Joy Filling My Heart

I was on my way home after having dinner with Karina when Ate Lovely sent me an SMS that Camille won 6th grade Representative! I helped her with her speech a few weeks ago, one Saturday evening. Pass ako sa gimik with JBs sa Makati nun to help out one of my favorite girls. And it just fills my heart with joy (hence the title of my blog entry) to know that she won! I feel like a proud parent! Haha! I remember when Yssa was named class valedictorian during her grade school graduation (of course, Ate Tenten was there). I think I almost cried. Haha. Aww... These girls. Such precious girls.

Yssa and Ina's birthdays are coming in the next few weeks and I'm pretty psyched! Both occasions bring the promise of yummy dishes, awesome company, and crazy pictures. I can't believe the girls are turning 13!


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Random Musings for Today...

Wow. What an awfully busy day today was. I think the only times I rose from my chair was during bathroom breaks. But it was worth it. We finally did some catch up with our testing. it felt good to actually be preoccupied with work. I think our leased line connection will do wonders for our productivity. Bye bye blogging! I did enjoy our coffee and cheese break today. Angelo was up to his usual antics. He was mimicking someone we all knew.

Pinoy Big Brother started last Sunday. The house looks amazing! Thanks to PSID and the long, growing list of sponsors. That guy from Iloilo's pretty funny. Most of us are speculating that he is gay. I somehow miss the first season cast. Well... I'm sure we will get to know the new bunch soon enough.

Mama and Papa are planning their trip to Canada and the US. I casually asked Yas if I could take a two week leave of absence this April. I wasn't entirely surprised at her reply that I couldn't. I knew it anyway, even before I asked. Hehe. Sayang... When I went home today, Mama and Papa were at the dinner table and we started talking about their itinerary. I can't help but feel excited on their behalf! When all the visa and flight bookings are finalized, we'll lay out their day-to-day schedule. Exciting!! Makes me want to open a travel agency! Haha!

Trips are always fun! And I like sending people off and helping them plan for their trip. I've been giving Yas Bangkok tips and I pushed my parents to go on their European tour a few years ago.

I do hope I get to go on my planned trips this year. So I better save, save, save!

Teacher for the day

So Mel called me this morning and asked me to facilitate the CSTE review class. Lazy me did bring the CBOK at home. Lazy me attempted to organize my closet but with no success. So it only follows that I was unable to open my CBOK at all. I always liked teaching. And mentoring. And coaching. Maybe I just like talking in general. Haha. Anyway, the review class was ok. I could've been better prepared. It was nice to hear the opinions and experiences of others. Deng. I dunno how I did as a facilitator though. I hope I didn't confuse anyone.

Today as ok. Not so great. Ended pretty nicely. Karina, Bibay, P.I., and I had dinner in Next door at the Ortigas Home Depot. It's always nice to laugh with friends. These not-planned dinners are the best. We're going to Fontana this weekend for a weekend of iPod updates, DVD marathons, and drinking. Bibay reassured me that I could drink all I want, and no one's going to throw me out. Warning to me friends... please keep my cellphone away from me if and when the time comes. Haha!

Oohh... I just remembered! When I first transfered to Ortigas, I met up with Paolo and Suzie to have lunch at North Park... Or was it just Paolo?? How time flies. It's been almost a year since I bid 6750 adieu. Met a lot of new people.

Okeh... time for bed.

[Movie Schmovie] The Number 23

The Number 23. In a nutshell... Paranoia. This movie deceives the viewer into thinking that it's just about paranoia. Virgina Madsen's character said it right that we are willing the number 23 to appear, which is why everything seems to equate to it. If you're looking for it, it will find you. Something like, "Seek and ye shall find." At the very end, when the truth was unveiled, I was like, "Ooookay.... Kinda thought for a moment there he had rabies." I didn't like the final turn out, I guess.Towards the middle, I was thinking to myself, "This movie is taking itself too seriously." It lacked that "buy in", convincing factor for the suspension of belief.

Jim Carrey was... Ok. He had that sarcastic humor going. And he was trying to be the brooding lead. Dramatically, I still like him best in "Eternal Sunshine on the Spotless Mind" (surprise, surprise).

There were scary, surprising moments. But in the end, all the paranoia seems ridiculous.

Steakhouse Lamon!

I was looking forward to dinner with the Cafppl, but only a few of us confirmed. So we moved our dinner to another weekend. And as the gimik gods would have it, Keysi, Rni, and I found ourselves talking on the phone and making plans!

Rni has never been to SM Mall of Asia (or SMoA), so we went there! We had dinner at the Tagaytay Highlands steakhouse. Wow. Carnivores we were that evening! We were all taken aback by the serving size. H.U.G.E. So guess who couldn't finish her steak? Haha! Me!

Rni ordered the Back Back ribs (must've been a full slab!)



Now what's a steak dinner without red rine? Their house red as a Cabarnet-Shiraz.




Keysi always finishes her food! Well... almost always! We ordered the same thing... 7 oz of English Prime Rib. Two gravy boats, one plate of corn kernels, and several steamed veggies later... viola!





OMG. The rootbeer we had that evening... I must say. The best rootbeer I've had ever! It was actually a tall glass of ice with rootbeer (just the way I like my drinks!). Rni said my facial expression while gulping down the rootbeer has earned me her for-commercial recommendation!



So here's me, enjoying the prime rib. Keysi has paved the way for me to enjoy it medium rare. Raaar! Check out my knife!



The evening was super fun! As are all evenings spent with Keysi and Rni! After our gluttinous sin, we saw "The Number 23" (which merits a separate blog entry) and then had coffee at Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf. We just reminisced and sang songs from our teenage and childhood days. Rni's parents always asked her to sing "Miss you Like Crazy", while Keysi as a kid liked singing, "Light and Shade". Hehe. Tama ba? We were enjoying ourselves too much (oblivious to everything else) that the guys from CBATL asked us to leave because we were the only customers left.

Ahh.... Good times!

Action Packed Friday

The universe was paying me back for the lousy day I had last Wednesday. Hehe! I think I was probably just having a bad day, hence the tearful drive home. Thursday was pizza day, and this Friday was action packed!

So I started the day with a huge backlog of emails to read and reply to. So many things going on. MTS Cinerama, Test data creation, system integration test management, CMMi deliverables... argh. I barely finished my cinnamon role (Hehe. Big surprise, di ko naubos food ko), but my tall Cafe Americano kept me going.

Lunch time, Sid, Mike, and I went to Shangri-La to have lunch at Penang Hill (I think that's what it's called). Mike, although was keeping mum about his opinion, didn't like his dining experience there before. Hehe. But I think Sid had his heart set on eating there (he wanted to eat there last week). We ordered the Bagoong Rice, Beef Rendang, and Prawns with Salted Egg. I liked the prawns! The Lasshi that we ordered though (this youghart drink)... I think I like the one in Bollywood better.

On our way back to the office, Paolo rang and told me he was in Cybergate. And so... lunch was extended to another hour! Haha! We ran into Arfel and the three of us just chatted till 3pm! So many Dow tsismis! I returned to my cubicle at 330 where I was in front of the computer until 9pm ('cept for that sidetrip to Starbucks)! Haha! Payback time.

Pesem and I left the office a little past 9. We met up with the ERP5 gang (Chae, Aida, Aileen, Mark, Rachelle) at Hard Rock Cafe where guess who was performing. Clue... Marchae.... Hahaha. Dead give away na yan na Side A.

Talk about up close and personal! We got really good pictures of the band. This one's my favorite though... (This is Levon)



It was kinda noisy, so we didn't do a lot of talking. A lot of picture taking though! Haha! Here's the gang. And the pic after that... I was sandwiched between two of the funniest people I know. I'm sorry pero ang ganda ng bagong camera ni Mark! SLR na sya! Haha!




Special guest that evening... Chae's 7 year old daughter, Nica!



I was hungry so I ordered these chicken fingers which I liked! It was sweet and spicy! Pesem and Mark didn't like 'em though. Hehe.



Side A fanatic Marchae with the late comers.




Before the middle of the show, Nica dozed off in Chae's arms. After the show, Joey B talked to Nica! I was telling Marchae to tell him, "Joey... 7 years ko nang tinatago sa yo 'to... Meet Nica Benin." Mwahaha!



Bitin ang kwentuhan! So we just goofed off while walking to the parking lot. A lot of screaming, a lot of shouting, some cursing, and a ton of laughter. Haha! Marchae, Aida, and Nica had to head home, so I offered to take Mark and Rachelle to Katipunan ( a long way from Paranaque), Pesem to Ortigas, and Aileen to her home along Roxas Blvd. We had coffee at Starbucks 6750. The car ride going to Katipunan was a riot! Mark knew how to spell (and sing) that super long word from Mary Poppins, Rachelle had the best hirits about our Bangkok experience, and Pesem was his wise cracking self. It was a kinda traffic in Katipunan, but we didn't mind! Gave us more time to talk, reminisce and make fun of each other.... Aww... I miss these guys. Iba talaga ang may pinagsamahan.



So from Makati, to Katipunan, to Ortigas, to Roxas Boulevard, to Sucat Paranaque. Si Schmenten and dakiling school bus. It was all worth it though! Sarap tumawa!

What a nice day this turned out to be! Aside from hanging out with my former teammates, I enjoyed my conversation with Paolo in Starbucks. He's brutally honest and he just lays it out! I'm amazed how he and Suzzy are super updated with my blog (Hi Paolo and Suzy!). Paolo has a lot of interesting insights. Like Paulo Coehlo says things I want to hear. I think talking to Paolo is therapy!

Had three cups of Starbucks coffee today! 1 Tall Cafe Americano (courtesy of Mama), 1 Iced Caramel Macchiato (courtesy of Paolo), and 1 Iced White Chocolate Mocha (courtesy of Mark). Tsalap!

Anyway, hope the weekend'll be as interesting and fun as today.

Thursday at Home...

There was something about yesterday that really got to me.

I found out that two of my former teammates turned in their resignation letters. I am super happy for them. For years now, we've been talking about moving on to bigger things outside the realm of ACN. And as of today, almost all my former teammates have taken that step. Ivan, Daisy, Aui, and Mackie have left for the US, Maila is with Kamiseta, Mark, Jozie, and Rachelle are in HP, Chae is in Kaisa, Rodel is in Singapore, Greg was with HP (I dunno where he is now), and in a month, the 2 As are officially new employees to their respective new companies. Left behind... Me, Sid, Amery, Gladys, and Zalggy.

I was talking to Karina, venting. She said, "I thought we were over this phase of yours." She was of course referring to my desire to leave work, resign, and call it quits. Karina was quite good at reminding of things we've already settled. Hehe.

I guess I'm just afraid of being left behind. I think I'm actually more afraid of being so complacent and comfortable with how my life is and not taking it to the next level. I emailed Irene and Sam about my musings for yesterday and they were both telling me to go for it. There is so much more out there. Known and unknown.

Change. I think that's what I want. I sometimes feel so many changes are happening in the lives of others. I'd like a piece of the action. I also realized last weekend that lately, the universe is pushing me to want this change. I should want it bad to make it work.

Haaaay.... So many thoughts. I was talking to Karina before I got in the car. I really felt like crying. It's strange because I just had that feeling in the pit of my stomach. I felt heavy. She was worried that i might not be able to drive home. I was really ok. On my way home, driving along C5, I waited for the tears to come. Funny because I somehow think I was experiencing tears constipation. Haha. I knew they wanted to come out, but I couldn't will them to. Nothing overly serious!! I was having one of 'em moments. And just this morning, "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" was on HBO, and the tears just came. Now I know why I love seeing those movies. They give me an excuse to work up the waterworks. Hehe.

Hence, the not feeling so great this Thursday. I stayed in. Saw "The Departed", had several slices of Shakey's Pizza, and slept. Good times bumming. I needed to rest and get away for a day.

Ok. I might be a nut case. Or my hormones have gone burserk. I knew however, while I was driving home, heavy feeling and all, that it was going to be ok. There have been worse things. And I know good things happen to good people. I am a good person, and it will happen to me soon. Maybe there are still a couple of things I need to do, which I can only do where I am and who I am right now.

[Survey Shmurvey] Random Stuff

Ok... so hanapin ang tamad at mahilig sumagot ng survey! T-e-n-t-e-n!

1. How tall are you barefoot?
- Not 5 feet. Hehe.

2. have you ever smoked heroin?
- Nope.

3. Do you own a gun?
- Nope.

4. Do you get nervous before "meeting the parents"?
- Sino bang hindi? Just like friends, their seal of approval somehow matters.

5. What do you think of hot dogs?
- I like 'em. Cheesedog's good. Corndog's better. Christina Ricci said a corndog's a hotdog inside a donut.

6. What's your favorite Christmas song?
- All I want For Christmas, the version in "Love Actually..."

7. What do you prefer to drink in the morning?
- Coffee.

8. Can you do push ups?
- Hahaha.

9. Is your bathroom clean?
- I would like to think that it is.

10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry?
- Hmm... Not really a big fan of jewelry.

11. Do you like painkillers?
- When I need 'em.

12. What is your secret weapon to lure someone you like?
- Hahaha! Dunno if it's worked. I'm pretty transparent. I guess being more attentive, doing that extra something.

13. Do you hate any of your exs?
- No. :) I don't have any exes.

14. Do you have a dog?
- Yessie. One black lab, Kitkat, and one askal, Cedie (named after the munting prinsipe).

15. Middle name?
- Tanquilut

16. Name 3 thoughts at this exact
moment?
- I'm stuffed from all the Shakey's pizza I had today
- I need to take a bath
- I'd like to listen to that Frou Frou song again

17. what's your normal bed time?
- Hmm...11:30 on a weekday. I've been trying to sleep earlier.

18. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink:
- Coffee
- Water
- Iced tea

19. What time did you wake up
today?
- 7:30 am

20. Current worry?
- Being left behind by everybody. So many people have moved on to bigger things. Haaay... This merits a separate blog entry.

21. Current hate?
- Negative thoughts. Digressing. Doubting myself.

22. Favorite place?
- The bed. Where the sheets are soft and the pillows invite the sandman

23. Least favorite place?
- Dark alleys.

24. Do you own slippers?
- Yessie... Pero kids sizes. Hehe.

25. What shirt are you wearing be specific?
- dark blue with icicles

26. Do you burn or tan?
- Tan, I think.

27. Favorite color(s)?
- Green, brown, purple, pink

28. would you be a pirate?
- Hehe. Why not? As long as Johnny Depp's the captain

29. Last time you kissed somebody?
- :)

30. What songs do you sing in the shower?
- Whatever's playing on the radio.

31. What did you fear was going to get you at night as a child?
- Halimaw sa banga!

32. What's in your pockets right now?
- Nothing

33. Last thing/person that made you laugh?
- Karina. When I was talking to her last night.

34. Best bed sheets you had as a child?
- Hmm... They were super soft with small blue flowers.

35. Worst injury you've ever had?
- I had an appendectomy when I was in fifth grade.

36. If you could cheat on your spouse, would you?
- Hell no. Bad yun.

37. Are your parents still together?
- Yes. 28 years and counting!

38. Who is your loudest friend?
- Syet... Marami sila.

39. Who is your most silent friend?
- Chae... But only when you meet her for the first time.

40. Does someone hate you?
- Hope not.

41. Do you wish on shooting stars?
- Haha. I did. Freshman year, college. I super remember the exact moment. Was standing outside the green gate of # 80 E.Abada. Never came true.

42. What is your favorite book?
- The Alchemist.

43. What is your favorite candy?
- Jelly beans!

44. What song do/did you want played at your wedding??
- "The Luckiest" by Ben Folds. I think I've said this before.

45. What song do you want played at your funeral?
- First song which comes to mind, "Blackbird" by the Beatles.

46. What were you doing 12am last night?
- In bed, watching Idol.

47. What is the first thing you think of when you wake up?
- Dengit. Another day of work. I just want to sleep some more...

Music and Lyrics Hangover: Pop! Goes My Heart

I think I still have a "Music and Lyrics" hangover. This is the first video I've ever put in my blog! How cool is that.

Anyway, my friends know I am an eighties freak. I love the Wedding Singer. All those brat pack movies. Some Kind of Wonderful. Pretty in Pink. All the Friends episodes where they'd flashback to the 80s. This video from the opening of "Music and Lyrics" was super champion! The Flock of Seagulls hair, the tacky clothes, the very cool dance steps.

[American Idol Season 6] Top 12 Guys Perform

The top 12 American Idol male contenders performed today. I missed the final selection show last week, but most of the boys who were selected are familiar faces. My favorite so far... Blake Lewis! Beatbox dude He seems super charming and well, song selection was spot on. I like Keane, and i'm still contemplating if i should purchase their CD. Anyway, Blake sang "Somewhere Only We Know", also used in "The Lake House" soundtrack. I went to www.americanidol.com and found he's a 25 year old dude from Seattle. His favorite male and female pop artists: Robbin Thicke, Jamaroqui, Maroon 5, Jason Mraz, U2, Gnarls Barkley, Half Past Forever, Michael Jackson, Prince, Sting, Eric Benet, Martin Sexton, Duncan Sheik, M-Pact, Bjork, Fiona Apple, Imogen Heap, Estmerd, Jill Scott, Tori Amos, Ella Fitzgerald, Sad. I love him already!

Then there's Chris Richardson who kinda resembles Justin Timberlake. He's cute. Ok. So there's no use denying that I (and Bibay) have a thing for these semi-kal guys. Perfect example: Derek Ramsey... Droool... Ok... Must. Stay. Focused. On. American. Idol.

Anyway, I'm with Simon about the guys tonight NOT being the best set of male vocalists. Last season was awesome, I think. They had a pretty good bunch. I do hope AJ Tabaldo stays on a little longer. He's half Filipino. Chris Sligh was kakaaliw. He's the guy who wants to make David Hasslehoff cry (what Taylor Hicks did during the finale). He's funny! Love a guy with a sense of humor.

The girls are performing tomorrow. I haven't seen majority of them perform. A couple of unknowns...

Oh well! Anyway, it was nice watching American Idol over dinner and dessert. I wolfed down one Pininig Crunch ice cream and felt guilty afterwards. Haha.

Dinner with Allan... Ahluvet!

My fabulous fabulous friend Allan and I met up last night at M Cafe to hang, chill, and exchange a year's worth of stories. Haha! So note to self... see more of old friends to keep the stories current and fresh!



The ambience was rather nice!



We were just laughing and laughing from the moment we saw each other. Allan just came from a small shopping spree at Glorietta where he bought really cool Celtics rubbershoes (He's on the basketball team! As the infamous Larry Bird! Haha!).




We both had two glasses of Cabernet Sauvignon, which pretty much fueled the animated conversations and were accountable for my slightly pink cheeks. There was a 23-year old marketing person who approached us to chit chat about beer, fashion, and perceptions. Oh yes. Why are we into fashion? We simply answered, "Uh... because it's pretty?" Haha!

Allan worships Gretchen Barreto. Pramis kahit naka-Penshoppe sya?!

I drove Allan home to Las Pinas. We passed by the interesting lights show Mike mentioned last week. From afar, the area seemed like a village of lights. Up close, the details of the structures were more beautiful. I also discovered that night how much faster it is to go to Las Pinas if you pass through Coastal. If you're passing through during odd hours, that is.

Random thoughts from last night and today...

Allan asked me an interesting question what would make me more certain of my plans for next year. Hehe. I think I just smiled. I don't know... or maybe I do. Hehe. Talking to someone about it makes things a little clearer.

Holidays and special occasions magnify how we feel by a hundredfold. Which explains why there's a certain sadness about Christmas, birthdays, Veeday... I guess it's because typically, special occasions are celebrated and spent with people who are special to you. Not to say that family and friends do not suffice. I think I've told my friends this a million times. My theory is that you're ok with being single... until you find someone who will make you think twice. Or when you're still hung up on someone and your heart simply aches when you think about them or what you've shared. Or when all your friends seem to be happily committed and it's a challenge to grasp the "why" you aren't in the same boat when you're as fabulous as them.

Okeh... My post-veeday thoughts are aplenty!

I can't believe next week it'll be March. Two months into 2007. Wow. No huge changes or life altering events. Although it's very true that such events happen when you least expect it.

I think I heard this phrase somewhere... "Live without expectations." Be surprised. Wait... I remember now. I think I read it in "By the River Piedra..." Paulo Coehlo is genius.

"You have to take risks. We will only understand the miracle of life fully when we allow the unexpected to happen."

I recall reading a line which went something like, the best moments of our lives are not written by us. So very very true. We simply realize as an after thought how wonderful that moment was.

Hanapin and Addict sa Kape

Ok. So that's me. And this is my third entry for the day! Haha! Its's 3:52 am and when Mama heard me come in an hour ago, she sleepily remarked, "3 o'clock ka na naman umuwi?" Of course, I tried to defend myself by saying, "Ha? 2:30 pa lang ah!"

The blogging juices are abundant tonight! Big thanks to the two cups of Cafe Americano which I had at Segafredo sometime around 11 P.M. Deng!!! I think Macky has converted me! I was telling him, "Grabe! Ang sarap ng Cafe Americano!". To which he wittily remarked, "Masarap talaga ang Americano."

Another sporadic gimik today. Macky and I saw "The Fountain" at 6:55. It was ok. Pretty heavy. Mentally. I'm still thinking if I should create a separate blog entry for it... Hmm...

Funny din pala today. While we were walking after the first movie we saw, the strap on my left sandal snapped. Not the first time this has happened! I recall back in Sydney, while we were making our way to that Hotel where we had dinner, my strappy sandals broke. Anyway, Macky and I went to T to look for shoes I can use as replacement. My small feet was swimming in the adult sizes. Finally found a pair of terry cloth flip flops (in pink and green). Size 3!! Haha! O.A. talaga.

Random thoughts for the day (aside from those I've already blogged about earlier)...

I saw "Sisterhood of the traveling pants" today. And I can't believe I cried. Haha! I can't believe I actually liked the movie. Every girl needs girlfriends. Talking is like therapy.

Keysi and I met up Friday night and each had a glass of red wine at Cyrano, a few doors down Bistro. I told her about my day and she told me hers. We both concluded that the universe owes us a break. Hehe. So many people we know have moved on to bigger things. We think our time is near. And yesterday when I was driving home, I sort of felt excited at the prospect of pursuing something different. I can't help but feel scared, too. Rni was saying that she was afraid of change. Perhaps I am, too. My life now has become so comfortable. I love the people I spend time with. I've been hearing so many people who have left the country say how difficult it is to be alone and lonely. I'm afraid of that I guess. But I know I should learn to take risks and just grow up.

Ok... so the caffeine high is slowly wearing off... And my stomach's grumbling. I ought to sleep this off before I head for the Fridge.

[Movie Schmovie] Music and Lyrics

First of all, this is entry is not intended to be an objective review of the movie. I have always been a Drew Barrymore fan. To date, I have seen "Music and Lyrics" twice. First time was Veeday and the second time was tonight, with Macky, Bibay, and Erik. Sooo did not mind seeing it again. Drew Barrymore is worth the P320 bucks I've spent in total supporting her film. Hehe.

The first time I saw the movie, I was like, "Yeah... it was good. Not an overly complicated plot, nor a major conflict in the film. Not their best. But they made it work." I love the eighties touch. Hugh Grant works his magic! He's great with anyone he's paired with! The songs were pretty good. The second time I saw the movie, I think I fell in love with it. Haha. "Way Back Into Love" is closely becoming my favorite song of the moment. I bought the soundtrack! The guy in Music One said there were two copies left and I had my hands on the second to the last one. Hehe.

I love Drew because she plays these characters who girls can easily relate to. It's like, there's a Drew Barrymore in each of us. Haha. I think she's an idealist. I like what she said about the melody being the first impression, physical attraction, while the lyrics is when you get to know the person, their story. And together, it's magic.

I especially liked the scene where they were having dinner with Sophie's sister and Alex (Hugh Grant's character) remarked about Drew making her "doggie look", and they just laughed together in unison. It was like they immediately understood each other. That was sweet.

Over dinner today, when Macky and I were waiting for Bibay and Erik, we talked about our insights on love. We wonder, why are there so many great guys who are unavailable? Married, in a relationship, committed.... I told him, "Maybe it's the universe telling us that they exist. That they're still out there." Macky then added, "It's the universe telling you, you ought to be with someone like him."

Ahhh... the universe. It reveals. It speaks to us through people we meet. We might not always like what's being told, but eventually, they all come together and make us understand why it is how it is. We meet people and get to know them. And they unknowingly change us. When we try to forget them, we then realize that we can't, because somehow they've become a part of who are, who we've become.

Ok... Movie review over! Haha!

My Veeday

Pesem is tired of hearing me say that I am neither cynical nor ecstatic this Veeday. Remains to be true. Even after the 14th has passed.

The day started with a hit-na-hit Fried Rice feast we had in our project. Nelson was able to convince me (with very little persuasion) to make fried rice for the peeps in our project. Props to Ate Henny and Melissa for concocting this yummy breakfast. I was about to go for my second serving, but unfortunately, the Pyrex was empty. Hit!

Had quite a few work related stuff to address. A lot of the MTS stuff. Now in PDF format, it looks like a professional magazine. Haha! Nice. It was a challenge to reword a couple of phrases and sentences. I was kinda glad I was editor part-time. It made me think about my dream of being a journalist before. I like writing. Editing is ok. It’s hard to edit a piece of work, while keeping to the author’s style and tone.

In the evening, I let the Valentine traffic pass before leaving the office. I then met up with Keysi and Rni. Traversed traffic-free EDSA, traffic-free Ayala, and finally traffic-free Makati Avenue. I was pleasantly surprised that the Greenbelt 3 parking building had a handful of free parking spaces. We had dinner at Fish and Co.





It was sort of a spur-of-the-moment. I had a small cynical moment though. There were two pillars of pink balloons in Fish and Co. It wasn't exactly tacky, but it was very Valentine's day. Haha. There were several couples on dates, girls who passed by proudly holding their bouquet of flowers, and quite a handful of groups of friends drinking the night away.

The following day, my family together with Lola and Tita Marison had dinner at Abe in Serendra. Abe's this new resto which serves Kapampangan food.



We enjoyed the Sinigang sa Bayabas, Lamb Adobo, and the Krispy Tadyang. I was disappointed that they didn't have the Kamaro (crickets). Our guess is that the Valentine crowd the day before prolly wiped them clean.




Oh yeah. Check out Tonton who seems like the happy boyfriend.



What a coincidence! We bumped into Auntie Kingkay, Uncle Mahong's wife. She flew in from Davao a few days before. She told us she was granted a US Visa! Congrats, Auntie!




We still had a bottle of Asti left over from Christmas. Perfect time for drinking! So I brought the bottle to the office (kept in the Fridge), and then brought it to Abe. They only charged us P300 for corkage, which ain't so bad. Here's Rommel and me, toasting to two of our favorite letters. Haha!



Overall, Veeday was pretty ok. Spent it with friends and family. Most memorable veeday remains to be the veeday of 9 years ago in Room 502. Twas when Maan and Jeff officially became a couple, when Joana tried her best to watch Dirty Dancing, when Irene pretended to be asleep, when I said "Not beside the La Germania", and when Jose Cuervo ruled Xavierville Royale. Haha! I think I might've written about this, but I don't recall where exactly.

Valentines past... There was that one time when Irene and I went to National Bookstore Katipunan and laughed our freshie asses off at the Tagalog greeting cards. We met up with Sam and Pancho at Angelino's for dinner. I recall having the Gnocchi Carbonara. Yum. Another veeday was when the JB barkada saw "The Hunks" in concert. Haha. My first car ever, Mama's green Toyota Corolla, broke down (just across that hotel near La Salle) and we were so praning about this other driver who was trying to help us. Veedays for the past two years I believe I spent with family. There was that one time when we had dinner at Prince of Jaipur, and that other time we ate at Zen (and Tonton was totally late).

My thoughts about the season? I think it kinda has that effect on people. Those in relationships tend to be sweeter, I guess? Some feel obliged to do something extra special. Those not in relationships... I think you either feel cynical or indifferent. Cynical are those who have been hurt before or have tried their luck with love but didn't get favorable results. Indifferent are those who perceive the 14th of be an ordinary day or those who have other things preoccupying their mind (like work or some non-love related problem).

I'm just glad the 14th is over. It puts the mind and the heart in hyperdrive. Just like Christmas, it would do good to surround yourself with people who you know love you no matter what.

Way Back Into Love

Huge, huge thanks to Gwen's blog for the lyrics!! I tried googling the song yesterday but I couldn't find it.

Way Back into Love
from the movie: Music and Lyrics (Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore)

I've been living with a shadow overhead
I've been sleeping with a cloud above my bed
I've been lonely for so long
Trapped in the past, I just can't seem to move on

I've been hiding all my hopes and dreams away
Just in case I ever need em again someday
I've been setting aside time
To clear a little space in the corners of my mind

All I want to do is find a way back into love
I can't make it through without a way back into love Oh oh oh

I've been watching but the stars refuse to shine
I've been searching but I just don't see the signs
I know that it's out there
There's got to be something for my soul somewhere

I've been looking for someone to shed some light
Not just somebody just to get me throught the night
I could use some direction
And I'm open to your suggestions

All I want to do is find a way back into love
I can't make it through without a way back into love
And if I open my heart again
I guess I'm hoping you'll be there for me in the end

There are moments when I don't know if it's real
Or if anybody feels the way I feel
I need inspiration
Not just another negotiation

All I want to do is find a way back into love
I can't make it through without a way back into love
And if I open my heart to you
I'm hoping you'll show me what to do
And if you help me to start again
You know that I'll be there for you in the end

I really, really like this song. Especially the last two verses. Haaay.... no more negotiations please

[Survey Schmurvey!] Tres

Tres
My turn to make nenok!

THREE NAMES THAT FRIENDS CALL YOU:
Ten
Tenten (Okeh... ang full name ko talaga ay Tententen)
Schmenten/Schments

THREE THINGS YOU'VE DONE IN THE LAST 33 MINUTES:
Ask someone about a SIR I'll be testing
Listen to Frou Frou on my iTunes
Tease Nelson about the flowers his wife sent him... and tease Melvin about his best friends

THREE Places YOU'VE BEEN TO EXCEPT THE HOUSE:
Starbucks Cybergate Tower II
Shangri-La Mall
Serendra

THREE LAST THINGS YOU'VE BOUGHT FOR YOURSELF:
Dulce de Leche Ice Cream (1/2 Gallon! Haha! Pang Veeday!)
Hot Oil Treatment at Salon One, BF Paranaque
Magnolia Rainbow Ice Cream (Hmm... hanapin ang mahilig sa ice cream...)

THREE THINGS YOU'RE AFRAID OF:
Indecision
Animals and insects
Being left behind

THREE THINGS YOU ARE WEARING:
Pink Striped long sleeved Lacoste top (one of my faves)
Black Slacks I got on sale
Tall Enzo A shoes which I've had for three years!

THREE IMPORTANT THINGS IN MY LIFE:
God
Family
Friends

THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE BANDS:
(Three lang?!)
Coldplay
The Killers
The Police

THREE WAYS TO BE HAPPY:
Eating delicious food (with a glass of fine, fine wine)
Spending time and laughing to your heart's content with your loved ones
Appreciating what you have

THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE SONGS AT PRESENT:
Suddenly I See You by KT Tunstall
Better by Regina Spektor
Digital Love by Daft Punk

THREE PHYSICAL THINGS YOU LIKE IN THE OPPOSITE SEX: Updated!
Teeth - Nice teeth please!
Eyes - Expressive sana and will light up when he sees me or when we talk. Naks.
Lips - (like sugar... sugar kisses! Haha!) Would like thin lips. Haha! Parang kay Diego Luna or Ewan McGregor

THREE THINGS YOU JUST CAN'T DO:
Whistle
Program! Haha!
Keep a rigid exercise program

THREE THINGS YOU MISS FROM YOUR PAST:
Brighther, more exciting Christmases
College Life! Everything about college was close to perfect.
The lighter me!

THREE GIFTS YOU WOULD LIKE TO RECEIVE:
Flowers
Kikay earrings
A new cellphone (mine sucks)

THREE OF YOUR FAVOURITE HOBBIES:
Blogging
Organizing events
Is shopping a hobby?

THREE CAREERS YOU'RE CONSIDERING:
Professional, Full-Time Events and Wedding Planner
Journalist/Writer
Restauranteur/Chef
(O diba?! Related ba to IT or what?!)

THREE PLACES YOU WANT TO GO FOR HOLIDAY:
Any beach where there's a hammock and not a lot of tourists
Rome... mala Roman Holiday.
Prague... mala Last Holiday.

THREE CARTOON CHARACTERS:
Jem (of Jem and the Holograms)
Dory (of Finding Nemo)
Kronk (of The Emperor's New Groove)

THREE BOY'S NAMES:
Miguel <-- My favorite!
Enrique
Diego

THREE GIRL'S NAMES:
Sophia
Isabelle
Camryn

THREE THINGS YOU WANT TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE: (Hmmm gaya gaya ako!)
Backpack through Western and Eastern Europe
Pursue further studies
Be a temporary resident somewhere outside the P.I.

This survey was nenoked from Mike's blog, which today, most certainly made me smile! He posted a picture which was taken eons ago. He looked so different back then. Funny lang. Hehe.

I am currently discovering John Legend and his musical talent. I'm no big fan of R&B, and I'm not sure if his music falls under that category. Musicians who can play the piano while doing their pop/alternative/r&b thing rocks. Hehe.

I am also rediscovering Frou Frou, also known as Imogen Heap! I have four of her songs on my iTunes ("Breathe In", "Let Go", "Must Be Dreaming", and "Hear Me Out"). Hmm.. need to plan a trip to the music store. On my wish list as well is the soundtrack of "The Devil Wears Prada".

Angelo has loaned me his CDs! So many Everything But The Girl CDs! And he has a lot of Sting's not so popular singles. I've been listening to "Windmills on my Mind" today. Classic!

Gosh... never really realized how big of a music fan I am (until recently). Music has proven to be such a great companion in times of sadness and happiness. I remember a few years ago when I was trying to shut-out a lot of negative thoughts about someone. I had The Killers' Hot Fuss on my playlist for more than a month. Todo volume! "Mr. Brightside" sounds sooo much better when you're trying to distract yourself. It's such an angry song. Haha.

Right now, I'm listening to John Mayer. I read in Tere's blog that she adores him. He's awesome at what he does (compose and perform). Some of his songs (Like "Split Screen Sadness"), I didn't realize had so much meaning. Continuum, his latest album, does grow on you.

Wow! A survey which gave way to more blabbing. Hehe.

Love Songs of My Life...

Love Songs of My Life...

(I'm on a roll! Third blog of the day. It's still lunch break anyway!)

Since Veeday is tomorrow and God knows how much I love music, here's a list of memorable (love) songs for me...

Glory of Love by Peter Cetera
"I am the man who will fight for your honor."

Ahh... Karate Kid II. I think I was super infatuated with Ralph Macchio. I was in second grade, I think, I had butterflies in my stomach.

Every Breath You Take - by The Police
"Every Break you take, every move you make, every bond you break, every step you take, I'll be watching you."

Talk about an obsession. Sixth grade. Tall, lanky neighbor who played hoops just outside our house. First major crush of my teen years. First time I discovered the magic of Sting and The Police's music. I remember Kuya Beng putting the Synchronicity album on the record player. And I also remember all the stupid stuff I did to be noticed by thie Reggie Miller look-alike. Ewww... Glad that's over.

Weak by SWV
"I can't figure out just what to do, when the cause and cure is you."

Second year high school. Our Grammar teacher was the newest flavor of the faculty. He was smart, kinda mayabang, and an Atenean. I think I studied extra hard! Haha! I think every Scholastican can relate this song to him.

Afterall by Cher and Peter Cetera
"Well here we are again. I guess it must be fate."

Theme from Robert Downey Jr. classic, "Chances Are". And I think aptly, the theme to my senior year in high school infatuation. I had christened him Theodore and made it known to my entire Features staff. Haha. Again, there I was, in love with the idea of being with someone you've known for a really long time, and then rediscovering each other again. In retrospect, I didn't know him very well either.

Sad to Belong by England Dan and John Ford Coley
"That it's sad to belong to someone else when the right one comes along"

Yaaaak... I just remembered this song. And how I wish I could forget it. Stupid is as stupid does. Blinded freshie, daks was me.

Breakdown by Mariah Carey
"Well, I guess I'm trying to be nonchalant about it, and I'm going to extremes
to prove I'm fine without you, but in reality I'm slowly losing my mind
underneath the disguise of a smile. Gradually, I'm dying inside. Friends ask me
how I feel, and I lie convincingly, 'cause I don't want to reveal the fact that
I'm suffering, so I wear my disguise 'til I go home at night, and turn down all
the lights, and then I break down and cry."

Third year college. Toughest year (in my college personal life). A what if that turned into a could have been. One of the many episodes of Schmenten's life where she is mayor of the friends zone. Haha. You breakdown, but then you get up and keep on moving. Life lessons about letting go and being happy for the one you care for.

Every Now And Then by Earth Wind and Fire
"Morning's the hardest time, I wake up dreaming 'bout you and I... Evenings are painful still."
"Every now and then, I find myself wondering about you baby
It seems now and again, I can't escape the thought of all that might have been.
Every now and then."

Still third year college. There was some inner peace, knowing that he was happy. It was difficult at times to see them together. And it took a while before I got close to anyone again. There were times of course when you look back at all the wonderful things and just wonder.

The Space Between by the Dave Matthews Band
"You cannot quit me so quickly. There's no hope in you for me. No corner you can squeeze me. But I got all the time for you, love."

Haha. A small flirtation. What I got out of that experience? The beginning of my liking for alternative music. And the wisdom to steer clear of extremely friendly boys with girlfriends.

Out of Reach by Gabrielle
"Out of reach, so far
I never had your heart
Out of reach, couldn't see
We were never meant to be
Catch myself from despair
I could drown if I stay here
Keeping busy every day
I know I will be OK"

Talk about delusion. Or my imagine gone haywire. It's funny how you sometimes think there could be something, when there really isn't anything. In retrospect, it was probably the idea of him. I didn't really know him very well. From "Bridget Jones' Diary". A memorable movie for the books.

Oo by Up Dharma Down
"Malas mo, ikaw ang natipuhan ko."

Love, love this song! We saw them perform at Saguijo and Irene was perplexed if they were singing in Tagalog or some foreign language. Di mo lang alam... Haha. Knowledge is power. Life lessons about what's being said when nothing is said or done.The song's pretty sad.

Warning Sign by Coldplay
"I've gotta tell you in my loudest tones,
That I started looking for a warning sign.
When the truth is,
I miss you."

...I miss you sooo bad. Haha! I haven't missed anyone or anything that way in a really long time. It feels nice. Sometimes a little heartaching. Hehe.

I'll be Okay by Amanda Marshall
"Fate has a way of changing; just when you don't want it to
Throw away the chains; Let love find a way
Till love comes again, I'll be OK!"

Oh yeah. No other way but up. I should have my pHD! Haha! Sadness passes. It does! Jozie was amazed at how hopeful I am. I guess I still have faith in the universe. Time and time again, it reveals why something didn't work out. And what's next is always better.

Love Song for No One by John Mayer
"Searching all my days just to find you
I'm not sure who I'm looking for
I'll know it
When I see you"

Brighter than Sunshine by Aqualung
"I never saw it happening
I'd given up and given in
I just couldn't take the hurt again
What a feeling
I didn't have the strength to fight
suddenly you seemed so right
Me and you
What a feeling"

It would be nice to end this entry on a positive note. I love both songs. Maybe these are songs I'll be singing someday.

Happy Veeday!

What's in a name?

What Christine Means

C is for Charismatic H is for Honest R is for Radiant I is for Insane S is for Silky T is for Tempting I is for Innocent N is for Neat E is for Enthusiastic

What Does Your Name Mean?

Naaaaks... Pretty close. Especially "Insane", "Enthusiastic", and... "Charismatic"? Mwahaha.

Dinner and Drinks with Grozie

Chae called me yesterday and asked that I speak with Jozie. And so I called her and we agreed to meet up for dinner and drinks at the Shangrila Mall. I haven't seen this girl for over a year, and I'm wondering if she still remembers me. Haha. Again, I continue to be amazed at how friends, with kindered spirits, still have that connection despite not being together or seeing each other in a really long time. We ate at that new Greek resto (where we saw Ryan Cayabyab), and we later had two... or three... or four... rounds of drinks at Krocodile Grille.

Grabe! We met up at 730pm and parted ways...close to 11pm! And at some point, when we were sharing anecdotes and thoughts about life and love, I noticed our voices had gotten a tad bit louder. Haha. Blame it on the P68/glass of red wine. Champion.

I ought to meet up with this girl more often. :) She's still as funny (and brutally honest) as hell, and she really stimulates me (naks!). To think about stuff. She and I are fellow lovers of Philo and Theo (ergo, we were both nerds back in college).

This picture was taken two years ago I think. All Jozie, Suzie, and Maila (all very dear, dear friends), have left Accenture. Haaay... Dow days. They were fun and I made a ton of great friends.



Haaay... Oh well.. Back to work.

Lazy Part II

Haha... The weekend's winding down and what did I do with the 48 hours? Hmm... I slept most of today... Ate a lot of popcorn, went to the parlor (finally) for a hot oil treatment and my eye brows groomed, and uploaded a few family photos. Not so shabby. But overall, pretty lazy.

Karina, Irving and I met yesterday. The two love birds (who will be celebrating their first year anniversary in a few days!) had dinner at Red Kimono and we had dessert in Serendra. Karina and I later transfered to Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf. Nabitin kami sa kwentuhan so I decided to just hitch a ride with Rommel so I could stay with Kars a tad bit longer. I wonder why girls never tire of chit chatting. Hehe.

A few random thoughts...

Happy 9th Anniversary Poopoot and Potpot! Hehe! To one of my favorite couples ever, Maan and Jeff! Wow! You guys are really something. I sooo remember that fateful night when I sat beside the "La Germania", when Joana tried her very best to watch "Dirty Dancing", when Irene pretended to be asleep, and when Jose Cuervo ruled room 502. I can't believe it's been nine years. What a ride. I miss you guys! And I hope you're celebrating in style!

I just saw the teaser/trailer of Ocean's 13! Al Pacino's in it, and it seems Andy Garcia and George Clooney are pals. Haha. Should be interesting. I hope this third movie will be better than the second. That one kinda sucked.

I'm on page 62 of "On the River Piedra..." So far, i think the girl in the book is trying to rationalize the guy's feelings. The guy... hehe... Seems a little weird to me. Oh well. I'm just going to continue reading. And hope I don't fall asleep.

i just remembered one funny anecdote from last Friday. Mike and I had a late lunch at TOSH, and the waiter was taking our order. We usually share our food, and I was doing the ordering. "Um, isang order ng buffalo wings, fried calamari, and penne *something*" The waiter was nodding his head and taking down notes. Then he said, "Eh sa inyo sir?", looking expectantly at Mike. Hello?! Kala ng waiter ako lang ang lalamon ng tatlong orders?! Kaloka.

Drew Barrymore was a guest at The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. I saw the episode today, and she is soooo adorable! Jocey Grozie rules! She's so perky. I can't wait to see Music and Lyrics this week.

Hmm... Valentine week. Happy hearts day peeps!

Lazy

Ok. So for today, I unfortunately, was not able to disprove my lazy self. I got up at 10am. I was hoping for longer sleeping hours in the morning (I got home a little past 3). What did my lazy a** do from 10am till 6:35pm (current time on my laptop)? Deng. Have lunch, watch Freaky Friday (which I've seen one too many times), nap, eat siomai, eat chocolates, and contemplate on what to do tonight. Karina and I might meet up for dessert. I soooo miss her living in Paranaque :(.

I've been listening to Regina Spektor's CD a lot lately. And I've been spreading the Spektor love! I asked Pesem and Angelo to rip "Begin to Hope". They both like it! She has a lot of interesting songs!

Hotel Song:
"I have dreams of Orca whales and owls but I wake up in fear
You will never be my
You will never be my fool"

Better:
"If I kiss you where it's sore
If I kiss you where it's sore
Will you feel better?
Better?
Better?
Will you feel anything at all?"

Friday Again

Oh yeah! Hello Friday!

Blogger is weird again today. The "Upload Photo" button is missing. I have yet to upload the pics from Tito Ned's beeday party last Wednesday.

I've been fairly busy with work. Fairly. Hehe. But I do anticipate an upsurge of the work load in the coming weeks. We have a release scheduled this April and it looks like the testing effort'll be huge. I know my can do it. It's a matter of timing I guess.

Yesterday, I exchanged Ipods with Tammy. A lot of MYMP (next, next, next, next) and Nina (next). I did enjoy listening to "Do You Believe in Me" (the national anthem of our college days) and "Especially For You" (the ultimate JB butch song, 'Together! Together!' with our arms linked). I miss Karina and Maan. :(

The family (sans Rommel) went to Serendra yesterday. I wanted to show my folks around (and buy donuts of course). We made reservations at Abe for next Thursday. Alas... a post-Valentine dinner with the family. I asked Mama to invite Lola and Tita Marison. Should be fun. Crickets and frogs on the menu list!

Weekend's here! I predict laziness over the weekend... But I do wish I prove myself wrong. A couple of things I sort of need to do. Not really super urgent. Like cleaning out my closet (sounds like an Eminem song), visting the dentist, getting my eyebrows shaped (looong overdue), maybe cooking something for the peeps.

I didn't get to watch American Idol yesterday. Pooo... But next week's Hollywood week, so that should be good.

Last Wednesday, we went to Tita Baby's house in Almanza to celebrate Tito Ned's beeday. Tito Frank brought his guitar and made it an evening of jamming! Haha! Most of them were amazed at how well I knew the Beatles' songs. I think it's years and years of riding with Papa. He's a music lover and we had no choice but to listen to hits of the 50s and 60s. Anyway, I sang about 3 songs. Felt like I was in a small acoustic group! Haha! Oh well. There's probably an American Idol in every one of us.

[Movie Schmovie] Ze Holiday

Last night, I was fortunate enough to be the recipient of free movie premiere tickets of "The Holiday". Huge huge thanks to Karina, Tita Lydia, and Tita Olen! We missed the first fifteen minutes of the movie, so it was a good thing I'm pretty updated with the trailers, so I knew the general premise. So did I like it?? It was good. I think the roles fit each of the actors like a glove (prolly because the parts were written with them in mind, so I heard somewhere). Cameron Diaz was hilarious. Jude Law was a dream boat. Jack Black was funny. And of course, Kate Winslet was Kate Winslet (ergo, brilliant. Haha!) Love, love her. I think I like "Something's Got to Give" better (also from Nancy Meyers). Kate Winslet's character did have a couple of great lines. Insightful. Lemme see if I can find 'em.

Now, about Mr. Law (Graham in the movie). Del from RX said that this might be his sexiest role ever. Hehe. I'm close to agreeing. So his character, Graham, is the token, good-looking guy. He's suave. He's sensitive. Eye candy. He's smart. And he can most certainly carry a conversation, make your knees weak with that piercing look. In a nutshell, he's probably that hearthrob from school who girls swoon over. Seemingly perfect.

Then there's Jack Black (Miles in the movie). He makes you laugh, he keeps everything interesting. He listens to you intently. And when he's into someone, he's really in it for the entire ride. Comparatively, he's like your guy best friend who comforts you and makes everything seem better.

So what do girls want? Both I guess! Haha! I think Graham's character is too close to perfect. Miles' character is kinda more real.

I wish the movie ended better though. It was pretty predictable. I could see Ina and Camille in the two girls, Olivia and Sophia.

Ooohh... found those nice lines:

Iris: Because you're hoping you're wrong. And every time she does something that tells you she's no good, you ignore it. And every time she comes through and suprises you, she wins you over, and you lose that argument with yourself, that she's not for you.
Miles: Exactly, and on top of that there's the old standby, I can't believe a girl like that would actually be with a guy like me.

Iris: It doesn't matter how many new haircuts you get, or gyms you join, or how many glasses of chardonnay you drink with your girlfriends... you still go to bed every night going over every detail and wonder what you did wrong or how you could have misunderstood. and how in the hell for that brief moment you could think that you were that happy. And sometimes you can even convince yourself that he'll see the light and show up at your door. And after all that, however long all that may be, you'll go somewhere new. and you'll meet people who make you feel worthwhile again. And little peices of your soul will finally come back. And all that fuzzy stuff, those years of your life that you wasted, that will eventually begin to fade.

Next on my movie list... Music and Lyrics!

[Survey Schmurvey!] Random Questions

Pesem has been mocking me for answering these surveys AND posting them on my blog. But what the hey? I'm kinda bored and I like answering these surveys.

1) Something that I recently changed was:
- had renewed na lang... my driver's license.

2) Never in my life have i sucked at:
- eating!

3) When I'm nervous:
- my palms become super sweaty. I talk a little faster than usual.

4) The last time I cried was:
- last Saturday, while watching Charlotte's Web. Charlotte was so very wise.

5) If I were to get married right now my groomsmen/bridesmaids would be:
- Bridesmaids lang muna... Yssa, Ina, and Camille

6) Next year I will be:
- Sure of what I want to do with my life

7) My hair is:
- parang daw walis tambo! in need of a hot oil treatment!

8) When I was four I was:
- Iyakin and galit ang mga bangs!

9) Last Christmas:
- I was in and out of gatherings. Rockin' good time with family and friends (old and new)

10) I'm listening to:
- Regina Spektor's "Better", "If I kiss you where you're sore would you feel better?"

11) I should be:
- Working on my CMMi deliverables. Haha!

12) When I look down, I see:
- the buttons on my white long sleeved top.

13) The most fun recent event was:
- Jason and Cathy's Wedding! CafPpl reunion of sorts

14) If I were an insect, what would you be?
- a lady bug!

15) You spend a lot of time... ?
- blogging. procrastinating!

16) What's your biggest personality flaw:
- I tend to pry too much. Haha!

17) I have a hard time understanding:
- why a lot of fabulous girls are still single.

18) One time at a family gathering:
- we played "make your most interesting pig". Tito Ferdie won over Renren, Gibo, and Tonton.

19) You know I love:
- my family.

20) If I won an award, the first people/person I would tell would be:
- my parents. Haha. My Dad siguro first and foremost.

21) Take my advice:
- Steady lamig!

22) My ideal breakfast:
- Waffles/French Toast, Bacon, scrambled eggs (na mejo basa pa!), a cup of brewed coffee... tapos along Pitt street, on an early morning.

23) If you visited the place where I grew up:
- You'd see a huge makopa tree and a duplex.

24) I want to visit:
- europe

25.) If you were to stay at my house you better:
- be ready to pig out. Puno ang ref most of the time. We just love to laze around and eat.

26) I bet you didn't know:
- that I once stunned a lot of my P.E. classmates when I spiked the volleyball.

27) The world could not do without:
- God and love.

28) I'd rather lick the belly of a cockroach than:
- Ewww.... I'm scared of insects (and animals) in general.

29) The last thing I bought myself was:
- Super nice planner from Powerbooks!!

30) The last thing someone bought for me was:
- My office food supplies (courtesy of Mama)

31) Things/people I could not live without are?
THINGS: water
PEOPLE: my family and the JB barkada

32) My favorite color is
- Green!

33) The best CD I own is:
- The Killers, Hot Fuss

34) An animal I would like to see fly is:
- a Hippo

36) Once, at a bar:
- i threw up... and the rest is history

37) Last night I:
- had a pinipig crunch bar and saw Ian Veneracion on Deal or No Deal (hotness! Crush ko sya since 'Di Bale Na Lang' days pa!)

38) There's this girl I know who:
- has made it big in NBC and she's just 26! Amazing girl. Her name's Sam.

39) How I feel about toilet paper is:
- a must have when nature calls

40) A better name for me would be:
- Sophia. I always liked that name. It means love of knowledge. Naks.

41) If I ever go back to school I will:
- enroll in UP. Champion dun

42) Me + Alcohol =..
- english, english, and suka. Hahaha.

43) What I really want for my birthday:
- Clarity.

44) I'm wearing:
- long sleeved, white button down blouse, brown pants, and a pair of brown shoes with pink accent.

45) Tomorrow I am:
- going to focus on work more? Haha.

46) My friends are:
- Irreplaceable. To the left to the left...

47) I really wish:
- to find what I've been looking and waiting for.

Friends and old friends

Last Friday's wedding was super fun. The first in our college barkada. I can't believe it's been almost eleven years since we all first met as MIS freshies. I was absolutely clueless how techie my course was, but I knew for sure how much I was going to enjoy college. Orsem pa lang! Haha!

CafPpl! I miss our trips to Enchanted Kingdom, dinners at Don Henrico's, lunches at the Cervini Caf, Lloyd's Polo na car (bawal kapag Thursdays), Buddy's white Civic, hanging out at Fara's house where the food seemed to be limitless, Chrissie's infectious laugh, Mitch's rants and raves, Lery's veggie sandwiches, hanging out at Gate 3 with Tere (spotting all the cute guys walking home or playing softball), YBs with Cathi, Sid's Kermit the Frog shirt, Jason's big smile... Syet! Nakakamiss!! Meron pa ba akong namiss out? Haha!

Tere remarked how none of us have changed. Although Mitch and I were dubious about her tone (hehe), I took it to mean something positive. It's been seven years since we graduated from college. We don't get to see each other as often as we used to, we've all had several jobs, met new people, achieved so many things... And yet, when we do see each other, we're all the same old goofballs. Maybe that's the magic of friendship (insert Raymond Lauchengco's 'Farewell' here). Ang galeng lang to have friends like that. I think San Miguel was really onto something with their, "Iba ang may pinagsamahan" catch phrase.

I will try to find an old Cafppl picture... way back when birkenstocks worn with printed socks were cool.

Okie... moving on to more recent friends... Rni, Keysi, and I went to see Charlotte's Web last Saturday. It was a really nice movie. Dakota Fanning was adorable. I just love children's books. There is wisdom in them. Simple and universal. I'm glad I had that grande Iced Caramel Macchiato from Starbucks. It kept me alert and attentive. Anyway, Charlotte's web was also about friendship. Heart warming lang. Parang I want a pet pig.

Regina Spektor

I was going around Alabang Town Center last Saturday when I saw Regina Spektor's CD in Tower Records. I listened to the first four tracks and then I was well on my way to the cashier!



I'm pretty happy with my purchase! A couple of great tracks! "Fidelity", "Better", "On the Radio", "Hotel Song"... She reminds me of Sarah M. a lot. I have "Hotel Song" in the background now. "I have dreams of Orca whales and owls." Super catchy melody and interesting lyrics.

Jason and Cathy's Wedding

Wow... the first CafPpl wedding... and I hope certainly NOT the last! Haha! We all had a fantabulous, rockin' good time at Jason and Cathy's wedding. Jason's Dad was the sweetest, rendering three or four songs.

In the cocktails area, there were three activity booths where the guests can strike a pose, gauge how well they know the families of the bride and the groom, and try on Cathy's shoes. Benta ang booth ni Buds (Photo Me). Here are the 20 somethings goofing around.




None of us were camera shy... in fact none of us were shy at all. We had other peeps in our table, but I think we were still pretty noisy. Haha! Tere said, "Grabe. Di pa rin tayo nagbabago." Dunno if that's a good thing or a bad thing. Haha! I miss being Booboo bear. Yogi bear, of course, had a very pretty co-bear with him that evening! Cathy and Jason were all smiles!










In the spirit of the telenovelas, Cathi, Tere, and I took a stab at posing mala-Familia Zaragoza. Tere couldn't contain her laughter! Kitam serious kami ni Cathi!




Robert Blancaflor, Jason's second cousin, styled the WackWack Pavilion for the occasion. Flowers were lovely.



Congratulations Jason and Cathy! We wish you well! Babies!!!