Whew! This is the toughest. :-(
56. Go to Boracay or Panglao beach.
57. Go to Bohol, tour around and meet my paternal relatives.
58. Candlelight dinner.
59. Receive a flower.
60. Meet Papa Piolo in person and see why are so many girls (and boys) go gaga over him.
61. A happy Christmas and New Year!
There are items here which are not really resolutions, but more of a fantastic dream. Heheh! Let them be. They are something to look forward to at 2009 end, whether they ever come true or not. If yes, yes!!! If no, there are more years to come to carry them over. Still, there are some here which are pretty tough to do and not to do. It's only week one and yet i feel i've already fallen off the wagon. Tsk, tsk tsk...
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Welcome 2009
At the start of 2008, I received a gift…a very special gift. In fact, I was the happiest person on Earth to have ever received that present. I was happy…then. But, one year and everything in between, was enough for me to make me realized that what I perceived could be a nirvana, was only a dream. One year was full of asking…questioning…wondering…guessing, in cyclical manner…and which I could describe the vagueness as closed to being apparent…and that it is hard to believe and hope for something that isn't there, without truth in substance but lies. In the end, God has a way of REVEALING to me all the answers to the why’s and what’s I sought so hungrily, crystal clear. Now, it signifies a full stop. THEN…move forward…because no matter how and no matter what…dot…dot…dot…Life cannot be lived backwards. Our solace…the never-ending lessons in life…and the experience that can we can share that once in our lifetime, we have traveled that road…no one did.
For this brand new year…2009…I welcome YOU with a blast!!! I bid goodbye to 2008…which when you look back are only shadows from the past. There were times, you are challenged to hold back tears. Many things have caused you hurt deep inside and nursing those cuts and bruises, was all you could do… Now I see a lot of scars in my heart and I don’t know if they will ever be healed even through time…because I know that wounds do not heal fast…and the scars that they left, just like the physical scars in my body…will remain, I think, as long as I live.
But, hey, it’s time to make a fresh start. A happy start. I am hopeful that 2009 will turn direction and change its course away from negative implications from the year that just passed. I pray to my Father that I will finally grasp that utopic happiness, if there could be such a thing. I pray that God will give our deepest desires. I pray that whatever it is that should be found…I will find.
And I couldn’t end this without giving praise and thanksgiving to my Father for being my source of spiritual strength. No amount of words can encapsulate how I thank you for blessing me with your powerful grace. In everything I do, I long to do it for your glory!
For this brand new year…2009…I welcome YOU with a blast!!! I bid goodbye to 2008…which when you look back are only shadows from the past. There were times, you are challenged to hold back tears. Many things have caused you hurt deep inside and nursing those cuts and bruises, was all you could do… Now I see a lot of scars in my heart and I don’t know if they will ever be healed even through time…because I know that wounds do not heal fast…and the scars that they left, just like the physical scars in my body…will remain, I think, as long as I live.
But, hey, it’s time to make a fresh start. A happy start. I am hopeful that 2009 will turn direction and change its course away from negative implications from the year that just passed. I pray to my Father that I will finally grasp that utopic happiness, if there could be such a thing. I pray that God will give our deepest desires. I pray that whatever it is that should be found…I will find.
And I couldn’t end this without giving praise and thanksgiving to my Father for being my source of spiritual strength. No amount of words can encapsulate how I thank you for blessing me with your powerful grace. In everything I do, I long to do it for your glory!
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