mae_ruth

Charlie's Grind and Grill

2011-07-01T14:36:00.001+08:00

Marvin and I went to try out a new Burger Place, thanks to one of his friends.
Charlie's Grind and Grill is situated along the highway (16 East Kapitolyo Drive, Pasig) but we had to go through residential houses first before we finally got there, kinda hidden actually. I even thought we were lost!

You all know I'm not a big fan of burgers so I tried their Marinara Meats Balls in Pasta and Marvin had Black Angus Beef Burger and Buffalo Wings which he was truly truly satisfied of. I actually liked all that we ordered too.. including the tasty fries that go with the burger and the Charlie's Iced Tea (I even had to order a take out). I didn't have a camera with me then, sorry and my phone got no memory card. Of all days, it had to be last night that we were digitally helpless.. oh well.

Do not be discouraged with the place though. It's modest and quite small and may get packed easily. Please do not go there as a team or more than 5.. you'll find it hard to squeeze in and sit together. And yes, they're situated beside a car wash.. and they have tables outside to extend their dine-in services but come there for the food. One thing I like is the overflowing of condiments in their outside ref. Super nice for sauce lovers.

We promise to give you pictures when we get to come back. Don't fail to try their promising handcrafted burgers too! :)

I am Number Four Too!

2011-06-30T11:27:00.003+08:00

Well, I'm four months that is! :)

Good Vibes lang peeps.

My trips to the bathroom have definitely lessened. I feel better now more than ever, no more lazy days (for now) ! hehe. One thing I'm really noticing, I can sense some pulses and somehow 'kicks' from down below. It could be my intestine.. but it could be something else too. I wanna think the baby is swimming and making some acrobat moves. :)

Stomach Flu

2011-06-18T09:27:00.001+08:00

Perhaps you've experienced diarrhea once in your life? Or maybe you've vomited here and there (specially after a drinking session?) But have you had this two together in a single night? I did, and it was terrible, I tell you. Specially when you're pregnant!

So it was my typical Saturday. I came home, had breakfast, rest a little then slept. I was awakened by mild stomach cramps telling me that I need to use the bathroom, which I did. I realized I'm having diarrhea when I've been in and out of the bathroom more than 3 times in 4 hours. Usually, preggies are constipated and I'm no different. So I like this change, maybe it won't last soon. I was thinking maybe I just need to dispose all those that I've eaten.

Lo and behold, my diarrhea never left. I vomited right after dinner, had fruit and vomited again. It was crazy as I've never been sick like this.. ever! I can't keep anything down.

I resolved to run to the ER, as advised by my OB, if I won't be better. And thank goodness I was a bit better the next morning (because I didn't take anything anymore, except water!) Then I slowly took food that were easy to digest.

.....

I got the 'stomach flu' diagnosis from my book but I didn't exactly know what happened to me that night. I did not see a doctor at all. But the web says stomach flu is caused by germs or bacteria. I'm scared. I will make sure to talk to my OB about it.

Breaking Dawn Official Trailer (Teaser)

2011-06-08T00:45:00.001+08:00

I can't wait for November!!

I think I will surely love Bill Condon. :)

Breaking Dawn Poster

2011-06-01T00:40:00.001+08:00

Coming this November!!

Dopplers

2011-05-27T22:54:00.000+08:00

I heard my baby's heart beat, second time, today. Quite fascinating actually. :)

My OB used a handy fetal doppler and with a few gel, we were able to listen. I read from the book that you can slo buy your own dopplers so you could hear your baby's heart beat whenever you wishes to. Super cool!

Body Changes

2011-05-25T21:56:00.002+08:00

Before I learned that I was pregnant, the most prominent change I was ever aware of was that of my breast. They're super full like I was supposed to have my period. LOL, excuse me if my post will be revealing or straightforward. :)

breast changes - the more you approach your delivery day, the bigger and fuller they will get. Especially your areola which simply prepares you for breastfeeding

bloating/flatulence - I never experienced this. I get bloated if I drink too much liquid but apart from that, I never felt being bloated

fatigue, sleepiness, low energy - this is fairly common. When extreme fatigue hits, there's just one thing to do, REST. Most pregnant women get so lazy as in lazy, haha, as the month progresses.

frequent urination - ay very true. but when I hit my second trimester, visit to the washroom lessened.

nausea w/ or w/o vomiting - so far, I've just vomited twice. :) apart from being nauseous, I get headachese here and there.

excess saliva - weird right? but because of our hormonal changes, the body produces more saliva. nasasamid ako sa sarili kong laway, hehe.

increased sensitivity to changes - we all know this. pregnant women tend to puke a lot if they don't like what they're smelling

metallic taste - pregnant women may experience gum bleeding a lot because of lack of calcium, that's where there metallic taste comes from

spotting / discharges - one may discharge a lot, expect that but colors vary. some discharges may show signs of complication or infection so always to talk your OB about it. spotting is red and beware. consult your OB when you're experiencing spotting.

hair loss/breakage - I don't know if other pregnant women are experiencing this, but I do. my hair is so brittle.

If you're experiencing any of the mentioned symptoms above (hopefully not all!), relax, nothing's wrong with you.. you're just pregnant. Continue to eat well, avoid stress, get enough sleep and drink your vitamins. All will be better, soon.

Profiling

2011-05-23T21:19:00.000+08:00

*image not mine, I still don't show*

I'm very thankful to my manager who got me this book entitled "What to Expect when You're Expecting". Been reading it since I got my hands on it. :)

And through this book, I learned that when you're pregnant, 3 profiles does matter:

GYNECOLOGICAL HISTORY

You have to mention to your OB if you've ever taken birth control pills or other methods. Other women kept taking oral meds because they aren't aware they are pregnant. So it's safe that you always keep your count right, and don't miss telling your OB about it. Anything that's happening down there and inside - mention to your OB.

OBSTETRICAL HISTORY

The success of your pregnancy also depends on your birthing profile - is this your first pregnancy? have you had back to back pregnancies? Have you had any preterm births, abortion or miscarriage? Are you considered high-risk? Women who are first timers to bear and is older than 35 maybe at high-risk.

lastly..

MEDICAL HISTORY

How's your health going along? Suffering from Obesity? Diabetes? Eating disorders? Are you drinking any meds on a regular basis?

I didn't really plan on getting pregnant but I'm still thankful that it happened now than later. I may not be that healthy when I hit my 30's. And of course, every body is different, every lifestyle is different. You may be 40 and still has the body of a 25y/o.

The book keeps reminding it's readers that every pregnancy is different. I think mine is. :)

Fixed

2011-05-02T01:12:00.001+08:00

Pictures in my blog got all my posts mixed up..
but yey! It's all back now.. got to post 'hot news' here!

6 not 8

2011-04-18T21:12:00.001+08:00

Hmmmm.. according to my LMP, I was 8 weeks pregnant. But today, I had my first transV that confirmed I am rather 6 3/7 weeks. OB said we follow the ultrasound calculations as it is more accurate.

I also had some blood tests done. My medical profile confirmed that I am fit to bear a child.

.. good vibes, good vibes. :)

Two Lines!

2011-04-01T19:52:00.003+08:00

Ok, just before it turned out to be positive, I got a single line on my very first try. I wasn't surprised.. I really thought I will get my period soon.

After a week, I tried a PT again (in the office), yep! just to satisfy my curiousity. I placed the PT away from me because I was positive that it'll be just a single line. But lo and behold, I saw a two well placed and well pronounced purple lines, no mistakes this time. My hands turned cold and I texted away.

My head was racing then and my heart was pumping... I was looking at 9 months from now, I was looking at my family, my work and how everything will be.. now that I will have a ... baby of my own.

Questions.. questions.. I've got thousands of them!! but i was given the comfort that i need by my beloved fiancee who stood with me thru thick and thin.

Surprise !

2011-04-01T03:09:00.000+08:00

There's always one.. coming your way!

(test post for the blog, which suddenly stopped working correctly)

A Chocolate Mousse to Remember

2011-03-23T22:17:00.003+08:00

** finally, i had the time to put this together**

August 21, Saturday AM

I can say it’s been a tradition that the team spends quality time every weekend, or whenever we have money. Their latest addiction is indulging in seafood, that is Dampa. This particular Saturday, they decided yet again, to spend another ‘breakfast’ in Macapagal avenue. Since I’m trying to save up as much as I can for our Hong Kong Trip, I initially declined. There were no signs of panic and disturbance from the team but my manager insisted I go. I even used Marvin as my excuse (that he was sleeping, that he may not be able to follow, that our food trip won’t be worth it since he can’t eat much) but they all talked me out of it, like everyone has something to say to me. Oo na, sige na.. sasama na ko. Gosh. Little do I know that he (Marvin) wouldn’t have a hard time joining us.

Here are some little segments.

So we arrived bright and early at Dampa. Like the usual, I didn’t join the rest on their scouting walks. My manager, Allian, despite her killer heels, walked from restaurant to restaurant looking for a private resto with an acceptable ambiance. We moved from the initial open area to an airconditioned one because I prefer not to hear Bonchie whine. :p And as usual, I let them order food. I was so engrossed on reading that I let them do all the work.

When we were just waiting for our food to be cooked, they were singing the Karaoke. They even asked me what Marvin’s theme song is to me. I said that of Introvoys, they all laughed. Wala ata silang love song. OK fine.. hnd ko matandaan. After a few more songs and few more 5 pesos, Allian said she wanted to buy some DVDs so she stepped out. I can’t remember how everyone else followed. I know Rona said she wanted DVD too. Few minutes after, Myda and Hakkai followed outside for some reason. Kathlyn stepped out too as she will wait for Cai to arrive. Joey kept taking pictures, I honestly don’t know or where everyone is as I was busy reading.

Suddenly, a becky approached me with a cake in a slightly open box. He said, me nagpapabigay po, “Ha?” Ung nasa likod nia said “buksan mo daw ung box, buksan mo” So he slightly opened it and I saw the WILL YOU MARRY ME text, yes I’m 20-20. I am shaking a little. Sabi ko, “Ano to ha, sino nagpapabigay nito.” At the back of my mind, I know the cake is from Marvin.

And then..

spread the LOVE!

Mheann and Trek Tied the Knot!

2011-03-22T23:47:00.001+08:00

The long wait is officially over. :)

Mheann and Trek celebrated their 12 years together by tying the knot at the Lourdes Church in Tagaytay City last March 22.

The church ceremony was very emotional as close friends and family witnessed the exchange of vows. I went blank when Mheann pulled out a paper when she was about to say her piece, masasayang make up ko. I know deep in my heart, she said nothing but pure LOVE. Mababaw luha ko so I opted not to listen well. I focused on the priest and his intention to make the promises of the couple blessed by the people around them. The priest invited the family and ninongs and ninangs to surround the couple as they take their oath of endless love. Truly heartwarming.

A few minutes later, the ceremony was over. Picture Time naman. :)

let me show you some cute finds...

their bridal car was vintage

the venue of the reception was breathtaking overlooking Taal Volcano
I forgot where this reception was held but it was very near Lourdes Church
(plus I don't have invitation, haha, so I don't have a reference)

here's the pool turned to be a mini stage or area where the couple would be at
we didn't get to stay the whole time because I have class waiting for me, but I'm sure this looks lovely at night

even this cute cake was orange-y
I wish I could have stolen a cupcake!! haha

trendy photobooth courtesy of CDWORX

nothing beats a good old company
nice to be with you all

i love them!
SUPER CONGRATS!

it may not be easy to keep the relationship for 12 years, but it's not impossible.
CHEERS to the newlyweds. :)

Would look forward to juniors soon...

no to PLASTICs

2011-03-15T04:31:00.002+08:00

From my recent Cebu Trip, I have concluded that Cebu is making a stand on campaigning a healthier and greener Cebu by eliminating plastic bottles.

How?

Pictured below are some water dispensers that you'll see around Cebu. Almost every street has a minimum of one water dispenser. I am totally amazed on Filipinos developed a paid water dispenser that aims to control usage of plastic water bottles. Your Php1.00 in this dispenser is equivalent to 25ML of water whereas the cheapest 50ML water in 7-11 is around Php10.00. You don't just save money, we CONTROL PLASTIC.

Don't buy water bottles in stores anymore. Now you can carry your chic/posh/cute tumbler and refill all you want.

It's time to make a difference.

(hopefully clean water is not going to be an issue.)

I hope we could find ways to improve this dispenser and adapt here in the Philippines.
I challenge those water companies (Absolute, Coca-Cola, Wilkins, etc) to just make dispensers like this instead of small disposable water bottles.

Let's be Eco-Friendly.

For more ways to save the Earth, visit wwf.org.ph/howhelp.php
facebook.com/WWF.Philippines

Hukad Restaurant in Cebu

2011-03-15T04:02:00.000+08:00

Recommended by a friend, Marvin and I tried Hukad restaurant at Ayala Center Cebu, before we flew back to Manila.

Shrimps in Garlic

Chiken Halang-Halang

tastes like cooked with gata and a little spicy

Kinilaw na Isda

Escabecheng Tanigue

cute rectanglar flat plate

I had Maja Blanca for dessert

We liked their service, and their food was delicioso too! There were just several items they didn't have like certain drink on their menu, but overall, we enjoyed the dining experience.

Marvin super liked the halang-halang and tanigue.

In case you'll be here, try their baby back ribs. I heard it's good too.

Cebu, Day 3: Dinner sa Matias

2011-03-13T22:41:00.000+08:00

There are a lot of restaurants in Cebu.
Considered the most popular and most visited one's are those that are home based with home made food, just like Matias along A.S. Fortuna St.

They serve everything, grilled!

They have this soup which I forgot the name

Balbacua that Marvin has craved for ever since we've tried.
Ubos na nung dumating kami pero kahit sabaw na lang, go pa rin.

Native Rice called Pusot
(pronounced fast, like puson)

Nakakagutom pa din!

Cebu, Day 3

2011-03-13T15:23:00.001+08:00

We didn't think twice of returning to Cebu proper despite the Sun shining today. We just don't want to risk it. Funny, when a Ferry arrived, me mga passengers pa din na sakay. They weren't worried at all about the Tsunami threat? Kunsabagay, sabi naman hnd daw aabot saten eh.

We paid our respect at the Basilica Sto Niño, the biggest church I know in Cebu.
just look at the attendees.

Beside the church is the famous Magellan's Cross

Since we need to get some pasalubong, we opted not to go to Carbon Market but head to Taboan instead. The market was very busy!

Famous in Taboan and Carbon Market are Danggit, Dried pusit and all other dried and flavored fish.

Bantayan Island, Day 3, Sun!

2011-03-13T08:12:00.000+08:00

Aww, the sun shone brightly on our third day at Bantayan, the day we were supposed to leave for Cebu proper. Instead of having breakfast, I immediately changed and run to the waters.

I need some tan, LOL.

Anyway, it was low tide then. The water was very shallow, hence the color of the water. The sand mixed with rocks colors the water brown... but it's very white sand here.

I didn't get to dip in the water much because we have to leave soon as the weather might change again and we end up stuck here in the island. Besides, I have a class tomorrow!

Bantayan Island, Day 2, Play!

2011-03-12T21:10:00.000+08:00

I was on the lookout if the weather will turn to any more OK. My patience was ultimately tested when I'm about to give up and just bring umbrella, just so we can stroll. But the rain stopped although the wind was still mad.

We hurriedly changed clothes, actually I was the one who was in a hurry and very excited with the change of weather, and ran to the shore. Good thing Tristan Resort is super beachfront. No further walking needed.

PLAY!!!

we found so many little friends on the shore. A lot of them were just brought here by the current. They kept digging the soft sand until they're burrowed. In samar, we call this UMANG

The ride that got us around the streets of Sta. Fe

First Destination, Ogtong Cave in Ogtong Beach Resort
with an entrance of Php100, we got a dip in their pool and beach

towards their Ogtong Cave
swimming isn't allowed because of the Tsunami threat, they're being safe. So, pictures only

Here's the beachfront

We found a little white friend on our way back.
Marvin thought this is a spider :p
It's TINY crab, I suppose. crablet? :p

Our background is a sandbar that gets formed in different places depending on the season.

We're enjoying Bantayan despite the rain!
We actually went back to our resort when the rain poured heavily.

Bantayan Island, Marvin's Birthday!

2011-03-12T21:02:00.001+08:00

I brought with me a party popper and several balloons. I was supposed to bring a lot but I was thinking in case the security people at the airport would took it, sayang naman.

I was very successful in keeping the balloons and popper from Marvin. He didn't know I brought stuff until we used it na. The resort was very accommodating in helping me inflate the balloons while I distract Marvin, which apparently didn't work quite well. Kasi, nahuli nia habang nagkakabit sila ate ng lobo, LOL.

Laughtrip!

you wanna see how strong the waves are?

Our day concluded with a hearty meal courtesy of the owner. She gave us free (square) pizza! Very generous, salamat Tita Nancy! (who, later I learned is a Tita of my new student in class. Nge!)

Bantayan Island, Day 2 Breakfast

2011-03-12T07:21:00.000+08:00

Finally, after waiting for almost forever, my pics have posted.

It was still soo windy in Bantayan. I was silently very conscious of the rising tide and the waves so i tend to look outside and observe if the tides would go anymore higher. Despite the Tsunami news, windy welcome and now.. rain, Marvin and I slept through the night peacefully. We hoped and prayed that tomorrow brings a better day.

I awoke to the heavy breeze and rain. It's still raining and it's still very windy. But I know we have to make the most of our stay or else.. it'll be totally wasted.

To start off the day, we want to fill our stomach with their food as we heard it's really good.

everthing indoors

Marvin's American Breakfast

My Mexican Styled Omelet that Marvin super liked

The breakfast for me was perfect. Almost all their food is priced at Php200.00 which I think is a little pricey. But in an island like this, I think being able to cook and prepare a food close to home is good enough.. so we didn't bother with the 200.00, LOL.

Pray for Japan

2011-03-11T20:30:00.000+08:00

I wasn't in Manila when this happened and I didn't have access to television when the world was busy witnessing this catastrophic disaster. All I heard was the aftermath it left behind. And I didn't have to witness how the tsunami striked, the result was enough.

All I wanna do is pray for mankind. Please do the same.

Bantayan Island, Welcome, Day 1

2011-03-11T11:19:00.002+08:00

To celebrate Marvin's birthday, we decided to push through with our Cebu Escapade. Because of our vouchers, we didn't pay a single penny on our airfare.

We left Manila at 6AM and landed in Mactan, Cebu around 7:15A. We took a cab from the Airport going to the North Bus Terminal that will bring us to port Hagnaya. I was teasing Marvin that there's no aircon bus although I didn't really mean it. He just can't take ordinary buses. He's a sucker of anything cold. Much to our surprise, airconditioned buses leave at specific times with wide gap in between. In short, we took an ordinary one. :)

We were tweeting, checking FB and making the most out of the ride. Good thing it rained a little, if not, we'll look like Espasol right after the ride. The entire bus travel roughly took 3.25 hours. It was very looooong.

After getting off at port Hagnaya, we waited for an hour or so because the Ferry officials refuse to travel to port Sta. Fe due to strong winds and tide

here's the famous bridge that connects CEBU and MACTAN

When we arrived at Sta. Fe, it was really windy. It wasn't just bad hair day. Look at the lona, that was because of the wind.

To kill some time, since we can't play and swim, we walked around the vicinity of Sta. Fe
we found some interesting restaurants although i didn't get to take a picture of all of them

When we got tired, we had salad and Sinigang na Baboy :)

if not so low tide, you'll love the water.
sand tends to color the water brown if it's low tide

Movie Day: I am Number Four, Burlesque

2011-03-06T14:52:00.004+08:00

*warning: a little spoiler ahead*

I was able to see the movie "I am Number Four" yesterday. Hmmm, What do I think?

The movie fairly tried to be close to the book. There were parts that were changed to be able to fit it into almost 2hours. The only part I did not like was the fact that Six is fireproof.. cmon! that should be Four. Oh well, with 6 's number of appearance in the movie, I thought she was the main 'bida'. LOL.

But this part was just sooooooooooooo sexy!

I hope I can wear leather ensemble and ride a Ducati too, siyet!

And Sarah (in character), Four's love interest is soooo lame in the movie. After all the running, she was still prim-and-proper. Gosh.

Another movie I got to watch yesterday was Burlesque. It was sooooooooo good. There were just wonderful performances/production numbers. I think it was better than 'Dream Girls'; well only because talagang production number every time. I uber like! and although Kristen Bell was kinda antagonist in the movie, I liked seeing her dance. Medyo naguluhan lang ako sa stage nila, halatang hindi pare-pareho. haha.

But overall, I enjoyed!

Don't miss it, to see what I mean!

Kuya's Birthday: 2011

2011-02-27T21:04:00.000+08:00

Happy Birthday to my KUYA!

Daan kayo sa bahay if you have time. :)

me handa si Kae last time, ngayon naman si Kuya.. parang ayoko sumunod. Hahahaha.

Star Power first ever Winner

2011-02-21T15:42:00.003+08:00

Here are the five finalists of Star Power from L-R: Monica, Angeline, K-la, Krissel and Akiko

who belted, danced and sang their hearts out for the show's finale

but there could only be ONE..

Angeline won and was declared the first ever Star Power Winner.

Congratulations!!

Another Win!

2011-02-20T21:43:00.002+08:00

Another exciting WIN for the PINOYS. Mabuhay ka!

I am Number Four - MOVIE

2011-02-18T22:02:00.000+08:00

Here's the movie version, to be shown next week.

Valentines: 2011

2011-02-15T15:32:00.002+08:00

I thought I wouldn't get anything this year, because I know it's a little tagtuyot.

But I was surprised when I got my flowers around 5AM. Sabi ko nga, mura na siguro flowers after Valentines? hehe. But thanks hon, so much!

ps - I didn't have my camera so this was just taken using my BB.

Happy Valentines to All! :)

Hachiko: A Dog Story

2011-02-13T20:56:00.005+08:00

To all dog lovers out there.

Out of mere boredom, I switched to HBO today, since 11AM. I need a non stop movie to keep me company because I'm home alone.

And I'm happy that I did.

Hachiko (the name of the dog and the title of the movie), is an american adaptation of an old Japanese movie about dog loyalty. He's an Akita breed. A professor named Parker found a lost puppy, brought it home and eventually fell in love with him. His wife didn't like to have a dog at first but eventually gave in when his husband found joy through the puppy. Hachiko wouldn't play fetch but he always send Parker to the train station. Every 5PM Hachiko would go back and wait for the arrival of Parker, everyday. Everyone else notices the relationship of Parker and the dog, so Hachiko was fairly popular as Parker. One day, Hachiko played fetch, for the first time, with his master while at the train station. When Parker finally had to enter the station to catch the train, Hachiko barked and barked as if not wanting his master to leave. That same day, at school, Parker died of heart attack. Like all the days before, Hachiko awaited at the train station for his master that never showed up.

Eventually, Parker's wife, Cate had to move so she gave Hachiko to her daughter, Andy, who lived somewhere else. Hachiko ran away on the first day in a different house and returned to the train station where he waited for his master. Andy found Hachiko the next day and brought him home. Hachi would just run away like the other day so they figured to do whatever he wants. Years pass and Hachiko still waits at the train station.

Cate, was told what Hachi has been doing so he visited the train station. She was stunned to see Hachi, old, dirty and weak but still maintaining his vigil. Overcame, Cate sits and waits for the next train with him. At home, Cate tells his grandson about Hachi. That night, Hachi makes his way to his usual spot, where he lies down and falls asleep for the last time. Dreaming of his master, and later sees a vision of Parker who picks him up in a joyous reunion before their spirits rise to heaven. (last part came from Wiki)

.. a perfect love story this valentine's day.

By the way, this is a real story that happened in Japan. Hachi has a statue too.

Buffalo, New York!

2011-02-03T22:12:00.000+08:00

Buffalo New York Skyline

I just heard this opportunity. Really, it sounds so promising and New York? Sure! but I guess not now? I would rather stay and be promoted than leave again.

Thank you for thinking of me though, it means a lot.

Let's see how others would do eh?

Baguio Weekend

2011-01-30T21:24:00.000+08:00

come to think of it, the team didn't go anywhere. We just walked the night market of Session Road, went to Camp John Hay for Starbucks, a little trip to Manor Hotel to get bread, supposedly Strawberry picking in the farm but ended up buying more pasalubong and cheap vegetables at the highest peak I've been to, plus a short stop at Good Shepherd.

We arrived Saturday morning and went home Monday of 2AM. I guess this trip was more of getting away with work for a while and trying to find a cold weather (like our out of the country trip last year)

... it was still a worthy weekend though.

Summer Plan 2011

2011-01-11T21:09:00.004+08:00

My family and I earned 7 free domestic round trip tickets during our Boracay Trip last October, and so I've been scouting an affordable summer getaway for all of us.

My initial choices were Boracay (again), Cebu, Bohol and Palawan.

They were pretty expensive and won't meet my criteria of an ideal family summer, until I talked to a friend of mine, Hazel, who's been to the northernmost and southernmost places of the country. So I seriously took her advice (since I know she can compare islands and experiences now) and considered going to Cebu. After some reading, I grabbed the phone and dialed Cebu Pac!

We are booked on March 11 to fly to Cebu (Bantayan Island) and stay in Budyong Beach Resort. We'll try to enjoy the serenity of this calm place, sort of Holiday weekend na rin.

Let's hope and pray we won't waste the free voucher. :)

Rina got Hitched!!

2011-01-08T22:54:00.003+08:00

If getting married is a contest based on 'element of surprise', Rina will definitely bag the Grand Prize.

Actually and honestly, I wasn't surprised. I know, deep in her, she wants to be married soon. I just didn't realize she thought of it like two days ago?

Nonetheless, I am genuinely happy for her. She was able to pull it together, just like she wants it - people she loves, her family, simple and impromptu wedding. I bet she would have brought her dogs if it's possible.

Go and visit her facebook, these pics may not justify how it all went, but let me try :)

wedding done in more or less 30 minutes! :)

she doesn't like GRAND, but her stones show otherwise ;)

btw, i gave her nothing but flowers .. and she liked 'em

she was as always playful, this time.. over the top happy as Mrs. Guangco

the happy and supportive family .. plus one

we wouldn't be SISTERS if we won't attend

two married.. 3 to go, 1 scheduled on March

haha, pressure ito

CONGRATS to the newlyweds.

BEST WISHES on your new life Sis! :)

I am Number Four

2011-01-06T15:38:00.004+08:00

I'm starting my new book craze this year with I AM NUMBER FOUR. The movie is coming your way on Feb 18, 2011. So better finish the book early. :D

I'm on Chapter 7 still but the story is easy to follow and very interesting.

Here's a very short plot from Wikipedia:

Nine infant aliens, who closely resemble humans, flee their home planet, Lorien, to hide on Earth. An invading species, the Mogadorians, have destroyed their planet, and followed them to Earth to hunt them down. Each of the nine aliens is given a guardian and will develop superhuman powers as they become adults. They are each assigned a number. These last children of Lorien can only be killed in the sequence of their numbers.^[2] Numbers One, Two, and Three have been killed so far.
Number Four (Alex Pettyfer), also named John Smith, moves to Paradise, Ohio, disguised as an American high school student.^[3] He makes a friend, Sarah Hart (Dianna Agron), a sweet Midwestern girl who is a photographer. After being on the run his whole life, Number Four falls in love and now has something to stand up and fight for.

I have yet to get my hands on Harry Potter, hantagal ko bumili.. hehe.

My Third Life

2011-01-05T14:54:00.004+08:00

I got into a bus accident yesterday.

I'm a regular commuter. Since my family moved to rent a house here in LP, I have been a regular bus passenger. My parents, specially my mother doesn't want us to commute in the wee hours of the morning but today, I thought i don't have any other option but to leave home at 2AM.

By 3AM, I was already onboard an Ortigas bus, cruising along EDSA. About 3:15, our bus hit the rear of another bus. I was sitting on the first row by the door. Without the railing in front of me, I could have gone right through the dashboard onto the other bus, maybe hit my head, my face? By the time I knew what happened, both of my hands were already bleeding from shattered glass. I immediately contacted my officemates so they could reach Marvin.

I brought myself to Medical City where the doctor told me my hands are ok. Apart from a glass taken out of my right ring finger, abrasions on my right hand, arm bruises, I was perfectly well.

My life was again spared. Thank you Lord.

Please take extra precaution when driving and commuting.

Stay Safe everyone.

Catching Up Again

2011-01-03T14:51:00.001+08:00

ok. so please allow me to back track a little and fill you in on what happened with my life last December, including the holidays. :)

the posts below, starting DECEMBER are all back track posts. :)

Happy Blogging.

Welcome 2011

2011-01-01T16:01:00.000+08:00

Happy New Year Everyone!!

CHEERS to 2011!!

Grand Lotto 6/55

2010-11-15T15:50:00.005+08:00

Ang sarap sigurong tumama sa lotto.. half a billion is up for grabs ladies and gentlemen.. only if you know the exact 6 winning numbers in one combination.

And I will admit, I've been trying my luck too. Sayang naman,,

Sa office naman, sa team naman, me taga taya. Nakakakaloka, bawal ma-miss ang lotto!! Goodluck everyone.

TODAY I WILL BE A MILLIONAIRE!!! (Law of Attraction)

Heal Me Lord

2010-11-09T15:28:00.000+08:00

The word STRESS is an understatement. I feel like Atlas with the world on my shoulder. Ever since I moved to the third floor, my world has changed. I am tied to the office I'm temporarily situated in. Talk about hundreds of emails everyday that even if I render 15 hours, it still not enough. Back to back to back worries and problems, every single day. Previous booobooos hunt all of us. Because of all those troubles, I've been very bad to some people and highly a bitch.

Heal me Lord, I don't want to be like them.

But soon, it'll be over. Thank goodness.

SM Alumni Homecoming 2010

2010-10-17T22:35:00.002+08:00

It's been 6 years since my graduation, 10 years since I got the good news that I was accepted as an SM Scholar.

SM changed my life and my future. To this day, I am still very thankful for the opportunity that was given to me. I may not have met the friends I keep now, I may not have the same education as I had during college, I may be not working and not earning the same if not for SM. They didn't do everything for me, but their help and support was enough for me to see the bright future ahead.

To Mr. and Mrs. Henry Sy and Family; who probably will never see this post, THANK YOU from me and my family. Our prayers for a long life ahead. May your family continue to be good Samaritans to all the Filipinos who need support in their education.

Mabuhay SM Foundation, till next Homecoming!

Boracay, Post Trip

2010-10-05T16:00:00.000+08:00

Well well well.

God is good eh? Since Cebu Pac transferred our flight from Caticlan to Kalibo, they gave us free round trip domestic tickets for 7! Isn't that just wonderful? That means, we can travel anywhere in the Philippines and we all we just have to worry about is the hotel.

We will go back to Boracay, or may be Palawan this coming summer. Can't wait! More tan lines!!!

But allow me to thank the LORD for providing us. We can't make it happen without his intervention, always. Thank you to Las Brisas for taking care of us; they've accommodated so much of our requests and services, thank you to Southwest which my father found so refreshing that someone else gets to bring his bag for him, hahaha, thank you to Ellen of Jony's for her hospitality and for taking care of us. Thank you to my family and Marvin and Timo for making our stay just wonderful.

I love life!!

Boracay 2010

2010-10-04T12:07:00.001+08:00

My sister once told me that we should start thinking of what we should give our parents on their upcoming 25th Wedding Anniversary - the ideas were Boracay, Singapore, HongKong, hotel overnight for all of us.

Well, you have a good guess of what we gave them, right? We planned this basically May or June of this year. Before we relocated here in Las Pinas, we have tickets and hotel reservations ready. I pitched in and paid for the cost of the tickets while my siblings and I shared the accommodation costs. Since this was a gift, my parents didn't know anything till late August. Come September, there were second thoughts from them whether or not to join. They were worried about food costs, and so many things that basically they're saying is - sayang ang pera.

Maybe they have come to the realization that I was a little angry at them so they decided to just go (hehehe). This is our first time here! :)

I can't tell you HOW MUCH my parents loved Boracay, especially my father. They so loved it that my father literally sleeps on the beach. You'll find him anytime, as in any time of the day, walking nowhere but the waters and the sand. He started loving pictures too. He wanted to have his picture taken just about anywhere. I'm so haaaaaaaapy. :)

This is FAMILY and LIFE

I love it!

Good or Bad?

2010-09-22T21:57:00.000+08:00

Wow, today I officially embark onto another role. Role that I don't think I've been prepared for. Yeah, I may be a level 2 at this point but I've never been exposed to such decision making or managerial roles.

I'm scared. I always strive to be successful in everything I do, and even if this is the first time, I don't want to fail. Help me God to make it in this interim role. If not, don't let people laugh at my mistakes.

Well, if I don't make it, I will not be fired. I still get to do the things I do before, and be paid, the usual. But it will hurt my career though. Hehe. Anyway, I will just do the things I have to.
Have mercy!

BRB

2010-09-15T11:53:00.000+08:00

I know I've been out of the blogosphere again. Sorry, just didn't have the means to.
But I'm back, hopefully for consistently a good time.

Hello Friends! Hello World!

HongKong Day 4: MongKok

2010-08-27T23:44:00.000+08:00

We don't have anything else in our itinerary list. We failed to tour some other places but we didn't feel bad at all. We can't squeeze our time in, so we're thankful that we're able to spend wisely these past few days.

Today, with Marvin's parents, we went to MongKok for a little shopping. Beware though, if you don't know how to haggle, you'll be paying a lot more. It ain't cheap here contrary to what they're saying.

After shopping, the last leg of our trip was spent in HongKong Bay at the Avenue of Stars

this is where we watched the Symphony of Lights, our point and shoot is not that advanced, it could have been better perhaps..

If not for the hostage incident and our relationship with HK now, I would have planned our trip back as early as now! :)

HongKong Day 3: Food & Conclusion

2010-08-26T19:36:00.000+08:00

I can't tell you how we found Disneyland to be expensive, of course including the food.
But, we're very happy to have been satisfied of our day. I would have regrets if we didn't push for this trip or this Disneyland experience. Glad we made it through the day! :)

we brought this brown mickey food holder, home. haha.

even the toothpick is packed with Disneyland label on it

our day concluded with a train ride that will go around the resort.
we just wanted to rest our tired legs and feet before we head home

I pray we all can go to Nevada for a bigger Disneyland Experience.

HongKong Day 3: Disney Inside 2

2010-08-26T14:28:00.000+08:00

What else did we do in Disneyland?

i met mickey mouse!

and goofy

this was my favorite part. this is a simple 3D show that amazed me so much. Disney used live water, air, perfume, etc so everyone is whisked to reality more than being there and watching 3D. Example, we were watching Jasmine and Aladdin take their magic carpet, it was sooo windy and I can feel the air blowing - feels like we're with them. Another one was when donald duck tipped while holding a bucket of water, we got a fair amount of splash.. absolutely amazing.. :)

We took different rides, one of which was an inside roller coaster that made me wish I didn't try it. Nah, I enjoyed a little - it was just super scary. There was a warning outside that if you have heart problems, etc etc; you are not supposed to ride. There was also this Stitch Encounter where we get to see and talk to stitch LIVE, very impromptu that the kids thought stitch is just in front of them.

Ha! By now we are dead tired. Time for a great meal. :)

HongKong Day 3: Disney Inside

2010-08-26T11:09:00.000+08:00

We don't know what's waiting for us inside. We can only navigate as much as the map tells us. So we kinda walk and stop if we see something that interests us.

we stopped by the Disney store where you could get all stuff Disney, of course!
a little expensive though. we'll we're a budget traveler so we only got a few things that will remind us that we were here once :)

our first tour, was that of ADVENTURELAND. We saw Tarzan's tree house here, we rode a boat, and saw some live shows

where to next??
oh, right. Disneyland is divided into three major areas, Adventureland, Tomorrowland and Fantasyland

Here's the facade to the Fantasyland.
We were greeted by castles, niches of different characters like pooh, carousel rides and mad hatters tea cup ride :)

Tomorrowland is all about buzz lightyear, stitch, and others :)

Since it's summer, we had the chance to see their Summer Parade.

We were on the wet side of the street. Disneyland has instructions and warning signs everywhere that if you want to stay dry, avoid the wet lane - basically that's where the parade is headed.

Fun Fun Stuff!

Thanks to Myds who told us to bring extra clothes. We came prepared. And the water was a relief from the heat.

HongKong Day 3: to Disneyland

2010-08-26T10:52:00.000+08:00

Again, the way to Disneyland is fairly easy. With its popularity, it's not even hard to get directions. We took the MTR station from Tsim Sha Tsui going to the Disneyland Resort line. We transferred and took different MTR lines, but it wasn't difficult at all. Much like our MRT here, both trains (going to different directions) are on the same platform, so alight from the other, hop or run, and aboard the other train - you have to read though.

So from the red line, we transferred to orange line at Lai King, then hopped on to pink line via Sunny Bay

the train itself was soooooo cool because you know it's Disney. this MTR is made specially for disneyland. the train has every character inside. you don't have to spot the hidden mickey, it's everywhere!

WELCOME!!

HongKong Day 3: Breakfast

2010-08-26T08:18:00.000+08:00

Our Day 3! is DISNEYLAND :)

But before that, since Disneyland opens around 9 or 10, it's just proper to have some breakfast first. We bet everything there is expensive.

didn't i tell you that they can prepare any toppings for their noodles?

here's my trying to be american-breakfast

We took the MTR at TsimShaTsui Station near our hotel, and near the restaurant where we had breakfast

Off to DISNEYLAND!! :)

HongKong Day 2: Ngong Ping 360

2010-08-25T13:03:00.002+08:00

Ngong Ping 360 I believe is the term for the cable car. 360 because you can see HongKong on a different perspective. I was always under the impression that HongKong is full of tall building, no water at all (maybe at they shore, of course), and that I wouldn't get to see mountains, but I was wrong.

From Tsimshatsui, or Laguna City, you can take two means of transportation to Ngong Ping, fairly easy. You may take a bus or ride an MTR. Buses in HK have specific routes and they are numbered, so ride the appropriate bus that would pass Tung Chung, make a decent walk - and you're all good. If you decided to ride the MTR, Ngong Ping is very accessible, just get off at the last red line (I think) station which is Tung Chung.

with English signs, you will never get lost

can you tell that I'm a little scared? i'm afraid of heights and i thought i can do this without any support, apparently not. riding the cable car was not anything I imagined. it was soooooo way up high, with altitude, wind, not to mention the height - I was very sweaty! I even thought we can ride the glass car, where the floor is made of glass and you can see the land/sea through it! oh no! i'll probably faint!

the end of the cable car is Ngong Ping Village where you can eat, watch some show they have lined up and basically take pictures.

near the end of it is a stairway leading to the giant Buddha. A couple walks more and you'll be in the monks village. I call this one a sacrificial walk - not more than 200 steps I believe.

it's a shame if we failed to reach the top. the view was absolutely stunning.

We feel refreshed about the experience.
Thank you Lord.

HongKong Day 2: Breakfast

2010-08-25T09:52:00.000+08:00

Today, we decided to visit Ngong Ping 360 and the Buddha. I have no expectations of the cable car. I just think it's fun to ride one so I kept blabbing about it.

We found a very neat place beside Ramada where they serve good breakfast. We know this is where we will be eating for the rest of our stay. I know most of you would think that we should have explored the streets more and probably try street food. But no thanks. I would rather stay safe for my own stomach and health.

very cheap breakfast selection. this is made of rice noodle, with egg and pork. they make anything with noodles!! you can top it with meat loaf, pork, chicken, you name it.

this is plain old instant noodle with pork on the side (not topping)

I liked it :)

HongKong Day 1: Dinner

2010-08-24T23:42:00.000+08:00

After we settled our bags to our new hotel, we scouted and walked around the streets of Cameron, and basically the area of Tsimshatsui, Kowloon. I can probably blog HK streets some other time. It's wonderful how easy and accessible everything is. It's more like Melbourne where everything is on the grid, easy to find, laid out in front of you. However, I don't think Melbourne has dark streets and alleys for - I don't know whatever reason.

Anyway, you know I normally blog about food so here's how our first dinner looks like. I don't know the names so I'm not going to label them. Marvin and I don't eat in places where there is no English equivalent of their menu or if there are no pictures. Because they won't translate it for us! Anyway, we didn't enjoy this as much, and kind of expensive for both of us. The only satisfying meal here is the one in the middle that you get to dip in peanut sauce.

looks like lechon paksiw to me, but didn't taste quite well. the odd round thing on top is a mushroom.. a mushroom

this soup was very tasty but kinda odd not to taste like milk, don't ask me what they put in there

It's now time to hit the sack :)

HongKong 2010: Day 1

2010-08-24T22:12:00.000+08:00

I thank my sponsor (StarTek) for making me fly to the west several times in return earning me several PAL Miles points. And 2 months ago, I realized my Mabuhay Miles are expiring so I have to use it if I don't want it to go to waste.

Since Marvin is flying to HK to visit his pregnant sister, I decided I could join too considering I now just have to worry about accommodation.

So after the proposal happening on the 21st which I still have to blog, and the HongKong hostage that happened yesterday (of all days!!!); today is when I fly to HongKong.

My Day 1 was actually more of traveling, getting to the HK International Airport, meeting Marvin and picking me up, riding the two level bus, taking an hour (i think) of travel to Laguna City where his sister is residing.

After the short visit to her sister, where his family is staying too, we moved to a hotel to settle for the night. Ramada was pretty expensive but we didn't have a choice as we didn't pre-book anything. We thought we could just find another place tomorrow.

It wasn't so bad really. We just had real trouble of speaking and talking to people - not that they can't understand English, but the way they talk isn't neutral like us. Their Chinese accent is so thick, most of the time, they don't speak English. You have to find ways to communicate - oh, you'll know what I mean, try to visit them now. :)

Lost Symbol

2010-08-12T18:22:00.000+08:00

My friends at work are going 'gaga' over reading. It's quite interesting to know that now.. we are exchanging our book collections as we continue to read.

We will establish a library in the office soon, so stay tuned! :D

My latest read by the way is Lost Symbol by Dan Brown. It's been a while since I've last read his work. I wasn't disappointed. A lot of people are claiming that they weren't moved or they didn't like this one as much as the previous one's. Well, he could have saved trees by not publishing this work. Hehe. Sobra noh. LOL

Anyway, I like how he writes his stuff but this one seems like a very looooong lecture to me. Not a waste at all - but could be improved. Whoah!! I'm not an editor, just one of his readers. :)

welcome to LP

2010-08-08T18:15:00.000+08:00

Today, my family moved in to a new location..

We didn't ditch our old house for 17 years as my brother would still stay there to easily report to and from work.

I'm not hoping that it's not a nice welcome because we hit the electrical wiring, cable and phone of our neighbor. Our damn truck was too high and their cable was very low - gawd. A lot to look forward to next week. I'm pretty sure we have to pay for all the damages.

I'll keep you all posted.

Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

2010-08-07T16:24:00.003+08:00

..was the longest book I have in my hands before I finished it. Took me a couple of weeks I believe as the first half was dragging to go further. But I'm happy I was able to finish it.

Red Pyramid is a good read if you're into Egypts and their stuff, pyramids, obelisks, magics?, and their Gods. I don't know them, sorry. I enjoyed Percy Jackson and the Olympians because of Greek Mythology which was replaced by Egyptian Gods and Goddesses that I'm totally unaware of. I guess their names are different but their the same gods - ugh. yeah.

Again, I'm hoping to buy HP this December which I totally doubt.. pero malay naten. Until then, I'll continuously post whatever books I get to read. :)

So... what have you read lately, maybe I would like that too..

uhm, hello?

2010-08-07T01:37:00.002+08:00

I can't believe it's not been a month! I thought my last post has cobwebs already.

Actually, I wasn't that busy. I was just occupied by the fact that we're moving out of Tondo.. real soon!

So I've been house-hunting: looking for rent to owns, for rents, for sale, etc etc and we almost got a 5-bedroom house for 10k per month but our contact says the sister's owner abroad disagreed to have it leased after a week of waiting, too bad. Anyway, I guess we got lucky because our broker got us a decent house! I'll post that soon.

I've been reading too! I just finished reading Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan. His books are close to Harry Potter, only that his includes Gods. I'm still waiting for the fifth book of Percy Jackson and the Olympians. I prefer to stick with trade paper back copy and our bookstores have hard bound only. My next book in line is Lost Symbol, c/o a friend who said I should read it. After that, maybe re-read the 'The Alchemist' c/o my Manager. After that maybe I can start the sexy vampire books of JC Lewis ba yun. My friend has been asking me to read it. The last time I went to National - they don't have stocks of the first book.

I've been planning our trip too! HongKong travel is very very close, but I'm more excited about the Boracay Trip that we're throwing our parents. Maybe my stubborn father would be soooooo conscious again of the expenses considering of our move-in to Las Pinas. Who cares! hahaha, we're spending Pa not you, hehe. :)

O siya, I'll catch up again over the weekend and post the details of our move.

Ciao!!

Greenwich Pasta

2010-07-11T15:16:00.003+08:00

Greenwich's Shrimp Aglio Olio has arrived! A must try!

read here

StarTek Eclipse Film Showing

2010-07-03T23:42:00.000+08:00

marvin, hakkai, me, cadburry, myda

I love this weekend activity!

Amongst all the things that I love being free, movie passes/ tickets is one of those. Today, training team spearheaded the committee on Eclipse Film Showing at Promenade Greenhills, Cinema 5.

I towed Marvin with me hoping he could get a free movie pass too since he has not seen it with me. I think even if he'd seen it alone, I would love to sit by him so we could watch it together. Anyway, he was able to get in since quite a number of people did not show up. I would glance his way from time to time thinking if he understands what was happening - hehe... so I could explain more in detail.

It was a little crazy too because everybody almost know everyone else so when it's awkward time in the movie, or there's a scene on something that you would want to scream or comment on - umiingay sa sinehan. I love it. It means the audience is alive. It was also a plus that we had the cinema to StarTek only so we can almost do whatever we want - magingay, magtawanan. :)

Thank you StarTek!!

Theme Days: Back to School Fair

2010-07-02T16:28:00.001+08:00

We all know that I'm a sucker for costumes, dressing, etc. so me dressing up like a school girl wouldn't surprise you, would it?

So this is our theme for July. I recycled my blouse from last year and borrowed my sister's skirt. I bought a white school uniform from SM but I didn't get to wear it..hehe

i wanted pigtails so i had them fix my hair

do you remember booths back in elementary and high school?

you can bring anybody and kiss them here!

Happy Back to School!

Eclipse 2010

2010-06-30T17:53:00.000+08:00

I've been waiting for this ever since New Moon was released. With no exaggeration, I've read the book more than 5 times I think so I could re-live their love all over again. Me ganon? I guess I'm a hopeless romantic and a sucker for good ol' love stories - walang kokontra.

I watched Eclipse on its premier-midnight screening at Sta. Lucia Mall with my manager. She graciously extended her tickets to me so we could watch. Weeeeeeeeeee, happy!!

My initial assessment? I liked the movie. There were few things that they could have done differently but there were also scenes that they changed which for me sold more, than the book. I can't remember what they really focused on (which tells me I have to watch it again, ehem July 3).. in the book, it was about Bella's reluctance to get married so Edward and her compromised. The compromised concept continued and was used again when Bella asked Edward to sit out of the fight. And the fight of course between Jacob and Edward over Bella, which would lead to Jacob's disappearance in Breaking Dawn.

I liked the emotions involved in the movie altogether - family, love and sacrifices. The fight scenes are waaaaaaaaay better now.

Oh well, my thoughts are everywhere - I'll watch it again and I'll be thorough about it the next time.

Don't fail to watch it!

Which Greek God are You?

2010-06-28T15:34:00.003+08:00

DAPHNE AND APOLLO

I am APOLLO.

Apollo is the son of ZEUS and LETO. His twin sister is Artemis. He is the god of music, playing a golden lyre. The Archer, far shooting with a silver bow. The God of Healing who taught man medicine. The God of Light. The God of Truth, who can not speak a lie. One of Apollo's more important daily tasks is to harness his chariot with four horses and drive the Sun across the sky. He is famous for his oracle at Delphi. People traveled to it from all over the greek world to devine the future. His tree was the Laurel. The crow is his bird. The dolphin is his animal.

Read Percy Jackson and the Olympian, you'll love it. :)

Bolder!!

2010-06-27T09:36:00.002+08:00

Our Corregidor Adventure with the client last year. Ever since, I've been here 3x - all to babysit our american visitors.

Excuse my post.
Just something to hold on to.

Ang itim ko pa at sobrang taba. haha. (kala mo naman payat na now!)

Ubercab!

2010-06-26T13:21:00.004+08:00

This was a typical Saturday morning in a cab, going to meet Marvin, when I saw something in front of me between the driver seat and the passenger seat.

Automatically, I knew it was some sort of a power supply but I wondered why it was fastened. I followed where it was connected - maybe it's powering up the meter or something. Apparently, after few seconds of scrutinizing it, I failed to know what it was for; I didn't find any cables.

Glancing to the right, a paper was posted at the back of the seat - which I initially thought was just a regular reminder to make sure mind your things, etc or advertisement, I saw the answer to my silly question. Ah! a power supply indeed, a service from RLC Ubercabs! the Uberplug!

I felt the need for shots so I immediately took my camera out and discreetly captured the evidence of the Uber Cab!

Now in case you're jammed in traffic and you badly needed 'power' to send those emails, and you don't have your blackberry with you - pray that you're in an UBER CAB so you can plug away!

Uber!! (ala melai)

Another One!!

2010-06-24T13:32:00.002+08:00

I feel like nagbubuhat ako ng bangko neto.. but anyway, hindi naman.. I just want to pat myself on the back for a job well done.

I got the Trainer of the Quarter again :)
with GC, book and certificate - for the second time. Sarap.

4 years and 10 months

2010-06-23T13:19:00.001+08:00

Sometimes even if you want your relationship to work and no matter how long you've been together; the uncertainties, difficulties, and your personal differences will always rise no matter what.

I'd say it's totally getting serious by the months. :)

Wait, I'm not blogging about that - I'm blogging about the upcoming trips I'll be having - out of the country and here too. Sssssshhhh. :)

here... and

here too. :)

sana matuloy!!!

Charice Pimpengco will definitely be in GLEE

2010-06-21T13:01:00.001+08:00

I overheard from the radio yesterday morning that Charice Pimpengco auditioned in Glee and was accepted. According to her twitter account (as per the news on the radio), "I tried to audition and I made it, Let's Party". I say she's very very blessed.

This is one of the reasons why I suddenly revived my blog. I wanted to be proud about something... again!!

It was briefly mentioned that Charice will play an exchange student.

I have not had the chance to watch this series.. again, but I know I've seen it couple of times in the US. Anyway, I wish Charice more power! :)

KKK and Movie watch

2010-06-07T12:25:00.000+08:00

Today, I was out in the mall with my sister and Marvin. We all met Michelle (an old friend of mine from Teletech) who now works in Qatar and was just visiting Manila.

We had a good lunch in KKK then headed to watch a movie - Sex and the City 2.

The movie was ok but the first one was waaaaaaay better.

I mean let's admit it, they were all prepared to launch the very first SATC that's why it's that special. They completed all their work - complete with story line, fashion, love, sex and comedy. It was absolutely fit for the big screen. With part2 - it didn't seem like it at all. I loved the places they went to and their fabulous clothes but the film doesn't have the heart of the first movie... sure this installment was comedic -- and nothing beyond that.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 4

2010-06-04T12:20:00.000+08:00

The Battle of the Labyrinth.

I don't know what that word is all about. Haha. I remember when my class was doing pictionary of some sort, someone drew this on the board and instantly someone else knew what it was - i had not one hell of a clue.

The story evolves in the search for the answer to this crazy maze made by a mortal who had long been alive; cheating death.

But I felt hanging in the open after I finished the book. The last installment in this series is not yet available in Trade Paperbook copy! waaaaaaah. It's available though as hardbound in PowerBooks.

Oh well, I know I have to be patient and wait for the copy I want.

Can't wait to read the last part. :)

Sex and The City 2 The Movie

2010-06-02T17:28:00.001+08:00

The sexiest comedy movie is back and I wish to watch this real soon! :)

Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 2

2010-06-01T17:16:00.000+08:00

... is entitled The Sea of Monsters.

I completed reading this second book over the weekend. Soon, I'll probably need glasses for astigmatism as I keep on reading on moving vehicles. I learned that I can read just about anywhere (LRT, bus, etc) because of my perfect visions; which I think will fail soon if I continue my bad habits.

I enjoy reading Mythology. My first lesson was during College when I borrowed this cute book from our Library. Ever since, I love hearing about Athena, Zeus, Poseidon, Hermes, Ares, and the rest of the clan! :)

Just like the first book, this second installment is full of adventure, humor, family love, self realization and acceptance.

I hope to get my hands on the third book soon! :)

Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 3

2010-06-01T12:11:00.001+08:00

in deep blue color is entitled The Titan's Curse.

Once again, Percy Jackson is up to the quest to strengthen the half-bloods territory and regain their advantage over the Lord of Time - Kronos.

I finished the book with such enthusiasm for Book 4 that I cannot even remember what I read - silly!

But really, one thing I know is that I don't have any regrets reading the book. So loving it!

Jejemon and Love??

2010-05-31T17:57:00.004+08:00

This wasn't an easy week.

Sometimes, in your perfectly loved world - something will happen eventually turning events to something you wouldn't like. Similarly, Marvin and I weren't in good terms. We had the coldest week ever.

This morning, I saw something in the fridge and opened it:

When I asked him, he said it should have said "You know how much I love you", I told him I guess it won't fit.
And the JEJEJE??? huh.

I don't jejemon. gosh. But I appreciated the cake. Thanks love.

Startek Summer Outing 2010

2010-05-30T17:23:00.002+08:00

Startek annually hold summer outings in different locations as a treat to all its hardworking employees.. Last year, I can't remember where they went because our team was in Ohio - enjoying the weather. :)

This year, I was compelled to join. My manager signed me up. Signing up and not going means you have to pay in return - so there's no other way but to show up. And I don't want to waste 1500 even I can pay - hehe. So I decided it wouldn't hurt to watch the people swim, enjoy the program and say hello's to my former students who I left in Makati (as you well know, I'm in our Ortigas branch now).

And again, I didn't have any intentions to swim; blame the monthly visit. But in the middle of the program, rain eventually poured, soaking everybody. It would be silly if we run and hide - this is a swimming outing after all.

Our outing was held in Fontana Hot Spring and Leisure Park in Pampanga. I'm having a hard time reading from their site, so feel free to educate yourself - http://fontanaleisureparks.com

The Training Team

Hakkai and Me

the rain!

no plans of swimming

** we used an underwater camera. apparently, the lens gets foggy when they are not totally dipped in water. **

This is the last summer outing this year.
Rainy Season is here.

Santacruzan 2010

2010-05-28T17:10:00.000+08:00

I've always wanted to wear ala-Imelda Marco's sleeves - but have not been able to. I thought I could during last year's Linggo ng Wika.. instead we wore a very simple skirt and kimona.

I remembered one of our US Visitor's even asked me to have a photo with him (nagmukha tuloy akong mascot). hehe.

Anyway, for our Santacruzan - since we don't know how to make paper flowers well, we decided, we'll make human flowers to escort Red Queen and MadHatter in Alice and Wonderland.
We actually won. But we decided to give up the 4k price because it wouldn't look really good that Support (we) won the event as we almost organized it. Not the entire team though but our beloved Manager. Even if the scores were a landslide to our advantage, we had to just give it up. We promised not to hold an event anymore if we're joining. hehe. :)

Congrats Team!!

Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 1

2010-05-26T09:31:00.000+08:00

entitled, The Lightning Thief.

I have a new book. :)

See, I'm not really a reader but I can get hooked when the material itself interests me. I mostly take someone's word (based on their 'reading' credibility and interest) on whether or not I'll get the book they have recommended. I'm done with Book 1 of the Mortal Instruments and thought to get Book 2 this week. However, I had second thoughts if this collection will be worth my money and time - I've read bad comments about it.. Maybe delaying it wouldn't hurt. It's not like Book 1 ended on a cliff-hanging note. And so when I was in the bookstore, I checked out Percy Jackson and the Olympians as recommended by my Manager. I remember seeing the trailer of this movie and I thought to watch it. If I see the movie as ok, I thought maybe the book will be even better.

I am hooked - very adventurous and totally animated. Now I probably would get all 7 Books of Harry Potter this December. At least if I can relate to this book, I'm thinking HP wouldn't be that nosebleed after all.

.. Couldn't wait to get my hands on Books 2-4!

Banchetto in Ortigas

2010-05-22T00:31:00.001+08:00

Street Food is very popular in the Philippines. Pagkain para sa masa. That's why we all grew up looking and eating kwek kweks, isaw, paa, betamax amongst so many others. Along the business streets of Makati and Ortigas - you certainly can find street food too.

I didn't know such place exists so when Marvin and I knew where it's located, we went ahead and tried it. Banchetto is located in Ortigas along Emerald Avenue. It's open every weekend (I think) every Friday evening to Saturday 11AM.

I got shy while taking pics so I don't have much
The place offers almost all kinds of food - mongolian, grilled, breakfast, soup to sweets and desserts plus a whole lot more

Here's what we ate this morning:

Monster Burger that looks truly inviting

nachos from 'Mexicanto'
hehe

Seafood Rice Mix in Teriyaki Sauce

Frankfurter with Tofu

Expect that the prices are a little more than your regular carenderia. After all, they're open during odd hours.

So.. see you here.

The Stone Cold Truth

2010-05-20T00:24:00.000+08:00

Here's what I'm busy reading about:

I'm a WWE follower so it's nice and different to read something like a biography and how Steve Austin came to the world of wrestling.

I love watching this man in the ring. Behind the fingers, the beers he's drinking in the ring, the cursing... I never thought that he's a family loving man... I say he deserves to marry a Filipina. :)

City Of Bones

2010-05-13T10:06:00.000+08:00

I have a new book - recently acquired this week. And I'm done reading it. Sigh. Next time I'll tell myself to finish it in 15 days so I can get another one when it's salary time. I'll end up purchasing out of my budget.

Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare is three-part book. City of Bones, City of Ashes and City of Glass are the first, second and third book respectively. The books will introduce you to an interesting different world. The world of shadowhunters, demons, downworlders, night children and warlocks that are all present in the world we live in.

Half-way through, I felt that the book is for kids. I wonder if this is how Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings were written. But of course, I haven't read those so I wouldn't really know. I read from a review too that Clare borrowed lines from Harry Potter books. Again I wouldn't know.
I would still like to continue up to the last book to see why the third book was a disappointment. Hehe, even if it might mean wasting money.

More books, more fun. :)

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-12T09:46:00.000+08:00

Happy Mom's Day to all the INAY's out there. Wala nang dadakila pa sa isang pagiging ina. mabuhay po kayo.

Love you Mama.

Here in the office, simple cupcakes we're given to all the moms.
syempre, meron ako - hahaha..

Tokyo Cafe in MOA

2010-05-11T17:56:00.000+08:00

I think I have a new favorite restaurant. Tokyo Cafe in MOA exudes simplicity. I had a good time on both days that I was there. The first time Marvin and I tried it out, we don't have our camera with us so I made a mental note that we have to come back here to take photos.

I am in love with their pasta selections, pizza and coffee mixes.

Please read here more.

Philippine Election 2010

2010-05-10T08:31:00.003+08:00

Today marks another milestone in the Philippine History. Our traditional pen and paper was replaced by an official list with all the candidates' names. The manual counting was replaced or you could also say 'will be' by a machine that promises to count the votes more efficiently and make this experience a better one for all.

I didn't know I had to re-register until the deadline was almost near, so in short... I failed. Sorry, I am not voting this year. I know, a shame - my vote will probably make a difference.

BUT TO ALL OF YOU OUT THERE WHO ARE REGISTERED and IS EQUIPPED TO VOTE

GO OUT AND VOTE!! MAKE YOUR CHOICE BE KNOWN AND HEARD.

God Bless the Philippines

The Time Traveler's Wife

2010-05-09T22:17:00.003+08:00

I initially wanted to watch this story in the big screen; the title itself is very interesting; Until my manager said the book is really good. So instead of heading to the cinema when the movie was released - I pushed myself to get this book last Christmas; this is one of the many books I purchased last December.

I have nothing but good words for this art. It was a page turner for me when I started; although a little dragging in some scenes. Nonetheless, I enjoyed reading it. The story itself was one of a kind - romantic, silly and true. I cried while reading the last 4 chapters; it was when Henry feels he's dying, Clare reading the letter and Henry seeing Clare when she's 82.

Love is love, defied by age & physical presence, time is nothing.

Today I became a Chef

2010-05-07T23:26:00.000+08:00

Today marks the end of our Product Training.

My class gave me a memento with their personal words of gratitude and a bouquet. Sweet, thanks.

We had a theme day to celebrate Labor's Day (May 7) and it happened during our last day. The class thought of a reunion - so we all dressed up as we want to be, and then pretend that this is a reunion of high school students. It all ended up pretty well - actually, we were declared as the winner. :)

if you can remember, i was dressed like a Barista last year

today I wanted to be someone else :)

a CHEF nonetheless!!

here are my students este co-chefs, dressed as we should be :)

I am 27!

2010-05-04T23:22:00.000+08:00

My surprise cake from my peers

the overwhelming monstrous pizza.. almost as big as our table

secretly requested by Marvin to be delivered to me in the office

Should I be happy?

Hell Yes! I am on my way to working my ass off to achieve all my dreams. hang on tight everybody. :)

Thank you to all who remembered my day.. you know who you all are.

SALAMAT PO! :D

Resort World Manila

2010-05-01T14:52:00.000+08:00

Since last year, I've been hearing this hotel's name - not because of their luxurious and grand lodging services and not that I doubt that they can offer it; but because of the cheap buffet they offer. Today, my former team mates and I headed to Newport, Pasay to try and feast on their buffet services.

The 88++ peso buffet is offered in their 'Mercado' restaurant. You have to be a member before you can indulge and membership is free. If you want to avail, just bring a national ID (voter's, passport, postal, etc) and fill up their simple form. They'll take your picture and after a minute, viola! your ID is ready. Head to the restaurant and enjoy! We did! :)

Resort World Manila

http://rwmanila.com

Newport Boulevard, Newport City

Pasay City, Philippines

1309

+632 836 6318

I am in love

2010-04-27T23:41:00.000+08:00

with a chow chow, haha!

I'm not a dog lover - I'm actually scared of them. I can't count how many dogs we've had that didn't live long enough. Yes, they always die early. But when I saw this breed, I thought of having one.. this breed really looks cute to me.

I'm not getting any anytime soon. But I told my mama that if when we finally moved to a new place, this is what I want. My father then said, "wag na yan, mahal.. panabong na manok na lang" ha?? nakakaloka noh!?

hahahahahaha

P-R-O-M-O-T-E-D

2010-04-25T23:08:00.001+08:00

I didn't leap to a become a manager - not that I wouldn't have liked it :p .. still this is a blessing and a true one indeed.

More than anyone else, I have heard of this news early days of April. I wanted to try some other position new but they said I will have a promotion because of a year well done (2009) and so I didn't push through with whatever it was.

Though I didn't have the official results until the end of April, I was somehow relieved when the news was delivered.

Thanks to the raise and the promotion StarTek. Now I have to work hard again for a better year.

"Paano Ko Sasabihin?"

2010-04-20T14:20:00.000+08:00

I've seen this one time in Cinema One. I liked the trailer and thought it's a good movie to watch.

"Paano ko Sasabihin" is a Cinema One original, indie film starring Erich Gonzales and Enchong Dee.

The movie is an unpredictable light romantic comedy about two strangers who can "hear" the call of love by using their hearts. Enchong and Erich play the role of deaf-mute lovers in the film, where Enchong's character knows sign language since he teaches this in the school where he works while Erich's character knows how to sign language because of her deaf-mute brother. - blog

.. but what's new. I didn't see the movie. Bet it was something. I almost believed them when they were doing sign language during the teaser.

Holy Week 2010

2010-04-03T12:54:00.000+08:00

For the holy week this year, my family went to Calatagan Batangas for a summer treat.

My cousins sponsored yet another fulfilling summer escapade in the southern part of Batangas.

Calatagan is nearly 5 hours away from Manila. It is fairly accessible and one could use a public transport too. From Manila, you could choose a bus from Lawton, EDSA Pasay or Alabang going to Nasugbu. Get off at Lian, Batangas which is further north of Nasugbu. From Lian, wait for passing vans, buses or jeeps going to Calatagan.

But lucky us, we had an entire bus rented for this specific day. We were brought to and from Manila and Barrio Sta. Ana where Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort is.

They used the name stilts because the resorts' Beach Houses are built on concrete stilts on top of the sea. The place is big and clean. The shallow sea water is either green or blue.. very nice to swim in. Our beach house has sala, dining area, kitchen and a big bathroom. The rooms were air conditioned too except the attic room.

try to visit their WEBSITE for more information.

Thank you for the treat!

Previously...

2010-03-31T23:10:00.000+08:00

March was a hectic month for me, busy with work and with so many things.

Allow me to back track a little :)

Jas' Thanksgiving Party

2010-03-27T23:41:00.001+08:00

My former colleague in TeleTech graciously invited Marvin and I to her Thanksgiving Party. She passed the Nursing Board (as her second degree) successfully while working full time. The party was held in Shakey's Magallanes.

Official theme of the party is white and in lieu of gifts, we are to bring school supplies in a plastic envelope. The collected items will be brought to less able school in Camiguin. Jas has a big heart.. even extending her blessings to everyone else.

my former workmates in TTech

Me, Jas and Marvin

Thanks Jas for the invite!

Sunday Bowling

2010-03-21T23:15:00.000+08:00

I have not seen my good old 'besties' ever since I came back home. And so I contacted them and requested for a short get together. Unfortunately Mhe and Lucky were busy so Rina, Hazel and I enjoyed the bowling ourselves.

We had an impromptu lunch before hitting the bowling lanes which gave us the time to catch up, chat and for me to hand my 'pasalubongs'.

It's always great spending time with my true and cherished friends.

.. happy to bowl again! :)

Japan Sanitation

2010-03-01T10:43:00.000+08:00

Witnessing technology in Japan made me blog about what I am blogging here now.

but excuse me, before you read make sure you're not eating. thank you.

Japan has brought technology to ridiculous (in a good way) directions; even toilets now are considered hi-tech. I am thankful to be in Japan in situations like this.

So yes, after about 20 hours of travel, my body felt the need to dump.. and so I did, luckily and thankfully, in Japan.

The picture above is not an armrest but it is connected beside the toilet. It is an automatic-press bidet so you can wash after you did #2. It goes straight to wherever it needs to go so you'll feel clean after, and damn! it feels great. The STOP button is used so you can stop the water when you feel contented with the wash. The SHOWER is for a straight release of water, the BIDET is like a shower sort of self explanatory, while the FLUSHING SOUND .. i'll leave the thinking to you, but I have a theory though.

This toilet and technology is sooooooooo helpful.

But where in the hell is Philippines in this? I just hope we get to develop sanitized toilets too, kahit hindi na automatic and all that, just clean right? A more cleaner environment and proper sanitation - we don't really need to be hi-tech for that right?

Japan Airlines

2010-02-28T22:13:00.000+08:00

I love flying. In fact, I will always welcome free trips such as this. And so I've had the experience of taking few airlines - Philippine Airlines, Northwest, United Airlines and Japan Airlines. So far, I'm loving PAL and JAL.

I don't understand why peers I know hate PAL.. PAL is the most hygienic plane I've been to. I don't have to worry about toothbrush, paste and so forth, it's included in their complimentary package. Most carriers only offer the standard pillow, blanket, and headset for in-flight entertainment. Their lavatories are also equipped with soap, alcohol, lotion and cologne that smells good. Unlike the rest, they have soap, and that's about it. PAL international flight is OK. NWA and UAL are the worst for me.

JAL on the other hand is praise worthy. I can't believe UAL is selling their legroom area for nearly a hundred bucks. Geez. And when I got to JAL, their normal seats are freaking better than UALs coach and maybe their 'legroom' area too. UAL's was so tight and close.. unlike JAL. Also, Japan Airlines has a camera outside of their plane so everyone inside can actually see what the pilots are seeing.. like the runway, etc. The camera is active even few minutes after take off.. it's amazing to see lights and the airport from way above. Totally cool, and I liked it. JAL's is the cleanliest I've ever witnessed so far with good movie line up and the best personal entertainment. You have your own TV and remote. You can flip all through the channels and watch whatever you want. Unlike other airlines, you have to watch from their TV's mounted on the ceiling. JAL's snacks are not bad at all. Their crews speak English, Japanese and Tagalog.

I like them.. so much.

I can't wait to experience Cathay Pacific and maybe JAL business class? :D

Unconscious

2010-02-27T12:11:00.002+08:00

I have my memory intact for what we've gone through during our last 5 days in Illinois and it wasn't as 'easy' as packing your things... yes, I considered that easy more than the back to back certification we all had to pass.

Last week the most busiest days of our stay, thanks to the demo teach and staying up late to rehearse, make flip charts, and all that preparation - we get to sleep on the plane with no effort at all.

As I write this, our plane that will bring us to Manila has taken off 15 minutes ago - and yes am I wide awake. To successfully get to this leg of our trip, we all had to endure all the driving, sleepless nights and connecting flights.

Here are the highlights of our last week:

Monday and Tuesday were still bearable. I slept late thought because I washed my clothes.
Wednesday night, I slept 2 hours because I was rehearsing and coming up with my presentation
Thursday night, I slept for 3 hours because I was busy packing and re-packing my things
Friday morning - we are all work mode still
Our shift ended at 2PM then we had lunch. After lunch we ran some errands to get a few more necessary things. We then drove non-stop for 3hours to Renaissance Hotel in St. Louis Missouri where we stayed overnight. The overnight was spent re-packing and re-weighing. There was absolutely NO SLEEP involved. I thought I would snap and go crazy anytime. I was crying desperately for sleep, but there's just no time for so many things to do.
Finally, Saturday morning.. with our stuffed luggages, we all headed to take the first flight out of MO.
We took 1 hour and 30 minutes flight via UAL. From the moment I snapped my seatbelt on, I was dead asleep. Isn't it crazy that our group slept before the plane took off and woke up when everyone else was already standing ready to leave the plane? We slept the entire time - the flight attendant didn't even bother to wake us up to serve our snack. This is our first sign of exhaustion.
2nd plane ride of the day, from Chicago to Japan. Again, I didn't wait for the plane to take off, I passed out as soon as I had my seat belts intact and I know where the rest of my peers at. I missed the first snack on this ride. I opened my eyes but refused to eat. I was still exhausted. It didn't matter if I was snoring or sleeping with my mouth open, I don't care about the Malaysian guy sitting beside me. Lunch came and our row was next to be served. Ha! I woke up just in time. The rest of the hours were spent watching movies, chatting a little, meal times, and SLEEP.
Ah, finally. This moment.. Japan Airlines (JAL) that will bring us to Manila. I didn't sleep during the first hour. I wanted to witness (again) my favorite part of this ride - the take off. I was given two chances earlier but I just slept through it. And I love JAL. They have a camera outside of the plane so when we were still taxiing and taking off, we can see everything. The TV's inside are connected to the camera so we saw the runway, how it was during take off, it was soooo damn cool. After the first meal, I passed out again. I didn't even finish 'The Blind Side'.

I don't know how I survived, but I did.

So I welcome myself to Manila.. I am back Pinas! :D

our JAL flight to Manila

just as exhausting

In-Flight Entertainment

2010-02-23T22:29:00.000+08:00

Sometimes it's so unbelievable how fast technology has set us forward. I can't wait to see flying cars in the near future now that there are cars that can detect parking space, or even park itself automatically, cars that would suddenly stop if it recognizes a block or a near collision.. just unbelievable.

But I'm a simple person, if there's anything I like about the technology on board the aircrafts, it is the fact that you can choose your own movie/ channel and watch whatever you like. You can even play bejeweled and other pop cap games. I love it!

this is a remote that you pull out from your armrest. it looks like a phone to me.

flip the remote control and you'll see this. notice that it has channel & volume controls. it also has A, B, X buttons for those gaming addicts. So yes, you can play!

here's your own small TV that has 'glare' something so the person sitting next to you can't really see what you're watching unless they look at your monitor straightforward.

Gotta Love Flying!